6 Coastal Interior Design Tips for a Beach-Inspired Home

May 21

Dreaming of ocean breezes, sun-washed colors, and that easy-breezy coastal feel, even if you're nowhere near the shoreline? Good news: a beach-inspired home isn't just for those lucky enough to live by the water. With the right design elements, you can bring that fresh, airy, and relaxed aesthetic to any space.

You may or may not already know this, but around this time in 2022, the beloved coastal grandmother trend on TikTok skyrocketed into popularity. Millennials and Gen Zers were united in their love for the minimalistic aesthetic and everything it stood for, including all-white attire, relaxed wine nights, and a going-to-bed-early mentality. Now, as the summer season approaches again, we’re thinking about beach-inspired homes, filled with good light and vibes so immaculate you could almost catch a whiff of the ocean from inside.

Whether you live by the sea or in a city apartment, here’s how to bring that coastal charm into your home with six easy, designer-approved tips.

6 Tips for Creating a Coastal Vibe in Interior Design

1.Embrace natural textures

Texture is going to be key in creating a coastal-inspired home. Lucky for you, there are so many to choose from! Linen and seagrass are both lovely additions, as is driftwood. Shellwork and woven textures are also great, and can be incorporated in a variety of features, too. By mixing and matching natural materials you’d find near the beach, you can create interest in your space and bring a bit of the outside in.

Why it works: Natural textures add depth and warmth, evoking the casual elegance of a beachfront retreat. We created a list on the best ways to incorporate natural elements into your summer decor.

2. Stick to a coastal color palette.

Think neutrals and all shades of natural greens and blues here. These cool, relaxing tones will bring the ocean–and all its calming properties–to mind. That being said, if you like pops of color, we think using a few accents of sunset-colored shades is a great idea! You can incorporate this palette through paint colors, furniture, drapes and bedding, and more.

Designer tip: Paint your walls in light, neutral shades and bring in color through soft furnishings like throw pillows, art, and ceramics.

3. Use unique but relevant accessories.

Less is more in coastal design. Instead of cluttering your home with knick-knacks, choose a few statement pieces that feel connected to the ocean: handmade pottery, a piece of coral, a reclaimed wood sculpture, or sea glass in a glass vase. Support local artists or look for handmade items that add authenticity and character to your home.

Real life inspo: One of our favorite client projects featured a custom turtle sculpture made by a local artisan. It became the room’s centerpiece and sparked countless conversations.

4. Let the light in.

Natural light is the backbone of any coastal-style home. Open up your space by using sheer or linen curtains that filter in daylight. Avoid heavy drapes or dark window coverings that block light. If your home doesn’t get much natural sunlight, use mirrors strategically to reflect what you have and invest in soft, warm lighting fixtures that mimic the glow of the sun.

Designer tip: Hang a large mirror across from a window to double the light in the room and make the space feel more expansive.

5. Add the right amount of nautical and coastal touches.

While it’s easy to overdo the beach theme, subtle nautical nods can bring charm and whimsy when done tastefully. Think marine-style lanterns, rope details, weathered signs, or art featuring coastal landscapes. Avoid kitschy overkill, like too many anchors or seashells. Instead, use refined versions of classic elements.

Keep it elevated: A single piece of rope-framed art or a lantern-style pendant light can offer a nod to the coast without feeling cliché.

6. Incorporate indoor-outdoor flow.

One of the joys of living by the sea is the seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. You can replicate this even in a city home. Use natural materials that work both indoors and out, like teak or wicker, and decorate patios or balconies with cozy, coastal-style furniture. If you don’t have outdoor space, bring the outdoors in with indoor plants like palms, monstera, or snake plants that evoke tropical environments.

Designer tip: Use sliding or French doors to open up to outdoor areas or even just let in a breeze. It's all about creating that feeling of fresh air and openness.

Ready to Transform Your Home into a Coastal Oasis?

At Bardi Designs, we help homeowners, builders, and architects create timeless interiors that feel relaxed, elevated, and truly personal. Whether you’re remodeling your living room or designing your dream beach-inspired space from the ground up, our team is here to help.

We specialize in turn-key interior design services, renovations, new construction, and adult community living, and we’d love to bring your vision to life.