Designing a coastal chic living room is a dream come true for anyone who craves a serene, breezy, and stylish space that reflects the beauty of the ocean.
As someone who has spent years experimenting with various interior design styles, I can confidently say that the coastal chic aesthetic is one of the most versatile and calming ways to transform your living room.
This style is not only about creating a relaxing atmosphere, but also about blending natural elements with refined elegance.
In this article, I’ll share my personal journey of creating the perfect coastal chic living room, provide insights on the top ten articles about this style, and explain how you can replicate the look in your own home.
Along the way, I’ll give you valuable tips and recommend products to bring the vision to life.
Plus, I’ll provide Amazon links to products I’ve used and loved, making it easier for you to shop for exactly what you need.
What is Coastal Chic Style?
Coastal chic style combines the relaxed charm of coastal living with sophisticated design elements that elevate the space.
Think of soft blues, crisp whites, sandy neutrals, and natural materials like rattan, wood, and linen.
This design style mirrors the calm, fresh feeling you get from being near the ocean.
The key to achieving a perfect coastal chic living room is balance—lightness and elegance, with natural textures that give the space a laid-back vibe.
Ultimate Coastal Chic Living Room Ideas
Step 1: Start with a Neutral Base
One of the first steps in creating a coastal chic living room is establishing a neutral base. I started by choosing soft whites, light grays, and beige tones for the walls and larger furniture pieces. These neutral colors set the stage for the natural, airy look that coastal chic is all about.
You’ll want to choose colors that mimic the natural beauty of the beach. Light, airy shades create a relaxed atmosphere while allowing you to incorporate pops of color through accessories like throw pillows and artwork.
To add some coastal vibes, I recommend a white slipcover sofa that is both stylish and practical. Here’s a product I highly recommend:
White Slipcover Sofa. It’s easy to clean, and the loose cover adds a relaxed, beachy vibe that fits perfectly with the coastal chic aesthetic.
Step 2: Add Natural Elements with Wood and Rattan
Rattan furniture and wooden accents are essential for a coastal chic living room.
These materials connect the space with the outdoors, evoking feelings of nature and simplicity.
For my coastal chic living room, I added a rattan coffee table and some wooden shelving to store my favorite books and decorative items.
If you’re looking to add a touch of rattan to your space, I recommend the Safavieh Home Collection Rattan Coffee Table.
It’s a great piece to anchor your living room while giving it an authentic coastal feel.
Step 3: Bring in the Blue Tones
Blue is synonymous with the ocean, so no coastal chic living room is complete without a few touches of this calming color.
I chose various shades of blue for throw pillows, rugs, and artwork to introduce depth into the space.
You can opt for navy blues for a more sophisticated look or go with soft pastels for a lighter, breezier feel.
For the perfect rug, try the nuLOOM Handwoven Tassel Area Rug.
It’s a lovely soft blue, adding a nautical touch without being overpowering.
Step 4: Incorporate Coastal-Inspired Artwork
Artwork plays a crucial role in any living room design, and coastal chic is no exception.
For my living room, I framed a few prints of ocean scenes and abstract art that reminded me of the beach.
The trick is to keep the artwork soft and simple, focusing on calm scenes like beaches, seascapes, and boats.
For an easy way to add art to your coastal chic living room, try this set of 3 coastal prints.
They’re beautifully designed with soft colors and natural themes, perfect for any beach-inspired space.
Step 5: Layer with Soft Textiles
Soft textiles like linen curtains, cotton throws, and cozy pillows are key components of a coastal chic living room.
I love layering different textures to create a feeling of warmth and comfort.
Linen is my go-to fabric for coastal chic, as it’s lightweight and breathable, just like the coastal breeze.
For your curtains, try these linen blend curtains. They allow light to filter in, giving your living room that breezy coastal feel.
Step 6: Use Light Fixtures that Reflect the Beach
Lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood in any room, and for a coastal chic living room, it’s important to use light fixtures that mimic natural light.
I opted for a driftwood chandelier, which complements the natural materials in the room.
The warm, soft glow it casts is perfect for creating a cozy, beach-inspired atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something similar, I recommend the Coastal Driftwood Chandelier on Amazon.
Step 7: Include Greenery and Plants
Another way to enhance the coastal chic style in your living room is by incorporating greenery.
I added a few potted plants, including a tall palm and a couple of succulents, which really bring the room to life.
Plants not only add a fresh touch to the space but also contribute to the overall natural vibe that’s so important in coastal design.
If you need a low-maintenance plant, try a faux palm tree. It’s perfect for creating the look of a tropical oasis without the hassle of watering.
Step 8: Mix and Match Vintage Finds
While the coastal chic style embraces simplicity, it also allows for a little fun with vintage décor.
I’ve found that mixing in some vintage pieces, like a weathered wooden clock or a wicker basket, adds character and charm to the space. These touches remind me of coastal cottages and beach houses, giving the room a lived-in feel.
If you’re looking for a vintage-inspired piece, consider adding this wicker basket to your living room.
It’s stylish and functional, perfect for storing blankets or magazines.
Step 9: Embrace Open Shelving for a Casual Look
In my coastal chic living room, I opted for open shelving to keep things casual and accessible.
It’s a great way to showcase your favorite books, seashell collections, and unique décor pieces.
The openness of the shelves also adds to the airy feel of the room, allowing the space to breathe.
For stylish and functional open shelving, check out this wooden floating shelf set. It’s a perfect way to showcase your coastal treasures in an elegant and organized way.
Step 10: Keep It Simple and Uncluttered
Finally, one of the most important aspects of creating a coastal chic living room is keeping things simple and uncluttered.
Coastal chic is all about a relaxed, easygoing vibe, so avoid overcrowding your space with too many accessories or overly elaborate designs.
Stick to the essentials—comfortable seating, natural materials, and a few key décor pieces—and your living room will instantly feel like a beachy retreat.
Step 11: Add a Touch of Metallic Accents
Although coastal chic is all about natural elements, adding a few metallic touches can give your living room an elegant edge.
I introduced some subtle gold and silver accents through picture frames, lighting fixtures, and small décor items.
The metallics complement the soft tones of the room and make it feel more polished.
Check out this gold picture frame set to add a sophisticated touch to your coastal space.
Step 12: Create a Focal Point with a Statement Mirror
Mirrors can make a small living room appear larger and reflect the natural light, enhancing the beachy vibe.
I added a large round mirror above my fireplace to create a focal point.
The round shape mimics the fluidity of the ocean and adds a calming element to the room.
If you’re looking for the perfect mirror for your space, check out this round mirror on Amazon.
Step 13: Incorporate Nautical Accents
Small nautical accents can reinforce the coastal theme in your living room.
I added a few subtle nautical items, like wooden anchors and rope lamps.
These elements bring the essence of the seaside into the room without overwhelming the overall aesthetic.
Take a look at this nautical anchor décor piece available on Amazon.
Step 14: Use Natural Fiber Rugs for Texture
Natural fiber rugs are perfect for adding texture to a coastal chic living room.
I chose a jute rug for its earthy texture and neutral color.
It helps ground the space and enhances the natural aesthetic of the room.
You can also experiment with woven rugs made from other natural fibers like sisal or seagrass.
I recommend this jute rug to enhance aesthetic of your space.
Step 15: Utilize Comfortable and Stylish Throw Blankets
Throw blankets are an easy way to add warmth and texture to your living room.
I love using soft, chunky knit blankets that bring both comfort and style to my coastal chic living room.
A few strategically placed throws can also add an extra layer of color or pattern to balance out the neutral tones.
Check out this cozy knit throw blanket stylish coastal look.
Step 16: Opt for Relaxed and Inviting Seating
Seating is crucial for creating a welcoming and comfortable coastal chic living room.
Choose furniture that is both stylish and practical, like oversized armchairs or sectionals with soft cushions.
For a coastal look, try to find pieces with clean lines and neutral colors.
I love this sectional sofa for an inviting and relaxed seating option.
Step 17: Choose Statement Lighting Fixtures
Lighting is one of the easiest ways to make a coastal chic living room stand out.
I recommend using statement lighting pieces such as pendant lights or chandeliers that mimic the natural, beachy aesthetic.
Look for lights made from materials like wood or glass to keep the look organic and timeless.
Here’s a beautiful beach-style chandelier that I recommend which will never disappoint you.
Step 18: Personalize with Collections of Seashells or Driftwood
Seashells and driftwood are quintessential coastal elements, and they can add a personal touch to your living room.
I’ve displayed my collection of shells in glass vases and used driftwood to create unique wall art.
These items bring the beach into your home in an authentic way.
For a beautiful display, check out this glass vase for seashells on Amazon:
Glass Vase for Seashells on Amazon.
Step 19: Create a Relaxing Lounge Area
A cozy lounge area is essential for a coastal chic living room, and adding a few comfortable chairs or bean bags can help make the space feel like a personal retreat.
I added some cozy seating near the window, where I can relax and enjoy the view.
Check out this bean bag on Amazon for the perfect lounge addition to your coastal chic living room:
Final Thoughts on Creating a Coastal Chic Living Room
The journey to designing my coastal chic living room has been one of the most enjoyable experiences.
By focusing on natural materials, soft color palettes, and coastal-inspired accents, I was able to create a space that feels both serene and stylish.
Whether you’re looking to give your living room a complete makeover or just add a few beachy touches, the coastal chic style is a timeless choice that will never go out of fashion.
Remember, the key is to balance simplicity and elegance, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures, colors, and materials.
And, as I’ve shared throughout this article, the right products can make a huge difference in achieving the perfect coastal chic look.
Happy decorating!