Modern coastal decor is a style of interior design that draws from the colors, textures, and patterns found in nature and the sea. This style aims to capture the relaxed, carefree energy of the beach and to infuse the home with the welcoming ambiance of coastal living.
In modern coastal homes, you’ll find natural finishes and materials, such as whitewashed wood, jute, rattan, sisal, and abaca, combined with blues and greens in various elements—from furniture and fabrics to soft furnishings and accessories.
Neutral colors like white, gray, and beige are also popular, and they often act as a backdrop to bright and airy splashes of blue. Modern coastal rooms also feature plenty of natural lighting, as well as various patterns in the artwork, rugs, and textiles.
This interior design style aims to create a home environment that is inviting to friends and family and is a great choice for coastal living.
What is the difference between coastal and nautical decor?
Coastal and nautical decor are similar in that they both reference the ocean and evoke a seaside feeling, but they differ in many ways. Coastal decor focuses on elements of nature, such as seashells, starfish, and sand, while nautical decor tends to be more nostalgia-oriented with references to sailing and boats.
Coastal decor is typically characterized by airy, informal pieces that embrace the sunny, beach-inspired look, such as white-washed furniture, chunky throws, and striped textiles. Nautical decor, however, tends to look more sophisticated and classic, and often features rope, boat parts, and navy-and-white stripes.
Both styles can be used to create an inviting, welcoming atmosphere but the end result will be quite different depending on the particular elements you choose.
What is contemporary coastal style?
Contemporary coastal style is a type of home decor style that is inspired by the colors, patterns, and materials of the ocean. This decor style typically incorporates light and airy colors such as blues, greens, and whites, with accents of coral, sandy hues and aquatic elements.
The focus is on organic elements like wood and natural fibers, as well as material items with a nautical theme—think rope, shells, and starfish. Furniture should be comfortable and airy, with a focus on natural fabrics and materials.
Contemporary coastal style should feel restful, yet stylish and inviting. Aspects of this style could include lots of natural elements such as white washed woods, fluffy linen upholstery, whitewashed painted furniture, woven rugs, and rattan, as well as vintage nautical pieces like netting, maps, and lighthouses.
Can you mix mid century with other styles?
Yes, you absolutely can mix mid century with other styles. Mid century style is an incredibly versatile look that can blend with several other aesthetics. It can be used to soften modern designs while keeping them on trend with timeless elements, or to create unique contrast between minimalist decors and a more eclectic look.
To achieve the perfect mid century modern design, there are a few key factors to consider. First, choosing quality upholstery and furniture pieces with traditional silhouettes and clean lines. Then, incorporating modern colors and accents to the furniture pieces, such as geometric prints and metal accents.
Finally, accessorizing your mid century look with accent lighting and details like modern rugs or wall hangings that fit your decorative style. With thoughtful selection and careful planning, it’s easy to mix mid century with other styles and create a beautiful, timeless look in any space.
Can I mix modern and traditional furniture?
Yes, there are many ways to mix modern and traditional furniture. One idea is to choose furniture pieces that share a design element, such as using matching wood finishes or a repeating shape. If you are trying to combine pieces of different styles in the same room, consider creating a focal point with a traditional piece and accenting it with modern pieces.
This can be done with a rug, artwork or other decorative items. You can also create balance by alternating between traditional and modern elements. This might include a modern sofa paired with two traditional chairs, or a vintage dresser with a modern lighting fixture.
Additionally, selecting fabrics and colors that work together can help to tie the entire look together. Ultimately, mixing modern and traditional furniture can be done tastefully to create a unique and livable space.
Is Craftsman mid century?
No, Craftsman is not typically associated with mid-century style, though you could use Craftsman style furniture in a mid-century modern design. The Craftsman style originated during the early 20th century and began to increase in popularity in the 1910s and 1920s.
It is mainly characterized by general simplicity, handcrafted details, and natural material use, such as oak or hickory. Craftsman furniture is often expensive and highly prized for its quality and construction.
Mid-century modern design, on the other hand, began in the 1940s and 50s and is characterized by a focus on functionality, minimalism, and sleek lines which contrast from the warm and inviting elements of Craftsman style.
Mid-century modern furniture often uses materials like plywood, plastic, vinyl, and aluminum, which are all a stark contrast from the natural materials used in Craftsman style designs.
How do I decorate my house coastal?
Decorating your house with a coastal style can create a beautiful and calming environment. Coastal decor typically incorporates timeless and natural elements, such as whitewashed, distressed furniture, and airy, bright colors.
To give your home a coastal feel, start by choosing the right paint colors. Neutral tones like shades of white, light blue, and grey work perfectly to create a beachy atmosphere. Choose furniture and accents that have a weathered look and feel, like a distressed wood TV stand, a rattan headboard, or a woven rug.
Finish off the look with airy, lightweight window treatments like bamboo blinds and billowing sheers. Incorporate seashells, natural wood accents, and nautical-themed decorations, like boats and lighthouses, to add pops of color.
Finish off the look with nautical accessories like a boat oar above the fireplace, a sailboat painting on the wall, and lighthouse-shaped planters. An easy way to turn a space into an inviting coastal retreat is to add beachy pieces like a large hammock or a beach-themed window treatment.
By adding these elements and touches throughout your home, your house can easily reflect coastal elegance.
How do you get coastal style?
Coastal style can be achieved by using a variety of materials, colors, and textures that bring the natural beauty of the coast in your home. Start by adding cool tones like blues and whites to reflect the calming ocean and sky.
Introduce wicker and wood accents to give the beachy vibe. Add furniture with clean lines, such as sofas and chairs with curved lines and bright whites, creams, and natural hues to capture the reflective quality of the ocean.
Introduce pillows and throws to layer the room with texture and color. Hang mirrors and art with a coastal feel behind furniture and bring plants indoors to give life to your space. In the kitchen, use cabinets painted in refreshing blues and whites to create the atmosphere of serenity that the coast brings.
Finally, to complete the look, bring in ocean-inspired pieces such as coral, driftwood, and starfish to add to your coastal style.
How do I make my house look beachy?
Making your house look beachy is a great way to give your home a fresh, relaxing feel. To achieve this look, start by focusing on the walls. Try using light and airy colors, such as blue, aqua, and pastel shades, to create a beach-inspired atmosphere.
If you don’t want to paint the entire wall, consider adding a mural or wallpaper decal. You’ll also want to use plenty of whites, tans and light blues which will help create an open and airy feel.
When it comes to furniture and accessories, look for pieces that have a light and casual beach feel. Wicker chairs and surfboard-inspired art and accents will help you achieve this casual look. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try adding beach-themed throw pillows, blankets and rugs.
You can also hang a hammock or two to give your space a relaxing touch.
To brighten up your living space, bring in lots of natural light. Hang light-colored curtains or switch to sheer ones to add softness while still letting the sun in. Mirrors can also be effective in helping the light bounce throughout the room and making your space look larger.
A final way to make your home feel beachy is to add plants, since they bring in a natural, carefree vibe.
Making your house look beachy is a great way to give your home a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. With some simple changes to the walls, furniture, and accessories, as well as a few carefully chosen plants, you can give your house a beach-inspired look that is both inviting and stylish.