July 20th 2021

Whether you’re already missing the beach from your last vacation or you’re gearing up for an epic August staycation, there’s always good reason to bring more R&R vibes into your home for summer. One way to do it: transforming your kitchen into a tropical Tiki bar.

It might sound too good to be true, but these five amazing design trends really do channel those coastal dreams. So if you like pina coladas and getting caught in the rain, you’re going to want to keep reading. Here are our five Instagram decor picks of the week—with all the details you need to bring these Tiki-cheeky tropical looks into your home.

1. Matching wicker pendants and bar stools

Nothing says “beachy” quite like materials such as jute and hemp—which is one reason we love these matching pendants and bar stools featured by @coastalhamptonstyle.

“This look is all about elevating a basic design by adding texture,” says Kelly Taylor of Kelly Taylor Interior Design. “Pair the natural woven textures in varying scales with slick, white surfaces in the kitchen, and suddenly you’ve turned a basic white kitchen into something far more interesting.”

2. Mirrored subway tile

If you want to give your kitchen an instant glam makeover, try a glitzy backsplash, like this mirrored subway tile from @rymcdon.

“I can’t speak for other designers but we are so sick of plain old white subway tile,” Taylor says. “This mirrored tile is larger than traditional subway tile, and the glamour of it adds to an otherwise simple space.”

3. Minibar

Who says you need a huge breakfast bar in your kitchen? Certainly not @deliamaga77, with her trendsetting minibar (and we mean “mini” literally).

“A minibar is a perfect spot for entertaining and storing your drink supplies,” says designer Andra DelMonico, of Trendey. “This could be for mixed drinks, wine, or even coffee.

“To successfully add a minibar to your home, look for an unused corner or wall to turn into your minibar station,” she adds. “It can be as small or as big as you’d like, but try to at least have some shelving or cabinets, or space for a workspace.”

4. Plaster pink cabinets

Ready for a new color in your kitchen? Then you just might like these tropical-inspired plaster pink cabinets featured by @pluckldn.

“Pale and pastel colors have been taking over kitchen decor trends,” says DelMonico. “For pink shades, this can end up looking too sweet or juvenile, which is why plaster pink has become so popular. It has more mature pink hues and works well on cabinets because it adds color and warmth without being overwhelming.”

5. Countertop ladder shelving

Great design is in the details, like this charming countertop ladder shelving from @dom_za_miedza.

“Everyone can use more storage space and help with staying organized,” says DelMonico. “This especially applies to the kitchen, where the cabinets are stuffed and the pantry is overflowing. A countertop ladder is perfect because you can easily move it around, and you don’t have to drill holes in the wall. Plus the multiple shelves can help you keep your most-used cooking essentials within reach.”