Coastal Style Interiors: 5 Key Features of Modern Nautical Design

Today, coastal style is no longer a collection of obvious details like shells and nautical symbols. “A few years ago, it was too literal,” says Trish Becker of Trish Becker Design. She mentions elements like shell lamps, ship bells in the entryway, and a “captain’s office” in the home office.

But coastal style has been transformed. “The modern version is much more refined. It’s based on natural materials and colors inspired by nature,” she adds. Charleston-based designer Margaret Donaldson, founder of MDI Luxury Design, emphasizes that the mood created by such an interior is also important. “Light colors, natural textures - all these contribute to a calm and harmony, which is especially appreciated in our dynamic world,” she notes.
When creating a coastal-style interior, you should pay attention to the palette, materials, and even the principles of furnishing. Below, Becker and Donaldson share their tips — and shells are not a must.

1. Choose a palette inspired by the natural environment
Start with basic colors—like white walls that reflect light beautifully—and then add natural hues through decor, furniture, and art.
"It could be all the shades of green you see in a coconut grove, the various colors of the ocean, lavender horizons, the deep blue of the night sky, brown algae, gray-wood tones, pink seashells, oranges and reds of sunset or dawn," advises Becker.

2. Prefer natural materials

Coastal style in 2024 is a tactile aesthetic: jute, linen, cotton, rattan. Materials that are pleasant to see and touch. Their combination creates a feeling of simplicity and naturalness.
“The soft rug, rattan furniture, hand-printed cotton pillows, and bleached wood all convey the character of a coastal interior,” says Becker.
Rattan is a big part of the mix: chairs, tables, serving pieces, and decor. She recommends looking for vintage pieces that add depth and character without breaking the bank. “A rattan coat rack, coffee table, or dining chairs with interesting upholstery look great in any coastal space,” the designer adds.

3. Bring nature into your interior
“People are intuitively drawn to elements of coastal style because we all seek light, water, nature,” says Becker.
To enhance this feeling in the interior, use plants: potted palm trees or large-leafed greenery. This will not only add color, but also create a natural, refreshing atmosphere, hinting at the nautical origins of the style.

4. Symmetry as the basis of harmony
Lightness and balance are key to coastal architecture. “In the past, before electricity, symmetry in the layout allowed for natural ventilation—the wind would pass through the space and cool it,” Becker explains.
In such houses, large openings on both sides allowed air to circulate freely. This principle can be partially transferred to modern interiors.

5. Arrange furniture with space and air in mind
Even if you're not building a house from scratch, you can create breathing space with the right furniture placement.
"A modern coastal interior strives for openness, light, and air. Choose simple furniture with clean lines, arranged to encourage socializing and relaxation," says Donaldson.
The transparency of the layout and natural lighting make the atmosphere lighter and more comfortable - exactly what a coastal aesthetic should be.