Achieve ultimate relaxation with these 3 steps
There’s something timeless about a beach house, isn’t there? Maybe it’s the salty breeze, the soft sounds of the waves, or that unmistakable feeling of peace you get when you arrive over the bridge. When you think about what drew you to Long Beach Island, it’s likely a mix of that nostalgic beach-town charm and the memories waiting to be made with family and friends. Designing a coastal retreat is about capturing those moments and creating a place that feels like a true getaway. So, let’s dive into the essential steps for furnishing your coastal home, blending comfort with style, and making it the kind of space that feels welcoming and effortless year-round.
Step 1: Make comfort a priority in your main spaces
In a coastal home, comfort is key. Start by focusing on areas where everyone naturally gathers, like the living room, dining area, and outdoor spaces. The goal is to create spaces that invite family and friends to settle in and stay awhile. Here’s how to get started:
Choose cozy, durable seating: Look for plush sofas and chairs that invite people to unwind. Fabrics like performance linen or stain-resistant upholstery work beautifully in coastal settings—they’re durable, easy to clean, and ready for plenty of beach traffic.
Layer in soft textures: Adding textures with throws, pillows, and rugs gives warmth without weighing down the space. Natural materials like cotton, jute, or sisal complement coastal decor and bring in a relaxed, casual feel. A cozy rug can anchor the room, adding comfort and style.
Opt for flexible furniture: Multi-purpose pieces work wonders in a vacation home. Consider a sleeper sofa that can double as extra sleeping space for guests or an extendable dining table for hosting family and friends. Flexible furniture helps your beach house adapt to any occasion.
Creating comfort is all about combining the laid-back feel of coastal living with practical, long-lasting pieces. The result is a space where everyone feels at home, whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a long stay.
Step 2: Add meaningful decor that tells a story
A coastal retreat is more than a beautifully furnished space—it should reflect your personality, family memories, and favorite coastal elements. Here’s how to infuse a bit of "you" into your beach house:
Incorporate personal touches: Decor items like family photos, vintage coastal finds, or handmade crafts add warmth and nostalgia. Maybe it’s a seashell collection from a favorite beach or a framed map of the area—these touches make your beach house feel uniquely yours.
Choose local artwork: Supporting local artists not only adds charm but connects your home to the coastal community. Seek out artwork, photography, or pottery by local artisans to bring in the natural beauty of the coast and give your space a true sense of place.
Use nature-inspired accents: Elements like driftwood, sea glass, and woven textures reflect the coastal landscape. These accents ground your home in the surrounding environment, creating an authentic, beach-inspired vibe.
Decor with meaning makes your coastal home more than a beautiful setting—it’s a place full of character, with pieces that tell a story and hold memories.
Step 3: Plan your layout for flow and relaxation
A beach house layout should feel open, easy, and connected to its surroundings. Focusing on flow, natural light, and scenic views creates a calming environment that draws in the beauty of the coast.
Arrange furniture with purpose: Start by arranging your furniture to encourage easy movement throughout the space. Think about sightlines—place seating to highlight views from windows or outdoor spaces. This approach keeps each room connected to the outdoors and fills it with natural light.
Let the light in: Coastal homes shine with light, so keep window treatments minimal and prioritize shades that let in daylight while offering privacy. Sheer, lightweight curtains add a soft, airy feel without blocking the view.
Maximize outdoor views: Coastal living is about enjoying the view, whether it’s the ocean, dunes, or surrounding trees. Arrange furniture to highlight these vistas, and create outdoor seating areas to take in the landscape.
A thoughtful layout emphasizing flow and relaxation makes each space welcoming, practical, and ideal for a laid-back lifestyle.
Bonus step: Start with a solid budget and plan ahead
The foundation of every well-designed coastal home is a clear, organized budget. Budgeting helps you prioritize key pieces, avoid overspending, and make the most of every dollar. Here’s how to get started:
Define your priorities: Identify what matters most—whether it’s a comfortable living room, a well-furnished outdoor space, or a functional guest bedroom. Listing your must-haves will guide your spending and keep you focused.
Invest in durable, low-maintenance pieces: Coastal homes see a lot of sun, sand, and foot traffic, so look for pieces that stand the test of time. Durable materials may cost a bit more, but they save money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring less upkeep.
Set a realistic budget: Creating a detailed budget keeps you on track and helps you make informed decisions. My Furnishing Budget Planner is designed to guide you through each step, from prioritizing rooms to setting a budget for each space. It’s launching soon, so don’t miss your chance to sign up for first dibs!
With the right budget, you can create a coastal home that’s as practical as it is beautiful—giving you peace of mind while you bring your vision to life.
Designing a coastal home is all about balance: comfort, personal touches, and a thoughtful layout come together to create a space you’ll look forward to returning to, season after season. Whether you’re furnishing a family retreat or setting up a cozy beach escape for two, these steps can help bring your vision to life.
Ready to start planning? Sign up to be first in line for my furniture budget planner, launching soon!