Dissecting the Details
I wasn't planning to discuss the interior design of another house so soon after my All White House post, but I came across this gorgeous Bahamian retreat and couldn't resist.
Interior designer John McCall recalls that his inspiration for decorating this Bahamian retreat came from a visit he had on Valentino's yacht a few years before. This, of course immediately got my attention. He was particularly taken with the combination of blues and mahogany wood finishes. And, as he expressed in the UK House & Gardens article, 'It's not reinventing the wheel, but it really stuck in my mind and I wanted to be able to use that in a project one day,' Inspiration can strike us anywhere...
The newly built Palladian style architecture, complete with lintels over the doors and columns around the perimeter give the house quite a formal air. However, the open plan layout and relaxed furnishings allows for a more casual vibe. Maintaining a palette of blue and white fabrics for the upholstery and pillows throughout adds a low-key sophisticated simplicity that's very inviting. High ceilings, white plaster walls, mahogany wood finishes, painted furniture, sisal rugs and chinoiserie ceramics all reflect a classic plantation-style caribbean island retreat.
There are certainly elements that can be transferred from this house to yours for an inspired summertime makeover, including: a mix of ceramic and chinoiserie bowls, jars, vases, plant holders, sisal rugs, linen lampshades, slip-covered armchairs, hurricane lamps, collections of natural river-stones, seashells and touches of wicker furniture. Williams Sonoma Home is one of my go to resources for great classic accessories.
Photography by Alexander James
Love the unexpected flourish of golden pineapples atop the mahogany cane bed frame
Oversized mirror makes a big statement contrasting nicely with the simplicity of the vanity all in white
I'd love to find these wicker shades - they're perfect!
This bedroom's decor would be equally at home on Martha's Vineyard
