When it comes to coastal interiors, there's a fine line between stylishly inspired and overtly themed. We all love the idea of bringing the beauty of the coast indoors, but no one wants a living room that feels like a souvenir shop. So how do you design a home that captures the breezy, relaxed essence of the shore without going overboard?
Here’s how to embrace coastal living with elegance, restraint, and a unique personality.
Choose a Soft, Natural Palette
The most effortless way to start is with color. Skip the bright nautical blues and anchor motifs, and instead opt for a more muted palette that brings in the outside without looking like the yacht club. Think warm creams, soft whites, sandy beiges, driftwood grays, and gentle sea-glass blues. These colors reflect the natural tones of the coast without screaming beach house.
Design Tip: Pull inspiration directly from your surroundings. If your coastal view includes tall grasses, golden sands, or foggy skies—use those hues as your base to build around.
Layer Textures for Depth
Texture is everything in a modern coastal home. Incorporate elements that have warm woods, woven light fixtures, linen drapery, and even linen art. Think beyond the typical and incorporate elements like:
- Woven light fixtures (go BIG)
- Occasional Wood Chairs
- Linen drapery
- Grass cloth wallpaper
These tactile materials mimic the raw beauty of coastal nature without needing literal references.
Design Tip: Use grass cloth wallpaper on the ceiling for a WOW effect – trust us – it looks amazing!
Functional, Beach-Friendly Furniture
Beach living means sand, humidity, and plenty of in-and-out foot traffic. Choose furniture that can keep up with your lifestyle:
- Slipcovered sofas for easy cleaning
- Performance fabrics that resist moisture and fading
- Nesting tables made from concrete or marble nesting tables
These choices are smart and stylish, making your home feel curated rather than cluttered.
Art That Echoes, Not Imitates
Instead of obvious beach-themed prints, opt for art that’s inspired by the movement, colors, and spirit of the coast. Abstract watercolors, horizon-inspired pieces, and sculptural wall hangings in natural materials can all give a nod to the beach without being cliché.
Design Tip: Let your walls tell a story that connects to the landscape, not compete with it.
Play with Layered Rugs
A well-layered rug setup brings warmth and character to coastal rooms. A flat natural fiber rug (like jute or sisal) under a soft, patterned area rug can ground the space while adding that earthy, relaxed vibe you want in a beachside home.
Less is More
Ultimately, the chicest coastal homes don't feel themed—they feel intentional. It’s about restraint, elegance, and creating a space that mirrors the calming energy of the shore, without relying on overused motifs. Avoid the shells, skip the anchors, and instead lean into your atmosphere -- breezy, grounded, and beautiful.
When you live near the beach, the beauty of the coast should influence your design style. The key to going with a coastal look with elegance is to not overdo it. Lean into coastal living without having it take over your overall look.
