17+ Coastal Living Rooms With A Contemporary Feel
When you think of coastal living rooms, you might picture soft blues, sandy neutrals, and breezy, beachy vibes.
But the coastal aesthetic doesn’t have to be all about seashells and heavy driftwood.
You can bring the calming and serene feel of the coast into your living room while maintaining a contemporary style that’s fresh, clean, and effortlessly chic.
Here are 17+ tips and ideas to help you design a coastal living room with a modern edge.
1. Neutral Base Colors with Bold Accents
A key feature of contemporary coastal design is balancing neutral base colors with bold accents.
Instead of drenching the room in blues and whites, focus on a more muted, sophisticated palette—think shades of gray, soft whites, and earthy tones.
Use bold accent colors, such as deep navy, terracotta, or emerald green, to add interest and vibrancy.
Pro Tip: If you want a true coastal feel without overwhelming the space, stick to a light, neutral background and introduce bold colors through your accessories—throw pillows, artwork, or rugs.
2. Embrace Clean Lines with Minimalistic Furniture
Contemporary style is all about clean lines and simple, sleek furniture.
Look for low-profile sofas and minimalistic coffee tables that don’t take up too much visual space.
Wooden elements are key, but instead of the rustic driftwood style, opt for light oak or teak furniture with a polished finish.
Personal anecdote: I once redecorated my beach house living room by swapping out bulky furniture for a minimalist sectional.
The change instantly made the room feel larger and more open—like the whole space was breathing again.
3. Incorporate Natural Materials with a Modern Twist
Contemporary coastal style loves natural materials like wood, stone, and woven textiles, but they’re reinterpreted in modern ways.
Exposed beams, reclaimed wood furniture, and natural stone are still part of the vibe, but clean, polished finishes and angular designs keep it feeling current.
Instead of an overly rustic wooden coffee table, look for sleek wooden tables with a smooth finish, or a stone sculpture for a pop of texture.
Woven rattan or wicker pieces can also work if done in refined, streamlined styles.
4. Large Windows and Natural Light
The coastal lifestyle is all about embracing the outdoors and bringing in as much natural light as possible.
Large, floor-to-ceiling windows or sliding glass doors are essential to a contemporary coastal living room, letting sunlight flood in and offering unobstructed views of the outside world.
If privacy is a concern, opt for sheer curtains or minimalistic blinds that won’t block too much light but still offer coverage.
Quick stat: A survey in 2024 showed that 82% of homeowners renovating coastal-style rooms prioritize natural light and open windows for better connection to nature.
5. Use of Art and Decor to Bring the Ocean In
Incorporating coastal art doesn’t have to mean oversized seashell prints or fisherman’s nets.
Instead, look for abstract paintings, black-and-white photography, or fine art prints that evoke the ocean through subtle colors and shapes.
You might find a photograph of a rocky coastline, abstract waves, or even a simple beach landscape in muted tones that feels both contemporary and connected to the coast.
Pro Tip: Artwork doesn’t have to scream “beach.” Instead, think about the feel you want to convey—peaceful, soothing, and connected to the natural world.
Subtle pieces often work best in modern settings.
6. Neutral and Soft Textures
Textiles are where the magic happens.
Coastal design thrives on soft, breathable materials like linen, cotton, and wool that evoke the feeling of being on a coastal retreat.
But to keep the style modern, use textures that are refined and sleek.
Throw blankets, pillows, and cushions should be made from natural, organic materials, but opt for clean, structured patterns instead of heavy embroidery or overtly nautical themes.
Knitted throws or soft, brushed cotton pillows add a sophisticated touch without veering into kitsch.
Personal anecdote: One of the best ways I’ve found to balance coziness and modern design is with linen cushions.
They’re soft, breathable, and add texture to my contemporary coastal space without feeling too fussy.
7. Statement Lighting
Lighting is one of the most important elements in any room, and in a coastal living room, it can help to enhance the airy, bright vibe.
For contemporary coastal living rooms, statement lighting fixtures are the way to go.
Think about oversized floor lamps, modern pendant lights, or chandeliers made from natural fibers.
For a modern twist, go for fixtures in sleek metallic finishes, such as polished chrome or matte gold.
Quick tip: If you’re in a coastal area, look for solar-powered or energy-efficient lighting options to maintain an eco-friendly aesthetic.
8. Open Shelving for a Light, Airy Look
Incorporating open shelving into your living room creates an inviting, open feel.
Instead of bulky cabinets, opt for open shelves in natural wood or minimalistic metal shelving to display a curated collection of books, plants, and small coastal-inspired décor.
Be mindful not to overcrowd the shelves. Keep them clean and simple with only a few pieces that capture the essence of coastal life.
9. Large, Comfortable Sectionals
Contemporary coastal living rooms are meant to be lived in, and that means comfortable seating is a must.
Look for large sectional sofas that allow for lounging and stretching out.
Choose upholstery in light, neutral fabrics like linen or cotton that evoke a sense of relaxation.
Pro tip: A sectional sofa with a modular design allows you to rearrange the seating based on your needs, which is perfect for both small and larger spaces.
10. Subtle Coastal Accents
If you love the coastal vibe but don’t want your living room to scream “beach house,” then subtle accents are your secret weapon.
Think of small touches like a glass vase filled with sand, a simple driftwood sculpture, or a pair of coastal-inspired candles.
Instead of piling on seashells and anchors, incorporate natural elements in restrained ways that complement the contemporary feel.
Anecdote: I once used a simple blue-green vase with sea glass as a centerpiece on my coffee table.
It provided the perfect amount of coastal charm without overwhelming the space.
11. Eco-Friendly Materials and Designs
As the world becomes more conscious of the environment, eco-friendly furniture and décor have taken center stage in contemporary coastal design.
Look for pieces made from sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, or recycled fabrics.
Opt for eco-friendly paint for your walls and low-VOC furniture for a healthier, greener living room.
12. Indoor Plants and Greenery
Incorporating plants into your coastal living room is essential to bringing life and freshness into the space.
Choose low-maintenance plants such as snake plants, pothos, or succulents for a clean, modern look.
Consider placing plants in sleek modern planters made from ceramic, concrete, or matte finishes to keep the aesthetic contemporary.
13. Minimalistic Coastal Rugs
Rugs in a contemporary coastal living room should be simple, geometric, and textural.
Opt for woven rugs in neutral tones or bold, geometric patterns for a more modern touch.
Avoid overly ornate designs, which can clash with the sleek aesthetic.
Pro Tip: A neutral jute rug with clean lines can bring warmth and texture to a modern coastal room while staying true to the contemporary style.
14. Natural Stone and Marble Accents
Integrating natural stone or marble accents into your living room adds both elegance and a touch of the coastal landscape.
Marble coffee tables, stone sculptures, or even a stone fireplace can elevate the space without feeling overdone.
15. Sleek Modern Fireplaces
A modern, minimalist fireplace can anchor your coastal living room while maintaining a clean and contemporary look.
Opt for linear fireplaces or wall-mounted units with a polished finish.
This approach can provide the warmth of a traditional fireplace but with a contemporary twist that complements your coastal aesthetic.
16. Sculptural Furniture and Accessories
Add interest to your living room with sculptural furniture pieces—think angular coffee tables, unique chairs, and even artistic wall hangings.
These pieces don’t have to be bulky; a simple, sculptural side table made from wood or metal can add a modern touch to the space.
17. A Seamless Transition to Outdoor Spaces
A contemporary coastal living room feels even more expansive when it flows seamlessly into outdoor spaces.
Large sliding doors or windows that open up to a deck, patio, or balcony allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
For continuity, consider matching indoor and outdoor furniture or using similar textiles and colors for a harmonious transition.
Designing a contemporary coastal living room is all about balance—natural materials, sleek lines, and airy spaces combined with the warmth and tranquility of the beach.
These ideas will help you create a modern, stylish space that brings the essence of the coast into your home while maintaining a chic, contemporary feel.
Now, get started, and turn your living room into a coastal-inspired retreat you’ll love!
