Commercial Commission: Seaflowers Retreat
Reimagining a Coastal Retreat
This commercial commission saw artist Bert Fowler collaborate with Seaflowers, a newly reimagined guesthouse set in a dreamy creek-side location in Frogmore, near Salcombe in Devon. The brief centred on creating an immersive, artist-led interior that captured the spirit of coastal living whilst offering guests a distinctive and memorable place to stay.
As Coast Magazine observed in its June 2024 issue: “Anyone with a passing interest in coastal interior design is likely to have heard of the brand Bert & Buoy… And if you're a massive fan of Bert Fowler's distinctive seaside designs, then a new guesthouse which has opened in Devon ought to be on your ‘must visit’ list… a bright and lively place to stay situated in a dreamy location on the creek with amazing views.”
Working closely with Suzy Greenwood, the visionary third-generation owner of Seaflowers, Bert developed a cohesive visual identity for the entire property. The heart of the guesthouse features a striking large-scale line art scenes with an original canvas and bespoke wallpaper inspired by the Frogmore setting, anchoring the interiors firmly in their coastal surroundings. Communal spaces were designed with connection in mind, combining calm, modern colour palettes with rustic coastal details and commissioned artworks that elevate the guest experience while remaining relaxed and welcoming.
Each bedroom was conceived as its own sanctuary, themed around one of Bert’s signature wildlife characters — from the Cunning Crabs and Handsome Herons to the Petite Puffins, Great Gulls, So Shrimps, and Sammy Seals. These characters appear across wall art, blankets, cushions, mugs, and accessories, giving every room a distinct personality with a high standard of finish. The approach balances playful storytelling with thoughtful, luxurious design, ensuring the interiors feel both joyful and serene.
The project has been widely praised for its originality and sense of place. The Telegraph awarded Seaflowers a 9/10, noting: “Slick and spacious rooms overlooking a picturesque creek have here been thoughtfully curated with locally sourced treats – from homemade teas and fresh eggs laid in the garden to bespoke artwork by Bert Fowler. Each room highlights a colourful character to add individuality, from the cunning crab to a handsome heron.”
The commission demonstrates Bert’s ability to translate narrative line art into fully realised interiors, creating commercially successful spaces that feel distinctive, immersive, and deeply connected to their setting.
