Welcome to the clean, crisp and calming style of coastal that evokes the same feeling as the gentle hum of the waves unfurling on the shore (now that’s peaceful). Coastal style feels sophisticated and relaxing and can be put into practice in any space, not just by the beach. 

Let us explore the elements of coastal style.

Tip#1: Son of a Beach Accessories: Shoreline treasures such as seashells, sand dollars, coral, starfish and any other maritime accessory belong in coastal style (but use sparingly, there is overkill). Other ideal accessories include objects made of rope and knots, twine, lanterns, and light vases reminiscent of sea glass. Try putting these objects in glass cloches or apothecary jars for a more organized but airy feel. If you don’t want to get your hands sandy, use framed artwork or prints of your favorite beachy wonders. 

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Tip#2: Gentle Sea Hues: Beach style requires a soft palette of light blues, greens and even yellows mixed with white, tans (cream, beige and khaki) and neutrals. White is imperative to coastal style giving it a refreshing, breezy feel followed by the next most important hue: light blue. Pale blue is ideal for kitchen or bathroom tile work and painted walls. Yes, we are going for colors of sand, sea and sky. If you want a bolder look, try punches or coral, lime, emerald green or navy. 

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Tip#3: White Woodwork: White trim and and a network of extensive crown molding is prevalent in coastal style. Without screaming colors or eccentric focal pieces, the background or periphery space is just as decorated. Maintaining visible sight lines allows a room to feel airy, even breezy. 

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Tip#4: Small Windows for Abundant Light: Light is fundamental to coastal style making spaces feel open and bright like standing on the beach. Windows, glass doors and skylights are plentiful, maximizing natural light. Beachy spaces should never feel dark and dim. In coastal architecture, tiny windows, both round and square, are reminiscent of ship portholes or lighthouses. If you want to pull in more light, try circular mirrors for solid porthole effect, AHOY!

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Tip#5: Clean Fabrics: Crisp, white and simple linens thrive in these airy spaces. Your furnishings should be light with slipcovers of linen. Try cotton rugs and muslin curtain panels, even sheer. Patterns should be simple and few, too many patterns and you hit an ocean of preppy or kitschy (both can be dangerous). However curtains and pillows with cute, beachy patterns in a light pastel hue are heavily encouraged. 

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Tip#6: Paneling: Hello wainscoting and beadboards! For those of you with curious minds who don’t know, “wainscoting” is the wood paneling effect on lower walls of a room. Use beadboards on ceilings, in wainscoting or full wall, either vertical or horizontal. Panels emphasize that feeling that maybe you are actually on a ship but didn’t realize because you’re in the matrix. 

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Tip#7: Distressed Wood: More ship resemblances, wood should be distressed or with patina giving it that “I was lost under sea for years” feel. Use light, natural, unstained woods or woods with chipping paint like blond maple and ash, or bamboo. You can also use whitewashed or pickled woods. This is the portion of coastal style that feels almost rustic. Use driftwood accessories but sparingly, do not overdo it on the driftwood or it can feel cliche. 

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Tip#8: Wicker Furnishings and Accessories: Rougher fabrics or furnishings like wicker, sea grass, rattan and jute preserve that nautical, outdoor feel. Use woven baskets and bins for organization or incorporate rope, burlap and twine. 

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Exterior style: Yes, these are all beach houses but they are awesome. 

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I hope you enjoyed these bright and breezy picks, I couldn’t narrow it down. We have conquered Traditional, Hollywood Glam, Eclectic, Contemporary, Industrial, Rustic, and Modern in the Establish Your Style Series. Next up: Mediterranean. 

Until the next adventure,

Jenn