'It's where heritage tradition meets the barefoot ease of living near the water' – this is how to nail the 'Eastcoastal' aesthetic, according to a designer who lives it year-round

Old money coastal style is emerging as a significant interior design trend for the summer, characterized by understated elegance fused with coastal chic. This aesthetic draws inspiration from the luxurious homes found in areas like Cape Cod, offering a pared-back yet elevated look that is expected to have lasting appeal beyond typical fleeting trends. Interior designers describe it as a blend of 'quiet luxury' and classic coastal decor, resulting in spaces that feel opulent, relaxed, and perfectly suited to a seaside environment. The essence of old money coastal style lies in its subtle, collected luxury, as explained by interior designer Georgia Zikas. Unlike overtly showy displays of wealth, this style is more about a refined sense of sophistication, often incorporating items with a natural patina, such as weathered teak furniture, which suggests inherited taste rather than brand-new acquisitions. The aim is to create interiors that are lovely and accommodating with modern amenities, yet avoid ostentation. Achieving this balance of pared-back luxury and curated style involves several key elements. Firstly, decorating with heirloom pieces is crucial. These can be family furniture or decorative items that impart an authentic, lived-in feel and a sense of history, reinforcing the 'old money' aspect. Refurbished or repainted wicker, weathered teak, or refreshed wrought iron pieces are excellent examples of how inherited charm can be integrated into the design. Secondly, the color palette typically revolves around neutral and earthy hues rather than bright or saturated colors. The preference is for warm neutrals, such as taupe and beiges that evoke sand dunes, soft blue-greens reminiscent of the Atlantic Ocean, or pale greens inspired by marshlands. The objective is to select room colors that feel warm and inviting, consciously avoiding stark whites or cool tones that can appear cold and unwelcoming. Thirdly, incorporating natural elements like cut flowers and plants from the garden is a distinctive feature. Instead of large, commercially arranged bouquets, the style emphasizes simple displays of garden clippings in various vases, both old and new. This practice not only brings the outdoors in but also aligns with the understated elegance, suggesting a natural abundance rather than elaborate purchases. Fourthly, a careful mix of old and new elements is essential. Authentic old money coastal schemes avoid interiors that look entirely brand new, instead embracing a curated blend of vintage and contemporary items. This could involve combining modern comfortable outdoor sectionals with dining sets that possess a certain 'grit' or character, or pairing vintage furniture and Persian rugs with modern lighting and window treatments, creating an elevated yet inviting atmosphere. Finally, the old money coastal aesthetic extends beyond interiors to outdoor spaces. Especially in summer, outdoor areas are styled to reflect the same elegant, understated feel. This involves extending the color scheme, such as blue and white pairings, to outdoor furniture like striped sun loungers and patio umbrellas. Materials like teak and rattan that exhibit age and patination further enhance the aesthetic, contributing to a cohesive and stylish indoor-outdoor living experience. #OldMoneyCoastal #InteriorDesignTrends #SummerDesign #QuietLuxury #CoastalDecor #HeirloomPieces #NeutralPalette #EarthyHues #OutdoorLiving

The Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa, located in Pacific City, Oregon, a two-hour drive from Portland, stands as a testament to integrating local vernacular and natural elements into hospitality design. Designed by Rick Berry of Scott Edwards Architecture and furnished by EDG Design, led by Jennifer Johanson, the lodge is a passion project by real-estate developers Jeff Schons and Mary Jones of Kiwanda Hospitality Group. The collaboration aimed to create a destination that reflects the unique character of the Pacific Northwest, characterized by strong lines, Asian influences, and designs resilient to the wet climate. The initial vision for the lodge was inspired by the picturesque town of Cannon Beach, but a site visit by Johanson and EDG partner Patrick O’Hare, involving kayaking, crabbing, and exploring sand dunes, shifted the focus from conventional luxury to an outdoorsy, authentic experience. This re-evaluation led to a design philosophy that prioritizes connecting guests with the natural environment and promoting adventurous activities, replacing a traditional concierge with a team of adventure coaches. The architectural layout features a main building housing public spaces like the lobby lounge and Meridien restaurant, offering an ocean-to-table menu. Below this, on the sloped site leading to the beach, is the Tidepools Spa with a walk-out hot tub. Connected by a bridge, a perpendicular three-story building contains guest accommodations, each boasting view-facing covered balconies and decks. The exterior is clad in cedar shingles, designed to silver with age, and indigenous basalt stone is used for features like the porte cochere and lounge fireplace, emphasizing local materials and a commitment to authenticity, including a real wood-burning hearth. Interior design elements further reinforce the regional identity. Douglas fir timber frames the cathedral ceiling of the lounge and restaurant, while oak flooring, stained and configured to resemble a Native American rug, adds cultural depth. Johanson intentionally positioned a warm, welcoming fireplace as the central greeting point for guests, rather than a conventional reception desk. Custom seating, including a serpentine leather sectional and rosy banquettes, alongside stripy restaurant booths, provides comfort. Lighting fixtures, such as woven sea grass pendants inspired by Native American baskets, and a contemporary branching chandelier, contribute to a natural and slightly trendy ambiance. Adding to the local flavor, the lodge features a significant connection to Pendleton Woolen Mills, with Pendleton blankets displayed as tapestries and incorporated into guest rooms as blankets and pillows. The 33 guest rooms and suites, ranging from 400 to 450 square feet, offer comfort through fireplaces, sectionals, and, in larger rooms, cast-iron tubs. They are designed to accommodate an active lifestyle, with wall brackets for bikes and surfboards. Local artwork from Pacific City’s Rowboat Gallery, showcasing Oregon artists and pieces like driftwood sculptures, adorns the walls. A unique interactive gallery concept on the ground level encourages guests to share their experiences by printing and clipping photos to a wire, fostering a sense of community and shared adventure. The overall design narrative encourages guests to return seasonally, much like the geese depicted in the reception desk’s laser-cut steel, reinforcing the lodge’s deep connection to its natural surroundings and local culture. #HeadlandsCoastalLodge #ScottEdwardsArchitecture #EDGDesign #PacificNorthwest #HospitalityDesign #Oregon #CoastalLodge #SustainableDesign #LocalArt

The 'Coastal Auntie' aesthetic, a new interior design trend emerging from social media platforms like TikTok and Pinterest, offers a refreshed and more contemporary take on the popular 'Coastal Grandmother' style. This trend encapsulates the relaxed, sun-soaked ambiance of coastal living but integrates a cooler, more modern edge. It appeals to individuals who desire the tranquility of a coastal environment without adhering to overly traditional design elements. Coined by TikTok creator Italia Sofia, the Coastal Auntie style is described as a blend of a 'cool single aunt' and the Coastal Grandmother, presenting a sophisticated yet effortless look, reminiscent of a J.Crew catalog from the '90s. The aesthetic draws inspiration from the curated yet lived-in homes seen in Nancy Meyers' films, suggesting a space that feels collected and personal rather than impeccably styled. Interior designer Kathy Kuo notes that while it retains elements like woven materials, ocean-inspired colors, and subtle luxury, it differentiates itself with eclectic pops of color, cleaner silhouettes, and bolder patterns often associated with 'preppy' culture. To achieve the Coastal Auntie look, it is crucial to establish a balance between laid-back comfort and contemporary sophistication. A core principle involves minimizing overt coastal references, avoiding the common mistake of over-the-top thematic decorations often seen in traditional beach house interiors. Instead, the focus is on subtle nods to the seaside through texture and color, such as sandy beige tones, weathered wood, and soft blues. This approach ensures the home hints at the ocean rather than explicitly showcasing it, allowing for a more refined and enduring aesthetic. The design typically begins with a neutral base, incorporating shades of white, beige, gray, and greige. These foundational colors create a serene backdrop, which is then enhanced with layers of subtle blues, natural wood elements, and woven accents. Color is introduced through accents like wall art, soft furnishings, or painted details, rather than by saturating entire rooms, maintaining an elegant and cohesive feel without being minimalist. A defining characteristic of the Coastal Auntie style is its integration of contemporary accents. This can manifest through modern materials such as stainless steel and chrome, or through strategic use of contrasting colors like black to add depth and sophistication. The key is to select contemporary pieces that complement the existing decor, ensuring they enhance rather than disrupt the overall harmony. Examples include nickel-plated coasters with sea swirl designs, polished nickel shell ornaments, or striped cocktail napkins. Simultaneously, the aesthetic embraces rustic and antique elements. Pairing modern pieces with weathered, found, or thrifted items, such as distressed furniture, vintage rugs, or woven baskets, adds layers of personality and a lived-in feel. These rustic touches contribute to an inviting atmosphere, suggesting comfort and history without being overly formal. Finally, the Coastal Auntie home prioritizes authenticity and personal storytelling over perfection. It encourages the display of collected memories and trinkets, particularly those from travels, as decorative elements. This approach moves away from sterile, meticulously arranged spaces towards environments that reflect the unique personality and experiences of the homeowner. The blend of different styles and the acceptance of slight asymmetry and clutter contribute to a warm, welcoming, and genuine home that tells a story. #CoastalAuntie #InteriorDesign #HomeDecorTrends #CoastalDecor #ModernCoastal #NeutralPalette #RusticAccents #ContemporaryDesign #DesignEvolution

Hám Interiors, led by siblings Tom and Kate Cox, designed a coastal getaway from a former fisherman’s net loft overlooking Trevone Bay in North Cornwall. The project aimed to acknowledge the seaside location without resorting to obvious nautical clichés. Their design approach focused on creating a character for the imagined owner, an ‘eccentric sea captain,’ which guided their aesthetic choices. Instead of lighthouses or stripes, they incorporated architectural details such as shiplap cladding and aged stone cobbles to anchor the building in its environment. Intriguing elements like framed ships’ flags and decorative coastal birds suggest a collector's eye for the unique, moving beyond typical coastal decor. The clients, Jessica and Ash Alken-Theasby, owners of Atlanta Trevone, a luxury holiday rental property, decided to convert the dilapidated net loft into a fifth rental property. The building, which Jessica's great-uncle once used to store boats, was envisioned as Atlanta's eccentric relative, requiring a design that offered a sense of escapism. Tom and Kate Cox collaborated closely with Jessica and Ash, who also own the bespoke construction company Alkenby. This partnership allowed them to rebuild the loft and fine-tune every detail to achieve interiors that exude a timeless, established feel. Key design elements contributed to this aesthetic. For example, the main living room features beautifully aged cheeseboards individually selected by Tom for the timber flooring. The kitchen cabinetry employs a scumble paint effect, mimicking old mahogany furniture, adding to the folk art appeal. Kate highlighted the cabin-style bed in the main bedroom as a playful yet initially contentious element that ultimately proved popular with guests. The color palette predominantly uses blues, with each tone carefully chosen to complement the natural surroundings. Tom described these colors as having a powdery, mineral quality that brings warmth, making the space feel fresh and uplifting on sunny days and cozy during winter with a log burner lit. Wall decor enhances the whimsical atmosphere, incorporating folk art, flags, signs, and commissioned maritime paintings that evoke the naive style of sailors’ woolwork. Another distinctive area is the surf gallery, a functional space for parking cars and drying wetsuits, which adopts a Californian vibe. This is achieved through elements like a carved marlin trophy and a vintage Tigger Newling surfboard belonging to Jessica’s father. Jessica recounted the magical experience of staying in the loft with her children before its official opening, describing it as a wonderful journey into something exciting and unknown. The designers, Kate and Tom Cox, emphasized storytelling, the transformative impact of details like the scumble paint finish, and their go-to color, an earthy red. They characterize their style as eclectic, timeless, and whimsical, drawing inspiration from their family business dynamics and collective influences. Their philosophy is that a home should be comfortable, relaxed, and not taken too seriously. #CoastalStyle #WhimsicalDesign #FishermansCottage #HamInteriors #HolidayRental #NorthCornwall #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #EclecticDecor

This article details the transformation of two weatherboard cottages on Sydney's Northern Beaches into a serene family home that masterfully integrates with its natural surroundings. Designer Sarah Parry-Okeden, founder of Wild Orchid Spaces, spearheaded the four-year knockdown-rebuild project, which commenced in 2012. Her primary objective was to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, a vision inspired by the generous 7300sqm block and its dense natural landscape, including an abundance of palms. The original cottages, though structurally sound, presented challenges with their low ceilings, closed-plan layout, and minimal connection to the environment. The renovation resulted in two distinct residences: a coastal bungalow and guesthouse named 'Little Lokahi', and the main three-bedroom, four-bathroom beach house called 'Lokahi'. A key architectural concept, developed in collaboration with River Run Design and Bacuss Constructions, involved creating a highly fluid transition to the outdoors, making the environment an integral part of the home's design. To achieve this seamless integration, Sarah employed a carefully selected palette of natural stone and incorporated large-scale glass doors. The main residence features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that extends into an outdoor room beside the pool. A notable and innovative design element is the integration of existing palm trees directly into the structure of the outdoor living zone. This was achieved by reinforcing roof openings with circular steel rings, allowing the palm trunks to grow through, thereby bringing the natural canopy into the living space. The original pool beneath this area was repurposed into a rainwater tank. Sarah's design philosophy emphasized the importance of the kitchen, living, and dining areas as the heart of the home, dedicating at least half of the house to these spaces. The main bedroom suite, including an ensuite and retreat, offers treetop views. Even the children's bedrooms, though modest in size, feel expansive due to eight-meter-high gabled ceilings and Velux electric skylights that maximize natural light and ventilation. The interior aesthetic is rich in sensory detail, with a material palette balancing rough sandstone, featured in the foyer and as a block wall, with soft furnishings. Champagne Onyx stone extends floor to ceiling in the kitchen, complemented by 'Vogue' honed sandstone floor tiles. The color scheme is intentionally restrained to white with subtle warm undertones to highlight these natural materials. High-pile rugs define living zones, alongside custom and vintage furniture from Wild Orchid Spaces' collection, which includes refurbished and repurposed pieces from around the world. The outdoor areas further enhance the tropical resort feel with a daybed, a pool featuring Sukabumi stone tiles for their mineral properties, and a Bali thatch hut. The home's design ensures comfort in all seasons, with a back-to-back fireplace connecting indoor and outdoor living rooms and underfloor heating beneath the stone, making the space warm and inviting even in winter. #CoastalLiving #IndoorOutdoorFlow #SustainableDesign #LuxuryHomes #Renovation #InteriorDesign #LandscapeIntegration #NorthernBeaches #NaturalMaterials

Coastal style is a beloved aesthetic in Australian homes, characterized by its laid-back, breezy, and charming qualities, which perfectly complement the Australian lifestyle and climate. This article explores ten distinct variations of coastal style, offering decorating inspiration to infuse a holiday atmosphere into any living space, regardless of its proximity to the sea. The featured styles range from minimalist to rustic, providing a diverse palette of design choices. Minimalist coastal design emphasizes simplicity and clean lines, utilizing natural textures and a subdued color palette to evoke a serene, uncluttered seaside ambiance. Hamptons style, a perennial favorite, draws inspiration from the sophisticated beach houses of Long Island, New York, featuring classic architectural details, ample natural light, and a crisp, elegant feel often incorporating white and blue hues. Modern coastal style blends contemporary design elements with traditional coastal motifs, resulting in a fresh and updated look. This approach might involve sleek furniture, modern art, and a minimalist color scheme, while still retaining natural materials and a sense of openness. Country coastal combines the rustic charm of country living with the relaxed vibe of the coast. This style often incorporates distressed wood, vintage furniture, and cozy textiles alongside oceanic accents and a soft, inviting color scheme. Eclectic coastal embraces a mix of eras and design quirks, offering a more personalized and artistic interpretation of coastal living. As exemplified by interior designer Sibella Court's approach, this style moves beyond traditional white and nautical colors, incorporating oversized florals and stripes in dusty, muted tones to create a unique and characterful home that reflects memories of life by the sea. Classic coastal, on the other hand, adheres to timeless coastal elements, such as stripes, shell motifs, and a consistent palette of blues, whites, and sand tones, providing a reliably elegant and tranquil environment. Boho style, short for Bohemian, brings a free-spirited and unconventional touch to coastal design. This involves layering textures, patterns, and global influences, often featuring woven materials, vibrant colors, and an abundance of plants to create a relaxed and earthy, yet still seaside-inspired, space. Mediterranean coastal style draws inspiration from the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, characterized by terracotta, natural stone, wrought iron, and a warm color palette reminiscent of the European coast. This style often includes lush greenery and a focus on indoor-outdoor living. Rustic coastal design leans into natural, unfinished materials, emphasizing the rugged beauty of the seaside. This could involve reclaimed wood, weathered metals, and a raw, organic feel, creating a cozy and authentic connection to nature. Finally, luxe coastal elevates the coastal aesthetic with opulent finishes and sophisticated details. This might include high-end fabrics, polished surfaces, designer furniture, and refined decor, creating a luxurious and polished seaside retreat. Each of these ten styles offers a distinct way to bring the calming and invigorating essence of the coast into a home. #CoastalStyle #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DecoratingCues #MinimalistCoastal #HamptonsStyle #EclecticCoastal #LuxeCoastal #AustralianHomes

This article showcases the transformation of a bayfront property in Mantoloking, New Jersey, designed by Joe Lucas, a California designer and former Jersey native. Lucas undertook the renovation of his sister's beach house, aiming to move beyond stereotypical nautical themes and create a sophisticated coastal aesthetic. The project began with significant structural modifications to address tidal flooding; Lucas, in collaboration with Daniel Lynch of B.L.D.G. Architecture, elevated the main house an entire level, creating a new ground floor that includes a screened-in porch, mudroom, powder room, and garage. He also incorporated a loggia with outdoor entertaining spaces designed to withstand water. This elevation provided more expansive views of the bay from the enlarged and brighter living and dining areas. Key interior reconfigurations involved converting a screened-in porch into a sunroom, relocating the fireplace, and shifting the kitchen eight feet to accommodate a custom home bar, pantry, and beer refrigerator. Once the structural changes were complete, Lucas focused on interior design, adopting a less literal interpretation of the coastal style. He established a palette of watercolor grays and blues, using Farrow & Ball paints like Dimpse, De Nimes, and Parma Gray, to maintain a connection to the ocean while avoiding overt beach house clichés. Subtle nods to the family's beloved 1982 Fortier 26 boat, named Banter, are evident in elements such as copper lanterns over the kitchen island. Natural textures, including a nubby sisal rug in the living room, were chosen to evoke the shore's reeds and grasses, reinforcing the coastal connection without being overly thematic. The exterior received charming shore Colonial-style cladding with cedar shingles, replacing the original brick. Simple, heat- and humidity-resistant landscaping, featuring hydrangeas and crepe myrtle, complements the facade. Inside, various rooms feature carefully selected design elements. The stairway incorporates an earthy Nina Freudenberger for Lulu and Georgia rug, blending deep wood tones with the wall and trim colors, illuminated by Visual Comfort & Co. lighting, and flanked by Woven chairs. The living room displays lithographs of native Jersey Shore birds, with a Samsung Frame TV seamlessly integrated above the mantel. The custom sofa is upholstered in Ferrick Mason fabric, complemented by a Four Hands coffee table and a Marc Phillips rug. The kitchen boasts a teak-and-holly bar, reminiscent of boat interiors, with cabinets painted in Farrow & Ball's Mizzle and the island in Benjamin Moore's Slate Blue. Bliss Studio stools in Perennials fabric and vintage pendants from Santa Ynez General complete the space. The dining room features brass details on Woven chairs and a chandelier from The Urban Electric Co., creating a refined maritime ambiance, along with a custom Harbinger table and another Marc Phillips rug. The sunroom, described as a "jewel box," has a beadboard ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball's Parma Gray, custom Roman shades in James Dunlop Textiles fabric, and a Palecek coffee table. #CoastalDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #JoeLucas #JerseyShore #BeachHouse #ModernCoastal #StructuralChanges #DesignInspiration

Interior designer Ingrid Weir offers insights into achieving a modern coastal aesthetic in any home, whether it’s a vacation property or a primary residence, inland or by the ocean. Weir's forthcoming book, 'New Coastal,' focuses on moving beyond traditional, clichéd beach house decor, such as carved fishermen, fake fish, and an overabundance of nautical elements, to embrace a more refined, contemporary, and authentic seaside style. Her approach emphasizes thoughtful integration of natural elements and a serene palette, aiming for a look that feels relaxed and personal without being overly thematic. Weir's first tip is to select a neutral color palette, starting with white, then incorporating shades like ecru, linen, and limestone. This provides a clean, bright foundation that can be layered with various textures. To avoid an overly stark 'all-white' look, she suggests mixing in natural materials such as rattan, jute, and different wood tones to add warmth and depth, preventing the space from feeling too cold or sterile. The designer also cautions against using mass-produced, generic seaside decor, like soulless seashells or overly carved driftwood, recommending instead to source unique, meaningful items that tell a story or evoke genuine memories of the sea, such as a shell found during a happy moment or driftwood collected from a personal beach outing. Art plays a crucial role in bringing the ocean vibe indoors. Weir advises using visual representations of the sea, such as a gallery of ocean-themed images or even a palm tree mural based on a thrift store painting, to invite the feeling of the coast. When it comes to color, she suggests a limited palette of blue tones inspired by the sky and sea, emphasizing a mid-tone blue that evokes a sense of calm and cohesion, complementing the bleached-out, sun-faded aesthetic of coastal living. Additionally, she recommends incorporating playful patterns like stripes, especially in fabrics, rugs, and tablecloths, to add energy and contrast without overdoing florals or other corporate-looking prints. Embracing natural materials is a cornerstone of the 'New Coastal' style. Weir highlights materials such as rattan, raffia, seagrass, and rope, which bring an informal, outdoorsy appeal. These materials can be incorporated through rugs, baskets, and other decorative elements, creating a wonderful natural texture without feeling like cheap stunts. Functionality and durability are also key, particularly for homes that experience heavy use from children or pets. Weir advises choosing sturdy outdoor fabrics like Sunbrella, Kravet, Schumacher, or Scalamandré for indoor upholstery, allowing for easy cleaning and maintaining a relaxed, worry-free environment. Lighting is another critical element. Weir recommends warm, indirect lighting that creates a relaxed and romantic atmosphere, advising against harsh overhead lighting. The goal is to promote a sense of calm and well-being. Furthermore, she suggests allowing nature to take center stage by using clean, white window treatments or gauzy linen curtains that frame the views rather than blocking them, letting natural light and the outdoor landscape become part of the interior decor. Lastly, creating cozy outdoor spaces, such as a veranda with a hammock, extends the relaxed coastal vibe to the exterior, and selecting comfortable, peaceful furniture for every room helps maintain a consistent feeling of ease and relaxation throughout the home. #InteriorDesign #CoastalStyle #HomeDecor #IngridWeir #NewCoastal #NaturalMaterials #DesignTips #HomeStyling #BeachVibe

The article explores the contemporary coastal style prevalent in the Pacific Northwest, drawing insights from Paige Gray, lead designer and partner at B.C.-based Parker & Harlow Interior Design. This design philosophy is deeply influenced by the region's distinct way of life, characterized by factors such as frequent outdoor activities, unpredictable weather conditions leading to power outages, and the logistical challenges of furnishing remote island homes with limited resources. These environmental and lifestyle considerations directly shape material selections, technological integrations, and storage solutions, necessitating designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and resilient. Gray emphasizes that Pacific Northwest coastal style is fundamentally built on a foundation of contrasts. This includes combining smooth, serene natural stones with rustic, textured wool fabrics, or pairing a robust wooden table with a light, ethereal chandelier. These juxtapositions are central to Parker & Harlow’s design process, anchoring their aesthetic in the unique character of the Pacific Northwest. An illustrative example of this approach is a recent renovation project on a waterfront home on Cortes Island within the Discovery Islands archipelago. For this project, Gray and her team focused on the dining room, a space frequently used for social gatherings. The design intentionally features grand columns, beams, and expansive glass windows that frame the surrounding bay, creating a minimal yet captivating environment. The goal was to direct attention outward to the spectacular coastal vistas, allowing the natural beauty of steely greys, dark blues, and deep greens to become an integral part of the interior experience. In this Cortes Island dining room, the design ensures that cozy dining chairs and a solid black oak table are kept low in the sightline. This strategic placement maximizes the unobstructed views from the large windows, allowing the dramatic winter storms to be perceived as dynamic works of art. The philosophy behind this space is to foster a direct connection between the occupants and the ocean, asserting that the natural surroundings are the primary element of beauty and requiring nothing more to enhance the experience. To replicate this distinctive style in one's own home, Gray advises starting with organization and then seeking inspiration directly from the outdoors. The process involves paring back unnecessary elements to create spaces that promote breathing room and relaxation, aligning with the serene and uncluttered aesthetic of the Pacific Northwest. Gray suggests moving beyond conventional 'beachy' aesthetics and instead immersing oneself in the rugged natural environment. A walk through a rainy, rugged trail reveals a rich palette of colors and textures that can inform interior choices. For instance, the smooth sheen of rain on granite can inspire the finish of refined stone counters, while the deep, earthy hues of moss can influence tonal textures and weaves in textiles. This approach emphasizes deriving design elements directly from the natural landscape, promoting an authentic connection between the interior living space and its rugged, coastal environment. The article concludes by offering six practical ways to achieve a breezy, coastal calm look, providing tangible ideas for homeowners to incorporate this unique style into their own living spaces. #PacificNorthwestStyle #CoastalDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ParkerAndHarlow #CortesIsland #ArchitecturalInfluence #NatureInspiredDesign

Coastal interior design, characterized by its relaxed and timeless aesthetic, can transform any home into a tranquil retreat, whether or not it's situated by the ocean. This design philosophy emphasizes a deep connection to nature, focusing on functionality, durability, and a sense of effortless living. A primary aspect of coastal design involves integrating outdoor and indoor spaces seamlessly, encouraging residents to enjoy different times of the day and various weather conditions. Architectural elements like varied exterior spaces, outdoor showers, and direct outdoor access to bathrooms are essential for maximizing enjoyment of the natural environment and accommodating a beach lifestyle. Interiors are kept serene and simple, often featuring hardwearing materials that require minimal maintenance, thus promoting a relaxed atmosphere where one doesn't need to be overly concerned about wear and tear. Natural materials that echo the surrounding environment are favored, combining practicality with a strong sense of place. Practical considerations significantly contribute to the comfort and functionality of a coastal home. Ample built-in storage and numerous hooks are crucial for managing belongings, especially in homes that frequently host guests. Daybeds in living rooms can serve a dual purpose, functioning as seating during the day and as extra sleeping spaces for visitors. Casual entertaining areas, such as rustic outdoor kitchens with sinks, are highly valued for their utility in preparing meals, cleaning fish, and supporting outdoor activities, all while making the most of scenic views. When it comes to furniture, fuss-free, streamlined shapes and durable materials are preferred, reflecting the functional requirements of a coastal setting. A modern daybed, for instance, embodies this principle by offering essential comfort without unnecessary embellishments, blending natural materials like knotty pine and flagstone with a minimalist approach to decor. Embracing a lived-in look is key to authentic coastal interior design, shying away from overly manicured spaces. Soulful touches, collected objects, and practical pieces contribute to the character of a well-loved beach house. Natural materials such as wicker and rope, along with slipcover sofas and painted furniture, create a sense of history and warmth. The aim is for interiors to feel personal and reflective of journeys and memories, rather than sterile or mass-produced. Choosing character over cliché means moving beyond stereotypical nautical themes. While subtle nods to the sea are acceptable, the focus should be on creating a personalized space. For example, a renovated beach house might combine a wood-and-white color scheme with French modernist furniture, reflecting the owners' passions and creating a unique, characterful home. Incorporating utilitarian elements enhances the connection with nature and promotes a simplistic yet luxurious feel. A bathroom designed to maximize natural light and views, featuring a robust steel bathtub, exemplifies how functional elements can create a serene and element-connected experience. Harnessing the beauty of timber is another cornerstone of coastal design, with locally harvested wood and natural finish materials used extensively. Whitewashed cedar boards, Douglas Fir floors, and millwork, complemented by soft, fog-grey furnishings, create a casual, unfussy, and timeless palette. This approach integrates the interior with the external landscape, maintaining a connection to the environment. Subtle nautical touches are preferred over overt maritime motifs. Playing with primary colors and statement stripes in a restrained manner, such as through banquette seating and cushions, can achieve a sophisticated coastal-cool aesthetic. Natural materials continue to be paramount, with teak floors, jute rugs, and woven textures like basket-style pendants providing warmth and textural contrast against airy, white backdrops. This creates a blend of Californian style and modern luxury, reflecting the natural surroundings. Simple solid shutters, rather than traditional plantation styles, offer a robust and unfussy window treatment, aligning with a pared-back coastal interior and reinforcing a sense of shelter. Finally, weaving in vintage pieces adds depth and history, making a home deeply personal and reflective of cultivated collections. Combining vintage furniture and art with new custom pieces, along with practical considerations like accommodating children and pets, ensures the home is both stylish and livable, embodying a unique and authentic coastal aesthetic. #CoastalDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NaturalMaterials #FunctionalFurniture #TimelessAesthetic #OutdoorLiving #VintageDecor #SustainableDesign

This article details the collaborative effort behind the transformation of a formerly notorious beach lot at 11 E. Asheville Street into a modern coastal haven in Wrightsville Beach. The project was a result of the combined expertise of homebuilder Tanner Konrady of Konrady & Son Construction, Architect Eric Jabaley of Dogwood Architecture, and Lead Designer Brandy Crawford of Bridgett Mazer Interiors, all working closely with homeowners Wanda and Ron Copley. The Copleys initially purchased a property known for its past as a fraternity party house, with the intention of tearing down the existing structure and building a new home. Their decision to work with Tanner Konrady stemmed from his previous work repairing their condo after Hurricane Florence, establishing a foundation of trust. Konrady, a fourth-generation builder with extensive experience in coastal construction, emphasized the importance of durability and low maintenance in beach environments. His approach involved building with consideration for salt air, high humidity, storm exposure, and sun damage, utilizing materials like closed-cell foam insulation, sound-dampening interior walls, hurricane-rated windows, and pre-finished PVC siding and concrete-look panel systems that are designed for longevity and minimal upkeep. Konrady's team also facilitated the installation of expansive sliding doors and oversized windows to maximize ocean views and promote indoor-outdoor living, requiring careful structural planning. The architectural vision, led by Eric Jabaley, focused on creating a modern yet coastal-inspired home that blended with the local aesthetic while capturing ocean views. Jabaley worked to incorporate Wanda Copley's sophisticated vision, which desired a modern design rooted in the Wrightsville Beach vernacular. A key design element is the top-floor main living area, which extends onto a spacious wraparound porch through large sliding doors, effectively creating an additional outdoor room for relaxation and entertaining. This seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces allows residents to fully experience the coastal environment. Brandy Crawford, the lead designer, guided the interior aesthetic toward a "coastal modern" style, incorporating light, clean lines, and a less fussy approach. Wanda Copley's bold sense of style and love for color, particularly pink, were central to the interior design. This is most notably expressed in "The Pink Room," an office that doubles as a guest suite, featuring a hot pink sleeper sofa, ottomans, acrylic chairs, and pink cabinetry. Other design highlights include a powder bath with a floating, backlit vanity, and a wall-mounted resin art installation by Alex Turco in the second-level sitting room, referred to as "living glass." The home also includes an independent downstairs suite for the Copleys' daughter, complete with a kitchenette, en suite, and private porch, designed for independent living. The success of the project is attributed to the strong synergy and communication among the homeowner, builder, architect, and designer. The team's collaborative approach and shared commitment to the client's vision resulted in a custom-crafted home that reflects a unique lifestyle and personality. The project serves as an example of how a unified team can transform a challenging property into a beautiful and functional coastal residence, built to withstand environmental elements while exuding modern elegance. #CoastalRetreat #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #WrightsvilleBeach #Architect #CoastalConstruction #Homebuilder #ModernHome #Innovation

Coastal interiors, characterized by earthy materials and calming colors, are gaining renewed popularity for their ability to evoke relaxation, even far from the beach. The entryway, as the first impression of a home, is crucial in establishing this coastal aesthetic. Achieving a tasteful balance is key to avoid a kitschy look, which can easily occur with excessive ocean motifs. Interior designers offer several strategies to create appealing coastal entryways. Firstly, evoking the great outdoors is paramount. This involves integrating natural elements and ensuring the entryway complements outdoor scenery. Elizabeth Drake suggests framing water views, even winter landscapes, and using sunrise-inspired hues and organic materials like grasscloth and slate tile. Kathy Kuo adds that introducing furniture made from natural, textural materials such as jute, rattan, seagrass, and driftwood can create an instant coastal-chic feel. Styling with items like oversized seashells, coral, and woven trays or baskets further enhances this connection to nature. Secondly, embracing a coastal color scheme drawn directly from nature is essential. Lauren Kavanagh recommends shades reminiscent of the coastal environment, such as blues, greens, soft neutrals, sandy yellows, and warm white paints. These colors can be subtly incorporated through abstract wallpaper designs featuring watercolor brushstrokes that reflect the changing tones of the tide. Sue Kim notes that coastal style, expected to remain a top interior design trend in 2024, favors desaturated and soft hues derived from natural and recycled materials, aligning with a desire for calm and tranquil spaces. She suggests Minwax finishes like Oyster Gray, Gentle Olive, Silvered Gray, Vintage Blue, and White Wash for classic coastal tones. Thirdly, maximizing natural lighting is vital for a bright and airy coastal atmosphere. Lauren advises leaving windows and doors unobstructed and using cleverly positioned entryway mirrors to enhance space and openness. Emily LaMarque emphasizes keeping the space light and airy, suggesting comfortable benches with basket storage or console tables. She also recommends neutral and natural materials for furnishings, opting for slightly weathered finishes over highly polished ones. Textiles with casual patterns, like pale stripes or subtle neutral prints, and lightweight linen fabrics for window treatments and upholstery contribute to the desired lightness. Fourthly, ensuring the space is weather-resistant is practical for a coastal environment. Elizabeth Drake uses intricate entryway rugs to camouflage and trap sand and debris, favoring vintage Persian rugs for their weight and durability. She also uses durable floor tiles that resist scratches from sand and water stains, ensuring the longevity of the design. Fifthly, designers suggest embracing imperfection to achieve a rustic, natural look. Lauren recommends natural materials with beautiful imperfections, such as pale or white-washed woods, seagrass or jute runner rugs, and linen fabrics. Dried reeds, grasses, and flowers in handcrafted ceramic vases offer a modern interpretation of the style. Driftwood and shells can be used sparingly to avoid an overly literal or themed look. Sixthly, introducing modern accents helps to prevent coastal designs from appearing dated. Rayana Schmitz advises incorporating clean lines and sculptural elements that blend art with functionality. A hint of blue can add tranquility. Streamlined seating and unique, textured mirrors can modernize the coastal vibe. Finally, it is crucial to steer clear of kitsch. Literal interpretations of the beach, such as excessive seashells or palm tree accessories, can make a space feel over-the-top. Emily LaMarque suggests a few subtle touches if coastal motifs are desired, aiming for an inspired atmosphere rather than a themed one. Caroline Brackett recommends focusing on texture, such as wicker accents, raffia-wrapped consoles, grasscloth wall coverings, or sculptural mirrors, paired with a durable rug and an airy color palette. Hafsa Burt advises prioritizing light and setting over direct representations of the ocean, ensuring the entryway remains inviting and serene by maximizing natural light and resilience to outdoor elements. #CoastalEntryway #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NaturalMaterials #CoastalColors #NaturalLighting #WeatherResistantDesign #ModernCoastal

The coastal charm trend has gained significant popularity this year, manifesting in aesthetics like coastal grandma and coastal cowboy. The challenge lies in styling this trend to transcend fleeting fads and achieve a timeless appeal. While a muted coastal color palette inherently possesses a timeless quality, further considerations are necessary for enduring style. Charlotte Boyd, an interior stylist with over 20 years of experience, provides expert tips for integrating coastal living room and bedroom ideas that will remain stylish over time. Her advice focuses on strategic color choices, pattern selections, and material usage to create a look that is both fresh and classic. One fundamental recommendation is to opt for a simple color palette. This involves using soft whites and breezy blues, layering pale sky tones, and accenting with richer indigo and teal. To enhance the coastal theme, natural materials like woven seagrass, jute rope, and pale woods are incorporated, mimicking the textures found along the coastline and contributing to a relaxed and informal ambiance. This approach ensures a harmonious and serene environment characteristic of coastal living without being overly thematic. A light touch in design is another crucial aspect. To maximize natural light, chalk white or soft natural colors should be chosen for walls and floors. Adding visual interest can be achieved through wall paneling or pale textured rugs. For larger furniture pieces, light finishes are preferred. Sheer linen curtains or simple blinds that can be fully retracted are recommended to allow ample daylight to flood the space. White wall paneling offers a versatile blank canvas, allowing for pops of nautical color through painted furniture. When it comes to marine motifs, the advice is to select unusual and sophisticated designs, moving beyond cliched nautical stripes, sailing boats, and anchor patterns. Abstract wave designs can provide a contemporary feel, while coral and seaweed patterns can serve as ocean-inspired florals. These can be effectively complemented by plain textured linens or watercolor-inspired cottons, offering a refined interpretation of marine elements. Stripes, while synonymous with the coastal look, require subtle application to achieve timelessness. Excessive nautical stripes should be avoided. Instead, selecting a subtle stripe design for upholstery, such as on a bed, and pairing it with ocean-themed linens, creates a classic and understated effect. This careful consideration of stripe application prevents the design from becoming dated. Finally, integrating 'future vintage finds' is essential for adding depth and character to the scheme. Mixing old and new elements, such as retro shell illustrations, benches crafted from aged wood, or sea-green vintage bottles, contributes to an authentic and curated feel. Pieces with personal history or those collected over time imbue the space with a sense of genuine authenticity, ensuring the coastal aesthetic feels lived-in and uniquely personal. By following these guidelines, the coastal charm trend can be transformed into an enduring and elegant home design. #CoastalCharm #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorStyling #TimelessDesign #ColorPalette #NaturalMaterials #MarineMotifs #SubtleStripes #VintageFinds

Newport, Rhode Island, is characterized by its historical charm and coastal elegance, and its interior design trends reflect a blend of traditional styles with modern influences. According to designer Melissa Breen, these trends emphasize creating spaces that honor the city's rich heritage while incorporating contemporary functionality and aesthetic preferences. The approach to design in Newport often balances timeless sophistication with current-day living needs, making homes both beautiful and practical. Coastal Chic is a prominent trend, maintaining its popularity due to Newport's proximity to the ocean. This style favors light and airy spaces, utilizing a color palette of soft blues, whites, and sandy neutrals. Natural materials such as rattan, rope, and weathered wood are frequently incorporated to achieve a relaxed, beachy ambiance, evoking the tranquility and natural beauty of the seaside environment. This trend underscores a connection to the natural surroundings and a desire for serene living spaces. Nautical Accents are another key element, paying homage to Newport's extensive seafaring history. This includes the use of maritime motifs and ship-inspired decor. Examples range from classic navy stripes and anchor prints to more intricate details like brass porthole mirrors and rope accents. These elements infuse spaces with a distinctive maritime charm, linking the interior design directly to the city's identity as a historic port. Classic Elegance draws inspiration from Newport's grand estates and historic mansions. This trend focuses on timeless design elements that recall the sophistication of the Gilded Age. Melissa Breen suggests incorporating slightly oversized chandeliers, detailed crown molding, and antique furnishings. These features contribute to an atmosphere of refined luxury and historical grandeur, ensuring that interiors possess enduring appeal and a sense of history. Modern Farmhouse offers a contemporary interpretation of rustic aesthetics, blending clean lines with comforting accents. This style often features shiplap walls, rustic metal finishes, and farmhouse sinks, bringing a touch of rural charm into modern homes. It is best paired with a minimalist decor approach and can be subtly enhanced with nautical touches, creating a balanced look that is both inviting and stylish. Responsible Design highlights a growing commitment to eco-conscious living, particularly important in a coastal environment. This trend advocates for sustainable design practices, such as choosing locally sourced materials, utilizing reclaimed wood furniture, and installing energy-efficient appliances. Breen emphasizes selecting "forever pieces" and considering the environmental impact and origin of materials, promoting thoughtful consumption and long-lasting quality over transient trends. Indoor-Outdoor Living is essential in Newport, given its favorable climate and scenic beauty. This trend focuses on integrating outdoor spaces seamlessly with indoor living areas. Features like bi-fold doors, fully equipped outdoor kitchens, and comfortable seating arrangements enable residents to enjoy the natural environment year-round. This design approach maximizes living space and encourages a lifestyle that embraces the outdoors, blurring the lines between interior and exterior. Unexpected Patterns and Colors introduce a dynamic element to Newport's often traditional aesthetic. While muted tones and classic patterns are common, there is a rising appreciation for bolder, more expressive designs. This trend encourages experimenting with vibrant colors, graphic prints, and layered textures to inject personality and vitality into home decor, allowing for individual expression within a historically rich context. These trends collectively enable residents to create homes that not only reflect Newport's unique character but also meet modern demands for style and functionality. Multifunctional spaces, which adapt to various activities and needs, are also becoming a standard, especially in older homes with limited square footage. This involves flexible furniture and clever storage solutions to optimize space, enhancing both convenience and design versatility. Each trend contributes to a holistic design philosophy that respects Newport's past while looking towards its future. The combination of historical respect, natural inspiration, and modern practicality ensures homes are both comfortable and stylish. Newport's interior design scene continues to evolve, embracing new ideas while preserving its timeless appeal. The focus remains on creating curated, comfortable environments that are deeply connected to their unique location and heritage. The overall design ethos aims for a harmonious blend of old and new, ensuring every space tells a story while serving a purpose. Ultimately, these design philosophies coalesce to create residences that are distinctly Newport. They blend historical gravitas with a light, fresh coastal sensibility. The emphasis is on quality, sustainability, and thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor elements, reflecting a lifestyle that is both refined and connected to nature. The trends underscore a forward-thinking approach that maintains the charm of the past. The combination of these elements provides a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to capture the essence of Newport's design aesthetic. Melissa Breen's insights offer a valuable roadmap for achieving a home that is both historically resonant and functionally modern. It allows for personalized spaces that are a true reflection of the unique blend of tradition and contemporary living found in Newport, Rhode Island. #InteriorDesignTrends #NewportRhodeIsland #CoastalChic #NauticalAccents #ClassicElegance #ModernFarmhouse #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #HomeDecor

The Cape Cod aesthetic is gaining prominence as a stylish and serene modern coastal interior design trend. Inspired by the homes on the Massachusetts peninsula, this style offers a blend of traditional charm and contemporary coolness. Unlike the 'Coastal Grandmother' or Hamptons styles, Cape Cod design possesses distinct characteristics that set it apart. Brad Ramsey of Brad Ramsey Interiors emphasizes that modern coastal design aims to mimic natural outdoor elements like sun, sand, water, and driftwood, while maintaining clean lines in furniture without being cold or sleek. Following the popularity of the 'Coastal Grandmother' trend, which focused on a sophisticated, beachy lifestyle, the Cape Cod aesthetic emerges as a more refined alternative. It evokes images of windswept beaches and lighthouses, utilizing a seaside color palette that avoids being overly sentimental or 'twee.' This style is particularly appealing to those seeking a calming and tranquil home environment, and it effectively combines Scandinavian vibes with California beachy coolness. For minimalists, the all-white schemes of Cape Cod design are brought to life with subtle coastal colors. There are three main pillars that define the Cape Cod aesthetic. Firstly, a neutral color palette is fundamental. This includes bright whites, off-whites, and creams as the primary scheme, complemented by accents of muted blue and aqua. Designers caution against using overly bold colors that could overwhelm the other elements. Kristina Phillips Interior Design specifically mentions navy and sky blues as key colors, while Amanda Lantaz suggests incorporating more gold, honey, yellows, and greens for added creativity. Color is introduced not only through paint but also through decor such as blue and white porcelains, ceramic vases with chinoiserie details, or fresh hydrangeas. The style also encourages risk-taking with fabrics, patterns, and wallcoverings, utilizing lightweight linens, chintz, various stripes, and bold patterns, particularly in secondary residences. Secondly, the Cape Cod aesthetic emphasizes the use of textures inspired by its seaside location. This involves subtle nods to the beachy environment rather than overt nautical themes like ships in bottles. Materials such as wood, wicker, rattan, jute rugs, and sisal are crucial for flooring and furniture, creating a warm, comfortable, and welcoming space that embraces seaside charm and a relaxed ambiance. Kristina highlights grasscloth wallcovering and brass light fixtures as elements that connect the indoors to the outdoors. Finally, creating a space conducive to entertaining is a core aspect of the Cape Cod aesthetic. The architecture of Cape Cod homes typically features cottage-style elements like gables, shutters, and steeply pitched roofs designed for winter weather. Given that many are summer homes, their interiors are bright, open, and airy, prioritizing social gatherings. Amanda Lantaz notes that clients often host more guests in their summer homes, making functionality for entertaining paramount. This can be achieved by simple adjustments, such as rearranging living room furniture to create a more open feel or adding coffee and side tables to accommodate drinks during social events. The concept extends to a full turn-key experience for holiday homes, where designers furnish everything from furniture to personal care items. #CapeCodAesthetic #CoastalDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #NeutralColorPalette #NaturalTextures #EntertainingSpaces #ModernCoastal #DesignTips