Nothing says summer like nautical stripes, whether it’s on cushions, drapery, pillows or outdoor awnings. Stripes are always in style, but this year, they are especially popular, and particularly in Virginia and other coastal areas. We love stripes combined with white furnishings—it looks so sharp and clean. Striped upholstery pieces also look great with wicker and other furniture made from natural sources. Don’t want to make the commitment with cushions? Add a few striped pillows to bring some visual interest to the room and stay on-trend.
White on white
For Virginia beach properties, white on white is a beautiful look that’s crisp and cool. White blinds and shades make rooms look larger and airy, and evoke a breezy feeling. For a great cottage look, consider roman shades in a white textural fabric. They bring a rich and subtle softness to rooms that can’t be duplicated with other types of blinds or shades. Classic white bed linens make rooms look inviting and restful and are a designer’s favorite choice for guest rooms. To make your guests feel even more at home, provide a pitcher and glass for water, a luggage rack, fluffy white robe and a basket of fresh towels (don’t forget the beach towels!)
Shutters
Plantation shutters are really the ultimate summery-looking window treatment. They remind us of the beach homes in Key West and other island retreats. But even inland homes in Virginia will look cheerier and more updated year-round with shutters. They are an investment, but one that will enhance the long-term value of your home. People like shutters because they are versatile, and require no other window treatment unless you want to add a top treatment or drapery. Many shutter manufacturers offer them in high-quality faux wood composites that are more durable than real wood shutters, and more affordable.