20 Coastal Farmhouse Ideas for a Serene, Beach-Inspired Home in 2025
If you’re craving the calm of the coast but also love the cozy, rustic feel of farmhouse decor, then coastal farmhouse style could be the perfect blend for your home. This style mixes airy, beach-inspired elements with the warmth and charm of farmhouse decor, resulting in spaces that feel inviting, serene, and a bit rustic. Whether you live by the ocean or just want to bring that beachy feel into your space, here are 20 ways to transform your home into a coastal farmhouse oasis.
1. Embrace a Neutral, Light Color Palette
The foundation of coastal farmhouse decor starts with a soft, neutral color palette. Think whites, creams, light blues, and sandy beiges that evoke the serenity of the shore. Choose natural wood tones and soft hues for furniture and accents to keep your space feeling light, open, and inviting.
2. Incorporate Natural Materials
For a true coastal farmhouse vibe, use natural materials like jute, wicker, and driftwood. Jute rugs, wicker baskets, and linen cushions all add texture and warmth to the room, creating a cozy but breezy feel. Look for untreated or lightly treated wood for an authentic farmhouse touch.
3. Add Shiplap Walls or Ceilings
Shiplap is a farmhouse staple and works beautifully in coastal farmhouse decor. Use shiplap on walls or ceilings to create texture, then paint it white or a soft gray for a coastal effect. Shiplap pairs well with exposed wooden beams, enhancing the rustic charm while keeping the look clean and coastal.
4. Opt for Open Shelving in the Kitchen
Replace bulky cabinets with open shelving to create a light, airy feel in your kitchen. Display coastal-themed dishware like blue and white ceramics, glass jars filled with shells, and natural wood accents. This approach keeps things casual and welcoming, making your kitchen feel like the heart of a coastal farmhouse.
5. Choose Distressed or Weathered Furniture
Select furniture with a weathered or distressed finish for added character. Whitewashed woods and slightly chipped paint finishes add personality without sacrificing elegance. Mix in pieces with both light and dark wood tones for a layered, rustic look that feels lived-in and timeless.
6. Add Nautical Accents
Nautical accents like rope mirrors, anchor motifs, or striped throw pillows give a gentle nod to the sea. Be subtle with these details to avoid an overly themed look. A few nautical accents can bring in that coastal vibe while maintaining the classic, understated charm of farmhouse decor.
7. Choose Coastal-Inspired Lighting
Opt for lighting fixtures that are both functional and stylish. Rattan or bamboo pendant lights bring a natural element, while glass lanterns or hurricane lamps evoke a beachy, laid-back feel. Coastal-inspired lighting creates a warm, welcoming glow that’s perfect for evening relaxation.
8. Use Sea Glass and Shell Accents
Sea glass and shells are iconic coastal accents. Place them in jars, bowls, or vases for a simple yet beautiful display. Whether scattered on a console table or used as fillers in clear containers, these natural elements help bring the beach indoors.
9. Bring in Greenery and Coastal Plants
Nothing says coastal farmhouse like a touch of greenery. Choose coastal-friendly plants like potted palms, succulents, or even small potted cacti. Displaying plants in woven baskets or clay pots keeps the farmhouse feel intact while bringing life and color into your space.
10. Incorporate Coastal Farmhouse Art
Decorate your walls with artwork inspired by the coast. Beach scenes, ocean waves, and sandy dunes are popular choices. Use frames in distressed wood or whitewashed finishes to keep the look cohesive and authentic to the coastal farmhouse aesthetic.
11. Keep It Simple with Minimalist Decor
Avoid clutter by sticking to a few carefully chosen decor pieces. This simplicity is key to achieving an open, breezy vibe that mirrors the peacefulness of the coast. Look for decor that is both beautiful and functional, adding a sense of calm and intentionality to your space.
12. Choose Slipcovered Furniture
Slipcovered furniture, especially in light, neutral colors, fits perfectly with the coastal farmhouse style. Slipcovers give your space a relaxed, beachy look while being practical and easy to clean—ideal for households that want both comfort and durability.
13. Layer Coastal Textiles
Add cozy layers with throws, cushions, and rugs in coastal-inspired hues. Soft blues, grays, and whites keep the look fresh and light, while linen or cotton curtains enhance the overall breezy feel. Layering textures makes your space feel cozy without sacrificing its light, airy atmosphere.
14. Create an Outdoor Space with Coastal Vibes
Design a cozy outdoor area where you can relax and unwind. Use rattan or wicker furniture for durability and style, and add coastal-themed cushions and throws for comfort. String lights or lanterns help set a warm, inviting mood, perfect for coastal evenings.
15. Use Whitewashed or Weathered Wood Elements
Whitewashed or weathered wood adds a beachy, rustic touch to furniture and decor. Look for pieces like coffee tables, picture frames, and shelving in this style to create a unified, coastal farmhouse look. Weathered wood elements are timeless, bringing warmth and texture into the space.
16. Decorate with Glass Bottles and Coastal Jars
Glass bottles and jars in shades of blue and green create simple, elegant decor. Display them on shelves or tables, or use them as vases for wildflowers. Glass accents evoke the colors of the sea and are a lovely way to add a splash of coastal color.
17. Choose Coastal-Inspired Patterns
Patterned textiles with coastal motifs like stripes or chevrons add subtle visual interest. Striped or geometric patterns in cushions, rugs, and blankets bring in a bit of nautical flair without overpowering the room. Mix and match with solids in neutral colors to keep things balanced.
18. Incorporate Rustic Metal Accents
Rustic metals like wrought iron, aged brass, or galvanized steel bring a farmhouse touch to your coastal decor. Use these materials in lighting fixtures, picture frames, or small decor items to add a vintage-inspired, industrial feel that complements the rustic charm of the farmhouse style.
19. Get Creative with DIY Decor
A few DIY coastal decor projects can add a personal touch to your home. Create a driftwood mirror frame, shell garlands, or a rope-wrapped candle holder. Handmade pieces bring warmth and individuality, making your space feel uniquely yours.
20. Add Ocean-Inspired Scents
Complete the coastal farmhouse atmosphere with candles or diffusers that evoke the scents of the ocean. Look for fragrances like sea salt, eucalyptus, or coconut, which create a fresh and calming environment that enhances the coastal feel. Display candles in glass or wooden holders for a beautiful finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
The coastal farmhouse style combines the best of two popular decor trends, offering the serene, airy vibes of the coast with the warmth and charm of farmhouse decor. Whether you’re adding nautical accents, whitewashed wood, or beachy textiles, each of these 20 ideas can help you create a cozy retreat that feels just like a beach getaway. Dive in, experiment with these tips, and transform your home into a calming coastal farmhouse haven.