Turquoise Take
Kate Jackson Design transformed this simple Quonnie beachside home to reflect the family ’ s fun and vibrant personality .
BY KERRI TALLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NAT REA
L IFE ON THE COAST CAN BE EASILY REFLECTED IN home decor , but it takes special talent to do it with sophistication and class . Kate Jackson took this summer vacation home in Quonochontaug and completely flipped it on its head to reflect the family ’ s fun and vibrant energy .
The homeowner was looking for a refresh on her outdated decor . With the beach in the backyard , she wanted something light and airy to reflect coastal charm , but mature and streamlined throughout the entire home . The homeowner loves turquoise , which was timelessly threaded into just about every room . The blue hues are paired with creamy whites in practical “ life-friendly ” fabrics suitable for everyday wear and tear .
One of the most underutilized rooms in the home became a spotlight space for reading , cozying up in the winter or casual lounging . Previously , it was just a passingthrough space between the hallway and entertainment room , but it had great bones and Jackson just couldn ’ t pass up a good flip .
She took the all-white built-ins and painted them a smoky navy , filling the shelves with antiques , maritime-themed books , family photos and organic decor from the sea . For a room that doesn ’ t receive much light , the darker paint adds to the coziness and draws guests in . For ample seating , Jackson swiveled the existing striped chairs to frame the fireplace and redirected a sofa from another room , which was reupholstered turquoise and welted in navy blue , to face the fireplace focal point . Adding two low , modern iron side tables with travertine tops makes the space a destination infused with an infectious family-functional vibe rather than just a passing-through point .
The design carries into the adjoining TV room with hand-rubbed black spool chairs and subtly patterned turquoise fabrics . The iron accents are seen throughout the living areas to bring balance to the lively blue .
The entryway itself is a vintage hodgepodge . A bamboo settee beautifully contrasts with custom hand-block linen incorporating blues , creams and turquoise tones . Vintage accordion wall hooks hold hats for grab-and-go beach days , popping against the light sand walls that highlight the white trim . A locally sourced turquoise demijohn and fun jute rug fill out the space with color and texture .
LEFT : Jackson painted the built-ins in the transitional space a dark navy to create a cozy reading nook .
RIGHT : The daughter ’ s bathroom features grasscloth wallpaper that mimics the ocean outside .
8 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY ’ S NEST | 2023