​Welcome to the tropics.

​I have always wanted of a little bungalow on the coast (Maybe even on an island). I yearn to be able to step out of my backdoor directly onto the beach. So while I dream we can pretend by decorating our house in a Tropical / Costal style. 

When I think about my dream house, I think of the laid back, stress free and calming effect the ocean has; of laying in a hammock with the palm trees, light breeze and the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves surrounding me.

To achieve that in our home I incorporated ocean greens, Naturals materials and tropical plants (be it fake) and patterns. (We have multiple fish tanks around the house too – My husband has magical fish keeping abilities along and green fingers)

I also added some texture with different types of fabric on our scatter cushions and using pallet wood for our one patio seating area and our distressed wooden wall focus point.

We added to the feel with ruthann lamps, a corral ornament and beach styled wall prints. We painted our bed side tables and headboard a distressed white and carried the theme into my office area with cork pin boards, the oceanic colours and a flowing environment.

​We took our indoors out by making our patios snuggly corners of comfort, quite and relaxation. 

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If you are looking into creating your very own coastal feel in your City home here are a few ways you can achieve it without breaking the bank.  (I am all for DIY)

Add some netting – Netting over a bed for example, creates a romantic feel and takes you to the feeling of billowing winds coming off the ocean.– Netting over a bed for example, creates a romantic feel and takes you to the feeling of billowing winds coming off the ocean.

Colour! – Paint a wall or piece/s of furniture. Use scatter cushions and Art pieces.

Prints – If I say prints I need you to think of bold leaf, large graphic pasterns. Be careful to not go too crazy with patterns: a few solid coloured items will help lift out the patterns you chose will give your patterns a bigger impact.

Natural Textures – Jute, bamboo, banana leaf baskets, coarsely woven materials, woven grass are just a few types of textures that you can consider. Wood is also a good way to add natural texture and warmth.

​Tropical plants – Can you imagine the Island beach life without palm trees, Strelitzias and hibiscus. Neither can I, So add one or two of them into your scheme. Just don’t over plant we are thinking tropics not Amazon! (You can opt for the fake type if you are a plant killer like I am – Remember I told you my husband is the one with the green thumb definitely not me. I plant them he saves them and keeps them alive.)

Outdoor living – Look for ways to merge your Outdoor and indoor spaces, add cozy garden furniture, add a canvas canopy for shade (add a hammock – just saying) or partially enclose your area with bamboo or reeds (or canvas)

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All that being said I can just add that to me tropical décor makes your environment fresh, sunny, warmer and colourful. It mixes effortlessly and adds a bit of whimsy and provides to the breakaway you need after a tiresome day at work.  Stepping straight into a mini vacation.

So if your idea of tropical is a plant in the corner or a full-blown jumping right into the deep end explosion of colour pattern and palm trees, I hope this blog and tips will help guide you on your escape.