As summer sets in, interior trends are shifting toward calm, airy, and light-filled spaces, and one of the most enduring inspirations is the beach house aesthetic. Whether you’re located by the sea or miles from the coast, bringing the essence of coastal living indoors is about more than just geography.
According to Kate Conrad, senior interior stylist and owner of homeware brand Madison & Mayfair, the key to embracing this timeless style is a focus on texture, tone, and natural elements that speak to the simplicity of seaside living.
Here, Kate shares practical ways to bring the beach house aesthetic into your home.

1. Create space with a coastal-inspired palette
“Start by considering your home’s colour palette. The beach house look leans into muted tones – think whites softened by sun, sandy neutrals, pale driftwood greys, and hints of sky or sea blue. These shades open up a room and invite in natural light, making even small spaces feel airy.
“Colours like soft taupe or chalky white create the perfect base. From there, just a few accents in dusty blue or seafoam can bring in that oceanic feeling without overwhelming the space.”

2. Layer with natural textures and organic materials
“A beach house interior should feel tactile and grounded. That’s where materials like linen, rattan, woven cotton, and raw wood come into play. Rather than focusing on one large statement piece, layering textures subtly throughout the home is more impactful.
“A textured throw or woven basket can do more to evoke the coast than a room full of nautical prints – you want the space to feel natural, sun-drenched, and effortless.”

3. Keep the light flowing
“Natural light is central to the beach house look. Sheer curtains or light-filtering blinds can help maximise daylight without compromising privacy. Mirrors can also reflect light and make rooms feel larger, especially when placed opposite windows.
“Lighting should feel organic too. Table lamps in ceramic or weathered finishes, and overhead lighting softened by linen or woven shades are a great addition.”

4. Bring the outdoors in – quietly
“Incorporate the feeling of outdoor living by subtly referencing nature inside. This can be as simple as adding greenery, shells in a dish, or driftwood on a mantel. But the key is restraint.
“A lot of people go too literal with coastal design, but you don’t need anchor motifs or seashell wallpaper. Think about how a single leafy plant in a neutral planter can bring the room to life.”

5. Design for relaxation, not perfection
“At the heart of the beach house aesthetic is a sense of ease. Slipcovers, oversized cushions, low-maintenance fabrics, and open layouts help create a space that encourages slowing down.
“More than any one item, this look is about how a space feels when you walk in. It should feel like an exhale.”