Coastal cottage home decor is a style that evokes the feeling of being by the sea, with a casual, airy, and relaxed atmosphere. This decor style is all about bringing the colors, textures, and elements of the ocean and beach into your home.
If you’re curious how to blend the seaside coastal aesthetic and the charm of relaxed cottage homes in your interior design, this post will enlighten you.
Where to Find Coastal Cottage Homes
Some of the most popular locations to find cute coastal cottage-style homes in the United States include the New England region, with areas like Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts, as well as Kennebunkport, Maine, and coastal Connecticut.
In the Southeast, coastal South Carolina towns like Hilton Head and Kiawah Island, coastal Florida communities such as Seaside and Rosemary Beach, and coastal Georgia locations like Tybee Island and St. Simons Island, all offer a variety of quaint cottage-style homes.
The Mid-Atlantic region, including coastal Delaware towns like Rehoboth Beach and Lewes, as well as coastal Maryland areas such as Ocean City and St. Michaels, also feature many picturesque coastal cottages.
Moving to the Pacific Northwest, Cannon Beach and Seaside in Oregon, and Port Townsend and Whidbey Island in Washington, are known for their charming coastal cottages.
Finally, on the West Coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Mendocino, La Jolla, and Cambria in California are home to beautiful cottage-style residences that reflect the local architectural styles and coastal influences.
Coastal Cottage Interior Design Tips
Here are some key aspects of coastal cottage home decor from an interior design point of view:
Color Palette: Coastal cottage decor typically uses a light and airy color palette inspired by the sea and sky. This includes shades of white, beige, soft blues, aquas, and sandy tones. These colors create a serene and calming environment.
Natural Materials: Incorporate natural materials such as wood, rattan, and wicker in furniture and decor pieces. Reclaimed wood is a popular choice for coastal-style furniture as it adds a rustic touch.
Textures: Layering different textures adds depth and interest to the decor. Use natural fibers like jute, sisal, and cotton in rugs, curtains, and cushions. Textured walls or whitewashed wood paneling can also enhance the coastal feel.
Furniture: Opt for furniture with a relaxed and comfortable look. Slipcovered sofas and chairs in light, natural fabrics like linen or cotton add to the casual vibe. Vintage or distressed furniture pieces can provide character.
Nautical Accents: Add subtle nautical accents such as seashells, starfish, and driftwood decor items. You can also include nautical-inspired artwork, like paintings of seascapes or boats.
Light and Airy: Maximize natural light with sheer or light-filtering window treatments. Open up the space with large windows or glass doors to create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition.
Patterns: Use patterns sparingly to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. Classic stripes, particularly in blue and white, are a popular choice for coastal decor.
Accessories: Add coastal-themed accessories like glass jars filled with sand and shells, beach stones, and nautical lanterns. These small touches bring the beachy vibe into your space.
Plants: Incorporate greenery with coastal-appropriate plants like ferns, palms, and succulents. This brings a natural touch and freshness to the room.
Art and Decor: Choose artwork that reflects the coastal theme, such as beach scenes, marine life, or nautical motifs. Use decorative items like rope mirrors, anchors, and ship wheels to enhance the coastal feel.
Coastal cottage home decor aims to create a comfortable and welcoming environment that feels like a retreat by the sea.
