The coastal aesthetic is a timeless and relaxed decor style inspired by casual seaside living. It combines airy elegance with practical, weathered materials that can withstand the elements. Achieving this breezy look is easy with the right blend of colors, textures, and accessories. Read on to learn how to infuse your home with materials that will steer your style into classic coastal.
Embrace Natural Textures and Materials
The foundation of the coastal look is natural, organic textures that promote laidback comfort. Weathered, reclaimed woods, driftwood, rattan, wicker, and bamboo are ideal choices to bring a sense of the outdoors inside.
Whitewashed Wood
Whitewashed and distressed wood adds instant charm and character. Use it for:
- Flooring – Wide plank floors made from reclaimed wood or pale unfinished oak evoke a beach house vibe.
- Furniture – Whitewashed tables, dressers, cabinets, and bookshelves provide a light coastal base.
- Accents – Cut wood planks can be hung on walls. Old oars, salvaged shutters, and unique finds make great wall art.
- Built-ins – White wooden bookshelves built around a fireplace or entertainment center have timeworn appeal.
Driftwood and Wicker
Incorporate natural driftwood, bamboo, or wicker baskets, shelves, trunks, and furniture accents. Their organic texture brings the textures of sand and sea inside.
Rattan and Seagrass
The woven texture of rattan and seagrass furniture, rugs, baskets, and lampshades imparts casual elegance. Use them in place of traditional upholstered pieces.
Select Relaxed, Neutral Colors
Coastal style relies on light, neutral shades inspired by the colors found at the beach – sand, seashells, driftwood, and sea glass.
Soothing Whites
- White paint is ideal for walls, trim, and ceilings to evoke sun-drenched seaside cottages. Try different whites like bright white, ivory, and warm antique white.
- White slipcovered sofas and chairs are a coastal classic. They repel sand and can be cleaned easily.
- Sheer white window curtains filter bright sunlight. Hang them high to frame ocean views.
Natural Tones
- Light beiges, creams, and earthy taupes recreate the hues of coastal dunes and sand. Use on larger pieces like sofas or beds.
- Pale oak or whitewashed wood floors have the weathered patina of driftwood.
- Jute or sisal rugs in natural undyed shades are inherently casual.
Cool Blues
- Soft powdery blues are reminiscent of clear coastal skies and shallow sea water. Use it for accent pieces or smaller furnishings.
- Navy blue adds a classic nautical touch. Try nautical striped pillows or a dark blue area rug.
Make a Statement with Pops of Color
To keep the look from becoming too bland, inject bright pops of color reminiscent of the hues found at the beach. Use them sparingly on accessories, artwork, pillows, or rugs.
Cheery Citrus Tones
- Coral and salmon pinks mimic sea coral and tropical fish.
- Lime green and lemony yellow are energizing like ocean waves.
- Turquoise reflects the shades of the sea. Try turquoise vases or accent chairs.
Natural Greens
- Seafoam green and aqua have a natural watery feel.
- Sage green is the color of sea glass. Use it for pillows or ceramic accents.
Incorporate Coastal-Inspired Fabrics and Textiles
The right assortment of breezy, beachy fabrics will transport your home to the seaside.
Airy Linens
Crisp linen or cotton fabrics in slipcovers, pillows, curtains, and bedding embody coastal casualness. The natural wrinkles and textures add to their appeal.
Sunny Chintzes
Cheery floral chintz on a chair or as window treatments imparts a cottage vibe. Look for large-scale floral prints.
Striped Seaside Fabrics
Navy and white stripe or awning stripe fabrics conjure up visions of seaside market awnings when used for cushions, drapes, and upholstery.
Textured Jute and Seagrass
Natural jute and seagrass rugs, baskets, and beach bags add organic texture.
Display Coastal Cottage-Style Accessories
Finish off the look with decor accessories that convey the essence of coastal living. These charming accents will steer your style to a breezy, beachy environment.
Shells and Coral
Display a collection of seashells, starfish, coral, sand dollars, and sea glass in glass bowls, jars, or trays. Group items together on a console table, shelf, or wall gallery.
Clear Glass Objects
Clear glass lamp bases, vases, bowls, and candle holders evoke the translucent nature of water and allow light to pass through.
Ceramic Pitchers
Ceramic pitchers for fresh flowers capture the cottage spirit. Opt for blues, greens, and pure white.
Natural Elements
Incorporate natural elements like sea fans, driftwood, starfish, and sand dollars. Place them on bookshelves, mantels, and tabletops.
Textured Throws
Cozy textured throws in cotton, linen, or chunky knits lend comfort. Layer them on sofas or beds.
Sailboat Models
For fun, display a sailboat model or two. Opt for different sizes and simplistic styles.
Pick Timeless Coastal Furniture
Choosing the right furniture is key to steering your style to the relaxed coastal look. Focus on clean-lined wood pieces and slipcovered upholstery.
Wood Furniture
- Whitewashed wood sideboards, consoles, dining tables
- Driftwood side tables and coffee tables
- Rattan chairs, stools, and settees
- Wicker trunks and baskets
Upholstered Furniture
- Linen slipcovered sofas and chairs
- Cotton canvas director’s chairs
- Washable indoor/outdoor upholstery
Metal and Wrought Iron
- Iron canopy beds
- Metal and teak outdoor dining sets
- Wrought iron accent tables
The coastal furniture vibe is unfussy and relaxed. Steer clear of ornate carved wood pieces and focus on practicality and charm.
Use Coastal-Style Window Treatments
Your window treatments should complement the laidback coastal decor. Here are some breezy options that filter light and soften ocean views:
- Airy linen or cotton curtains in relaxed lengths
- Natural bamboo shades
- Whitewashed wood shutters
- Woven seagrass or bamboo blinds
- Simple hardware like driftwood rods and natural fiber tiebacks
Avoid heavy drapes and ornamental trims. Let the natural light shine through with casual, breezy styles.
Embrace the Coastal Look Outdoors
Your outdoor living spaces should also exude the casual seaside spirit. Use these tips:
- Whitewash outdoor furniture like patio seating, dining sets, and coffee tables.
- Add texture with seagrass or sisal rug accents.
- Use crushed shells or pebbles on walkways.
- Install a white picket fence or railing around porches or decks.
- Display your coastal finds and shells in outdoor containers.
- Plant beachy greenery like palms, grasses, and sea lavender.
Creating continuity from your interior to exterior enhances the relaxed vibe.
Achieve the Coastal Look Room by Room
Each space in your home presents an opportunity to infuse coastal materials and accessories.
Coastal Living Room
- Whitewashed wood coffee table
- Wicker side chairs
- Neutral slipcovered linen sofa
- Jute rug
- Shells in glass bowl
- Sailboat model on console table
Coastal Dining Room
- Reclaimed wood dining table
- Rattan host chairs
- Woven seagrass rug
- Blue and white ceramics
- Glass hurricane candles
- Shell garland on wall
Coastal Bedroom
- White iron canopy bed
- Light blue and white bedding
- Nightstands made from reclaimed wood
- Natural fiber baskets for storage
- Whitewashed shutter closet doors
- Driftwood lamp bases
Coastal Bathroom
- Weathered wood open shelves
- Sea glass and shell soap dispensers
- White wicker hamper
- Blue and white striped shower curtain
- Mirror framed with driftwood
- Ceramic fish wall hooks
Maintain Your Coastal Style Over Time
The coastal look withstands everyday living. Here are some tips to keep it looking its beachy best:
- Vacuum slipcovers and area rugs frequently to remove sand.
- Dust natural fiber light fixtures to prevent buildup.
- Wipe down wicker, rattan, and wood with a soft cloth and mild cleanser.
- Re-whitewash furniture pieces whenever the finish looks dingy.
- Freshen up your shells, coral, and glass collections by swapping items out seasonally.
- Replace faded outdoor cushions and pillows to keep your patio looking crisp.
With some basic care, you can maintain the breezy charm of your coastal oasis for years. The casual materials are inherent forgiving and easy to refresh.
FAQ About Steering Your Style to Coastal
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about achieving the coastal look:
Is coastal style still in for 2023?
Yes, coastal style remains a perennial favorite because it is casual, relaxed, and livable. The natural textures and soft color palette withstand time and trends.
What paint colors work best for a coastal cottage?
Light neutrals like cloud white, seashell, or pale sand are ideal coastal wall colors. For trims and ceilings, use bright whites or antique whites with subtle grey undertones.
Should I use wallpaper in a coastal home?
Subtle tone-on-tone wallpaper can work in a coastal home if the pattern is understated. Avoid large, bold prints. Grasscloth adds nice texture.
What flooring options suit the coastal look?
Wood or wood-look plank flooring is most fitting. Opt for whitewashed oak or grey washed wood colors. Jute sisal or seagrass area rugs complement wood floors.
How do I decorate my coastal themed mantel?
Adorn it simply with weathered wood corbels, a large vase, shells, starfish, framed sea art, and clustered candles for breezy casual styling. Avoid clutter.
Bring Coastal Charm Home
Creating a coastal oasis filled with natural woods, casual fabrics, and weathered accents is an inviting, livable style suitable for every season. By incorporating the right blend of materials and accessories detailed here, you can steer your home decor to achieve an easy coastal look and feel. Spend your days surrounded by breezy simplicity inspired by seaside cottages, and enjoy the charming style all year long.
