Home Tour: Coastal Contemporary by the Bay
Hard finishes of my latest coastal new build
Welcome to my latest project on Long Beach Island! Today, I’m taking you on a tour of the hard finishes that bring this beautiful coastal home to life. From floors that look like the beach beneath your feet to tiles that shimmer like sea glass, every choice was made with purpose and a love for the coastal lifestyle.
FLOORING: DURABLE DRIFTWOOD
When it comes to flooring, I always start with durability and beauty in mind. For this home, I chose an engineered hardwood wide plank white oak with a light, driftwood finish. The soft, muted tones mimic the natural hues of the shore, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. This choice not only complements the coastal theme but also stands up to the wear and tear of sandy feet and busy family life.
KITCHEN: CRISP AND CLEAN
Before I considered finishes, I actually changed the layout to prioritize the island as a gathering place and a hidden fridge within nearly floor to ceiling pantry cabinets. I believe the heart of the home deserves finishes that are both functional and stunning. In this build, the entire aesthetic thread is contemporary. I opted for classic white shaker on the upper cabinets paired with a white oak with beautiful vertical grain on the lower cabinetry, island, and fridge/pantry area.
The island is quite expansive at nearly 9’. To ensure the countertop was a statement piece, I chose a gorgeous Soho White quartzite paired with clean white on the perimeter. The quartzite, with its beautiful sand-like crystals, adds a touch of elegance while being incredibly resilient – perfect for a space that sees a lot of activity. The backsplash, an upscale yet natural marble chevron, ties in the coastal theme and makes the kitchen a true showstopper.
BATHROOMS: SPA-LIKE SERENITY
For the bathrooms, I wanted to create spa-like retreats for the ultimate relaxation after a day at the beach. Each bathroom took on a slightly different feel, from the custom vanity cabinetry to the textured mirrors to the statement light fixtures, all of which having been selected and designed based on the tile style and pattern of the walls and floor. For the hall bath, playful fan tiles (or as I like to call them, mermaid tiles) in a beautiful, reflective blue were chosen to bring in a touch of whimsy. For the primary bathroom, a full wall of Mother of Pearl shells create a magical, iridescent experience.
LIVING SPACES: WARMTH AND TEXTURE
In the living and dining areas, it was essential to maintain a warm and welcoming environment. I selected a neutral palette for the walls, with soft whites and beiges that reflect the natural light beautifully. The fireplace, clad in stacked ceramic reminiscent of coral, serves as a stunning focal point and adds texture and depth to the space. Ceiling accents like the natural wood beams in the downstairs family room and shiplap throughout the entire top floor bring in an element of old world seaside charm, making the space feel cozy and grounded.
Why these choices?
Every finish in this home was chosen to enhance the coastal living experience. The materials reflect the colors and textures of the beach, creating a sense of continuity and harmony throughout the home. But it’s not just about aesthetics – durability and functionality were key considerations, ensuring that each element can withstand the demands of coastal living.
Final thoughts
Designing this home was a labor of love, and I’m thrilled with how it turned out. It’s a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, a true reflection of what coastal living is all about. I hope this tour has inspired you and given you some insight into the thought process behind each choice. If you’re dreaming of a coastal retreat of your own, I’d love to help you bring that vision to life.
Thank you for joining me on this home tour. Stay tuned for more insights and inspirations!
