Coastal Chic Interior Design Ideas

Whether you live by the sea or just want to bring a bit of that breezy, beachy charm into your home, coastal design is all about light, natural materials, and subtle nautical touches. Here are some ideas to help you infuse your space with coastal chic. 

1. Embrace a Light and Airy Colour Palette

The foundation of any coastal chic design is a soft, calming colour palette. Think shades of white, sandy beige, soft blues, and seafoam greens. These colours mimic the natural hues of the beach and ocean, creating a serene and spacious atmosphere. Use white or light-coloured walls as a canvas and add pops of blue or green through accessories, throw pillows, and artwork.

Featured: Bloomingville Musu Bamboo & Glass Lantern

2. Incorporate Natural Materials

Natural materials like driftwood, rattan, jute, and linen are key to achieving that laid-back coastal vibe. Consider a jute rug in the living room, wicker chairs, or a reclaimed wood coffee table. Curtains or blinds in light, breezy fabrics allow natural light to flood the room, enhancing the open and airy feel.

3. Add Nautical Touches

Subtle nautical elements can tie the coastal theme together without feeling over the top. Think rope accents, brass fixtures, and navy-striped cushions. You can also add vintage maps, compasses, or maritime lanterns for a touch of seafaring charm.

Pictured: Madam Stoltz Ceramic Fish Vase

4. Use Coastal Motifs

Fish motifs, shells, starfish, and coral patterns are classic coastal decor elements. Incorporate these into your design through artwork, throw blankets, or decorative bowls filled with collected seashells. A delightful seashell or fish vase can add character without overwhelming the space.

Pictured: HKliving Terracotta Shell Vase

5. Opt for Weathered and Whitewashed Finishes

Furniture and decor with a weathered, distressed, or whitewashed finish evoke the feeling of driftwood and sun-bleached beach huts. Look for pieces with a rustic, lived-in look to add authenticity to your coastal chic aesthetic.

6. Layer Textures for Depth

Mixing different textures adds depth and interest to your space. Combine smooth planters with rough jute rugs, soft linen cushions with wooden accents, and woven baskets for storage. This layering of textures brings warmth and cosiness to the cool coastal palette.

7. Bring in the Ocean Breeze with Scent

Complete your coastal chic interior with the fresh scents of the sea. Use candles, diffusers, or room sprays with fragrances like sea salt, eucalyptus, or coconut to evoke the refreshing feeling of a day at the beach.

Pictured: Varga Glass Fish Vase

Fisherman Aesthetic

If you’re not sold on coastal chic, then why not consider the 2025 take on this style: Fisherman Aesthetic. More directly inspired by the sea, the fisherman aesthetic is more focussed on fish-inspired prints, netting and seashell shapes becoming key points in home decor. 

The fisherman aesthetic blends nautical elements with rugged, cosy textures. Think rope details, woven materials, and maritime-inspired décor paired with earthy tones and weathered finishes.

Bring this aesthetic into your home with jute rugs, braided baskets, and furniture featuring rope or netting details. Add warmth with chunky knit throws, striped patterns, and rustic wood finishes. Look for quirky coastal nods, such as seashell accents or fish-inspired decor, to complete the theme. 

If you’d like to infuse your home with vitamin sea, take a peek at our coastal inspired accessories!