How to Achieve the Coastal Grandmother Look

Working within the right color palette is key to getting this style right. When people hear the word coastal, they immediately think navy and white. But coastal grandmother is more creamy white and pale blue. You can incorporate touches of navy, but the majority should be softer and more muted. “Think sea glass tones,” says Kate.

When shopping for new accessories like throw pillows and artwork, look for muted seaside colors woven throughout. Start with accessories because they’re low commitment. If you end up not liking an item, you can always donate it to charity or give it to a friend.

Coastal grandmother style features crisp linens and layered textiles. It’s also washed in natural light. “Swapping out heavy curtains for something that is lighter and breezier is an easy swap that can help dip your toe into the coastal grandmother style,” says Kate. 

Curtains made with cotton fabric in an off-white shade will open up your space and let the light in. Hang curtain rods close to the ceiling and choose rods wider than the window to let in the maximum amount of light and make the room feel grand.

Lighting can play a big role in the atmosphere of the room. The fixtures you choose can make your space feel stark or cozy. One easy change is replacing the shade on a table lamp for one with texture like seagrass or linen to add warmth. 

If your room needs more light, try adding a pair of sconces. Choose something with a timeless shape in brushed nickel or matte gold to add a luxe element. Install the sconces on your wall, but leave the wires tucked in the back. Use the puck light trick and install a remote-controlled light inside the fixtures to any avoid tricky hardwiring. This lets you make sure you like the change before going all in.

You might think adding anchors and tons of seashells is the way achieve coastal grandmother chic, but it’s actually the opposite. “That’s not to say those things are bad, but coastal grandmother style is a more elevated style that can be at the beach, but you can also bring that mentality anywhere,” says Kate. 

Adding coastal hints is great, but you don’t want your living room to look like a beachside souvenir shop. Gravitate towards décor with natural materials, like bleached wood candle holders, but make sure everything has clean lines and a classic look. A few shiny seashells in a bowl on your bookshelf is fine, just don’t go overboard. We’re striving for coastal grandmother, not Tommy Bahama.

Incorporating baskets made of jute or rope is an easy way to nod to the coastal element without being full-on nautical. A pair of woven baskets are great for hiding clutter, storing extra blankets or can be used as a planter. 

Choose baskets with a mixture of warm and cool tones to tie in all the elements in your space. The woven material will help add texture and warmth next to crisp curtains and a light color palette.