What's on your summer reading list? This story might just top it! It all began last March when my longtime Chester clients made the exciting decision to purchase a second home in the charming shore town of Spring Lake, NJ. While the closing process was still underway, I drove south on the Garden State Parkway to get a head start on designing their dream beach retreat.
The sellers left no furniture behind, so we had a blank slate to work with. Though the house's structure was in good condition, certain elements stood out as needing immediate updates—like the lighting and Big Box store island fixtures in the kitchen. Other offenders included nondescript window treatments, a dull fireplace mantel, and monotonous paint colors on the second floor. Addressing these would make a significant impact without requiring construction.
Creating a Coastal Retreat
For every client, I start by studying their inspiration photos and listening to their vision. Here, the goal was a perfect balance of casual elegance, a touch of farmhouse charm, and a measured dose of coastal influence. This direction guided our palette:
Soft blues
Gentle greens
Light beiges
Warm wood tones
We also discussed layouts that would ensure ample seating and sleeping accommodations. For the dining room, we selected:
A long bench
Four side chairs
Two host chairs for gatherings of up to ten people
For the guest room, we chose a queen-sized Serena & Lily spindle bed, paired with a sofa bed for a family of four. To maximize functionality, we included a trundle bed for extra sleeping space, perfect for kids' sleepovers.
From Mood Boards to Reality
I turned my plans into 2D and 3D floor designs and created mood boards. My clients were eager to enjoy the home by mid-June, so I sourced in-stock furnishings to meet the timeline. To balance quick delivery with quality, I found a local “quick-ship” trade showroom that delivered custom upholstery within six weeks.
We layered the space with custom-designed rugs that brought the color palette together—cream, gray, and sage patterns or driftwood tones. The final touches included coastal artwork, woven textures, and refreshed kitchen elements like pendant lighting and open shelving to enhance the room’s charm.
The Reveal
By the time school let out, this beach house was transformed into a cozy, inviting retreat ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. Whether savoring a Christmas in July vibe with a new delivery or watching kids giggle during a summer sleepover, the design captures functionality, beauty, and the essence of coastal living.
If you’re dreaming of a home makeover—whether snowy or sandy—reach out to bring your vision to life. Please view the full PDF file below: