Coastal Calm: Bring Australian Summer Into Your Home All Year Round
Australia’s love for coastal living runs deep, from the sun-drenched serenity of Byron Bay to the breezy charm of Bondi. But you don’t have to live by the ocean to enjoy the laid-back warmth and timeless elegance of coastal style.
Whether you’re in a city apartment or a suburban home, you can capture that Australian summer feeling all year round with the right furniture and styling choices. Here's how to infuse Coastal Calm into your space using pieces that echo nature, light, and effortless style.
1. Create a Light and Airy Foundation
Start with a neutral palette that mimics sea, sand, and sky: think warm whites, soft beiges, driftwood greys, and pale blue-grey tones. These shades brighten spaces and reflect light beautifully, especially when paired with light oak furniture or white-wash finishes.
Expert Insight:
Ausmar Homes calls out coastal style as a trend for 2024–25, encouraging light, airy color schemes and materials like rattan, bamboo, and oak to evoke beachside calm.
2. Add Warmth with Layers & Texture
Texture equals warmth in coastal interiors. Incorporate: Rattan or cane accent chairs and storage baskets, Linen cushions and throws, and Jute or flat-woven rugs. Rattan adds airy structure without heaviness; linen feels relaxed and temperature-balanced, perfect for Australian summers.
According to Better Homes & Gardens, layered textiles paired with blue or sandy tones create a welcoming coastal vibe in living rooms.
3. Accent with Softer Coastal Colors
Instead of bold blues, choose muted tones inspired by the coast: green-grey (sea glass), dusty blue, sage, or soft coral. These accents feel elevated and calming, and they align with 2025 interior trends favoring muted earthy hues.
Shangri-La ideas:
- Seafoam throw pillows or a pale blue votive
- Coral-toned ceramic décor
- Sage-green linen bedding or cushions
- Skip saturated navy or bold prints, coastal style thrives on muted color accents that
4. Choose Furniture That Feels Light & Thoughtful
Coastal-style interiors feel uncluttered and intentional. Prioritize light, functional furniture: Slim TV units or sideboards with storage Low-profile bed frames. Rounded “coastal curves” like small accent chairs or nesting tables, organic silhouettes are trending in 2025.
Design outlets like The Spruce highlight clean lines, smooth curves, and light wood finishes in coastal interiors. These shapes invite calm while feeling modern and spacious
5. Soft Lighting & Loose Layers for Mood
In coastal-style homes, mood is everything. It's not just about the look - it's about how the space feels at any time of day. Light, air, and softness all play their part in creating a home that calms you the moment you walk in.
Natural light is critical. Use sheer linen curtains to allow sunlight to softly filter through. Add softness with ambient lighting: Floor lamps with cane or wicker shades or Linen throws and soft textured rugs.
Southern Living reinforces the use of natural texture and layered fabrics for inviting interiors resembling a beach escape.
6. Decorate with Natural Elements & Minimal Detail
Finish the look with subtle decor: driftwood trays, sea glass vessels, woven baskets, or indoor plants. These elements connect with nature without overwhelming the aesthetic.
The Spruce recommends avoiding overly nautical accessories like anchors or stripes—coastal design should be refined and modern. Invoking nature and simplicity enhances a timeless coastal feel that’s neither overly themed nor cliché.
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