2011 Coastal Living Idea House comes to Virginia

If you're in the area and looking for an interesting way to fill yet another rainy day, consider a trip to Norfolk to check out this year's Coastal Living "Idea House". It's open to the public (for a $10 entry fee) through November 27.

I have not been to see it myself. Previewing the pictures online, I can see that the nautical-themed decor is just not contemporary enough for my taste. (It could at best be described as "transitional".) With their handsome subway tiles and craftsman inspired cabinetry, the two kitchens (one for the main house, one for the guest cottage) were the only things that really caught my eye...

However, my friend Mark went to see it, and although his tastes also run toward modern, he nonetheless came away feeling he had picked up some good ideas for his home improvement and decorating projects. So you just might find some good ideas here yourself.

Or take the easy way out like I did, and just check out the pictures online. You can also see photos from Coastal Living's prior idea houses.

The 2010 house, for example, is slightly more contemporary and features soothing color palettes inspired by driftwood, sand, and oyster shells. The Craftsman-esque house also boasts pleasing outdoor spaces such as this one...

Whichever route you take, have fun exploring!