Buying a new house in the Sarasota/Manatee area is an exciting event, perhaps allowing you to live in the home of your dreams. As you make plans to move in, you may also be considering ways to create a stunning interior for your new living space. Florida interiors capitalize on the fresh breezes, warm climate and many days of sunshine.
Furnishings, textiles, accessories and art should create a unique, cohesive look. Whether your new home is a historic mansion, a beach house or a modern, contemporary residence, you can decorate to define your personal style, complement the architecture and create a comfortable living space that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Florida Decor Style
From Florida’s earliest houses to the Sarasota Modern architectural style, Florida’s design styles have incorporated environmental factors into the architecture and interiors. Cross-ventilation systems and large windows capture breezes. Terracotta tile roofs and thick stucco walls keep heat out. Swimming pools, patios, lush landscaping and wide verandahs integrate the indoors with the outdoors. Your interior design theme can capitalize on these elements.
Interior Palettes
Cool, light colors work well with Florida interiors. Off-whites, muted tans, pastels and soft greys provide a neutral backdrop and feeling of coolness to interiors. If you like drama and contrast, use bright colors as highlights throughout your living space. Paint an accent wall in coral or fern green to complement the natural colors of the area.
Use color to create a design theme. Navy blue and white give a nautical look. Pastels, such as dusty rose, pale greens and sky blue, create a romantic look that can be enhanced with floral accessories. If your taste goes to minimalist or modern decor, consider a black and white palette with bold geometric designs.
Flooring serves as the base layer in a room’s design, providing color and texture. Although wood floors are common in the area, you may opt for natural stone, terracotta tile or carpet. Integrate both color and pattern in accessories, such as throw pillows, wall art and area rugs, to blend with walls and floors.
Furnishings
Furnishings in Florida-style interiors continue the look of airiness and sunshine. For a casual beach house look, go for rattan, bamboo or wicker. For a more formal look, use period furniture with wooden accents or overstuffed sofas and easy chairs. Wrought iron tables, lamps, bed frames and curtain rods give a Mediterranean look, a style that integrates well with the tropical feel of Florida interiors.
Draperies and Window Coverings
Large windows enhance cross-ventilation and bring in fresh air. However, they also allow heat from the sun to enter the living space. Window coverings that can be closed during the heat of the day keep interiors cool. Go for light-colored curtains, thermal blinds, bamboo shades or slatted shutters that can be adjusted to capture breezes when opened.
Window treatments contribute to a decorative theme. Use roll-up canvas shades in nautical decor. Sheers billowing in the breeze give a romantic look. White eyelet panels on black rods work well with minimalist interiors. Exterior awnings complement almost every Florida architectural style, presenting an attractive way to add texture to the exterior façade and shade the interior from heat. Awnings come in a variety of materials, including metal, canvas, wood and acrylic.
Whether you work with a design professional or do the decorating yourself, your home’s interior should reflect your taste and lifestyle. Experiment with color, pattern and texture from floor to ceiling. Let your decorative scheme accentuate the attractive features of your new Sarasota residence and create a comfortable living space.