Introducing Coastal Decor
Coastal decor is all about bringing the laidback vibe and calming energy of the ocean into your home. It’s a style that can be adapted to suit any space, from a beachside bungalow to a modern urban apartment. The key is to strike the right balance between the elements – colors, textures, and accessories – that evoke the ocean and beach without going overboard. Before embarking on designing a coastal-themed room in your home, consider what aspect of coastal life inspires you. It could be anything from the seafoam green of ocean waves to the sunshine yellow of beach umbrellas. Once you have an idea of what you want to highlight, you can select a color scheme, furnishings, and accessories that capture the essence of your chosen element.Choosing the Right Color Scheme
To create a coastal look, your color palette should reflect the tones and shades of the ocean, sand, and sky. Blue shades are the obvious choice, but you can also incorporate pastel greens, yellows, and pinks that reflect a sunrise or sunset. Neutrals like beige and white provide a calming backdrop to the bolder hues and can be used on walls, furniture, and flooring. Here are some color scheme ideas to kick-start your design process:- Sea and sand: blues, greens, and beiges
- Coral reef: coral, peach, and turquoise
- Sunset: oranges, yellows, and pinks
Adding Coastal Accessories
Accessories are a great way to add some coastal charm to your space without investing in costly renovations. Seashells, starfish, and driftwood are classic coastal design elements that can be used in a variety of ways, including:- Filling glass jars with seashells and placing them on windowsills, coffee tables or bookshelves
- Hanging framed seashell art on walls to bring the beach indoors
- Placing coral or driftwood on a mantel to create a natural focal point
Incorporating Natural Elements
Natural elements like wood, stone, and woven grasses can bring the outside in and add depth to your coastal design. Consider adding elements of organic materials like:- Rattan, wicker, or bamboo furniture
- Natural-fiber rugs
- Stone/brick fireplace
- Succulents
- Peace lilies
- Zanzibar gems
Selecting Beach-Inspired Furniture
When selecting coastal furniture, look for pieces that reflect seaside living. Quality furniture options include:- Slipcovered sofas and chairs in white or natural hues
- Distressed wood pieces that look as though they’ve been weathered by the sun and salt air
- Nautical-inspired pieces like driftwood tables or boat wheel wall décor
Creating a Cozy Coastal Atmosphere
A coastal-themed room should feel relaxed and comfortable, with a slight beachy vibe. Consider the following tips to create an atmosphere that feels cozy and inviting:- Hang white, sheer curtains on windows to filter in natural light and create a casual vibe.
- Add coastal colors to walls in the form of paint, wallpaper or wall decor.
- Utilize soft, ambient lighting, such as table lamps, lanterns, and candlelight to evoke a beachy look.
Avoiding Overdone Coastal Themes
When done poorly, a coastal decor theme can come across as tacky or too cheesy. Avoid this by not going overboard with the beach theme and sticking to the right elements. While adding a seashell here and there is charming, your space should not feel like a tourist trap. The most crucial point to remember is that coastal decor is a feeling that wants to be conveyed subtly and softly. Use just enough design elements to convey your intention, rather than overdoing it with every coastal inspired product you come across.Bringing It All Together: Final Tips and Tricks
In the end, decorating your home in a coastal style can be simple, if you follow some basic guidelines. Here are some final tips to keep in mind as you design your space:- Keep it simple.
- Stick to a consistent color palette.
- Use natural, sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood and organic cotton.
- Add decorative touches sparingly.
- Go for understated and natural themes, such as beach vintage and chic bohemian styles.
- Use texture and layering to add depth and richness to your interior.