Breezy Coastal Decorating

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Coastal decorating isn't just for those living at the shore-line or along a large lake. Designing for beach-type spaces livens up ones thoughts and has the potential to awaken the decorating juices that lie dormant in most people. Beach style doesn’t necessarily mean being totally light and airy but it also does not mean dark and leathery.

Light and flowing

Take a cue from a nice summer breeze. The breeze is so nice that stopping it within the space is a “no-no.” Leave the windows open. Use materials that flow like the air. A drape that can be caught by the breeze and ruffled in the wind is good example. Sheer fabrics work well for this idea.

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A light boat with an anchor

Using coastal decorating ideas demands a bit of a nautical metaphor. In this instance, try using light colors in the room with something that is darker and heavier as an anchor. The anchor might be a table or thin legged desk placed away from the main space. You could even place corals or beautiful shells on a side table. Essentially, this lets the room feel light but doesn’t let it appear to float away.

Accessories

Use accessories you'd find at the beach like baskets of seashells. A statue of a weathered wooden light house makes a good focal point for a room.

Outside in

In most situations, integrating the outside with the inside is a primary goal. If a deck or patio constitutes the outdoor space try using the colors of the interior on an umbrella or cushions located on the patio or deck. This is one of the easiest and cost effective ways of developing a unified project.

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Breathe it in

When considering coastal decorating ideas think about taking in a big beep breath of fresh air and holding it in. When you let the fresh coastal air out what would you rather see? Think in this way and a perfect coastal retreat is waiting for you.