South Florida has a combination of old-world charm and timeless, pristine beaches.
Others need to grasp a bit of this good life through other means.
Get the laid-back look of South Florida and Key West with inspiration from these island homes.
Credit: Jean Allsopp
A range of textures also enlivens the space.
Indoor-outdoor living spaces will also hint at the summer air when weather permits.
These curved lines appear as the motion of waves in the ocean.
Credit: Annie Schlechter
Iconic Symbol
Nothing says"beach house"like a wall-mounted sailfish.
This coastal icon gets a modern overhaul with glossy white paint in the bunk room.
The nautical bunks also got the white paint treatment.
Credit: Annie Schlechter
Old and new pieces of rattan furniture sit under its vaulted ceiling.
The homeowner picked up the antique daybedat a yard salefor $20.
Well-Blended
Tropical design can be modern, traditional, a little bohemian, or even a mix.
Credit: Annie Schlechter
Dressing small rooms in white also gives them a more spacious feel.
White walls, upholstery, and accents allow a spectrum of ocean blues to pop.
In this user-friendly kitchen, pared-down appliances and open shelving allow quick meals on the stovetop or outdoor grill.
Credit: Annie Schlechter
The roman shades add more texture, shading the room in more neutrals.
The contrasting dark wood bed frame adds a nice break in the monochromatic space.
Seaside Oasis
Louvered shutters echoing the bath cabinets provide privacy and filter sunlight throughout the house.
Credit: Tria Giovan
The shades of blue are a friendly reminder of the sea and sand.
The wicker chair is also a tribute to Florida’s old-world charm.
Colonial Cool
This Key West bedroom emits a distinct West Indies feel.
Credit: Jean Allsopp
Transoms improve circulation, inviting breezes into this suite.
Informal furnishings, such as an iron bed, underscore the home’s casual architecture.
Can’t-Miss Color
Funky island accessories fill this laid-back living space.
Credit: Jean Allsopp
Anchored by a coral-inspired coffee table, this room has the ultimate always-on-vacation vibe.
The white slipcovered furniture and accent pillows contrast sharply with the bold artwork.
Artful Display
Hundreds of hand-placed shells form a textured backsplash in this crafty kitchen.
Credit: Jean Allsopp
A glass door and touches of green bring the tropical landscape indoors.
The kitchen allows you to imagine the sands between your hands as the rocky texture is at your fingertips.
The nautical decor adds playfulness to the room.
Credit: Jean Allsopp
The complementary coral color in the room’s finishes is an extra display of Key West style.
The vintage Heywood-Wakefield bamboo furniture set feels crisply shipshape with cushions covered in marine-blue fabric and white piping.
The overgrown tropical plants are the exact backdrop when planning a coastal vibe for your decor.
Credit: Robert Mauer
Furniture covered in the outdoor fabric allows the room to stand up to the elements, including wet swimsuits.
Easy Living
A mix of old and new elements gives the room character in thissunlight-filled living room.
White bookcases with walnut shelves suggest nautical ladders.
Credit: Robert Mauer
The chairs' woven-leather backs add rustic sophistication, while lime-green fabric with blue accents adorns seat cushions.
This island counter has just the right amount of natural sunlight.
Natural pine floors, walls, and ceilings preserve thecottage’s retro, lived-in look.
Credit: Troy Campbell
Vintage furniture adds to the casual feel.
Prime Location
Painted aqua and pink, the dining table and chairs make a playful statement.
Storage Savvy
Festive barware lines shelves and fills cabinets in this fun space.
Credit: Troy Campbell
A window opening onto the porch makes passing snacks and drinks a cinch.
Brightly colored drinkware is perfect for when you decide to make your firstisland-inspired cocktail.
Party Ready
A parade of daiquiri-inspired colors set this porch in motion.
Credit: Troy Campbell
Plenty of seating in this dining space invites family dinners or cocktail parties to happen.
The ceiling fan, lantern lighting, and wood elements add to an island atmosphere.
Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn
Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn
Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn
Credit: Troy Campbell
Credit: Troy Campbell
Credit: Steven Brooke
Credit: Steven Brooke
