How to Decorate a Beach House in Coastal Decor

Decorating a beach house can be fun. If coastal decor is your goal, you'll want to bring the surrounding nature inside. Check out the beach for shells and driftwood, and visit local antique shops for special finds. Remember that coastal decor is light and airy.

Things You'll Need

• Shells and driftwood White paint Beach memorabilia

Instructions

1. A beach house is reminiscent of sunny days, lazy afternoons and whitewashed sand. Paint the walls cool white or paint the furniture white. You want a crisp, clean look for a coastal decor.

2. Beach colors are cool whites, sand, beige, blues, pinks, pale greens and corals. Pick out cool whites, beige, and sand for the walls and floors. Accent with the blues, greens, pinks and corals. Use these colors with curtains, pillows, cushions, glassware and collectibles.

3. Consider developing your coastal decor around shells, nautical items, dolphins or starfish. Choose a theme based on your area for a more natural look. Use the theme in your fabrics, lamps, dishware and collectibles.

4. Create a comfortable atmosphere. A coastal decor should be relaxing. Pick out fabrics in floral, stripes and checks. Look for rattan or wicker furniture with overstuffed cushions. Consider a picnic table for the kitchen table or a simple drop-leaf table with mismatched chairs. In the bedrooms, use antique wrought-iron beds painted white and covered with crisp cotton bedspreads or a homemade quilt.

5. Add accessories. Working with your theme, add a shell wreath on the bathroom wall or a piece of driftwood on the coffee table. Place beach signs or old lobster traps on the walls. Choose hurricane or whimsical lamps decorated with fishermen or sailboats.

Tips & Warnings

• You may find the whimsical, fun items you need for coastal decor among things you already own. Add a few scatter rugs to a bare floor.

• Avoid heavy, dark furniture and dark colors.

Resources

• Coastal Decor Items