Living Room

Susan’s interpretation is that the decor doesn’t always have to be beachy with a capital B to instill that relaxed, calming vibe everyone wants by the water. “There isn’t a theme here, but there is a respect for the surroundings,” she says. In the living room, light and airy sky blues, creamy whites, sandy taupes, and driftwood grays are tempered with an occasional shot of earthy brown for an ethereal yet grounded mix.

For the furnishings, Susan chose pieces scaled to suit the large room and its 18-foot ceilings without overcrowding the open area directly across from the dining room. For example, she paired a long, low sofa with two soaring column-based floor lamps but, instead of a space-hogging coffee table, opted for a pair of smaller pieces that easily can be moved during parties.