Confession time: someday I’d like to have a beach house. Not for the status, not for the view, not even for the ocean breeze…I want one so I can decorate it! There’s an unwritten rule that says beach houses must be whimsical and colorful and have lots of painted wood. What a dream come true for a crafty gal like me! A kitchen like this one (that I found at Indulgy) is exactly what I picture in my imaginary beach house.
Things that speak to me in this room are the soft colors, the interesting textures (stainless steel and butcher block), and cool retro details like the Smeg refrigerator and barn lights. It’s definitely got a beach cottage vibe, but it conveys that look without hanging a surfboard on the wall or displaying a seashell collection.
Don’t let the cottage simplicity of this room fool you, though. This look could cost you a pretty penny–and not just for the beachfront building lot! Have you seen how much a Smeg refrigerator costs? Luckily, I’ve found five great options for DIYing this look.
1. Stainless Steel Island
I really like the stainless steel top on this table-style island. You can retrofit a counter height table with stainless steel to get a similar look. Just follow the DIY stainless steel countertop tutorial at The Home Project.
2. Wallpaper
It’s no secret that Wallpaper–especially the pretty stuff–doesn’t come cheaply. Luckily, Jones Design Company has discovered an inexpensive alternative: gift wrapping paper! Find a pattern you love then check out the tutorial.
3. Barn Light
Don’t you love the colorful barn lights hanging over the table in my inspiration photo? At Home On the Bay claims it’s a cinch to reproduce these–in any color–with an Ikea Foto Pendant (only $14.99!) and spray paint. A great look for a low cost.
4. Retro Fridge
Love the look–and pretty colors–of retro-style refrigerators but hate the hefty price tag? It’s the perfect look for a beach house kitchen, but you can actually achieve a similar look by painting the fridge you already have (or the one you can afford). Cozy Crooked Cottage shows us how.
5. Butcher Block Countertops
The butcher block countertops in my inspiration photo are the perfect contrast to the pretty painted pastels that surround them. Ikea offers some affordable options, but many of you–like me–don’t have an Ikea conveniently down the street from your home. Luckily, there’s a tutorial for making your own butcherblock countertops at Keeping It Cozy.
Do you dream of a cozy beach house or mountain cottage? Which part of this room would you love to copy?
