Maine Coastal Cottage Style: Interior Design & Decor Tips
Although Violet Marsh Interiors is primarily based in Atlanta, GA, our Maine Cottage and Maine Coastal Cottage projects have become fan favorites, especially on Pinterest. They’re a source of inspiration for anyone dreaming of a seaside retreat that offers laid-back, cozy living. Capturing the coastal cottage style involves combining the breezy atmosphere of the beach with casual elements that make a home feel inviting and comfortable. If you’re interested in achieving this sought after style in your home, here are the guidelines we follow when infusing our projects with coastal cottage vibes:
Choose Summer-Friendly Upholstery
When selecting fabrics and upholstery materials, think of what you’d wear on a warm summer day. Opt for cottons, lightweight knits, canvas, and linen, which bring a sense of lightness and ease to your interiors. Slipcovers can be particularly effective, adding to the relaxed vibe while offering practicality and flexibility in your decor.
Embrace Coastal Colors
Color palette is key to nailing the coastal cottage look. Draw inspiration from the seaside by incorporating hues like sunny yellows, soft neutrals like the sand, and shades of blue that echo the ocean. Complement these with airy whites, creating a serene and balanced environment.
Go for Casual, Asymmetrical Pieces
In a coastal cottage, formality takes a backseat. Select items that are casual and informal, opting for asymmetrical arrangements and pieces that feel more relaxed and approachable. This doesn’t mean your space should be haphazard, but rather thoughtfully unstructured.
Incorporate Woven Textures & Stripes
Woven textures and stripes are staples of coastal cottage style. Consider using materials like wicker, jute, sisal, and rattan for furniture, rugs, and decorative accents to bring in natural, earthy elements. These textures add warmth and a tactile contrast to your interiors. Pair them with stripes of any size, whether on throw pillows, rugs, or even wallpaper, to add a subtle nautical touch. Together, these elements create a balanced and cohesive look that reflects the laid-back charm of seaside living.
Add Glass, Coral, and Organic Wood
To create balance, combine see-through, blown glass vessels with the natural beauty of oversized, organic coral and organic woods that mimic the look of driftwood. The glass pieces will reflect light and add airiness to the space, while the coral and driftwood-inspired accents bring in a touch of the sea's raw charm. This combination adds contrast in texture and light, creating visual interest that feels both sophisticated and naturally beautiful.
Select Coastal Artwork & Memorabilia
Art and memorabilia are essential to completing this style. Consider watercolors of seaside flora and fauna, serene landscapes, or black-and-white beach photography to evoke the calmness of the ocean. For a personal touch, explore Etsy or your local antique or consignment shops for nautical-themed items like ships, anchors, or beach-related objects. These pieces not only reinforce the coastal theme but also add character and a sense of history to your space, making it uniquely yours.
Incorporate Shiplap Wall Paneling
Shiplap wall paneling is the epitome of a coastal aesthetic. It adds depth and texture to your walls while reinforcing the timeless charm of coastal living. Whether you choose to cover an entire room or just an accent wall, shiplap is a classic choice that will never go out of style.
Interested in working together on your interior design project? Violet Marsh Interiors specializes in modern, warm interior design in Atlanta and along the East Coast. Book a consultation call to get started.
Join the Party.
We promise not to bother you too much, but if you’d like to be alerted to new before & after blog content, please submit your details below.
