On a tranquil island in Southwest Florida rests a stately, century-old home. It’s been a famous vacation destination for some of America’s most prominent families, and not only does it embody the idea of a seaside retreat, but it takes you back in time.
As with any décor theme, certain materials are widely associated with Old Florida homes. Bamboo, rattan, seagrass and wicker go hand in hand with The Gasparilla Inn & Club. One of the best ways to find this furniture is by scouring flea markets, thrift stores or resale websites. You can often score vintage pieces for a fraction of their original cost, and their age will only add to your décor’s authenticity.
They’re everywhere at the Inn because nothing brightens up a place like gorgeous greenery. Depending on where you live, you can grow live palms or fiddle-leaf fig trees in your own home. Orchids generally make good indoor plants as well. And if your green thumb has yet to sprout, you can still display large fake leaves like split-leaf philodendron in oversized vases.
Trade geometric prints and traditional Oriental patterns for neutral tones and raw textures. Keeping it natural is key, so stick to simple, natural-fiber area rugs made of seagrass, jute or similar material.
Painted brick exudes classic, airy Old Florida throughout the Inn. Freshen up your fireplace with a coat (or three) of semi-gloss white paint to give your space a touch of elegance. Then the real fun begins – styling your mantel.
Explore a combination of shells and seaglass displayed in apothecary jars, some of the plants and leaves mentioned above, framed drawings of coral and tropical botanicals, plus mirrors, lanterns and candles. You can also take a page right out of the Inn’s book and fill a non-operating fireplace with shells.
Along with hand-painted murals, wallpaper is a signature element of The Gasparilla Inn & Club’s décor. For the average homeowner, committing to wallpapering an entire room is a lot to ask – especially when cost and time are factored in.
Instead, opt for creating a single accent wall with a light, botanical pattern (true to the Inn’s style) or a bolder, darker design (if you want to shake things up). Wallpaper has become a particularly popular trend in bathrooms, so you can always start small.
Take these decorating ideas and make them your own – or hang out at The Gasparilla Inn & Club for a bit and discover more about Boca Grande, FL.
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