As a design firm located in a beach town, we end up doing a lot of coastal design. Bringing a bit of the seaside into a home can mean elegance and relaxation, but it can also turn into a conglomerate of mismatched bobbles and rustic signs, which doesn’t always evoke that serene seashore feel. Coastal design should be light, airy, and bring in a sense of serenity—just like the ocean. So, If you’re looking to add a coastal feel to your home, here are a few tips to do just that.
Use a Fresh and Airy Color Palette
Most people think “blue” when they think “beach.” And, while blue certainly fits the bill, almost any color scheme can work for coastal design. The most important concept to keep in mind is that the palette you choose should be fresh and light. Blues, greens, tans, and whites can all do the trick!
Add Texture
Seaside vibes always include texture. Think about being down by the water—there are palm trees, seaweed, sand, water, shells—texture is everywhere. To add visual character into a home, we like to use grasscloth wallpaper, natural seagrass or sisal rugs, as well as woven wood shades and accessories. These all include natural colors and fibers that bring in a sense of the seaside.
Seashore Accessories
The details are what truly make a coastal design—plus, it’s the fun part! First, start with tropical plants like a Double Fish-Tail or Kentia Palm trees. This is a super easy way to bring in a bit of the tropics. Next, try to find natural accessories like coral or shells, while also keeping in mind their proportion. Remember, if you’re filling a large room, then bigger accessories are necessary. Also, if you’re on a beachside vacation and looking for a souvenir to display at home, skip the “This Way to the Beach” sign. Instead, find something more natural like shells and sand you can display in a pretty jar and keep as a memory.
Shoreline Art
When it comes to art, there are so many beautiful options that can bring in shoreline colors. Whether you like photography or paintings, both can play a part in creating a serene coastal vibe. We love a good watercolor seascape or even black and white photographs of beaches in your area.
More than anything, coastal design is about using color and design to usher in that same sense of serenity you feel at the beach. We hope these few tips help on your journey to a home with that relaxed and peaceful ambiance. Thanks for reading!