Which Coastal Styles Use Neutral Colours?

 

Neutral Colours In Coastal Interiors

 

If you are looking for a timeless interior with a coastal feel, then consider any of these popular coastal design styles for some inspiration…

If you want timelessness, elegance and sophistication, then neutrals could be just what your space needs. But with so many different trends within this broad category of style, which design styles use a neutral colour palette in coastal interiors? We have rounded up some of the most popular coastal interior design styles that utilise muted hues when it comes to achieving an effortless aesthetic.

 

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coastal interiors and the neutral colour palette

Coastal interior design is a popular theme that conjures up images of the beach, sea, and sand. In recent years, this aesthetic has been transformed into a more serene and elegant style, emphasising a neutral colour palette. Shades of white, beige, and soft grey create a calming atmosphere that is both sophisticated and beautifully timeless. This type of design complements the relaxed nature of coastal living, emphasising natural elements such as wood, woven fabrics, and seashell accents. Whether you live by the shore or not, incorporating a coastal-inspired interior into your home brings a sense of tranquility and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Neutral colours are versatile and can complement a variety of coastal design elements such as natural wood textures, ocean wall art, and nautical decor. Additionally, they are timeless and never go out of style, making neutrals a smart choice for anyone looking for an elegant look.

So, if you’re looking for a timeless interior with a coastal feel, then consider any of these design styles for inspiration…

 

Modern Mediterranean style

whites, beiges, light blues, yellows and greens

The first style to consider is Modern Mediterranean. This look evokes a sense of luxury and grandeur through warm tones inspired by the coast. Rich hues of terracotta, ochre and burnt orange are the focal point, while plenty of white and beige offer a grounding effect — as well as light blues, yellows and greens — a colour scheme that is clean and fresh.

This calming palette brings a sense of relaxation to any space and is reminiscent of the beautiful coastal regions of the Mediterranean. Whether you're decorating a beach house or just want to add a touch of coastal flair to your home, this style is versatile and perfect for any room.

California casual style

muted tones and earthy colours

This style of decorating is inspired by the laid-back atmosphere of the west coast and features plenty of natural materials, such as wood, rattan and stone. When it comes to California style, muted tones and earthy colours reign supreme. From sandy beiges to warm browns, the California Casual style is perfect for those who want to look effortlessly chic without trying too hard. It's all about keeping things simple, comfortable, and stylish.

Modern Hamptons style

whites, beiges with touches of Light blue

The Modern Hamptons style has been made popular by many home decorating magazines. This look takes inspiration from the more traditional Hamptons style, but with a much more modern spin. The colour palette is inspired by the iconic Hamptons style, featuring an elegant combination of whites, beiges, and a touch of blue for a subtle pop of colour. The perfect combination for creating a timeless look that is elegant yet cosy. The result is a timeless and effortless look that exudes class and comfort.

Coastal Grandmother Style

Sun-Bleached whites, Beige, and Light Blue

The overall palette of the Coastal Grandmother style aims for an uncomplicated, breezy look that feels connected to the simplicity and tranquility of the seaside. Keeping colours soft and neutral with touches of ocean blue creates an uplifting, serene environment evocative of sun-kissed days by the water.

The core colour palette for coastal grandmother decor leans neutral, with plenty of white, beige, and light blue. White is used abundantly to evoke the sun-bleached look of a weathered beach house. Off-white walls and white painted furniture keep the look clean but not stark. Beige and other soft neutrals like pale gray add warmth and approachability. Pops of light blue reminiscent of sea and sky provide color that is refreshing but not overpowering. Accessories in ocean-inspired hues like seafoam green or pale coral can provide accent colours that align with the coastal vibe.

Coastal Quiet Luxury Style

Off-whites and soft muted tones

The Coastal Quiet Luxury aesthetic aims to capture the refined yet relaxed essence of enjoying the seaside. The colour palette focuses on creating a soothing, luxurious environment inspired by the oceanfront. Creamy off-whites and soft dove grey make up the core neutral backdrop for coastal quiet luxury spaces.

These muted tones keep things calm and airy. Oceanic blue is used judiciously as an accent in this refined coastal style. Deeper navy or inky blue tones add sophisticated personality. Soft powdery blue-grey that calls to mind sea mist or weathered driftwood also fits within the palette. Overall, the coastal quiet luxury palette aims for tranquility and refinement. Neutrals accented by soft oceanic blues and naturals create a peaceful atmosphere reminiscent of walking along pristine white sand beaches. It embraces the spirit of the coastline with an elevated, sophisticated sensibility.


There are other styles that use the neutral colour palette such as French Country and the Scandi style:

French country style

muted blues, beiges and warm yellows

French country style is a timeless design that exudes a rustic charm and effortless elegance. With its muted blues, beiges, and warm yellows, this style is perfect for those looking for a neutral colour palette that still offers a visual punch. The subdued hues create a calming effect that evokes the serenity of rural France. Add in natural materials like wood, stone, and linen, and you've got a winning combination that will transport you to the French countryside in no time. From cosy cottages to grand chateaus, French country style is versatile and adaptable, making it the perfect choice for any home.

Scandinavian Minimalist style

whites, greys, creams, and pale blues

Scandinavian minimalist style has become increasingly popular in recent years, with its simplistic yet elegant approach to home design. Characterised by a neutral colour palette of whites, greys, creams, and pale blues, this style promotes a sense of calm and tranquility in any living space. The use of natural materials such as wood and linen also adds to the warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether it's a cosy bedroom or a spacious living room, Scandinavian minimalist style can transform any area into a sanctuary of simplicity and aesthetic appeal.


Coastal interior design is the perfect style to create a soothing and relaxed atmosphere in your home. With a neutral colour palette choices, you have the flexibility to inject different stylish elements along with the addition of colourful accents pieces if desired. The Modern Mediterranean, California Casual, Modern Hamptons, or minimalist Scandi style are all amazing options when using this specific approach for creating your coastal inspired home. With these decor styles there is something for just about everyone; charming whites and beiges complemented by light blues, yellows greens and added warm touches for inspiration. So no matter what level of luxury you desire, there's certainly an ocean inspired look waiting to be created.

PS: Creating a vision board can help clarify your style preferences and ensure that your design choices are cohesive and complementary, find some inspiration on some of our vision boards and read how to create a vision board yourself.

Neutral colours play a significant role in coastal interiors as they create a relaxed atmosphere that is reminiscent of the coast. In this style, neutrals such as beige, creams, and soft greys imitate the natural tones seen in the sand, seashells, and driftwood found along the beach. These colours are known for their ability to reflect light and create an open, airy feeling, making them a perfect choice for a bright and spacious coastal home.

 
 

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You Might Also Be Interested In:

>> NEUTRAL HOME

>> Coastal Interior Design Styles

>> COASTAL PAINT COLOURS

 
 
Elke Bretz