Bring the Beach Home

Here are some seaworthy finds that will help you infuse a breezy, beach-style into your home, no matter how close (or how far) you are to the real thing! A luxurious trip to Barbados or Hawaii may not be in the budget this summer, especially for those who have rather large mortgages, but who says you can't bring some of that laid-back beach style home? Create a waterside resort in your own home with these great ideas.

Beachcomber baskets: Give your home that natural beach-house-style decor with fabulous beachcomber baskets. Hand woven from seagrass, corn husks or other organic fibers, these baskets are perfect for storing magazines and books, games to decks of cards or beach towels. Check out your local home decor store for these and keep your eyes peeled at summer yard sales, where the prices are so low you need not dip into your precious metal funds to purchase them!

Shell covered mirror or picture frame: Nothing says tropical quite like a smooth shimmery shell. But before you go overboard with the sandy decor, check out the chic shell mirrors that are recently creating a buzz within the decor community. They are fairly simple, but make a strong statement. You could also fashion your own, by gluing seashells around the edges of an old mirror or even your new contemporary bathroom vanities, and glaze them with iridescent paint (even nail polish will work). The perfect touch for relaxed seaside living!

Natural starfish and sand dollars: Place a handful of natural starfish or sand dollars in a cylinder vase, or a shallow dish for a subtle detail on any tabletop or shelf that evokes a beachy feel. Many greenhouse suppliers have these as well as other decorative shells for sale, or you could go hunting for them the old fashion way by digging through the sand on the beach! If you do not have easy access to snorkeling or beach-combing (two methods where these treasures can be found rather easily), they are available to be purchased online at a great price.

Seahorse, palm tree or sea shell themed coasters: Simple, fun, stylish, very beach-chic, and practical, beachy oceanic coasters can be found in many shops through the summer months and online year round. Most are generally made of tumbled marble, granite, pewter or tinted and frosted glass. They are simply the perfect sea-inspired touch (and table protector) for your outdoor tabletop, not to mention the fact that they are quite a conversation starter! The price for coasters is usually very cheap, which means you will not have to search the yellow pages for bankruptcy attorneys Southern California!

Coral throw cushions: Though much beach style is often inspired by sandy beaches, don't forget to look at what is happening under the sea for inspiration. Look for coral (or sea creature) designs on cushion covers in dramatic colors, such as orange and brown, or turquoise and yellow. No matter what color you choose, they will certainly give your home a fresh take on fabulous seaside style.

With these simple decorating tips, you can turn your home into a sea-side retreat that will make you feel as if you are on permanent vacation!