Tropical fabrics, bright colours and casual furniture make this room lively and comfortable.


Simplicity with a touch of colonial elegance provides a serene environment in this bedroom. Notice the crisp white bed coverings, the natural woven blinds, grass-cloth walls and the botanical pictures, which are characteristic of the Caribbean style.

The Caribbean is a lively array of cultures set in a backdrop of azure shimmering water, white sand beaches, vivid tropical landscapes and in some cases lush green mountains. Along with song birds, steel drums, exotic cuisine and a laid back culture, the vibrancy and appeal of Caribbean design make an indelible impression. Caribbean design is a mixture of diverse indigenous, African and European elements to suit a tropical environment. The look was born of an unlikely union between the European influence of plantation owners and the colourful expression of slaves. Simplicity with a touch of colonial elegance provides the foundation. Here are some of the elements of this look:

Louvered doors and windows, elaborate fretwork, decorative balustrades, wide verandas, floors of stone/tile/wood along with a vibrant palette of colours are the trademarks of Caribbean style. Island ceilings are often high and pitched to encourage greater cooling air flow and by adding simple geometric moldings or exposed beams the ceiling becomes an important feature to the home.

Natural fiber Sisal rugs or cotton rag floor throws are often used to soften the hard surfaces. Walls might be brightly painted or kept cool and neutral, or might be finished in a stucco finish or with wood paneling.

Furniture can range from a colonial style to casual wicker and teak. Popular fabrics are light weight sheer cottons, linen, batik, colourful prints with impressions of flowers, fruit, shells and sea life.

The extrovert combination of vivid hues is a characteristic of Caribbean homes. Although these colours are usually employed on the outside of houses, they are equally appropriate indoors. Mango, lime, turquoise, pink, soft red, golden yellow, Provence blue are part of the colour palette. Accessories are simple and natural such as a leaf in a clear vase or an orchid in a pot.

This look seems like an obvious choice for someone living here in the Cayman Islands. Not only is it lively and exciting, it can be achieved on a moderate budget.

Elizabeth Howell Jones has worked as an Interior Designer in Toronto Canada and here in Grand Cayman for the past 4 years. Her clients are international and local. She can be reached at Woods Furniture & Design (345) 949-5933 or elizabeth@woods.com.ky