Many of us harbour a life long dream of owning a beach house.
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Some like the idea of a sleek, contemporary mansion while others fantasise about a cute cottage by the sea complete with a little goat track straight to the beach.
Whatever your dream, there is a way to bring the water to you.
Coastal chic is a design movement that focuses on bringing the sights, sounds and atmosphere of the ocean into your home. There are a few simple ways you can introduce this look to your home.
Beachy motifs
Look for homewares with ocean motifs. Choose from lamps with rope stands, packets of shells to fill hurricane vases with, still life starfish or coral as well as blue and white coloured cushions. All these little touches will bring the ocean into your home.
Pair them with a pacific palette of blue, green and white and your home will start to look more beach-like.
Tropical style
Choose furniture that reflects a hot, tropical style. Rattan, cane, dark timber and white painted furniture all work well.
Use dark timber on floors only and keep everything above floor level white.
This reflects the look of the sandy beach and the massive cloud filled skies you find in tropical areas.
Add a few green plants and you’ll have the tropical look nailed.
White on white on white
It’s important you like white as this will be the main colour of your scheme.
Use it to paint your walls and your furniture.
Don’t forget the window trims and skirting boards – heavy timber in these places will darken the scheme and take away the coastal vibe.
Soaring architecture
One of the most drool-worthy aspects of coastal homes is the sense of space. Many homes with sea views have soaring ceilings and floor to ceiling windows. Your view may not be as spectacular but you can borrow the look by planning larger windows in your renovation.
You could also consider peek-a-boo windows above doors and windows to let in more light. White walls will help reflect the light and bring in an airy feel.
Keep it casual
The coastal look is not just about what you put in your home. It’s about a feeling.
The coastal look is about escaping to somewhere where time stills and schedules disappear.
Your decor should look relaxed and homely, so avoid grouping in traditional pairs and try using groups of three to keep things looking relaxed.
Use fun family photos and quirky souvenirs of the beach to keep the look light and fun.