Coastal Style , also known as Style Bord de Mer in French, is an interior design aesthetic that evokes the feeling of being by the sea. It integrates elements reminiscent of ocean and beach environments into home decor. Common sources of inspiration for this style come from coastal regions, such as the Western coast of France, the Hamptons, and the Mediterranean.

The style is characterized by a color palette of blues, whites, and light neutrals, often incorporating natural materials like light wood, woven fibers (such as rattan, wicker, and jute), and linen. Walls may feature white paint or textured finishes like polished concrete, with occasional accents of blue. Flooring often utilizes light-colored wood or concrete, supplemented by natural fiber rugs. Ceilings may display wooden beams painted white or in natural wood tones.

Furniture in Coastal Style typically includes light-colored wood pieces, sometimes with a driftwood-like finish, and white or blue upholstery. Woven natural fibers are common in seating and decorative items. Windows may be dressed with sheer white curtains, and fabrics often feature stripes or nautical patterns. Wood is a prevalent material, used for furniture and flooring, while metal is used sparingly for accents.

Retailers such as Maisons du Monde, Kave Home, Decoclico, Casa, and La Redoute offer collections featuring Coastal Style furniture and decor. These collections include items for various rooms, such as living rooms with white wood media units and linen sofas, dining rooms with round wood tables and rattan chairs, and bedrooms with light wood furniture and blue or white linens. Bathroom decor may include rustic vanities and woven storage baskets.

Coastal interior design, inspired by the seashore, emerged in the early 20th century as affluent Americans began building beach homes in coastal areas like the Hamptons. These residences prioritized comfort and a connection to the natural surroundings. The style draws from the colors and textures of the coast, incorporating hues of blues, greens, beiges, and whites, alongside natural materials such as wood, wicker, rattan, linen, and cotton. Nautical elements like shells, driftwood, and rope are often integrated.

The design emphasizes a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, favoring casual furnishings and soft, natural lighting. Various interpretations of coastal style exist, including Modern Coastal, Mediterranean Coastal, Tropical Coastal, and Hamptons style, each with distinct color palettes and material choices.

Historically, nautical decor has been inspired by the romance and symbolism of the maritime world. Elements such as ship wheels, anchors, and lighthouses evoke seafaring history and adventure. This style uses materials like rope, canvas, and metal, and colors mirroring the sea and sky.

Interior design within the Coastal Style extends to various settings, from private residences to commercial spaces like hotels and yachts. The aesthetic aims to replicate a serene, seaside environment through specific color and material choices. Predominantly, spaces feature palettes drawn from coastal landscapes: blues, whites, light grays, yellows, and oranges. White or blue often establishes the foundational color, with additional shades introduced through textiles and decorative items.

Accessory selection reinforces the maritime theme. Seashells, starfish, fishing nets, and nautical symbols such as anchors and lifebuoys are standard. Glass containers filled with natural beach elements or white stones serve as centerpieces, while floral arrangements with hardy plants like lavender and rosemary introduce natural fragrances.

Material usage emphasizes natural textures. Wood, rattan, rope, and natural fabrics—particularly linen and cotton—are prevalent. Wood's versatility allows for its application in furniture construction, flooring, and wall paneling, aiming to evoke the structural elements of coastal dwellings or ship interiors.

Furniture within this style ranges from rustic to refined. Vintage or shabby chic pieces, including weathered tables and woven baskets, are paired with contemporary items like metal or ceramic lamps. Waterfront properties often integrate architectural views with interior design, using sheer curtains to frame seascapes and incorporating woven furniture to merge indoor and outdoor spaces. Wall decorations featuring marine life or driftwood art are common alternatives for those removed from coastal environments.

Dining areas within Coastal Style homes feature themed tableware, readily available during summer and early autumn. The overall decor adapts to personal taste, blending modern and vintage elements to customize the seaside atmosphere.

The Hamptons Style draws inspiration from the opulent residences found in the Hamptons on Long Island, a favored destination for affluent New Yorkers seeking respite. It aims to merge luxury with a laid-back, summery ambiance. Interiors are crafted to be expansive, luminous, and comfortable, showcasing premium natural materials and decor that creates a warm, relaxing atmosphere.

The Hamptons style features a color palette of light, airy tones, including white, beige, and soft grays, punctuated by accents of blues. Furniture selections consist of classic, timeless pieces that prioritize comfort, with large, plush sofas and armchairs being commonplace. Natural materials, such as wood, linen, and cotton, are favored. Flooring typically involves light-colored wood, such as white-washed or gray-stained oak, or parquet flooring. Decor is minimalist yet elegant , incorporating nautical-inspired accents. Mirrors and glass are utilized to enhance natural light.

Mediterranean Coastal design is inspired the aesthetics of European countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including Greece, Italy, and eastern Spain. This style emphasizes natural materials and colors found in the coastal environment. Key features include the use of lagoon-like colors, such as teal, deep blue, and mint green, reminiscent of the Greek islands. Warm tones, like ochre, orange, and terracotta, are also prevalent.

Material choices focus on natural elements, including various forms of wood, rope, and seashells. Interior plants, such as indoor palms and dried flowers, are common decorative elements. While unconventional, cacti are sometimes incorporated for their distinctive charm.

The design promotes indoor-outdoor living, maximizing natural light and views. Arched architectural features, such as windows and doorways, are frequently used. Natural materials like stone, wood, tile, ceramics, and textiles such as linen and cotton are favored. A neutral color palette with white walls and natural finishes is typical, complemented by colors that reflect the sea and sky.

Furniture often includes wrought iron, painted or carved wood, and natural stone. Textiles may feature embroidered fabrics, layered pillows, and rugs. Decorative objects include ceramics, bowls, baskets, and vases, often with a rustic or handcrafted appearance.

Modern Coastal interior design blends elements of relaxed beach house and California casual styles, incorporating aspects of Hamptons style. This approach emphasizes a light, minimal, and fresh aesthetic, drawing inspiration from natural colors and textures. The style favors a color scheme reflecting the ocean and sky, including crisp whites, deep blues, and neutral hues. Light woods, baskets, natural fiber rugs, woven light fixtures, and easy-care fabrics like cotton and linen are common features.

The design avoids overt beach themes, such as signs, rope accents, anchors, nautical motifs, and detailed sea life representations. A background of white walls and soft natural colors is typical, complemented by natural materials and textures. Furniture and decor selections focus on contemporary pieces and neutral color palettes.

Spaces designed in this style often feature open-concept layouts, maximizing natural light. Woven elements, glass, brass, and light woods are integrated into kitchens and living areas. Bedrooms incorporate neutral tones, layers of soft bedding, and natural elements. Dining rooms may feature modern coastal dining tables, woven chandeliers, and slipcovered chairs. Bathrooms use a mix of white and light wood cabinetry, brass accents, and natural materials. Entryways and outdoor spaces continue the theme with shiplap walls, natural fiber rugs, and comfortable, stylish furniture.