Embracing the Essence of the Coast, Wherever You Call Home
As a custom home builder and designer, I’ve had the pleasure of creating countless seaside sanctuaries for my clients over the years. There’s just something about the coastal aesthetic that captivates me – the light, airy, and casual-yet-tailored vibe that exudes warmth and welcomes you in. But the truth is, you don’t have to live on the coast to enjoy the soothing serenity of coastal-inspired design.
According to the NOAA, in 2010 only 39% of the US population lived in counties directly on the shoreline. That means the vast majority of us – 61% – don’t have the privilege of waking up to the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salt in the air. But that doesn’t mean we can’t capture that same idyllic essence in our homes, no matter where we reside.
Painting with the Palettes of the Coast
When I think of coastal design, the first thing that comes to mind is the color white. It’s the hue of airy breezes, fluffy summer clouds, and the frothy ocean foam that kisses the shore. As Marnie Oursler notes, white is the perfect backdrop for peace and tranquility – the very feelings we associate with life by the sea.
But coastal design is about so much more than just white. It’s about embracing the colors of the sky and the sea – mostly blues, but also the softer, more pastel tones of a sunrise over the water. As Oursler suggests, you can take inspiration from the natural palette of your own local landscape. If you live surrounded by forest, infuse your space with deep greens and earthy browns. In the desert, bring in clay reds, burnt oranges, and dusty pinks. Mother Nature always knows best when it comes to creating beautiful color combinations.
Textures that Bring the Coast Indoors
Of course, coastal design isn’t just about the colors – it’s also about the textures. At the beach, natural materials like driftwood, rope, seagrass, linen, and rattan reign supreme. These organic elements help to create that laid-back, casual-yet-tailored aesthetic that’s so synonymous with seaside living.
As Oursler points out, texture plays an especially important role in lighter, all-white palettes, helping to add depth and visual interest. But you can incorporate those natural coastal textures into your home no matter what your color scheme. Think weathered wood, jute, and wicker – or draw inspiration from the landscape around you.
Casual Elegance and Effortless Style
One of the things I love most about coastal design is the way it seamlessly blends casual and elegant elements. Life at the beach is inherently laid-back and relaxed, but that doesn’t mean it has to be sloppy or unkempt. In fact, coastal homes often have a tailored, put-together feel that’s still incredibly inviting and welcoming.
Oursler highlights the use of slipcovered furniture as a perfect example of this coastal aesthetic. The casual, unfussy nature of slipcovers creates a relaxed vibe, while the structured silhouettes and tailored details maintain a sense of polish. It’s the best of both worlds – a space that feels comfortable and lived-in, yet still sophisticated and stylish.
And that effortless elegance extends beyond just the furniture. Coastal design is all about uncomplicated, streamlined pieces that let the natural beauty of the materials shine. Clean lines, simple shapes, and unfussy textiles are the name of the game, allowing the space to feel airy, open, and uncluttered.
Bringing the Outdoors In
Of course, no discussion of coastal design would be complete without mentioning the deep connection to the great outdoors. After all, that’s really what the entire aesthetic is all about – capturing the soothing serenity and boundless beauty of life by the sea.
As Southern Living eloquently states, coastal living is “a state of mind, an escape to the good life – to be enjoyed barefoot, of course.” It’s about embracing the simple pleasures, slowing down, and reconnecting with nature. And that ethos should be reflected in every aspect of the design, from the materials used to the overall flow and function of the space.
In my experience, the most successful coastal-inspired homes don’t just mimic the aesthetic – they seamlessly integrate the indoor and outdoor environments. Oversized windows that blur the boundaries between the two, expansive covered patios that extend the living space, and natural elements like driftwood and beach stones that bring a little bit of the outside in – these are the details that truly capture the essence of seaside living.
Coastal Design for Every Home
At the end of the day, coastal design isn’t just about replicating the look of a beach house. It’s about evoking the feeling – that sense of calm, comfort, and connection to nature that we all crave. And the best part is, you don’t have to be a stone’s throw from the ocean to achieve it.
Whether you live in a cozy bungalow in the heart of the city or a sprawling estate nestled in the woods, you can infuse your home with the soothing serenity of the coast. All it takes is a little creativity, a keen eye for natural materials and textures, and a willingness to embrace the relaxed, laid-back vibe that defines life by the sea.
So if you’re dreaming of that perfect seaside sanctuary, I’d be honored to help you bring that vision to life. Together, we can craft a space that feels like a true escape – a haven where you can kick off your shoes, breathe in the salty air, and let the worries of the world melt away. Because at the end of the day, that’s what coastal living is all about.
