Introduction
«A chic home makes you happy, and a happy home makes you chic!». — Jonathan Adler, an American potter, interior decorator, and author.
Imagine the soft sound of the waves lapping against the shore and the light salty breeze playing with the curtains on the windows. Coastal style in the interior is a beautiful philosophy that gives a feeling of freedom and serenity. It immerses us in the atmosphere of vacation idyll when every corner reminds us of our favorite summer days on the coast.
Why stay within the four walls of the city when you can create an oasis of peace and comfort right at home? This article reveals the secrets of a coastal style that refreshes and fills every room with light. Immerse yourself in a world of white beaches, turquoise water, and light textures, and learn how to create a design that is as light as a sea breeze and as deep as a bottomless ocean.
What is Coastal Design?
The aesthetic coastal style, made famous by the Hamptons (New York) luxury beach homes in the late 19th century, can permeate every detail of your home. It incorporates the best elements of nature and the coastline: bright ocean hues, warm sandy tones, and airy, cozy textures that evoke the fresh sea breeze. This interior style doesn't require elaborate solutions or expensive materials, favoring wood, stone, and soft fabrics. To add an accent, buy nautical accessories such as white and blue tones or an anchor.
Elements of Coastal Style
Color palette: The base comprises delicate shades of blue, turquoise, sand, and white. These colors are associated with the sea and the sky, giving the room freshness and lightness.
Natural materials
In coastal style, wood, linen, cotton, and stone take center stage, bringing in the elements of nature and adding a sense of authenticity to your decor.
Textures
A mix of different textures is welcome. For example, wicker baskets, soft cushions, and rough wood create a feeling of comfort and relaxation.
Decor
Incorporate seascape paintings, sunset photos, and seashells. Every detail should remind you of your favorite spot on the beach.
Lighting
Natural light is a critical element in coastal style, enhancing the overall ambiance and complementing the chosen color palette. Use light curtains to let the sunlight in, and select fixtures that evoke the feeling of lighthouses and boats.
Interior Doors
The best door choices are slabs with no decorative elements, which provide a simple, clean look that goes well with the style. However, minimalist doors with glass inserts, which fill the living space with light and create a cozy atmosphere, are also stunning! Popular colors include Bianco Noble, Gray Oak, and Polar White.
What is the Difference Between Coastal and Beachy Interior Design Styles?
Coastal and beachy interior design styles share similarities, as both draw inspiration from the sea but have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
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Style |
Coastal |
Beachy |
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Color palette |
Coastal design often features a more muted color palette with soft whites, light blues, and sandy neutrals. |
Beachy design is typically brighter and more vibrant, incorporating bold blues, sunny yellows, and vibrant corals. |
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Materials |
It emphasizes natural materials like wood, rattan, and linen, often focusing on quality and craftsmanship. |
While still using natural materials, beachy interiors often embrace a more relaxed and casual feel, featuring lighter woods and playful textiles that evoke a carefree vibe. |
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Furniture |
Coastal furniture tends to be elegant yet comfortable, focusing on clean lines and a more refined aesthetic. Think of slip-covered sofas. |
Furniture in a beachy style is often more casual and comfortable, prioritizing relaxation. You might see oversized sofas, playful patterns, and eclectic furniture pieces. |
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Decor |
The decor in coastal interiors includes subtle nods to the sea, such as nautical motifs, coastal artwork, and elegant accessories like glass lanterns. |
Beachy decor is more playful and whimsical, with bright artwork, beach-themed accessories (like surfboards and seashells), and a more informal arrangement of items. |
The coastal style leans towards a refined, serene aesthetic with subtle seaside elements. In contrast, the beachy style embraces a vibrant, casual, and playful vibe that evokes the fun and energy of a day at the beach.
How do you Create a Coastal Style in the Interior?
If you're ready to turn your living space into a coastal-style work of art, where every element works in unison like waves lapping the shore, we recommend starting with your color scheme. Choose soft blues, sand, and white tones. The walls can be painted in a light shade or finished with decorative plaster. Light-colored wood or laminate flooring is ideal for the floor.
Choose simple and functional furniture with elements of natural wood or rattan. Remember cozy textiles: plaids and pillows with marine prints and textures will create an atmosphere of home comfort. As mentioned, seashells, paintings with seascapes, and elements reminiscent of travels will make your interior unique.
Coastal Style Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and in coastal style, it should be both cozy and functional. Choose light-colored fronts for the cabinets and natural stone countertops. General interior colors can be varied from soft mint to gentle blue - anything that brings back memories of the sea.
Wood or ceramic tiles are better for the floor. Pendant lights with rattan or metal elements are suitable for lighting. Interior doors with neat panels or aluminum slats will look graceful in your house or flat.
Use bright pots for jars with sea salt and fresh herbs. Of course, remember the collection of seashells on the windowsill.
Coastal Style Living Room
A coastal-style living room is your space to relax and socialize. Start with soft, beige sofas and chairs upholstered in natural fabrics. Add pillows with nautical motifs and textures that invite you to enjoy the homey atmosphere.
Soft blue or white walls make the space appear visually wider. Instead of standard rugs, use braided or jute products.
Since this room does not require perfect privacy with maximum soundproofing, you can install sliding doors, including barn doors.
Remember the décor: paintings with seascapes, frames with travel photos, and elements reminiscent of sea adventures. Stylish lamps with transparent lampshades will add a touch of grace and make evening family gatherings more soulful.
Coastal Style Bathroom
The bathroom is a mini spa. Choose tiles in light colors that mimic sea sand. The walls can be painted blue or mint, and the sinks match natural stone worktops and wooden cabinets.
Coastal Style Bedroom
The same rules for the bedroom remain soft textiles, a snow-white palette, cozy plaids and pillows with nautical patterns, and soft and muted lighting. Remember indoor plants, which will add freshness to the room.
Coastal Style Office
To find a balance between aesthetics and functionality, designers advise making the centerpiece of the office a comfortable wooden desk with many shelves for storing papers and stationery and chairs with comfortable upholstery. The rest of the room can be decorated as the homeowner likes. However, the lighting should be sufficient but soft, so explore the range of table lamps.
Conclusion
Coastal style turns your time at home into a vacation. Its main features are:
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Beach relaxed setting.
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Sea-inspired décor: stripes and seashells.
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A soft color palette and plenty of natural light.