Much of the home seems to have beached itself and, in fact, some of it did. Leihgeber has displayed some of her most prized seashells in a dainty shadowbox. What otherwise might be mere vacation souvenirs, Leihgeber turns into artistic focal points. Fashionable straw hats, woven baskets and bamboo accents add whimsical touches throughout the house. A vintage sleigh bed contrasts strikingly with the earth-toned and bohemian-patterned throw, creating the right balance. Mosquito netting helps to transport one to a tropical oasis, Tahiti, perhaps.
Colleen Duffley Production
Much of the home seems to have beached itself and, in fact, some of it did. Leihgeber has displayed some of her most prized seashells in a dainty shadowbox. What otherwise might be mere vacation souvenirs, Leihgeber turns into artistic focal points. Fashionable straw hats, woven baskets and bamboo accents add whimsical touches throughout the house. A vintage sleigh bed contrasts strikingly with the earth-toned and bohemian-patterned throw, creating the right balance. Mosquito netting helps to transport one to a tropical oasis, Tahiti, perhaps.
A beach home’s outdoor design is just as important as its interior décor. Following trips to the Gulf or along nearby bicycle paths, luxurious hours are spent reclining on porches and balconies. Much of the home’s design mimics abodes in Nantucket and Cape Cod with its clean lines, neutral colors and outdoor oases perfectly suited to sun worshippers.
Colleen Duffley Production
A beach home’s outdoor design is just as important as its interior décor. Following trips to the Gulf or along nearby bicycle paths, luxurious hours are spent reclining on porches and balconies. Much of the home’s design mimics abodes in Nantucket and Cape Cod with its clean lines, neutral colors and outdoor oases perfectly suited to sun worshippers.
Leihgeber views cooking as an art form — and every great artist must have a well-equipped studio. Her kitchen is open and airy. Leihgeber uses herbs grown in her own backyard in her cooking and even as additions to décor. The spacious countertops are marble. Reclaimed wooden shelves hold tiny treasures or fresh fruit and plants, which add to the tropical island feeling. “It’s very user-friendly. I’ve fed many families here,” she said.
Colleen Duffley Production
Leihgeber views cooking as an art form — and every great artist must have a well-equipped studio. Her kitchen is open and airy. Leihgeber uses herbs grown in her own backyard in her cooking and even as additions to décor. The spacious countertops are marble. Reclaimed wooden shelves hold tiny treasures or fresh fruit and plants, which add to the tropical island feeling. “It’s very user-friendly. I’ve fed many families here,” she said.
Leihgeber wanted the master bedroom to provide the serenity and calm of a spa. White walls and furnishings promote relaxation. The shell chandelier above the bed invites peaceful thoughts of crashing waves as sweet dreams approach. The whitewashed wood floors and wood lentils over the windows create a warm, inviting essence that reflects light throughout the space. A mirror enlarges the room. Leihgeber painted the Chippendale poster bed with her favored Annie Sloan hues. Coral, shell and driftwood accents bring the beach inside.
Colleen Duffley Production
Leihgeber wanted the master bedroom to provide the serenity and calm of a spa. White walls and furnishings promote relaxation. The shell chandelier above the bed invites peaceful thoughts of crashing waves as sweet dreams approach. The whitewashed wood floors and wood lentils over the windows create a warm, inviting essence that reflects light throughout the space. A mirror enlarges the room. Leihgeber painted the Chippendale poster bed with her favored Annie Sloan hues. Coral, shell and driftwood accents bring the beach inside.
Everything that Yvette Leihgeber touches pulsates. Artistry infects every facet of her life from her beautifully brilliant paintings to the creations she cooks up in her kitchen to the exquisitely imaginative décor throughout her coastal Watersound home.
Leihgeber has a deep-rooted appreciation for all that is tranquil, comforting and feminine.
“My life is inspired by travel, design, fashion, art and beautiful things,” Leihgeber said. “Much of my own artwork focuses on women. They are powerful and beautiful subjects.”
Her beach-centric paintings accent whitewashed walls of her home creating a vibe that is both attractive and relaxing.
“I want people to feel relaxed and invited when they enter my home,” Leihgeber said. “From the décor and design to the beach inspired music I tend to play throughout the house to enjoying a glass of wine. I wanted an environment that people would never want to leave. I never want to leave it!”
Leihgeber and her family split their time between the beach and a home in Tyler, Texas. She has a deep affinity for North Florida, which is manifested in her paintings, her impressive seashell collection and her favorite pastimes, which include paddleboarding and bicycle rides with her family.
Leihgeber’s three daughters have inherited their mother’s artistic bent, the inevitable result of spending time in a home that the art aficionado would praise. Still, the place does not come across as cluttered or as an art gallery posing as a home. The key is balance: an artful blend of dynamic pieces, coastal chic and bohemian accents.
