Effortless Coastal Design

It’s 2026, the time to move from themed interiors to conceptual based spaces. Behind every known design style is the obvious, in-your-face way of designing. But past the signage and obvious objects, is a way to create a deeper connection to the root of the style. By abstracting the idea and utilizing the underlying aesthetic, a more cohesive space is produced, crafted with finesse.  

Below are a few ways to integrate a coastal setting without filling a room with seashells and ropes. This early twentieth century design style, originating on the northeast coast of America, is rich in history and design details. So, how to best integrate it?

WRJ Design

Let natural materials shine

Think furniture and finishes made of jute, rattan, and wood. Beyond typical applications, these materials can find their way into unexpected places like cabinet insets or ceiling accents. Use them in bespoke ways.

Firefinish Interiors

Bring in the outdoors

Take advantage of the nature beyond the windows but choose window treatments that are light filtering and can easily disappear into the design when opened. Coastal design relies heavily on connecting the indoor and outdoor environment, and this can be accomplished by highlighting the windows in a space. 

Audrey Scheck Interiors

Flip the color palette

Normally, crisp whites and soft beige's dominate the larger portion of coastal spaces, with darker accents. Flip that with a deep navy for the walls instead.

Bryan O'Sullivan Studio

Think outside the box

Nature, specifically the coast, is filled with movement. Abstract this concept and bring it inside with curves and rooms that flow effortlessly. The overall feeling should be breezy and easygoing.

Jaimee Rose Interiros

Treasure hunt for antiques

Tap into the history of it all. Antique furniture provides a certain level of detail that new furniture does not. The deep wood tones coupled with skilled craftsmanship makes for excellent coastal aesthetic furniture and decor.

Michelle Gersen Interiors

Finishes as fluid as the ocean

The ocean is a shiny vast being. Use that look and go for glazed and glossy. Think zellige backsplashes or mosaic art installations.

Ken Fulk

Window Panes for Unique Fenestration

Play with incoming sunlight by outfitting windows with interesting window panes. Options extend far beyond the traditional sized grid, and include patterns of different shapes and sizes thus allowing for a playful sun moment.

Laura Hodges Studio

Soft & Breathable Textures

Carry the coastal breeze into the textures found in a space. Natural materials work best here, like linen and cotton. An easy way to incorporate this is with furniture slipcovers: effortless look and functionality, built into one. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born and raised in New York, Shana Beck is an interior designer and writer with a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. Her work focuses on blending design principles with insightful commentary, offering a fresh perspective on trends and innovations in the field. With a passion for writing and a deep understanding of aesthetics, she aims to make complex ideas accessible and engaging, bringing a fun and cool approach to professional content. You can reach her at 845.825.1537 or shanabeck7@yahoo.com