2025 Trends in Interior Design: A Fresh Approach to Coastal Living

In today’s fast-paced world, our homes have become more than just places to live—they are sanctuaries where we can relax, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves. One interior design trend that perfectly embodies this sense of calm and sophistication is Coastal Chic. This aesthetic blends the breezy, laid-back vibe of coastal living with high-end materials and thoughtful design choices that exude luxury.  

Whether you’re designing a beachfront property or simply want to bring a touch of the coast into your home, this guide will provide you with practical tips and inspiration to achieve the Coastal Chic look. Let’s explore how you can create a space that feels light, airy, and effortlessly elegant. 

A luxurious coastal Palm Beach living room features a sleek white leather sofa, blue accent pillows of different patterns and textures, natural textures like woven baskets and a modern wool rug, creating an elegant and relaxed atmosphere. The concrete topped stainless steel table adds unexpected, matte and shiny texture, a perfect perch for a display of tabletop accessories. The mix of accessories are modern and coastal.

key takeaways:

1.  Coastal Chic balances relaxation and luxury: It blends the breezy, laid-back vibe of coastal living with high-end materials and thoughtful design choices for a sophisticated yet comfortable sanctuary.

2.  A thoughtful, neutral color palette is foundational: Neutrals like white, cream, beige, and gray create a clean, airy canvas, while subtle pops of blues, greens, and corals inspired by nature add warmth and personality.

3.  High-quality materials and layered textures are essential: Marble, brass, and light-toned woods contribute to understated elegance, while linen, jute, rattan, and plush throws create depth and visual interest.

4.  Blending indoor and outdoor living enhances well-being: Maximizing natural light, extending indoor materials outdoors, and integrating natural elements through biophilic design create a harmonious connection with nature, reducing stress and improving mood.

5.  Sustainability and personal style are key: Embrace eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient solutions, and, most importantly, infuse your space with your personal style preferences to create a coastal oasis that is both beautiful and meaningful.

A stylish living room features a woven coffee table that adds texture and warmth, complemented by a cozy fireplace and abundant natural lighting that enhances the space, while vibrant greenery brings a refreshing touch of nature indoors.

What is Coastal Chic?  

Before diving into specifics, let’s define what makes Coastal Chic unique. Unlike traditional coastal design—which often leans heavily on nautical motifs like anchors and seashells—Coastal Chic takes a more refined approach. It’s about creating a serene environment inspired by nature while incorporating luxurious materials, clean lines, and modern touches.  

The goal is balance: blending comfort with sophistication and simplicity with elegance. Think neutral color palettes, natural textures, and an emphasis on light-filled spaces that feel connected to the outdoors. Coastal Chic isn’t just an aesthetic—it’s a lifestyle that prioritizes relaxation and understated luxury. 

A serene bedroom features an ashy blue rug that adds a soft touch underfoot, complemented by a cozy reading window bench that invites relaxation and enjoyment of natural light streaming in.

The Foundation: A Thoughtful Color Palette  

The color palette is the cornerstone of any interior design project, and Coastal Chic is no exception. The right colors set the tone for your space and create the calming atmosphere that defines this aesthetic.  

This living room features a natural wood coffee table that adds warmth and texture, complemented by beachy decor elements such as light-colored textiles, nautical accents, and art inspired by the sea, all enhanced by abundant natural light that creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

1. Neutrals as a Base  

Neutral tones are the backbone of Coastal Chic interiors. Shades like crisp white, soft cream, sandy beige, and light gray provide a clean canvas that feels open and inviting. These colors mimic the natural hues of coastal landscapes—think sun-bleached driftwood or smooth pebbles along the shore.  

To incorporate neutrals effectively:  

- Paint walls in soft whites or light grays to create an airy backdrop.

- Choose neutral-toned furniture pieces like linen sofas or wooden coffee tables.

- Layer different shades of neutrals (e.g., pairing cream cushions with a taupe throw blanket) to add depth without overwhelming the space.

A cozy coastal bedroom features soft, layered bedding in white and neutral tones, complemented by natural materials like weathered wood and rattan, creating a relaxed and inviting seaside retreat.

2. Subtle Accent Colors  

While neutrals dominate Coastal Chic interiors, the 2025 Palm Beach design aesthetic takes this timeless foundation to new heights by incorporating subtle pops of color and high-end materials. Inspired by nature, soft blues reminiscent of the ocean, muted greens like seagrass, and warm corals evoking sunsets over the water add personality and warmth to these refined spaces. This sophisticated blend of neutral tones with carefully chosen accents captures the essence of coastal charm while embracing a modern, timeless elegance.

Subtle Accent Colors

While neutrals remain dominant, designers are incorporating muted and natural accent colors to add depth and interest (you’ll want to save these):

Soft Neutrals: A harmonious modern coastal color palette incorporates soft neutral. Earthy and warm neutrals are becoming increasingly popular in interior design, offering a sense of coziness and connection to nature. These include shades like beige, taupe, and warm shades of brown. Consider these specific neutral paint colors:

Lacey Pearl (Benjamin Moore OC-62): A subtle and elegant off-white with a hint of warmth, perfect for creating a serene coastal atmosphere.

Stone White (Benjamin Moore OC-50): A warm and creamy white that adds a touch of coziness to coastal-inspired spaces.

Wind’s Breath (Benjamin Moore OC-24): A versatile and warm neutral with a hint of beige, perfect for creating a cozy coastal ambiance.

Moonlight White (Benjamin Moore 2143-60): A soft and ethereal white with a touch of warmth, creating a dreamy coastal atmosphere.

Rockport Gray (Benjamin Moore HC-105): A sophisticated and timeless gray with green undertones, ideal for coastal-inspired spaces.

Oxford White (Benjamin Moore CC-30): A classic and timeless white with a neutral base, suitable for creating a clean and bright coastal interior.

A coastal living color palette combines soft blues and sandy neutrals evoking the serene and refreshing essence of the seaside while balancing tranquility with subtle vibrancy.

Serene Blues: Colors that capture the essence of the sea and sky are crucial in modern coastal design.

Van Courtland Blue (Benjamin Moore HC-145): A tranquil and sophisticated blue-gray hue that effortlessly captures the essence of coastal living.

Providence Blue (Benjamin Moore 1636): A refreshing and calming hue that effortlessly captures the essence of the ocean.

Ice Cap (Benjamin Moore 875): A soft and icy blue-gray that brings a refreshing coastal feel to any room.

Coastal Greens:

Sweet Spring (Benjamin Moore 1500): A soft and delicate green that brings a touch of springtime freshness to coastal modern interiors.

Other Coastal Colors

Alaskan Husky (Benjamin Moore 1479): A cool and contemporary gray with a blue undertone, evoking a calming coastal vibe.

Heather Gray (Benjamin Moore 2139-40): A soft and muted gray with purple undertones, adding a sense of serenity to coastal modern interiors.

These colors are being used thoughtfully in accessories, artwork, and small furniture pieces to create visual interest without overwhelming the neutral base.

Accent Walls are back!

A serene coastal luxury bedroom features a calming blue-gray accent wall complemented by light linens, natural wood tones, and woven textures, creating a tranquil and elegant retreat.

Tips for adding accent colors:  

- Use throw pillows or area rugs with hints of blue or green.

- Incorporate artwork featuring coastal landscapes or abstract pieces in calming hues.

- Add small decorative items like vases or candles in accent colors to tie everything together.

A coastal chic living room features soft blue accents in the pillows and throw blankets, enhanced by abundant natural lighting that creates a bright and inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and comfort.

 3. The Power of Blues  

No Coastal Chic interior is complete without shades of blue—it’s practically synonymous with this style! From pale sky blue to deep navy, blue tones evoke feelings of tranquility and connection to water.  

Consider these ideas:  

- Use blue as an accent wall color in bedrooms or living areas for a bold yet calming statement.

- Opt for blue-and-white striped patterns on cushions or curtains for a classic coastal touch.

- Incorporate blue ceramics or glassware as decorative elements in kitchens or dining rooms.

A naturalist wallpaper adds to coastal decor. The vignette on a table displays a brass monkey accessory, a bowl filled with gold balls, and a slender gold lamp with a white lampshade, adding a touch of glamour to the coastal decor, with rich, grasscloth texture added to the classic furnishings.

Materials & Textures: The Essence of Luxury  

In Coastal Chic design, materials play a crucial role in creating a sense of understated elegance while staying true to the natural inspiration behind this style.

1. High-End Materials  

Luxury doesn’t have to mean opulence—it can also mean quality craftsmanship and timeless appeal. Here are some high-end materials that work beautifully in Coastal Chic interiors:  

This kitchen features light sky blue cabinets that create a refreshing ambiance, complemented by natural wood flooring and abundant natural lighting that enhances the inviting atmosphere.

Marble  

Marble remains a cornerstone of Palm Beach design, prized for its natural beauty and versatility. In 2025, we're seeing marble used in even more creative and luxurious ways:

• Sculptural Elements: Designers are commissioning custom marble sculptures and architectural elements to serve as focal points in living spaces.

• Integrated Lighting: Backlit marble panels in bathrooms and kitchens create a soft, ethereal glow.

• Textured Finishes: Honed, brushed, and leathered marble surfaces offer a more tactile experience and a contemporary edge.

Marble adds an element of sophistication and works well in kitchens, bathrooms, or as accent pieces like coffee tables or sideboards. Opt for white or light gray marble with subtle veining for a softer look that complements the neutral palette.

A charming bathroom features crisp white shiplap walls paired with elegant brass-accented fixtures and lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that blends modern sophistication with classic design elements.

Brass  

Brass continues to be a popular choice for adding warmth and sophistication to Palm Beach interiors:

• Mixed Metals: Designers are combining brass with other metallic finishes like nickel and bronze for a layered, curated look.

• Patinated Finishes: Aged and patinated brass finishes are gaining popularity, adding character and depth to fixtures and hardware.

• Oversized Accents: Large-scale brass elements, such as room dividers or fireplace surrounds, make bold statements in 2025 interiors.

Warm metallics like brass bring subtle glamour to Coastal Chic spaces without feeling over-the-top. Use brass for light fixtures, cabinet hardware, faucets, or even decorative objects like candleholders.

A bright and airy coastal chic kitchen features a spacious island adorned with natural brown rattan bar chairs, elegantly anchored beneath organic, textured pendant lighting that casts a warm, diffused glow across the serene, ocean-inspired space.

Natural Woods  

Light-toned woods such as oak, birch, or ash are perfect for furniture pieces like dining tables, bed frames, or shelving units. These woods evoke the organic beauty of driftwood while adding warmth to your space.

• Flooring: Wide-plank hardwood floors in light to medium tones are popular, European white oak is our current favorite, often featuring sustainable or reclaimed wood options.

• Custom Cabinetry: Bespoke wooden cabinetry with intricate detailing adds character to kitchens and built-ins, often incorporating eco-friendly materials.

• Statement Furniture: Handcrafted wooden pieces serve as focal points in minimalist spaces, showcasing artisanal craftsmanship.

• Exotic Woods: Rich, warm woods like black walnut, iroko teak, mahogany and zebrano add dark sophistication to furniture and architectural details. Pecky cypress, a rare, paler wood and European white oak adds a coastal casual elegance.

Natural wood elements remain crucial in Palm Beach interiors, adding warmth and texture.

A bright and airy coastal chic kitchen features a spacious island adorned with natural brown rattan bar chairs, elegantly anchored beneath organic, textured pendant lighting that casts a warm, diffused glow across the serene, ocean-inspired space.

Handcrafted Textiles

Custom-woven fabrics, artisanal signed hand blocks, vintage batiks to Japanese indigo, Indonesian ikats, and Polynesian batiks to fine Belgium Linens and hand-knotted rugs bring texture and artisanal quality to interiors.

These high-end materials are often combined with more understated elements to create a balanced, luxurious feel that doesn't appear ostentatious. The use of premium materials continues to be a hallmark of Coastal Chic design, with designers incorporating luxurious elements in innovative ways.

A curated collection of interior design texture samples showcases an array of natural materials including smooth stone, warm wood grains, woven rattan, soft wool, rough cork, and organic textiles that highlight the rich tactile qualities and sustainable beauty of natural design elements.

2. Luxurious Textures  

Texture is key in creating depth and interest within a neutral color scheme. By layering different materials and finishes, you can achieve a look that feels rich yet inviting.

Tips for Adding Texture:  

- Choose upholstery fabrics like linen for sofas and armchairs—it’s breathable and perfect for coastal climates.

- Incorporate woven elements such as jute rugs or rattan furniture for an earthy touch.

- Add softness with plush throws made from cashmere or wool.

A flat lay showcasing a fresh, coastal-inspired design plan with moody blues, bright whites, and gorgeous grays

Blending Indoor and Outdoor Living with Biophilic Design

Coastal Chic and Biophilic Design share a common goal: fostering harmony between indoor spaces and the natural world. By combining these design philosophies, you can create interiors that are both luxurious and deeply connected to nature.

1. Blending Indoors & Outdoors

One of the defining features of Coastal Chic is its seamless integration between interior and exterior spaces. Biophilic design enhances this by emphasizing natural light, airflow, and greenery.

How to Achieve This Look:

- Maximize natural light with large windows, skylights, or glass doors. Use mirrors to distribute sunlight evenly across the space.

- Extend indoor materials like wooden flooring or stone tiles into outdoor areas for continuity.

- Incorporate greenery both inside and outside using potted plants, vertical gardens, or pergolas lined with vines.

2. Integrating Natural Elements

Biophilic design focuses on bringing nature indoors through textures, materials, and sensory experiences. Coastal Chic complements this by using organic materials and a calming color palette inspired by the sea.

Ideas for Natural Accents:

- Add plants like fiddle leaf figs or succulents to soften interiors and improve air quality.

- Use decor made from natural materials such as driftwood sculptures, rattan furniture, or stone vases.

- Incorporate water features like tabletop fountains or aquariums to mimic the soothing sounds of waves.

Denise, the lead interior designer at Domaine Luxe, carefully arranges coastal-themed accessories on an outdoor coffee table, adding the finishing touches to a stylish patio design.

 3. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Choices  

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in modern design—and Coastal Chic is no exception! By choosing eco-friendly materials and practices, you can create a beautiful home while minimizing your environmental impact.

Suggestions:  

- Opt for reclaimed wood furniture instead of newly manufactured pieces.

- Choose non-toxic paints with low VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

- Invest in energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting solutions.

By blending Coastal Chic aesthetics with biophilic principles, you can create a home that feels like an extension of the natural world. This approach not only enhances visual appeal but also promotes well-being through improved mood, reduced stress, and a stronger connection to nature. The result is a luxurious yet tranquil space that truly embodies the best of both design philosophies.

Key Design Elements: Achieving the Look  

Once you’ve established your color palette and material choices, it’s time to focus on specific design elements that bring your vision to life.

1. Lighting  

Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood for any room—and it’s especially important in creating an airy Coastal Chic atmosphere.

Rattan Revival

A vintage pencil rattan table with slender, intricately woven lines sits elegantly against deep blue steel cabinets, bathed in soft morning light that highlights its warm, honey-toned weave and mid-century modern design.

Tips for Lighting Design:  

- Prioritize natural light by keeping windows unobstructed during the day.

- Incorporate multiple light sources (e.g., pendant lights over dining tables paired with floor lamps) for layered illumination.

- Choose fixtures made from natural materials like rattan pendants or brass sconces.

A simple neutral, concrete lamp sits atop a wooden side table, complementing a white leather sofa adorned with blue accent pillows, embodying the essence of modern coastal decor.

2. Furniture Selection  

Comfortable yet stylish furniture is at the heart of Coastal Chic interiors.

Recommendations:  

- Invest in oversized sofas with slipcovers—they’re practical yet effortlessly chic.

- Opt for furniture with clean lines rather than overly ornate designs.

- Pair upholstered pieces with wooden accents (e.g., pairing a linen armchair with a wooden side table).

3. Accessories & Decor  

Accessories are where you can inject personality into your space while staying true to the overall aesthetic.

Ideas:  

- Display curated collections such as ceramic vases or framed coastal photography.

- Use decorative pillows featuring subtle patterns like stripes or geometric designs.

- Incorporate mirrors strategically—they reflect light around the room while adding visual interest.

Bedroom Retreat

A serene coastal bedroom showcases a crisp white metal bed frame adorned with a soft blush pink accent pillow, complemented by a textural bamboo-style lamp that adds warmth and organic elegance to the tranquil, beach-inspired space.

Functional Luxury

The 2025 Coastal Chic aesthetic prioritizes both beauty and functionality:

• Multipurpose Spaces: Rooms are designed to be flexible, accommodating various activities while maintaining an elegant appearance.

• Smart Home Integration: High-tech features are seamlessly incorporated into classic designs, offering modern conveniences without disrupting the overall aesthetic.

• Sustainable Luxury: Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems are becoming standard in luxury Palm Beach homes, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainability.

The 2025 Coastal Chic design trends showcase a sophisticated evolution of the area's iconic style, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern sensibilities to create spaces that are both timeless and contemporary.

A stylish bathroom showcases a striking navy blue vanity paired with a pristine white countertop, complemented by a unique coral-inspired mirror that adds a touch of coastal charm.

Symmetry and Balance

To achieve a harmonious atmosphere, the Coastal Chic Aesthetic prioritizes symmetry and balance in its design:

• Mirrored Arrangements: Furniture pieces are often placed in pairs or mirrored configurations to create a sense of order.

• Central Focal Points: Design elements are arranged around a central axis, such as a fireplace or a statement piece of art.

• Balanced Visual Weight: Even when not strictly symmetrical, the visual weight of elements is carefully distributed to maintain balance.

This approach to design creates a sense of stability and elegance, which is particularly effective in formal spaces like living rooms and dining areas.

A cozy living room is enhanced by a charming fireplace that serves as the focal point, inviting warmth and comfort with its rustic mantel and soft seating arrangements, perfect for relaxing on chilly evenings.

Mix of Old and New

The Coastal Chic Aesthetic masterfully blends traditional elements with contemporary design:

• Updated Classic Furnishings: Traditional pieces are reimagined with modern materials or finishes.

• Contemporary Accents: Modern art or lighting fixtures are incorporated to add a fresh, current feel to spaces.

• Textural Contrasts: Smooth, sleek surfaces are paired with rich, textured fabrics to create visual interest.

This combination of old and new creates a dynamic and sophisticated atmosphere that feels both timeless and of-the-moment. It allows for personal expression while maintaining the classic elegance associated with Palm Beach style.

The Coastal Chic Aesthetic for 2025 represents a refined evolution of the area's iconic style. By focusing on a neutral base, emphasizing symmetry and balance, and skillfully mixing traditional and contemporary elements, this design approach creates spaces that are elegant, and harmonious.

A coastal luxury living room combines soft, muted tones of blues and whites with natural textures like driftwood, jute, and linen, creating an elegant and inviting space that captures the serene essence of seaside living through carefully curated furniture, subtle nautical elements, and an abundance of natural light

in conclusion

Coastal Chic design offers more than just beautiful interiors—it provides an opportunity to create spaces that feel calm yet luxurious; relaxed yet refined; connected yet timelessly elegant. By focusing on neutral palettes, high-quality materials, thoughtful textures, biophilic principles, sustainable choices—and most importantly—your personal style preferences—you can transform any room into an oasis inspired by coastal living at its best.

A bright and airy coastal chic kitchen features a spacious island adorned with stylish rattan bar chairs, perfectly complementing the serene ocean-inspired color palette and natural light streaming through large windows.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing an existing space—embracing this aesthetic will help you craft not only stunning interiors but also meaningful connections between yourself & surroundings alike!

Ready to transform your home into a coastal chic haven? My interior design services offer personalized solutions to bring your vision to life. From initial concept to final execution, we'll guide you through selecting the perfect color palettes, sourcing high-quality materials, incorporating biophilic elements, and ensuring a sustainable approach.

Whether you're looking for a complete home makeover or simply want to refresh a single room, we'll work closely with you to create a space that reflects your unique style and captures the essence of relaxed coastal elegance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey to a stunning coastal-inspired interior.