New England Charm: Coastal Cottage Vibes

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

When it comes to home decor, few styles evoke the same sense of tranquility and charm as the New England coastal cottage aesthetic. This design philosophy seamlessly blends the timeless elegance of classic New England with the carefree spirit of a beachside retreat. Whether you're drawn to the nautical accents of New England or the vibrant colors of a tropical beach, the coastal cottage style offers a versatile and inviting way to bring the beauty of the sea into your home.

The Allure of New England Coastal Style

New England coastal style is more than just a trend; it's a way of life. Rooted in the region's rich history and natural beauty, this aesthetic combines light, airy colors with nautical accents and cozy furnishings to create a relaxing and inviting space. The style often incorporates elements from the past, such as vintage or antique pieces, which add character and a touch of history to your home.

One of the defining features of New England coastal style is its use of light, airy colors. Shades of white, beige, and taupe provide a neutral background that allows for the incorporation of blues, greens, and grays that reflect the ocean and sky. These colors create a serene and calming atmosphere perfect for a coastal retreat.

New England Coastal Color Palette

When it comes to the New England coastal look, a neutral color palette is key. Think shades of white, beige, and taupe, as well as blues, greens, and grays that reflect the ocean and sky. Incorporating these colors in your furniture, bedding, and decor pieces can create a serene, calming atmosphere.

For example, Sherwin Williams’ "Ancient Marble" is a popular paint color used in many New England coastal homes. It runs through the kitchen, living room, and main hallway, providing a neutral green shade that complements other coastal elements.

Natural Elements

Natural materials like wood and wicker are also popular in New England coastal homes. These add a touch of warmth and rustic charm to any space. Wood and wicker trays can be used throughout your home to capture that coastal feel. For instance, a DIY faux sea glass bead garland on a natural teak wood tray can add a beautiful accent piece to your decor.

Bringing Coastal Vibes Indoors

Creating a coastal environment in your home is all about keeping it casual and carefree. Surround yourself with art, objects, and accessories that make you happy. This no-pressure, mix-and-match approach creates a comfortable atmosphere that guests will appreciate, even if you're miles from an actual waterfront.

Lighting: The Key to Coastal Charm

One of the easiest ways to infuse style into your space is with nautical, coastal, and beach-inspired lighting. A little drama is easy to achieve with the right fixture. Here are a few tips to make selecting a design easier than ever:

• Bring Outdoor Fixtures Inside: If your ceiling heights allow, consider mounting coastal-style outdoor lighting on each side of your bathroom medicine cabinet or in an unexpected place like a laundry room to make a nautical statement.
• Brighten Up Tight Quarters: Busy on deck? Stick to compact coastal flush mount lighting in high-traffic areas like hallways, foyers, landings, and stairwells to save space and open up areas with bright light.
• Anchor Ceilings in Main Living Areas: To establish a focal point with minimal effort, opt for coastal indoor lighting styles like pendants and chandeliers with their wide array of interesting finishes for dining rooms and family rooms.

Nantucket-Inspired Coastal Cottages

Nantucket-inspired coastal cottages are a quintessential part of the New England coastal style. These homes often feature shingle-style architecture characterized by cedar shakes, gabled roofs, and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape. They reflect a harmony between the rugged beauty of the Northeast shoreline and the architectural tradition that has defined this region for generations.

For instance, a Charlotte-based couple built their ideal home away from home inspired by a stroll along Kiawah Island's wide beaches. Their 9,000-square-foot, six-bedroom residence expertly marries style and sophistication with effortless coziness. The pale blue palette accentuated by warmer tones captures natural light spilling through myriad windows and French doors.

Coastal Decor Tips

Creating a coastal look in your home can be achieved through several key elements:

1. Coastal-Inspired Items: Accessorize with coastal-inspired items such as vintage maps, nautical prints, or sea glass. These add a touch of whimsy to your decor without overwhelming the space.
2. Natural Elements: Use natural materials like wood and wicker throughout your home. These add warmth and rustic charm to any space. For example, a vase filled with dried grasses reminiscent of beach dunes can be a beautiful accent piece.
3. Pattern Mixing: Don't be afraid to mix patterns in your decor. Coastal style often incorporates traditional blue-and-white colors with vibrant hues to create a unique and inviting atmosphere.
4. Keep It Simple: The New England coastal style is all about simplicity. Avoid overcrowding your space with too much furniture or decor. Instead, focus on creating a few focal points that will make a statement.

Transforming Your Space

Transforming your home into a coastal cottage retreat doesn't have to be an overwhelming task. Start by incorporating key elements such as light, airy colors; natural materials; and coastal-inspired decor.

For example, Ann and Keith transformed their beach cottage by painting the siding a lighter gray than initially and adding coastal-style shutters and window boxes. They also repurposed an old doorframe into an art piece and used thrifted beach finds to create a unique and eclectic coastal vibe.

Creating a Charming Coastal Beach Cottage

Creating a charming coastal beach cottage involves more than just painting your walls in coastal colors; it's about infusing personality into every room. Here are some tips:

1. Use Vibrant Colors: Bright colors like turquoise or coral can add personality to your space without overwhelming it. For instance, Ann used her daughter's bedroom as her "beach room" when she went off to college. She painted it coastal colors and filled it with thrifted beach finds.
2. Repurpose Finds: Repurposing old items into art pieces or decorative items can add character to your space. For example, Ann spray-painted an old turquoise grid used on their back door and used it as a background for two art pieces by her daughter.
3. Balance with Neutrals: While vibrant colors can add personality, balancing them with neutral elements like white couches or jute rugs helps maintain a cohesive look.
4. Add Whimsy: Don't be afraid to add whimsical touches like vintage maps or nautical prints. These elements can create a unique and inviting atmosphere that reflects the carefree spirit of a coastal retreat.

Conclusion

New England coastal cottage style is more than just a design aesthetic; it's a way of life that combines timeless elegance with the carefree spirit of a beachside retreat. By incorporating light, airy colors; natural materials; and coastal-inspired decor, you can transform your home into a charming coastal beach cottage that invites relaxation and tranquility.

Whether you're drawn to the nautical accents of New England or the vibrant colors of a tropical beach, this style offers a versatile and inviting way to bring the beauty of the sea into your home. So why not start your journey towards creating that perfect coastal retreat today? With these tips and inspiration from various coastal homes, you'll be well on your way to embracing the charm of New England coastal style in your own home.