How to Decorate Your Home in Nautical and Coastal Style Décor

Coastal or nautical décor is a timeless style that brings the relaxing, serene essence of the seaside into your home. Whether you live near the ocean or just want to evoke the feel of coastal living, this décor style offers a beautiful way to bring light, breezy, and fresh elements into your space. Nautical décor isn’t just about anchors and lighthouses — it’s about incorporating the textures, colors, and vibes of the coast in a subtle, sophisticated way.

We’ll walk through how to decorate each part of your home with coastal and nautical-inspired elements, offering design ideas that will help you achieve that refreshing, ocean-side feel. And don't forget to check out our coastal decor to start your decorating adventure!

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Nautical and Coastal Style Décor

   • Defining Nautical/Coastal Décor
   • Key Elements of Coastal Design
   • The Difference Between Nautical and Coastal Styles
     
     

2. Choosing the Perfect Color Palette

   • Soft, Airy Neutrals
   • Coastal Blues and Seafoam Greens
   • Contrasting Accents: Deep Navy and Coral
     
     

3. Furniture for a Coastal Look

   • Light Wood and Whitewashed Pieces
   • Wicker and Rattan Furniture
   • Upholstered Pieces with Casual, Comfortable Lines
     
     

4. Coastal and Nautical Accessories

   • Rope Accents and Textures
   • Nautical Motifs: Anchors, Shells, and Sailboats
   • Incorporating Maps, Navigation Charts, and Compass Designs
     
     

5. Coastal Textiles: Rugs, Pillows, and Curtains

   • Stripes: A Nautical Classic
   • Light and Breezy Fabrics
   • Rugs in Natural Fibers
     
     

6. Bringing the Outdoors In: Natural Materials

   • Driftwood and Reclaimed Wood
   • Seashells and Coral
   • Beach-Inspired Art and Photography
     
     

7. Coastal Lighting and Fixtures

   • Light Fixtures That Mimic the Coast
   • Nautical Lanterns and Pendants
   • Creating a Sun-Kissed Atmosphere with Natural Light
     
     

8. Designing Coastal-Inspired Rooms

   • Coastal Living Room Design
   • Coastal Bedroom Décor
   • Coastal Kitchen and Dining Room Ideas
     
     

9. Final Touches to Perfect Your Coastal Home

   • Indoor Plants with Coastal Vibes
   • Outdoor Spaces: Patios and Porches
   • Coastal Scented Candles and Fresh Air

1. Understanding Nautical and Coastal Style Décor

Defining Nautical/Coastal Décor

Nautical and coastal décor draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the ocean, beach, and marine life. The primary goal of this style is to evoke a calm, breezy, and fresh feel in your home, as if you’re living in a beachside retreat. While coastal décor emphasizes neutral tones, soft blues, and natural materials, nautical décor leans toward traditional maritime elements such as anchors, navy blue, and stripes.

Coastal style is versatile and can range from a casual beach shack look to a more elegant Hamptons-inspired retreat. What unites the various interpretations of coastal design is the sense of lightness and relaxation it brings into a space.

Key Elements of Coastal Design

• Natural Light: Maximizing sunlight is key to creating that bright, airy coastal atmosphere.
• Soft Color Palettes: Gentle neutrals, whites, and soft blues form the foundation of coastal décor.
• Organic Textures: Natural fibers like jute, wicker, and rattan add texture and warmth.
• Nautical and Ocean-Inspired Motifs: Elements such as rope, sailboats, and sea life are common accents.
• Casual, Comfortable Furniture: Furniture is simple and inviting, often with a lived-in, relaxed look.

The Difference Between Nautical and Coastal Styles

While nautical and coastal styles are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences:

• Coastal Style emphasizes softer tones, more organic materials, and a generally less themed, more relaxed feel. It’s about evoking the essence of beach living with natural textures and colors found at the shore.
• Nautical Style is more thematic, with specific maritime elements like anchors, ship wheels, and bold navy blues combined with crisp whites. It often incorporates specific boating or ocean navigation motifs, creating a more traditional seaside aesthetic.

2. Choosing the Perfect Color Palette

The color palette in coastal design is critical to setting the tone and mood. The goal is to evoke the freshness and tranquility of the ocean and beach, using soft, soothing colors inspired by the sea, sky, and sand.

Soft, Airy Neutrals

At the core of coastal style is a palette dominated by soft, airy neutrals. Think whites, creams, and light beige tones that mimic the color of sand and shells. These neutral shades help make spaces feel open and airy, creating a light and breezy ambiance.

• Whitewashed Walls: White or off-white walls provide a blank canvas that reflects light and gives rooms an expansive, beachy feel.
• Neutral Sofas and Furniture: Light-colored upholstered furniture or wood pieces with whitewashed finishes create a fresh, clean look.

Coastal Blues and Seafoam Greens

The coastal aesthetic thrives on the use of blue and green hues, which mimic the colors of the sea and sky. Soft blues, aqua, seafoam green, and pale turquoise are popular choices for bringing a tranquil ocean vibe indoors.

• Light Blue Walls or Accents: Pale blue on walls or in accent pieces adds a cooling, calming effect, perfect for living rooms or bedrooms.
• Seafoam Green Accessories: Small décor items like throw pillows, vases, or rugs in soft greens can subtly introduce a coastal vibe without being overwhelming.

Contrasting Accents: Deep Navy and Coral

To bring contrast and a pop of color, deep navy blue is often used as an accent in nautical and coastal design. Coral, a bright, warm hue, is also a great option to inject life and energy into a predominantly soft palette.

• Navy and White Stripes: Incorporating stripes in navy and white — a hallmark of nautical style — can bring a bold yet classic look to coastal interiors.
• Coral Accents: Coral-colored pillows, lamps, or artwork can add a splash of warmth and balance cooler shades like blue and white.

3. Furniture for a Coastal Look

Furniture plays a major role in achieving a coastal or nautical aesthetic. Light woods, casual upholstery, and natural textures are the hallmarks of this style.

Light Wood and Whitewashed Pieces

Furniture in a coastal home should be simple, clean, and functional. Whitewashed, distressed, or natural wood pieces are a common feature in coastal design. These finishes mimic the look of weathered driftwood, evoking the feeling of being on the beach.

• Driftwood-Inspired Tables: Look for coffee or side tables made from reclaimed or whitewashed wood to reinforce the natural theme. Our Fish and Anchor coastal table also provides a splash of whimsy to your coastal theme.
• Whitewashed Shelves and Cabinets: Open shelving with a whitewashed or light wood finish can create an airy, spacious feel while offering storage for decorative coastal accents.

Wicker and Rattan Furniture

Wicker, rattan, and woven furniture pieces bring a relaxed, organic vibe into coastal homes. These materials are lightweight, breathable, and perfect for indoor-outdoor living spaces.

• Wicker Armchairs: Wicker or rattan armchairs are ideal for a living room or sunroom, adding a touch of the outdoors inside.
• Rattan Headboards or Light Fixtures: In bedrooms or dining spaces, incorporating a rattan headboard or light fixture can subtly introduce texture and a coastal theme.

Upholstered Pieces with Casual, Comfortable Lines

Coastal furniture tends to have a casual, comfortable look. Choose large, upholstered sofas and chairs with soft fabrics like linen or cotton in neutral or soft blue tones.

• Slipcovered Sofas: Slipcovered furniture, particularly in light neutral or soft blue shades, is ideal for a relaxed coastal living room.
• Ottomans and Cushions: Upholstered ottomans or floor cushions provide extra seating and comfort, perfect for a laid-back, beach-house feel.

4. Coastal and Nautical Accessories

Accessories are where you can truly bring the coastal and nautical theme to life. This is the area to be a bit playful and introduce decorative elements that emphasize your beachy theme.

Rope Accents and Textures

Rope is a quintessential material in nautical décor, adding an authentic touch to any coastal space. Look for ways to incorporate rope into decorative items, like mirrors, baskets, or lighting fixtures.

• Rope Mirrors: Mirrors framed with thick, nautical-style rope can be a striking feature in an entryway or bathroom.
• Rope-Handled Baskets: Baskets with rope handles can serve as functional and stylish storage solutions, adding a textured, nautical touch.

Nautical Motifs: Anchors, Shells, Marine Life and Sailboats

Nautical motifs like anchors, fish, octopus, birds, sailboats, and seashells are classic elements of seaside décor. These can be subtly incorporated through artwork, throw pillows, or small decorative items.

• Anchor Pillows: Adding a few throw pillows with anchor designs can bring a playful nautical vibe to a living room or bedroom.
• Seashell Displays: Seashells displayed in glass jars or shadow boxes can create a natural, beach-inspired centerpiece.
• Wall Decor: Shelves, wall hooks, and other decorative wall decor in the coastal style can be an affordable way to add those beach-side vibes to your interior. Our silver octopus wall hooks are a great example!  Our vintage ships wheel is another!

Incorporating Maps, Navigation Charts, and Compass Designs

For a more refined take on nautical décor, consider using maps, vintage navigation charts, or compass motifs. These elements add a sense of adventure and travel, perfect for evoking the spirit of the sea.

• Map Prints: Frame vintage navigation charts or world maps for wall art that feels both sophisticated and coastal.
• Compass Décor: Incorporate compass designs in clocks, rugs, or decorative trays to subtly nod to the seafaring lifestyle.

5. Coastal Textiles: Rugs, Pillows, and Curtains

Textiles are an easy way to introduce the patterns and textures of coastal living into your home. Opt for light, breezy fabrics that enhance the relaxed, beachy feel.

Stripes: A Nautical Classic

Stripes, particularly in blue and white, are a classic coastal motif that instantly evokes nautical vibes. They can be introduced in many forms, from throw pillows to rugs and curtains.

• Striped Pillows: Blue-and-white striped pillows are a simple, timeless way to bring a nautical touch to your living room or bedroom.
• Striped Rugs: For a bolder statement, consider a striped rug in the entryway, living room, or hallway.

Light and Breezy Fabrics

Choose fabrics that are light and airy, such as cotton, linen, or muslin. These materials work well for curtains, upholstery, and bedding, making spaces feel breezy and open.

• Sheer Curtains: Light, sheer curtains allow natural light to flow through and contribute to the airy, open feel of coastal décor.
• Linen Bedding: In the bedroom, linen bedding in soft neutrals or pastels adds a casual, coastal charm.

Rugs in Natural Fibers

Natural fiber rugs made from jute, sisal, or seagrass bring organic texture into a coastal room, grounding the space while adding a touch of nature.

• Jute or Sisal Rugs: These rugs are durable and bring a natural, beachy texture to your home’s flooring.
• Layered Rugs: Consider layering a small jute rug under a striped or patterned rug for added texture and depth.

6. Bringing the Outdoors In: Natural Materials

The beauty of coastal style lies in its strong connection to nature. Incorporating natural materials like wood, shells, and driftwood helps blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Driftwood and Reclaimed Wood

Driftwood and reclaimed wood pieces add a rugged, natural texture that feels at home in a coastal interior. These materials can be used in both furniture and decorative accessories.

• Driftwood Sculptures: Small driftwood sculptures or candle holders can add a rustic, beachy feel to side tables or mantels.
• Reclaimed Wall Decor: Our reclaimed distressed wood wall oar is a great example of how the wonderful texture of vintage wood can add a splash of coastal decor to your walls.
• Reclaimed Wood Furniture: Reclaimed wood tables or shelving bring the essence of the seaside into your home with their weathered appearance.

Seashells and Coral

Seashells, coral, and other beach treasures can serve as beautiful decorative elements that bring the ocean indoors.

• Seashell Garlands: Create a garland or mobile made from seashells to hang in a window or across a mantel.
• Coral Displays: Display pieces of coral in a glass dome or on a shelf as a natural, elegant centerpiece.

Beach-Inspired Art and Photography

Artwork and photography that depicts the ocean, beaches, or coastal scenes are a perfect fit for a nautical home. Consider incorporating:

• Ocean Photography: Large-scale ocean photography prints can serve as a calming focal point in your living room or bedroom.
• Beach Landscape Paintings: Seaside or beach landscape paintings in soft, muted tones can add an artistic touch to your walls.

7. Coastal Lighting and Fixtures

Lighting in a coastal home should feel natural, warm, and relaxed. Fixtures that evoke the sea or seaside living can help complete the look.

Light Fixtures That Mimic the Coast

Coastal lighting often uses natural materials like wood, rattan, or rope. Choose light fixtures that feel organic and handmade for a laid-back vibe.

• Rattan Pendant Lights: A rattan pendant light over a dining table or in a living space adds texture and warmth.
• Driftwood Chandeliers: A chandelier made from driftwood or reclaimed wood can be a beautiful, statement-making piece in a coastal home.

Nautical Lanterns and Pendants

Nautical-style lanterns are another staple of coastal lighting. These fixtures, often made from brass, iron, or rope, offer a more thematic, maritime look.

• Hanging Lanterns: Hanging lanterns over an entryway or outdoor patio can evoke the feel of an old seaside cottage.
• Tabletop Lanterns: Placing lanterns with high-key vintage-inspired finishes, amplifies coastal the vibes. Our lighthouse tealight holder may just fit the bill!
• Brass or Copper Fixtures: Opt for metallic finishes like brass or copper to give your space a nautical, ship-inspired feel.

Creating a Sun-Kissed Atmosphere with Natural Light

Natural light is essential to coastal décor. Keep window treatments light and breezy to let in as much sunlight as possible.

• Maximizing Windows: If possible, enlarge windows or choose French doors to increase the amount of natural light.
• Reflective Surfaces: Mirrors and glass accents can help reflect natural light, making spaces feel brighter and more open.

8. Designing Coastal-Inspired Rooms

Coastal design can be applied to every room in your home, from the living room to the kitchen. Here’s how to create coastal-inspired spaces throughout your house:

Coastal Living Room Design

A coastal living room should feel open, airy, and relaxed. Start with a neutral foundation and add layers of blue and green hues through textiles, artwork, and accessories.

• Neutral Furniture with Blue Accents: Choose a white or beige sofa, then introduce coastal colors with pillows, throws, and rugs.
• Beach-Inspired Art: Hang artwork or photography that reflects coastal landscapes or marine life to bring the theme home.

Coastal Bedroom Décor

In a coastal bedroom, comfort is key. Use light, breathable fabrics and natural textures to create a serene, inviting retreat.

• Linen Bedding: Soft linen bedding in neutral or pastel tones enhances the coastal vibe.
• Rattan or Driftwood Headboards: A headboard made from natural materials like rattan or driftwood adds texture and coastal charm.

Coastal Kitchen and Dining Room Ideas

In the kitchen and dining room, simplicity and functionality are key. Opt for natural materials and finishes that echo the beachy theme.

• White and Blue Kitchen: A white kitchen with blue accents, such as a backsplash or island, brings a fresh, coastal feel.
• Farmhouse Table with Wicker Chairs: Pair a farmhouse-style wooden table with wicker or rattan chairs to create a casual, beachy dining space.

9. Final Touches to Perfect Your Coastal Home

Indoor Plants with Coastal Vibes

Plants can breathe life into a coastal home. Choose varieties that complement the coastal theme, such as succulents, ferns, or potted palms.

• Tropical Plants: Large potted palms or ferns can bring the feeling of a tropical beach indoors.
• Succulents and Air Plants: Low-maintenance succulents and air plants work well with the laid-back coastal vibe and add pops of green.

Outdoor Spaces: Patios and Porches

Extend the coastal vibe to your outdoor spaces by creating a cozy, beach-inspired patio or porch.

• Wicker or Teak Furniture: Outdoor furniture made from wicker, teak, or rattan brings a natural, coastal feel to your outdoor area.
• Outdoor Lanterns: Hang lantern-style lighting on your porch or patio to create a soft, nautical ambiance in the evenings.

Coastal Scented Candles and Fresh Air

Scents can also play a role in evoking the feel of the ocean. Scented candles in fragrances like sea salt, coconut, or ocean breeze can enhance the coastal atmosphere.

• Scented Candles: Use candles with ocean-inspired scents to create a beachy atmosphere.
• Open Windows: Let fresh air flow through your home by keeping windows open and allowing sea breezes (or their equivalent) to fill the space.

Conclusion

Decorating your home with coastal decor is about more than just using blue and white colors or adding a few seaside trinkets. It’s about creating a space that feels light, airy, and connected to nature. By using natural materials, soft color palettes, and thoughtful décor accents, you can bring the essence of the beach into your home and enjoy that relaxed, breezy feel year-round. Whether you’re drawn to a casual, beachy style or a more polished, Hamptons-inspired look, coastal décor offers endless possibilities to craft a serene, inviting space