The Designer’s Guide To Coastal Chic
Relaxed. Refined. Rooted in nature.
Coastal chic is more than just seashells and stripes—it's a lifestyle aesthetic that blends the breezy ease of seaside living with polished, intentional design. Whether you’re steps from the shore or in a city condo, this guide from the designers at Beach Hauze will help you create a space that feels calm, airy, and effortlessly elegant.
1. Start with a Soft & Natural Palette
The heart of coastal chic lies in a muted, nature-inspired color story. Think driftwood taupes, sea glass blues, sandy whites, and the gentle greens of dune grass. These shades instantly evoke calm and provide the perfect backdrop for layering texture and warmth.
Designer Tip: Try Benjamin Moore's “White Dove,” “Pale Oak,” or “Beach Glass” for a soft foundation.
2. Embrace Texture Everywhere
Coastal chic isn’t flat—it’s deeply tactile. Introduce a variety of natural textures like:
Rattan & cane furniture
Linen drapes and upholstery
Jute or sisal rugs
Grasscloth wallpaper
Raw woods and whitewashed finishes
These materials add warmth and keep the space grounded in organic beauty.
3. Go Light with Furnishings
Skip anything heavy or overly ornate. Instead, opt for:
Slipcovered sofas in white or oatmeal linen
Driftwood-style coffee tables
Open shelving with styled coastal accessories
Coastal chic loves light, clean lines with an unfussy feel—like a breath of fresh air.
4. Use Lighting as a Design Moment
Your lighting should be functional, but it can also be sculptural. Look for:
Woven pendants
Matte brass sconces
Ceramic or coastal-glazed lamps
Keep the tones warm and the scale intentional—this is a great opportunity to make a statement without clutter.
5. Elevate the Details
The charm is in the details. Add coastal elegance with:
Layered throw pillows in soft stripes, block prints, and textured weaves
Ceramic vases, coral-inspired decor, and glass vessels
Vintage artwork, like sailboat sketches or seascape paintings
Soft throws draped over armchairs or the end of a bed
6. Don’t Forget the Walls
Walls are the perfect canvas to express your coastal personality. Consider:
Subtle wallpaper in botanical or textured finishes
Painted paneling or shiplap
Gallery walls of beachy black-and-white photography
Want help pulling it all together? Our team at Beach Hauze can design a full room concept around your favorite wallpaper or paint color.
7. Create Flow from Room to Room
Coastal chic doesn’t have to mean matching everything, but it should feel cohesive. Let one room flow naturally into the next by repeating materials, tones, or key pieces throughout the home.
Pro Service: Book a full-service interior design package with Beach Hauze to ensure every space in your home speaks the same serene, elevated language.
Whether you’re starting fresh or refreshing your existing space, our designers are here to help. From paint consultations to full-service room transformations, we make the journey simple—and beautiful.
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