It’s only natural that Aussies love the coastal look. There’s something familiar and nostalgic about its soft sandy neutrals and myriad deep blues; it means home.
Coastal style is all about natural living, from the texture of rope and driftwood to the colour schemes that bring a room to life.
We’re taking a closer look at some classic and contemporary colour palettes inspired by the natural tones of the coast.
These colour combinations are sure to lift and lighten your look, and bring a soothing mood to your home. Let us know which look is your favourite in the comments below!
Sand & Sea
Featured: Maja 3 Seater Sofa, Light Grey from Zanui, and Malibu Framed Print from Hoxton Art House.
Why it works
One of our favourite classic coastal aesthetics draws on sand and sea tones. The neutral beige of sand complements oceanic blue because it grounds the bolder colour and creates balance.
Style advice
When styling with sand and sea tones, remember to give depth to the palette with graduating tones in both sand and sea-blue.
Opt for off-white as a base on your sofa, and layer with taupe, vanilla, buttercream and French blue, imperial blue or lighter marine and azure.
Weathered Timber & White
Image credit: Plum Pretty Sugar via Pinterest
Why it works
Another classic looks, inspired by the laid-back luxury of traditional Hamptons’ homes, weathered wood and white combine in a clean, neutral palette. Timber warms the crisp white and has that aged, beach-house feel.
Style advice
Introduce natural timber planks with sanded floorboards or a slatted bedhead. Reclaimed timber has that natural appeal and is more eco-friendly, giving that driftwood vibe.
Pair with off-white neutrals like marshmallow, coconut, or egret in wall paint, cushions and throws, and bedding.
Sea-glass Green
Featured: Otto Armchair, Blue Grey from Zanui, Pom Pom Throw from j.elliot HOME and Escape to Paradise cushion.
Why it works
One of the freshest colours of the year has been sea-glass, a clear, crisp almost-green that brings together the playfulness of aqua and the freshness of mint. It’s just the right balance for a colour pop.
Style advice
Because sea-glass can be bright when used heavily, it’s best to start with a neutral base palette and add bursts of bolder sea-glass, then contrast with darker shades of blue or light grey.
Consider adding sea-glass into your coastal-inspired décor accents or even your tableware if you don’t want to commit to it all over the house.
Storm Grey & Navy Blue
Featured: Hopkins Queen Bed, Navy from Zanui, Coastal Round Jute Rug by Rug Culture, and the Burton Cushion, Storm and Castle Cushion from L&M Home.
Why it works
A contemporary colour palette with a heavier mood, stormy shades of grey and navy bring a more luxurious feel to your home. This palette works with so many styles, so everyone in the home is bound to fall under its spell.
Style advice
To avoid bringing down the mood of your space with too many dark shades, balance the greys and deep blues with lighter frost and dove greys, neutral marshmallow, and even splashes of pure black for contrast.
This palette works well in more comfortable areas of the home, such as a bedroom or a reading nook, where you want to feel sheltered and draw the space in.
Coral Pink & Sunset Orange
L to R: Kiosk Cushion, Kingston Cushion, Greek Key Cushion, Zircon Cushion, and Waverly Cushion from Rapee on the Otto 3 Seater Sofa, Frost from Zanui.
Why it works
We all love a beach sunset, watching the colours stretch across the horizon. It’s magical, no doubt about it. One of our favourite trends this year has been the introduction of blush pinks. Add a coastal twist with coral and orange for a tropical feel in your home.
Style advice
Bright colours like these work best as accent colours popping on neutral bases. Be audacious and opt for sun-kissed coral and shell-pink tones, graduated with persimmon or deeper flame orange. Contrast with blue or green hues if you’re feeling adventurous!
These warm colours look fantastic in cushions and throws, and add a bit of fun to your family room or outdoor lounge area (spaces where entertainment is most important!).
