There’s been one room at the veterans’ home that has been driving me nuts because it was definitely lacking direction as far as a design scheme goes.

I had pillows and a headboard (purchased for $20.00 at my favorite resale store), but no real idea what I wanted to do. I scoured Pinterest and some of my favorite home décor magazines for ideas, and finally came up with the idea of using a British Colonial/West Indies theme.

The West Indies design look consists of breezy bed linens, wooden furniture (think bamboo and cane), and bright accent pieces. This article in Coastal Living definitely inspired me to try out this look!

This wooden table was rescued from a Dumpster, painted turquoise, and will serve as the table at the end of the bed. Its narrow top and unique shape makes it perfect for the end of the full size bed.

"Before" Image of Brown Table

"After" Image of Brown Table

I like to have one statement piece in each room I decorate and this elephant definitely makes an impression. She was originally a cherry wood color, but I wanted to tie in more turquoise, so she got a nice coat of the spray paint I used on the end table. “Ellie” the Elephant now serves as the room’s statement piece and mascot.

"Before" Image of "Ellie" the Elephant

"Ellie" Re-Done!

I plan on finding some funky bamboo lamps to use for lighting and I think making some abstract art with palm fronds could be really cool. I’m excited about the potential for this room now that it finally has a direction!