The Vision: A Modern Farmhouse-meets-Beachy Retreat

Our clients, who live in the beaches neighborhood of Toronto, wanted to infuse their 100-year-old house with a modern farmhouse-meets-beachy vibe. They sought a home that would exude a relaxed coastal atmosphere while incorporating elements of rustic charm.

To achieve this vision, Maggie Burley, Interior Designer at Two Birds Design, carefully curated a design concept that struck the perfect balance between beachy and farmhouse aesthetics. The goal was to create a space that feels inviting, serene, and connected to its beachside surroundings.

Inspiring beachy decor

Coastal-inspired living room

Design Elements: Embracing Beachy Vibes with a Farmhouse Twist

Incorporating beachy elements into a farmhouse aesthetic required careful selection of materials, colors, and furnishings. Maggie focused on bringing in natural textures like rattan, jute, and weathered wood to create a coastal feel. To maintain the farmhouse charm, she added vintage items, rustic light fixtures, and shiplap walls.

The color palette consisted of soft neutrals inspired by the sand, sea, and sky. Shades of white, beige, and blue dominated the space, creating a calming and airy atmosphere. Accents of sea green, coral, and sandy brown were added to evoke the beachy vibe.

Another essential design element was the incorporation of ocean-inspired art, shells, and driftwood. These subtle touches added a whimsical beachy charm, making the house feel like a true coastal retreat.

Natural textures and vintage accents

Ocean-inspired artwork

Creating Open and Airy Spaces: Maximizing Natural Light

To enhance the beachy atmosphere, it was crucial to maximize natural light within the house. Large windows were installed to flood the space with sunlight and offer beautiful views of the surrounding beach landscape. Light curtains in sheer fabrics were chosen to maintain privacy while allowing soft light to filter through.

In terms of furniture arrangement, the goal was to create open and airy spaces that invite relaxation. The placement of furniture was carefully considered to optimize the flow and maximize the visual space. Minimalist and streamlined furniture pieces were chosen to achieve a modern farmhouse look.

Final Touches: Embracing the Beachy Lifestyle

To truly embrace the beachy lifestyle, outdoor spaces were transformed into serene retreats. A patio area was created with comfortable seating, planters filled with native beach plants, and a cozy fire pit for chilly evenings. The backyard was transformed into a lush coastal garden with a hammock and a peaceful meditation area.

Incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly elements was also important in the design process. From reclaimed wood furniture to energy-efficient appliances, every effort was made to reduce the environmental impact of the renovation.

The end result is a 100-year-old house that seamlessly blends modern farmhouse elements with beachy vibes. It's a space that captures the essence of coastal living while honoring the history and character of the original house.