Designing Your Home as a Coastal Getaway: Bring the Beach Home This Summer

When the balmy lake breeze starts to roll in and the days stretch longer, there’s no better time to bring a bit of coastal calm into your space, even here in Cleveland. You don’t need to live by the ocean to feel like you do. With the right touches, you can transform your space into the ultimate summer beach home.

What is Coastal Design, Really?

Coastal design is all about light, air, and comfort. Think breezy fabrics, natural textures, and a color palette pulled straight from the shore: soft blues, sandy neutrals, crisp whites, and hints of seafoam. It’s less about seashell overload and more about feeling like you’re on vacation without ever packing a bag. The goal is a coastal vibe, not a theme that feels overdone or too literal.

Elements of Coastal Design to Try:

• Natural Materials: Bring in woven baskets, driftwood tones, linen slipcovers, jute rugs, and rattan lighting. These textures ground the space and add a beachy charm without going over the top.

• Light & Airy Fabrics: Sheer curtains, cotton throws, and relaxed slipcovered furniture help create that just-got-back-from-the-beach vibe.

• Ocean-Inspired Hues: Incorporate soft blues, sea glass greens, creamy whites, and sandy tans. These tones mimic the coast and open up a space visually.

• Layered Neutrals: Keep it soothing with layers of off-white, oatmeal, and taupe. The effect is calming and timeless.

Easy Tips to Make It Feel Like a Summer Beach Home:

1. Swap Out Pillows and Throws: Trade in heavy textures for lighter fabrics in beach-inspired colors or subtle nautical patterns.

2. Add Coastal Artwork: Framed ocean landscapes or abstract watercolors bring an instant seaside mood.

3. Decorate with Found Objects: Coral-inspired sculptures, glass vases, and driftwood-look pieces bring texture and character.

4. Create an Indoor/Outdoor Feel: If you have a porch, patio, or sunroom, extend your coastal theme outside. Use breezy curtains, lanterns, or outdoor rugs to create continuity.

Real-Life Coastal Refresh: A Becker (Decor) Project

Recently, we transformed a family’s sunroom into a full-on coastal retreat with breezy white drapes, pale blue accents, and woven textures throughout. The space now feels like a mini beach house, perfect for morning coffee or weekend lounging. It’s proof that you don’t need to live near the water to enjoy coastal serenity.

Don’t Forget the Little Touches

Sometimes, it’s the small things that tie the look together. A bowl of sea glass. A rope mirror. A vase filled with tall beach grass. These simple accents elevate the everyday and make your space feel intentionally designed, even when you're just kicking back in flip-flops.

Ready to Refresh Your Space?

Whether you want a full coastal makeover or just a few summer updates, we’ll help you design a space that feels like a deep breath. Reach out to Desired Designs to schedule your consult and let’s bring the beach to Cleveland.