Style Chronicles: Cottage Coastal Style

When I say “cottage,” do you picture your grandfather’s cabin in the woods or your family’s old summer retreat? When you think “coastal,” do memories of the beach or last season’s fishing trip come to mind?
 
These ideas and memories are the foundation of a year-round style that’s the fourth featured style in our Expedition Design style lab — Cottage Coastal style.
 
There’s no denying Cottage Coastal style has elements of summer designs, like lighter colors, light coastal painted furniture, bright natural light and outdoor accents brought indoors. But Cottage Coastal is more than that.
 
Cottage Coastal style is about surrounding yourself with timeworn favorites that evoke fond memories — like your grandmother’s collection of teacups or seashells gathered on your honeymoon. It’s relaxing and comfortable. It’s clean and uncluttered, but full of nostalgia. And no matter the time of year, it’s warm, welcoming and homey.
 
Here are our six ways to make this style your own.
 
1. Keep it neutral, bright and airy. Keep spaces simple and open with white or neutral paint. Bright open spaces are a cornerstone of Cottage Coastal, so let in plenty of natural light with billowing, lightweight drapes or louvered panel doors to keep your space clean, uncluttered and spacious.
 
 
2. Add soft pastels for accents. If you’re looking for an accent color, look outdoors. Start with muted sky blues, subtle mossy greens and mellow sunny yellows. For cooler seasons, incorporate some warmer tones like burnt orange or a deeper crimson red. But don’t overdo it with the color. Spread color sparingly so décor remains bright and sophisticated.
 
 
3. Use natural textures and outdoor elements. Weatherworn and natural wood grains, wicker furniture, coastal painted furniture, sisal rugs and walls with character — like wainscoting or tongue-and-groove paneling — are important in Cottage Coastal style. Instead of polished or shiny finishes, play with different sheens and opt for matte finishes. Bring in more texture and rougher fibers from the outdoors, especially for fall and winter, with branches, pine cones or woody vines.
 
4. Get comfy with cozy fabrics. Casual and comfy are two of my favorite words. Cottage Coastal style is just that — relaxing and cozy, no matter the season. Fabrics and patterns should be casual, like a light floral pattern on a neutral backdrop or a subtle gingham or plaid of like colors (not the harsh red-and-white picnic tablecloth type). For nights and cooler seasons, layer on the plush, cozy knits, curl up and relax.
 

 
5. Painted furniture and floors. Paint doesn’t have to stay on the walls with Cottage Coastal style. Add a fresh coat of paint in neutral or pastel colors to brighten up your décor. Painted coastal furniture and floors give a clean, sophisticated look that’s unique to this style.
 

Our Southern Home has natural wicker textures, light-sky-blue painted furniture and

subtle floral patterns for a Cottage Coastal look.

 
6. Accent with the past. Here are where grandma’s teacups come into play. Vintage relics and cherished heirlooms add interest, appeal and personality to Cottage Coastal style. A worn typewriter or antique lantern can complete the look, tell your story and help you create that peaceful “getaway” to your past.
 

Pumpkin and a Princess (left), My 3 Monsters (middle) and Our Southern Home (right)

weave in nostalgic accents into their Cottage Coastal décor

 
For even more ideas on how to make Cottage Coastal style décor your own, check out our Pinterest board.  
 
And if you’re looking for more design inspiration, check out these other styles — Vintage Eclectic, Urban Classic and Modern Simplicity  — to find what speaks to you.