If there’s one thing you should know about us, it’s that we never tire of that airy coastal vibe sweeping our décor. (What can we say… we’re suckers for the sand and shore.) But when it comes to our interiors, we prefer the interpretation to be a little less literal. While that effortless “coastal vibe” is well within reach no matter where you live, when it comes to execution it can be easier said than done.
Luckily, our resident design expert Kate Lester is back on the blog with us today to show us how it’s done, and we’ll let you in on a little secret… there will be no potted sand or seashells in bowls in sight! Keep scrolling to see what we mean, and read Kate’s expert tips on how to get coastal with your décor, sans kitschy details and cheesy accessories. Take it away, Kate!
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_Photo by Lauren Pressey
The end of summer has us all yearning for weekends in the Hamptons or one last quick getaway to our fave coastal retreat. If you are already suffering from end of summer sadness, it’s easy to integrate a little of that coastal vibe into your interiors, without making you seasick via a literal beach theme. So ditch the seafoam, skip the coral prints, and follow along for a little tutorial on how to get coastal… without the kitsch.
Photo by Amy Bartlam
1. Crisp Whites and Sea Blue
When we are creating spaces inspired by the coast, I always try to bring the outside in. Create a color palette infused with natural, coastal coloring. Bright whites like you would find on the exterior of a sailboat, watery sea blues, and deep navy are always in play in this type of scheme as well. A muted green or driftwood gray also helps break up the scheme from feeling too nautical or themey.
#bringtheoutsidein
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**Photo by Amy Bartlam
2. Natural, Textural Fibers
In my book, coastal decor isn’t truly complete unless there is something to ground it. Ever notice how so many coastal homes feel washed out and rustic? Shabby chic is just not my jam. I try to avoid this by adding in natural and textural elements in all of our coastal spaces. Repeat after me: Rope, Abaca, Rattan, Seagrass, Jute. Just keep saying this until you have left your local World Market or Pottery Barn, baskets and area rugs in hand. Trust me, this is the best way to add a punch of texture and a super simple way to anchor the concept and prevent it from feeling like your great-aunt’s 1970’s beach cottage in Maine.
#loveherbutnotherdecor
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**Photo by Amy Bartlam
3. Abstract Art or Contemporary Photography
(*Ahem* Gray Malin!) Please, please, please, no cheesy sayings printed on driftwood or coral prints. I have seen enough of these to last like three lifetimes. If you are lucky enough to reside by the coast, trust me, people know. They drove there, had to find a place to park, and are jealous of your proximity to bliss. You don’t have to remind them with a bunch of signs and poorly framed prints of red coral studies—they get it.
Instead, try to infuse art and photography that is inspired by your personal experinces. Maybe an aerial of where you went on your honeymoon in Italy or Australia (hello, Gray has like a million GORGEOUS options) or bring in a piece of original art or photography from a local artist. I love to infuse painted abstracts that are coastal feeling, but not too literal. Pencil sketches and black and white photography are also on point. Just skip the photos of the pier that everyone else on your block has—you can do better than that, I promise.
#nomorepierpylons
Photo by Amy Bartlam
4. Woodwork Details Like Shiplap Paneling
If you have been reading my blog posts for Gray then you know my slogan is #moreismore. This could not be more true than when it comes to adding millwork details. Shiplap and wood paneling are the stuff nautical dreams are made of, and they are a great way to add dimension and depth to your design while keeping it crisp and classic. I am a huge fan of shiplap pretty much everywhere, but some of my favorite places are on fireplaces, walls, and ceilings. Get a carpenter, buy some wood, and paint it white. It’s easy, and every time you add more shiplap a mermaid angel gets her wings.
#doitforthemermaids
Photo by Lauren Pressey
5. Skip the Literal and Get Creative
Shells are great. I love them, especially the ones that you can pick up and hear the ocean. (Is that really a thing?) But let’s be honest, filling vases with shells will never get you that Architectural Digest cover, or even a bunch of insta likes for that matter. Let’s get a little more creative. If you are dead set on bringing in shells, think big. Like really big. Oversized clam shells or coral are a great way to create drama and a focal point, and are much more impactful than a few sand dollars in a bowl.
Seaglass is often underused, so I love bringing in seaglass beads to hang around lamps or drape over books on a coffee table. Fish floats are another one of my secret weapons. Go on Etsy and buy them. The mini ones are adorable—fill a bowl with those instead. They are interesting and a great conversation piece. You can also decorate with hats. Yes, hats. Like straw hats. I am serious, it’s super chic. Lastly, please bring in some greenery. Air plants or succulents for those of you (like me) who can’t be trusted, or ferns and fiddle leaf fig trees for those of you who are brave and prefer plants with an attitude.
#nomoreshellsinvases
The moral to this opinionated and somewhat bossy tutorial is that vintage, found, or unique pieces are always best. Make your space feel like a chic, coastal retreat, not the beach aisle at the local Homegoods. Take time to search for pieces that speak to you and remind you of your coastal experiences, bring in texture, and have some fun. When in doubt, ask yourself, what would Kate do? The answer is always shiplap and straw hats. Happy decorating!
Need we say more? From where we stand, this guide to pulling off coastal décor in a chic, effortless way is as good as it gets! Thanks again to Kate for bringing such insightful tips to the table, and giving us major décor envy…
Check out more of her work by following @klinteriors on Instagram or heading to her website here.
Xx Team GM