Designed to keep sand and soil outside, a secondary entrance located conveniently adjacent to the driveway and garage opens into a laundry room, where one can clean up after a day at the beach.

Hard-working yet stylish, the laundry room makes a designer statement. Vibrant green walls connect to lush side yard views and a Jacksonville Beach, Fla., street light banner doubles as artwork.

Energy-efficient appliances are tucked conveniently under counter; the muted titanium finish lends a modern sensibility.

A window bench offers a cozy spot to stop and kick off flip-flops and stow them in hand-molded rattan baskets before entering the kitchen. A garden stool may double as a laptop computer stand.