Decorating a beach house doesn’t mean filling it with seashells and anchors. The real charm lies in creating a space that feels breezy, relaxing, and naturally connected to the coast—without going overboard. Here’s how to nail the coastal vibe in every room with smart, stylish choices that are as functional as they are beautiful.
Living Room: Keep It Light & Relaxed
Start with white walls or light sandy paint. Add a slipcovered sofa—they’re perfect for beach life because they’re washable and casual. Look for models like IKEA’s EKTORP (from $499), or upgrade with linen-blend options on West Elm.
Pair with natural wood coffee tables (think weathered oak or teak), a jute rug underfoot ($80–$150 on Amazon), and some blue-and-white cushions to echo the sea. Built-in shelves? Great for displaying driftwood, old lanterns, or vintage sailing photos.
Pro tip: Use sheer curtains to let sunlight pour in—beach houses should always feel bright and open.
Bedroom: Soft, Coastal, and Cozy
A bedroom by the sea should feel like a retreat. Go for whitewashed wood furniture, navy-striped linens, and sisal rugs for a textured, grounded feel. A striped duvet set like the one from Brooklinen ($150) instantly adds nautical charm.
Use rattan bedside lamps and hang soft artwork—pastel ocean abstracts or simple botanical prints. Want to elevate the space? Add a statement piece like a black and white photography canva. This brings a chic contrast to lighter decor and creates a sophisticated focal point. You can buy a black and white photography canva online to give your beach house a touch of timeless elegance.
Kitchen: Natural, Practical, Airy
Stick with open shelves, sea glass-colored tiles, and light wood or rattan stools. The Baxton Studio Rattan Barstools (around $130 for two) work great with a white or pale blue island.
Use wicker baskets for storage and display local ceramics or glass bottles to add charm without clutter. Don’t forget a striped runner rug to add texture and catch sand from bare feet.
Bathroom: Spa-Like and Simple
Think white tiles, ocean blue accents, and natural textures. A teak bath mat ($40–$60) adds warmth, while a round mirror with a rope frame brings subtle nautical flair. Keep it minimal—this is your calming zone.
Outdoor Spaces: Durable Meets Comfy
Rattan furniture is perfect for patios or porches. Add weatherproof cushions (Sunbrella is a great option), a jute rug, and solar lanterns or string lights for soft evening ambiance.
For a rustic touch, use ship rope railings on stairs or decks—it’s a clever way to nod to the coast without being kitschy.
Colors & Textiles: Stick to the Basics
Build your palette from four essentials:
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White for walls and big furniture
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Blue (sky, navy, or teal) for accents
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Beige/Sand for warmth
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Pale pastels (mint, blush) as soft highlights
Textiles should be machine washable and made to handle sun, sand, and spills. Cotton-linen blends are ideal. Mix stripes, ikats, and florals in cushions and throws to add visual interest without breaking the vibe.
Decor & Accessories: Meaningful > Matchy
Skip the cliché shell art and go for accessories with soul. Hunt vintage stores or Etsy for:
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Brass ship lights
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Old oars or buoys
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Driftwood sculptures
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Black and white photography (again: timeless and classy)
Gallery walls featuring ocean-themed pieces in muted tones or monochrome give character without overwhelming the room.
Quick Buying Guide
| Item | Price Range | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Slipcovered sofa | $400–$1200 | IKEA, West Elm |
| Jute or seagrass rugs | $80–$200 | Amazon, Wayfair |
| Rattan stools and chairs | $100–$300 | Amazon, Article |
| Black & white wall canvas | $90–$300 | LuxuryArtCanvas.com |
| Navy striped bedding | $100–$180 | Brooklinen, Target |
Final Tips: Keep It Real
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Less is more: leave breathing room in every space.
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Go vintage: flea markets and online vintage shops are your best friends.
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Mix materials: wood, rattan, linen, and metal give depth.
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DIY wisely: rope shelves, shell wreaths, or painted driftwood bring personality without being overdone.
A coastal home should feel like a breath of salty air—clean, textured, and personal. Choose quality over quantity, skip the obvious, and lean into natural light and soothing tones.