Beach Living with a Modern Touch

A Florida decorator redefines oceanfront elegance

Written by Lori Ferguson

Brian and Cindy Mitchell love their beach home in Rye. The location is perfect—the water is just steps away from the expansive deck that stretches across the entire oceanfront side of the house—and the views are spectacular. “Gazing out the windows of our master suite, there are days when you feel like you could walk to the Isles of Shoals,” Cindy says. But as their children grew and their tastes changed, the Mitchells found themselves yearning for a new look. “We wanted a more sophisticated, contemporary feel rather than the traditional, nautical New England beach home look we had.” And they knew just the person to render the transformation: California-born interior designer Linda Holman of Lovelace Interiors in Destin, Florida.

Holman was delighted to take up the challenge. An experienced designer, she has created award winning designs for clients across the country and has extensive experience with high-end, beachfront residences. She also knew the Mitchells and was confident she could give them the home they envisioned. “I’m a professional guide. My aim is to read clients and give them the results they desire, rather than impose my vision on a space.” Holman had decorated homes for close friends of the Mitchells and had a good sense of the couples’ aesthetic.