A Guide to Captivating Coastal Interior Design

Modern coastal design has outgrown the idea of seashells and weathered driftwood in its use of natural colors, textures, and finishes. Now, you can immerse yourself in beachy relaxation with sleek lines, elements of minimalism, and a color palette inspired by crashing waves and oceanside sunrises. Organic materials and eco-conscious design choices bring the coast to you—no matter how far away you may be.

Whether you live in a sun-soaked, sandy oasis or want to infuse your urban setting with coastal ambiance, get inspired by some of our favorite coastal design ideas.

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White and Wood Coastal Bathroom

Crisp whites and natural materials are a staple to coastal design—this bathroom features lots of minimalist shapes finished with an understated stain that gives the appearance of salt-washed oceanside living. The wood beams on the ceiling and natural light from the large window bring a soft, cozy glow to the room, evoking a relaxing morning on the seashore.

Light Wood Coastal Design Bathroom

White walls are prominently featured in most coastal interior designs, but they aren’t a necessity. This bathroom utilizes natural wood paneling on its walls, bringing coastal elements in the form of plant life, clay and woven textures, and nautically-inspired linens.

Let the Light In with Large Windows

Natural light from large windows illuminate this white coastal bedroom. Accented by blue and green hues, natural fibers and indoor foliage, its bright aesthetic and black windows create a clean focus on the views outside.

Texture, Texture, Texture

The textured fabric of this sofa, paired with a jute rug and loosely woven throw pillows, creates a sensory coastal experience. Beachy accents are minimal but make a bold statement, avoiding a cluttered appearance and welcoming you to relax in a naturally enticing space.

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Lived-In Linen

Airy and organic, linen is a great touch for any coastal interior design bedroom. Paired with bamboo blinds, subtly striped fabrics, and bronze light fixtures, this cream-colored linen duvet provides just the right amount of warmth on beachside nights.

Bold Navy and White Coastal Design

In contrast with its mostly-white surroundings, this white chair with navy piping evokes a classically nautical feel. Accented by wicker, natural-colored weaves, and live plants, it’s a nod to bolder nautical décor (but without going too far).

Coastal Interior Design: Slip Covers

Originating from the need to keep beach-house furniture clean in briny conditions, slip covers have become a staple of modern coastal décor. Easy-to-remove and throw in the wash, they can hold up to significant wear, protecting your carefully curated seating from the elements. Plus, they have a relaxed and easygoing appeal that lends itself well to the coastal aesthetic.

Coastal Interior Design: Stripes

Stripes in white and blue suggest a sense of the nautical, especially when paired with white and light-washed wood. Subtle, mono-toned sea life depictions transcend the dated seashells everywhere look for an elevated take on paying homage to oceanic proximity.

Coastal Reading Nook

Enjoy your latest beach read in the comfortable glow of a reading room featuring coastal interior design. Natural light illuminates a soft, under stuffed sofa for optimal lounging whether you’re reading, resting, or enjoying a morning espresso.

Coastal Design Goes Full Circle

Prominently feature circles in your coastal design if you want to create a Zen interior with a sense of harmony and balance. Circular mirrors or wall-mounted baskets can be soothing visually and mentally, and lighted orbs on bedside tables provide a diffused glow when it’s time to wind down.

Coastal Design With Coastal Views

If you’ve got it, flaunt it. Beachfront homes have a stunning advantage when it comes to the view. Utilize large windows to create a seamless blend between your home’s interior design and the coast itself. Let the art and color palette complement ocean views with inspiration taken straight from the beach.

Multi-Purpose Coastal Design

Nothing is wasted in the coastal design aesthetic. Vintage or repurposed items like an elegant wood ironing board can be transformed into unique accents that complement other organic shapes and materials.

Coastal Interior Design: Aquatic Life

While it may have fallen out of fashion to feature actual fish or sea life as a highlight of coastal design style, a subtle reference here or there can help to round out a coastal design scheme. Be sure to choose pieces that take artistic liberties when depicting sea life to avoid your design becoming cliché.

The Blues: Coastal Design Staples

Layering shades of blue atop clean, crisp whites and various textures creates a sense of depth and movement. Sink into an ocean of relaxation and surround yourself with cool, hypnotic serenity.

Coastal Vintage Bathroom

Enjoy ocean views or artistic representations from a classic tub. Placing it near a window—especially on the actual coast—gives bathers a sense of oneness with the sea in a tranquil, naturally lit bathroom.

Coastal Interior Design Kitchen

This kitchen combines many coastal elements to create a truly classic coastal interior design kitchen. From live plants and natural wood, to textured fabrics and shades of blue.

Coastal Elements: Wainscoting

Wainscoting is not only an element of coastal interior design, it was created to provide insulation for homes in damp, cold areas. Coastal homes were no exception thanks to their proximity to the water, and the functional wood-paneling has now become a staple of coastal design.

Coastal Interior Design Living Room

Classic white pairs with light-wood finishes and organic shapes in this open-concept coastal home. Furniture is structured and clean, but the open layout elevates the feeling of relaxation most coastal homes aim to create.

Rustic Coastal Interior Design

Exposed beams add a sense of rustic charm and authenticity to complement the natural-yet-tailored feel of coastal design. Their natural texture and often weathered appearance evoke the idea of a beachside cottage and transport homeowners to a simpler time.

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Coastal Interior Design Bedroom

Modern coastal design incorporates elements of classic and traditional styles — like ornate floral prints and clean lines — alongside more relaxed elements in the form of textures and colors. The sense of sophistication is what separates true coastal design from a more “beach” feel.

Airy Transitional Spaces

Hallways, foyers, and other open spaces in a coastal home can be repurposed into breezy, relaxing galleries or meditation coves. Bring in items from nature like carefully curated branches, driftwood, or sea glass to accentuate the natural light and organic colors.

Beach House Coastal Interior Design

For homes with covered or partially finished outdoor spaces, don’t be afraid to adorn them in a similar fashion to your indoor areas. Rattan, shades of blue, stripes, and nautical-nodding outdoor lighting complete this home’s coastal aesthetic, even outdoors.