Coastal Chic

The one place where I can always find peace and escape is at the beach. This year, deciding whether or not to head to the beach is a decision that can cause its own stress. I may find a place where I can still socially distance from others but still enjoy the sun and sea. Meanwhile, we can always add a little coastal inspiration to our own homes to help us destress and enjoy memories of the shore. Here are a few ways to add chic coastal touches to your home!

Outdoor Oasis

You can create your own outdoor beach vibe, even if your home is completely landlocked! Create a dreamy swing like the one above and add coastal colors like navy and turquoise. With sea-themed pillows, a tray for drinks and a book, and a throw for chilly evenings, you can relax and dream of faraway places.

Sand and Sea

If you want that cool and calm vibe of a Hamptons beach house, consider a kitchen that offers the best of sand and sea. In the kitchen above, I selected flooring in a pale tone that works wonderfully with bright white cabinetry and walls. Then bring in a few accessories in cerulean and pale sage and you have the perfect combination of earth and water vibes.

Hang Ten

Those in the know are using vintage surfboards as cool accessories in homes even far from the sea. I used the one above in a living room, but this would also be a fun surprise in a guest bath or in a teen’s bedroom. They’ll be dreaming of mondo waves every night!

Hint, Don’t Holler

Your decor doesn’t have to scream “beach house'“ to give you that summertime vibe. In the guest room above, I used the colors to tell the story, with beautiful blues and a hot shot of coral. And in the wallpaper, those concentric circles make the viewer think of pools of water - another great inspiration!

Make Waves

Shapely tiles can also add a water-themed look, without being over beachy. I loved using the Studio Moderne Parliament tiles from Walker Zanger. The elongated hexagon in this glass-like look creates an illusion of movement in water.

Speak Softly

If you do decide to go all in with a seashore look, keep it simple and understated. I love this shell lamp because the petal-like pattern doesn’t look like a seen-it-before design. In fact, some viewers won’t realize it’s a beach house look unless they look closer!

Here’s hoping we can all hit the beach next year without fear!

Warmly,

Beth