15 Simple Ways to Style Modern Coastal Design
Find contemporary twists on classic coastal style.
With its sea-inspired colors, natural textures, and lived-in appeal, coastal design is both timeless and inviting. If your personal style leans toward modern, there are plenty of ways to make coastal homes feel more contemporary. Incorporate modern staples like sculptural light fixtures, sleek silhouettes, and polished finishes to create a balance between classic and modern coastal design for a space that feels both comfortable and chic. To help you gather inspiration, we've put together 15 stylish ideas to incorporate modern coastal design into your home.
1. Choose Pared-Down Colors
Modernize your coastal color palette by choosing nature inspired hues. Think of classic coastal colors, such as sandy beige, crisp white, and shades of blue. Opt for muted versions of these to build a soft, dreamy color palette full of warm gray, slate blue, and driftwood tan. For a bold pop of color, lean into traditional nautical colors like navy blue or sunny yellow.
While a white slipcovered sofa is a staple in classic coastal homes, a modern sofa or sectional is an excellent way to make your space feel contemporary. Look for sleek designs with angular shapes, minimalist cushions, and mid-century modern sensibilities. A soft cognac-colored leather (like the one in the photo above) adds rich natural texture and warmth to the space. Plus, leather softens over time and develops a beautiful patina that matches the relaxed attitude of coastal style.
For a transitional approach to coastal style, mix traditional silhouettes with modern pieces to create a bespoke look that feels unique to your home. This technique gives your space longevity, since you can swap out a sofa or change the area rug without having to worry about new pieces clashing as you might with a more rigid theme. We love how these angular armchairs pair with this timeless upholstered ottoman and wagon wheel chandelier.
Tip!
Learn more about the art of combining modern style with aged accents with our guide on Modern Vintage Interior Design.
4. Soften the Bedroom
If you want to make your bedroom feel like a coastal resort, fresh bedding is a great way to elevate your space. To match the laid-back and luxurious feel of modern coastal design, look for soft, breathable fabrics. Bedding made from natural fibers like cotton or linen are smooth, lightweight, and soften with each wash. Choose bedding in an inviting neutral hue to complement this soothing color palette.
Give your dining room a modern coastal refresh with a minimalist mix of clean lines and natural finishes. Choose a dining table with a weathered wood finish to play up the beach-inspired design. Pick mismatched dining chairs to add a bit of flair, mixing modern and traditional chairs to achieve a transitional balance between the two styles.
Greenery is an excellent way to brighten up pared-back color palettes. The bright green hue pairs well with the sandy neutral tones and brings a bit of nature indoors. Tuck each houseplant into a planter with beachy details, such as a rattan overlay or a speckled glaze, to complement the other natural textures throughout the space. Stick to classic coastal plant species like ornamental grasses and palms.
Modern spaces don't need to feel cold – instead, layers of soft textiles can bring warmth and comfort to soften the sharp edges of modern design. Keep cozy throw blankets folded in a wicker basket or draped over the edge of the sofa so you can cover up on breezy evenings. Roll out a plush area rug to define the space and add softness underfoot. For modern coastal living rooms, opt for cotton flatweave rugs or woven jute rugs for fuss-free texture.
Though modern coastal spaces emphasize the importance of natural light, it's important to choose light fixtures that add ambience at night (or during stormy days). Go for light fixtures that blend elements of both coastal and modern styles, such as a woven texture, geometric shape, or minimalist silhouette. This wicker pendant light is a great example; the simple sphere shape shade adds the right amount of visual interest to this entryway.
Your bathroom should be the perfect spot to wash the salt water off after a long day at the beach. Pick a bathroom vanity with a rustic finish and sleek hardware for a modern coastal focal point. Install patterned floor tile for a stylish nod toward modern bathroom designs, and opt for wicker bathroom accessories to incorporate some natural texture and warmth to the bathroom.
Modern coastal homes are an ideal place to blend indoor and outdoor spaces. With a comfortable patio conversation set, you can create another living space that's great for entertaining and relaxing. Choose a patio set made with durable, weatherproof materials like teak or resin wicker so that your outdoor space can withstand the elements. Lay down an outdoor rug beneath the patio set to tie the space together, prevent any slips, and help you avoid tracking sand inside.
From weeknight meals to summertime celebrations, a sleek outdoor dining set is a versatile addition to modern coastal homes. Pick a dining set that has a modern shape, such as this chic metal dining set. Plush seat cushions provide comfortable seating, while a sweet coastal-style umbrella keeps things cool. Outdoor lanterns play up coastal vibes while providing ambient candlelight for intimate gatherings.
Whether you're working with built-in bookcases or an empty coffee table, styling these spaces with modern coastal decor can be a fun challenge. Mix decorative pieces that feel modern with ones that appear more traditional, such as a pair of organic-shaped vases next to a piece of driftwood. Incorporating both practical and decorative objects into your display helps the space feel well-styled, but not overly curated.
Wallpaper is an exciting way to create visual interest in modern coastal design. Whether you're wallpapering a powder room or an entryway, think about classic coastal motifs like stripes, beachy florals, or tropical leaves. Pick a grass cloth wallpaper to add subdued texture to the walls, or opt for a subtle tropical design (like in the photo above) for a playful yet elegant accent wall.
For the days where you'd rather hang out by the pool, a patio sofa provides a comfortable spot to relax and unwind. Pick a patio sofa with cushions made from durable outdoor fabrics. These fabrics are resistant to stains, mold, and fading, so you don't have to worry about them withstanding everyday wear (or the elements). Place a patio umbrella near your poolside setup to provide shade while you relax the day away.
Tip!
Check out our guide 15 Pool Furniture Ideas to Upgrade Your Poolside Space to find inspiration.
15. Add Clean-Lined Designs
Small touches like a table lamp or piece of wall art can complete your room. Whether you want your space to feel more contemporary or more classic, these little details can sway the overall appeal. Try adding a framed nautical map to bring in that timeless classic style, or top a dresser with a polished table lamp.
