When On Vacation: Design Inspo

This is what happens when an interior designer goes on a girls trip in the most beautiful little beach town ever.

If you know me, you know I love to travel, and this year is packed with adventures! I recently got back from a girls' trip to Florida, and it was an absolute blast. It completely refilled my cup—I came back feeling refreshed and creatively inspired. So, what did I do to feel so relaxed, you ask? Well, I swam, soaked up the sun on the beach, enjoyed delicious meals out, and indulged in some shopping—you know the drill. But my absolute favorite part? Stumbling upon the stunning art and architecture that was all around us. This is why I love traveling—the world is full of inspiration! This week, instead of focusing on LWD designs, I’m showcasing some photos of beautiful homes that caught my eye. I hope they inspire you as much as they did me.

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As I approached this space, I was immediately drawn in—it was absolutely captivating. Just look at that ceiling! The dark color draws your eyes upward, allowing you to fully appreciate the light fixture and the stunning view of the pool beyond it. The chandelier hangs gracefully above a large ceramic bowl on a gorgeous white table. It’s all very glamorous, exuding a regal, monochrome vibe reminiscent of Kim Kardashian’s infamously beige style. But this! This is more my cup of tea.

The abstract artwork on the left, though not clearly visible in the photo, adds to the luxurious feel that this design aims to evoke. It was almost too inviting, though, because I found myself accidentally walking into someone’s courtyard—oops! My husband sometimes worries that I’m overstepping, but hey, I’m just a girl who loves great design! I’m sure the owners would understand (or at least I hope so!).

As you continue through the space, you can see how the pool is integrated within the courtyard—take notes people! I wish I could have gotten a tour of the home. It was just stunning.

Two words: blue shutters. At first glance, the architecture might appear ordinary, but upon closer inspection, the attention to detail here is impeccable. The combination of the gorgeous white smooth stucco with the delicate pale blue shutters is simply breathtaking. As the windows reflect the sky, the whole scene takes on a mesmerizing monochromatic aesthetic. With the backdrop of the palm trees, you can practically feel the salty breeze just looking at this photo.

What truly sets this design apart is the choice of the stone sidewalk. Its natural irregularity, along with the lush greenery and the winding path, adds a sense of organic charm to the landscape. It’s a departure from the usual rigid landscaping, inviting you to wander and explore.

They serve as a tantalizing glimpse into coastal living, fueling my imagination as I dream of designing a beach house. Perhaps nestled in the idyllic surroundings of...the Hamptons? Not like its my dream project or anything.

Again with the colored shutters—I love them! The pink is so whimsical and adds a cheery touch to an otherwise plain exterior. The combination of pink and green is so pretty and gives you a dose of serotonin as you walk by. The plants growing around the doorway are perfect, framing the entrance and adding a natural, welcoming vibe to the overall design.

Check out that arched doorway you can see down the way. This detail adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. The mix of window shapes and archways creates a dynamic and engaging facade that invites you to take a closer look. Each element, from the shutters to the greenery, works together to create a cohesive and delightful aesthetic.

The combination of windows and archway shapes not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows for a play of light and shadow, adding depth and dimension to the structure. It’s a design that’s both fun and captivating, making you want to explore every nook and cranny.

Talk about charm! Before I knew it, my phone was capturing a photo of this stunning blue door. The cutout design is reminiscent of the bathroom cabinets in the Coeur d'Alene Lake House. This beautiful blue door is tall, skinny, shuttered, and perfectly arched, adding an elegant touch to the exterior.

What really caught my eye was how the door is complemented by a gorgeous plant attempting to cover up that ugly drain pipe. It adds a touch of nature and charm to the setting.

I would love to incorporate a fun blue door like this into one of my designs someday. It’s these little details that spark my creativity and keep the inspiration flowing. Who knows, maybe a stunning blue door will be the next feature in my future projects. The inspiration is definitely flowing!

As I admired the exterior of this stunning white beach house, I was immediately captivated by its modern new construction. The mini pergolas over the garage doors add a charming touch, blending functionality with style. This home is a perfect fusion of nautical elements with a mix of round and rectangular windows, and the two-story windows are a true showstopper.

Multiple screened porches offer serene spots to enjoy the coastal breeze, while the insane attention to detail is evident in every corner. The landscaping is just as impressive, with lush greenery perfectly complementing the sleek architecture. And I can only imagine the pool hidden behind that fence—it's sure to be a luxurious oasis. This beach house is a dream come true, combining elegance and modernity with coastal charm.

The blue shutters are back, and I am not upset about it! This balcony caught my eye immediately. I love the functionality of the shutters and their creative design. The blue paint adds a feminine touch to the overall look; without it, the design would be utilitarian and completely boring. The balcony brings the entire building to life, making it the focal point.

The plants around the wooden walkway adds a scenic touch, with greenery perfectly framing the path. It invites you to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

The whole scene almost gives off a Mamma Mia vibe with its vibrant colors and relaxed, inviting atmosphere. It’s charming and picturesque, transforming the space into a dreamy escape. The attention to detail, from the shutters to the landscaping, creates a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality. It's a perfect example of how thoughtful design can elevate a space, making it not just a place to live, but a place to love.

What a charming outdoor entry! This fence and door immediately caught my attention, and I had to take a photo for future inspiration. The design of this door is very similar to a shape I would choose for a decorative object in my own projects. I love how funky and unique it is while still maintaining a simple elegance. The door is designed with a large opening in the middle, allowing you to see through into the space and giving a glimpse of what lies beyond. It adds an element of curiosity and invites you to explore further.

That's all, folks! Thanks for coming along and reading about the architectural gems I stumbled upon. Wrapping up this architectural adventure has been a blast. From those adorable blue shutters to the quirky door designs, each find has fueled my creative fire. Now, as I ponder these discoveries, I'm reminded of the endless design possibilities out there. Whether it's a coastal oasis or an urban retreat, beauty is everywhere.

This journey has been more than just sightseeing; it's been a wellspring of inspiration for future designs. I can already envision incorporating elements from these finds into my upcoming projects. And of course, the dream project of a beach house in the Hamptons—these discoveries have only heightened that aspiration.Thanks for reading! I hope you've found some inspiration along the way.

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Xoxo,

Lexi