Muriel Brandolini Transforms North Carolina Beach House with Vibrant Color

A Coastal Haven Reimagined: Bold Design Meets Resilient Engineering on Figure Eight Island

This article explores the transformation of an inherited beach house on North Carolina’s Figure Eight Island into a vibrant, family-focused retreat. The homeowners faced the challenges of a storm-prone coastal environment and wanted a livelier atmosphere.

They worked with renowned designer Muriel Brandolini and a team of experts. Together, they infused the property with personality, color, and resilience.

Embracing Island Charm: From White Box to Vivid Sanctuary

For years, this Figure Eight Island residence was cloaked in a uniform, all-white palette. The homeowners, Amanda Ross Bacon and her husband Zack, wanted a space that reflected their family’s vibrant spirit and embraced the unique character of their coastal setting.

Their goal was to create a home that was both beautiful and highly functional. It needed to withstand the environmental demands of its low-lying, storm-prone location and provide joyful spaces for family gatherings.

To achieve this, they enlisted the expertise of AD100 designer Muriel Brandolini. Drawing inspiration from the optimistic spirit of the 1950s and the island’s unique light and marshland, Brandolini set out to transform the home.

She replaced muted tones with bold colors, intriguing patterns, and vintage finds. This was not just a cosmetic update but a complete reimagining of the home’s character.

Engineering for Endurance, Designing for Delight

The renovation focused on both aesthetics and structural integrity. Brandolini worked with architect Alice Tai and New Path Contracting to ensure the house could withstand coastal challenges.

They carefully selected materials and construction techniques to build resilience against storms and the demands of seaside living. At the same time, the design prioritized welcoming and convivial spaces.

The open-plan second floor is now the heart of the home’s social life. A striking 1980s Arquitectonica Madonna table, found on eBay, sits at the center, surrounded by playful Michele De Lucchi First chairs.

A custom Pepe López rug adds artistic flair, and a daisy-yellow tiled fireplace brings cheerful warmth. These elements create a memorable focal point for family interaction.

A Tapestry of Textures and Global Inspiration

Brandolini’s design philosophy is clear in the attention to detail and use of global, artisanal elements. She designed original block-printed cotton duck fabrics and checkerboard curtains, both made in Jaipur, India.

Handcrafted artistry continues throughout the home, with custom rugs and hand-embroidered Vis‑A‑Vis Paris linens in the bedrooms. These touches add refined luxury and a personal feel.

The bathrooms are unique sanctuaries with custom hand-block-printed shower curtains. Each bathroom features distinctive graphic tile patterns, giving every space its own charm.

Eclectic Touches and Cocooning Sanctuaries

The kitchen forgoes traditional cabinetry in favor of apron-ruffle café curtains, creating a relaxed and inviting space. Eclectic lighting, including Ferroluce Lariat pendants and an Opaline pendant by Richard Fauguet, adds visual interest.

A retro Smeg refrigerator anchors the kitchen, blending vintage style with modern function. Each bedroom is designed as a unique “cocooning” space for relaxation.

These retreats are brightened by vintage lamps and bespoke textiles, reflecting Brandolini’s signature style. Vintage furniture, sourced from Connecticut and West Palm Beach, and accents from makers like Hervé Van der Straeten, Martin Szekely, and Jens Risom add sophistication and depth to the interiors.

A Legacy of Joy and Connection

Amanda Ross Bacon fondly praises Brandolini’s ability to weave together expansive, daring juxtapositions. She admires her fearless embrace of novelty.

This creative freedom has resulted in spaces that encourage joyful family gatherings. The design also fosters a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural beauty.

The project balances essential practical updates with exuberant design. It transforms the house into a light-filled, social haven.

This reimagined Figure Eight Island home is more than just a renovation. It’s a testament to the power of collaborative design and expert engineering.

Families can now watch porpoises play in the surf and celebrate shared memories. The home is a place to forge new connections within a resilient and captivating environment.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Muriel Brandolini Sparks Joy in a Colorful North Carolina Beach Retreat