How To Decorate Coastal Farmhouse Style

Coastal farmhouse style blends the rustic charm of farmhouse aesthetics with the breezy, light feel of coastal living. This design approach creates a space that feels both relaxed and inviting, incorporating natural elements, a soft color palette, and a mix of textures.

Color Palette: The foundation of coastal farmhouse style lies in its color scheme. Soft, muted tones reminiscent of the beach and countryside dominate. Think whites, creams, and light grays as the primary backdrop. These neutral hues provide a sense of airiness and allow other elements to stand out. Subtle blues, greens, and beige can be incorporated as accent colors, echoing the colors of the sea and sand.

Natural Materials: Natural materials are key to achieving the coastal farmhouse look. Wood, particularly reclaimed or weathered wood, plays a significant role. This can be incorporated through flooring, furniture, wall paneling, or decorative accents. Wicker, rattan, and jute also contribute to the natural, textured aesthetic, adding warmth and visual interest.

Furniture Selection: Furniture choices should lean towards comfortable and functional pieces with a slightly worn or aged appearance. Slipcovered sofas and armchairs create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Farmhouse-style dining tables and chairs, often made from wood, provide a gathering space for family and friends. Consider incorporating a few vintage or antique pieces to add character and a sense of history.

Textiles: Textiles play a crucial role in layering texture and adding visual interest. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal for upholstery and curtains. Introduce subtle patterns like stripes or nautical motifs through throw pillows and blankets. Natural fiber rugs, such as jute or sisal, add warmth and texture underfoot.

Wall Decor: Wall decor in a coastal farmhouse space should be simple and understated. Consider a gallery wall featuring framed prints of seascapes, botanicals, or vintage maps. Decorative plates or woven wall hangings can also add a touch of coastal charm. Shiplap or beadboard paneling can be used to create a focal wall and enhance the farmhouse aesthetic.

Lighting: Lighting should be warm and inviting. Opt for fixtures made from natural materials like wood or metal. Pendant lights with woven shades or glass lanterns create a relaxed ambiance. Table lamps with ceramic bases and linen shades add a touch of elegance. Consider incorporating strategically placed sconces for additional lighting and visual interest.

Decorative Accents: Decorative accents are essential for completing the coastal farmhouse look. Seashells, coral, driftwood, and other nautical elements can be incorporated sparingly to evoke a sense of the coast. Vintage glass bottles, pottery, and metal buckets add a touch of rustic charm. Plants, both real and faux, bring a touch of life and freshness to the space.

Window Treatments: Window treatments should be light and airy, allowing natural light to flood the space. White or cream-colored linen curtains or bamboo shades are ideal choices. Avoid heavy drapes or ornate window treatments, as they can detract from the light and airy feel.

Flooring: Flooring options for coastal farmhouse style typically include hardwood floors, painted wood floors, or tile. Light-colored wood floors create a sense of spaciousness and contribute to the overall brightness of the space. Painted wood floors, often in white or gray, enhance the farmhouse aesthetic. Tile flooring, particularly in neutral tones, can be a practical and stylish choice for high-traffic areas.

Open Shelving: Open shelving in the kitchen or living area provides an opportunity to display decorative items and add a touch of personality. Use open shelves to showcase collections of pottery, vintage glassware, or books. Incorporate a few plants or decorative baskets to add visual interest and texture.

Metal Accents: Incorporating metal accents, such as galvanized steel or wrought iron, can add a touch of industrial farmhouse charm. Consider using metal baskets for storage, metal pendant lights, or metal wall decor. These elements can create a subtle contrast against the softer textures and colors in the space.

Shiplap and Beadboard: Shiplap and beadboard are popular design elements in coastal farmhouse style. These architectural details can be used on walls, ceilings, or furniture to add texture and visual interest. Shiplap, with its horizontal wood planks, creates a classic farmhouse look. Beadboard, with its vertical grooves, adds a touch of traditional charm.

Slipcovers: Slipcovers are a practical and stylish choice for furniture in a coastal farmhouse space. They provide a relaxed, casual look and can be easily removed for cleaning. Opt for slipcovers in light, neutral colors like white, cream, or light gray. Linen or cotton slipcovers create a breathable and comfortable feel.