WHILE SHE WAS INSPIRED by the ocean-town locale of this Manchester-by-the-Sea home, interior designer Honey Collins didn’t want the family room and nearby bathroom to exude “the typical coastal feel with shells and deep shades of blue.” Rather, Essex-based Collins strove for a clean and contemporary look that was also warm and inviting. She revived the room with neutral hues offset by light browns and oh-so-subtle blues, along with understated patterns and texture. The space is now a light and airy haven that manages to feel welcoming even during the winter months.

1 >STORAGE AND DISPLAY AREAS were added with built-in shelves and cabinetry crafted around the fireplace by Essex-based carpenter Rob Huss.

2 >A NAUTICALLY INCLINED PRINT by Martha’s Vineyard artist Andrew Gordon Moore is hung across two doors that conceal a television.

3 >A CHAIR AND OTTOMAN by Clarence House are upholstered in a soft blue similar to the shade used on the ceiling.

4 >A COFFEE TABLE wrapped in raffia adds texture to the space, says Collins.

5 >THE

Michael J. Lee

COWTAN & TOUT SOFA is covered in chocolate-brown cotton velvet. A leopard-print pillow adds a modest dash of pattern.

6 >A CERAMIC GARDEN STOOL from Icon Group, at the Boston Design Center, is just the right size for an end table in the compact space.

7 >A BATHROOM VANITY with its attractive blue-toned soapstone top and basin was designed and built by Huff.

8 >OIL-RUBBED BRONZE HARDWARE was selected to balance out the room’s light colors and add rustic appeal.

9 >AN AGED-WOOD MIRROR from Restoration Hardware contrasts with the decidedly modern gray limestone floor, says Collins. “It makes for a much more interesting room when you combine styles.”