Finding Inspiration in Key West
As an interior designer based in Long Beach Island, NJ, I am constantly seeking fresh inspiration to bring back to my coastal clients. While the Jersey Shore has its own charm with its classic beach cottages, airy neutrals, and nautical elements, sometimes a change of scenery is exactly what’s needed to spark new ideas. That’s why I recently took a design-driven getaway trip to Key West, where the island’s vibrant energy, historic architecture, and tropical influences provided endless inspiration.
Color Palettes from Paradise
Key West is a painter’s dream with its lush landscapes, turquoise waters, and pastel-hued homes. Walking along Duval Street or through the residential enclaves of Old Town, I was captivated by the charming conch houses in shades of coral, mint green, and buttery yellow. These colors—so different from the soft whites and blues often found in Jersey Shore interiors—made me consider incorporating more playful, tropical tones into my coastal designs back home. A pop of Key West coral on an accent wall or seafoam green cabinetry could add an unexpected yet refreshing twist to a traditional beach house.
Timeless Architectural Details
Key West’s historic homes feature architectural elements that feel both timeless and effortlessly coastal. Intricate custom trim, wraparound porches, and louvered shutters add personality and functionality to homes built for island living. I couldn’t help but think how these details could enhance properties on LBI. Adding custom woodwork, reclaimed materials, or even a decorative porch railing could infuse homes with a bit of that Key West charm while still maintaining a Jersey Shore sensibility.
Layered Textures and Natural Materials
Another takeaway from my time in Key West was the abundant use of natural materials—weathered wood, rattan, and breezy linens that create a relaxed, lived-in feel. The island’s interiors embrace a layered approach, mixing textures and patterns in a way that feels organic and unpretentious. Translating this to my LBI designs means incorporating more woven elements, cane furniture, and driftwood-inspired finishes to add warmth and depth to coastal homes.
Bringing the Tropics to the Jersey Shore
While Key West and Long Beach Island have distinct styles, there’s a beautiful opportunity to blend elements from both locations. Infusing a bit of tropical vibrancy into Jersey Shore interiors doesn’t mean going full-on tiki hut; instead, it’s about borrowing key elements—lively hues, organic textures, and architectural details—and integrating them in a way that complements the relaxed elegance of LBI.
Travel is one of the best ways to refresh creativity, and my time in Key West has left me brimming with new ideas. Whether it’s a bold splash of color, a handcrafted design detail, or an unexpected material, I can’t wait to bring these influences into my future projects. If you’re looking to infuse a bit of vacation-inspired magic into your Jersey Shore home, let’s connect and bring that island vibe to your space!
