Life seems to move at a more relaxed pace on the coast. It has something to do with the peaceful surroundings, which insist that the good things in life take their time and not be rushed. 

Coastal decorating styles take a cue from our tranquil surroundings, bringing elements that reflect the sky, sand and sea into one's living space. If you've found your dream home in Myrtle Beach and want to get the most out of coastal living, you've come to the right place. Our real estate agents are here to share their best coastal style interior decorating tips. 

Take Color Cues From Nature

A wide range of colors can look great when you're decorating in coastal style, but for the most part you'll want to base the look on light, airy tones. To see why, simply glance out the door. Shades of light green, blue, pale gray, sandy gold and tan are everywhere in the coastal environment, and those are the elements you want to bring into your home.

That isn't to say bold colors don't also have their place. A pop of tropical orange, red, yellow or pink can be a welcome accent that adds boldness to the space. But overall, the color scheme should reflect a sense of lightness and calm. 

Emphasize Natural Fabrics and Textures

From furniture and throw pillows to drapes and area rugs, one of the cornerstones of coastal style is an emphasis on natural fabrics. Materials like cotton, linen and jute all have a lightness to them while still bringing earthy textures into the space. Rattan, bamboo and reclaimed wood are also great elements to utilize.

Let There Be Light

Natural light is definitely your friend when it comes to coastal decorating styles. Big, wide-open windows are a staple of coastal architecture, and allowing them to let in as much light as possible will help create a breezy ambiance. 

This will also help you get the most out of the view, especially in the kitchen, bedroom and dining room. Use light, flowy curtains rather than heavy drapes, and avoid doing anything to block your home's windows. Natural-looking window shutters are another great design touch that works nicely.

Be Playful With Mixing Patterns, Colors and Textures

Coastal style provides plenty of opportunities to mix things up and be creative with the ways you combine textures, colors and patterns. For example, the hard lines of white shiplap paneling and a natural wood table create an interesting sense of contrast with woven accents and colorful fabric cushions. See if you can mix patterns within the same color family and layer different textures to create balance.

Don't Go Overboard

Coastal design can slide into cliche if you're not careful. Relying too heavily on decorating with seashells, driftwood, oars, fishing floats and bamboo can start to make your home look an over-the-top parody of a beach house rather than a natural, inviting space. Use your good taste and judgment to decide how much is too much. 

Maximize Your Porch Space

One of the great things about coastal living is the ability to get more use out of your home's outdoor space. A porch can practically be a second living room with an even better view, so decorate it accordingly. A rattan porch swing, a daybed with extra throws, some comfy wicker chairs and light, billowing curtains turn your porch into a place of leisure. 

Contact us today to learn more about coastal living in South Carolina. From design tips to finding Myrtle Beach homes for sale, our agents are here to help every step of the way.