The Central Elements of Coastal Style

Bring the sea a little closer to home with this guide from bb Interiors

You don’t have to live near a beach to embrace coastal style. Infusing your home with elements that are airy, breezy, serene and soothing, bright, natural and almost effortless can help you achieve this aesthetic.

Think of the relaxing feeling that you get when you walk into a light, bright beach house. You can replicate it in your own home, even if you live far, far away from an ocean. And you don’t have to embrace the sea creatures, rope and nautical flags to do so. Incorporating some of the hallmark elements of the style — such as an abundance of light, natural materials, beautifully weathered wood, pretty pale colors and more — will allow you to achieve a peaceful, yet elegant coastal oasis in your very own home.

Ample Lighting

Coastal spaces are nothing if not light, bright and airy. Channel that experience with skylights, light-colored draperies and window treatments made from more natural, breathable fabrics such as muslin, cotton or linen, and lots of natural light. Window treatments allow you to control the light in the room, to a certain extent, but also can pull your design together. Sconces and other lighting fixtures can do the trick if your current space isn’t conducive to increasing the natural light in your home.

[Photos courtesy of Made Goods and Circa Lighting]

Natural Materials

Natural materials are an important feature of the coastal design aesthetic. Not only do they bring the outdoors in, and contribute to the soothing and relaxing tone of the space, but they can also add texture and interest. Natural fibers can be incorporated into rugs or floor coverings, statement chairs, table runners and even light fixtures. Beyond that, accents of wood, jute, coral and grass can add an extra dose of personality and life to any room.

[Photos courtesy of Made Goods and Ralph Lauren]

Coastal Colors

If you’re not quite sure of where to start when it comes to selecting colors for your coastal-inspired spaces, start with relatively neutral color palette — beige, khaki, warm shades of white and gray — before adding in more color.

Take inspiration from coastal scenery when determining which colors to incorporate into your interiors. Blues, greens and soft pastel shades can add the pop of color you desire while still fitting in with your theme. Blues are reminiscent of the water, greens of grasses, white of bright light and foamy sea, beige of sand and gray of storm clouds.

[Photos courtesy of Fabricut and Made Goods]

With summer right around the corner, nautical style is emerging for the season. So whether you have a second home, live on the water full-time or simply want to bring the charm of the coast into your home, we can help. Call bb Interiors to get started.