From Pieces to Placement: Beach House Décor Done Right
Decorating a beach house can be both a joy and a struggle. On the one hand, you have the possibility to choose and combine a variety of materials and decorations and turn your space into a dreamy coastal retreat. On the other hand, capturing the laid-back coastal vibe through décor is a lot more complicated than hanging a few paintings depicting marine life and seaside views on the walls or scattering some seashells around the house. In fact, most interior design experts would advise against it.
While highly popular and appealing – and seemingly easy – the coastal style is quite difficult to pull off and lends itself to many rookie mistakes as most people tend to follow the same clichés or overdo it by adding too many coastal touches and unintentionally creating interiors that look rather kitsch and cheap. So, if you want to avoid these common pitfalls and achieve a refined and elegant coastal décor, here are a few recommendations that might help.
1. Take a cue from nature
The coastal style is about creating a space that encapsulates the mesmerizing beauty of the seaside environment and mirrors the tranquility and simplicity of coastal living, so it’s only normal to use nature as the main source of inspiration. However, in doing so, you need to be careful not to get too carried away and turn your house into a museum of natural science where your entire design revolves around pebbles, shells, driftwood, sea grass, sand, and whatever other natural elements reside in a coastal ecosystem and can be turned into ornaments. It’s one thing to want to hint at the beauty of the seaside landscape and literally bring it inside your home.
Instead of crowding every corner of your house with this kind of knick-knacks, you can evoke nature in a more subtle way by integrating pieces made of natural materials reminiscing about the outside world. Go for wood and wicker or rattan furniture. A rattan lamp or a driftwood coffee table, for example, will create the rustic feel that is so typical of coastal living, while rugs made of jute or seagrass can add texture and ensure a cozy ambiance.
2. Pick the perfect art pieces
One of the more effective and impactful ways to bring the coastal charm into your home while also infusing it with character and personality is to integrate artwork into your design. You can search for paintings and posters or look for original sculptures for sale and curate an art collection that fits your vision and elevates your interiors. The right pieces can tie the space together and add dimension to your rooms, creating a cohesive look.
While you may be inclined to choose art that speaks of the ocean and beach life in a rather literal manner, you might want to steer clear from the standard pieces such as stock photos and illustrations featuring maritime scenes or nautical items like ropes, compasses, and framed maps, and choose something a bit more sophisticated and creative. Word art, which is the epitome of kitsch, should also be avoided.
So, what is the alternative? Abstract artworks that reflect the coastal charm in a more subtle manner, black-and-white or sepia-toned prints that offer a timeless appeal, or unique pieces from local artists inspired by the area’s beaches, wildlife, or other specific attractions.
3. Find the right spot
Above the sofa: A large statement piece or a full gallery wall works beautifully above the living room couch. This is a prime spot to create a focal point in the room.
In the dining area: Hang a bold piece of artwork that complements your table setting. Landscapes or abstract works in calming colors can enhance the dining experience.
Entryways and hallways: Smaller pieces, such as framed paintings or prints, can add charm to these often-overlooked areas. Group them in threes for balance and visual interest.
Bedrooms: Place decorations that exude peace and leisure above the bed for a serene and restful vibe.
When placing art, aim for eye level and ensure that the pieces aren’t clashing with other decor elements. The goal is to enhance the overall design, not overwhelm it.
4. Integrate organic shapes
In coastal design, shapes are very important as they can hint at the beach and the sea without making it too obvious and overbearing. The contours and forms that dominate the design play a key role in creating an inviting and relaxing environment that harmonizes perfectly with the natural setting.
Clean lines, circular shapes, soft curves, and edges pay tribute to the coastal landscape, reminding us of the shapes the waves create as they hit the shoreline or the horizon line where the sea meets the sky. These simple touches create a soothing atmosphere and a balanced design.
5. Get creative with color palettes
No, navy is not the only color you can choose to decorate coastal interiors, but it’s definitely the most used one. So, for a fresh take on the coastal trend, you should explore other combinations that go beyond this limited approach.
A great option for beach houses would be to incorporate calming hues of blue and green, weathered greys, warm beiges, or soft, sandy neutrals as they give off a sense of elegance and tranquility. For a bolder look, you can integrate deep blue or bright coral accents.
As a final tip, you should also plan for negative space. When decorating a beach house, the less-is-more approach is usually the best approach. You don’t want your interiors to be overcluttered with all sorts of furnishings or décor items, so try to keep it simple and breezy.
Decorating your beach house is about creating a space that feels effortlessly connected to its environment. With the right mix of colors, furniture, and art, you can design a home that feels like a retreat while embodying the calming and rejuvenating spirit of the ocean. Let your decor reflect your personal style while celebrating the coastal charm that makes your beach house so special.
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