Design Trend: Modern Coastal

  • 3 minutes
  • 17 January 2024

We asked and you answered: Modern Coastal is everyone’s favourite design trend. We polled our subscribers and social media followers on their favourite design trend, and Modern Coastal emerged as the clear winner.  

It’s easy to see why. This design trend has timeless allure, featuring contrasting textures and a minimalist colour palette. No matter your proximity to the ocean, this style is ideally suited to the Australian climate. It effortlessly captures the essence of laid-back living, celebrating the raw beauty of natural elements and an outdoorsy lifestyle. Picture sandy feet, breezy spaces, and a design aesthetic that exudes tranquillity.

 

Modern Coastal design is here to stay

Unpacking the Modern Coastal Design Ethos

The hallmark of this design style is its commitment to simplicity. Pared-back interiors showcase clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on the essentials. This design ethos creates a calming environment, with neutral tones and textures giving ‘effortless chic’. 

Head outdoors, and you’ll find minimalist facades, highlighting geometric shapes and horizontal lines to give a sophisticated effect with a California-Casual flavour.  

Geometric shapes and clean lines

The Modern Coastal Colour Palette

The colour palette reflects the serene coastal lifestyle. Whites, beiges, and soft greens dominate, creating a neutral backdrop that allows the beauty of natural textures to take centre stage.  

Add a touch of peach for a modern twist to differentiate it from traditional coastal themes. 

Modern coastal colours feature whites, neutrals and some soft green tones

Natural Elements, Light-Filled Interiors

Connection to nature is at the forefront of this design trend. Indoor-outdoor living is seamlessly integrated, allowing natural light to flood interiors. Think light-filled spaces and floortoceiling windows that blur the lines between inside and out. 

Easy breezy indoor-outdoor connections

Easy, Breezy Outdoor Living

Modern Coastal living extends seamlessly to the outdoors. Cushions, seating, and hammocks transform outdoor spaces into havens of relaxation.  

Incorporating natural materials like travertine, wicker, or light wood in outdoor pieces ensures the Coastal vibe is cohesive throughout your home, creating a harmonious transition. Plus, it’s possible to extend the colour palette of your home by painting your ModularWalls wall or fence solution in complementary tones – seen executed to perfection by The Designory  

‘Coastal living is all about outdoor relaxation, so we also included cushions, seating, and hammocks.’ The Designory  

Modern coastal design evokes the feeling of sandy feet and warm afternoons by the pool

Contrasting Textures, Timber Accents

Timber is the undisputed star of the Modern Coastal design playbook. Timber adds warmth and character, whether it’s a dark teak or a lighter rattan look. Infuse a modern, edgy twist by choosing stone and concrete for contrasting textures to elevate the overall aesthetic.  

Timber is a key player in coastal design

Modern Coastal, Timeless Elegance

Modern Coastal is more than just a design trend; it’s a lifestyle choice. It’s all about embracing the beauty of simplicity and creating spaces that reflect the easygoing nature of coastal living. So, whether you’re dreaming of creating your very own seaside-inspired retreat or looking to infuse your existing space with a touch of breezy sophistication, Modern Coastal design is your ticket to laid-back luxury. By fusing natural elements, neutral tones, and clean lines, it’s possible to create a space that will stand the test of time.