How to: Bring the beach home with a coastal inspired scheme

Designer adviceShowersBathsSustainable bathrooms

6 Aug

Imagine stepping into your bathroom and feeling like you’re instantly transported to a tranquil seaside retreat. By incorporating coastal elements into your bathroom design and decor, you can create a relaxing sanctuary that captures the calming atmosphere of the sea. Here, Neil, Senior Designer at *Ripples Bath, shows you how to bring the beach home.*

Incorporating coastal colours, natural materials and nautical touches into your bathroom scheme can help transform it into a serene oasis that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re starting from scratch or simply looking to refresh your existing space, these design elements and decorative ideas will help you bring the beach home.

Design elements

Coastal colour palette

The foundation of any beach-inspired bathroom starts with the right colour palette; think soft blues, sandy beiges, crisp whites and seafoam greens. These hues mimic the colours of the ocean, sand and sky, creating a soothing and airy atmosphere in your bathroom. Consider using lightly-coloured tiles for the walls and floors, paired with white or light wood cabinetry to keep the space feeling open and bright.

Natural materials

To evoke the feeling of being by the shore, incorporate natural materials into your bathroom design. Opt for driftwood-style finishes on vanity units and shelving and use stone or pebble accents in shower niches or backsplash areas. The key is to choose materials that have an organic, weathered look so bamboo or rattan accessories also work well.

Nautical brassware and fixtures

Opt for brassware with a nautical touch. Matte black or brushed nickel finishes work well for taps and showerheads, while rope or shell-inspired drawer pulls on vanity units and storage drawers add a subtle nod to the seaside. Pendant lights with a woven design or scalloped edges will also help you embrace the nautical theme but in a sophisticated way.

Open and airy layout

A beach-inspired bathroom should feel open and breezy. If space allows, consider installing a glass shower enclosure to maintain sightlines and let natural light flow through. Freestanding bathtubs with a sleek, modern design can also add to the spa-like ambiance. Keep clutter to a minimum by incorporating plenty of storage solutions, such as built-in shelving or recessed niches.

Decorative ideas

Seashell accents

Seashells are quintessentially beachy and are having a real moment in the world of interior design right now. Whether you opt for seashell-printed towels or scalloped-edged lamps, they’re the perfect whimsical addition to a coastal-inspired scheme.

Nautical textiles

Choose textiles that enhance the coastal aesthetic, such as towels, bath mats and blinds in shades of blue and white and of course with a timeless nautical stripe. Consider incorporating textures like waffle weaves or soft linens to add a touch of luxury and comfort.

Scented candles and diffusers

An often overlooked area of bathroom decor is the scent of the room. Scented candles or diffusers with fragrances like coconut or salt air can instantly transport you to the beach. Place them strategically around the room to create a subtle, inviting aroma which will enhance the overall ambience of your bathroom/

Greenery

Adding a touch of greenery can breathe life into your beach-themed bathroom. Choose plants that thrive in humid environments, such as ferns, spider plants, or orchids. Place them in woven baskets or ceramic pots to enhance the natural, coastal look.