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Beach-House Bathrooms, Part 2

Furnishings
The textures and patterns of the seashore - as well as its subtle colors - should be reflected in the furnishings of the beach-house bathroom. Learn from nature and balance smooth and rough surfaces: tiles, porcelain, and painted wood with crunchy sisal and seagrass matting, containers and wicker baskets. Use towels to introduce an accent color or pattern - choose harmonious blends of sandy yellows, ochers and browns, or blues, turquoise, and aquas - or introduce a nautical note with navy and white.

Curtains and window blinds are an ideal way of introducing a splash of a theme color or pattern, or emphasizing a mood. They can be part of a coordinated scheme - based on marine motifs and stripes, for example - or you can create a romantic mood with billowing muslin or voile.

Atmospheric lighting is a must; choose a bulkhead-style fixture in white or metal, or a traditional fisherman's lantern. Add distressed wood wall sconces and introduce the smell of the sea with scented candles.

If space permits, choose simple items of furniture - a chest of drawers, cupboard, or cabinet will provide extra storage, while a small chair is always useful. Mellowed pine, a colorwash, or a distressed paint finish will conjure up driftwood, weathered fishing boats, and storm-aged beach huts. A wooden crate is easily transformed into makeshift "beach-combed" shelves - ideal for displays of seashore treasures. Use shells, driftwood, and sea-smoothed pebbles to trim shelf edges or to embellish a plain mirror frame - with a hot glue gun these projects are quick and easy.

Details
The seashore theme is rich and popular, so there is plenty of choice when it comes to the finishing flourishes. Look for objects and details that combine beauty with practicality.

Small touches can provide visual clues to your decorating inspiration - little wooden boats, starfish, and seashells, for example. Look in toy shops, gift shops, and even the toiletry departments of big stores for objects with a seashore theme.

You can also improvise. Driftwood may have a pleasing sculptural quality - display it with the same care you would give a work of art, or select specimens to create a driftwood towel bar, curtain rod, or mirror frame. Collect small smooth-patterned pebbles to make a mosaic-style table top, or to insert between rows of tiles. Add rope trims, cork floats, and shells to curtain headings or tie backs, and take every opportunity to create a sensual, marine atmosphere featuring aqua-colored bath salts and scented oils.

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