The allure of the savage beauty of the ocean has encouraged people for centuries. Its vast expanse, soothing sounds, and sense of serenity have inspired many to bring the essence of the sea into their homes through
coastal interior design. Although the style has changed over time, its essence remains constant: bringing calm, breezy vibes into your home. But how can you bring out this soothing ambience in your own abode? Explore our design recommendations to find out!
Select Soothing Neutral Tones
Coastal colour palettes tend to use soft, neutral shades, as these colours are reminiscent of sand, seashells, and ocean mist. Use calming hues like beige, tan, light grey, and white on walls or larger pieces of furniture to create an enveloping seaside feel. Then integrate with pale blue, sage green, or sandy brown for crisp contrast. The overall effect should be light, airy, and soothing. Avoid bright, saturated colours that can feel jarring.
Window Magic
Windows offer the perfect opportunity to infuse your living space with a burst of radiance. Opt for flowing, white curtains that evoke a sense of breeziness, and ensure your window treatments maintain a light and airy feel. As the sun's gentle rays filter through, your room will bask in the warmth reminiscent of a summer day. If your windows lack a waterfront view, consider hanging a large print photo of waves crashing or a salty ocean scene. This clever trick can create the illusion of gazing out onto the vast sea, even when you're miles away.
Bring in Natural Textures
Embracing natural fibres such as jute, rattan, seagrass, and driftwood is a wonderful way to introduce organic textures and evoke the relaxed charm of weathered beach cottages. Consider integrating basketweave patterns and woven wood elements into your rugs and accent furniture to enhance this coastal aesthetic. Distressed and reclaimed woods also lend a timeworn, shabby-chic look reminiscent of a treasured family heirloom. Add some houseplants or dried botanicals in white vases to reference seaside flora and dune grasses. This subtle touch pays homage to the beauty of seaside landscapes.
Relaxed Furniture for Easy Living
Coastal interior design places a strong emphasis on the selection of furniture that's perfectly suited for a laidback and comfortable lifestyle. Consider opting for a chaise lounge and plush chairs designed for ultimate relaxation, inviting you to sink in and unwind.
Modular sofas are an excellent choice for accommodating gatherings with family and friends.
When it comes to dining and accent tables, prioritise casually elegant round shapes over more formal rectangular options. This choice contributes to the overall relaxed vibe.
Don't underestimate the importance of ergonomic features, such as adjustable heights and swivel capabilities, which allow furniture to adapt to your ever-changing needs. Multi-functional pieces like sofa beds, ottomans with hidden storage compartments, and desks that support flexible living arrangements and make the most of smaller spaces.
Accessories That Tell a Story
Accessories provide opportunities to display treasures that connect you to favourite coastal memories. For surfaces, choose items like sea glass bowls and vases, driftwood trays, and ceramic vessels, as they mimic ocean waves and bubbles. Arranging an assortment of shells collected from your favourite beaches throughout the years in a shelving unit can turn each shelf into a delightful beachcomber's treasure trove. Hang multi-photo frames on the wall to display snapshots of sunny days spent at the seaside with family and friends. You can also hang artwork, mirrors, and macrames featuring anchors, ship wheels, and other nautical themes.
The sound, smells, and vistas of the sea provide a soothing effect to your space. By bringing the essence of the coast into your home through considered design choices, you can create a personal sanctuary immersed in seaside serenity. Keep colours cool and tranquil, let the natural light flow freely, and incorporate plenty of natural materials and textures.
