The coastal vibe is light and airy with plenty of relaxing elements throughout the home. However, overdoing the theme and decor can put a large dent in your budget and leave your home feeling “overdone.” Here are a few ways to incorporate a brilliant, relaxed coastal theme while staying within budget:
Invest in a natural rug
Natural fibers are less expensive than their synthetic cousins and they’re also durable enough to stand up to wear and tear. Jute holds up well indoors, as does sisal, and they’re perfectly at home near the ocean. If you’re starting with the rug as a base, opt for one in a neutral tone to make it easier to match the rest of the furniture and accessories.
Don’t overthink your color scheme
Choosing items in blue and white, also known as the colors of the the sea and froth, doesn’t have to be cliche. If your household can be a little messy, prioritize easy-to-clean fabrics. This could be as simple as adding a slipcover to your existing furniture to mix up the hues.
If you want to branch out with your accent pieces, try amber, gray or green. These popular colors mean more options, which can help you keep within your budget.
Limit your accessories
Accessories are often where people spend their budget. Sometimes they don’t even realize it. Beachy knickknacks can really add warmth and personality to a space, but try buying only accents with special value to you or the other residents in the home.
When selecting each object, consider how it will interact with the larger space. For instance, smaller rooms may benefit from a mirror, as it will allow the room to reflect more light and color. Lamps make the space brighter and can be particularly welcome when shadows are cast during the day.
Think used or found items first
There are plenty of consignment stores filled with items in great condition, perfect for giving your home a chill coastal vibe. You can also turn found objects into your next great accent piece. A piece of interesting driftwood, the biggest seashell on the sand or sea glass with a unique pattern are all free and make for great conversation pieces.
Creating a coastal-inspired interior isn’t just about personal style—it can also be a strategic move when preparing your property for the market. Homes with bright, airy, inviting interiors often attract more buyers and generate more interest online. Coastal décor, even in small doses, helps showcase your home as clean, modern, and move-in ready.
If you’re planning to sell your home or want to stage it for future showings, simple improvements like natural textures, neutral tones, soft blues, and organic materials can help buyers emotionally connect to the space. These design touches make rooms feel more open and peaceful, which aligns with the lifestyle many Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia buyers are looking for.
As your local real estate professional, I help sellers understand which updates provide the highest return—and coastal simplicity is one of the best low-budget upgrades you can make.
Final Thoughts
Coastal decorating is about creating a space that feels calm and effortless, without overspending or overwhelming your interior. By incorporating natural fibers, simple color palettes, thoughtful accessories, and even repurposed materials, you can achieve a beautiful beach-inspired look that works for daily living and helps your home stand out in the market.
Whether you’re redesigning for yourself or preparing to sell, a fresh coastal theme can elevate your home’s appeal and increase buyer interest.
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Thinking about selling your home or transforming your space before listing?
I can help you understand which design improvements will attract more buyers and increase your home’s market value.
Contact Gregory Gray, Realtor
Washington D.C. • Maryland • Virginia
Schedule a consultation today and let’s elevate your home’s potential.
