Coastal design is exactly what it sounds like: a design style that is all about that seaside aesthetic. This style isn’t reminiscent of an outdated beach house, however. In fact, with its casual vibe and natural elements, coastal style feels down-to-earth and lived-in while still looking put together. So, whether you have a beach cottage or just want a home reminiscent of the seaside, coastal style design is a beautiful solution. With soothing blue hues, beachy decor, natural fibers, and weathered wood furniture, coastal design is classically calming and beautiful.There are many ways to make a coastal-style space come to life. You can take a more subtle approach, simply weaving in a coastal color palette and materials. Or, you can adopt more of a theme for your space, with beachy art and decor. And then, of course, there are different styles of coastal design—the most notable being that laid-back, West Coast vibe or the more refined Nantucket look!Either way, a classic coastal space will have a color palette inspired by hues you’d find at the beach. So, you’ll find plenty of bright whites and warm, sandy neutrals, as well as a spectrum of blues and greens—and maybe even some earthy pinks and yellows. This color combination brings a serene touch to every coastal-style interior.One of our favorite aspects of coastal style is how approachable it is. This look is rooted in comfort, so opt for furniture that prioritizes that comfort and feels both durable and lived in. Coastal style often leans more toward traditional shapes, with rustic elements. So, when it comes to choosing foundational furniture throughout your home, steer away from overly modern lines. As for materials, we like wood that’s reminiscent of driftwood for coastal spaces—raw and unfinished, or with a sun-bleached or white-washed finished. Stay away from dark or high-gloss wood finishes, which add visual weight and formality. For a sofa, think an overstuffed number you can really sink into, topped with plenty of throw pillows. Or, for a more refined look, you could go for a white slipcovered sofa. In the dining room, opt for a big table in natural wood tones where the whole family can gather. And in bedrooms, consider a bed with caning elements or make of weathered woods. But, in any room, you’ll want to make sure to balance heavier furniture with lighter-weight accent pieces and that neutral color palette—because coastal design is all about an open, airy aesthetic. For other furniture and decorative accents, mix in other natural materials like linen, jute, rattan, roping, and other woven textures.Beyond furniture, decorative accents help this look really come to life. For a more thematic take, go for wall art featuring beachy or ocean-inspired designs—or perhaps some framed photos of your favorite warm-weather vacation. Alternately, you could opt for more abstract art that simply weaves in your coastal color palette. For other decor, we love touches of coastal design on your bookshelves and other surfaces—objects like a coral statue or bookends, decorative driftwood, or a bowl that looks like it’s covered in seashells. Just using one or two in your space will just hint at that coastal inspiration, or again, you can layer in more for a more obvious theme. Woven baskets, poufs and rugs in natural materials like jute and seagrass are also perfect with this style.And speaking of rugs—while jute rugs are a great choice in coastal spaces, if that’s not your style, you could also opt for a rug with a washed-out pattern of blues and greys, earth tones, or a solid-colored rug made in a chunky weave. Adding extra color or texture in your area rug will add some warmth to the bright and breezy elements in the rest of your space! When it comes to other upholstery, like drapes, bedding, or throw pillows, think soft and cozy, with plenty of natural fibers. For window coverings, specifically, go for something lightweight or even sheer for a breezy feeling and to let in as much natural light as possible!Coastal style offers a causal approachability that can’t be beat. It’s a great style for families or pet-owners, too, since coastal-style furniture can take a bit of a beating. If it gets a little worn or weathered from use, that’s ok! A little patina only adds to the organic coastal look.Ready to see this look come to life and get some inspiration for your own home? We’ve compiled all of our best coastal designs—so, start scrolling!