Coastal Decoration Indian Style :: Goa, India

I am always drawn to the colour and texture when I walk along a beach and it's a pleasant surprise to find so much inspiration on Indian beaches...

These beach huts at Cozy Nook use decorative timber screens as the downstairs entrance wall and look stunning against a the natural bamboo backdrop. 

In contrast these images are of fishing nets, timber panelling, ceramic pots, fabrics and other objects that have now found a new uses. 

Next stop the beaches of Kerala.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Beach Huts :: Ordo Sounsar, Palolem Beach, Goa, India

I normally like my accommodation to be more permanent in construction but while in Southern Goa, I had the pleasure of staying in an amazing quiet bamboo hut resort called Ordo Sounsar on Palolem beach.


After crossing an interesting little bamboo and timber draw-bridge you find this resort tucked away down the quieter northern end of the beach.

The interesting thing about this resort is that all these beach huts are constructed new each season by the resort staff from locally sourced sustainable materials. 

In fact each resort in Palolem is required by the state government to keep records showing where they obtained the materials as taking timber etc from the local forests is forbidden. Most of the materials therefore comes from local mills which certify the material is from either trees which fall naturally during the monsoon season or from plantation stock. 

Also, where possible any equipment and materials that will survive the monsoon are stored on the property for next season.

Each hut comes with an outdoor shower and as the resort is surrounded by forest you can also share your outdoor shower with it's local resident monkeys hanging around high up in the trees!

So when it comes to decorating the resort the use of only local materials make for interesting natural design elements; bamboo weave is used to make vessels for lamp shades; timber off cuts are used for decks, bridges and furniture; rope and coir are used for ceiling features and balustrades; palm leaves are used for roofing; wicker and cane are used to weave lanterns and draped fabrics are used to clad ceilings.

A fantastic use of natural and local materials and an amazing place to stay! Also a huge thanks to Sera, LD, Shelly and the team for being great hosts :)

Have fun.

Coastal Colours & Textures :: Goa, India

I have been taking some much needed rest in the very nice beach area of Palolem in Southern Goa. 

I couldn't help but notice the beautiful colours of the beach huts and boats as well as the use of local textiles and fabrics. 

Absolutely stunning and inspirational. It is a delight to see this bold use of contrasting colours against the backdrop of sand and sea!

Have fun.

Coastal Christmas Decorating Ideas

The last few years I have found myself by the beach for Christmas. This year I will be in Southern India and without access to my Christmas decoration box which is currently in storage back home in Brisbane.

As I am currently living out of a rucksack I will have to search the beaches for this years driftwood and shell based decorations! Here's a few ideas for now until I find mine over the next few weeks...

For more driftwood Christmas tree ideas click here.

Have fun & have a great holiday.