Let's Go To The Beach.

What's the first cardinal rule in designing a beach house?  It has to be relaxed!  Beach houses should be a place where you can kick back and relax.  Nothing too precious!  It's meant for living in shorts and flip flops.

This all white kitchen gets quirky pops of color from the backsplash and cabinetry.  The dark tiled floor appears forgiving of the dirt and debris that surely is brought in.

What's the second rule in designing a beach house?  It has to have an open, airy and breezy feel.  Nothing too stifling!

This airy family room is the perfect place to relax with inviting friendly furniture, a natural color palette and plenty of open space.

Lots of white abounds in Darryl Carter's Palm Beach house.  The shot of dark turquoise on the table is reminiscent of a refreshing spash of water.

Carolyn Espley-Miller's beach house in Carpenteria, California is both refresing and comfortable.  The rough textures on the furniture make them appear to have been knocked around in the sea.  These rough textures are juxtaposed against a sleek white framework.  The color scheme in the room is one of sea and sand, an extension of the outside.

The wooden blinds, striped rug and rustic headboard all add to that essential textural element in a beach house bedroom.

Who can forget this charming Hamptons beach house in "Something's Gotta Give" with Diana Keaton and Jack Nicholson?  While watching the movie, I couldn't help swooning over the impeccably designed beach house that she spent most of the movie in.

This fresh airy beach house is both modern and welcoming.  The color palette mirrors the outside, once again bringing the outdoors in.  I love the look and functionality of the slipcovered furniture, as well as how the dark floor grounds the entire room and keeps it from floating away.

 A breathtaking view is invaluable!  Along with the view are doors that swing open to let the fresh air in and lots of glass to maximize exposure to the outside elements.

This elegant beach house family room is clean and simple.  A few striking features, such as the modern painting and light fixture, elevate the design.