Coastal Chic

Look out to sea, listen to the waves and breathe in the fresh, salty air. Wouldn't it be lovely if a seaside holiday could last all year? Bring the feeling of a beach house into your home with a coastal interior style.

1. Coastal colours: shades of the sea
2. A harmonious mix of natural materials
3. Coastal accessories: designs that bring a holiday feeling
4. Coastal table decorations
5. How to create a coastal interior

Coastal colours: shades of the sea

No colour defines coastal interiors quite like blue. Associated with the sea, it comes in many different shades. Blue tones have a relaxing, calming effect, which is why they are often used in interiors. This fascination was also reflected in the Water colour trend introduced at the beginning of the year.

Classic coastal style pairs a deep navy blue with rich red and bright white. This colour combination takes inspiration from seafaring and traditional sailors' uniforms.

Inspired by the windswept beaches of the northern hemisphere, we now often soften the palette with lighter blues, stone grey and sandy shades. This relaxed combination gives the home a fresh, airy feel.

A harmonious mix of natural materials

The sea is full of contrasts: some days it is rough and wild, on others it is calm, with gentle waves. Coastal interiors reflect this contrast, too.

Rough textures, such as seagrass baskets and jute rugs, make a strong impression. Wood also plays an important role, bringing to mind old sailing boats and driftwood shaped by the sea. While dark, polished timber was once typical of coastal style, lighter, natural woods are more common today. They can be left raw and uneven, as if weathered by the salty sea air.

Balance these rugged materials with softer textures such as linen and cotton. Light fabrics in pale shades work particularly well. Minimalist cushions and tablecloths recall the simple lives of fishermen and bring a sense of freshness and clarity. A sheer curtain moving gently in the breeze and carrying the scent of fresh laundry invites you to daydream.

Coloured glass adds another interesting element to the mix. Decorative bottles, vases and tealight holders bring a light, transparent quality that works particularly well with coastal style.

Coastal accessories: designs that bring a holiday feeling

Few interior styles feature as many motifs as coastal design. Inspired by life along the coast, seabirds and marine animals find their way into our homes. Playful motifs such as ships, pirates and mermaids appeal to the child in us.

Coastal decorations were once considered kitsch. Danish designer Hans Bølling and Icelandic designer Sigurjón Pálsson show that this need not be the case. Their modern forms and high-quality materials make a considered impression. Place your favourite coastal accessory thoughtfully to create an eye-catching accent.

Stripes are the classic pattern of coastal style. Inspired by sailors' uniforms, they remain popular in both fashion and interiors. Scandinavian brands such as Marimekko offer striped textiles in a range of colours.

Coastal table decorations

Coastal table decorations create a relaxed, holiday feel for everyday meals as well as for guests. Add small finds and personal holiday souvenirs, if you like. Smooth pebbles, unusual shells and coastal accessories help create a cohesive look.

Complete the table setting with the right ceramics. Coastal tableware is characterised by simplicity and a clean look. Natural-looking tableware with a rustic feel works particularly well with the other materials. It does not have to be white: choose ceramics with a hint of colour. Scandinavian brands such as Audo and Iittala make pared-back tableware in muted blues and greys.

How to create a coastal interior

Remember to leave some open space. Part of the appeal of the coast is the seemingly endless expanse of the sea. We want to preserve that feeling of freedom at home, too.

The coastal look also has an authentic feel. Surround yourself with natural materials found in coastal regions, and embrace imperfections and uneven textures. Arrange your pieces simply and casually; there is no need for elaborate displays.

The beauty of coastal style is that just a few accessories can bring a fresh breeze into your home. Give it a try.

Photo credit: Carina vom Dorff, @wohngoldstueck