WATERSIDE WEDNESDAY: BEACHY BEDROOMS

When decorating a coastal bedroom some otherwise "perfect" couples suddenly find they are incompatible. Photographer Dan Mayers and I first discovered this surprising fact several years ago when were photographing a waterside home for a magazine.

The house had 3 guest bedrooms. The wife suggested we shoot Bedrooms #1 and #2 because "they were the serene and pretty ones." The husband disagreed strongly and lobbied us to shoot Bedroom #3 instead.

Dan and I went out to the car to get a light stand and discuss the situation. He agreed with the wife. I agreed with the husband. In the name of harmony we shot all three. Disclaimer: none appear in this post. However, all of the photos were shot by Dan.

The bedrooms below were photographed at several different houses. Under each one I've jotted a few reasons Dan or I think the decor works for a waterside bedroom. I'd love to hear what you think. Which is your favorite? Why?


Bedroom One: The Coffey's coastal bedroom is fun and casual. The soft blue and white color scheme, nautical striped pillows, beachy artwork, and sand pail hanging from the ceiling fixture keep things bright and breezy.

Bedroom Two: Jeff West's coastal bedroom is more than just a place to sleep. Here, a pair of oars, an oval fish rug, and jute wrapped ship's jugs make the room a place to daydream of sun and surf on a rainy day.


Bedroom Three: More than any other room in your home, a beachy bedroom depends on your personal vision of bliss. With a view of the dunes, the Kinghams' chose a limited neutral color palette and spare beauty in harmony with the surroundings.

Bedroom Four: Cottage decors win points for doing more with less. You don't need an expensive antique bed or glamorous headboard. Claudia Martin used yards of tulle and a tropical pastel palette to create a budget-wise island fantasy.

Bedroom Five: Vacation cottages are often decorated over a period of years by different family members. To get that look, Missy Asen's opted for nostalgic style window toppers, a cozy quilt, and painted pieces shown off against a backdrop of pickled tongue-and-groove paneling.



Bedroom Six: Bright Caribbean colors give this guest room a "The Party Starts Here" vibe. The rattan ceiling fan, sea theme rug, mint green wicker chair and fabulous glass lamp all contribute to Brooke Steuart's great guest room.


Love the lamp!

Bedroom Seven: Last but not least, a blissful bedroom need not be indoors. Brooke's outdoor sleeper takes advantage of warm days and a water view.