Introduction
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and in this week’s featured kitchen, we see how a light and airy coastal design with clever island seating can create a warm and welcoming space for family and friends to gather. Located in a beach house, this kitchen features elements that draw inspiration from the nearby oceanfront while offering smart and functional features for everyday use.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the various design elements that make this coastal kitchen so appealing. From the choice of finishes and materials to the unique island design and seating, we’ll see how the style honors the home’s seaside setting while still delivering a highly usable cooking and dining area. The thoughtful details and breezy elegance of this kitchen demonstrate how the coastal look can be adapted for any home seeking casual seaside charm.
Choice of Finishes and Materials
The light and neutral color scheme of this kitchen immediately evokes the colors of the beach. Crisp white cabinetry combined with warm wood floors creates an airy, uncluttered look that suits the coastal setting.
Instead of stark white, the cabinets have a subtle woven texture that adds visual interest while keeping the overall palette serene and calm. Dropping in some wood elements, like open shelving and a butcher block island countertop, prevents the space from feeling too sterile.
Natural materials connects the indoor area to the outdoor setting. Quartzite countertops have an organic pattern and fossilized shell fragments that mimic the look of weathered driftwood. The seaside scheme carries through to the small details as well, with shell-shaped handles and sconces.
Unique Island Design
The kitchen island is truly the focal point of this coastal space. An oversized island provides plenty of workspace, storage and seating while acting as a casual dining area for quick meals and entertaining.
Rather than typical bar stool seating, the designers got creative with the island chairs. Woven wicker stools add unexpected texture and reinforce the beachy vibe. The stools slide neatly underneath the countertop when not in use, creating a clean, uncluttered look.
This expandable island seating allows the homeowners to accommodate larger gatherings during holidays and summer parties. Friends and family can casually gather around the island for meals and cocktails while still interacting with the chefs prepping food at the center island.
Breezy, Relaxed Coastal Style
Several elements come together to create the breezy, relaxed style of this beach house kitchen. Light wood wall cladding adds warmth to the white cabinetry while referencing the home’s board-and-batten exterior.
Open shelves give some areas a more casual feel compared to the classic shaker cabinets. Displaying pretty dishware, baskets and cookbooks helps make the kitchen feel lived-in versus overly pristine.
The exposed ceiling beams and multiple windows with natural light evoke the easy, carefree ambiance of a seaside cottage. For the window treatments, the homeowners chose practical bamboo blinds that filter sunlight while complementing the relaxed aesthetic.
While luxurious, the kitchen doesn’t go overboard with ornamentation. The simple lines and limited decor allows the beautiful natural light and finishes to shine. The look is inviting rather than stuffy and formal.
Conclusion
This kitchen of the week demonstrates how thoughtful design choices can make a highly functional space equally enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing. Instead of overwhelming the home’s coastal setting, the light finishes, smart island design and casual details honor the surrounding beach landscape.
Elements like the woven barstools and quartzite countertops merge coastal charm with ingenious design for a kitchen that feels both fresh and approachable. For homeowners seeking a serene but social kitchen, this breezy coastal look provides plenty of smart ideas.
FAQs About Coastal Kitchen Design
What colors work best for a coastal kitchen design?
Light neutrals like white, sand and linen coupled with ocean-inspired blues and greens help create an airy, beachy look. Warm wood tones can add nice contrast. Avoid dark or bold colors that feel too heavy for a coastal kitchen.
What materials work well in a coastal kitchen?
Natural materials that reference the beach or ocean are great choices. Elements like wood, rattan, bamboo, driftwood and reclaimed materials bring in coastal texture. Quartzite countertops mimic the look of weathered seaside stones.
How do you incorporate a coastal vibe through decor?
Incorporate accents like shells, glass lampshades that mimic bubbles, ceramic starfish knobs, driftwood trays and woven baskets. Avoid clutter and let natural light shine. Showcase pretty dishware or distressed wood cutting boards.
How can you make a coastal kitchen functional for gatherings?
An oversized island with extra seating, plenty of counter space and high-quality appliances allow a coastal kitchen to work just as beautifully for entertaining as everyday use. Multi-purpose rooms adjacent to the kitchen are useful for larger parties.
What unique touches make this kitchen design stand out?
The woven wicker stools on casters that easily slide under the island are brilliant, providing concealed seating. The organic patterned quartzite and reclaimed wood open shelving give character while looking luxe. Exposed beams and abundant windows keep the space airy.
Coastal Kitchen Design Tips
- Stick to light neutrals for a calm, airy palette. Avoid dark or bold paint colors that feel heavy.
- Incorporate natural textures and materials like wood, rattan, quartzite and bamboo. This brings organic warmth.
- Showcase ocean-inspired colors with blue and green glass lampshades, dishware and tiles.
- Install large windows and skylights to allow ample natural light to flow in.
- Choose quartzite or soapstone countertops for an organic, weathered stone appearance.
- Add character with reclaimed wood shelves, beams or plank walls and ceilings.
- Opt for mostly classic shaker cabinets to keep the look relaxed but elegant.
- Display pretty ceramic pieces, shells and glassware instead of decorative knickknacks.
- Incorporate rattan or driftwood accents for an earthy, nature-inspired look.
- Consider open shelving in place of upper cabinets to prevent a stuffy feel.
- Use quartz, marble or porcelain for countertops over granite, which can look too bold.
- Add warmth and contrast with butcher block islands, wood banquettes or wooden barstools.
- Keep tableware, linens and dishware that coordinate with the color scheme on display.
- Install roman shades or bamboo blinds for soft, filtered window light.
- Plant indoor herbs or succulents to bring a touch of garden freshness indoors.
- Carry the coastal motif throughout the home for a cohesive design.
