Sometimes it's a song that can evoke the desire for the relaxed lifestyle of the islands; other times, a tropical drink or the memory of a special vacation. Island style can be brought home, and it is easy to accomplish, even if you are far away from a coastline. This style is inspired as much from its history as it is from its surroundings.

Psychologically, this design style is great to work with because the underlying theme is relaxation and comfort and it brings a smile to everyone who enjoys a beach vacation. In almost every instance, this style is less formal than most traditional interiors. Like all things, island-style interiors tend to have a sense of humor and casualness about them.

Generally, interiors in the islands are based, to a certain degree, on what resources are available to them. In colonial times, most of the furniture came from Europe and tended to be formal and made from more select woods. Over time, local materials such as mahogany were used, and formal furniture styles were simplified. Furniture design also adapted to the hot and sometimes humid climate of life on the islands, and so the backs of chairs and glass fronts of hutches were replaced with caning to allow for breezes to pass through.

From the simplicity of an all-white room to the child-like combinations of intense colors within the architecture, color is magical in island style. The color inspirations all emanate from nature, from a basket of tropical fruit to the colors of the sand and the ocean to the brilliant floral colors of hibiscus and bougainvillea. The combinations are endless and are invariably paired with white for contrast. Woods are also used and can range from light driftwood to dark coffee-stained tones.

Light plays an interesting ingredient in island style interiors. Because of the heat, the desire is to prevent or control the amount of light entering a room. This is why we see shades or plantation shutters used throughout. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, especially if there is a nice view to gaze upon. Other window treatments frequently used are very thin cottons and gauze-like linens, which help control the sunlight and keep bugs and mosquitoes out.

To bring island style into your home it is not necessary to get rid of everything you own. Instead, careful editing can give you the sensible simplicity of island interiors. Take a risk and paint your rooms a rich color — pineapple yellow for example — and paint your trim bright white. Antique furniture can be used in the mix, just make sure you do not over-accessorize. Keep ornate furniture and accessories to a minimum. To maintain a cool interior, bare wood floors or tile floors work best. Lastly, don't forget to include a substantial number of plants and flowers inside. If they are from your own backyard, even better. Island style is about making the most of what you have and allowing the simple luxuries of life that surround you to shine.

Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Florida. To find out more about Joseph Pubillones, or to read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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