22 Ideas for Nautical Home Decor

On a recent visit, B+C's VP of Content, Ali Ives, and I wandered into Somme and were instantly smitten. Imagine cottagecore with depth, where antique treasures meet bold, layered styling that feels both timeless and unexpected.

Francesca is a master at crafting vintage-inspired spaces with a distinct, modern POV. Here, she shares insights on her design philosophy, her latest collaborations, and her stunning transformation of a $24 million estate now on the market.

B+C: How would you define your aesthetic?

Francesca: I’d define my aesthetic as eclectic, nostalgic, and unexpected. It’s about mixing eras, textures and patterns in a way that feels curated and collected over time — like stepping into a space with history and soul.

B+C: How do you make a space feel one-of-a-kind?

Francesca: I love designing spaces that have depth and a bit of tension, whether it’s a balance of feminine and masculine, vintage and modern, or soft and bold. To make a space personal, I lean into unique, one-of-a-kind pieces — antiques, art with a story, textiles that feel lived-in. I want it to feel like someone’s life has unfolded there, not like a staged set.

B+C: What's the strangest or most surprising source of inspiration you've ever drawn from?

Francesca:I love wandering through European flea markets, where every object has a history, or getting lost in an old city and noticing the way time has shaped its architecture. Even something as simple as the tilework in a tiny café or the way laundry hangs between buildings can spark an idea. LA still influences me in the way it blends so many cultures and eras, but traveling pushes me to see design through a different lens — less polished, more lived-in, always with a story to tell.

B+C: What is your design pet-peeve?

Francesca: Anything that feels too sterile or overly "designed" with no personality. I’m also so over the idea that everything has to be beige to be timeless — give me color, give me texture, give me something with character!

B+C: You recently staged and styled a 6-bed, 9-bath Spanish-Mediterranean Bel Air Estate that just hit the market for $24M. What were your design goals for this Bel Air project, which leans into the more neutral territory?

Francesca: Our goal was to use our furniture and décor to enhance the home’s Spanish-Mediterranean elegance while introducing a sense of modern livability. We wanted every piece to feel intentional — respecting the architecture while making the space feel fresh, inviting, and effortlessly luxurious.

Francesca: To achieve this, I partnered with home decor brand Olive Ateliers and leaned into organic textures and warm, neutral tones. Soft linen upholstery, sculptural wood accents, and vintage-inspired statement pieces brought depth and a sense of history, ensuring the interiors felt collected rather than staged.

Francesca: In spaces like the living and dining areas, we focused on balancing grandeur with intimacy — placing oversized, plush seating to emphasize comfort while layering in antique and contemporary elements to create visual intrigue. The use of ceramic vessels, textured textiles, and aged metals further complemented the home’s natural materials.

Francesca: For the bedrooms, we aimed for elevated serenity, incorporating soft, layered bedding and curated accent furniture to create a retreat-like atmosphere.

Francesca: Overall, the staging was designed to bridge the past and present, celebrating the home’s timeless craftsmanship while making it feel approachable and effortless for modern living.

B+C: You recently worked with designer Amr Samaha of Samaha Studio on his latest project, an eco-conscious ranchette in Beverly Hills. He said he pulled heavily from his Egyptian background, citing the mashrabiya-inspired front door as an example of the textures and tones of historic Cairo. "Every decision, from materials to layout, was made with the intention to tell a cohesive story," he said. How did you stage the home to complete the story?

Francesca: For the Beverly Hills project at 1300 Shadybrook Drive, our aim was to stage the home in a way that accentuated its contemporary architecture and designer fixtures while creating an inviting and aspirational atmosphere for potential buyers.

In the living room, we placed a plush, earth-toned seating arrangement to complement the home's incredible steel fireplace and built-in cabinetry. To add a little extra warmth and character to the living room I added these gorgeous Myrtle Accent Chairs from Arhaus that I felt really elevated the space.

Francesca: In the dining room I wanted it to feel really funky and eclectic so we added some really fun sculptural dining chairs from Neue Maison. We brought in some incredible art by CLEW and Kader Boly that really amplify the appeal of the home.

Francesca: For the bedrooms, we aimed to create serene retreats by using soft, layered bedding and understated decor while still infusing some pops of color. I wanted the bedrooms to provide a sense of luxury while still feeling like cozy and warm.

Francesca: Throughout the home, we utilized accessories such as ceramic vases, greenery, and area rugs to add depth and cohesion to the overall design. Our goal was to present a lifestyle that potential buyers could envision themselves enjoying, thereby enhancing the home's appeal.

Follow Francesca Grace Home for more design inspiration!

Not sure how to describe your home aesthetic? Take cues from these stunning spaces in Defining Style, which comes out on March 18, 2025. Plus add the book to your coffee book collection for more design style inspiration.

Here are all the trending interior design styles you need to know for 2025!

Biophilic

If your home feels like a tranquil, nature-infused retreat like this Richmond, VA home of artist and designer Audra Kiewiet de Jonge, you're leaning into biophilic design. This design style is filled with organic shapes, lush greenery, and natural materials to create a serene sanctuary. A natural indoor-outdoor flow is also something you'll covet in this design style.

Tailored

Like a tailored suit, these rooms pay attention to the finer details. Freund says its unfussy and clutter-free and incorporates luxury elements like stone and leather. Designer Natalia Miyar designed this tailored London penthouse that's featured in Defining Style.

Modernist

If you favor simplicity, functionality, and clean lines, this design style rooted in the early 20th century is your core aesthetic. Modernism emphasizes open spaces, minimal ornamentation, and the use of modern materials like steel, glass, and concrete. Form follows function, with a focus on practicality but also really great design. Here is an example in Defining Style from designer Naoki Terada's Tokyo, Japan home.

Coastal

Organic materials inspired by seaside living delivers an elevated coastal decor. This Sydney, Australia home designed by Greg Natale embraces the views of the sea with rich textures and neutral decor with splashes of organic elements.

Textured

I'm in love with this former Harlem rectory designed by GRT Architects. The layers of textures from leather to wool to wood and glossy surfaces defines this design style and delivers a truly sensory experience.

Monochrome

If there is a single hue you fully embrace in a room or your entire home, monochrome is the definition of your design style. It's bold and unapologetic. This family villa in Amsterdam was designed by Atelier ND Interior in the perfect pink hue.

Contemporary

Freund describes this aesthetic as a "melting pot" that blends elements from the past with trendy pieces, colors, and materials. Casa Muñoz, the Madrid-based apartment of Spanish supermodel Eugenia Silva, was designed by wife-and-husband team Mafalda Muñoz and Gonzalo Machado with this aesthetic in mind.

Tropical

Climate plays a crucial role in design, especially in tropical regions, where homes must be thoughtfully designed to adapt to and limit its effects. Covered porches, concrete and tile flooring, and an invisible line between indoors and out define this decor style. Anita Calero makes it look effortlessly elegant in this Colombia home.

Rustic

Rustic is about being ok with the imperfections and embracing natural beauty with raw, organic elements like weathered wood, stone, and earthy tones. It celebrates a cozy, lived-in feel, a place you can kick up your heels and just chill. It also has a Scandi vibe as in this Maja Dixdotter-designed Swedish country home.

Deco Inspired

You may have elements of the Art Deco aesthetic in your space as it has a timeless elegance to it with sleek lines, luxe materials, and geometric patterns. Freund describes it as the most glamorous design style of the 20th century that's also rooted in modern design principles. This quintessential Art Deco apartment in Chicago was designed by Steven Gambrel.

Mountain

This design style is all about woodsy charm with exposed wood beams, stone fireplaces, and cozy textures like sheepskin and wool. Surrounded by breathtaking views, mountain homes like this farmhouse in the U.K. designed by Aldridge & Supple feel like a total escape.

Neutral

If you prefer aQuiet Luxury aesthetic, this design style is your preferred taste. With neutral tones, everything from furniture form to luxe and textured materials become the stars of the show. This Milan palazzo designed by Vincenzo De Cotiis is neutral but not at all understated.

Maximal

Maximalist design celebrates creativity and individuality with vibrant colors, bold patterns, and layered textures. If you can't commit to a style this is a design style for you. It mixes eras with eclectic decor to create a visually dynamic space. This is the maximal São Paulo, Brazil home of designer Sig Bergamin.

Timeless

Stemming from a neoclassical style, timeless design styles look to "balance, symmetry, and proportion," says Freund. It's a refined look with decorative details, as illustrated in this family home in the U.K designed by VSP Interiors.

Find more design styles, from Collected to Floral, in Defining Style: The Book of Interior Design by Joan Barzilay Freund (Phaidon).

Hanes SuperSoft 2-Piece Lounge Set

This $14 (was $27) lounge set comes with two super-soft separates that boast a roomy fit, so you can relax in total comfort.

Promising review: "I haven’t bought any Hanes products for myself before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised with these pjs. They’re so comfy and cozy, the fabric is so soft. I ordered my normal size and they fit perfectly. The oversized boxy tee with the oversized shorts work great for hot summer nights. They’re not a heavyweight cotton but not flimsy and thin either; like a typical cotton tee. They washed well and I never put my clothes in the dryer in an effort to extend the life of my clothing. They’re a good quality for the price."

Anrabess Overalls

Actually cute overalls? For just $20?! Wowza. This adjustable pair is such fun one-and-done outfit idea to keep close during spring and summer. We love to wear ours over tank tops and tees alike!

Promising review: "Really cute short overalls! Fits as suggested. I’m 5’4”, 140 lbs, and I have thick thighs. The leg openings are fairly wide even on me. I’m not a youngster anymore and appreciate that these aren’t short shorts. I washed them and the material and straps came out smooth. Nice material held its shape and no shrinkage."

FashionPuzzle Small Crescent Shoulder Bag

This $20 (was $27) shoulder bag makes a great wear-everywhere accessory, especially if you're looking for a playful pop of color! You can find it in 19 more colors to suit your style.

Promising review: "This purse is a keeper. The size is perfect, not too small, not too big. I ordered two colors for my daughter. Colors were vibrant. The quality is good. She has been using for 2 months now with no quality problems. I would buy again."

Wiholl Cap Sleeve Top

Fit with some summery cap sleeves, this $9 (was $20) top is a wardrobe must-have for those warmer days. It's also shoppable in so many different solid colors to match your outfit plans!

Promising review: "I admit I did not have high hopes for this top but I was genuinely surprised at the quality. Nice thick fabric that is not see through. Great on trend look for spring and summer."

The Gym People Full-Zip Up Hoodie

It's giving Lulu vibes for way less. This $20 (was $37) zip-up hoodie is easy to throw on and even easier to wear all day, thanks to its soft cotton construction. It's fitted with plenty of pockets and accented with seams throughout to give it a luxe look!

Promising review: "The material feels pretty thick and like it will hold up decently well. I think the cut is super flattering. Great value for the price!"

Anrabess Boxer Shorts

These stunning $9 (was $15) shorts are perfect for lounging around or heading out for errands in style. The gingham is undeniably on-trend right now – pair 'em with a white tank or graphic tee and sneakers, and you're set!

Promising review: "They are cute and comfy, I would size up though if you wanted more of an oversized look. They feel nice with a cute color. They aren’t see through, good quality for price and not too thick either so they are good for summer."

Trendy Queen Going Out Summer Tank Top

This is the most stunning top to take out on the town if you still want some good coverage! The boat neckline is nothing but trendy, plus it looks super sophisticated no matter what you pair it with. For just $12 (was $26) and 20 colors to shop from, this is a deal you can't miss for the sake of your closet.

Promising review: "These are terrific for any wardrobe. I loved them so much that I bought two. They fit nicely, are comfortable, and are great for wearing underneath a blazer, or alone. They are very versatile and slenderizing, hugging your waist."

Semaro Casual Linen High Waist Pants

Linen pants are an absolute staple for summer, and now's the perfect time get your outfits prepped and ready with this $17 (was $20) pair. The elastic waistband and breathable linen fabric make them a dream to wear. Comfy vibes only!

Promising review: "Very cool and comfortable for the upcoming warmer weather. Nice bright white. Elastic waist has waist tie to adjust for comfort. They look great on. Slightly wide leg and ankle. Will look great with summer tops. Can be fashionable for older or younger women. Did not shrink when washed in col water on delicate cycle. Air dried. Has a pretty linen texture. Not see through which can be an issue with some white materials."

Amazon Essentials Lightweight V-Neck Cardigan

This easy-wearing cardigan is practically begging for a place in your closet. Though basic, it'll pair well with pretty much everything! From jeans to dresses, if you're in need of a reliable light layering piece, this $15 pick is downright perfect.

Promising review: "Bought this cardigan to wear over a denim dress and other dresses. It is 55% cotton and true to size. Quality is great and feels very soft. If you like the traditional-cardigan look, give this one a try!"

Feisedy Vintage Aviator Sunglasses

A cute pair of sunnies never fails to make your 'fits pop. This $16 (was $23) pair is packed with vintage vibes to enhance any look.

Promising review: "Absolutely love these!! The style is fun, the color is amazing, and they actually look and feel high quality!"