The beach is somewhere we go to relax, put our toes in the sand and soak up the sun, all while taking in the natural beauty of the open water. These elements create such a soothing ambiance that we want to design the inside of our homes in a way that mirrors the sun-kissed breeze and sense of relaxation − without the mess of sand. The type of interior design that incorporates these traits is referred to as coastal design style.
What exactly is coastal design style?
Coastal design style consists of seaside elements and colors that come across as elegant, yet clean and simple. The style focuses on simplicity and the blending of all those beach elements together to create a picturesque scene of tranquility for your home. To help paint a better picture, here’s our breakdown of what makes coastal design style one of the most welcoming modern interior designs.
Characteristics of Coastal Design Style
Sand, driftwood, shells, and the light reflecting off the water, are just some of the many elements that are used as inspiration for coastal design style. Just like the beach, the key to remember with coastal design style is that nothing should be overwhelming. Coastal design style is all about open spaces and using natural light to create a soothing atmosphere throughout your home.
Some of the key ways to incorporate elements of coastal design style are:
- Embrace the open spaces: Keep rooms free of clutter to create an instant sense of calm.
- Use as much natural light as possible: We also recommend minimal window treatments when it comes to blinds and drapes.
- Aim to use a mixture of clean lines and colors with seaside accents: This will help create a soothing feeling throughout the home.
- Remember – moderation is everything: This style should look peaceful and effortless (but we understand it’s easy to get carried away.)
Additionally, feel free to add more coastal details by using rope, driftwood, and even shells around your living space to really bring out that seaside vibe.
Colors of Coastal Design Style
As we mentioned, the color schemes for coastal design style should be a mixture of neutrals with slight pops of color – like pairing sand with seafoam. Layering similar colors and shades is the best way to add dimension to your space, without going overboard.
Some of the primary colors associated with coastal design style are various shades of blue, green, beige, white, and coral (because they are all found naturally by the sea.) When deciding on your coastal color scheme, we recommend these tips:
- Your main colors should be white or a lighter sand-like tone: Think warm khaki colors as well as softer grays.
- Choose playful, yet subtle accent colors that come from the water: Aqua, seafoam, deep blue, or coral colors all go very well with the coastal aesthetic.
- Layer in other shades of sand (khaki) to add more dimension and lines to your living space.
Coastal Design Style Décor
Now that you know the general details and color palette for coastal design style, let’s discuss how to properly furnish your living space to make it feel like you’re relaxing by the beach every day of the year. You’re probably tired of us telling you to keep things simple, however, it’s no different when choosing décor.
Coastal design style furnishings combine natural elements such as wood and sand, while also including soft linen and glass-like textures to create that warm, comfortable feeling we get when arriving at the beach. When decorating your living space with coastal design style, here are several features you should keep in mind:
- Glass elevates the coastal look: From lamps, tables, jars, or mirrors, glass furnishings, recreate the peaceful scenery of the coast.
- Driftwood (or distressed wood) and rope are perfect accents: Using small amounts for furniture, lighting, or décor can really make your living space stand out without being too extra.
- Textures such as seagrass, straw, or woven textiles are great for rugs, while breezy fabrics or fabrics with texture are best for all pieces of furniture: This will help add even more dimension to your home.
- Feel free to add a variety of soft pillows or throws in your accent color: These will provide extra comfort for you and your guests, as well as add to the visual coastal styling.
If your current furniture setup isn’t exactly giving off that relaxing, oceanside feeling and could use a brighter facelift, we offer the best selection of furnishings to match your coastal design style. Contact us with any questions you may have!
Coastal design style is the perfect way to have a day at the beach, but in the comfort of your own home. In its own unique and passive display, coastal design style brings out all the best feelings and emotions of being by the water – no matter how far away you actually are from it.
Now that you’re feeling inspired and want to create a coastal living arrangement of your own (or add to an already soothing setup), shop our large selection of top-rated home furniture from trusted brands to really brighten up your space. Shop in-store or online today!