The New Coastal

"Since we live at the beach I like to have elements with that vibe, but not in a traditional way. I love things that are worn and loved.””

-Nancy Rafi

"There is a certain resignation to sandy feet on the floor and the embracing of imperfection...””

-Nancy Chace

COMMON ELEMENTS OF COASTAL STYLE

For most Rhode Islanders, a water view doesn’t require a far drive or even a walk. Our state is lined with beaches and dotted with ponds and lakes. Whether your digs have a dock or you’re on a third floor in Providence, seaside style is in our DNA – after all, we are the Ocean State. Use these tips to bring a carefree vibe to wherever you are.

No-fuss window treatments like blinds and Roman shades

Furniture that is durable and comfortable

Colors that evoke happiness

Bare flooring

Authentic natural objects such as seashells and stones

Easy-care textiles such as slipcovers and tablecloths

Visit the coastal decor section of most home furnishings stores and chances are good that you’ll find the typical trappings: navy and white stripes, anchor motifs, and perhaps signs in wood or canvas about life being better at the beach. However, not all lands’ end dwellers have the same interpretation of what it means to provide location cues indoors. For homeowners Gail Greenwood of Little Compton, Nancy Rafi of Wickford, and Nancy Chace of Bristol, living by the water means having digs where it’s okay to enter with sandy feet, comfort is key, views are unobstructed, and color signals all the feels of an endless summer.

A common thread for this spin on coastal is that functionality is as crucial as design and ease of use. “It is important to me that a space be practical and stylish, durable and fun – where a balance exists between beauty and comfort,” says Chace of her historic home. “In a cottage most everything is touchable and somewhat bullet proof. There is a certain resignation to sandy feet on the floor and the embracing of imperfection that comes with a livable home. Often cottages have a collected feel where its belongings take on unique personality and meaning over time. A happy place where memories are made, and form, function, and fun reign supreme!”