• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
Bea Mombaer's beach house in Knokke, a seaside town close to the Dutch border in Belgium, features the same soft tones as the elements outside — a mix of gentle greys, browns and white. Natural textures such as the unbleached linen sofa, the grass matting and the unfinished wood are enlivened with details such as an African fly switch placed beside the fireplace as art, an old meatsafe used as a bedside table, and canvas camp chairs used for casual seating. The result is a tranquil retreat, perfect for relaxed summer living. Via British Homes and Gardens, late 1990s. (photos by Hotze Eisma)