Putting the 'Beach' in Beach Home.

While the Midwest isn’t exactly on the ocean, it does sport a number of lakes that are home to costal-inspired getaways. HGTV magazine lists a number of decorating tips that can help you create your tropical retreat regardless of your distance to the beach.

Let as much light in as possible. Linen curtains are heavy enough to block the sun when needed, but their loose weaves allow light to filter in. Linen can also be used for your bed’s headboard.

Use soothing colors (nothing too dark) on walls and for furniture. White furniture, countertops, cabinets, and bedding/couch cushions are easily complimented by soft shades of blue, green and brown to achieve a serene look. Using coastal patterns (fish, sailboats, anchors, etc.) is a great idea for throw pillows. Blue and green tile and backsplash should be paired with white bathrooms and kitchens. Wide plantation shutters (also in white) compliment this color scheme. As for the home’s exterior, grey stone siding (with white trim and a light blue door) is classically coastal.

Rattan chairs provide a naturally woven look. Using thick rope can also achieve this image, and is quite versatile. A ball of thick rope can be used as a door stop, the base of a lamp, or the border of a picture frame or mirror. Big woven baskets can be used to hold pillows and blankets, or could be used as a laundry basket.

Distressed finishes (think whitewashed mirror frames, consoles and tables) mimic driftwood. These antique finishes make furniture look slightly weathered. A burnt oak stain can also be used to achieve an aged, washed ashore look.

Decorate with art. Take advantage of shells and coral—a capiz chandelier makes a wonderfully beachy fixture. Sea glass makes for nice knobs, drinking glasses, and decorative bottles. Coastal art (beach and seaside scenes) is a quick way to turn a house into a beach house. You can also use furniture as art—consider putting a sailboat bed in a child’s room, with a lamp that looks like a lighthouse and nautical flags hanging on the walls. Striped rugs are nautical additions to any room.