The formula for a perfect summer retreat, according to Andy Grover and Dan Mazzarini, starts with three essentials: a view of the water, a cozy fireplace, and a sparkling pool. They ought to know-as a real estate consultant, Andy has seen his fair share of summer homes, and interior designer Dan, principal and creative director at BHDM, has worked his magic on more than a few coastal cottages.
Even so, when the New York City-based couple bought their getaway on Long Island’s North Fork, it was missing a major must-have: a pool. Luckily, the beach house came with a bucolic 1.2-acre plot that sits on a bluff more than 100 feet above the Long Island Sound. “We knew we’d be able to put in a pool eventually, so we took the plunge,” says Dan.
The duo didn’t break out the shovels right away.Instead, they dove headfirst into a renovation of the 1,500-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath coastal ranch-style home. “The house was all brown, both inside and out,” dan explains. “I wish it would have been ’60s mod, but it was 1970s gross,” adds Andy.
To undo the dated details, they bid farewell to shag carpeting, updated the floor plan, and painted everything-including the fireplace-white. Then they layA flip-top French dining table in the entry offers a spot to stash keys and mail. Above it, a large zinc mirror from local design shop Lumber + Salt reflects light into the space.
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Mirror: lumber + Salt
RELATED: 20 Dutch Door Ideas for an Entryway With Double the”I wanted a really luminous, airy feel, so I had him paint all the doors, I asked him to paint these chairs, too. Now they’re the centerpiece of the room.”
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Wall Paint Color: blank” rel=”nofollow”>Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore
Sofas: blank” rel=”nofollow”>Harbour
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Striped Rug: Woodard & Greenstein
RELATED: Cozy Living Rooms You’ll Want to Snuggle Up In Forever
a crisp white kitchen
Wall and Cabinetry Paint Color: Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore
RELATED: More Coastal Kitchen Ideas to Get Beach House Style Even If You’re Landlocked
A Light & Bright Dining room
Dining Chairs: Wayfair## A High Contrast Powder Room
Beall & Bell. The oversize die on top of the wood dresser was a gift from a friend. “He told us that it just felt like it belonged in this house,” says Dan.
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Headboard: “Sorrento” by Williams Sonoma
Art Prints: Art Star
RELATED:Wayfair Shower Curtain: Pottery BarnA pair of four-poster twin beds that Dan snagged at a local estate sale is a perfect fit for the guest room. There is just enough space between them for a vintage lamp atop a small painted table. “The art is a real scale play-I bought these vintage pieces [another hangs on the opposite wall] almost 10 years ago without anywhere to put them, so I hung them in our garage next to the car,” says Dan. “I finally found a home for them in here.”
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A Multi-Purpose ScrYears ago, Andy and Dan made an “insane” bid on a house in nearby Bellport, New York, based solely on its screened-in porch. When they were outbid, they realized they shouldn’t buy a home because of a porch, no matter how great it might be. But they did use that porch as inspiration for an addition that has become an extension of their interiors and is used daily. Pre- and post-dinner cocktails are sipped in the adjacent living space,which is furnished with a wicker sofa and chairs.
Creating a Coastal Oasis: Backyard Transformations for Relaxed living
The desire for a personal retreat within the comfort of home has surged in recent years. According to a 2024 Houzz study, over 45% of homeowners are planning renovations focused on outdoor living spaces, driven by a need for relaxation and enhanced functionality. Transforming a backyard into a tranquil oasis is no longer a luxury, but a sought-after element of modern living. This is precisely what one couple achieved, turning their property into a coastal haven centered around a stunning pool and thoughtfully designed outdoor amenities.
The Allure of Hydrangeas and Perimeter Planting
The foundation of their landscape design lies in creating a sense of enclosure and abundant bloom. Rather than a stark boundary, the homeowners opted to surround the entire yard with lush hydrangeas. This choice isn’t merely aesthetic; hydrangeas offer a prolonged flowering period, typically from early July to late august, providing consistent color and visual interest throughout the peak summer months. This is similar to how a well-placed perennial border can offer continuous blooms throughout the growing season, attracting pollinators and adding life to the garden. The effect is a soft, inviting perimeter that enhances privacy and creates a feeling of being enveloped in nature, perfectly framing picturesque sunsets.
Elevating the Outdoor Experience: The Addition of an outdoor Shower
Beyond the pool, the couple prioritized enhancing the overall outdoor experience with practical yet luxurious additions. A key element of this was the installation of an outdoor shower. This isn’t a new concept – outdoor showers have been popular in coastal regions for decades – but the couple added a unique touch: a window overlooking the pool. This clever design detail allows bathers to enjoy the view while showering, further blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor enjoyment. It’s a feature that transforms a simple post-swim rinse into a refreshing and visually appealing experience.
expert Design: Partnering with a Landscape Architect
Achieving a cohesive and functional outdoor space frequently enough requires professional expertise. In this case, the homeowners collaborated with landscape architect Paul Keyes to bring their vision to life. A skilled landscape architect can navigate zoning regulations, optimize space utilization, and ensure the design complements the existing architecture and natural surroundings. Choosing the right professional is crucial; look for someone with a portfolio that aligns with your aesthetic and a proven track record of triumphant projects.
Find Inspiration: Exploring Coastal Home Designs
Looking for further inspiration? Numerous resources showcase stunning coastal home designs. Exploring these examples can spark new ideas and help you refine your own vision for creating a relaxing and inviting outdoor space. From minimalist designs to lush, tropical landscapes, the possibilities are endless.