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COASTAL STYLE
“Coastal interior design — Creating a space that is contemporary whilst keeping it timeless and effortlessly stylish with series of sensations to be experienced every day.”
Coastal design is all about subtle casual chic, a laidback aesthetic, and a relaxing vibe.
Coastal interior design is often associated with Nautical or the Hamptons style. But, it is really a style that evokes a feeling of tranquility and comfort. The ‘coastal style’ is gaining popularity and its decor is not restricted to living by the sea but reaches far inland.
Read on to find out more about the coastal style: what is ‘coastal’, the elements of the style, and the benefits of living by the sea. There are different types of coastal styles. They all do have similarities, but there are differences, as well. Let’s explore…
Coastal Style
Coastal style is a broad term encompassing several interior design styles – from classic Hamptons chic, Tropical styles, casual Californian vibes to the warm Mediterranean style through to the natural muted colours and textured finishes featured in Scandinavian and Japandi designs.
Coastal interiors provide a bright and airy vibe that captures the essence of the beach lifestyle. Its inviting atmosphere creates a relaxed environment in any space, with colours and textures that evoke feelings of nature and tranquility. There are many styles to choose from, including traditional pastel colours for a subtle look; vibrant and modern pieces for a bolder statement; or natural earth tones for an understated yet impactful design. With a focus on functionality, minimisation of clutter, and thoughtful accents, this type of interior design is sure to create a stunning space that both looks and feels good.
Coastal design usually incorporates many natural elements. Simply let the coastal landscape guide you. Think natural textures like rope, shell, and rattan, earthy ceramics, jute grass rugs, woven baskets, shades of blues and greens; and reclaimed timber, weathered white-washed wooden furniture (especially pale and white textured woods such as blond maple or ash) — all these elements can instantly create a coastal ambiance; and truly create a beautiful multi-sensory experience. We are in love with those worn smooth, bleached out and whitewashed woods, earth tones, layered blues and crisp whites — my home bathes in them. An abundance of light may be the most important coastal style element, lots and lots of natural light. Amplify light and allow the light to blur the lines between the indoors and out, and create the feeling that everything just flows…
Read on for some inspiration as we explore different coastal interior design approaches and discuss how to successfully achieve the look and feel of ‘coastal’.
“Incorporate natural materials as much as possible - this gives a feel of stylish simplicity and allows the senses to connect with the coastal landscape — reinvigorating the sensation of living.”
The Coastal Way
Coastal interior design is a creative, timeless way to transform a house into a home. Coastal design can be found in different homes all around the world–from the white sand beaches of the Caribbean to luxurious beachside villas. Whether you are drawn to the ease and simplicity of traditional styles such as Classic Hamptons or Nautical — or you are more interested in modern refinements such as Modern Mediterranean or Modern Hamptons there is a coastal interior design style that fits your tastes and budget.
Whatever style you decide to embrace for your living spaces, make sure to bring your own style and flair to it. The most important part about any type of design is that it should reflect who you really are – that’s what makes it truly special.
“Make no apology for imperfection, in fact, cherish it. It is beautiful in its own unintended way.”
Coastal ColourS
The colour blue is typically associated with qualities such as openness, credibility, trust, depth and wisdom. Coastal colours are ever so versatile — they can be inspired by the hues of the sand, the sea, or sky. Even depending on the time of day you want to reflect, the hues can range from warm to cool. Crisp whites and neutrals typically form the basis of a coastal interior. Accent colours typically include neutrals, such as a warmer beige, light blues, warm or cool greys, and greens.
The colour palette can be tailored to your taste with shades of blue of different depths and crisp whites for a Mediterranean vibe, warm tones of whites and pale blue or green shades for a country coastal look, bright and vibrant coral paired with seafoam green or turquoise for an exotic or Tropical coastal style. Shades of soft greys create a light and breezy Hamptons style. Whereas navy blue lends itself to create a more Nautical theme. Incorporate tonal neutrals to mix the various shades together, or opt for a white style.
TEXTURES
Think about beach finds; shells, rocks, sea glass, etc. Layer those textures together whilst keeping fabrics simple and unassuming. What I am trying to say is don’t layer them to the point of kitsch… Consider linen slipcovers, cotton rugs and floaty sheers. Emphasise organic textures like woven materials, chunky throws and wicker. Layered natural textures capture the essence of a coastal feel. Natural fibre seagrass area rugs add a sense of luxurious texture.
PATTERNS
Brightly coloured scatter cushions or fabrics with a subtle inky blue silhouette coupled with neutrals supplement the coastal look. Teaming a fabric sofa with ticking stripe fabrics or tie-dye, and block-print patterns in rich indigo blues oozes a carefree coastal feeling. Choose minimalist or abstract beach-themed art or patterns.
ACCESSORIES
Coastal decor is a mixture of classic and timeless elements with a relaxed and calming flair. Accessories with a driftwood finish are very effective to achieve a subtle oceanic look. Creating a subtle beach house interior is all about uncluttered accessorising. Coastal decor is about incorporating a style that is simplistic and feels like a breath of fresh air.
FLORALS AND BOTANICALS
Lush plants like succulents, air plants, terrariums, ornamental grasses, cacti or palms decorate the interior of a beach inspired home beautifully.
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‘LIVING BY THE SEA’
“Coastal design creates a contrast between the polished and the worn. It adds beauty in a sincere way. The worn and the new compliment each other in a very symbiotic way. Our emphasis is on creating a relaxing and informal environment — a space to relax.”
“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
Living By The Sea
Being near water makes us happier … water has both positive cognitive and physical effects; and contact with water induces a meditative state of mind that makes us happier, and calmer. The book Blue Mind, by marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols focuses on the scientific evidence that being close to water promotes mental health and happiness.
According to Nichols "water boosts creativity, can enhance the quality of conversations and provides a backdrop to important parts of living — like play, romance and grieving." (It is worth watching Dr. Wallace J. Nichols’ TEDx Talk: Exploring Our Blue Mind.)
“Blue Health” — The Benefits Of The Sea
The ocean provides many health and wellbeing benefits. The big '“blue” is a source of calm and tranquility for the mind, it provides nutritious food such as fish and shellfish which are a great source of protein and vitamins (A+D), minerals including iodine, and seaweed provides omega-3 acids. The sea also provides important pharmaceuticals, such as extracts derived from seaweeds, corals, or marine sponges - just to name a few, which show therapeutic properties.
Living near water, “lowers stress and anxiety, increasing an overall sense of well-being and happiness, a lower heart and breathing rate, and safe, better workouts. Aquatic therapists are increasingly looking to the water to help treat PTSD, addiction, anxiety disorders, autism, and more,” says Dr. Wallace J. Nichols. Saltwater is especially helpful as it elevates the levels of melatonin, serotonin and tryptamine, which help with keeping away and managing depression.
Sea air has long been associated with good health; helping to improve lung function and aiding respiratory problems. Nature generates negative ions in the form of air molecules - which are in abundance in areas by the sea. Negative ions help with oxygen flow to the brain, thereby giving us more energy and improving one’s mood. According to some studies, there is even link between the sound of waves and brain patterns resulting in lower depression, less anxiety, mental clarity, and better sleep patterns. Water truly has a calming effect on the mind.
The sea also provides plenty of opportunity for physical activities (such as coastal walks, swimming, surfing, body boarding, aqua jogging, beach yoga or meditation, etc.) aiding not only one’s physical exercise but also impacting self-esteem and psychological health.
Being around water allows us to revert to our ‘blue mind,’ a place where we can find a little escapism from the constant over stimulation that comes with modern life. A place where the mind has the chance to restore and rejuvenate itself.
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‘Types Of Coastal Styles’
“A textural fusion of coastal simplicity. We love to bring together traditional craftsmanship, tactile and organic materials and unique finds that have a story to tell. It allows the senses to connect with the coastal landscape — reinvigorating the sensation of living.”
What coastal style is right for me
Coastal design styles bring a sense of relaxation, ease, and comfort by capturing elements from the coast and bringing them into the home. However, not all coastal designs are alike. Each design style is distinct in its own way and can be identified based on certain key characteristics. For example, Hamptons style incorporates light blues and sandy pinks for a bold but classic look; Mediterranean style decor is characterised by vibrant tile-work, stucco exteriors, and bold statement pieces that capture the essence of the Mediterranean sea; whilst Bohemian is characterised by lots of textures and colours as well as quirky accessories that add boho flair to any given space for an eclectic yet surprisingly sophisticated vibe — whether you prefer the modern aesthetic of a beach house, the traditional cottage style, or the laid-back vibes of a nautical escape–is a decision that should be made with both practicality and personal preference in mind.
Despite their differences in styling strategies, all these styles share common features: an open feel, neutral colours, relaxed furnishings, textures from nature (like driftwood or shells), and plenty of natural sunlight. Look into your individual wants and needs and consider what atmosphere you’re hoping to create in your space. Whether you’re trying to mimic certain elements from each look or looking for unique ways to integrate it into your own home environment, coastal styles provide creative inspiration for any interior space.
Modern Coastal Versus Traditional
When it comes to coastal living, one other popular debate is whether modern or traditional styles are more desirable. Modern coastal interior design styles strive to bring a sense of luxury and modernity to a classical beach home setting with its sharp lines and bright colours. Traditional coastal emphasises natural elements that evoke the beach itself, utilising neutral colours and simple materials that match what you would see at the shore. This can range from simple rough-hewn driftwood furniture, seashell embellishments or even a jute rug in its classic conch shape.
Both styles are equally beautiful, but still retain their unique advantages depending on how you want your space to feel while still embodying a timeless beach home aesthetic.
Coastal ‘Personalities’
Each type of coastal design trend has its own distinct personality. Nautical designs feature bright colours, bold patterns, and nautical-themed accents for a fun, upbeat atmosphere. Coastal styles draw influence from the sand and sea with colours that evoke tropical climates and lighter decor elements. Coastal Farmhouse style embraces rustic elements such as natural woods, muted colours, and soft textures to bring a more relaxed feel to any space. For something a bit outside the box, Zen-inspired coastal aesthetics feature natural materials along with minimalist furniture and neutral colours to promote balance and tranquility in the home.
By researching the characteristics, vibes and design choices as well as the materials and colour palettes associated with the various coastal styles, you can make an educated decision when it comes time to choose what look is right for you.
“There must be something strangely sacred in salt. It is in our tears and in the sea.”
All of the various coastal styles have a few similarities and differences that make each style unique.
Coastal living is synonymous to a mood that evokes calm, relaxation, casual and comfort. Casual doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice elegance. Be inspired, let us take you on a journey to explore the various coastal styles in more detail.