Casual Decor

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I’m in an enviable position because I get to collect all the ideas I have for our new home in Nicaragua and our studio we’ll build next year. It’s like planning not one, but two weddings!

If I had to define my style, it would be ultra casual. As in, let the dogs sleep on the bed and sofa, soft comfy couches covered in couches, hammocks tied to trees, walk around barefoot, live at the beach kind of casual.

The best part? Both houses will have a focus on living space that seamlessly integrates with the outdoors.  The living, dining and kitchen spaces in Nicaragua traditionally open up to big courtyards, some with wading pools and fountains, and our studio will have one side made up completely of glass and doors that open up to a big porch and courtyard.

This week’s newsletter from Better Homes and Garden was definitely what I needed right now. It was full of casual living inspiration, including a slideshow on outdoor dining spaces. Score!

Here are some of my favorites…

Suggestion: Add natural rugs to enhance the casual feel.

Suggestion: Use salvaged furniture to create casual outdoor dining.

Suggestion: Use armoires instead of closets. They’re easy to find and customize.

Suggestion: Build an arbor to create shade.

Suggestion: Create your own secret garden! Wouldn’t this be perfect around a small pool?

Suggestion: Missed the chandelier craze at your wedding. Get one for your porch!
Side Note: This is SO my mom’s style!

Suggestion: Mix and match furniture. Matched sets inspire formality. We do this on a regular basis, and is perfect if you’re a thrift store/flea market lover like me.

Off to find colors I love…

All images property of Better Homes and Gardens