Embracing Timeless Coastal Style: Decorating with Blue and White
Posted by Caron on Jul 23, 2024
Decorating a beach home with blue and white creates a serene, inviting atmosphere that mirrors the natural beauty of the ocean. This classic color combination evokes feelings of tranquility, freshness, and coastal elegance. Here are a few ideas on how you can transform your beach home using blue and white decor!
1. Start with Natural Materials as a backdrop
Natural materials complement the blue and white color scheme and enhance the coastal vibe:
- Wood: Opt for light-colored or whitewashed wood furniture and decor items.
- Wicker and Rattan: These natural materials add texture and a relaxed, beachy feel.
- Try a Woven Jute or Sisal Rug: There are fabulous options with stripes, colors and more!
- Don’t forget to use your favorite pieces of driftwood too.
2. Embrace Nautical Elements – without going overboard!
Nautical elements are a natural fit for a coastal decorated home. Try these ideas:
- Stripes: Use blue and white striped rugs, throw pillows, and curtains for a classic seaside look.
- Nautical Art: Hang artwork featuring sailboats, seashells, and ocean scenes in blue and white hues.
- Rope Accents: Integrate elegant rope details in decor items like mirrors, baskets, and light fixtures.
- Stay away from "kitschy" decor - you do not want your house to look like a gift shop! (seriously)
3. Incorporate Coastal Patterns
So many patterns to consider! Using coastal patterns that reflect your coast can add depth and interest to your beach home decor. Consider:
- Seashell and Coral Prints: These classic designs can be used on bedding, throw pillows, rugs or artwork.
- Wave and Water-Inspired Designs: Incorporate these patterns in rugs, curtains, or wallpaper. Perfect for modern contemporary spaces that need clean lines!
4. Create a Focal Point
Use blue and white to create a standout feature in the room. Ideas include:
- An Accent Wall: Paint one wall in a rich blue or use blue and white patterned wallpaper.
- A statement piece of furniture: A blue sofa, cabinet or a white bed frame with blue bedding can serve as your centerpieces
- Try an Art Gallery Wall: Arrange a collection of blue and white art or photos for a striking display. (we love this idea – check our Instant Galley Wall Art)
5. Mix Up Your Shades of Blue
Create a dynamic look by mixing different blue hues:
- Light Blues: Use sky blue, aqua, and teal for a light, breezy feel. Perfect with lighter fabrics in the summer
- Dark Blues: Incorporate navy and indigo for depth, drama and contrast. Try velvet or rich knits for fall and winter
6. Accessorize with Blue and White Accent Decor
Small accessories can make a big impact! Look for:
- Vases and Ceramics: Blue and white porcelain pieces add a classic touch.
- Decorative Pillows: My favorite EASY way to transform a space. Low cost, big reward
- Natural Sea Shell Collections - Edit your collection to reflect only the tumbled white shells or coral to keep your look clean and cohesive.
- Artwork: Blue and white paintings or prints can tie the room together. (always our go-to!)
- Try Books and Bookends: Stack your favorite coastal blue and white books on shelves or coffee tables for a sophisticated look. (let us know if you need some suggestions!)
7. Seasonal Updates
Blue and white is a versatile color scheme that works year-round to create a timeless coastal look! Just change up the fabrics and the blue tones.
- Spring & Summer: Use lighter fabrics like linen and cotton for a breezy feel.
- Fall & Winter: Introduce cozy textures like rich chunky knits, wool rugs and velvet fabrics in deeper blue tones
- So easy to switch out pillows and textiles to create a whole new look without a lot of cost!
Decorating a beach home with blue and white captures the tranquility and beauty of coastal living. By incorporating coastal elements, mixing different shades, and using various textures, you can create a space that feels both stylish and serene. Whether you’re decorating a small beach cottage or a grand seaside retreat, blue and white is a classic combination that brings timeless charm to any beach home!