A Year Ago Today
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A Year Ago Today…

Melanie Morris July 27, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Interior Design 0

In some ways, this time last year doesn’t look too different for us. For that, we feel very fortunate. Many of our clients reside off the island during the course of their projects. Because of this, our collaboration with them started and has continued to be done online. Now, everyone who would normally be in the office is logging in from their home office. Thanks to our previous set up we’ve been able to pivot with them seamlessly. The difference we are witnessing now is a significant shift that is driving some new trends in design that we are incredibly excited about.

Time For A Change

I’m sure we all feel like we are undergoing a healing and awakening after last year. Whether we realize it or not, it was indeed time for a change. Due to the circumstances of 2020, alternative solutions have now become the new trend. Working professionals no longer feel like they must be tethered to their desks in their corner offices of a high-rise building. From CEOs to associates, we all have learned to make our situations work when it comes to working remotely. Last year, the main difference was that we had to make it work. Now we want to make it work for us and our families.

A Year Ago Today

We Won’t Know Until We Try

If 2020 hadn’t come along, we all would have said, “well, that will never work.” When push came to shove, everyone made the most of what they could last year. Many people have come to realize that they really appreciate the flexibility of being at home or being at the office. In our local area, we are seeing many people relocating to the Virgin Islands. Why is that, you ask? Since many don’t have to be in the office, then why not be by the beach? Of course, we can relate this way of thinking on several levels. Plus, workaholism and corporate office culture have never resonated with our way of thinking, to begin with. When you have more freedom and achieve the week’s goals, you can also take a quick dip in the ocean during your lunch break. Imagine that, enjoying the island in all its wonders in the middle of a workday. Now that is what I call work-life balance.

Work Life BalanceThe New Home Trends

  1. Home Gyms

    With this in mind, the requests that have become needs in our clients’ homes are no surprise. Home gyms have taken on a new sense of urgency. If you’ve tried order gym equipment right now, you know that even the bare gym essentials are hard to come by because everyone is thinking this way. The ability to work out with your trainer or drop into your favorite spin class via zoom has really helped to propel this wave.

Home Offices

2. Home Offices

Home offices are also being integrated with flexible office areas into other parts of the house, from dining rooms to guest bedrooms. This enables everyone in the house (kids included) to have their own dedicated workspace.

Zoom Rooms

3. Zoom Rooms

Zoom rooms, or at least zoom spaces, are another request we’ve received a lot more of recently. There are instances where you need to be able to put your headphones on and have a business meeting (or go to class in my daughter’s case) while other people inhabit the house. A dedicated zoom room makes it easy to step away from the family and have a well-thought-out location with a suitable backdrop for those types of meetings.

A Place to Work

4. Kitchen Remodels

Kitchen remodels have also reached a fever pitch. When we stay home and cook almost every meal we eat, we naturally want the space to better serve us and our needs by incorporating more storage and upgraded appliances. I really love this trend because I have maintained that a well-designed kitchen can actually support a healthier lifestyle for years. When cooking is convenient, and everything you need is within arm’s reach, it is much faster and more enjoyable to prepare and dine in.

Kitchen Remodels

If you’ve searched the web via Google or visited any of your social media platforms, you may have noticed that vendor product offerings have also shifted to reflect these up-and-coming trends. Products you would need for a home gym, home office, zoom room, or kitchen remodel are all there are your fingertips, waiting to be ordered. While this second wave is rolling out a little slower, consumers are taking note and keeping these products in mind for their new and improved way of living, all from the comfort of home.

Condo Remodel After
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Beach Remodel Before and After Condo Tour

Melanie Morris July 20, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Before & After, Interior Design 0

Networking with professionals in your field can open you up to new opportunities. I was introduced to this client by a local real estate agent. The new property owner had just purchased a two-bedroom condo with a fantastic location and view. It was also amazingly well preserved since 1986, and it was high time for an update. The owner intended to use the home as a vacation rental property to enjoy it part of the time himself.

The ultimate goal being to eventually resell the property in a few years to realize some profits! This project was about ROI from the start, and we knew we needed to find creative ways to get the most bang for our client’s buck. Since this space required a lot of updating, we knew we needed to make some careful decisions.

Condo Remodel

All The Right Places

Many homeowners are in this exact situation. They look forward to creating a great space for their family to spend time in while also trying to keep costs under control and be sure it turns out to be a good investment.  It may seem counterintuitive to hire a designer when you are trying to maximize every dollar, but this is the exact time you need a professional. A fresh set of eyes without the emotional attachment will help you to sort through the choices so you can put the money in the right places.

Before and After Beach RemodelObserving the house, we know the view and beachside location are the best attributes for the property, and we wanted to be sure we took full advantage of these luxuries. The original layout of the property had an entrance into a foyer that blocked the view entirely and was dark and closed in. We removed the wall that separated the foyer and kitchen and expanded the reach of the kitchen to give it a larger footprint for entertaining and preparation.

Change the Point of View

Here you will see that the original kitchen was small and outdated.

Condo Remodel
Incorporating space from the foyer allowed us to open up that real estate to make way for the view and create a spacious kitchen anyone would love!

This is the view from just inside the front door!

Condo Remodel After

The floors were replaced throughout with porcelain plank tile in a weathered wood finish.  It’s super easy to clean and nonslip under wet sandy feet!  The client also had an amazing collection of local art for us to work with. To highlight these beautiful works, we went with a museum aesthetic. The walls are a light cream color, that pairs perfectly with neutral floors and white cabinets. All of these elements create a subtle cascading backdrop for the vibrant colors within each piece. We also had a little fun with the countertops.  This quartz material is a cream and turquoise swirl with a little sparkle. It’s probably not something you would do if you lived here 365 days a year but it’s a fun touch in a vacation home.

Condo Remodel

Here is another view of the refreshed living and kitchen space that opens up to the gorgeous view outside.  We selected upholstery and accent pillows in vibrant colors straight out of the artwork featured on the walls.

Condo Remodel After

Natural Highlights

This bedroom faces the ocean and has a cozy porch attached to it.  These features are the perfect natural touches a prospective vacationer would love. It is time for an update here for sure!

Condo Remodel Before

To update this room, we used another beautiful piece of art as a jumping-off point for the fabric, bedding, and rug choices. To keep the costs under control we opted for simple rattan furnishings and a durable wool flat weave rug on the floor. We were very strategic in our selections for furnishings in the bedrooms because we wanted to put more of the budget into the overhead lighting and refreshing the bathrooms.

Condo Remodel

The second bedroom we configured to accommodate four guests if needed with the double bed and daybed with a trundle.  This is a great setup for kids or even a couple with a small child or two. Flexible sleeping spaces can really help maximize rental bookings.

Condo Remodel

For this bedroom, we wanted to keep the furniture costs down so we could stretch the budget to include a bathroom refresh.  One of my favorite ways to do this is with a wall mount upholstered headboard.  They are inexpensive and they really do the trick to bring the whole room together. When paired with fresh white bedding and big colorful pillows it can pull off an upscale look.

Condo Remodel

A New Wave of Living

Remodeling with intention can help you get an excellent finish and spend your money on things that will pay dividends when it comes time to resell.  A well-thought-out design plan will save you not only money but time!

If you’re contemplating a remodel or redesign of a space and trying to put together a realistic budget, check out our renovation workbook planner.  It’s prefilled with the actual numbers from past projects like this one to help you make intelligent decisions.

Luxury Bedding
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Vacation Rental Must-Haves

Melanie Morris June 26, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Furnishings, Interior Design, Tips & Tricks 0



Renting your home out as a vacation property is easier than ever, thanks to sites like VRBO and Airbnb. More people are choosing to rent homes rather than stay in hotels, and many individuals can now purchase vacation properties thanks to the additional income the rentals can provide.

Almost two million short-term rental properties are listed on VRBO, the most popular rental site in the US. According to VRBO, there are over 38,000 properties in the Caribbean that can be rented short-term for your next getaway.  If you happen to be so lucky to own one of those properties, you have some major competition for bookings.

Great design can help your property stand out from other listings, stay cleaner and fresher longer, and with less maintenance. This will help your listing to garner 5-star reviews from guests who will be back and recommend your property to their friends and family! Keep reading, for more information on how to create the ultimate vacation rental.

For an even deeper dive into all things that can elevate your vacation rental, check out our eBook, full of decades of rental design experience.



1. Local Art

Your décor should represent the surrounding region, and while we don’t want to be too over the top, you do want your guests to feel what is unique to the area. If they have come to the Caribbean for vacation, are you sure you want to market a farmhouse? Incorporating local art is a great way to achieve an authentic vacation experience. When you feature the work of local artists in your home, you also give back to the community, and in return, those artists are likely to have great things to say about your property. It’s a win all the way around and helps to bring everything within the design full circle.

Vacation Rental Must Haves

The painting over the sofa is by local artist Elisa Bryan.

The décor featured in this vacation rental has a coastal aesthetic. The rental is also located on a Caribbean beach, which helps support each piece and makes everything in the space look and feel appropriate for a Caribbean getaway.  We used colors that the homeowner would not have chosen for her primary residence in the Pacific Northwest!  The turquoise and coral are a fun Caribbean touch, while the natural textures of the rug and coffee table keep things feeling easy and casual.

2. Luxury Bedding

Unique guest experiences lead to great reviews and repeat business.  Since many people look forward to sleeping in on their vacations, make them comfortable.  It might be tempting to view linens as disposable to where you can just buy the cheapest thing available, but that is not always for the best.

Luxury Bedding


There is a certain way we always make up the bed in rentals. If you look through our portfolio pictures, you will see the same format repeated. The things you don’t see are just as important. You don’t see the amazing comfy mattress here that is firm in the core but has a nice thick memory foam top. You don’t see the mattress pad that is waterproof but doesn’t make crinkly noises when you lay on it. Lastly, I wish you could feel the silky bamboo sheets. They are so nice and cool and breathable on warm Caribbean nights and naturally stain-resistant.

3. Flexible Sleeping Spaces


Functionality is critical in a rental home.  Adding extra sleeping spaces leads to increased revenue.  A couple of our favorite ways to keep the sleeping arrangements flexible are with two twins that can combine into a king and adding ottomans that pop out into twin beds. Ottomans can also serve as a place for luggage to land during your guests’ stay.

Flexible Sleeping Spaces

This ottoman pops out into an extra bed and is perfect for a couple with a young child that wants to stay close or makes the room suitable for three kids.  The cover is a machine-washable slipcover made from durable outdoor fabric, making it both functional and practical.


Flexible Sleeping Spaces for Vacation Rentals
These two twin beds combine to make a king, and the wall mount headboard works perfectly with either setup.  Planning this ahead of time, has given the room a lot of flexibility.

4. Easy Care Materials

Housekeeping is essential! If you have a popular home in peak season, you will likely have days when one guest checks out at 10 am and the following checks in at 3 pm, leaving only five short hours to completely clean and reset the space for the next guest to enjoy. So set your housekeeping staff up for success on those days! Choose rugs that are easy to care for, and that can be spot cleaned. We always recommend slipcovers on furniture and buying a second set just in case. If someone has a spill on the sofa, pull that cover off, and put the new one on! The first one can be washed offsite and returned for the next group. You can learn more about slipcovers for seaside home furniture on our previous blog here.


Easy Care Materials


This light and beachy sofa is covered in Sunbrella outdoor fabric, and the covers come off quickly and easily to be machine washed.  We even did the pillows all in outdoor fabrics!

5. Great Photography Makes for IG Worthy Moments


This is where you can see your investment in great interiors work for you. When you create a space that photographs well, your listing will be more eye-catching. Breathtaking spaces will stop potential renters from scrolling past your listing and will help your home to book first. Great décor will get your guests talking, and there’s no better advertisement than having your guests send a picture to friends back home or post them on social media. I work with an amazing photographer and have learned so much over the years from his perspective on how to achieve the best Instagram-worthy moments from photoshoots. There are many ways to design a room that will help it to photograph better.


IG Worthy Moments


The front entry of this rental home lets you know from the minute you walk in the door that this place is going to be fun!  This space has also been the location for many selfies!  Creating little moments like this throughout the design is great for marketing and making memories!


6. A Well-Stocked Kitchen

More often than not, vacationers will choose to rent a home, over a hotel so that they can have a kitchen. This might be because they have young children that are hard to feed at restaurants or they may simply want to celebrate a holiday with their family in a new location.  Providing a fully stocked kitchen will be attractive to those renters.  We often set up kitchens for our clients with everything from the coffee maker to the dishes. To make the process quick and easy we’ve put together our kitchen checklist along with the bedding and safety items, in an all-in-one document that’s available to you on our website, here.

kitchen design

 

After remodeling this client’s kitchen, I was a little jealous of all the great storage space we were able to add! This helped to free up even more real estate within the vacation rental for those little touches like champagne and fresh flowers.

Here are some resources to help you get your vacation rental property set up quickly and easily. 

    1. Decorating and Designing Your Vacation Rental Property
    2. Vacation Rental Checklist

If you need more assistance with your vacation rental property, give us a call. We would love to help you on your way to renting your vacation property for a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to receive compliments from your guests and repeat business. 

St. John
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Getaway Destinations

Melanie Morris June 15, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Interior Design, Outdoor Living 4

We have shared our expertise when it comes to preparing your vacation rental with our Vacation Rental Checklists and how-to guides on How To Decorate and Design Your Vacation Rental Property. We also want to take the opportunity to share some of what’s special about a visit to the Virgin Islands.  So many people ask us where we go for vacation when we live in a vacation destination and many times the answer is to other islands!

Get Away Destinations

Have you put any thought into planning your next trip for the summer? It can sometimes feel like a daunting task between all the options that are right at our fingertips. With various travel sites along with Airbnb, and VRBO, where you want to stay during your visit can be overwhelming. We hope our ideas help you narrow down your search, and while we are partial to the U.S. Virgin Islands, there are countless getaway destinations in this unique pocket of the world.  

Various islands and cays make up the Virgin Islands, and each one represents its own unique charm and personality. The Caribbean is home to pristine hideaways known for their views, architecture, art, cuisines, underwater adventures, and of course beaches.

St. Thomas

1. St. Thomas

St. Thomas is not only our home but a beautiful getaway destination full of lush rolling green hills and spacious beaches. If you’re looking forward to a day at the beach, you can enjoy the crystal clear waters of the VI from the beach, a kayak, an eco-tour, or from the deck of one of our many day sail charters.

For those looking for a combination of land and sea during their stay, Coral World Ocean Park on Coki Beach hosts exhibits on marine life and their conservation efforts to preserve the creatures that live here and their underwater homes. Coki beach is also a wonderful place to learn to scuba dive. My daughter earned her certification at their dive center that is a great resource to learn and explore.

Buck Island is home to a pristine national park, known for its nature trails and underwater passages that make for exciting aquatic excursions.

Magen’s Bay is rated one of the Caribbean’s best beaches with its sugar sands and beach winds that congregate on a crescent-shaped bay decorated with vegetation and a vibrant landscape. Here, you can ease along the shoreline, taking in the island in all of its natural beauty.  And our favorite place for Sunday morning beach walks, My husband and I never miss a week!

As some of you may have read from our previous blog, What Makes Caribbean Architecture, the history of St. Thomas plays a considerable role in its architecture. St. Thomas’s capital, Charlotte-Amalie, holds 17th-century colonial relics alongside the island’s natural charm and modernity. You can also find waterfront restaurants with breathtaking views or lively beach bars to soak up the local fair. Don’t forget to visit the 99 steps for stunning panoramic views of our beautiful city or a historic tour from the St. Thomas Historic Society. 

Is St. Thomas starting to sound like your getaway of choice? You can book your stay at the Eternity Villa on Magens Bay, St. Thomas, here. One of our projects!

St. John

2. St. John

St. John exudes a casual atmosphere and is the perfect place to unplug and reset. It is also one of the smallest of the main U.S. Virgin Islands and is the backdrop to dozens of beaches, cays, and trails. The island is ¾ national park! This island is perfect for nature lovers with its rugged landscapes, including a four-mile reef bay trail or snorkeling ventures at Honeymoon Beach. Trunk Bay is another local treasure here that has an underwater kingdom of a nature trail. That’s right, a nature trail that is completely underwater!

The most popular destinations on St. John are Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. Like the islands themselves, each bay provides a different atmosphere for its residents and its visitors. Cruz Bay is more upbeat and livelier, while Coral Bay is more laid back and peaceful. There is something for everyone. You can start your day in Cruz Bay with some energizing entertainment and wind down for the evening in the peace and quiet of Coral Bay. 

You will never run out of outdoor plans during your stay on St. John. Half of the island is dedicated to conservation and is zoned as a national park. This ecosystem is a haven for all island life on land and sea. A frequent destination being Hurricane Hole of the Mangrove Forrest off the coast of Coral Bay. This is another protected area to maintain the awe and natural wonders of the mangroves that are at home on St. John.

St. Croix

3. St. Croix

St. Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and is a popular location for snorkelers and divers. They all come to see the only underwater national monument in the U.S., Buck Island Reef National Park. This 200-acre aquatic oasis is a colorful ecosystem dedicated to numerous species of fish, coral, and other marine life. 

Other parts of St. Croix offer chances to witness more undersea events, like the island’s north shore. Here you can find turtles, eels, starfish, and more. A quarter-mile from there are steep underwater cliffs that extend thousands of feet below the ocean’s surface. Now, that is something you don’t see every day. This is a major draw for diving enthusiasts!

Another must-see on St. Croix is the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. Their efforts focus on protecting endangered species of leatherback turtles. They secure the beach to welcome the turtles and allow them a safe place to nest. The nesting grounds are watched and safeguarded from April to September. Apart from this event, this part of the island remains untouched and undeveloped by humans during the rest of the year, making it the purest and authentic St. Croix experience. 

History enthusiasts will have plenty to explore if you pay a visit to the island’s west side. Here you’ll find Fort Frederiksted, a mid-eighteenth-century Danish masonry fort.

Visitors can also enjoy local art and culture at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts. The museum is an extension of the local talent from all of the islands across the Caribbean and brings them all in one place for everyone to enjoy.

There you have it, the Lagnappe Custom Interiors travel guide. These are just some of our favorite places in the USVI. Whether you are looking for a beach vacation, a mountain retreat, or even a staycation, make your getaway destination something to remember for years to come. Share your favorite places with us! We would love to hear where you’ve stayed and the memories you’ve made.

Outdoor Living
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Outdoor Living

Melanie Morris May 25, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Furnishings, Interior Design, Outdoor Living 0

Outdoor Living
Summer is a season of relaxation. Creating an outdoor living space that is both practical and luxurious requires finesse. From the planning stage to selecting furniture that will stand the test of time in a coastal climate, I am happy to share what I have learned with you. Coastal design has a beauty all its own that flows through all of my projects. I have collected a few of my writings below to aid you in crafting an outdoor living space that will make you feel at peace.

Let’s begin with the planning phase. Everyone’s vacation home serves a different purpose. There are lots of essential details to consider. How many people will be regularly staying? This question will impact how many beds or even rooms are needed. Is this a relaxing escape or a vibrant, entertaining home? This question will influence the size and location of the dining spaces. Will you be renting the space? This question will affect the types of linens you select. These are just a few of the crucial discussions you should have before deciding anything for your home. Allow me to put your mind at ease by discussing these questions and how to address them in my post. Discover more about the planning phase.

Outdoor Planning


We’ve discussed the planning, now let’s explore the most enjoyable part, the design phase. Designing your dream outdoor living area is a breeze if you consider five main elements: the seating, day beds, outdoor bars and kitchenettes, a design direction, and location. Each part has its own role to play, but being intentional in the design will allow it all to work together to form the ideal vacation home for your family. Discover more about how to create these elements of your home thoughtfully.

Outdoor Season
After a season of relaxation, clients love to think about what is next for their vacation home. Adding a few features can make a significant impact. I have collected a few of my favorite finds for outdoor living that are sure to make your space sing. These additions can be as simple as adding a lighting element to as sophisticated as adding your own pizza oven. Discover my favorites all gathered together.

Coastal Grilling


Living in a coastal home presents unique challenges for your home furnishings. The salty sea air, rain, and sun can all take a toll if you do not select pieces that are easy to live with, clean, and are simple to maintain. This article will help you confidently throw open your windows and breathe in the relaxing island life without fear. The secret is selecting the suitable materials for both indoor and out. Finishes like synthetic woven rattan, natural stone, and melamine dishware are all ideal additions to every design. Discover more pieces and materials to bring into your vacation home.

Daybed
An exceedingly popular item on client’s request list is the daybed-particularly the kind that hangs on your patio. They are a calming place to relax and soak in some sunshine or curl up with a cocktail whenever you’re ready for happy hour! I have collected a few of my favorite styles of daybeds to serve as inspiration for you. Whether you want yours hanging or closer to the pool to watch your little ones, you are sure to find some stylish yet comfortable inspiration. Discover refreshing daybeds.

Vacation

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Caning Classes
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The St. Thomas Historic Trust Caning Class

Melanie Morris May 14, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Interior Design 4

I headed downtown to the historic trust office early on a Saturday morning.  A Facebook post had raved about this caning class, so I had to find out more.  Having a deep love for hand-crafted and antique furniture meant that I would not let this opportunity pass me by.  I turned up, unannounced, at 8:00 a.m. on a Saturday. When I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised to find Pamela Montagut, along with a couple of ladies getting set up to work on their projects that day.  They were kind enough to share their projects and personal connections to the craft of Caning with me.

Caning Class
Caned Furniture

I love Caned furniture. Currently, it is having a moment in the world of design and home fashion. Of course, in our part of the world, it’s never gone out of style.  The open weave’s flexibility is comfortable to sit on and offers much-needed airflow in our hot climate.  The unique look of the square in a square pattern and natural material is a staple in Caribbean homes and has been for centuries.

St. Thomas Caning Class Pinterst

On the long and winding road of the historic trust, Pamela filled me in on how this class became a reality.  They began before the hurricanes in 2017, but the storms derailed the schedule.  Then once they were just about to start, the instructor, Kenneth “Duke” Richards, passed away.  At the time he was one of the last living people on St. Thomas who practiced this time-honored craft.  Another instructor had to be found.  Then the COVID-19 pandemic happened and changed the start date again!!  Ultimately the Department of Tourism and My Brothers Workshop jumped in to help make the program a reality.  The instructor travels over from St. Croix for the Saturday classes.  It’s been a journey and has really taken a whole village of people committed to keeping this alive in the Virgin Islands to make it happen.  This is one of the things that makes the community here in STT so special.  Many organizations and individuals have come together to preserve this art form and piece of local heritage. The story is so heartwarming and why I love living here.


Tell Your Story

Everyone participating in this class has their own unique story to tell and connection to the craft.  Michelle Taylor, for example, is a cousin of Kenneth Richards.  The craft has been in her family for many years. Now she is taking it up and doing restoration on antique chairs.  Another participant is originally from Philadelphia and remembers her grandfather doing caning work but never learned from him as a child.  The connections through craft in the room are a beautiful thing.


If you have not been to the Historic trust museum, I urge you to do so.  It’s a small unassuming little storefront on the waterfront and is so worth the time to visit.  They have a beautiful display of West Indian Antiques and offer historic tours of the town and Hassel island a couple of times a week.  The program needs funding to continue to the next phase. If you are a lover of handmade goods and antiques, as I am, and wish to support this program please consider a donation or membership here.

If you are interested in any of the caned products below, you can shop them here. 



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What Makes Caribbean Architecture

Melanie Morris April 27, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Interior Design, Outdoor Living, Window Treatments 0

Caribbean Architecture is known for many things. Like the island’s history, its influences go back centuries when different practices and design trends were utilized to accomplish what some modern-day technology has replaced and climate has impacted. Through it all, we are still able to walk through downtown Charlotte Amalie and see the signature signs of Caribbean Architecture in its most natural forms. I connected with my friend Kevin Qualls from Springline Architects to dig into more information on what architecture is like in the Caribbean. Kevin is a master in his craft and a board member of the St. Thomas Historical Trust, an organization dedicated to preserving St. Thomas’s history, sites, and culture. Kevin’s background and experience bring a unique perspective on what makes true Caribbean Architecture.

Caribbean Architecture


Caribbean Architecture as It Pertains to The Climate

Each structural and characteristic feature of the Caribbean and its buildings plays a large part in addressing issues like light, heat, airflow, and resistance to hurricanes.  

Historic Caribbean Architecture

 

  1. Historic Building Design Features

    Historic structures on the island have specific features that showcase a different time in an exotic place. Places like Annaberg Plantation Ruins on St. John have giant arched windows that open and flare out, while some other older buildings in downtown have thicker walls that tend to be wider at the bottom than the top of the building.

    Another unique structural element in many mass masonry buildings is larger-scale windows that are half the proportions of the walls.

    All of these details work together to help make living and interacting with the spaces more comfortable. Many structures are made out of stone and brick and stonework that are thick enough to hold themselves up and give excellent insulation, while high ceilings or open rafters help keep spaces cooler.

    Annaberg Plantation Ruins on St. John

  2. Today’s Relaxing Porches

    Another way we like to stay cool on the island is by relaxing in the shade. If it is a breezy day and you’re under a covered patio, you will be perfectly comfortable. If it’s a sunny and a decently blustery day, you will definitely want to find some shade. This is why covered porches are so popular in the Caribbean. Of course, with a covered porch comes larger overhangs for roofs and patios, making them susceptible to hurricanes.

    Kevin explains how the engineering of porches has evolved over the years and how we have learned to adapt after significant weather events. Porches are now commonly configured to be a separate structure from the home to protect the primary roof. The roof over the house’s interior is tied to the exterior of those walls, while the porch roof is then connected to that primary structure and is not as steep. This provides a beautiful yet functional and practical solution for any inclement weather.

    Caribbean Architecture as It Pertains to History and Location

    1. Window Trends and Designs

    Windows can sometimes be a tricky piece of the puzzle. Kevin expresses how we sometimes ask things of windows that are in theory contradictory. We want them to be able to give us those gorgeous island views but also keep wind and rain out. One window style that is very prominent in the VI is the Jallacie window style. Traditionally made from hardwood, the modern style with glass louvers is seen all over the island today.  They are large and open enough for great views and breeze but also keep out rain and pests.

    What Makes Caribbean Architecture

    2. Unique Island Materials

    What is also interesting and unique about Caribbean Architecture are the materials used to form the building structures. For example, yellow brick from St. Croix has become a hallmark of that island, while the blue granite of St. Thomas, which is what the island is literally made of has become a signature of both St. Thomas and St. John as you can see in the above photos from the Annaberg ruins. Let’s also not forget the Mahogany that used to grow everywhere here and still does but in smaller amounts, making its appearances something to behold and giving our homes that unique Caribbean feel.


    3. The Most Considerable Influence in Caribbean Architecture

    While there is a powerful blend of cultures in Caribbean architecture, many styles are borrowed, but there is a strong Spanish influence that can be seen through the many building designs. In other parts of the VI, you can also see the hidden gems of specific periods in the island’s history.


    99 Steps


    A great deal of ironwork was commissioned in New Orleans, which brings ties and Cajun nuances to the Caribbean as well as the Carolinas. The VI would not have been a US territory at that point, but all of this feeds into what is uniquely the Virgin Islands and makes the VI special and different from other Caribbean islands. VI pride is very real, and while we are Caribbean people, it’s important to note that each island is its own nation with its own story and perspective.

    The Governors Mansion
    There is so much incredible history behind St. Thomas and its architecture, and we support the preservation of all the things that make the Virgin Islands so special to so many who live and visit here.

    The St. Thomas Historical Trust honors and conserves the originality of St. Thomas that you can witness by enjoying tours of downtown or offshore excursions. Supporting organizations like the St. Thomas Historical Trust ensure that the authenticity and experience of St. Thomas can be enjoyed for generations to come. You can also show your support by visiting Kevin and his team on their website and by connecting with them via Facebook.

    We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about the background and connections that the VI has rooted in its iconic architecture and rich history. With the survival of Caribbean Architecture, the significant influences and inspiration will continue to provide the foundation for the VI and its architecture for many years to come. 
Island Style and Coastal Style Comparison
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Island Style Vs. Coastal Style And Some Characteristics Of Each

Melanie Morris April 13, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Furnishings, Interior Design 0

I was once at a conference and heard the fantastic Nate Berkus speak. He said, in the design business, you are only as good as your references. He wasn’t talking about what past clients have to say about working with you (although that’s important too!). He meant what are the various visual elements in the room referring to.  

 

Designers make references throughout the space, and together they tell a story. What story do we want the home to tell? Many factors influence that answer, from the client’s unique life experiences and lifestyle to the home’s architecture and location. How will we weave a visual representation that whispers to the homeowner and guests a subtle story behind what’s currently going on in the room?

Island Style and Coastal Style Comparison


Island Style

To understand Island style, you need to understand a little more about the region and the unique history. In the Caribbean, each little collection of islands is its own nation, and they all have their individual identity. The US Virgin Islands are American, and therefore we have an American take on lifestyle and décor. Many different countries have owned these islands over the years (there’s a whole course to discuss the details), but you can still see bits and pieces of those influences throughout the USVI. 

Island Style


So what are some unique VI visual references? 

  1. Dark Hardwoods like Mahogany
    Mahogany trees are not as prevalent as they used to be here, but they were prevalent in the past. The look of dark mahogany hardwood furniture and trims in homes is a definite indicator of island style.
  1. Louvers in Windows and Doors
    Locally referred to as Jalacies, these adjustable wood louvers are designed to allow the breeze to flow into the home.
  1. Caned Furniture
    These pieces were traditionally made by hand and are now enjoying a resurgence in popularity. The open weave of split rattan allows for a comfortable seat and breezy airflow.
  1. Island Color Schemes
    Color schemes tend to be influenced by our surroundings. Richer color pallets with hues ranging from palm leaf green to the vibrant tones of bougainvillea and hibiscus flowers are all very common and blend in nicely to the environment.

Island Style Vs. Coastal Style BlogCoastal Style

Coastal style, on the other hand, is informed primarily by the beach and the sea. The references here pay homage to long days spent boating and swimming in aqua seas. Coastal style references might point to the northeast’s Hamptons lifestyle, with the rattan and bright colors that are so popular in South Florida or the more modern laid-back aesthetic of the California coast. There is a crossover between the island and coastal styles. After all, the VI has more lovely beaches than you can count! So, the two do go hand in hand and blend well.

Coastal Rug

Some of the typical style references for coastal style are:

  1. Lighter Wood Tones
    We speak to driftwood and weathered docks with our wood tones and even use more weathered textures.
  1. Sea Grass
    Seagrass is a classic coastal material and a natural choice for rugs and appears as accent panels in cabinetry and as wallpaper.
  1. Coastal Color Schemes
    Color schemes focus on the sea and sites you can only get when you visit the beach. Preferred coastal color schemes include sand neutrals, navy blues, and shades of the turquoise sea.
  1. Iconic Décor
    Often times décor items and accessories are shaped to resemble shells, fish, and sailboats. We feel it’s possible to convey a coastal feel without being too obvious with these items!
  1. Casual Style
    Coastal rooms are usually styled in a more casual way than island-style homes and have a lighter look overall.

    Island Style Versus Coastal Style

    Whether you love island style, coastal style or you enjoy a mix of the two; there are so many different variations to fit your desired style. If you’re unsure about the story you’re trying to tell, give us a call. We can help you identify the references that speak to you and your family’s story. Let the translation you choose speak to your unique love of the islands and the shore and blend the various visual cues to tell your own personalized narrative.

Tile Design
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How To Layout Bathroom Tile in 7 Easy Steps

Melanie Morris March 30, 2021 Bathrooms, Beach / Caribbean, Color, Interior Design, Tips & Tricks 0

How to Layout Bathroom Tile in 7 Easy Steps

1. Start With the Basics

When we start a new bathroom design, we love to start with the tile.  There are so many options to choose from it can sometimes be hard to decide.

Since your tile is so permanent in the home and the labor is expensive, we want to be sure that our choices will do three things.

  1. Suit the architecture of the home
  2. Have some longevity in terms of style
  3. Serve the client well in terms of durability and ease of maintenance

If we have a client who dyes their hair at home in the shower, a limestone shower floor would be a disaster very quickly! We like to keep in mind that your lifestyle will have a direct impact on the wear and tear of your environment.

Make Groups

2. Make Your Tile Selections by Groupings

When it comes to creating a grouping of tiles that will come together and create a unique look, stick to the rule of three. This is an easy, foolproof way to get a great finished product without driving yourself crazy! The practice is basically this, choose three tiles that will pair well together.  

The three types of tile are:

  1. Floor tile
  2. Field tile
  3. Accent tile

The field tile is the one you use the most. It’s typically a solid color and textural piece. In comparison, the accent tile is the one with all the colors and adds personality to the room. I love the look above, and it’s such a simple design plan that utilizes very durable materials appropriate for a vacation home.

Bath Remodel
3. Consider the Size and Scale

Pay attention to scale.

The size of the tile you select matters, especially when it comes to creating meaningful layouts for your bathroom. Some patterns are just better suited to larger rooms and vice versa.

When you are looking at small tile samples in a showroom, it’s easy to forget that you will have a lot more of it once it’s installed in the space. To put it into perspective, you can break out the design into two different types of patterns. They are:

  1. Pattern 1 – The repetition of the pattern.
  2. Pattern 2 – The color of the actual piece of tile, which also includes the geometric pattern for the installation.

The combination of these two patterns can create an overly busy design very quickly.

If you have a small shower stall, you might want to stay away from larger format tile. If the installer has to make multiple cuts, the impact of the size and the pattern of the layout can get lost.

In a smaller space, go for either smaller-scale pieces or one big piece. We love the ultra-large porcelain slabs that are becoming increasingly available in sizes as large as 5 ft. X 10 ft.

In larger spaces, you may want to find ways to break up larger runs of tile. However, this doesn’t mean you need more tile options. Instead, try using more of the same thing in different ways. You can vary the direction or change the sizes in the same material to give a slight variation that is still refined yet elevated.

4. Get Creative

Mixing and matching different shapes can provide interest in the finished product. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect mix.

  1. Look for a tile collection you love and use multiple shapes within the same tile line or collection. With contrasting grout, the geometry of your mix will stand out beautifully.
  2. Use larger scale rectangles mixed with elongated hexagons. The two long and lean shapes can help emphasize the height of a room when needed.
  3. Create a frame! A great way to enjoy a bold color or mosaic and add detail to the room is to create a frame and then put the more exotic accent tile in the frame.  Some mosaics really do deserve to be treated as art! This might be done at the focal point of a back wall to a shower or possibly on the floor in a larger room. The frame will allow you to place and pattern mosaic into any field tile. Just be sure to buy a beautiful trim to set it off!

5. Get Precise

Tile IllustrationsTile Examples

The difference between an okay tile job and a magnificent tile job is in the details. Having the correct trim pieces is SO essential to getting that high-quality level of finish. I often start a tile search by looking at which collections will offer me all the trim pieces needed. 

Be sure to have a plan for every edge. Some great options to use are:

  1. Trim with a solid surface material that matches the countertop.
  2. Look for coordinating bullnose pieces, chair rail tiles, or pencil moldings.
  3. For modern designs, try Schluter trim pieces. They come in a variety of shapes for unique applications.

Tile Design

6. For Dramatic Effect

Grout Color

Once grouted, tiles can take on a completely different look, and the color of the grout can have a dramatic effect on the overall color tone. The contrast of the tile examples above has varying grades of grout that showcase different degrees of detail, and depending on the aesthetic of your bathroom; one may lend itself more to the space than the other. This is something to consider and play with before the whole install is complete.

7. Ensure Proper Planning

Selections
No matter where you are in your process, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to plan properly. Every detail matters, and as you can see, there are many when it comes to pulling off a flawless tile installation. Great planning will help you to be sure you have all the materials on hand when the installation starts and will help you to be able to get more accurate price quotes for the labor to install your dream bathroom.  Simple can be beautiful when thoughtfully planned and executed.

Are you ready to start your new bathroom design? Are you stuck trying to decide what options to go with for your island home? We are here to help! Contact us today so we can help you identify your exact tile selections for your dream oasis. The style of your interiors with durable materials will give you fulfilling days and a lifetime of joy.




Color Pool from a Photograph
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Color Palettes for Coastal Island Homes

Melanie Morris March 15, 2021 Beach / Caribbean, Color, Interior Design 16

The perfect color combination can turn an ordinary room into an extraordinary room. Color shapes the way we perceive a space. Do you want your room to have an energetic vibe, or do you want it to be your quiet place to relax?  There are countless color combinations out there. I advise my clients not to be afraid to take a risk and try something new in their vacation homes. This is the perfect place to embrace something a little different from your more permanent residence. 

You may have heard of the 60-30-10 color rule for decorating. This rule guides you to choose one color as 60% of the space (usually your wall color), a secondary color as 30% of the space (maybe an accent wall or a large rug) then the final 10% is the spicy pop of an accent color. Of course, rules are made to be broken, but this formula is a safe place to start if you find yourself a little hesitant. 

Color Palettes for Coastal Homes

 

INSPIRATION IS EVERYWHERE

When creating color plates for a room, I love to start with an inspiration piece. This can be a rug, a work of art, your favorite fabric, or even a colorful shirt!  It doesn’t matter what the inspiration is, as long as you love it, and it speaks to the overall feeling you are hoping to create in the room.

1. Pin-spiration

One of the easiest and most manageable ways of filtering through endless inspiration pieces is through Pinterest. I love to collect inspirational color palettes from all over the web and save them on my Pinterest boards. Pinterest is a useful tool to organize your thoughts and ideas for now or for later. By following accounts with similar interests as you, you can have a full feed of creativity. You can see some of our favorite hue selections here.

2. Wallpaper Hues

In the case of this coastal condo remodel, the wallpaper in the foyer was the inspiration piece for the color scheme throughout to entire home.

Wallpaper Hues

I love this choice because it invites all the colors in, and like a good party invitation, it sets the tone the minute you open the front door. Splashes of color combined with soft strokes of blues and a crisp white background bring a fresh and colorful union of elements. You can see more of this inspiration piece unfold here.

3. Design Seeds Color Palettes

Take the below Design Seeds image:

If you require some color inspiration, the Design Seeds site is another excellent resource. I love to use them as a library for extraordinary color combinations. How you put those combinations into action in your room is a whole different story!

To build a room around this image, I would start with the soft grey on the left as my wall color. You could shop for a deep-sea blue sofa, then add bright pink throw pillows.  This is a perfect example of how an image can inspire the design of a room. From there, layer in some textural neutrals, and you’d have a stylish living space.

4. Color Pool from a Photograph

What about the reverse situation? What if you have a room image and you’d love to know more about the colors there?  I have a lot of fun with the Sherwin Williams website.

You can upload a photo and select paint colors based on the image. You should always get a tester before going all-in with this method and painting your room, but it is a fun interactive guide to help get you started.

Color Pool from a Photograph

Here is a quick how-to on how to use the Sherwin Williams website. After you upload your image, you’ll see little circles populate that mark different color hues within your image. Drag the tiny spots around the photo to read the other shades, then add them to your final color palette. From here, you will be able to print a list of colors to try in your room based on an image that you love.

Sherwin Williams

5. Fabric Inspiration

Here is what happens when you create a room color palette around a piece of fabric. This Thibaut print has always been one of my favorites. 

Thaibaut

I can imagine a beautiful bedroom design based on this print!  I’d use the robin’s egg blue as the room paint color, then upholster a headboard with the fabric. I would add some neutral draperies with trim in the deep green and possibly some nightstands in the fresh spring green hue paired with a soft, comfy chaise lounge in the peachy shade on the far right. Girly, I know, and I’m not sure my husband would agree to such a room, however! You get the idea, though. Working off something like a piece of fabric that you can see and feel for yourself can spark your senses for even more creative color possibilities.

So the next time you are deciding on a color scheme for your space, take a moment to be inspired. Let your creativity take your interiors to a whole new world of color possibilities that support your life and celebrate what you love. If you need some guidance on color selection for your vacation home or your primary home, connect with us today. We would love to collaborate and be inspired with you.