How to bring the beach home with coastal interiors

You don’t have to live by the sea to soak up coastal style, as Phoebe Harper proves

Top image by James Merrell

These hazy, heatwave days have many of us landlocked Cambridgeshire residents craving the cool of the coast. Although the beach might be a drive away, there’s no reason why you can’t emulate this treasured summer environment within the comfort of your own home.

Despite traditionally being purely for bathroom design, modern coastal interiors introduce a laid-back, seaside feel that works well throughout the house, upholding a preference for white, neutral and blue palettes, and an emphasis on organic textures.

Moving away from those overtly nautical themes (no more driftwood seagull sculptures, please), contemporary coastal-inspired home decor exudes a simplicity and cleanliness that’s perfect for creating a rustic, relaxed sanctuary, no matter how far you are from the sea.

Beside the seaside

When it comes to coastal interior design, there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re drawn to bold seaside nostalgia or prefer a more subtle appreciation of the shore, it’s a versatile theme that holds something for everyone.

For those who adore the style and energy of a classic British beach holiday, think vibrant stripes, punchy blues and reds, deckchair-inspired prints and whimsical seaside motifs – perfect for creating a joyful, playful vibe in kitchens, bathrooms or even children’s bedrooms.

For fun, nautical whimsy, wallpapers by Fiona Howard are a brilliant choice – whether you’re plastering a small room in a bold print or simply adding a decorative border with quirky illustrations from the shoreline. These make a fantastic runner for above your bath, transporting you back to the coast while soaking in the tub.

For a more subtle nod, a marine scheme can become a thoughtful tribute to ocean ecology. Soft seaweed greens, sandy neutrals and shell pinks paired with textures like rattan, seagrass and weathered woods offer a grounded, yet stylish aesthetic. Incorporate sea-inspired decor – think coral-shaped ceramics or fish-scale tiling – for a look that’s both elegant and eco-aware. Prints from Beach House Art make a gorgeous finishing touch, while British interiors company Oka excels in tasteful home furnishings crafted using natural and organic materials.

Alternatively, you might prefer to embrace the calm and serenity of the coast with a more understated palette: think seafoam greens, misty greys and washed-out blues paired with pale woods and linen fabrics. Adding driftwood, pebbles or sea glass accessories captures the sense of quiet reflection that can be found in long walks along the shore. This softer approach works beautifully in bedrooms or living areas, where relaxation is key.

: Natural furnishings from Oka

: Whimsical Fiona Howard wallpapers

From beach to bedroom

Several interior brands and designers are making serious waves when it comes to nailing the coastal aesthetic. On the high street, The White Company continues to lead the charge with its timeless palette of soft whites, muted blues and natural textures. Its homeware collections, from hand-thrown ceramics to breezy linen bedding, channel understated seaside elegance – ideal for those seeking a more minimalist, calming coastal feel.

Meanwhile, Soho Home, the interiors brand behind Soho House, offers a slightly moodier take on coastal chic. With dusky ocean hues, textured fabrics and curated nautical accents, its style leans into the concept of the rugged British coastline – think Cornish cliffs rather than Californian sun. It’s refined, grown-up… and very 2025.

Even TV has had its say. BBC’s Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr has shown contestants crafting spaces inspired by the coast, often leaning into sustainable materials and ocean-themed motifs that reflect wider trends in eco-conscious design and biophilic influences.

Closer to home, East Anglia’s largest independent home store, Glasswells, has a range specifically intended for creating a tranquil coastal retreat. The Lavenham bedroom collection offers a timeless trio that evokes the relaxed elegance of seaside living. Think traditional silhouettes with curved edges rendered in soft, muted colours and natural wood finishes, all designed to establish a calming and inviting bedroom environment.

: Beach House Art prints

: Glasswells’ light-toned furniture

Easy breezy

Achieving the coastal look at home doesn’t require a full renovation – or even proximity to the sea. With the right colours, textures and accessories, seaside charm can be introduced throughout the home like a welcome breeze by the shore.

In the living room, opt for a calming base of soft whites, warm greys or gentle blues. “Hazy by Farrow & Ball just begs to be used in a sun-drenched room,” advises Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador at the company. “A perfect choice for those blessed with a coastal home, it ticks all the nautical boxes with its fresh notes. Team it very simply with a flattering clean white such as Wevet for woodwork and the ceiling, and layer the room with an array of blue checks and stripes for a full seaside look.” Layer in texture using linen cushions, woven throws and rattan or driftwood furniture to evoke that relaxed beach house vibe. Perhaps a large jute rug or a reclaimed wood coffee table could anchor the space (pardon the pun) while maintaining a natural, lived-in look.

In bedrooms, embrace a soothing palette to encourage rest and relaxation.

Try muted ocean tones like Aquamarine by Little Greene or Borrowed Light by Farrow & Ball. Bedding in crisp, white cotton or washed linen brings that seaside hotel freshness, while soft furnishings in shell, coral or coastal stripe prints can add tasteful nods to the theme. Look for brands like Neptune or Piglet in Bed for elegant, coastal-inspired options.

Kitchens and bathrooms lend themselves especially well to bolder seaside motifs. Experiment with playful tiles, such as fish-scale patterns or maritime blues, for a statement splashback. Light wood cabinetry or tongue-and-groove panelling echoes beach-hut charm while ceramic jars, rope baskets and sea-glass-toned glassware add a thoughtful, layered finish.

Wherever you live, the key to coastal interiors is creating a sense of light, space and calm. By mixing natural materials with ocean-inspired tones and curated accessories, you can bring a taste of the beach home – without ever leaving it.