What the heck is the Coastal Grandmother Decor trend?

And no, it doesn't mean you're old or have grandchildren....

The term “Coastal Grandmother” was first used by Tik Tok influencer Lex Nicoleta describing a fashion aesthetic which has now spilled over into interiors.  Think of the beach house in the Nancy Meyers film “Something’s Gotta Give”, which was the true star of the movie, and you’ll have the essence of Coastal Grandmother (aka Coastal Grandma).
 
While it has a rebranded name, this style is nothing new.  As humans we’ve always been drawn to the beach and ocean views, it’s literally in our DNA.  The calming sounds of waves rolling onto shore, the fresh sea breezes, the textures and colours of the seaside have always stirred our souls and relaxed our minds.  Bringing this feeling into our interiors creates a harmonious home which has a tremendously positive impact on our mental well-being.  So read on to see how you can include elements of the Coastal Grandmother Decor Trend in your own home.
 

Breezy Rattan chairs and seagrass placemats are evocative of The Hamptons.  An extension table with a wood pedestal base means that a crowd can be fed at this beach house.  Blue cushions pick up the colours of the ocean and shells on the plates add that natural touch.  

mixing classic and traditional elements in a coastal theme

Coastal Grandmother is a home decor trend that combines the classic and traditional elements with a coastal theme. It is a mix of vintage furnishings, coastal materials, and beachy accents. The color palette is characterized by muted tones such as soft blues, greens, and neutrals that evoke the feeling of the sea and the sand. The overall look of the trend is cozy, warm, and inviting, with a nod to nostalgia for the past. 

Key elements of the Coastal Grandmother Trend

Some key elements in a Coastal Grandmother-inspired living space may include antique furniture, heirloom pieces, wicker baskets, seashells, and natural materials like wood, jute, and linen. The style is functional, comfortable, and relaxed, making you feel like you’re on vacation without even leaving the house.

Now this doesn’t mean you have to run out and spend a fortune.  This ottoman was a great Facebook Marketplace find.  And seashells and driftwood are free!  Learn how to make a beautiful Oyster Shell garland.  

This buffet is an old antique that I gave a new lease on life with Fusion Paint and updated the hardware with Sailors Knot knobs.  The Coral Lamps were a gift from a friend.  Framing the nautical chart reflects light and is a conversation starter.  

Other elements include:

Soft fabrics such as relaxed Roman Shades in the bedrooms give a Coastal Grandmother vibe.  Flowers on the bedside table and candles add the important element of scent. 

Tile in a beachy colour – this simple subway tile mimics the waves of the ocean and is set in a traditional yet timeless herringbone pattern.  Note how the appliances match the tile?  I couldn’t resist.  

Comfortable bar stools pick up on the natural texture of the dining chairs yet are different so that there is more interest.

A beachy colour palette is an essential element of the Coastal Grandmother style

Various shades of white with watery blue accents embody the Coastal Grandmother palette.  The painting over the fireplace pulls together all the colours of the room, creating a cohesive and relaxing design.

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Photo credit: LSP Media