These Coastal decorating ideas are a sophisticated way to make your home feel like summer every day. Make waves with this beachy style with elements like natural textures and textiles, refined finishes, and airy ambiance. Create a polished and tailored oasis right in your own home.
What’s the next best thing to being at the beach? Bringing the beach home! One of my favorite trends in home decorating is coastal décor. But before collecting those beach mementos, take a moment to consider various niches.
How to Decorate in a Coastal Style?
Do you picture light and naturally bright interiors that evoke a sense of relaxation? Cozy spaces that feel spacious and laid-back? These are hallmarks of coastal decorating.
Many different subsets exist within a classic seaside style. Although many of us may gravitate towards what is termed American Coastal Style, don’t forget there are seaside retreats in many different climates from Bali to Nova Scotia. Even within the US, Florida feels very different than California style.
Is your esthetic more tropical? Perhaps you lean more towards classic Nantucket neutrals and textures? A nautical-themed escape? An easy, breezy beach cottage filled with treasures found tumbled ashore? Hone your style with these ideas.
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FAQs
Coastal style emphasizes a relaxed atmosphere with shades of blue colors, green, beige and white. Texture is integral such as sisal rugs, weathered or distressed wood pieces, sea glass, gauzy linen, and textiles reminiscent of dune grass contribute to the airy effect.
Hamptons style marries polished elegance with breezy beach decor, whereas coastal style is more minimalist and bohemian. Native elements and natural textures such as seashells, pebbles and reclaimed timber all work beautifully for the coastal look. Tasteful neutrals and lots of white space sets the Hamptons style scene with accents of blue, steel grey or taupe used sparingly.
The nautical style is defined by dark blue, higher contrast, and clean lines- think cabana stripes. Common focal points include ship hulls, sails, paddles, buoys, and other sailing/oceanic accents. However, coastal reflects the natural textures such as seashells, pebbles and reclaimed timber.
Focus on natural materials, crisp whites, warm neutrals, and cool blues or greens inspired by the sea. The "classic" coastal style rug would be a braided or flatweave sisal or jute rug. Natural texture and asymmetry complement the casual atmosphere. Want more color? Try a braided chindi cotton rug. Distressed traditional designs work especially well in Mediterranean-inspired spaces and wave patterns are perfect for contemporary spaces.
Beach home plans can vary but interiors are often light & breezy. Common features may include open floor plans, expansive deck/patio space, elevated foundations to protect against floods, and building materials resistant to coastal weathering. Roofs are often flat or only slightly pitched, easy exterior access and lots of windows capture scenic views.
Modern or contemporary goes with everything. For coastal style, I tend to think geographically for easy personalization. Mediterranean, Nantucket, Carribean styles all have very different vibes that can be easily incorporated.
Modern Coastal Decorating Ideas
There are certainly some beautiful hallmarks of coastal style. Below are 20 ways you can incorporate this vibe into your decor without going overboard (pun intended).
1. Beach Cottage Décor
Indicative of the New England style, this coastal living room keeps things interesting by mixing old and new. Antiques and rustic, natural items are paired with modern motif.
To start, a classic combination of navy, white and silver. Cottage elements are layered in to provide cozy comfort. Large seashells, fresh flowers, blue glass, and carefully edited coastal accessories complete the look.
2. More Natural Light
Coastal design draws inspiration from the calm, serene ocean views and textures of the beach for a softened take on nature. Large windows capture scenic views and invoke a light & breezy aura of cozy calm. Sun-bleached driftwoods, smooth stone, layered textures, and neutral colors are instantly elevated when bathed in natural light.
3. Neutral Color Palette
Comfort is definitely king in the coastal bedroom style. Layers of soft fabrics feel inviting in shades of white, cream, and grey. This brilliant use of sandy neutrals achieves the same vibe in a sophisticated manner. Mixing in a few coastal accents with reclaimed items creates a balanced, cozy space.
4. Outdoor Textiles
Outdoor fabric is defined by excellent fade-resistance. What does that mean, exactly? Your sun-drenched window nook will look good for years to come. These fabrics retain their color for longer, making them essential for any light-filled space.
Accessories such as sisal rugs, rattan chairs, and woven blinds embrace the trademark low-frills attitude of this coastal living room. Indoor/outdoor fabric choices allow your belongings to withstand wet towels & sandy feet.
5. Bold Navy
Feeling nautical? Navy blue cabinets adds timeless depth and sophistication to a dining room. Sleek white cabinetry gets a bold navy-blue counterpart in this freestanding center kitchen island. Navy pairs well with whites, creams, gold, and other sandy tones.
6. Woven Baskets
Because the coastal vibe generally uses a soft color palette, texture is important. Woven baskets add warmth to any space. These unique, often handmade baskets are super simple to install. Transform a bare wall into a focal point within minutes! Then combine with beach-combed treasures for simple, summery table decor.
7. Treasured Vintage Map
There’s something almost magical about an unrolled map. One can’t help but think of pirate ships, buried treasure and “X” marks the spot. Hang a framed map to add nautical flair to your home without overdoing it.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Try your hand at a DIY project! Read how a military footlocker became a treasured trunk.
8. Curated Collections
Get lost in a display case of “found” objects. However, resist the urge to display every piece of kitschy memorabilia. Keep pairings small. A well-lit cabinet or painted accent wall draws the eye in without overwhelm. Rotate pieces or add seasonal accents to keep your space feeling fresh.
9. Splashes of Color
Coastal style isn’t limited to neutral color palettes or distressed finishes. Marry seaside subtleties with details like metallic trimmed upholstery or a glamorous Capiz shell chandelier. Pick a hero pattern like these chairs to combine layers together. This space feels cultured and cozy.
10. Watery Hues
Hit the high seas with nautical elements! A ship’s wheel, anchor, or buoys are staples of nautical decor. Grouping them together sets a tone that distinctly differs from a day at the beach. Install an eye-catching accent piece like this custom painted dresser to anchor in any style of coastal design.
If you want to DIY a dresser like this one, check out my guide to painting a dresser!
11. Bold Harbor Stripes
While it isn’t a rule, a traditional nautical theme lends itself more to primary accents such as red and navy. When working within a smaller space, it’s advisable to be bold and graphic with color/pattern rather than defaulting to all white. A striped feature wall creates the illusion of visual height in this cozy guest room.
12. Calming Seaside Art
Dusty colored accents enhance the ambience and soften up bold patterns and minimalist lines. The overall effect mimics the breeziness of the beach-soothing, light, and airy. Natural light + soft tones + a clean aesthetic = summery vibes year-round.
13. Natural Textures
Coastal design is all about subtle texture. Natural elements such as shells, coral, and driftwood are great for dimension. Incorporate wood, seagrass, linen, jute rugs, and rattan- anything that mimics the natural textures and elements found in coastal areas.
Don’t overlook architectural details as textural enhancements like an oversized coffee table. Installing an accent wall, tiling a peel and stick backsplash or treating the ceiling can add depth that transforms a space.
14. Driftwood
Incorporating driftwood texture and furniture into your design is a beautiful, organic sight like the chandelier above. Hang weathered driftwood art on a wall or use it as an air plant planter for a sea-inspired accent. Use driftwood on the mantle or in a stunning light fixture display as showcased here.
15. Rattan Accents
Wooden and rattan furniture is enjoying a resurgence of popularity. I’m here for it. Relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain, this furniture is simply meant to be by the sea. Pair with a classic blue & white color palette to let your coastal design story unfold.
Check out more ideas for how to choose kitchen island lighting.
16. Basketweave
Rattan, grasses and bamboo lend an easy breezy beach vibe to the home. Basket weave feels inviting, casually elegant, and befitting of a modern coastal home. In this kitchen design, the light fixtures and bar stools warm up an otherwise austere space.
17. Whitewashed Furniture
Faded wood is one of the trademarks of coastal living. It only makes sense to incorporate pieces that mimic the outdoor elements inside for a balanced home base. Whitewash, limed oak, and driftwood add a natural "beachy" essence to a space.
Learn how to create your own limed oak and whitewashed paint finish here to instantly transform outdated wall paneling and flooring as well.
18.Beadboard ceilings
The ceiling is another great way to infuse texture and character in your room. Beadboard ceilings are a popular ceiling finish for coastal style homes. Beadboard can be sleek and cool while still offering provincial charm. Inspired? Check out these Stylish Wall Moulding and Trim Ideas.
19. Add some Tropical Plants
Strategically placed tropical plants transport you right to the destination of your dreams…well, in your mind at least! While palms are definitely quintessential, more forgiving plants like cactus, snake plants, and birds of paradise fit right into modern coastal decor.
20. Outdoor Dining and Entertaining
Nantucket is a go-to summering spot for many New Englanders. Located off the coast of Cape Cod, it has a long seafaring history. A National Historic Landmark, the boardwalks evoke a nostalgic appeal. This weather-savvy covered porch sparks the same timeless elegance. Fresh flowers, large planters, hurricane lamps, and outdoor furniture make this cottage style space feel like a natural extension of the indoors. An understated design allows the stunning architectural details of this home to shine.
21. Mixing Patterns
The first rule of mixing patterns- there are no rules. This chic coastal living room was inspired by blue skies, soft breezes and fresh seaside air. A simple color palette featuring mellow neutrals and watery blues sets the stage for a plunge into pattern play. Build in layers and keep an editing eye, but don’t be afraid to play!
22. Slipcovered Furniture
Revitalize your room with furniture slipcovers. Slipcovers have come full circle since taking the design world by storm in the ’70s. A cloud-inspired sofa acts like a blank canvas. Choose textures, patterns, and accessories to add warmth and depth. Set a serene scene with blanched wood tables, a surf-inspired gallery wall, and chunky blue accessories.
23. Large Windows
The hallmark of coastal decorating is designing your indoor space to feel like a natural extension of the great outdoors. Create a seamless blend between the two spaces with large windows. Large windows, glass doors, and skylights flood your home with natural light and keep the view center stage. White fabrics amplify the sunlight, instantly expanding your space. Use window treatments sparingly for the full effect.
24. Open Spaces
Cluttered rooms will leave you feeling landlocked. Try floating furniture away from the walls and towards the center of a room to create more space. Install large pieces of art or a show-stopping light fixture, like the pair of nautical-inspired brass ones featured here, to draw the eye upward. Choose one paint color to anchor your space and a cohesive contrast color to accentuate design details.
25. Coastal Grandmother
Coastal grandma style is cultured yet comfy. This style invites you to slow down and stay awhile, just like grandma. You may find an urge to bake bread or make a pitcher of fresh squeezed lemonade. In this kitchen, elements such as glass, marble, and brass provide clean, modern contrast to lush floral-patterned wallpaper and sage green cabinets.
There are as many different beach styles as there are locales! Different cultures lend themselves to different coastal decorating ideas and influences- the Caribbean is very different from Nantucket. So, if you’re dreaming of bringing a beach vibe into your home, the first step may be to ask yourself where you envision your dream getaway.
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Mary says
Really appreciate your bringing out the different styles within beach/coastal. I love a soft organic look, driftwood, water birds, oyster shells, (I so want to do a mirror in oyster shells).
I can see weathered blues, greys and even a faded coral in my mind. A move to the North Carolina coast is in our future a few years from now. But I don’t know how to label the look I see in my mind. Thanks for showing the variety.
Judy says
Where can I purchase the white heron canvas painting?Love your decorating!
Rachel says
The white heron painting is available here at Ballard Designs.
Jen says
If I could decorate my house in this entire style I totally would! It just feels so cozy, like someplace you could really relax. Thanks for sharing some beachy inspiration over here!
Rachel says
I bet your house is cozy, yet lively at the same time- a really fun place to be!
Brian says
Really interesting article. Very well written. I’m amazed at how you put these pieces together.