There is nothing quite like the sight, smell and sound of the sea to make you feel calm and rested. It’s no surprise therefore that coastal inspired schemes are a timeless and popular choice, even for interiors miles from any actual sea.
I admit that I merrily fell into the “coastal grandma” Pinterest rabbit-hole a few years ago, a term coined on TikTok by Lex Nicoleta. Think immaculate linen drapery, ticking stripe upholstery, white marble kitchen surfaces, antique brass fitting, fresh flowers and Diane Keaton in a cream polo neck.
However, I have also seen more than my fair share of interpretations that cross the line into pastiche and cliche – more channeling a post-war British seaside resort in January than a peaceful pacific beach side retreat.
So, inspired my recent research for a client who is undertaking a large renovation on the Dorset coast, here are my thoughts on how to stay the right side of the line and create a calming and classic coastal inspired oasis that a rich divorcee in a Nancy Meyers film would be proud to drink chardonnay in.
Let’s start with colour. As a starting point, don’t rush to add any. The best coastal schemes have a strong neutral white as their anchor (pardon the pun). However, don’t be afraid to add colour in measured ways. As someone lucky enough to live by the sea, one of things that never ceases to surprise me is how different it looks every day due to the light, the season and weather. The colour palette of the sea, let alone the coast, is vast. So draw your inspiration from that breadth – think about accents of cool greys, warm greens, pebble creams and browns as well the more obvious blues and aquas.
Given you are creating a nature inspired interior make sure to incorporate lots of natural materials and textures. If you have a larger budget then think about wooden or natural stone flooring, linen sofas, adding in some beams and/or potentially some wall effects such as panelling. If you’re on a smaller budget then you may well be able to update your current scheme with linens cushions, a jute rug or a rattan lampshade.
Vintage pieces work wonderfully in a coastal scheme, adding character and a sense of timelessness. A preloved, slightly battered, vintage wooden chest of drawers will look expertly curated when set against a natural background and styled correctly. Vintage lighting is another way to add a nautical and memorable statement. Trinity Marine, a family owned business local to me in south Devon is the world largest trader of marine antiques with a vast collection of salvaged nautical lighting as well as some quirky pieces of furniture and decoration.
I’m a strong believer in engaging all your senses when creating an interior. We’ve covered sight and touch above but I would also encourage you to think about smell. There are lots of lovely sea inspired scents available in diffuser and candle form on both ends of the high street which will also add warmth and sophistication to your interior.
Finally, the phrase “everything in moderation” is key when styling a coastal interior. Keep neutrals at the forefront and think as much about editing out as you do adding in. You don’t need to pile in nautical themed ornaments or artwork. Let the scheme quietly whisper its inspiration, not shout it. Now pour yourself a chilled crisp glass of white, light a candle and settle in.
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