Nautical by nature

Get in theme and make the most of the sunny season!

Writer_contributorSally Ridge

Keep summer alive by adding a splash of seaside to your decor.

With a classic palette of blues (especially navy), white and red, you can create an easy, breezy theme for a holiday home, or summer-themed room.

In this gorgeous setting, concrete, pale-wash floors and white shutters create a neutral backdrop for you to dress up with nautical notes.

If you are working with functional surfaces, such as concrete, be sure to soften them up with soft furnishings such as squishy cushions.

Top tips:

1 When going for a seaside theme, pair blues, whites and reds with soft neutral, earthy tones, so as not to overwhelm the space.

2 Stripes are essential for a nautical theme! Mix and match different styles – vertical, horizontal of varying thickness – there are no set rules.

3 If you have hard furnishings, such as the concrete features in this room, ensure you counteract these with plenty of soft and comfy cushions. Make sure they fit into your theme with complementary colours and patterns.

4 Floors should always be functional and durable in a holiday home. Being able to sweep out that sand is a must. To add some colour and comfort, add a earthy toned or blue rug.