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DESIGN 101
Earthy & Chic Modern Coastal Ideas for Every Room
Universal Furniture
Universal Furniture
A subtler interpretation of coastal style, modern coastal is not quite as prescriptive or literal as seashells and anchor-print wallpaper. Instead, say hello to elegant and soulful details like a color palette based on dark, stormy seas, and touches of organic materials like weathered wood and woven jute. This style is all about evoking the mood of the ocean — breezy, peaceful, and, at times, mysterious. It’s a versatile vibe that can work in almost every space in the home, from a modern coast living room to bedroom to dining room.
If you’re ready to dive in, pun intended, here are room-by-room styling tips to bring your modern coastal vision to life:
Modern Coastal Living Room
Sculptural modern furniture
Put the “modern” in modern coastal with dramatic silhouettes. Hallmarks of mid century modern design include tapered wood legs or a shapely frame, from curved sofas and sectionals to kidney-shaped coffee tables. Like pebbles sanded down by the tide, such rounded forms are not only exquisitely crafted, but they also evoke the serene and calming beauty found in nature.
Light wood tones
There’s nothing like wood furniture and flooring — even in pale tones — to instantly add warmth to any space. Because of the cool seaside colors saturating modern coastal rooms, adding back a layer of coziness is essential in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Consider styling your living room with wood elements like coffee tables, end and side tables, and consoles.
Lived-in upholstery
As much as we love sumptuous velvet and wool, a modern coastal living room is not the place for such formal fabrics. Instead, lean on lightweight cotton or linen to create a casual and summery feel. Another great option is indoor/outdoor sofas and sectionals, as well as performance fabrics that tend to have a breezy woven look. For a more refined yet relaxed feel, consider worn-in, slouchy leather seats. Leather marries the quintessential comfort of coastal style with the elegance of modern style.
High-contrast light fixtures
Matte black is a color that is used sparingly but to great effect in modern coastal style. It tends to really cut through the sea of muted and nature-inspired hues. Call attention to the modern lines of your pendant or chandelier by choosing one in dark metal or iron, creating the ultimate focal point for your living room.
Lowkey nautical decor
Instead of a literal reference to the shore, from salvaged sea glass and seashells, consider a more abstract and modern decor. We love contemporary paintings that allude to the moody colors and movement of the sea. Or layer in throw blankets, decorative pillows, and rugs for a subtle touch of blue hues and striped patterns — both essential features of coastal style.
Modern Coastal Bedroom
Calming shades of blue
From the walls to the bedscape, it’s time to paint a soothing picture. Instead of relying on something like bright cobalt blue, dial it back with inky midnight navy and pastel blue to create a tranquil mood that’ll promote sleep and rest. Plus, layering in different shades create depth and visual interest. After all, the ocean is never just one shade of blue.
Breezy linens
Breathable fabrics are always in — but they work harder than ever in a modern coastal bedroom. Rely on cottons and linens for a soft and organic feel that’ll also keep you cool throughout the night. Beyond sheets and blankets, consider adding gauzy drapes that add a dreamy and ethereal element to the room. Hang it by the window so it can gently sway in the breeze or drape it over your canopy bed for a cozy and romantic vibe.
Earthy textures
There’s something above roughhewn materials that evoke the ruggedness of a windswept beach. Add some nature-inspired drama to your bedroom — currently swathed in soft linens and soothing blues — with woven baskets, cane chairs, and rattan lampshades. Or consider stone vases and decor to add a calming and earthy presence that grounds your modern coastal bedroom.
Weathered wood
Speaking of earthy textures, don’t forget one of the mainstays of coastal style: weathered wood. This imperfect finish can keep your modern coastal bedroom from looking too modern and sterile. Rely on this driftwood vibe when furnishing your room, from your bedframe to the nightstands. It’s an ideal way to celebrate a bit of natural charm without crossing into an overly rugged and unkempt look.
Lounge chair or bench
A bedroom is made for rest and relaxation, making it the perfect pairing with coastal style. If you’re looking for a lounging spot to spend some leisurely time, either to read a book during the day or to decompress before bedtime, consider adding some seating. We recommend an upholstered chair or chaise for plush comfort or a woven cane bench or rattan accent chair for more of a beachy outdoor vibe.
Modern Coastal Dining Room
Wood dining set
For a dose of rustic charm, look no further than inspiration from the cottagecore style. Set the foundation of your modern coastal dining room with a large wood dining table — a weathered wood design for a more coastal vibe, or a sleek and rich-toned one for a more modern take. For seating, we love a combination of classic Windsor chairs, wood benches, and more. A mix-and-match seating arrangement creates a timeless and relaxed look that’s not too stiff and formal.
Unadorned, high-quality dinnerware
As you’ve noticed, modern coastal style is not about the glitz and glam. Similarly, the perfect table setting for this style features rustic glassware and monochrome dinnerware. This minimalist look lets you focus on the feel, quality, and texture of each object, highlighting its beautiful materials and design instead of drawing the eye to bright colors or loud patterns. When it comes to plates, bowls, and cups, the simpler the better.
Organic overhead light
Looking to add a touch of natural woven materials for a summery beach look? Just look up for your lightbulb moment. A statement rattan pendant goes a long way in adding boho flair to a formal dining room. For a more modern take, hang a delicate orb-shaped paper lamp to create a similar atmosphere that leans a bit more into the style’s modern roots.
Floating shelves
To add a bit more personality to your modern coastal dining room, it’s time to hang some floating shelves. It’s the easiest way to display a bit of decor, including eclectic tchotchkes and souvenirs that can lead to fun dinner party conversations. We recommend choosing wood floating shelves to match the modern coastal aesthetic, while styling your shelves with enough white space to avoid looking cramped or cluttered.
Muted and minimalist table decor
Last but not least, it’s time to complete your tablescape in a modern coastal way. Instead of big bouquets and statement centerpieces, keep things grounded and serene with seemingly simple objects made of natural materials. We’ve been inspired by small vases and decorative bowls made of stone or glass, as well as black metal candle holders. To add a bit of whimsy, consider plopping a few wildflowers into your vase for a minimalist arrangement.
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