Tips for Remodeling a Home with a Coastal Style

As someone who has always been drawn to the calming and refreshing aesthetics of coastal living, I decided to bring that same vibe into my own home. Coastal style isn’t just about beach houses—it’s a timeless look that can be incorporated into any home, whether you live by the sea or not. The key is to create an atmosphere that feels fresh, airy, and full of natural light, with colors and materials that evoke the beauty of the ocean. Through my own home remodeling journey, I’ve gathered several essential tips that will help you bring the coastal style into your space in a way that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

1. Embrace Soft, Neutral Colors

One of the easiest ways to start remodeling your home into a coastal haven is by focusing on the color palette. I’ve found that the colors you choose can instantly transform a space, making it feel more relaxed and open. Coastal style is all about light, airy colors that mimic the sea and sky.

1.1 Shades of Blue and White

Blue is an iconic color in coastal design, evoking the colors of the ocean. But it’s not just about any blue—it’s about the soft, muted shades like powder blue, ocean mist, or navy that feel fresh and calming. White is also essential in coastal style. It brightens up any room and creates a sense of openness. When remodeling my home, I painted the walls in soft white and added pops of navy and turquoise through accessories and furniture. It immediately gave the space that coastal vibe I was after.

1.2 Earthy and Natural Tones

Incorporating natural hues like sand, driftwood gray, and beige creates a grounding, earthy feel that connects the home to nature. These colors complement the blues and whites and work wonderfully with natural materials like wood and stone. When I chose wood accents for my furniture, I went with lighter finishes that mimicked driftwood, giving my space an effortless beachy vibe.

2. Opt for Natural Materials

Coastal design is all about materials that connect to the environment, so choosing natural, sustainable elements is crucial. Over the course of my remodel, I learned that texture and material choices are just as important as color.

2.1 Wood: Light, Weathered, and Natural

Wood is a fundamental material in coastal design. I love using light, weathered wood because it adds texture and depth to a room without overpowering it. Whether it’s hardwood flooring, reclaimed wood for furniture, or wooden beams on the ceiling, wood brings warmth and authenticity to a space. In my remodel, I used whitewashed wood floors and rustic wooden shelves that echoed the natural beauty of the coast.

2.2 Wicker, Rattan, and Linen

Rattan and wicker furniture pieces instantly create a relaxed, beachy atmosphere. I added a few wicker chairs and a rattan coffee table in my living room, and it immediately created that cozy yet airy vibe. Linen is another must-have material in a coastal home. It's lightweight, breathable, and feels luxurious yet casual. Linen throw pillows, curtains, and cushions helped add softness and texture to my remodel, giving the space an inviting, laid-back feel.

3. Maximize Natural Light

The beauty of a coastal home lies in its connection to nature, so you need to let as much natural light into your home as possible. During my remodel, I focused on creating spaces that felt open and full of light.

3.1 Open Windows and Sliding Glass Doors

I replaced some of the traditional windows with sliding glass doors that open directly to the patio. This not only flooded my home with natural light but also created a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Open windows with light, airy curtains also helped brighten up rooms without compromising privacy.

3.2 Skylights and Glass Features

If you have the option, skylights are a fantastic way to add natural light. They provide sunlight without obstructing your view or taking up wall space. I added a couple of skylights in my kitchen, and the difference they made in terms of light and airiness was incredible. Glass features, like glass shower doors or glass partition walls, can also help light flow throughout the space.

4. Focus on Simple, Functional Furniture

When remodeling for coastal style, it’s important to focus on simplicity and functionality. Coastal design isn’t about clutter; it’s about creating a calm, organized space that’s easy to live in.

4.1 Sleek and Minimalist Furniture

I avoided overly ornate or heavy furniture and instead opted for pieces that were simple, streamlined, and functional. Think light-colored sofas with clean lines, soft armchairs, and minimalist tables. This kept the space feeling open and airy. I also prioritized comfortable seating—after all, coastal living is about relaxation.

4.2 Storage Solutions

Incorporating practical storage solutions is key to keeping the space clutter-free. I added plenty of built-in shelves, cabinets, and hidden storage, which helped keep everything organized without sacrificing style. Whether it’s storing beach towels or extra linens, having storage that blends into the design will ensure your home stays neat.

5. Add Coastal-Inspired Décor

To truly infuse your home with coastal charm, you can incorporate coastal-inspired décor. I’ve found that it doesn’t have to be over-the-top nautical, but subtle touches that remind you of the beach work wonders.

5.1 Incorporating Natural Elements

When it comes to décor, I added plenty of natural elements like seashells, driftwood sculptures, and coral. These items immediately made my space feel like a beach retreat without being kitschy. Simple framed beach photographs or watercolors are also a great addition to the walls, evoking the serene beauty of the ocean.

5.2 Indoor Plants

I also introduced some coastal-friendly indoor plants to my home, such as palm trees, succulents, and ferns. These plants thrive in coastal environments and add a vibrant touch of greenery. Plus, they help purify the air and contribute to the relaxed vibe of a coastal home.

6. Outdoor Living Spaces

Finally, no coastal remodel is complete without enhancing your outdoor living areas. Coastal homes often blur the line between indoor and outdoor living, and I made sure to incorporate that into my remodel.

6.1 Decks, Patios, and Lounging Areas

I extended my living space outdoors with a spacious deck and patio area. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply relaxing with a book, outdoor spaces are a must. I used comfortable, weather-resistant furniture and added cozy touches like blankets and cushions, making it easy to transition from the indoors to the outdoors.

6.2 Pool and Garden Areas

If you have the space, a pool is a perfect complement to a coastal remodel. I added a small, in-ground pool surrounded by tropical plants, which created the ultimate seaside escape right in my own backyard. Even if you don’t have a pool, designing a beautiful garden with native plants can enhance the coastal feel.