Relaxed, airy, and effortlessly stylish — like a weekend at the beach, every day.
From Bondi to Byron, Australia’s coastlines have inspired more than just travel dreams — they’ve become the heart of one of the country’s most beloved interior design styles: Coastal Chic.
This look isn’t about seashell overload or nautical clichés. It’s all about light, flow, texture, and that relaxed vibe that makes every day feel like a summer escape. Ready to transform your space into a serene coastal haven? Here’s how to do it.
🏡 1. Choose a Calm, Ocean-Inspired Colour Palette
Aussie coastal interiors shine with natural hues and soft tones. Think:
- Sandy beige, driftwood grey, and crisp white
- Accents of seafoam green, navy, sky blue, or coral
- Matte or whitewashed finishes over glossy ones
Zyppo Tip: Stick to two base tones + one accent colour to keep the space cohesive and uncluttered.
🪵 2. Embrace Natural Materials
Coastal chic is all about bringing the outdoors in. Prioritise raw, organic textures like:
- Linen, jute, rattan, and cotton
- Reclaimed wood (think driftwood-style furniture)
- Woven rugs and cane baskets
Furniture picks to consider:
- Rattan armchairs
- A whitewashed timber coffee table
- Jute rugs from Australian brands like Temple & Webster or Adairs
🌞 3. Let There Be Light (Lots of It)
Natural light is essential to a coastal vibe. Open things up by:
- Swapping heavy curtains for sheer linen drapes
- Using mirrors to reflect sunlight and expand space
- Opting for light-toned flooring or rugs to brighten darker areas
Bonus hack: A large mirror with a distressed wood frame adds both beachy texture and space-enhancing magic.
🖼️ 4. Accent with Coastal Decor (Subtly!)
Rather than overt beach-themed items, layer in subtle nods to the sea:
- Art prints featuring waves, boats, seagrass, or abstract landscapes
- Sea glass jars, coral-inspired ceramics, or neutral-toned vases
- Woven baskets for storage or plant holders
Shop local: Check Aussie makers on Etsy or stores like Sea Tribe, Zanui, or Coastal Drift Interiors.
🛋️ 5. Keep Furniture Relaxed & Functional
Think open layouts, soft shapes, and comfort-first. Choose:
- Low-profile sofas in white or beige
- Slipcovered furniture (easy to clean and adds a breezy look)
- Open shelving instead of bulky cupboards
Great Aussie brands to explore:
- Koala (for sustainable lounge furniture)
- Freedom (for coastal-inspired modular pieces)
- Interior Secrets (for minimal, coastal lines)
🪴 6. Bring Nature Indoors
Add life and texture with low-maintenance indoor plants:
- Bird of Paradise, Monstera, or Palm varieties
- Dried pampas grass in tall vases for a neutral statement
- Use ceramic or woven planters in whites, sand, or sea tones
Zyppo Tip: Position greenery near windows or beside seating areas for balance.
🧺 7. Finishing Touches That Elevate the Look
- Layer throws and cushions in breathable fabrics (linen, cotton)
- Use candles with coastal scents like coconut, sea salt, eucalyptus, or sandalwood
- Swap plastic storage for woven baskets or canvas bins
