How to Achieve a Cool Coastal Vibe at Home

Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at ILIV, shares her expert tips on creating a calming coastal vibe at home, plus the latest Summer micro-trends to keep your interiors fresh and on-trend.

Creating a coastal-inspired interior is all about capturing the soothing essence of the seaside in your living space. To achieve this, focus on soft furnishings that evoke a relaxed coastal vibe. Start with a palette of serene blues, sandy neutrals, and crisp whites for your upholstery and cushions. Incorporate natural textures like jute rugs, seagrass baskets and driftwood accents to add an organic touch.

For your soft furnishings, think plush, oversized sofas and armchairs in comfortable, durable fabrics like linen or cotton. Layer them with an assortment of lightweight throws and cushions adorned with nautical motifs, stripes, or coral patterns to mimic the ocean's charm.

Complete the look with accessories such as seashell-filled decorative bowls, maritime-themed wall art and a touch of tropical greenery. The key is to strike a balance between comfort and coastal aesthetics, creating a space where relaxation and beachy ambiance effortlessly coexist.

On Trend: The Fisherman Aesthetic

The fisherman aesthetic originates from the practical, rustic lifestyle of coastal communities, where functionality meets simplicity. It’s rooted in a connection to nature and the sea, with its raw materials and weathered finishes evoking a sense of timelessness. In design, it signifies a return to authenticity and sustainability, celebrating the beauty of imperfections. 

Moving forward, I see this aesthetic evolving with a modern twist, blending eco-conscious materials and cleaner lines while keeping that sense of warmth, comfort and coastal charm. It’s a style that’s sure to remain relevant as we seek more meaningful, grounded spaces.

On Trend: Coastal Cowboy

The Coastal Cowboy Interiors Trend is a style of interior design that combines elements of coastal and western decor. It is characterised by a mix of natural materials, such as wood, jute, and rattan, with rustic accents, like leather and cowhide. The look is often completed with a neutral colour palette and pops of bright colours, such as turquoise and coral.

To achieve the coastal cowboy look in your own home, try incorporating natural materials such as wood, jute, and rattan into your décor. Choose a neutral colour palette and then add in pops of soft blues and greens for example in soft furnishings, to evoke a coastal feel. Look for fabrics with a southwestern pattern, such as Navajo prints, or fabrics with a beachy feel, such as stripes or seascapes. Rustic furniture pieces work well such as a weathered wood coffee table.