Welcome to your new home journey!

Starting from scratch in your new bedroom can feel like a fresh page in a notebook, waiting to be filled with ideas that match your personality. And if you’ve always dreamed of creating a space that feels like a beach getaway—complete with the calming sounds of the ocean (even if you’re miles away from the coast)—you’re in the right place.

Creating a modern coastal bedroom is about more than just slapping on a few beachy accents; it’s about building a space that brings in the calm and breezy feeling of the ocean while staying modern and fresh. It’s a mix of cool blues, warm natural textures, and a relaxing vibe that feels like an instant vacation. Sounds good, right? Let’s dive in!

1. Choose Light, Soft Colors for Your Base

Your bedroom’s color scheme is like the foundation of a beach house—start with the basics and build up from there. The colors you choose will dictate the entire feel of your room, so think calming, light, and soft, like the beach at sunrise.

• Tip: For your walls, go for soft whites, light grays, or warm beige tones, which will act as a neutral backdrop. These colors mimic the soft sand and open sky. Then, add ocean-inspired accents like pastel blues, seafoam greens, or deep navy to your pillows, bed linens, or wall art. You don’t have to go overboard—just a few well-placed colors will tie the whole room together.
  

Visual Example: Think of a peaceful ocean horizon. You want the colors in your bedroom to feel like you’re looking out at the sea, calm and serene.

2. Embrace Natural Materials

Coastal design is all about connecting with nature, and natural materials bring that beachy, organic vibe into your room. The best part? You don’t have to live by the beach to enjoy the look and feel of nature in your bedroom.

• Tip: Incorporate materials like driftwood, rattan, linen, and cotton. A rattan bed frame or wicker chair can instantly give your room that beachy charm. Wooden furniture or accessories, like a driftwood nightstand or a woven basket, can add texture and warmth. And don’t forget textiles—linen and cotton sheets are breathable and light, just like the breeze by the sea.
  

Pro Tip: Look for secondhand or vintage furniture made of natural materials for a budget-friendly touch with loads of character.

3. Go for Breezy, Comfortable Bedding

Your bed is the star of the show in any bedroom, and when you’re creating a modern coastal space, you want your bed to feel like a soft cloud, just waiting to envelop you in comfort. Soft, breezy textiles are key to creating that laid-back, beachy feel.

• Tip: Opt for linens that feel light and airy. Choose bedspreads and pillows in soft neutrals with accents of ocean-inspired blues or aquas. Layer different textures to create a cozy, lived-in vibe—think a linen duvet, cotton sheets, and a chunky knitted throw at the foot of the bed. This mix of soft and textured materials will feel luxurious without being too fussy.
  

Visual Example: Picture the feeling of sinking into a soft, breezy bed after a long day by the ocean. That’s what you’re aiming for!

4. Let Natural Light Flow In

A coastal bedroom needs to feel open and airy. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is by flooding the room with natural light. Nothing says “beach house” like sunshine streaming in through wide-open windows.

• Tip: If possible, place your bed near a window where it can catch the sunlight. Go for light, sheer curtains that let the light filter through without blocking it. If privacy is a concern, choose curtains with a lighter material or opt for bamboo blinds. The key is to make sure the room feels light, bright, and welcoming.
  

Expert Thought: If you’re in a darker space, try adding mirrors to reflect the light and make the room feel larger and more open.

5. Add Subtle Coastal Accents

Coastal decor is about creating an atmosphere, not just decorating with obvious beachy items. You don’t need to go overboard with seashells and anchors (unless that’s your style!), but a few well-chosen accents will complete the look.

• Tip: Subtle touches like framed beach photography, ocean-inspired art, or a bowl of sea glass can add that beachy vibe without feeling like you’re trying too hard. A few wooden or woven baskets for storage, or a coastal-inspired lamp with a shell or driftwood base, will also work perfectly.
  

DIY Option: Collect a few shells or pebbles from your last beach trip and display them in a glass jar for a simple and personalized coastal touch.

6. Incorporate Relaxing, Soft Lighting

Lighting is another essential element that can make or break the vibe of a coastal bedroom. You want soft, warm lighting that mimics the natural glow of the sun setting over the ocean.

• Tip: Go for soft, dimmable lighting options. Pendant lights with natural materials like rattan or wicker are perfect for a coastal space. You can also use fairy lights or LED strips around the bed frame to create a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. A statement lamp on your bedside table with a natural base (think wood or ceramic) can add that final touch.
  

Pro Tip: Choose warm light bulbs to create a calm, welcoming ambiance.

7. Keep It Simple and Uncluttered

The key to a great coastal bedroom is simplicity. Too much stuff can make the room feel cramped and cluttered, taking away from that serene, beachy feel. The goal is to create a space where you can easily unwind and relax.

• Tip: Keep surfaces clear and only display items that add to the overall vibe of the room. This might mean putting away extra books or knick-knacks, leaving space to breathe and move freely.
  

Expert Thought: Use baskets and storage to keep the room organized without losing the relaxed, beachy aesthetic.