Understanding the Coastal Design Style
The coastal design style is one of the most popular and versatile interior design themes. As the name suggests, it draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the seaside, including elements such as sand, surf, and sky. It captures the essence of the ocean with a range of textures, colors, and materials that aim to bring the outdoors in. This design style is often found in homes close to the coast, but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate it into your inland property. It’s a style that is perfect for those who want to create a relaxing, peaceful ambiance in their living space, making it feel like a beachside getaway. Whether you live by the water or not, the coastal style can create the perfect retreat in your home.Incorporating Natural Elements into Your Home
The coastal design style is all about reflecting natural elements of the sea in your home. One of the best ways to accomplish this is through the use of natural materials that evoke the feeling of the beach. Here are some materials common in a coastal style home:- Rattan or wicker furniture
- Jute, sisal or seagrass rugs
- Wooden panels or ceiling beams
- Stone or pebble accents
- Nautical rope
Choosing Color Palettes for a Coastal Theme
The color palette of a coastal themed home is one of the most important aspects of achieving the perfect look. The colors should be light, airy and reminiscent of the seaside. Popular colors for a coastal theme include various shades of blue and green, sandy beige, and white. You can also add pops of color to your space with nautical accents in red, navy blue, or bright yellow. Pro-tip: If you’re unsure of which colors to choose, take a cue from nature. Look to the colors present in the sky, water, and sand to inspire your palette.Using Texture to Add Depth and Character
Texture is a key element when designing a coastal-themed space. It’s the texture that gives depth and character to the design. Here are some ideas for adding texture to your home:- Using textured fabrics like linen or cotton
- Incorporating woven accents like baskets or wall hangings
- Adding sea glass, shells or driftwood to your decor
- Using textures in the flooring such as sisal or jute rugs
- Creating focal points with a patterned wallpaper or a unique piece of artwork
Finding Sea-Inspired Decor and Accessories
When decorating your coastal-themed home, the key is to keep it simple, yet beautiful. Here are some ideas for sea-inspired decor and accessories:- Hang a large mirror with a driftwood frame to create a focal point in the room
- Add nautical pillows or throws to your sofa
- Invest in a set of seashell bookends to display your favorite books
- Place a vase of seagrass or palm fronds on the mantle or coffee table
- Hang a gallery wall of ocean-inspired art
Mixing Coastal Elements with Other Design Styles
You don’t have to stick to a strict coastal theme. In fact, mixing coastal elements with other design styles can make for a more interesting and unique space. For instance:- Boho coastal: A fusion of beachy and bohemian styles that feature natural and organic materials, bold patterns, and colorful accents.
- Industrial coastal: Combining rougher, hard-edged designs such as raw wood or iron with softer, beachy accents like light tones and airy fabrics.
- Vintage coastal: A combination of coastal decor and vintage items such as weathered wood, antique pieces, and pastel colors.
DIY Projects for a Coastal Theme
One of the best ways to create a unique coastal themed home is by adding some DIY projects. Here are some ideas:- Create a seashell garland for your mantle or staircase
- Make your own driftwood or drift-sea glass picture frames
- Paint furniture with a distressed, beachy finish
- DIY coastal inspired coasters
- Make a seagrass basket for storage or as a decorative piece