Today we bring back amazing illustrator Hannah Alexander, author of the Sundry Mumsy blog. Last month we introduced Hannah’s guest column, Illustrating Interiors, with her lovely depiction of a garden container straight out of our May issue. Today Hannah brings us this stunning sketch worthy of the seaside, inspired by a waterfront room in our June issue.

I love the subtle touches of sea life in this month’s issue of At Home—the starfish and the shell printed on the pillows, the white coral used as a focal point in the fireplace (my favorite). It got me thinking about what kind of sea life I would like to incorporate into my home decor.

What I love about the sea is its mystery, its almost science-fiction quality. The term “sea-creatures” comes to mind. This is the side of the sea I find most inspiring and interesting, and everyone’s home should reflect his or her own interests. So, all that being said, I think I would most love a drawing or painting of one of the most intriguing sea creatures of all, the octopus. I can see this behind a big, ornate gold frame, making it both exotic and regal.

Photography: Nancy Nolan