Learn how to nail a coastal interior
So, you’re looking for a coastal style, but want something different to the ever-popular Hamptons?
We’ve got you covered with our modern artistic style.
‘A fantastic alternative to traditional coastal interiors, the modern artistic style fuses watercolour-inspired tones with oaky timbers and lots of texture,’ explains Homebuyers Centre’s Display Designer, Nadija Saluwadana.
‘It’s a peaceful and cosy scheme, that also includes modern and sophisticated elements that’ll appeal to young, trendy families.’
One look at Homebuyers Centre’s stunning Empire 25 display home, and you may think a modern artistic interior design would be tough to execute. But it’s actually easier than you might think, says Nadija. Below, she shows you how:
1. Select a coastal colour palette
First, choose a coastal-inspired colour palette as your base. All Homebuyers Centre customers can choose from six expertly curated colour schemes designed by The Block’s Alisa and Lysandra. At the Empire 25 display home, Nadija chose to compliment the weatherboard cladding of the Newport façade with the Southampton colour scheme.
‘The Southampton’s scheme is inspired by the luxury of New York beach living, with lots of bright whites and soft greys. It’s very stylish and contemporary, while also bringing the relaxed atmosphere of a coastal retreat,’ says Nadija.
‘If it’s within your budget, I suggest upgrading your overhead cabinetry colours and your splashback to include the herringbone mosaic tiles.’
Homebuyers Centre’s Coastal or Adriatic schemes also work well as a base palette, adds Nadija.
2. Insert subdued feature colours
Pick one or two subdued, tranquil feature colours. This is one of the most important steps. Your feature colours are what’ll set this style apart from traditional coastal interiors.
‘Watercolour-inspired hues are what give this interior design its young, fun and artsy aesthetic. At the Empire 25 display home, I used muted blues and greens, and neutral shades of beige as my feature colours. But Dulux’s Coalition or Chinchilla paints would also work well,’ says Nadija.
‘Launch your feature colours through eye-catching watercolour and abstract artworks or a wallpaper mural splashed on the main wall of your bedroom.’
Tie your feature colours into key furniture pieces and décor. Think painted feature walls and coloured bed linen or floor rugs. ‘I love the minty green armchair and light blue dining chairs used at the Empire 25 display home,’ adds Nadija.
3. Pick light timbers rather than dark
Coastal interiors are light, bright and airy, creating peaceful and tranquil spaces. Part of this feel comes from the Southampton’s use of light timber-look materials, such as the Brooklyn Mapleton flooring and Natural Oak Matt benchtops in the wet areas.
Create flow throughout your home by keeping the shade of timber consistent.
‘This includes significant pieces, such as dining or coffee tables in soft oak. You can also use wood-look materials in more understated ways, like including woven white dining chairs with timber legs. Light-weight rattan ottomans or drawers also work well in this style,’ says Nadija.
‘Using natural materials such as timber also helps to connect your interiors to your outdoor living spaces. I love the grand alfresco and landscaping that includes a firepit at the Empire 25 display home. It’s the perfect place to entertain or relax with the family on balmy summer nights.’
4. Add in textual fabrics
Textured fabrics help to create a warm and cosy interior. Just be sure to keep it contemporary. Think light boucle sofas or a corduroy armchair in your chosen feature colours.
‘Don’t be afraid to play around with colour and texture – that’s the beauty of this interior, you can make it your own. I love the multi-coloured modular in the first floor retreat at the Empire 25 display home,’ says Nadija.
‘Just make sure your spaces remain balanced and considered. A good example is the main bedroom in the Empire 25 display home. We used a woven bedhead painted white, balanced with contemporary light fittings. This is contrasted against the light blue side tables and watercolour wallpaper on the walls.’
5. Choose contemporary feature furniture
To keep your home feeling modern, choose contemporary furniture. Avoid any harsh, square corners, says Nadija. Instead stick to rounded shapes and lines, such as kidney-shaped coffee tables, curved armchairs and rounded tv cabinets.
‘Add a bit of Hamptons sophistication by including stone or marble side tables or accessories,’ adds Nadija.
Are you ready to create a modern artistic interior design within your own home?
Get inspired by visiting Homebuyers Centre’s Empire 25 display home in Mt Atkinson. This four-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom display home offers a huge backyard and an artistic interior for families that are chasing that coastal vibe.