11 modern coastal decorating ideas

'Start by introducing elegant hints of blue that will keep you on theme without being tacky,' advises Francesca. 'For example, combine a blue vase with a matching throw and accent chair. Next, tone things down with serene creams and neutrals for your cushions and walls – you can even upcycle old furniture with a fresh lick of white or cream paint for a rustic twist.

'Finally, don't overlook natural materials from the nautical nature of jute and rope baskets to weathered wood furniture and limewash floors.'

Image: Porthallow Corner Sofa Set, Garden Trading

Instead of sticking to decor that looks unmistakably coastal, consider how you can weave in elements of the style without being too brash. For example, a wallpaper inspired by swirling waves can add a textural look to your interior whilst giving a subtle nod to the coast.

Image: Seascape Wallpaper, Abigail Edwards

Coastal interiors have a long-standing association with rustic cottages and classic design choices. However, there's nothing to say you can't use the coast to inspire a more modern and eclectic interior. Use the colours associated with coastal interiors as a base and then get creative with pattern and design.

'A trend many of us are continuing to see on TikTok, "coastal grandmother" is all about creating a space that feels inviting for family and friends,' says Matilda Martin, trend specialist at Lick. 'If you’re looking for a home refresh that’ll welcome an elegant style, a calming environment and familiar comforts then ‘coastal grandmother’ is perfect for your home.

'When it comes to "coastal grandmother" and picking the right colour of paint, we'd suggest going for neutral tones. These neutral colour choices also pair perfectly with natural materials such as wicker boxes for organisation, as well as linen curtains for the effect of a coastal breeze when having your windows open during the warmer months.'

Image: Caro Bed, Furniture and Choice

'Blue is a universal favourite colour around the globe, and for good reason,' says Emma Bestley, creative director and co-founder of YesColours.

'It's often associated with the feeling of the ocean or the sky, transporting us straight back to holiday memories. To recreate this feeling look to incorporate teals and aqua blues, or for something more cocooning opt for a deeper blue.'

You don't have to stick to just one shade of blue, either. Mix and match different shades to create depth.

To get the look of a coastal cottage (even if you live in the middle of a city), the trick is to add features that are associated with such homes.

Vertical wooden panelling instantly adds a beachy element to any interior, and you can amp up the look by painting it a rich shade of blue. If you want to keep things rustic, leave the wood in its natural, untreated state.

Image: Coral Art Prints, Beach House Art

'Blue is one of the most popular colours for bedrooms. It can have a positive effect on your mood as it connects us to a blue sky or ocean coastline,' notes Joanna Ross, general manager of design at Sheridan.

'Using nature to inspire your interior immediately helps you to feel relaxed. Whether you add a dark blue feature wall or incorporate a blue textured quilt cover, the colour blue is known to help calm the mind and produce a feeling of tranquillity – and who isn’t looking for some of this before going to sleep at night.'

Image: Coastal Stripe Navy Bed Linen, The Secret Linen Store

To add personality to your coastal-inspired interior, make sure to work in unique and intriguing details – a piece of driftwood found on the beach, perhaps, or a candlestick holder scavenged from an antique shop.

Quirky and unique details are what will add a laidback and welcoming feel to your space; crucial elements in any beachside abode.

Image: Palm Beach House Collection, Next

Just as important as blue in coastal interiors, neutral shades are what will give your space a sense of tranquillity.

'Natural yet sophisticated, lighter colours such as beiges, greys and whites promise to bring a serene and calm feel to a kitchen. Utterly timeless, these hues pair beautifully with other colours and can make a quiet statement on their own through subtle detailing,' says Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone.

Joanna Ross, general manager of design at Sheridan, agrees: 'If you’re working with a more neutral colour palette, add sandy tones for a timeless take on coastal decor.'

'Whether it's a subtle splash, or something bolder, choosing a blue sofa can bring a pop of colour and a state of calm and stability to your living space,' says Dani Burroughs, head of product for Snug. 'A lighter hue such as a soft teal can bring a calming influence. It’s perfectly mellow, not too loud and bright and not too dull either.

'Blue makes for a great sofa choice due to its versatility; it works well with a variety of tones and transitions well into different seasons. It could be a choice of a deeper, richer blue or a lighter, brighter version, there are many variations to choose from to suit your home.'

Image: Ss23 Natural History Museum range, Dunelm