Coastal design has always held a special place in interior decor, reflecting the tranquility and ease of seaside living. As the world emerges from the pandemic, there is a renewed interest in creating spaces that evoke the feeling of a vacation, even in non-coastal locations. Homeowners are increasingly drawn to open, airy environments that capture the essence of the coast. This timeless design style, which originated from the way people decorated their waterfront homes, has evolved over the years. Coastal design now embodies a broader interpretation of bringing the outdoors in, regardless of a home’s proximity to the water. It is about invoking the relaxation and casual vibe of seaside living in everyday life.
So, how can you infuse your home with a more sophisticated coastal feel? Here are some top tips and ideas to get started.
Skip the Seashells
Simplicity is key to achieving a modern coastal design. Instead of overly literal decor choices like seashells, consider embracing light, earthy tones with subtle pops of color to create a fresh, airy atmosphere. Keeping color palettes minimal and playing with textures can add depth and evoke the feel of coastal living.
Achieve Balance
When it comes to coastal decor, balance is crucial. Start with neutral tones for larger furniture pieces and layer on accessories that reflect the coastal theme. Details like striped or natural fiber rugs, blue and white-hued pillows, and decorative items like sea glass beads or bamboo photo frames can enhance the coastal vibe. The key is to mix and match pieces while maintaining a neutral base, allowing you to seamlessly update accessories with the changing seasons.
Textiles
Textiles play a significant role in creating a coastal atmosphere. Reconsider how you use textiles in your home. One effective approach is to introduce an area rug that feels more aligned with a vacation home than a traditional residence. Additionally, window treatments made from natural materials like sisal or seagrass can add texture and warmth, enhancing the coastal aesthetic.
Incorporate Wood Elements
Wood accents are another way to bring a coastal feel into your home without going overboard. Adding a wood beam, shiplap, or other wooden features to a ceiling can be transformative. These elements can add character and warmth to your space without feeling overly nautical.
Add Architectural Features
For a more authentic coastal design, consider architectural elements like a cupola. Historically used as beacons and sources of ventilation, cupolas now serve as decorative features that flood interior spaces with natural light, enhancing the coastal vibe.
Infuse Your Space with Local Artists
As people spend more time in their oceanside second homes, they increasingly appreciate the value of surrounding themselves with authentic art like a surfboard art for home decor. Original works add richness and originality to a space, and when purchased from local artists, they give the home a sense of provenance. A handmade acrylic painting of the surrounding landscape by a local artist can make your coastal home feel truly unique.
Elevate Your Space with Wallpaper
While wallpaper might not be the first thing that comes to mind for coastal decor, it can be an excellent way to enhance a coastal space. There are some fantastic wallpapers that complement, rather than detract from, natural beauty. For example, marine life-themed wallpaper works wonderfully in a powder room, while more abstract, nature-inspired designs are ideal for larger spaces.
Don’t Overthink Coastal Design
Coastal design should be inspired by nature and kept simple. It’s about creating a cool and effortless vibe, using colors inspired by the sky, sand, and sea. Incorporate warm, woven furniture made of rattan or wicker, along with decorative accents like seagrass baskets, colored glass, and organic prints. These elements contribute to a relaxed, casual atmosphere without feeling cluttered.
Blue: The Quintessential Coastal Color
When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with blue. A soft palette of grays, washed-out blues, whites, and sandy hues inspired by the ocean is perfect for creating a coastal look. Blue is also a versatile choice for tablescapes. Adding handcrafted sea glass or other ocean-inspired decor can complete the look with coastal charm.
Transitioning from Farmhouse to Coastal
Farmhouse style has been a dominant design trend in recent years, and it shares many elements with coastal decor. If you’re looking to transition from farmhouse to coastal, it’s easier than you might think. Light or weathered wood finishes and accessories like baskets or rope pieces can help you move from farmhouse to coastal chic. Look for furniture and accessories that blend seamlessly with both styles, making the transition effortless.
Conclusion
As coastal design continues to evolve, it remains a timeless choice for creating spaces that feel both relaxing and refined. By incorporating elements like light color palettes, natural textures, local artwork like a surfboard decorations for walls, and subtle architectural features, you can transform your home into a coastal retreat, no matter where you live. Whether you’re looking to make a few updates or completely overhaul your space, these tips will help you achieve the perfect balance of sophistication and coastal charm.