Transforming your home into a haven is all about creating a space where you feel comfortable and at peace. Coastal homes exude an intrinsic charm, radiating a carefree, calm vibe. Whether you’re revamping your upstate beach house or bringing the coast’s soothing elements to your New York City loft, our guide to coastal décor and furnishings is everything you need to transform your space.
Difference Between Coastal Décor and Beach Décor
Beach and coastal décor are often used synonymously, but there are a few key differences. Picture the contrast between a tropical Aruban beach and the rocky seaside of Cape Cod. Both beach and coastal interior design draw inspiration from natural coastline elements but create a distinct aesthetic.
Coastal décor mirrors classic marine elements and the ruggedness of the shore. Think of a tailored, refined feel with darker colors and vintage elements. On the other hand, beach décor translates the feeling of seaside relaxation with flowy linens and lighter tones and textures.
Must-Have Coastal Décor for Your Home
Coastal decorating draws from the natural elements of the beach, like sun, wind, sand, sea, and sky. A tastefully designed coastal home encompasses a collection of rustic furniture and décor to create a tranquil atmosphere. Unlike beach décor, coastal décor leans more on the nautical side, emphasizing deeper neutral-toned colors, natural materials, and soft-touch experiences. You want to paint a picture of scenic landscapes, crashing waves, and sunshine through your décor.
That said, everything from wall art to decorative vases can help you turn your vision into a reality. Here are some of our top, must-have coastal and beach décor pieces from Ashley:
- Chevron Pouf
- Precia Rug
- Dallson Floor Lamp
- Monterey Wall Art Set
- Colburn Wall Sconce
- Jamon Table Lamp
- Dorcey Planter Set
- Jocelyne Tray Set
- Irvetta Pillow
- Coenbell Pendant Light
- Leonita Throw
- Belenburg Floor Mirror
- Hannela Small Vase
- Elian Basket Set
Best Colors for Coastal Decorating
Coastal decorating takes a simple, minimalistic approach. A coastal-style color scheme captures the serene beauty of seaside landscapes with different neutral shades. White or beige walls create a light, open ambiance. Deep greens and royal blues reflect the soothing tones of the sea and sky. Earth tones and natural materials like dark oaks, pines, and wicker create a feel reminiscent of the sand and shoreline. Grays and creams transcend you to a rocky beach. If you’re leaning more on the beach décor side, subtle pops of color like coral, seafoam, and turquoise can exude a graceful, tropical feel.
You can incorporate these coastal home décor colors in many ways and add your personal touch to make your space unique. It’s all about telling a cohesive story with interior design. For example, if you choose a white couch, add contrast with gray or royal blue throw pillows. Or display neutral-toned ceramic vases, vintage-style mirrors, and nautical motives throughout your home to compliment your furnishings.
Furnishing Your Living Room at Your Beach House
When furnishing your beach house living room, always keep things light and bright. Maximize the natural light in your living room with strategically placed wooden or vintage accent mirrors. A visually appealing coastal living room has a mix of dark and light tones and textures that blend harmoniously. Couches, sofas, and accent chairs should evoke the comfortable, calming feel of the seaside. Stick with whites and neutral tones for coastal living furniture, and add subtle pops of color as you see fit.
A natural wood or white coffee table will further complement your other furniture. If you prefer dark tones, create a balance of light features with your décor. Tasteful wall art, large plants, candle holders, and coastal motifs can all add to your seaside oasis. Use natural textures like wood and wicker to imitate the shoreline feel.
Coastal Living Decorating Ideas
Every space in your home can emanate an enchanting coastal vibe. Now that we’ve covered living room coastal furniture and décor, let us paint a picture to spark creativity with these coastal décor ideas.
Foyer
After a day at the beach, entering a coastal home should enhance that tranquil feeling. A deep oak entryway table adorned with plants, a lamp, and other seaside elements is the perfect start. Add a decorative mirror to open your space and a neutral-toned entryway rug to tie it all together.
Kitchen
Light, airy, and inviting should describe your coastal home kitchen. Keeping with the coastal home color scheme and elements, line your kitchen island with simple, chic wooden chairs or barstools and hang rattan pendant lights above. Add a natural decorative tray to hold your olive oil cruet and salt and pepper mills. Complete your island with a decorative vase filled with beautiful flowers.
Dining Room
Create an open feeling in your dining room with a standout table set in deep oak or pine. You can also create contrast with a lighter wood table and coastal-style white chairs. Get creative with centerpieces! Some of our faves are plants, glass vases filled with seashells, or vintage candle holders. Amp up your space with framed beachside wall art and decorative mirrors.
Bedrooms
Your bedrooms are the ideal space for coastal-inspired wall art, a cozy white duvet, and stylish throw pillows in deep blues or greens. White ceramic lamps are the perfect addition to your nightstands. A wooden accent chair near your window can add a cozy space for reflection. Adorn your bedroom with other earthy elements like hanging plants.
Bathrooms
Transform your bathrooms by integrating weathered wood and driftwood for a rustic coastal feel. Use light airy materials for your shower curtains. Blend nautical motifs like coral, forage, and seashells with woven baskets, rope accents, and framed coastal-themed artwork to create a visually appealing space.
Design Your Coastal Oasis With Ashley
Embrace the beauty and tranquility of coastal living by designing a home inspired by the timeless allure of the sea. We believe the best home décor lets your personality shine through. Ashley is the top spot to embark on this delightful journey, with hundreds of furniture and décor options to create your seaside haven.
