the charm of bermudian architecture and interior design

bermuda's captivating beauty isn't just about its pink-sand beaches and turquoise waters. nestled amongst the rolling hills and dramatic coastlines are homes that embody a unique architectural style – a delightful blend of practicality, history, and island charm. let's delve into this world of "simple beauty" and explore how to incorporate its essence into your own "haven for living."

 

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a "new home, old soul": the enduring legacy of bermudian architecture

shaped by isolation, environment, and a touch of ingenuity, bermudian architecture boasts a rich heritage. early settlers, primarily from england, brought their architectural sensibilities, but quickly adapted them to bermuda's specific needs. with limited resources and a constant threat of hurricanes, functionality became paramount. the resulting style, perfected over centuries, reflects a true "heritage of craft."

 

the hallmarks of bermudian style: timeless beauty with unexpected twists

one of our favorite places to visit is alys beach, florida. it is truly a magical experience! be sure to check out brent hull's video on youtube where he explores alys beach and it's timeless architecture and bermudan inspiration.

imagine a postcard-perfect scene: pastel-colored cottages with crisp white roofs lining a narrow, winding lane. this is the quintessential bermudian aesthetic. here's a closer look at the key elements:

steep gable roofs

steeply pitched roofs, a hallmark of english architecture, were adapted to collect precious rainwater – a vital resource on the island. the white roofs not only enhance the visual appeal but also reflect sunlight, keeping the homes cool.

fortified walls

built with limestone, these walls provided sturdiness against the strong atlantic winds. by law, modern homes must still be able to withstand hurricane-force winds.

verandas & stairways

a defining feature, the open veranda, often with a staircase leading to it, served as a social hub and a shady refuge from the midday sun. these inviting entryways perfectly capture bermuda's laid-back individuality.

color palette

the vibrant hues adorning the houses are a delightful surprise. soft pinks, blues, yellows, and greens add a touch of whimsy and reflect the island's natural beauty.

one of our favorite places to travel is alys beach, florida. most people have never heard of it! it is a one-of-a-kind destination completely inspired by bermudan and moorish architecture.

 

stepping inside: a "cozy mood" with timeless style

bermudian interiors echo the same philosophy as the exteriors – a celebration of simple beauty and functionality. here's what you'll find:

light & airy spaces

large windows and open floor plans maximize natural light and airflow, creating a sense of spaciousness and connection with the outdoors.

natural materials

exposed limestone walls, cedar beams, and furniture crafted from local wood showcase bermuda's rich heritage of craft.

coastal-inspired color schemes

light and airy colors like white, pale blues, and sandy tones create a calming and breezy atmosphere reminiscent of the ocean.

simple elegance

uncluttered spaces with clean lines and minimal ornamentation create a feeling of tranquility and timeless style. 

 photo courtesy of (1)

 

embracing a  "simpler way of living" with bermudian interior design style

so, how can you incorporate this captivating style into your own space? here are some tips to create a "haven for living" with a bermudian touch:

embrace natural light

bermuda is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant sunshine, so maximizing natural light in your space is key. large windows allow sunlight to flood in, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. arrange your furniture in a way that doesn't obstruct the flow of light, and consider using light-colored curtains or blinds that can be easily drawn back to let in as much sunlight as possible. this not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your space but also contributes to a sense of openness and vitality.

celebrate natural materials

bermudian design draws inspiration from the island's natural surroundings, so incorporating natural materials into your decor is essential. exposed brick walls add texture and character to your space while creating a cozy, rustic ambiance. woven jute rugs bring in a touch of organic warmth, and light wood furniture complements the airy feel of bermudian interiors. by embracing these elements, you can evoke the relaxed, laid-back vibe of island living right in your own home.

pops of color

bermudian design is characterized by its vibrant colors inspired by the island's lush landscapes and sparkling waters. don't be afraid to incorporate bold pops of color into your decor to capture the essence of bermuda. think turquoise blues, coral pinks, and pale lavenders reminiscent of tropical flowers and ocean hues. you can introduce these colors through throw pillows, artwork, or accent pieces to infuse your space with energy and personality while staying true to the bermudian aesthetic.

wicker & rattan furniture

natural fibers like wicker and rattan are staples of bermudian decor, adding a touch of coastal charm and casual elegance to any space. opt for wicker or rattan furniture pieces such as chairs, sofas, or coffee tables to create a relaxed, island-inspired vibe in your home. these materials not only add visual interest and texture but also bring a sense of the outdoors inside, further enhancing the connection to bermuda's natural beauty.

verandah vibes

while not everyone may have a traditional veranda, you can still capture the essence of outdoor living by creating a dedicated outdoor space, such as a patio or balcony. furnish this area with comfortable seating, lush greenery, and perhaps even a hammock or porch swing to evoke the laid-back charm of bermudian verandas. incorporate elements like outdoor rugs, lanterns, and potted plants to create a cozy retreat where you can relax and unwind while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

 photo courtesy of (1)

 

what makes bermudian design particularly appealing is its emphasis on creating environments that feel connected to nature, evoke a sense of tranquility, and encourage relaxation. whether you live by the coast or in the heart of the city, you can incorporate elements of bermudian design to transform your space into a haven that reflects the beauty and serenity of island living.

moreover, bermudian design is achievable for homeowners of all budgets and styles. whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic with subtle nods to bermudian charm or a more eclectic approach with vibrant colors and bold patterns, there are countless ways to incorporate elements of bermudian design into your home. from simple decor updates like adding throw pillows in turquoise hues to larger-scale renovations like installing large windows to maximize natural light, there are endless possibilities for infusing your space with bermudian flair.

cheers!

(1) photos courtesy and designed by freepik