Recently, I realized that since I started adding a touch of modern coastal decor to our home, I don’t need to do a lot of seasonal decorating. By sticking with a color scheme that reflects the ocean and sky–including crisp whites, deep blues and neutral hues–everything seems to work together, no matter what time of year it is! With fall right around the corner, I plan to include heavier texture fabrics with some darker accents to embrace the cooler months ahead.
Because it’s based on natural elements, coastal décor never goes out of style. As design styles and trends change, coastal style can easily evolve and adapt–for example, incorporating lighter wood tones rather than dark, or featuring softer neutral hues rather than bright colors.
Looking to bring a touch of seaside serenity to your living space? Look no further! I’ve got some fantastic modern coastal decorating ideas that will make your home feel like a beachside retreat.
Embrace the Soothing Color Palette
Opt for soft blues, sandy neutrals, and crisp whites to create a calming coastal vibe. These colors will instantly transport you to the shores, making your home feel like a tranquil oasis. My home is filled with neutrals with lots of texture. The majority of our walls are Sherwin Williams Pure White or Benjamin Moore Classic Gray. Both paint colors are perfect for a modern coastal vibe. I love to keep main furniture pieces neutral while adding color with throw pills, rugs and home decor.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural materials like rattan, jute, and driftwood. These textures add a touch of coastal charm and create a relaxed atmosphere. One of my favorite ways to incorporate these elements into a modern coastal design is with wool/jute rug combinations. These rugs are the best of both worlds by combining the textured look of jute with the softness of wool.
Light and Airy Fabrics
Opt for light and breezy fabrics like linen or cotton to create an airy feel. Sheer curtains, flowy drapes, and lightweight throws will let the natural light in and give your home a fresh, beachy ambiance. Linen bedding is a great way to achieve a modern coastal look in the bedroom.
Coastal-inspired Artwork
Hang up some coastal-inspired artwork featuring seascapes, beach scenes, or neutral abstract art . These pieces will transport you to the ocean’s edge and add a splash of color to your walls. We have many coastal art pieces all throughout our home. One of my absolute favorite designers for coastal art is Deb Presutto Art.
Indoor Greenery
Bring the coastal landscape indoors with some lush green plants. Not only do they purify the air, but they also create a tropical ambiance that complements the coastal theme perfectly. As much as I love real plants, I’m not the best at keeping them alive. We have many faux ferns in our home which look amazing and are perfect to achieve that modern coastal look.
Implementing the Modern Coastal Vibe
Some things to avoid overdoing in a modern coastal or beach themed home include signs, rope accents, anchors, nautical themes, ocean waves, and lobster, crab, sea urchin, and starfish motifs.
For a modern coastal look, start with a background of white walls, as well as soft natural colors of the sand and sky, and crisp, casual fabrics like cotton and linen. Then add in some natural materials, including lots of baskets, light woods, and lovely textures through rugs, throw pillows, and throw blankets.
Remember, modern coastal decorating is all about creating a relaxed and inviting space that reflects the beauty of the seaside. So, let your imagination run wild and infuse your home with the uplifting vibes of the coast!
