You don’t have to live by the beach to create a light and airy home reminiscent of summer sea breezes. Coastal decor echoes all of the elements of seaside living, without being tacky or kitschy. Natural light, raw materials, and a soft, neutral color palette can bring a touch of the sea to your home – no matter where you live.

The key to achieving a coastal design is your color palette, which should echo the natural tones of sand and sea. Think neutral whites, creams, and sandy tones alongside soft shades of blue and green.

When choosing furniture, opt for natural materials in light finishes. Rattan, bamboo, cane, and blond wood are the favorable choices for achieving a light and breezy coastal aesthetic.

Natural materials like seagrass and bamboo also shine through in decorative accessories throughout the home. For a classy coastal look, avoid overt seaside references like anchors and seashells, and opt for items like woven baskets, boho mirrors, blue glass vases, and jute rugs.

Bring a little bit of nature inside with some plants that echo seaside locations. Small palms, aloe veras, and other succulents give off a beachy look, especially when potted in woven baskets or sea-toned ceramic vases.

Dried flowers and grasses can give an elegant and modern feeling to a coastal design. Long stems in neutral tones sit beautifully in vases to fill an awkward corner or adorn a side table or windowsill. Pampas grass, in particular, will exude that bright and airy seaside aesthetic.

Shiplap wall paneling is a nice way to give a gentle nod to nautical living without being tacky or overbearing. Too much shiplap can make a room feel smaller, so opt for an accent wall to create this look without infringing on your bright and airy space.