KDH loves to create little design stories with shells in our Hamptons home. I add them to bookcases, my master bathroom vanity, a hutch in the guest bath [pictured below], and mix them in with groupings of frames. The organic colors, textures, and varieties of shells make each one special, not to mention the memories they conjure when you think about the fun beach day, or vacation you were on when you found them!

Our Hamptons beaches are sprinkled with thousands of pretty collectible shells waiting to come home with you, but it’s fun to add in white starfish, a nautilus shell, or cool piece of coral that you won’t find on the shores of the East End. Blooming Shells in Sag Harbor is my favorite shop for chic sea treasures. Sort through a basket of sand dollars, or get inspired by the gorgeous displays that are staged throughout the store.  Check out some of my favorite shell collections in our home below:

 

 

Got a bunch of shells at home, but don’t know how to incorporate them into your home decor? Here are some great, easy tips from Better Homes and Gardens on how to decorate your Hamptons Home with your favorite shells:

1. To show off a shapely shell, pour sand into a glass cylinder vase. Arrange the conch to call attention to its natural beauty. Stand the vase on its own or rest another shell or two against the base.

2. Large shells are perfect to display in a bathroom. Use a large bowl-shaped shell filled with a variety of shells and soaps, then topped with a pretty starfish.

3. Large shells also work, individually displayed,  as attractive as fine sculpture. Look for perfect pieces that will sit flat or be propped up on a stand or pedestal.

4. A mantel laden with shells brings a nautical touch into a room. Adorning a fireplace mantel with your favorite shells is a great way to infuse something personal into your space.

5. Shells appear in a wide range of neutral tones including white, beige, tan, and brown. Display their variety in an arrangement — piled high with texture and interest in clear glass vases.

6. A bookcase provides the perfect display for shell collecting. White shells look stunning set against a dark wood backdrop, while blue hardcover books provide a colorful contrast.

 

 

*Blooming Shells in Sag Harbor[below] is KDHamptons top resource for creating sea inspired design elements at home: 11 Washington St  Sag Harbor; (631) 725-9504

















 

 

*For more great tips go to Better Homes and Gardens website: http://www.bhg.com/decorating/seasonal/summer/seashell-style/?rb=Y#page=1