Many thanks to Evelyn Long for her summer article, Sail Into Serenity – Coastal Decor to Bring the Sea to You. Be sure to read Evelyn’s bio at the bottom.
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Summer is the perfect time to leave your cares behind while you frolic in the sand and surf. Spending the day at the beach is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature while replacing everyday stress with sunshine, sandy shores and fresh air. Many people return from the seaside feeling refreshed and renewed. However, you can enjoy some of those benefits without leaving home by making strategic coastal decor choices that bring the best of the beach to your abode.
1. Choose Beachy Colors
Image Source: Casart Faux Panels Light Blue White Molding
Start exploring your interior decorating possibilities by selecting products in colors that immediately remind you of the beach. Go with the soothing blues, sandy tans and pastel hues often featured on oceanfront properties.
This pillow’s design is ideal because its squares help you imagine looking out a window to admire the crashing waves. The white contrast against the light blue hue also reminds people of the foamy surf that laps at their ankles as they walk along the shore.
As you select colors to build the theme, choose those associated with the ocean during different seasons, weather and times of day. For example, shades of gray match the sky during stormy days, while light greens let you take inspiration from the seagrass that often grows along beachside paths.
2. Turn Shell Searching Into Home Decor
People of all ages love collecting shells that wash up on the shore. This activity also encourages mindfulness by helping you see the environmental beauty you’d otherwise miss. Covering surfaces in your home with seashells is an emerging multisensory trend that instantly gives a beachy feel.
Instead of stashing shells away in a drawer after your beach trip, intentionally look for shapes or colors that create a cohesive aesthetic. Then, turn those treasures into meaningful home [or personalized office] decor — like framing your favorite beach day snapshots and gluing your handpicked finds to the frames.
Putting shells, sand and saltwater into a transparent bottle with a cork stopper is an easy way to bring a bit of the beach home with you. When a visitor compliments you on this decorative item and asks where you bought it, they’ll probably be surprised and inspired to learn the piece was a DIY project.
3. Set the Mood with Beach Signs
Beaches often have signs directing people to restrooms, lifeguard stands or access points. Personalize similar signs in your home by adding words, locations or other features. They can help guests find the bathroom, transition between two areas or know which door to use when they arrive.
Though many sellers offer mass-produced options, you may prefer custom pieces featuring your favorite textures, colors, memorable quotes and other eye-catching details. Those cost a bit more, but they’re worthwhile if you want something unique that helps you fondly recall the things, people and places that matter most.
4. Add Murals for an Immersive Effect
Image Source: Casart Shells Natural Coral Design
People love going to the beach because it offers a refreshing break from their routines — a chance to step into a new environment that can be simultaneously calming and exciting. Beach-themed murals, such as this beautiful shell-themed design, can transform a room by creating a memorable scene that encourages people to daydream. Consider this approach if you want a more seamless look than a few framed art pieces can provide. Alternatively, use the mural to transition between rooms, as the example in the picture does.
Brainstorm several things that make you think of time at the beach. A thoughtfully designed mural can feature a sunset, sailboats, dolphins and sandcastles, building a highly detailed, unforgettable indoor scene. Your efforts could also include the stylish trend of highlighting the ceiling as an interior design element rather than something people rarely notice. Use it as a canvas or add a vibrant coat of paint to create a beachy vibe.
5. Use Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood furniture is a natural fit for coastal décor. Its sun-bleached, weathered finish mirrors the effortless beauty of materials found near the sea. Whether you opt for a statement piece like a coffee table or a few subtle accents, giving wood a second life adds character while keeping reusable materials out of landfills.
This approach also reflects the coastal mindset — practical, resilient and resourceful. Like seaside dwellers who favor wind and moisture-resistant materials, reclaimed wood offers proven durability, often lasting long enough to become an heirloom.
Some furniture makers even take it a step further by crafting products from old fishing boats. The result is one-of-a-kind conversation pieces that blend charm, eco-consciousness and storytelling.
6. Decorate to Encourage Relaxation
The beach lets you unwind and leave your worries behind — and your home can do the same if you add carefully chosen touches. Cozy furniture and inviting accessories set the tone for effortless relaxation.
Choose reclining chairs or pair standard ones with ottomans to encourage lounging. Built-in cupholders are a bonus, keeping favorite beverages close at hand. Add softness and style with well-placed rugs — especially appreciated by barefoot guests crossing hard floors.
Stock up on throws and pillows to keep things warm and comfortable, and opt for furniture with hidden storage to keep those extras neatly tucked away yet easily accessible when you need them.
Bring the Beach Home
These themed ideas prove that thoughtfully selected décor can transport you back to the beach anytime. In addition to these tips, consider gradually expanding your theme by picking up a few souvenirs during your coastal vacations. Whether they’re magnets, figurines or mugs, these items can help you remember the good times while anticipating those to come.
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Additional posts & resources:
- Bringing in the Beach Year Round
- Beach Time with Back to School Bags
- 3 Ways to Bring the Beach Back Home
- The Origin of Sea Life Removable Wallpaper Designs
- Celebrating Summer with American Style All Year Long
- How Does Interior Design Affect Your Mental Health
Many thanks to Evelyn for her insightful article on ways to make your home your own personal space.
About the author:
Evelyn Long is an interior design writer passionate about helping homeowners bring life and personality to their spaces.
She is the Editor-in-Chief of Renovated, where she provides interior design tips and guides.
She also contributes to sites like DecorMatters and National Association of Realtors.
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