Amanda Nisbet in Coastal Living

Coastal Living Magazine keeps getting better and better. I must say, I'm starting to look forward to finding it in my mailbox almost as much as I would Domino (almost). The March edition is packed with images that had me salivating- tons of color, bold prints, unique furnishings, and, of course, beautiful coastal images. (Is it summer yet?!)

The featured Long Island beach home designed by New York-based Amanda Nisbet was no exception. Her use of bold colors, rustic textures, and refined whimsy make this home work both functionally and aesthetically. It looks like a home where sandy feet and wet bathing suits are welcome, but not at the expense of style; and that's my kind of beach house. 

Island Design

The February edition of Coastal Living features the beautiful Bahamian home of Marcie Bond, the owner of a clothing shop (Marcie Bond Resort Clothing) in New Providence Island. Each image had me both wanting to hop a plane for the islands and redecorate my house- with lots of color. 

Bond's Caribbean cottage was built in 1963 and needed lots of work when she and her family moved in. But, instead of tearing it down in favor of new construction (where's the fun in that?), Marcie restored the house to its original layout and retained many windows, doors, and other distinctive features. She also decorated with mid-century furnishings, fabrics and accessories as well as local art, giving the home an authentically vintage Bahamian look. Her decor is not only gorgeous, but it's livable, cheerful, and a smart nod to the home's original charm. 

After reading this article, I don't know what I want more- a trip to the Bahamas or that fabulous pink & brown China Seas canopy over my bed!

all images via Coastal Living