A Coastal Retreat: Designing A Beach-Inspired Home
Who doesn't adore the soothing sound of crashing waves, the warmth of the sun on your skin, and the refreshing sea breeze?
It’s no secret that that ocean has a calming effect on us.
Whether you live by the sea or miles away from the nearest shore, you can bring the serene, calming vibes of the beach into your living space.
Colors of the Coast
Think about the soothing hues of the ocean, the sky, and the sand. Soft blues, sandy beiges, and crisp whites are your go-to colors. These tones are not just pleasing to the eye; they also have a calming effect on the mind. You can start by painting your walls in these shades or adding accessories like pillows, throws, and rugs in these colors.
Natural Materials
Nature has a way of grounding us, and using natural materials in your decor can help bring that coastal feel into your home. Think about incorporating elements like jute, wicker, rattan, and wood. These materials add texture and warmth to your space. A rattan chair in the corner of your living room or a jute rug under your dining table can instantly make the room feel more beachy and relaxed.
Shells, coral, and driftwood can be beautiful decor pieces. A bowl of shells on your coffee table or a piece of driftwood on your mantel can serve as a reminder of the ocean and its calming presence. Plants are also a great way to bring the outside in. Think about adding some tropical plants like palms or ferns to your space.
Light and Airy Fabrics
When it comes to fabrics, go for light and airy. Think linen curtains that flutter in the breeze, cotton throws that invite you to snuggle up, and crisp, white bedding that makes you feel like you're sleeping in a beachside cottage. These fabrics not only look beautiful but also enhance the light and airy feel of a coastal retreat.
Indoor Water Features
Integrating a water feature within your home is a beautiful and direct way to invite the water element into your living space. A small tabletop fountain, a wall-mounted waterfall, or a serene fish tank can infuse your environment with the soothing sounds and mesmerizing movement of water. Not only do these features serve as aesthetic enhancements, but they also promote relaxation and tranquility.
Beachy Scents
Consider adding coastal-inspired scents to your home. Choose candles, diffusers, or room sprays with fragrances such as sea salt, coconut, or sandalwood can evoke a sense of calmness and tranquility, enveloping your living space with the soothing essence of the sea.
Ocean-Inspired Artwork
Think about adding beach-themed artwork, such as prints of the ocean or coastal landscapes. Surrounding yourself with paintings, photographs, or even sculptures that depict the energy of the ocean can elevate your space to new depths of serenity. Gazing at a canvas showcasing the gentle ebb and flow of ocean waves can serve as a reminder of our connection to water’s calming energy.
The power and calm of the Ocean’s essence was the inspiration for The Atlantic Collection, a series of original paintings by abstract artist Christina Contaldi. Each composition intricately weaves a journey into nature’s embrace, celebrating the soil, its life-giving organisms, and the oxygen it provides. The artwork evokes a primal connection to Earth’s rhythms, acting as conduits for viewers to tap into their own grounding energy.
View the full collection of original paintings online: The Atlantic Collection
Fine Art Prints of the series now available here.
Low Tide
36 x 36”, acrylic on canvas.
Original painting, hand signed. Maple frame included.
Purchase the original painting online: Low Tide
Framed canvas and paper prints are also available: Low Tide Prints
High Tide
36 x 36”, acrylic on canvas.
Original painting, hand signed. Maple frame included.
Purchase the original painting online: High Tide
Framed canvas and paper prints are also available: High Tide Prints
About the Artist
Christina Contaldi is an American artist based out of New Jersey. She describes herself as multi-passionate, which is reflected in her artwork. She is inspired by both the simplicity and complexity of nature, and layers in parallel nuances from the human experience. Themes like environment, internal worlds, memories, emotions, and spirituality are integrated into her art. She has met many iterations of herself, and is always evolving, as is her exploratory creative expression.
View Christina’s recent work at www.christinacontaldi.com
Email inquiries to info@christinacontaldi.com
Follow her creative process and story on Instagram @christinacontaldiart