Coastal Home Decor in 5 Easy Steps |Keeping it Real

Hello, and welcome. If you've been visiting a while, you already know I love the summer, the ocean and all things beachy. Which means that I also love coastal decor - not only do the colors appeal to me, but I always feel that it transmits a message of calm and serenity. It’s more than just a theme - it’s an atmosphere.

So, as we start the year, here are five easy steps to bring that breath of fresh, sea air into your space.

1. Color & Light

Coastal style is built on maximizing light and creating an airy feel, so whites, off-whites and sandy tones are essential - use them on walls, trim, and large pieces of upholstery. Then introduce color through the blues and greens of the sea and sky - think seafoam green, soft aqua, sky blue, and deeper indigo or navy for accents like throw pillows, rugs, or a single statement chair.

And, most importantly, let the sun shine by keeping window treatments light and sheer or using natural woven shades that allow maximum daylight penetration.

2. Natural Textures

Rattan, jute, and wicker: these woven fibers are the signature of relaxed coastal design. Use a large jute or sisal rug, wicker storage baskets, or a beautiful rattan pendant light fixture. Look for light-toned, distressed, or painted white woods for coffee tables, consoles, and bedroom furniture. Whitewashed wood furniture looks like it has been weathered by the sun and the ocean, and has the perfect coastal vibe.

Choose airy fabrics like linen and cotton for everything from bedding to sofa slipcovers. Their slightly rumpled, natural appearance adds to the casual, comfortable vibe.

3. Focus on Found Objects and Simple Accents

To keep the look sophisticated, curate a small collection of high-quality, nature-inspired pieces. Incorporate bits of driftwood, seashells, or a sculptural piece of white coral on a bookshelf or mantel.

Use clear or subtly colored sea glass vases and handcrafted ceramic pieces in blues, soft greens and whites to add reflective surfaces. Hang framed prints of abstract ocean scenes, close-up photographs of sand dunes, or simple, classic nautical charts.

4. Comfort First

Remember that you are decorating a home, not designing a magazine cover, so prioritize your family's comfort and the comfort of anyone else you invite to visit.

Choose overstuffed sofas and chairs, but with slipcovers in durable, washable fabrics like cotton and linen (mostly, you are working with light colors and they will need cleaning sooner rather than later). Don't be afraid to mix different furniture styles and materials. A linen sofa paired with a rattan armchair feels authentic and lived-in.

5. Add a Touch of Greenery

A pop of vibrant, living green instantly brings coastal design to life, so include small potted palms, snake plants, or ferns. The rich green color contrasts beautifully with the blue-and-white color palette and adds a fresh, organic element.

By focusing on light, natural textures, and a curated selection of accents, you can create a coastal-inspired home that feels endlessly relaxing and elegantly timeless.

Want to see the full coastal decor inspiration short video these photos were extracted from? Check it out below on my YouTube channel: