How To Choose The Right Paint Colors For A Coastal-Style Living Room

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Creating a coastal-style living room is all about capturing the serene and inviting ambiance of the shoreline. The right paint colors can transform your space, bringing in the calming vibes of the sea, sky, and sand. In this article, we will delve into the world of coastal living room paint colors, exploring the best shades to achieve that perfect coastal look.

Understanding Coastal Style

Coastal style is not just about incorporating beachy elements; it's about creating a space that feels fresh, airy, and inviting. This style often involves using light, breezy hues that remind you of the sand, sea, and sky. The key is to keep the space feeling open and relaxed, making it perfect for both coastal homes and inland residences looking to bring a touch of the ocean indoors.

Neutral Backgrounds

When choosing paint colors for your coastal living room, starting with a neutral background is crucial. Neutral colors such as white, soft gray, and beige provide a clean canvas that allows you to incorporate other coastal elements without overwhelming the space. Here are some popular neutral paint colors that are perfect for creating a coastal vibe:

Whites

1. Sherwin Williams Pure White: This is a true white that creates a sense of warmth and openness in the room. It's ideal for creating a fresh and airy feel that's reminiscent of ocean waves.
2. Benjamin Moore White Dove: This warm white keeps the space open without feeling too stark. It's a versatile choice that pairs well with various coastal decor elements.
3. Sherwin Williams Snowbound: This paint color has its own unique undertones that create a little more depth than a pure white. It's mostly white but with subtle undertones that add character to the room.

Beiges & Grays

1. Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist: This greige (a mix of gray and beige) provides some contrast against white trim while maintaining a warm and neutral tone.
2. Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray: Another greige option, this color feels warm and neutral, making it an excellent choice for creating a balanced coastal look.
3. Sherwin Williams Repose Gray: A slightly cooler grayish option, this color still has a lot of warmth and can add depth to your coastal living room without overpowering it.

Incorporating Coastal Colors

While neutral backgrounds are essential, incorporating coastal colors can elevate your space and make it truly unique. Here are some popular coastal paint colors that you can use either as accent walls or for the entire room:

Soft Blues

1. Benjamin Moore Water’s Edge: This blue-gray paint color is perfect for creating a serene atmosphere in your living room. It's more pigmented than Sherwin Williams Sea Salt but still neutral enough to work well in a living room.
2. Benjamin Moore Wythe Blue: This color reminds you of Sherwin Williams Sea Salt but has a touch more blue and is slightly more pigmented. It's great for painting front porch ceilings or any area where you want to bring in a coastal feel.

Earthy Tones

1. Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige: This soft beige is perfect for creating a serene space with a touch of coastal charm. Pair it with natural fibers and textures to bring warmth and coziness to your room.
2. Benjamin Moore Classic Gray: This versatile gray pairs well with various coastal decor elements and can be used as an accent wall or for the entire room.

Muted Greens

1. Sherwin Williams Pine Frost: This soft and muted green with gray undertones is reminiscent of coastal landscapes. It's an excellent choice if you want to bring in some natural elements without going too bold.

Design Tips for Coastal Living Rooms

Creating a cohesive coastal living room involves more than just choosing the right paint colors. Here are some design tips to help you achieve that perfect coastal look:

Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of your coastal living room. Natural light is essential, so ensure that your room receives plenty of sunlight during the day. If possible, use large windows or floor-to-ceiling glass to bring in natural light and create an airy feel.

Textiles and Decor

Textiles and decor play a significant role in enhancing the coastal vibe of your living room. Use natural fibers like cotton, linen, or jute for your upholstery and rugs. Incorporate coastal-themed decor such as nautical elements, driftwood accents, or beach-inspired artwork to add character to your space.

Furniture

Furniture should be simple yet elegant with clean lines that reflect the simplicity of coastal design. Opt for pieces made from natural materials like wood or rattan to add warmth and texture to your room.

Rugs

Rugs can tie together the entire look of your coastal living room. Choose rugs with natural fibers like sisal or jute that complement your furniture and decor. A rug with a coastal-inspired design can add a pop of color and texture to your space.

Accessories

Accessories are where you can get creative with your coastal design. Use black painted window frames or black framed decor to create contrast against the neutral background. Incorporate coastal-themed accessories like shell-adorned vases, driftwood sculptures, or nautical-themed throw pillows to add personality to your space.

Exterior Paint Colors for a Coastal Home

Incorporating coastal design into your home is not limited to the interior. Exterior paint colors can also play a significant role in enhancing the curb appeal of your home and creating a cohesive look with the interior.

Front Door Colors

A pop of color on your front door can be a subtle yet impactful statement to your home. Benjamin Moore Smoke is an excellent choice for front doors as it pairs well with whitewashed brick and modern house numbers and lanterns.

Shutters and Trim

Shutters painted in Sherwin Williams Uncertain Grey paired with a body of paint in Sherwin Williams Pure White create a beautiful coastal exterior without incorporating blue tones. For trim, consider using bright whites like Sherwin Williams Extra White or Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace to keep a simple and balanced look.

Creating a Coastal Color Palette

Creating a cohesive coastal color palette involves more than just choosing individual paint colors; it's about how these colors work together to create a harmonious space. Here are some timeless modern coastal color palettes that you can use as inspiration:

Warm Neutrals with Touches of Blue and Green

1. Westhighland White (Sherwin Williams 7566): A warm and inviting white with a hint of beige that creates a cozy atmosphere in coastal modern interiors.
2. Natural Choice (Sherwin Williams 7011): A soft, neutral beige that complements coastal décor and provides a soothing backdrop.
3. Ancient Marble (Sherwin Williams 6162): A subtle and sophisticated greige that brings elegance to coastal interiors.
4. Alabaster (Sherwin Williams 7008): A classic and versatile white with a warm undertone, perfect for creating a light and airy coastal feel.
5. Pine Frost (Sherwin Williams 7624): A soft and muted green with gray undertones, reminiscent of coastal landscapes.

Testing Paint Samples

Before making a final decision on your paint colors, it's essential to test paint samples in your space under different lighting conditions. Websites like Samplize.com offer zero-mess paint samples that peel and stick to your walls, allowing you to see how the colors look in various lighting scenarios.

Conclusion

Choosing the right paint colors for your coastal-style living room is about creating a space that feels fresh, airy, and inviting. By starting with neutral backgrounds like white or soft gray and incorporating coastal colors such as soft blues, earthy tones, and muted greens, you can achieve that perfect coastal look. Remember to consider lighting, textiles, furniture, rugs, and accessories to create a cohesive design that reflects the serene ambiance of the shoreline. With these tips and color palettes, you'll be well on your way to transforming your living room into a serene coastal sanctuary that you'll love spending time in.