Spring is a great time to introduce new warm colors into your decor to help chase away winter’s drab. Inspired by the scenic views, lush vegetation and the cool ocean breezes of our favorite year-round hot spots, tropical-inspired design evokes a casual tranquility and an inviting warmth. Investing in a gorgeous teak wood-paneled bathroom like the one pictured from the Four Seasons Bora Bora may not be in every home designers’ budget, but if you are starting with a somewhat neutral space (white or ivory sinks, tubs, etc.) in a weekend you can transform a dull bathroom into your own island getaway.
To create the Four Seasons’ “teak” effect, paint your bathroom with saturated carmel tones like “Smokey Topaz” or “Carmel Latte” from Behr Paints (Behr.com). The trick is to create warmth with color on as many surfaces as possible to wrap the room in a large neutral palette–including moldings, doors, windows and cabinets. Avoid stark whites for the ceiling and opt for a darker ivory tone like Behr’s “Informal Ivory”.
We love Pfister’s Santiago faucet for this style of design–the handles of the faucet curve delicately like a tropical bird of paradise plant. Adding towel bars and robe hooks from the Santiago collection will add additional contrast to the room, and are perfect for draping with fat, white Egyptian cotton towels and robes. Fill baskets or shelves with more white towels to create a spa-like feeling.
Island bungalows always feature a focal point–a great coastal view, a flowering garden, or a bright window–choose yours! Let the colors of your focal point help guide the remainder of your accent colors. The Key West Fabric Collection from Calico Corners provides a great source of inspiration. Keep in mind, the most luxurious remote getaways are often minimalist in color (opting for primarily woods and whites) while the fun islands of the Caribbean use lots of colors. Pick what feels most natural to you and be sure to add a touch of crystal clear sea blue somewhere in the room (sea glass, bath salts and art work beautifully.)
Finally, accessorize with soft, natural lighting with soothing light-colored textured shades in linen, cotton or even canvas. This Seagrass Giclee Lamp Shade provides texture, warmth and additional sandy tones. Add splashes of bright accessories from your accent colors, a beachy-scented candle and a few tropical plants and your personal paradise is ready to enjoy.
What features of “paradise” most inspire your home design?
