Our latest interior design focus follows the overall theme for this issue by seeking inspiration for properties near beaches, harbours or other waterside locations.
Living in close proximity to water allows for fresh breezes and expansive views, all of which can be maximised by creative interior design. Ian Paine Construction and Design is a full-service interior design firm and member of the Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia. The company’s project manager, Krista Paine, is an award-winning interior designer with over 10 years’ experience. “Being the proud owner of a coastal residence may feel like a gift bestowed amongst the luckiest,” she says. “However, with interiors that include strategic design elements, simplistic elegance and a place for essential relaxation, any home can push the boundaries and feel like an oasis. This is regardless of whether the residence is waterfront, water view, or miles away from the coast.
“As designers, we must not assume our clients know what they want and it is our job to read between the lines. This is most important in coastal design. Whether our clients are looking for a cosy cabin or a luxuriously spacious manor, the intent will always remain the same – deliver them a design they’re not aware is possible and as a result, significantly improve their quality of life.”
Krista advises that the ultimate coastal interior must take advantage of the view at all costs. “This can essentially be achieved by minimising the requirement for elements obscuring the view. As a result, our clients feel weightless from the moment they walk through the door to looking ‘through’ a window, rather than ‘at’ a window.
“It may be common knowledge that coastal design requires bringing the outside in, which can be achieved by analysing the natural surroundings – textures and colours, and pulling a similar colour palette and adding some essential fixtures to create a comparable haven. However, I challenge the task of bringing the inside out. By carrying the flooring outwards to a patio with slabs mounted on pedestals to reach the desired height, creates a cohesive connection between the two spaces and truly creates the sensation of living ‘in’ the view.
While windows help bring sunlight in, Krista believes that the true desire must be to pull your eye outdoors. “Vaulted ceilings combined with angled windows never let your eye rest until you’re staring out towards the sky in complete bliss,” she says. “Although we have been honoured to design a multitude of design styles that ‘frame’ a jaw dropping water view, the ultimate goal will continue to be to design an oasis that radically creates innate happiness.”
