Like many styles, coastal decor can take on a variety of different looks. The first thought that springs to most people’s minds when they hear “coastal design” are things like seaside motifs, bright colors, and beachy textures. While all of these elements definitely help capture the coastal feel, it can be very easy to go overboard with the theme.

Homes with a very strong coastal theme can be adorable and done very well, but what if you want to capture the feeling of being near the ocean without it being so obvious?

Coastal style can be elegant and understated when you focus more on the essence of the ocean rather than literal interpretations of it. It’s all about choosing the right colors, textures, and smart accents to bring the flavor of the coast into your home in a chic, sophisticated way.

Check out these 10 rooms that offer some understated coastal design ideas.

Elegant Coastal Design Ideas

There isn’t a single seashell or fish motif in this room, but it completely embodies the feeling of the coast with its clean palette and relaxed vibe.
Source: My Domaine

A really fun black and white mural offers a contemporary coastal touch to this gorgeous living room.
Source: HGTV

This space is very modern, but the hints of natural textures and that wonderful driftwood light fixture give it a touch of coastal appeal.
Source: Coastal Living

Soft blue accents against a neutral palette is a great go-to for a sophisticated, coastal space.
Source: Queensland Homes

The minty blue accents are at work again in this kitchen, this time with a brighter tone to give it a more playful sensibility.
Source: My Domaine

Rich, warm colors aren’t what you would immediately associate with the coast, but when you pair them with a white backdrop they can be transformed to feel more fresh and open.
Source: Architectural Digest

This space is so clean and open, completely capturing the airy feel of being by the ocean. They did this with the soft blue walls, white accents, and few pops of natural color in the green foliage and charming orange door.
Source: HGTV

Even a vintage look can be made to feel coastal with an airy, neutral palette and accents that match the color of the ocean.
Source: Veranda

The gorgeous wood accents in this kitchen have the right tone to fit a coastal vibe.
Source: Style At Home

A driftwood-inspired wallpaper brings some lovely texture to this vignette. The soft green accents are a nice alternative to blue if you want something a little different while still incorporating coastal style.
Source: House of Turquoise

I hope these ideas have opened up what you see as possible for coastal design.

Warm regards,
Megan