Flick open Instagram, take a scroll through Pinterest, and you’ll soon be mesmerised by the light and airy, dreamy interiors of ‘modern coastal interior design’. An inviting and cosy blend of beach home character with a modern touch of sleek contemporary minimalism, the outcome is nothing short of timeless when done right. Soft neutral colour palettes with crisp whites, light wood textures and organic natural materials, the modern coastal home evokes the same soothing qualities of the Peninsula’s natural surrounds. If an effortless, slower-paced lifestyle that’s beautiful, liveable, and inviting to sink into is what you’re after, then modern coastal could be the family-friendly interior style for you.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MODERN COASTAL INTERIOR DESIGN AND HAMPTONS STYLE?
At Salt Interior Studio, we often get asked ‘what is the difference between modern coastal and Hamptons style?’ And although the differences appear subtle, this is where a good designer or stylist will know the difference (and of course not venture into shabby chic or overly bohemian vibes).
In the Mornington Peninsula and beyond, we’ve become known as the go-to for curating modern coastal homes. And oh, how we adore it.
Refined, luxe finishes with considered pieces that create a balanced energy from room to room, a modern coastal home will boast neutral tones, natural timbers, and touches of brass and exposed concrete. With more modern architecture, the luxe coastal look is sharper and sleeker in design and softened with the addition of modern coastal furniture that doesn’t clutter or ever oversell.
On the other hand, traditional Hamptons style design leans further into classical, more rustic tones with hints of country furnishings. Think provincial furniture, splashes of blues and greens against off-white kitchens and bathrooms. Hamptons-style homes pose a more dated take on beachside elegance, with their origins stemming from the beautiful American east coast homes boasting big bay windows overlooking the mesmerising shorelines.
Our conclusion: the two looks certainly are distinct in their own ways. Knowing the difference matters.
HOW TO CREATE A MODERN COASTAL LIVING ROOM
From sourcing natural driftwood décor to finding the right rattan coffee table and your favourite wood-beaded chandelier, when you work with Salt Interior Studio you have access to all the modern coastal living room ideas you need.
In the meantime, if you’re still sussing us out, why not start here? When designing a modern coastal living room, be sure to consider:
Who will use the space
How will it be used
What memories you would like to create in this space
A modern coastal colour palette can be tailored to your preferences, some opt for crisp whites, light greys, and a touch of sky blue or teal, while others choose a more sand coloured palette.
Next, consider the pieces that will tie it all together. A light grey couch with Flou’s natural linen throw cushions has us totally swooning.
Accents of rattan and wood are also a solid choice for complementing the whites and greys in your home.
Finally, think about the senses, we love a beautiful sandalwood candle to lift the ambience and showcase yet another subtle hint of nature-inspired design.
HOW TO CREATE A MODERN COASTAL BATHROOM
Moving onto creating a modern coastal bathroom, the same intention applies; prioritising whites and creating light-filled spaces that further emphasise the small touches of colour and wood.
White panel or light oak cabinetry works beautifully with brass or steel handles and don’t be afraid to get creative with your tiling, hello Abi Interiors Calacatta Tic Tac Mosaic tiles.
A concrete basin we have our eye on: The Kröna Basin by Curated Concrete. Available in a range of colours from Terracotta to Charcoal, and French Grey to Sea Mist, you can certainly curate a look however you desire.
These materials and styles work easily across your home, and the same approach in design works across kitchens, bedrooms and dining areas: focus on simplicity, white space and adding in some natural materials.
I LOVE MODERN COASTAL INTERIOR DESIGN, BUT IS IT KID-FRIENDLY?
We’ve all been there: inspired, hooked and totally in love with a look that’s totally impractical for the life stage we’re in, but is modern coastal a luxe look to let go of? Or is it surprisingly durable, versatile, and kid-friendly?
At Salt Interior Studio, we take the time to understand your goals, your family dynamics and how you intend to use your space. With families of our own, we understand what it’s like to have dirty hands and sandy feet making their way onto the sofa.
With that said, we know the workarounds and style choices that you can make to still have a modern coastal home, without the stress of it all getting damaged.
Here are just a few ways to make modern coastal more family-friendly:
Use linen and fabric protectors
Opt for sand-coloured flooring and thicker looped, durable carpets
Go for a grey couch… modern coastal doesn’t always mean white!
Make the most of storage, hello woven baskets for under your shelves and dining consoles.
MODERN COASTAL INTERIOR DESIGN ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA
Looking for a modern coastal interior designer on the Mornington Peninsula and beyond? Whether you live by the beach or simply love the luxe holiday vibes, at Salt Interior Studio, we specialise in curating modern coastal homes.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO FIND OUT HOW SALT INTERIOR STUDIO CAN HELP YOU CREATE YOUR OWN MODERN COASTAL HOME? DOWNLOAD OUR SERVICE GUIDE HERE.
“SARAH! THANK YOU SO MUCH. I AM ABSOLUTELY THRILLED WITH MY NEW LIVING AREA. YOU HAVE DONE AN INCREDIBLE JOB AND IT LOOKS EVEN BETTER THAN I EXPECTED. THE PHOTOS LOOK FABULOUS AND THE CANDLE AND FLOWERS WERE A LOVELY GESTURE. THANK YOU FOR BEING SO EASY TO DEAL WITH AND SO UNDERSTANDING.”
– MT ELIZA CLIENT
Referenced Article Links:
Flou’s natural linen throw cushions
ABI’s Calacatta Mosiac Tile
The Krona Basin by Curated Concrete
