The big idea: Beachy chic brings a light, relaxed, coastal feel to your home. You don’t have to relocate to Florida and no ocean view is required. It’s an easy fit for today’s bright, open new construction homes.
We asked award-winning interior designer Jennifer Adams how to get the look right without going nautical.
What Beachy Chic Means
Coastal-inspired, not themed.
“You could do a beach theme that captures the clean, airy, relaxing feelings of a beach vacation or go all-out with a full nautical theme,” says Adams.
Her advice: skip anchors and starfish in favor of calm colors and natural textures.
Start with a Light Foundation
Perfect for new homes.
Wide-plank wood or wood-look floors
Blues from navy to pale sky
Let Texture Do the Work
Texture creates warmth without clutter.
Jute or sisal rugs
Linen and canvas fabrics
Woven baskets, driftwood and aged metals
Use “things people would find as they’re walking along a beach,” Adams says.
Color + Pattern Tips
Stick to blues, grays and neutrals
For bolder accents, use turquoise or sea greens
Choose navy-and-white stripes or subtle rope textures
Design rule: keep walls and sofas neutral; add color with pillows, art and rugs.
Furniture + Accessories
Keep it casual and collected.
Wicker, raw wood and weathered finishes
Linen or muslin upholstery
Simple shells, rope-wrapped vases, driftwood and beach photography
Do: edit carefully Skip: overdoing seashells or signs
Where to Find It
“Shop secondhand stores, estate sales and coastal-town markets,” Adams says.
Bottom line: Beachy chic is calm, casual and timeless – an ideal design style for modern new homes that prioritize light, comfort and livability.
Looking for more tips? Check out our other design articles.
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Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.