Jersey Shore's Margate City is the third-most in-demand luxury market in the U.S.. Average property prices here soared by 298% over the past four years, from $525,000 up to $2.1 million. A charming coastal town with golden beaches and beautiful views across the Atlantic ocean, it's easy to see why Margate is the dream for many. But, whether you're lucky enough to have a property on the Jersey Shore, or live elsewhere in the mid-Atlantic, it's possible to capture that same bright and breezy coastal feel in your own living room. With thoughtful beach-inspired interior design, you can successfully create a beautiful coastal living room that both soothes and uplifts.
Blue and white are the perfect color pair for airy and authentic coastal-themed interiors. In particular, crisp white walls work well as a bright, neutral backdrop. You can then add pops of various shades of blue through decor, accents, and furniture. For example, a powder blue or seafoam green sofa can be a beautiful way to incorporate color. These lighter shades are soothing, while you can also add thick, textured throws to keep things cozy in the winter. In addition to color, it's important to choose a sofa material that enhances the laidback coastal feel. Linen, for example, offers a relaxed, natural look. If you can't find a sofa that combines exactly the right material and shade of blue, you can always have one custom-made. A custom sofa is designed to your exact specifications, so it matches your ideal beachy style.
Hardwood shiplap panels are a timeless trend that can further reinforce the coastal theme. You can choose to cover all four living room walls in shiplap, or reserve the panels for a single accent wall — either option will add a relaxed elegance to the room. Natural wood shiplap, in particular, looks rustic and works particularly well as an accent wall. Alternatively, you can paint shiplap white if you prefer a more sophisticated look. Shiplap is durable, but should be well-cared for to maintain its longevity. So, wipe it down regularly, and prevent sudden temperature fluctuations as this can warp the wood.
With coastal interiors, you want to bring the outdoors in. That means natural materials typically found on the beach can be used in abundance. For example, pieces of driftwood can provide natural coastal beauty. You may even want to display your own finds from beach walks — driftwood, shells, or stones can be displayed in shallow bowls or glass lanterns and always look wonderful. Alternatively, you can use seagrass baskets for general living room storage. Aside from its lovely organic aesthetic, seagrass is also durable and resistant to moisture, which makes it easy to clean.
When done right, a beachy living room perfectly captures the beauty, freedom, and serenity found on the coast. So, take time to perfect your design, and, once complete, your interiors will instantly transport you to your favorite beaches along the Jersey coast.
