Coastal living rooms bring a relaxed, beachy feel to your home. They create a calming space where you can unwind after a long day.

You can easily transform your living room into a coastal retreat with a few simple changes. The right colors, textures, and decor pieces can make a big difference. This article will share 10 ideas to help you get that laid-back coastal vibe in your living space.

1. Seashell Shadow Boxes

Seashell shadow boxes are a great way to bring the beach into your coastal living room. These decorative displays showcase your favorite seashells and beach treasures in an eye-catching way.

You can create your own shadow box or buy one pre-made. Choose a box with a depth that fits your largest shells. Line the back with sand-colored fabric or actual sand for an authentic beach feel.

Arrange your shells in an appealing pattern inside the box. Mix different sizes, shapes, and colors for visual interest. Add other beach finds like sea glass, driftwood, or small starfish to enhance the coastal vibe.

Hang your seashell shadow box on a prominent wall in your living room. It will serve as a focal point and conversation starter. You can also place smaller boxes on shelves or side tables.

For a cohesive look, create multiple shadow boxes with different themes. One might feature only white shells, while another showcases colorful varieties. Group them together for maximum impact.

These displays not only look great but also preserve your beach memories. Each time you look at your shadow box, you’ll be reminded of sunny days by the sea.

2. Rattan Coffee Table

A rattan coffee table adds a touch of beachy charm to your coastal living room. This natural material brings warmth and texture, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Rattan tables come in various styles and shapes. Round, oval, or rectangular options can fit different room layouts. Some have glass tops for a more polished look, while others showcase the woven texture.

You can pair your rattan table with other coastal elements. Place a woven tray on top to hold seashells or driftwood. Add a few coastal-themed books or magazines for a laid-back vibe.

Rattan is sturdy and lightweight, making it easy to move around. This flexibility allows you to rearrange your space as needed. It’s also simple to clean, which is great for busy households.

Consider the color of your rattan table. Natural tones blend well with most coastal color schemes. Whitewashed or painted rattan can offer a brighter, more modern look.

Your rattan coffee table can become a focal point in the room. Surround it with comfortable seating to create a cozy gathering spot. It’s perfect for casual entertaining or relaxing with family.

3. Nautical Rope Lanterns

Nautical rope lanterns add a charming touch to your coastal living room. These unique light fixtures bring a seafaring vibe and create a warm, cozy atmosphere.

You can find rope lanterns in various shapes and sizes. Some feature woven rope designs around glass or metal frames. Others are made entirely of rope with bulbs nestled inside.

Hang these lanterns from your ceiling for a striking effect. They work well over dining tables or in corners to create ambient lighting. You can also place them on side tables or shelves for a more subtle nautical accent.

Rope lanterns pair nicely with other coastal decor elements. Try combining them with driftwood pieces or seashell displays. This creates a cohesive beach-inspired look in your living space.

Choose lanterns with warm-toned bulbs to enhance the relaxed atmosphere. Soft, golden light mimics the glow of sunset on the beach. It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day.

For a DIY project, you can make your own rope lantern. Wrap thick nautical rope around a plain glass jar or vase. Add a candle or battery-operated light inside for a homemade coastal accent.

4. Wicker Accent Chair

A wicker accent chair can add a beachy, laid-back feel to your coastal living room. This natural material brings texture and warmth to the space.

Choose a wicker chair with a comfortable cushion in a light, sea-inspired color. Soft blues, sandy beiges, or crisp whites work well.

Place your wicker chair near a window to create a cozy reading nook. Add a small side table and a soft throw blanket for extra comfort.

For a modern twist, look for wicker chairs with sleek metal legs. This style blends traditional coastal elements with contemporary design.

You can also opt for a hanging wicker chair to add a fun, playful touch to your living room. Hang it from a sturdy ceiling beam or use a freestanding frame.

Don’t forget to accessorize your wicker chair. A small lumbar pillow with a nautical pattern can enhance the coastal theme.

If you have space, consider a wicker loveseat or settee instead of a single chair. This provides more seating while maintaining the beachy vibe.

Remember to care for your wicker furniture. Regular dusting and occasional cleaning will keep it looking fresh and inviting for years to come.

5. Ocean-Themed Wall Art

Ocean-themed wall art can transform your coastal living room into a serene seaside retreat. Large canvas prints of crashing waves or tranquil beaches bring the ocean’s beauty indoors. You can choose from photographs, paintings, or even abstract interpretations of marine scenes.

Consider hanging a set of framed vintage nautical maps or charts for a touch of maritime history. These pieces add character and spark conversations about far-off places. Wooden signs with beach-related quotes or sayings are another fun option to reinforce the coastal theme.

For a more natural look, try mounting driftwood sculptures or arrangements on your walls. These weathered pieces of wood bring texture and a genuine beachy feel to your space. You can also display collections of seashells or starfish in shadow boxes for a personal touch.

Metal wall sculptures of sea creatures like fish, turtles, or seahorses can add dimension and visual interest. These pieces catch the light and create movement, mimicking the dynamic nature of ocean life.

Don’t forget about the power of color in your wall art choices. Blues, greens, and sandy neutrals help maintain the coastal vibe. Mix and match different styles and sizes of art to create a gallery wall that captures the essence of coastal living.

6. Striped Coastal Rugs

Striped coastal rugs can add a nautical feel to your living room. They bring in a classic seaside pattern that instantly makes you think of the beach.

You can choose rugs with blue and white stripes for a traditional look. These colors mimic the ocean and sky, creating a calming atmosphere.

For a bolder style, try rugs with wider stripes or more colors. Mixing in shades of tan or gray can give your space a modern coastal vibe.

Place a striped rug under your coffee table to define the seating area. This helps tie the room together and adds a soft touch underfoot.

You can also use smaller striped rugs as accents. Put them near doorways or in front of sofas to add pops of coastal charm throughout the room.

When picking a striped rug, think about the size of your space. A large rug can make a room feel bigger, while smaller rugs work well in cozy nooks.

Remember to match the rug’s colors with your other decor. This creates a cohesive look that enhances your coastal theme.

7. Driftwood Candle Holders

Driftwood candle holders bring a piece of the beach into your coastal living room. These unique accessories add a natural, rustic touch to your space.

You can find driftwood candle holders in various sizes and styles. Some hold a single candle, while others have space for multiple flames.

Consider placing driftwood candle holders on your coffee table or mantel. They work well as centerpieces or accent pieces throughout the room.

For a DIY project, you can make your own driftwood candle holders. Collect pieces of driftwood from the beach and attach candle cups to them.

Mix and match different shapes and sizes of driftwood for an interesting display. Group several candle holders together to create a focal point.

The soft glow of candles in driftwood holders adds warmth to your coastal living room. It creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing evenings.

Choose unscented candles to let the natural scent of the driftwood shine through. Or pick ocean-inspired scents like sea salt or beach grass for extra coastal flair.

Remember to always follow fire safety rules when using candles in your home. Never leave burning candles unattended, and keep them away from flammable items.

8. Coral Sculptures

Coral sculptures can add a unique touch to your coastal living room. These eye-catching pieces bring the beauty of the ocean indoors. You can find coral-inspired sculptures in various materials like ceramic, resin, or metal.

Place a large coral sculpture as a centerpiece on your coffee table. It will draw attention and spark conversations. For a subtle look, try smaller coral-shaped objects on shelves or side tables.

White coral sculptures give a clean, classic feel. They blend well with many color schemes. If you want more drama, choose sculptures in bold colors like blue or orange.

Group different sizes and shapes of coral sculptures together. This creates an interesting display that mimics a reef. Mix in some seashells or driftwood for added coastal flair.

Coral wall sculptures are another option. Hang them above your sofa or fireplace for a striking focal point. These can range from realistic to abstract interpretations of coral.

Remember to balance your coral decor with other elements. Too many sculptures might overwhelm the space. A few well-placed pieces will achieve the relaxed coastal vibe you’re after.

9. Navy and White Throw Pillows

Navy and white throw pillows can add a nautical touch to your coastal living room. These colors create a classic seaside look that’s both stylish and relaxing.

You can mix different patterns and textures to make your space more interesting. Try striped pillows alongside solid ones for variety. Anchor prints or rope designs can also enhance the coastal theme.

Using different shades of navy can add depth. Lighter blues can complement the darker tones and create a soothing color palette. White pillows help brighten the space and balance out the darker hues.

For extra comfort, choose pillows in soft materials like cotton or linen. These fabrics feel nice and suit the laid-back coastal vibe. You can also add a few pillows with beach-inspired textures, like ones that mimic sand or shells.

Don’t forget about pillow placement. Arrange them in odd numbers on your sofa or chairs for a pleasing look. Mix up the sizes too – larger pillows in the back with smaller ones in front creates visual interest.

10. Bamboo Window Shades

Bamboo window shades add a natural, beachy touch to your coastal living room. These lightweight coverings filter sunlight while maintaining privacy.

You can choose from various styles of bamboo shades. Some are woven tightly for more coverage, while others have a looser weave for a airier feel.

The warm, golden tones of bamboo complement many coastal color schemes. They pair well with blues, whites, and sandy beiges often found in beach-inspired decor.

Bamboo shades are easy to install and operate. Most roll up smoothly with a simple pull of a cord or string.

These shades are also eco-friendly. Bamboo grows quickly and sustainably, making it a good choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

For extra light control, you can layer bamboo shades with light curtains. This combo allows you to adjust the room’s brightness throughout the day.

Bamboo shades work well in humid environments like coastal areas. They’re resistant to warping and mold, unlike some wooden blinds.

To clean your bamboo shades, simply dust them regularly with a soft brush or vacuum attachment. This keeps them looking fresh and new for years to come.

Understanding Coastal Aesthetics

Coastal design brings the calm and beauty of seaside living into your home. It uses light colors, natural materials, and beach-inspired decor to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Elements of Coastal Design

Coastal style focuses on creating an airy, open feel. Use light-colored furniture with clean lines. Add natural textures like woven baskets, jute rugs, and driftwood accents.

Bring in elements that remind you of the beach:

• Seashells
• Coral
• Starfish
• Beach glass

Stick to a simple color scheme with lots of white. Add pops of blue and green to mimic the ocean. Use sheer curtains to let in plenty of natural light.

Coastal design isn’t about nautical themes. Skip the anchors and ship wheels. Instead, use subtle nods to the sea like a bowl of sand dollars or framed beach photos.

Color Palettes for Coastal Living Rooms

The right colors are key for a coastal vibe. Start with a base of crisp whites and creamy neutrals. Add in shades of blue and green for a seaside feel.

Try these coastal color combos:

• White + navy + sand
• Pale blue + seafoam + white
• Gray + aqua + coral

Use blue as your main accent color. It comes in many shades that work for coastal style:

• Soft sky blue
• Deep navy
• Turquoise
• Teal

Bring in bits of yellow, coral, or sandy beige for warmth. These colors mimic sunlight and sand. Paint an accent wall in a soothing blue-gray for a calming effect.

Materials for a Coastal Vibe

The right materials are key to creating a relaxed coastal living room. Natural textures and soft colors help bring the beach indoors.

Natural Textures and Materials

Choose light woods like driftwood or whitewashed oak for furniture and accents. These give a weathered, beachy look.

Add woven items like rattan chairs or jute rugs for texture.

Linen and cotton fabrics work well for upholstery and curtains. Pick colors like white, cream, or pale blue. These breathable materials feel airy and casual.

Bring in natural elements from the shore. Display shells, sea glass, or smooth stones in glass jars.

Hang artwork with coastal themes or beachy photographs.

Use rope accents for a nautical touch. Try a rope-wrapped mirror frame or doorstop.

Sisal rugs mimic the look of sand underfoot.

Sheer curtains let in lots of light, just like at the beach. Layer them with heavier drapes in a soft blue or green for a serene feel.

 

1

Share

 1