How to Decorate Coastal Style

What is Coastal Decor?

Whether you live by the sea or miles from the nearest body of water, it’s easy to infuse coastal-style decor into your home. Coastal decor is all about capturing the serenity of the shore and the simplicity of the laid-back beach lifestyle. Originating on the Atlantic coast, coastal decor is characterized by its relaxed and carefree aesthetic. This style is inspired by beautiful coastal shorelines and will evoke an airy, lighthearted vibe. So, kick back and relax because we have everything you need to experience the casual, comfortable style of coastal living.

What are the Styles of Coastal Interior Design?

When it comes to the color palette, the coastal design style tends to be bright, airy, and inspired by the ocean. You’ll generally find a mixture of white, blues, and greens. Sometimes, pinks, reds, and yellows that have been inspired by beach glass are intermixed. The coastal theme can work well in any room of the home. So, whether you’re looking to decorate a beach-themed bedroom or switching to beach bathroom decor, you’ll be able to create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Mediterranean Coastal Design Style

For a Mediterranean coastal design, consider the type of places surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. This includes Italy, Spain, and Greece – all locations with beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant skies. To decorate, try using stone and wooden materials that bring the tranquility of nature indoors. Woven wicker or rattan chairs can deliver a Mediterranean vibe. This furniture can be further enhanced with throw pillows in a deep coastal blue or tan color. You can infuse neutral colors into the space to make it feel more spacious and warm.

Tropical/Beach Coast Design Style

This design style will likely remind you of palm trees and other greenery. The inspiration for this style comes from tropical locations such as Hawaii, Bali, and the Caribbean. Explore decorative accents and furniture in light tones, such as pure white or ivory. However, you can also incorporate other colors including coral pinks, ocean blues, and earthy browns. You’ll bring the tropics indoors with couch pillows and throws with a leafy pattern. Or, add seagrass rugs and jute rugs for a touch of natural elements.

American Coastal Design Style

Whether you want to decorate in the American contemporary coastal style or American cottage coastal design style, both are great options. The American contemporary coastal design style mimics a beach aesthetic. If your home has an open layout with plenty of windows and doors for letting in fresh air, consider this decorating style. You can incorporate shells, various textures, and pastel colors to bring everything together.

American cottage coastal style, on the other hand, gives you a quaint and cozy feel. You’ll still enjoy a laid back space, but in a refined manner. You can include a variety of furnishings and display various collections that give the room some character. It’s all about creating a hospitable aesthetic with more modern elements. Consider adding things like a coffee table, vases, photographs, and whatever else intrigues you.

Minimalist/Modern Coastal Design Style

A minimalist design favors a crisp, white interior. But that doesn’t mean you can’t accent with a pop of color. Small hints of light blues, grays, and beige colors are sure to create a room that’s comfortable and inviting. It’s also a great idea to make the space feel more airy with the help of sheer drapes. Sheer drapes are an essential finishing touch that can make a room feel fully decorated and inviting.

Where to Decorate with Coastal Accents

Coastal window treatments, decorative accents, and furniture will help your home embrace beachy style, no matter where you live. Here are a few places to try decorating your home with coastal accents:

• Entryway: The entryway is a great place to infuse coastal design elements because it’s the area that your family and friends will see first. Here, you can add coastal wall decor featuring tropical beach scenes, palm trees, and more. You can also add a mirror or two. Mirrors are a great way to reflect light back into your home. They can be a fabulous addition to the space when you pair them with other decorative elements.
• Kitchen & Dining Room: Since these areas are where people frequently gather, it’s the ideal place to play with coastal kitchen and dining decor. Covering your kitchen table with a seashell-patterned tablecloth or serving summery cocktails in glasses with fish decals is a festive way to bring some coastal decorating ideas into the heart of your home. For even more style, consider adding tropical placements to your dining table.
• Living Room: Next to the kitchen, the living is the hub of the home. A few of the easiest ways to incorporate coastal accents into this space are with coastal furniture and natural lighting. Update your living space with seashell counter stools or wicker furniture that brings beach house accents to your humble abode. For your window treatment, consider sheer drapes to diffuse light while still retaining outward visibility.
• Bathroom: If you want to create a rejuvenating, spa-inspired space, this is the place to do it. You can light coastal-inspired candles and use wax melts to create a scent that instantly transports you to an exotic retreat. Coastal wall art can also be added here or in other rooms. Artwork adds depth and character to a space. Not only are our pieces vibrant but they can evoke the emotion of seaside living.
• Bedroom: Whether or not your bedroom window looks out onto the ocean, you can turn your bed into a cozy coastal retreat. Find coastal sheets with fun patterns like pineapples, anchor prints, pink flamingos, seahorses, and more. If you’re looking for something more subtle, explore bedding with coastal stripes and calm blue, green, and beige neutral tones.

Coastal home decor isn’t the only theme available at Kohl’s. Whether you want to create a rustic retreat, an outdoor oasis, or a modern farmhouse style, you’ll find all the home decor needed to create a space you’ll love. Shop Kohl’s today!