Robins are birds that I enjoy viewing, but not as they try to build nests under our porch lights which are on both sides of an area right by our front entrance door. For three days my husband has removed the straw, twigs, etc in order to prevent a completed robin's nest. They put the straw, twigs, etc. up, he takes them down immediately. Today after reading these posts, I sprayed the area with ant and roach spray that I use when the ants try to visit too close to our outside walkway. Two robins just came with straw in their mouths, but they flew away. I hope this is a long-term solution. This is the first time that we have had this problem in the nineteen years that we have lived here. I am already tired of the mess on our porch and the potential health hazard presented if the robins succeed in building a permanent nest. We have plenty of trees that the birds usually choose for their nests and are still quite welcome to do so. However, why our porch this year is a puzzle. Thanks to all who have posted for their solutions. To the haters, because one does not want a bird's nest in an area that he/she frequently uses in his/her home, does not label the person as an animal hater. Why should my quality of life be compromised daily upon trying to enter my home for the sake of a bird's nest? The answer is that it shouldn't and will not. We will win this fight and reclaim our safety and keep our good health.

I never had luck with paint staying on outdoor concrete, so good luck! There is also the option of putting wood deck tiles over it. You can search "deck tiles" on Amazon.

I walk the closest half mile to pick up the trash several times a year, but don't bike ride it. The scenic byway is known as The Rattler. You can google it. It is heavily used by motorcycle riders, car rally groups, bicyclists and leaf peepers. Most amusing is when this group of skate boarders drive to the very top which is next door to me and ride down the mountain on their skate boards.

What a fun project. I have a few thoughts that are really just my opinion and shared with very good intentions and hoping the best for your project. I am assuming that your ceiling height is 8ft and the wall length is approximately 8ft as well. I find that oversized pieces are more dramatic and bring colour into a space without clutter or too much contrast. I would lean toward the large piece (#3) simply because it is oversized but I have one concern and that is your hall table. You can use multiple pictures but they should be same size and frame so that they group reads as one large piece (see example below). I think it may be too low and small in scale for the space and for a larger piece. I think the console could be low and wider with a heavier scale (like a bench) or taller and wider to support the art and perhaps a basket with towels or a dry flower arrangement (assuming you don't have a curious pet or small children). I have attached some pics of lighter finished wood. Finally beach themes can be less literal. The use of colours and textures that remind one of ocean side, "beachy" places with a few references work really well too. You have already incorporated blues which is a great start, natural woods, linen and sandy colours will give you the same feeling and be very elegant. You could even add some panel moulding to the pace to add texture. Nothing too elaborate but an extra layer of details to finish off the space. Don't be shy with lighting and other accessories (e.g. baskets) a hook for a hat and light shawl (all complimentary in colour). This will help you to bring some of the colours in your home to the front door or be bold and paint out your door! Entries are so much fun. Good Luck!H