Coastal Interior Design: Bringing the Beach Into Your Home

Here in Myrtle Beach, SC, the coastal lifestyle – from beach days to salty breezes to fresh seafood – is part of who we are. It also happens to be a fresh and modern interior design aesthetic that we wholeheartedly embrace and help our homeowners create. 

Coastal interior design is achieved by incorporating elements, materials, and colors from the seaside into your home. With shades of blues and greens, natural materials such as driftwood, hemp rope, and seashells, and light and airy fabrics like cotton and linen, the effect is calming and peaceful. 

Here are a few coastal decorating ideas to enjoy a unique vibe in your home, no matter where you live. 

Coastal Decorating Ideas to Transform Your Home

Use a Soft, Coastal Color Palette

Think of the beach and how all the colors naturally complement one another (nature is wonderful like that, isn't it?). Try to mimic that same color palette at home. You may start with a soft white or sandy beige for your largest spaces, like the walls, cabinets, and curtains, then bring in accent colors that you would find in the ocean — aquas, soft blues, and seafoam greens. Layer various hues of the same color (even white) to create interest and mimic the fluid movement of the shore. Colors should always be soft and natural.

Bring in Natural Materials

Bring in materials like driftwood for accent pieces. As for curtains and furniture, keep the material soft and light for an organic feel. White gauze or linen drapes billowing behind a smooth, cotton-upholstered couch will beckon you to sit down and take a rest, just like the beach does. For tables, painted wood, glass, or rattan work best, and cotton or jute rugs will complete the space.

Embrace Light and Airy Spaces

Beach home interior design emphasizes simplicity and minimalism while incorporating materials like wood, stone, and linen to create a light and cool ambiance. Keep spaces as open and uncluttered as possible to recreate the depth of space you feel at the beach. Maximize natural light with sheer curtains and open layouts. Maintain an airy feel with neutral tones. 

Layer Textures and Patterns

Comfortable and relaxed, coastal home interior design invites you to unwind and put your feet up. For upholstery, consider neutral color performance fabrics or slipcovers. Then, layer on soft throws, woven rugs, and subtle nautical patterns like stripes. Other beach home ideas include the textures of natural fibers like jute, seagrass, or sisal. Incorporating woven materials connects the indoors with the outdoors. Try a natural fiber rug, which is super-durable and works great in virtually any space. (It’s also easy to clean and ideal for layering.) 

Add Subtle Beach Accents

It can be easy to get carried away with tchotchkes in the shape of shells and sea animals, but try not to take the concept too literally. Accents can be items you find on the beach, such as a piece of coral or iridescent shells. Incorporate coastal artwork and ocean-inspired ceramics, or even hang straw hats on the wall (then grab and go as you head to the beach). A more nautical theme might include brass ship's bells, captain's wheels, colorful signal flags or boat oars.

Keep It Casual and Comfortable

Choose relaxed, cozy furniture, and avoid over-styling for a laid-back vibe. Nothing should be too matchy, precious, or delicate. Everything should be washable, flexible, or comfortable. Think slipcovers, recycled materials, and vintage hand-me-downs. Decorating by way of flea markets, yard sales, and secondhand shops is a great way to create a casual “collected-over-time” look. 

Integrate Indoor-Outdoor Living

To create a classic coastal vibe, large windows, sliding glass doors, and outdoor seating areas visually blend indoor and outdoor spaces. Outdoor living spaces get tons of use during good weather, so creating a place as welcoming as the interior spaces is crucial. Mimicking the color or style of the interior helps create a cohesive feel. Décor typically used inside, like rugs and hanging artwork, gives outdoor spaces definition. Curtains and ceiling fans are great additions to covered porches and decks, while wicker furniture with colorful cushions adds just the right touch of coziness. 

Floor Plans Designed for Coastal Living. When it comes to building your dream home in Myrtle Beach, floor plans designed for coastal living will include these key elements: 

• Open-Concept Layouts – These plans emphasize spacious, flowing interiors that connect living, dining, and kitchen areas for a more open feel. This design allows for better ventilation and maximizes views of the surrounding landscape​. 

• Large Windows & Glass Doors – Floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors are common to bring in ample natural light and provide unobstructed views. 

• Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces – Most coastal homes have covered porches, screened-in patios, or expansive decks to encourage outdoor living. Some even integrate outdoor kitchens and lounge areas to take advantage of mild climates​.

• Elevated Designs for Flood Protection – Coastal homes often incorporate raised foundations, such as pilings or stilts, to protect against flooding while creating additional outdoor living or storage space underneath.

Smart and Durable Features. When designing your home in Myrtle Beach, incorporating smart and durable features is essential to withstand the coastal climate.

• High-Performance Windows & Doors – Coastal homes benefit from impact-resistant, energy-efficient windows and doors that reduce heat transfer and withstand strong winds.

• Smart HVAC Systems – Use programmable thermostats and energy-efficient HVAC systems to maintain comfortable temperatures while reducing energy consumption.

• Durable Building Materials – Coastal homes constructed with materials like fiber cement siding and treated wood can better withstand salt air and high humidity.

• Hurricane-resistant Roofing – Metal or specially designed asphalt shingles help protect homes from strong winds.

Build Your Coastal Home with Dream Finders Homes

If you love the coastal look and are searching for a new home near Myrtle Beach, SC, check out Dream Finders’ communities and quick move-in homes for sea-worthy inspiration. Schedule an appointment to see for yourself.