If life by the ocean sounds like a slice of heaven to you, you can create that memorable, carefree feeling in your home even if you live in the heart of the city. Coastal style is quickly transforming interiors everywhere into mini-vacations you can take in your own home whatever day of the week.
Of course, it will take more than designer shell-shaped soaps in the bathroom to create the relaxed, casual interiors of coastal style.
You can start with your wall color and overall color palette to use for choosing furniture and accessories. Colors that remind you of the ocean include blue and coral pinks naturally but sand is a neutral color you won’t fear will clash with other colors you introduce.
This color palette can be used in the fabrics on your couch, curtains, and rugs as well. For couches, you can add seashell and seahorse prints to further evoke the spirit of the sea. Hand-painted starfish on your curtains also work well and stencils are available if you aren’t too artistically inclined. However, we also suggest using light fabrics on the windows especially during summer to let a stray breeze come in and freshen up the room as well.
Coastal style furniture are available that specifically fit your theme. Hickory Furniture Mart is home to manufacturers who specialize in seaside living, featuring classic looks that include painted furniture, beach furniture, and accessories.
On the other hand, going overboard with the ocean motif in the accessories department can make your home look campy. Using too many beach accessories (like shells, sand, etc.) will be the equivalent of tacky souvenirs from your vacation.
You can find other inspirations from the ocean like turtles, waves, and schools of fish to avoid kitsch. What other inspirations can you bring home from the beach?