How to Decorate With a Beach Theme

Decorating with a beach theme imparts a restful and relaxing feel to the home. Perhaps it reminds one of being on vacation near the sea and the calming effects of the ocean. Here's how you can decorate your home with a beach theme.

Things You'll Need

• Colors found in nature
• Natural items such as shells, driftwood, glass
• Nautical decorative items

Instructions

1. Color is the first step in creating a beach theme room. Paint the room a subtle restful color such as ocean blues and greens and grays. The tan color of beach sand could also be used. This is just a backdrop for the room and should be subdued.

2. White should be the other main color in the room. Furniture covers, bedspreads, sheets, curtains should all be white. This provides a clean crisp background to highlight your natural decorative items.

3. Bring in some natural items found at the seashore such as real seashells, driftwood, and seaglass.

4. Add glass items in blue or green seaglass colors. These can be vases, bowls or figurines. It is better to have one or two large pieces than a jumble of small figurines or glass bowls. Place the natural items into the glass vases or bowls for display.

5. Bring in accent tables made of natural materials such as wood or wicker. This will make a nice contrast from the white curtains and slipcovers.

6. Add some color with pillows. These should be solid-colored in cool water tones likes blues and greens. Mix and match the blues and greens and do not make all the pillows the same color.

7. Lighting is important in any room. Try to select lamps that have glass bases or metallic shiny bases. This will create a reflective quality similar to reflections off ocean water.

8. Add a natural fiber or jute rug. Some of the rugs made for outdoor use would be ideal here.

9. Add a large mirror to act as a focal point and reflect the serene surroundings in your new room.

Tips & Warnings

• White curtains could be made of gauzy material so that breezes move them about if you live in a warmer climate