Interior coastal design makes a connection to the surrounding seascape.
Coastal color schemes borrow from vivid sunsets, sandy beaches,deep-blue seas, and lush, tropical surroundings.
Go serene and understated, mix it up with tropical prints and patterns, or land somewhere in between.
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn
No matter what, coastal design always stands up to the elements.
Ready for some inspiration?
Go Bold
Bright, vibrant colors are iconic on the coast.
Credit: Jillian Guyette
From pink Hawaiian sand to turquoise waters and palm leaf green, the inspiration is endless.
Pick a statement area to go bold with color or deck out the entire house.
“It’s one of my favorite moments in my home.”
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn
Use Natural Fibers
No beach house would be complete without the lush texture of natural fiber.
Try a natural fiber rug, which is super-durable and works great in virtually any space.
Materials that connect to the locationeven if you aren’t right on the beachare key to character building.
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Liz Strong
“Sisal is so right for the Lowcountry,” says interior designer Elizabeth Newman of thisKiawah Island home.
It can have a rough and rustic finish or be carefully painted for a more elegant look.
Newman chose to panel many of the house’s rooms in nautical-inspired shiplap.
Credit: PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREY W. GLENN; STYLING BY KENDRA SURFACE
The texture of wood adds interest to an all-white kitchen.
Channel The Landscape
To make a room feel connected to the outdoors, greenery is a must.
A thin layer of plexiglass covers the wallpaper for protection and easy care.
Credit: PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREY W. GLENN; STYLING BY KENDRA SURFACE
“Moving it upstairs to capture those views became really important.”
Curtains are necessary for privacy in a bedroom, but you could use sheers to maximize sunlight.
They provide some privacy, yet still keep that airy, light-filled quality we all love in coastal homes.
Credit: Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
Open Up The Kitchen
When it comes to coastal design, the view is key.
Instead of cramping the kitchen with bulky cabinets, go for open shelving.
This feature makes it easier for friends and family to help themselves and hang out while you’re cooking.
Credit: Photo: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
In ourPalmetto Bluff Idea House, architect Ken Pursley also included a large island with a cooktop.
“It’s like being at a Japanese steak house,” he says.
Add beachy appeal to these spaces with playful flooring.
Credit: Photo: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
“Patterned tile has returned,” Harper says, but the color combinations and finish are more subdued.
This cement tile requires zero grouting and is held in place with mastic.
This bedroom strikes the perfect balance.
Credit: Carmel Brantley
The wallpaper “is very adult and beach chic.
“I had the wainscot built 54 inches tall so the wallpaper wouldn’t overwhelm the space.”
Sandy-hued furniture and fabrics give the room a relaxed vibe.
Credit: Photo: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
In addition, layering window treatments, furniture, and flooring in natural materials serve as a neutral backdrop.
To keep it from falling flat, vary your shades and textures.
She chose neutral-toned, vintage furniture that blends sophistication and durability.
Credit: Brie Williams; Styling: Page Mullins
“It really became an art collection of furniture.”
Be Strategic With Seating
Beach houses often call for impromptu gatherings.
Even a stairwell landing can accommodate a game table.
Credit: Brie Williams; Styling: Page Mullins
Weather-Proof Everything
Stain resistance reigns supreme in a busy beach house.
One solution for combating spills is to use outdoor fabric on indoor furnishings.
“Outdoor furniture is not what it used to be!
Credit: Brie Williams; Styling: Page Mullins
It’s possible now to have old-fashioned charm and modern durability too,” says Bishop.
Washable linen slipcovers top the chaises and sofa, and the armchairs were stain treated.
“Now I don’t have to be a helicopter mom and worry about messes,” she says.
Credit: Photo: David A. Land; styling: Lindsey Ellis Beatty and Rachael Burrow
Wow With Wallpaper
you might almost always win big with a bold wallpaper in a small room.
A striking wallpaper can make it the star of the house.
Try one with a large-scale, repeating motif and layer it with contrasting accents.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
Interior designerAllison Elebashdecorated the den in thisSullivan’s Island homewith a deep custom sectional and brightly colored pillows.
Bunk Up
Love hosting a crowd?
Credit: Julia Lynn; Styling: Dakota Willimon
Credit: Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
Credit: Photo: David Tsay; Styling By Liz Strong
