Your beach house should be a place to unwind, relax, and recharge. How can you incorporate coastal interior design to achieve this tranquil atmosphere? The key lies in designing a space that mirrors the calming, natural beauty of your surroundings.
Here are some expert tips from our Charleston interior designers to style your beach house and create your personal oasis.
1. Embrace the Coastal Color Palette:
- Ocean Hues: Blues, greens, and teals are perfect for mimicking the calming colors of the sea and sky. Consider sky-blue patterned wallpaper for a statement wall, cerulean throw pillows for a splash of color, or a navy oversized armchair for a touch of sophisticated comfort.
- Sandy Neutrals: Creams, beiges, and taupes evoke the serenity of sand and create a light and airy feel. These colors also serve as excellent backdrops for bolder accents.
- Sun-Kissed Accents: Warm yellows, oranges, and pinks evoke the feeling of a stunning beach sunset. Use these sparingly in artwork, flowers, or decorative accents like coffee table books or vases.
2. Incorporate Natural Textures:
- Woven Wonders: Natural materials such as rattan, wicker, and seagrass add textural interest and a relaxed vibe. Consider ottomans, baskets, light fixtures, or a chic headboard made from these materials to instantly create a beachy atmosphere.
- Linen Love: Linen is a staple of coastal interior design. Its light and breathable nature makes it ideal for hot summer days. Opt for plain or patterned linen curtains, slipcovers for easy maintenance, or cozy throws for added comfort.
- Worn Wood: Weathered driftwood accents, reclaimed wood furniture, or a rustic dining table with a distressed finish add coastal charm and connect your space to the natural world.
3. Beach House-Approved Interior Design Selections:
- Comfy, Performance Seating: Invest in plush sofas and armchairs upholstered in durable, easy-care fabrics like performance velvet or outdoor-grade materials that can handle sandy adventures. Interior designers also suggest slipcovers for easy cleaning.
- Carpetless Considerations: Coastal interiors should account for sand and water, so skip the carpet. Opt for hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring that’s easy to clean.
- Low Profiles: Keep furniture low to the ground to maintain a sense of openness and allow the focus to remain on the stunning ocean view.
4. Keep It Light and Bright:
- Maximize Natural Light: Avoid heavy drapes and choose light-filtering options to increase natural light and create an open feel.
- Mirrored Magic: Strategically place mirrors to reflect light and make your space feel larger and brighter.
- Warm Glow: Layer lighting with table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights to create a warm, inviting ambiance in the evenings, avoiding harsh overhead lights.
5. Add Decorative Pieces with Seaside Flair:
- Nautical Notes: Incorporate vintage ship wheels, rope accents, or colorful buoys to add nautical charm without a kitschy feel.
- Vacation-Themed Books: Include photo books from past family vacations or island-themed coffee table books to evoke the sense of a relaxing getaway.
- Beachy Botanicals: Bring the outdoors in with lush greenery. Opt for salt-tolerant plants like succulents or air plants that thrive in coastal climates.
6. Beach House Finishing Touches:
- Beach-Themed Throws and Pillows: Layer cozy throws and pillows in soft textures and coastal colors to add comfort and personality.
- Scented Candles: Fill your space with calming scents like sea salt, lavender, or citrus to evoke the feeling of being by the ocean.
- Outdoor Oasis: Extend your beachy vibes to the patio or balcony with comfortable, weather-resistant furniture and a speaker system for your favorite tunes.
Remember, your beach house should be a space where you can unwind while reflecting your personal style. For help with this design process, contact us for all your coastal interior design needs. Our Charleston interior designers are here to help you create a space where you can relax and soak up the serenity of the coast.
