Bringing the calm of the shore into your space has never been more popular. Whether you live by the water or miles away, this style creates a peaceful retreat. The blend of soft hues, natural textures, and light-filled spaces makes it timeless.
This year, designers are mixing classic nautical touches with modern simplicity. Think driftwood accents paired with crisp linens or woven rugs layered over sleek floors. The goal? A look that feels fresh yet effortlessly relaxed.
You don’t need ocean views to enjoy this vibe. Neutral palettes, organic materials, and airy layouts work anywhere. From subtle hints to full themes, there are nine distinct ways to embrace the aesthetic. Ready to transform your sanctuary? Let’s dive in.
1. Embrace Serene Blue and White Color Schemes
Nothing captures the essence of seaside living like a soothing blue and white color scheme. Industry surveys reveal that 78% of coastal designs feature blue as the cornerstone hue—proof of its timeless appeal. From Victoria Hagan’s Palm Beach bedroom mirroring ocean views to Janie Molster’s scalloped-detailed space, this duo evokes endless summer.
Classic coastal palettes inspired by the sea
Designer Cece Bowman’s bunk room demonstrates the magic of blue-green walls paired with crisp white bedding. The combo feels fresh yet grounded, like ocean meets sand. For drama, try Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue on an accent wall with Cloud Whites trim—a high-contrast take that still whispers relaxation.
How to layer blues for depth and contrast
Start with a powder blue base, then add navy throw pillows or a cerulean rug. The trick? Vary shades within the same color family. Even monochrome works, as seen in Source 2’s all-white lighthouse bedroom—a reminder that simplicity can channel coastal calm just as powerfully.
2. Layer Textures for a Cozy Coastal Vibe
Texture is the secret weapon for making any space feel inviting. In a seaside-inspired room, the right mix of fabrics and finishes creates depth while keeping things relaxed. Designers like Kelly Hurliman prove you don’t need bold colors—just thoughtful layering.
Mixing Linen, Rattan, and Jute
Follow the 60/30/10 ratio for balance: 60% smooth surfaces (walls, floors), 30% woven furniture like rattan chairs, and 10% nubby elements such as jute rugs. Matouk’s linen sheets paired with Boll & Branch’s cotton quilt add breathable luxury.
Textured Wallpaper and Woven Accents
Serena & Lily’s pebble-textured wallpaper adds subtle dimension to feature walls. For earthy charm, try Doniphan Moore’s limewashed walls with woven baskets or mirrors. These touches work in any bedroom, even far from the shore.
Texture Type
Role
Example
Smooth
Base layer
Painted walls, ceramic vases
Woven
Visual interest
Rattan headboards, seagrass baskets
Nubby
Grounding
Jute rugs, cable-knit throws
Pro tip: Wicker chairs or a rope-wrapped mirror instantly elevate the room. Keep the palette neutral to let textures shine.
3. Incorporate Nautical Stripes and Patterns
Stripes and nautical motifs bring effortless seaside charm to any space. Whether bold or subtle, these patterns evoke the rhythm of waves and maritime heritage. Designers like Ashley Gilbreath and Tom Scheerer prove they’re versatile enough for modern coastal bedroom aesthetics.
Timeless stripes for bedding and curtains
Stripes set the tone for your room’s vibe. Wide bands (3″ or more) feel relaxed, while narrow ones add polish. For a balanced look, try Society6’s navy-and-white curtains paired with neutral bedding—like Source 1’s bunk room with boat-themed art.
Subtle nautical motifs in throw pillows
Avoid theme-park vibes with refined touches. Anthropologie’s compass-print pillows or a zebra-striped bench (à la Ashley Gilbreath) nod to the coast without clichés. Tom Scheerer’s shipshape designs show how stripes on upholstery or rugs anchor the style.
Stripe Type
Mood
Best For
Wide (3″+)
Casual, breezy
Curtains, duvets
Narrow (1″–2″)
Tailored, crisp
Pillows, chair upholstery
Irregular (e.g., zebra)
Eclectic
Accent furniture
Pro tip: Layer stripes with solids to keep the decor from feeling busy. A striped throw over a neutral sofa or a pinstripe lampshade adds just enough maritime flair.
4. Opt for a Canopy Bed for Beachside Luxury
Transform your sleep space into a breezy retreat with a canopy bed that whispers coastal elegance. This timeless furniture piece adds height and drama while keeping the vibe relaxed—perfect for a coastal bedroom. Designers like Janie Molster prove its versatility, pairing crisp white frames with Schumacher’s yellow-and-white panels for a sunny, airy feel.
Lightweight fabrics for an airy feel
Choose breezy materials like linen or cotton voile for the canopy. Jean-Louis Deniot’s woven design, inspired by fishing nets, shows how texture can elevate simplicity. For DIYers, Pottery Barn’s linen canopy kits offer an easy upgrade.
Pairing with sheer curtains for breezy elegance
Layer Restoration Hardware’s flax-colored sheers for movement and softness. In humid climates, opt for mildew-resistant Sunbrella fabrics. Whether you prefer crown-mounted drapery or a four-poster frame, the right canopy balances aesthetic appeal with practicality.
5. Add Scalloped Edges for Whimsical Charm
Curved details bring a touch of seaside whimsy to your personal retreat. These organic elements soften hard lines, creating a space that feels both playful and polished. Designer Janie Molster’s scalloped bedding and furniture edges exemplify this style, offering what she calls a “quintessential coastal decor” look.
Furniture and bedding with scalloped details
Scale matters with scallops—opt for 2″ waves for subtlety or 4″ for bold statements. Anthropologie’s nightstands with brass hardware showcase how these curves add elegance. For a coordinated look, pair them with Serena & Lily’s shell-stitched quilts.
Softening hard lines with curved edges
Even simple updates make an impact. Try adding scalloped trim to an IKEA dresser for a custom touch. The key is balance: let curved bed frames or mirrors stand out against clean-lined furniture.
6. Choose Scenic Wallpaper for a Tropical Escape
Transform your walls into a serene coastal escape with scenic wallpaper that transports you to the shore. Whether you crave ocean vistas or palm-fringed hideaways, these designs offer instant inspiration and a refreshing vibe.
Murals of ocean views or palm fronds
Breegan Jane’s Indian Ocean mural wallpaper turns a feature wall into a window to the sea. For a subtler touch, Milton & King’s removable palm frond prints add texture without commitment. Peel-and-stick options thrive in humid climates, unlike traditional pasted paper.
Balancing bold prints with neutral furniture
Pair Schumacher’s vibrant palm patterns with whitewashed dressers or linen bedding to avoid overwhelm. Carlos Mota’s tropical screen walls, like those in Rafferty’s Palm Beach retreat, prove botanical prints shine when grounded by a neutral palette.
7. Essential Coastal Bedroom Decor Trends to Embrace
Natural textures and organic shapes bring the beach to your space effortlessly. From driftwood mirrors to handwoven baskets, these elements add warmth without overwhelming the room. Designers like Rinfret Ltd. prove even small touches—like a seashell-canopied bed—make a big impact.
Driftwood accents and seashell collections
West Elm’s driftwood mirror makes a stunning focal point above beds. For seashells, boil them in vinegar-water to remove organic residue before displaying. Ken Fulk’s nautical rope doorstop shows how functional pieces can double as art.
Curate shells: Group 3–5 in a glass cloche or scatter them on a tray.
Mix sizes: Pair large conch shells with delicate sand dollars.
Avoid clutter: Stick to a few meaningful pieces per surface.
Wicker and rattan furniture for organic warmth
Target’s Project 62 rattan dressers (under $500) add texture without breaking the budget. Layer with linen bedding for contrast. These materials thrive in humid climates, making them ideal for a relaxed, airy vibe.
Pro tip: Anchor a rattan chair with a jute rug to balance the furniture. Keep walls neutral to let the natural grain shine.
8. Design with Earthy Tones and Natural Materials
Earth-inspired hues create an instant connection to nature in your personal space. Sandy beiges, warm woods, and muted greens evoke the organic beauty of shorelines and forests. These tones work harmoniously to craft a serene, grounded aesthetic.
Sandy Beiges and Warm Woods
Dominique DeLaney’s driftwood-like shiplap proves natural textures add depth. Pair CB2’s reclaimed teak bed frames with linen bedding for contrast. Studio Schicketanz’s Big Sur design uses sunset hues to blur indoor-outdoor lines.
Limewashed Walls for Rustic Texture
Limewash paint creates a mottled finish that hides imperfections. Portola Paints’ Roman Clay in “Dune” offers an authentic, weathered look. Unlike flat paint, its subtle variation mimics aged plaster—perfect for a relaxed vibe.
Limewash benefits: Breathable, eco-friendly, and adds depth.
Pairings: Try with jute rugs or woven light fixtures.
Pro tip: Apply in thin layers for a soft, layered effect.
Source 2’s New Zealand retreat showcases textured monochrome—proof that earthy walls need no bold colors to impress. Keep furniture simple to let nature’s palette shine.
9. Brighten Your Space with Yellows and Sunshine Hues
Sunny yellows bring instant cheer to any space, creating a welcoming vibe. This palette isn’t just visually uplifting—studies show it boosts serotonin by 23%. Whether through artwork or bedding, a dash of gold or mustard adds energy without overwhelming.
Pops of yellow in artwork and bedding
McGee & Co.’s mustard velvet pillows against a white duvet strike the perfect balance. For wall art, Framebridge’s custom yellow matting makes ocean prints pop. Pickart/Polsby’s palm frond wallpaper with subtle yellow accents proves even small touches elevate the style.
Pairing with whites for a fresh look
White walls and furniture let yellow shine. Try a 60/40 ratio: 60% neutrals, 40% mixed colors (with yellow at 15% max). Serena & Lily’s citrine throw blankets layered over ivory chairs show how restraint creates harmony.
Yellow Shade
Best Pairing
Room Impact
Lemon
Crisp whites
Energetic
Mustard
Natural wood
Warmth
Gold
Navy blues
Sophisticated
Pro tip: Use yellow in east-facing rooms to amplify morning light. Keep patterns minimal—let the hue itself be the star.
10. Play with Tropical Colors for Vibrant Energy
Vibrant tropical hues can instantly energize your space with a lively, beach-ready vibe. Think turquoise waves, coral sunsets, and palm-green fronds—these shades bring warmth and joy to any room. The key is balancing bold color with neutral bases for a polished look.
Turquoise, coral, and palm-green accents
Alison Pickart’s blue-green hotel aesthetic proves tropical palettes feel luxurious, not kitschy. For a similar effect, try Benjamin Moore’s “Tropical Splash” on a dresser or accent wall. Pair it with Perennials’ fade-resistant coral fabric for throw pillows—indoors or out.
Schuyler Samperton’s blue-on-blue design in Santa Barbara shows monochrome works too. Layer cerulean bedding with navy artwork for depth. Add palm-green via potted plants or a statement rug to tie the look together.
Balancing bold colors with neutral bases
Follow the 60-30-10 rule: 60% neutrals (walls, floors), 30% main color (turquoise sofa), and 10% accent (coral trays). Source 1’s orange-teal boho mix demonstrates how vibrant patterns pop against whitewashed furniture.
Anchor brights: Use jute rugs or linen curtains to ground the space.
Test first: Paint swatches in different lights before committing.
Edit thoughtfully: One bold wall or artwork often suffices.
Pro tip: Limewashed walls or rattan chairs add organic texture, letting tropical hues shine without overwhelming. Keep the rest of your decor simple to let the beach-inspired palette take center stage.
11. Install Shiplap for Rustic Coastal Appeal
Shiplap instantly adds character and warmth to any space, creating that perfect beach cottage aesthetic. Whether you paint it crisp white or leave it natural, this versatile material brings texture and charm to your walls or ceiling.
Painted white shiplap for a beach cottage feel
White shiplap reflects light, making rooms feel airy and bright. Dominique DeLaney’s driftwood-inspired design proves how this look enhances coastal vibes. For a clean finish, use Lowe’s SmartCore planks with their easy locking system.
MDF is budget-friendly but less resistant to humidity. Real pine offers durability and authenticity. Choose based on your home’s needs and climate.
Weathered wood finishes for authenticity
Tom Scheerer’s shipshape guest room showcases the beauty of natural, weathered wood. Limewashing or light distressing adds rustic charm without looking overly polished. This approach works well in both modern and traditional spaces.
Installation Style
Visual Effect
Best For
Horizontal
Widens small rooms
Living areas, bedrooms
Vertical
Heightens ceilings
Bathrooms, entryways
Diagonal
Adds dynamic interest
Accent walls
According to Houzz’s 2023 report, ceiling shiplap is gaining popularity. It adds dimension while keeping walls clean. Pair with simple furniture to let the texture shine.
Pro tip: Use shiplap on one focal wall to avoid overwhelming the space. Combine with woven baskets or linen curtains for a relaxed, coastal-inspired look.
12. Style with Coastal-Inspired Wall Art
Art transforms blank walls into windows of coastal charm. Whether you prefer serene seascapes or bold maritime motifs, the right pieces elevate your space. From Ashley Gilbreath’s nautical sketches to Ken Fulk’s rope-wrapped mirrors, wall art ties your design together.
Ocean landscapes and abstract wave prints
Minted’s customizable prints let you curate gallery walls with depth. Pair abstract waves (like Source 1’s navy bunk room sketch) with neutral frames for contrast. For DIY flair, frame sailcloth fragments marked with coordinates—a nod to sailor’s maps.
Framed vintage maps or sailor knots
Etsy’s UV-protected Nantucket charts add nostalgic appeal. Layer them with rope art or a ship’s wheel mirror for texture. Ken Fulk’s approach proves even functional knots—like a macramé wall hanging—double as decor.
Mix mediums: Combine canvas prints with woven baskets for dimension.
Scale matters: Oversize wave art anchors large walls; small clusters suit cozy nooks.
Protect colors: Use anti-fade glass for sunlit bedroom displays.
Pro tip: Source 2’s crane wallpaper transitions seamlessly to neutral bedding. Let one statement piece—like a driftwood-framed mirror—steal the spotlight.
13. Create a Boho Coastal Retreat
Boho style meets coastal charm in a fusion of free-spirited creativity and relaxed elegance. Claire Thomas’ teal-and-orange sanctuary proves how global elements can enhance beachy vibes without overwhelming them. The secret lies in balancing texture-rich layers with airy simplicity.
Macramé hangings and layered textiles
Start with a jute rug as your foundation, then add a Turkish kilim for color. Top with a sheepskin throw for instant coziness. The Citizenry’s handwoven Moroccan pillows bring artisanal flair to your bedroom while maintaining that undone-chic aesthetic.
Sarah Vaile’s organic patterns demonstrate how to mix prints successfully. Keep one dominant design (like ikat) and complement it with smaller-scale motifs. Hang a macramé wall piece above your rattan headboard for effortless boho texture.
Mixing global patterns with beachy vibes
Greenery softens the look while thriving in humid climates. Snake plants or air plants add life without demanding much care. Cluster them in woven baskets or terracotta pots for earthy appeal.
Source 3’s style guide suggests pairing rattan furniture with linen textiles for contrast. The result? A space that feels collected over time yet perfectly put together. Remember: the best boho-coastal blends look effortless, not overdesigned.
14. Go Minimalist with Neutral Coastal Design
Less is more when crafting a serene retreat with neutral tones. Celia Muñoz’s Barbados retreat and Jenni Kayne’s New Zealand bedroom prove how monochrome palettes create timeless elegance. By focusing on subtle contrasts, you let textures and light shape the space.
Monochrome whites and creams
Stick to a tight neutral range—think Restoration Hardware’s “Oyster” linen bedding with eggshell walls. Source 3’s mulberry silk duvets add quiet luxury. For depth, use satin trim against matte finishes.
Focusing on texture over color
Layer smooth ceramics with nubby wool throws for tactile interest. Jenni Kayne’s sparse design uses rattan chairs against limewashed walls. The result? A room that feels curated, not cluttered.
Paint Sheen
Best Use
Effect
Eggshell
Walls
Soft, low-reflectivity
Satin
Trim/doors
Subtle contrast
Matte
Ceilings
Expansive feel
Pair textures: Belgian flax linens with rough-hewn wood nightstands.
Edit boldly: One statement piece (e.g., a driftwood mirror) per zone.
Play with light: Sheer curtains amplify the airy vibe.
15. Add Vintage Touches for Coastal Grandma Style
The ‘coastal grandma’ trend celebrates heritage and comfort in equal measure. Think antique furniture paired with sun-bleached linens—a look that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Designers like Ken Fulk and Ashley Gilbreath prove how heirlooms elevate a space with soul.
Antique Furniture and Floral Chintz
Ken Fulk’s Marjorie Post bed anchors rooms with timeless elegance. For a similar vibe, hunt for 1940s nautical dressers on Chairish. Pair them with floral chintz curtains or pillows—Ashley Gilbreath’s traditional bedroom shows how patterns soften rustic woods.
Wicker Baskets and Heirloom Quilts
Repurpose faded quilts by dyeing them ocean-blue with Rit DyeMore. Wicker baskets add texture while storing throws or seashell collections. Mix eras confidently: a 1920s nightstand beside a modern LED lamp keeps the style dynamic.
Source vintage: Verified platforms like Etsy or local flea markets.
Layer textures: Combine quilts with rattan headboards for depth.
Edit thoughtfully: One statement antique per zone avoids clutter.
This trend isn’t about perfection—it’s about crafting a home that tells your story. Let cracks in porcelain or frayed quilt edges add character.
Conclusion: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Bedroom
Your perfect escape balances comfort, texture, and effortless charm. Start with textured layers like linen and rattan, or add whimsy with scalloped edges. Scenic wallpaper or a canopy bed can become your room’s focal point.
Mix styles freely—pair boho macramé with minimalist neutrals for a personalized design. Near the shore? Opt for humidity-resistant materials like teak or Sunbrella fabrics.
Find inspiration in small changes: a driftwood mirror or earthy tones set the tone. For curated ideas, explore trusted buying guides to refine your home’s look.
Remember—great spaces evolve. Begin with one change and let the rest flow naturally.
Elite House Designs
Amy White is the creative force behind Elite House Designs, where modern floor plans meet timeless style. With a lifelong passion for architecture, cozy spaces, and statement lighting, Amy turned her fascination for beautiful homes into a thriving online resource.
When she’s not curating dream house plans or pinning the latest design trends, Amy can usually be found wandering both historic and new neighborhoods for inspiration, sketchbook in hand. She believes everyone deserves a home that feels both elegant and deeply personal—and loves helping readers bring that vision to life, one plan (and pin) at a time.