Summer. A time filled with warmth, weekends on the shore, and ample natural elements surrounding us from sea oats to sand, sun, ocean blue hues, and more. What better way to bring the positive summertime energy in than by incorporating that feel into the interior of your home.
Photo credit: Designed by Julie Howard Home Design for Timber Trails Development Company
Laid-Back Coastal Aesthetic
Modern coastal chic style is a popular interior design trend — it blends casual beach house looks and traditional Hamptons designs into bright, minimal, and contemporary moments. The style emphasizes relaxed beachy elements, transforming the space for the new season, but with a style that will remain timeless and applicable year-round.
Based on natural components, coastal décor is truly timeless and offers flexibility as it readily adapts to new design trends and styles. Through the use of softer neutral tones, versus vivid, bold colors, or lighter-toned woods versus dark dramatic stains, the overall style can be easily added to.
Coastal Design, Defined
Coastal designs place a strong emphasis on light and breezy looks inspired by the water and beach. By sticking to a color palette that is reminiscent of the ocean, sand, and sky — pure whites and neutral tones — everything transitions seamlessly from one season to the next, blending together for a calming atmosphere.
Photo credit: Pure Salt Interiors
Shop similar coastal pendant lights: Crate & Barrel; Crate & Barrel; Serena & Lily; Joss & Main
Natural materials such as wood, wicker, and jute are often found in coastal-chic interiors, paired alongside pops of color ranging from fresh blue hues to crisp greens, for added contrast. Variations of coastal design also incorporate woven accents such as baskets, natural fiber rugs, and slipcovers made of materials like linen that add a touch of sophistication.
Photo credit: Pure Salt Interiors
Shop similar natural bedding: Pottery Barn; Pottery Barn; West Elm
Overall, interiors with coastal themes highlight sleek lines and understated elegance, with a focus on comfort and relaxation.
Applying The Style To Your Home
Start with a background of white walls, gentle natural colors of the sand and sky, and crisp, casual materials like cotton and linen. Next, incorporate organic elements like baskets, light driftwood textures, and soft textiles for rugs as well as throw cushions and blankets.
And since the general feel of a modern beach house is one of ultimate relaxation, it's easy to overdo the coastal styling. A few quick tips to avoid going overboard: limit signage, rope accents, anchors, nautical pieces, ocean waves, and lobster, crab, sea urchin, or starfish motifs while decorating a contemporary coastal home.
Looking for polished inspiration? Take a look at Serena and Lily, Pure Salt and Pottery Barn for real-life application; each brand brilliantly captures what modern coastal design looks like in 2023.
Visualizing Calm Coastal Spaces Throughout The Home
Foyer:
Photo credit: Designed by Julie Howard Home Design
Living and family room:
Photo credit: Designed by Julie Howard Home Design
Dining room:
Photo credit: Life on Virginia Street
Kitchen:
Photo credit: Designed by Julie Howard Home Design for Timber Trails Development Company
Bedroom:
Photo credit: The House of Hood
For interior design inspiration or guidance with buying or selling in any market, connect with me via email [email protected] or on social media. I look forward to being of assistance!
Photos credited to their appropriate sources throughout. Banner photo atop page: Timber Trails Development Company.
