Coastal Style: Let Me Count the Ways

Coastal style is a quickly growing decorating style, and its influence reaches far inland. Just about everyone loves coastal style d?cor; it reminds them of fun and relaxing time spent at the beach or a special tropical vacation.

However, there are subsets of coastal style. They have similarities, such as a love of ocean hues, bright tropical colors, and sun-bleached or weathered white, use of natural fabrics and materials, and a celebration of natural light. But there are differences, as well.

American Coastal: Relaxed, Warm, and Welcoming

Called cottage coastal, contemporary coastal, and modern coastal, American coastal style is gaining popularity even in places far from the coast. Its warm, relaxed, friendly vibe conjures up carefree summer days. The style mixes classic elements with a casual, laid-back mood.

The most important elements of American coastal style include:

• Plenty of natural light
• Ocean hues and warm whites
• Natural fiber rugs such as sisal and jute
• Natural woven fabrics such as cotton and linen
• Woven seagrass on furniture or walls

Woods can be left natural or painted white and slightly distressed or weathered. Windows can be left bare, or soft sheers that let in as much light as possible. Letting in plenty of light helps give the space its comfortable, open feel. The Coastal Living Resort King Water Meadow Woven Bed from Stanley Furniture explores this aesthetic with its subtle woven water hyacinth and white weathered finish. Wood floors and ocean hues in the area rug and bed linens support the look.

Tropical Island Coastal: Simple and Easy Living

The most important elements of tropical island coastal style include:

A restful, monochromatic palette with gentle hues of blue, green, or lavender will create the right environment for restful sleep. And don’t forget the ceiling. Rather than leaving it a bland, blank surface, try adding a subtle pattern in a slightly lighter color than the walls. This will make the space feel intimate and cozy. The Criteria Queen Upholstered Bed from Bernhardt with light gray fabric and pale lavender walls soothe the soul while adding a touch of drama.

• Bright, tropical colors and patterns
• Tropical woods such as teak, bamboo, and rattan
• Island and nautical-inspired accessories
• Tropical foliage as an accent
• Natural textures and fibers

Simple and versatile furnishings are the hallmark of tropical island coastal style. A blend of British West Indies and Polynesian design, the Bali Hai Bedroom Group from Tommy Bahama Home brings the tropical island mood into your bedroom. It features tropical details such as woven raffia drawer fronts and leather-wrapped rattan and bamboo. The round accent table features a woven bamboo base and elegant, crushed bamboo top. The bed linens bring in bright colors and tropical motifs.

Mediterranean Coastal

Inspired by the coastal towns of Greece, Spain, and Italy, Mediterranean coastal style combines a centuries-old aesthetic with a coastal vibe. It shares the elements of natural light, bright, fresh colors, and natural materials expected in coastal style homes, but with a Mediterranean twist. The style is elegant and refined, yet casual and cool.

The most important elements of Mediterranean coastal style include:

• Sun-baked colors
• Heavy woods
• Metal accents
• Carved detailing

The colors might be a little more muted, the patterns a little more subtle, but the coastal vibe is definitely there. Rich textures and natural materials blend in a playful exotic style. Woven abaca and lampakanai, carved wood, accents of copper and nailhead trim capture the essence of both coastal and Mediterranean styles, seamlessly merging them into a cohesive look. The Island Estate Queen Bedroom Group from Tommy Bahama Home demonstrates how these elements work together. You’ve still got the natural light, botanical-inspired prints and patterns with flourishes that are slightly more ornate than you’d find in other coastal styles.

If you are looking to add some coastal flair to your home, visit the Baer’s Furniture store nearest you and speak with one of our in-house design professionals.