The “Coastal Grandmother” Trend
Everyone and their mother (or grandmother, more aptly) is discussing the “Coastal Grandmother” trend these days (I was asked to comment on it for Martha Stewart recently). Born from the global adoration of the most perfect beach house of all time, Erica Barry’s home in Nancy Meyers’ Something’s Gotta Give. But I think it’s deeper than just a pretty house- I think it’s a lifestyle people are craving- one of relaxation, simple luxuries, free time, long lunches, farmer’s markets, cold glasses of white wine and cashmere sweaters at a beach picnic. I mean, who WOULDN’T want that?
The aesthetics of “coastal grandma” center around traditional, classic pieces, neutral colors and texture. Think linen, jute, mohair, wool knits, soft prints, antique case goods and grasscloth or raffia accents. It’s about creating a comfortable, lived in space that is light and bright and NEVER out of style. It made me think about a project we did a couple years ago that was literally this- a beach house for a grandmother! So I had to post it again because it’s a great example of this look. Photography by Sarah Winchester
The primary suite with motorized blackout romans and sheer drapes is actual heaven.
This might be one of my favorite shots of all time- that view!
I can so see Erica Barry staying here.
Pale blue grasscloth in the closet and custom millwork everywhere (my dad’s firm was the architect for this house as you may recall)
Also one of my most favorite bathrooms ever- small but oh so stylish!
The family room done in all pale blues and white.
The dining room has such a stunning view as well and is a mix of woven chairs, painted wood and skirted seating.
We did a facelift on the kitchen- replacing the counters and backsplash, painting the cabinetry and adding some modern but beachy counter stools.
Here are some selections
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[…] more Coastal Grandmother style, read this and this. Can you tell, I’m into it? And this seriously major blogger is all over CG too. Did you know […]
I’ve always loved Erica Barry’s house – and the whole movie! Besides the decor, what I love most is that it’s hers because she bought it – she makes the living that affords that house.
Something’s Gotta Give is one of my favorite movies. Erica’s home makes me want to live in Hamptons and become a writer, ha! The photos in this post are absolute perfection. Beautiful job Erin.
Such a beautiful house- timeless. I love every detail. I would be happy to move right in…..and those views!!!!
If I were to visit this house, I would never want to leave. What a calm serene feeling you would get upon entering thru the front door . I love the color palette used!
This is the house of my DREAMS!
Love the colors ..so Peaceful and calm.
I have to laugh when I see the “new” coastal grandmother style. I was a coastal grandmother long before it became fashionable. My home has always been filled with neutrals, blues and whites. My closet is filled with white capris and my antique dressers loaded with cozy sweaters and straw hats hang in my laundry room. This is not a “new” thing!!!!
It’s a fabulous home for relaxing; thanks for sharing it again. Perhaps I’m just too far inland—I need a shot of black in every room to keep from drifting away on the tide. A Mark Sikes-style ebonized chinoiserie dresser or folding screen, for instance. I’ll bet stylish Grand Dames are sitting on a lot of these beautiful pieces. Will they be abandoned as this style gains favor? Best wishes!
OMGoodness!!!!
Loving. I think this is when I first “discovered”
EGI. This house is to die for and my fav movie for sure.
For the interior alone… but of course, the story!
❤️
Beautiful
My husband I retired a few years ago and built a smaller retirement home. While it is not in Cape Cod or Hilton Head, I still wanted that coastal vibe. Little did I know until a few weeks ago when I first read the term Coastal Grandmother style, that there was a trend that I was following. Usually, I’m way behind. Thanks Erin for reposting!
LOVE it!!
I have all the Nancy Meyers movie houses pinned for future drooling. I recently found a stack of old magazine clippings, my favorite rooms. I’ve stayed very consistent, lots of cream and blue with antiques and black lampshades. I also love a hit of leopard print. I have two of your velvet pillows and they’re in great shape making me happy every time I see them. This millennial grandma also has aShinto wedding kimono hanging on the wall, along with a family size Shinto shrine I use to display my small netsuke collection. Now if I could just have an ocean view…
This is stunning….I would love to know the shade of white that was used on the walls. So lovely and fresh!
Who IS this woman?!?! Can I be her? Just wow. Everything in this house is phenomenal and relaxing. Your design is so timeless and fresh. Love every bit of it!
Perfection all around! This is, and always has been my style. I do add in more black and wood elements to make all the boys in my house feel at home too, but I will dial it back to whites once they are in college, haha
those curtains!!!! where can I find them or something similar?
Same!! The curtains are stunning.
When you posted on Monday about watching Anatomy of a Scandal for the great interiors , the first thought that came to my mind was Something’s Gotta Give (and a few other Nancy Meyers films). Thanks for re-posting this beautiful home. I remember when you first shared it and it’s always been a favorite.
I love all the houses in Nancy Meyers’ movies. And good news! She just signed a deal to do another one for Netflix.
When Gen Z validates your personal style and you were just busy being you (said by Gen Xer typing this wearing a Frank & Eileen shirt). Love everything except the bowls of shells…just no. I prefer Erica Barry’s bowls of white rocks.
I love the term “coastal grandmother” and I love that the idea is so timeless..this project is goals! Is your dad still taking on projects? We are moving to Westport/New Canaan/Darien in a couple of months and we are looking for a house we can put our stamp on. Would love an architect recommendation. Thanks.