'Coastal elegance' is the end-of-summer trend to know about – designer Kathy Kuo shares how she creates the effortless look

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

The coastal cowgirl aesthetic has emerged as a prominent trend for spring and summer 2023, widely popularized across social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram by influencers such as Paige Lorenze and Kaylee Rae. This style blends traditional coastal elements with Western-inspired pieces, creating a unique and appealing look. Initially embraced in fashion with items like white cowgirl boots, hats, and romantic dresses, the trend is now expanding into home decor. The coastal cowgirl aesthetic for interiors is characterized by a fresh take on coastal bohemian design, incorporating stronger Western influences. The color palette typically includes earth tones, light blues, denim hues, and various floral patterns. A key aspect of this aesthetic is the mix of textures and materials, featuring elements like linen, lace, cotton, wicker, rattan, leather, jute, and wood. This combination allows for a rich and varied tactile experience within the living space. Integrating the coastal cowgirl trend into an existing home decor can be achieved gradually, starting with a foundation of neutrals and wood tones. Accent pieces play a significant role in introducing the aesthetic without requiring a complete overhaul. Examples include throw pillows with denim or fringe details, and various cowboy-inspired accessories that add a playful touch. For those looking for a functional and decorative storage solution, a 'hat wall' can be created by spacing out hooks to display hats, turning them into a statement feature. The article provides specific recommendations for coastal cowgirl decor across different categories: wall art, general decor and accessories, pillows and bedding, and furniture. For wall art, suggestions include cowgirl art prints, digital art featuring cowgirl boots and rosé, wood wall mirrors, macrame hat holders, macrame woven cotton wall art, fringe wall mirrors, cactus prints, highland cow prints, and chevron wood art. These items collectively contribute to the thematic visual appeal. In the decor and accessories category, recommended items include white cowboy boot match holders, solid wood table vases, cotton macrame runners, woven table lamps, desert vases, cactus-shaped vases, macrame curtain panels, and various bohemian area rugs made of wool. These pieces help to layer in the distinct textures and motifs of the trend. For pillows and bedding, options range from blue and ivory fringe throw pillows, faux leather throw pillow covers, cowboy boot hook throw pillows, neutral pillow covers, embroidered throw pillows, Western boot throw pillows, handmade fringe throw blankets, colorblock quilts and shams, to organic cotton matelassé coverlets, providing comfort and style. Furniture selections suggested for the coastal cowgirl aesthetic include caned accent chairs, two-tiered wood coffee tables, rattan coffee tables, macrame boho stools, two-tone jute poufs, woven counter height barstools, acacia wood bar stools, and vegan leather sofas. These furniture pieces complement the overall design philosophy by bringing in natural materials, comfortable textures, and a blend of rustic and refined styles. The trend offers flexibility, allowing individuals to incorporate as much or as little of the aesthetic as desired, transforming their living spaces to reflect a blend of coastal and Western influences. #CoastalCowgirl #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #AestheticTrends #WesternStyle #BohemianDecor #SpringSummer2023 #DecorStyling

Designer Ashley Gilbreath tackled the challenges of decorating an open-concept coastal Florida home, focusing on creating a comfortable yet sophisticated space for a client who enjoys an elegant lifestyle but also desires a relaxed environment for her family, including children and grandchildren. The primary design challenge revolved around an awkwardly asymmetrical open floor plan that spanned from the beach-facing side to the entry. Gilbreath's solution involved a largely monochromatic blue and teal color palette, inspired by the ocean views, to unify the expansive space. Recognizing the potential for monotony with a single color scheme, she strategically incorporated diverse textures and historical elements to introduce visual interest. Examples include a wicker bench and table, found at Scott's in Atlanta, which lend a traditional coastal feel, alongside antique pieces from Gilbreath's own Parish Shoppe, and unique, unconventional art selections. A significant feature in addressing the home's elongated main wall was the installation of a vintage African textile, a piece Gilbreath had held in storage, waiting for the perfect application to break up the wall's continuous expanse. For spatial delineation within the open living and dining areas, Gilbreath employed an antique French shutter. Discovered during a shopping trip in France, these 8-foot shutters were cut in half by her cabinetmaker and reassembled into a screen. This element not only served as a unique room divider, circumventing the use of conventional fabric screens, but also contributed a distinctive teal color and antiqued texture that complemented the overall design. The resulting screen seamlessly integrates with both vintage items like the game table and wall hanging, and modern furniture such as the sofa behind it, providing visual segmentation without disrupting the harmonious flow of the open layout. In the bedrooms, the design strategy echoed that of the main living areas, utilizing ocean-inspired colors combined with carefully placed textures and subtle patterns. This consistent approach ensured that the entire home maintained a cohesive aesthetic, successfully blending elegance with practicality and comfort, and effectively managing the unique demands of an open-concept layout in a coastal setting. #CoastalHome #OpenConceptDesign #InteriorDesign #AshleyGilbreath #MonochromaticPalette #TexturalElements #VintageDecor #RoomDivider #FloridaDesign

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

Ariel Okin, principal designer at her eponymous New York firm and founder of Fenimore Lane, offers a glimpse into her current shopping cart, highlighting her favorite home decor items. This curated selection provides insights into her design aesthetic, which is described as Pinterest-board worthy. The article, published on June 6, 2025, focuses on her personal picks as she prepares for her annual Fenimore Lane Design Summit, scheduled for June 21 and 22 at the Mayflower Inn & Spa. Okin shares several items that reflect her taste for elegant, artisanal, and sometimes antique pieces. Her recommendations begin with the Corsica Tablecloth from Casa Bombón, a brand co-founded by Callan Connor, a former junior designer at Ariel Okin Interiors. This cotton duck canvas tablecloth, priced at $225, is admired for its aesthetic appeal and practical washability, making it suitable for summer entertaining. She also includes the Bevagna Mug from Il Buco Vita, a ceramic piece handmade and hand-painted by artisans associated with the New York restaurant and wine bar. These mugs, costing $38 each, along with tapered goblets from the same brand, are selected for enjoying both Ghia spritzes and Earl Grey tea. Another featured item is the Conanicut Coaster, Set of 4, from Doty Bennett, a tableware company started by her friend Ebbie Koelle Alpert and her sister. These coasters, priced at $110, are inspired by Florida shells and are noted for their chic color combinations, complementing the brand's wipeable placemats. Okin also expresses her appreciation for unique antiques, mentioning an 18th-century faience heater from Curio Shop, a New York-based antiques dealer. This piece, with its marbled pattern, costs $1,200 and was discovered through KRB NYC, another favorite shop of hers. From KRB NYC, Okin selects an 18th-century Italian Sofa, a marigold-upholstered, carved walnut piece priced at $8,900, emphasizing her admiration for the store's offerings. Her cart also includes the Piolo Bamboo Chair in cornflower blue from Sharland England, a homeware and furniture company founded by her friend Louise Roe, known for its wicker and rattan items. This chair is priced at $1,850. For hostess gifts, Okin recommends The Millbrook Gift Set from Kinderbrook Home, a new label by designer Brooke Kennan. The $375 set includes a handcrafted vase, two signature candles, and accessories. Finally, Okin highlights items from Cimelio Blu, her friend Deborah's new houseware line, which will also be present at the Design Summit. Her picks from this brand include the Amphora vase, Angelina linen napkins in blue and white, and a Grecian-inspired blue and white vessel, with the Amphora vase priced at $200. She also mentions the Pinot Napkin, Set of 4, from Pomegranate, noting her upcoming tabletop and houseware collection with the brand in September, and expresses her intent to purchase these block-printed napkins for her own entertaining needs. #ArielOkin #InteriorDesign #HomeAccessories #DesignTrends #FenimoreLane #Tableware #Antiques #SummerEntertaining

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 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

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

The "coastal cowgirl" aesthetic is emerging as a prominent interior design trend, blending elements of traditional coastal and rustic Western styles. This hybrid style is gaining traction across social media platforms like TikTok, where the hashtag #coastalcowgirl has amassed nearly 57 million views, featuring content spanning fashion, lifestyle, and interior decor. The trend essentially updates the "coastal grandmother" look with a distinct rustic influence, envisioning a design that marries the relaxed elegance of a Malibu beach house with the rugged charm of an equestrian estate. At its core, the coastal cowgirl trend embraces a fairly neutral color palette, serving as a backdrop for the incorporation of both Western motifs and beach-inspired decor. The style allows for significant flexibility, meaning enthusiasts can either strive for an even balance between coastal and rustic components or lean more heavily into one side. This adaptability ensures that the trend can be tailored to individual preferences, creating a laid-back and grounded atmosphere in any home. To effectively integrate the coastal cowgirl aesthetic, one can select specific details from each style. For coastal elements, popular choices include white linen bedding, rattan furniture, scalloped edges, seashell decor, and framed prints depicting beach scenes. These items evoke the light, airy, and serene ambiance associated with seaside living. Complementing these, rustic elements introduce a touch of warmth and ruggedness. Key rustic components include wood furniture, leather upholstery, animal prints, and iconic Western motifs such as cowboy boots, hats, horseshoes, and interstate signs. The combination of these seemingly disparate elements creates a cohesive and unique design. Individuals seeking inspiration for this trend can explore platforms like Pinterest and TikTok, where a plethora of ideas and visual examples are readily available. Design firms, such as Studio McGee, have also recognized and embraced this trend, even curating and spotlighting products from their own collections that align with the coastal cowgirl aesthetic. This indicates a growing mainstream acceptance and appreciation for the style. For those interested in incorporating this style into their homes, a range of accessories and furnishings are available that encapsulate the coastal cowgirl vibe. Examples include cowboy boot match sets, Hyannis linen shams, Lanston chairs, seashell accent lamps, faux cowhide rugs, scalloped bath mats, horse bookends, and bungalow wide dressers. These items illustrate how both subtle and prominent pieces can contribute to the overall theme, allowing for a complete transformation or simply a touch of the trend. The blend of textures, patterns, and themes inherent in coastal cowgirl design offers a fresh approach to interior decoration, inviting creativity and personal expression. #CoastalCowgirl #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #RusticDesign #CoastalDecor #DesignInspiration #HomeStyling #EclecticDecor #WesternMotifs

Coastal decor, inspired by water, sand, and beaches, offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere, irrespective of geographic location. This style frequently integrates water-inspired blues with crisp whites, creating an aesthetic that evokes seaside living. Key elements of coastal decor include the use of lightweight fabrics such as wovens or linen, which help to bring the outdoors inside a living space. Walls painted in hues like Nautica’s Beach House contribute to the overall ambiance, enhancing the connection to natural coastal environments. Nautical elements are often subtly woven into coastal decor, rather than being overtly displayed. Items like boat buoys can serve as playful accents without dominating the theme. Furnishings and decorative pieces are selected to complement this theme; for example, a blue washed driftwood mirror can enhance an entryway or bedroom, reflecting the organic textures found on a beach. Nautica's 'At Home' collection provides a range of paint colors, from ocean blues to coastal brights and sail-inspired whites, offering a comprehensive palette for this design style. Island coastal design represents a distinct variation, often incorporating more patterns and vibrant colors while maintaining a slightly formal tone. An example is a penthouse vignette in Grand Cayman Island, where designer Donna Brown uses a mostly neutral palette with subtle color infusions. Ceramics, such as Pewabic Pottery scarab paperweights, frequently feature various shades of blue, further solidifying the water theme. Rope accents, like those found on a Pier 1 Rope and Sea Glass Table Lamp, offer an additional subtle nautical touch, drawing inspiration from fishing floats. Textural elements are also crucial in coastal decor. Coral accents, such as a faux coral table lamp, introduce interesting textures and details to a room. Furniture like a glass-top cocktail table made of natural teak reinforces the organic, beach-inspired feel. Maintaining a clean and neutral color palette for the main elements, such as walls and larger furniture pieces, allows for the introduction of patterned accessories like oversized pillows, provided they blend harmoniously. Bedrooms often feature subdued blue check bedding, creating a soothing environment, with walls painted in colors like Sherwin-Williams' Sea Salt to complete the tranquil aesthetic. Small ceramic vases can add pops of blue, tying the entire scheme together. #CoastalDecor #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #NauticalElements #BeachHouseStyle #ColorPalette #FabricSelection #IslandCoastal

This article, part of the "SOURCEBOOK" column from ELLE DECOR, offers guidance on how to replicate the modern coastal aesthetic showcased in a featured interior design project. The focus is on a Sag Harbor retreat designed by James "Ford" Huniford, prominently featured in the summer issue of ELLE Decor. The design philosophy behind this project emphasizes restraint, texture, and a connection to natural elements, avoiding overt nautical themes in favor of a more subtle and sophisticated interpretation of coastal living. The house itself, constructed with glass, steel, and stone, exemplifies a balance between modernist architectural principles and a soulful, natural ambiance. Huniford's interior approach involves layering handmade objects and tactile finishes, such as cerused oak, barkskin, and parchment. This curated selection champions unique, idiosyncratic pieces over more conventional choices, aiming for an imaginative and unconventional design. The designer describes the home as a "personal cabinet of curiosities," where each item contributes to a rich, textured environment. The surrounding landscape heavily influences the material and object choices, particularly in areas like the bathroom, where handcrafted pieces are incorporated to enhance the tactile experience and visual connection to nature. To help readers achieve a similar modern coastal mood, the article presents a curated selection of refined, elemental, and enduring pieces. These include the sculptural Three Plane Chair by Campagna for Roll & Hill, which serves as a functional art object; Frida Fjellman's suspended glass installations, which add color and light; and Chris Bogia's Mandala - Sun wall sculpture, a vibrant piece crafted from lacquered wood and hand-dyed yarn. For bedroom furnishings, the Ligne Roset Dita Night Chest offers a minimalist and contemporary storage solution. The collection also features Paul Mathieu's Sarah Sofa, available through Ralph Pucci, known for its sculptural elegance and comfort derived from noble materials. Textile options include Orlando Diaz-Azcuy's Feather textile for Le Gracieux, which uses hand-printed indigo patterns on flax and hemp linen to evoke bird plumage, aligning with a beach-adjacent, modern feel. For travel and daily use, the Hermès Garden Party 49 Voyage Bag is highlighted for its playful sophistication and utility. Artistic rugs are represented by Elena Salmistraro's Mano I Carpet for Tai Ping, a sculptural floor piece featuring sinuous shapes in wool and silk. For cocktail enthusiasts, Sophie Lou Jacobsen’s Piano Cocktail Set for Coming Soon offers martini glasses with playful asymmetry and vibrant color combinations. Decorative fabrics like Eskayel’s Cherifia Fabric Karmouss introduce global influences with Moroccan-inspired painterly strokes on eco-friendly linen blends. Mirrors include the Roche Bobois Equinoxe Round Mirror by Elizabeth Leriche, which combines functionality with artistic flair through a rotating attachment and screen-printed motif. Finally, Barbara Nanning’s Verre Églomisé X is a sculptural glass vessel gilded with gold, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship. The article concludes by noting that this content originally appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of Elle Decor, encouraging readers to subscribe for more such insights. #ModernCoastalStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CuratedPicks #JamesFordHuniford #SagHarbor #TexturalDesign #ArtisanMade #LuxuryFurnishings

The popular romantic drama series, 'The Summer I Turned Pretty,' has significantly influenced interior design, particularly popularizing coastal decor. The show, which is currently in its third and final season, is a rich source of design inspiration, especially concerning cool color schemes. Throughout the series, the fictional town of Cousins and its infamous beach house showcase an abundance of blues, greens, and teals, seamlessly integrating these hues into various elements of the home. From the moment viewers are introduced to the beach house in season one, with its blue front door and dark green entryway, it becomes evident that these cool shades are central to establishing a coastal theme. Interior designers concur, recognizing the effectiveness of these colors in creating a serene and beach-inspired atmosphere. The article highlights that these cool tones are an excellent choice for almost any room in a house due to their inherently soothing qualities. Matthew Williamson, a renowned designer, emphasizes the importance of considering the desired emotional response when selecting a color for a space. He advises opting for cool tones, such as blues and greens, if the goal is to cultivate a calm and relaxed environment. He suggests incorporating additional shades that are similar to the chosen base color to furnish the room with larger items, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious design. While the series features a spectrum of cool tones, from deep, dark shades to light pastels, particular attention is given to turquoise, a color that skillfully blends both blue and green. Nina Lichtenstein, another expert designer, elaborates on the appeal of turquoise, describing it as a color that injects a sense of freshness into any home. She notes its ability to evoke feelings of serenity while simultaneously exuding vibrant energy. Lichtenstein points out that turquoise fosters a mood of creativity and comfort, whether utilized in indoor or outdoor settings. Furthermore, Lichtenstein explains that turquoise is highly versatile and can transform a space into an effortlessly stylish and welcoming one when paired with various elements. It complements neutrals, warm woods, and even striking contrasts like coral and gold, demonstrating its adaptability in diverse design palettes. The article also provides a 'cool tone edit,' featuring products inspired by 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' for readers looking to incorporate these design principles into their own homes. These include a shimmery light blue velvet pillow cover that can accent a chair or neutral sofa, charming gray-green ceramic pots for subtle color integration, and a rustic blue ceramic vase with handles, ideal for adding a floral flourish to a coffee table. These items are presented as accessible ways to embrace the blue and green color combination championed by the show and design experts alike. #CoastalDecor #ColorSchemes #InteriorDesign #CoolTones #BlueGreenPalette #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #TheSummerITurnedPretty

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

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 article presents 10 significant interior design trends predicted for summer 2025, identified by VERANDA editors after attending major design previews and markets in locations such as High Point, North Carolina, and Milan, Italy. These trends encompass various elements of home decor, including furniture, fabrics, and wallcoverings, highlighting a blend of historical influences and contemporary applications. Gold is re-emerging with designers integrating metallic hues through bold wallcoverings, glimmering tiles, gold rugs, and accessories. Examples include Peter Mikic's banana yellow and gold dining room at London's Wow!House, which offers a modern take on 1970s glam, and Laura Hammett's gilded bathroom, which draws on Art Deco and 1920s aesthetics. The versatility of gold allows for both dramatic statements and subtle accents. Flowering Branches Textiles and Wallpapers draw inspiration from antique aesthetics, such as old manor houses and castle tapestries. These designs feature intricate patterns of intertwining flowers, foliage, and birds, often with a silk-effect ground for a subtle shimmer. Notable examples include Manuel Canovas's Pavillon de Bidaine wallcovering and Thevenon's Rochecotte Brode fabric, which is based on an 18th-century Indienne fabric. Lacquer furniture is gaining prominence with its high-gloss finish, adding drama to any space. This technique, originating from the Silk Road, is seen as a timeless statement, especially with the resurgence of retro trends like 1970s silhouettes, Art Deco flair, and mid-century charm. Brands are embracing lacquer for its bold and beautiful characteristics. Bar Cabinets are making a significant comeback, evolving from quiet appearances to becoming a focal point. These pieces are designed with features such as leather and brass accents, backlit shelves, and built-in ice makers, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. For smaller spaces, bar trolleys and carts provide a charming alternative. Over-The-Top Palampore Textiles showcase large-scale tree-of-life patterns, reminiscent of ancient Indian bedcovers but adapted for modern interiors as sweeping, mural-like scenery. These textiles maintain traditional palettes of indigos, earthen reds, and browns. Designs range from large panel versions like Zoffany's Tree of Life fabric to more densely packed patterns and loosely reinterpreted scrolling designs like Lelievre's Eglantine fabric. Retro Finds highlight a broader revival of design elements from previous decades, including 1970s modular furniture, Art Deco geometric forms, and vintage-inspired mid-century pieces. This trend encourages a nostalgic mix of styles, integrating elements like lacquer to create unique and characterful interiors. Natural Materials are popular, with an emphasis on elements such as travertine, alabaster, burlwood, and tortoise shell accents. These materials introduce texture, richness, and an unexpected touch to spaces, creating layered and grounded environments when thoughtfully combined. Games Tables are experiencing increased demand due to the resurgence of game nights. These tables, available in various finishes like leather, glass, fabric, and wood, are designed to be both stylish and functional. Options include adaptable designs for senior living, such as those by Celerie Kemble for Woodbridge, and fully upholstered versions like Coley Home's Mia Game Table, which can also serve as side tables. Grand-Scale Fresco Textiles and Wallpapers feature large motifs inspired by Mughal miniatures and Indian architectural elements. Designs often incorporate Jali screens, Jharokha arches, and balustrades framing botanically rich patterns. Examples include de Gournay's hand-painted Jharokha Arches wallcovering and Cowtan & Tout's Jahan design, which takes inspiration from Mughal gardens. Interesting Inlay techniques are visible in case goods, ranging from traditional dining tables with sunburst-inspired inlays to contemporary pieces using new materials. Companies like Alfonso Marina are recognized for handmade furniture with intricate inlays, while Arteriors experiments with vintage brass pieces embedded in ash veneer, demonstrating craftsmanship and innovation in furniture design. #SummerDesignTrends #InteriorDecorating #HomeFurnishings #GoldAccents #FloralTextiles #LacquerFurniture #BarCabinets #PalamporeTextiles #RetroDesign #NaturalMaterials #GameTables #FrescoWallpapers #InlayTechniques