Inspiration

Published 4 June 2024 | Last Modified 29 May 2025 | Emily Sims

A Wiltshire Welcome With a Coastal Colour Palette

Situated in the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is this converted barn. With interiors that reflect the surrounding chalk downland and the expansive blue skies for which Wiltshire is known, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the beach is just a few steps away.

Despite being miles inland, the soaring ceilings, wooden beams and crisp, white walls and relaxed coastal decor give an instant sense of interior paradise. Below, our experts share how they created this look.

Start With Your Colour Palette 

The simplicity of the colour palette – off-whites, blues and natural wood tones that highlight the impressive network of beams – make the space feel immediately tranquil. Nothing in this home feels out of place. Each piece has been carefully chosen to blend into a cohesive aesthetic, reflecting the same shades and forms throughout.

Coastal furniture made from natural materials adds an influx of warmth. Rattan, cane and wood turned to look like bamboo complement the dark blue tones. Wood types differ between the undulating spindles on a smooth coffee table to the rustic details on the armchairs, side tables and wardrobes, but the similar shades bring them together. 

Use Casual Furnishings 

When dealing with a large open space, one way to partition areas is by laying down rugs. Here, they have been used to separate out two dining areas. One is more casual, featuring an intimate round table topped with pillar candles in glass and rattan holders. The other delineates a spot for formal dining on a rectangular table with china that matches the coastal decor colour scheme.

The pops of navy blue and terracotta add vivacity to an otherwise neutral palette. While the subtle presence of nautical stripes nods to the high summer aesthetic. The space is grounded by the foliage that decorates every corner and surface. Serving as a gentle reminder of the building’s true countryside location, these green stems soften the interiors, and draw the eye to the view through the large windows. 

Mix Materials in a Coastal Bedroom 

In the bedroom, mixing and matching materials through cushions and bedding, headboards and trunks is another great way to bring textural cosiness. Try using the same upholstery across different pieces of furniture to create a cohesive element. Break it up with soft furnishings in colours drawn from the pattern or the opposite side of the colour wheel for the perfect complement.

There are so many ways to style surfaces and walls, from hanging prints to propping art and mirrors for a more laid-back appearance. Lamps not only add a design element, bringing colour and pattern, but when the changing skies move from dawn to dusk, switching on accent, ambient light lends intimacy to a space.

Ornaments such as vases and other decorative pieces also add interest and a personal touch that turns a house into your home. Amongst your personal pictures of holidays gone by, choose items that fit the nautical narrative. Neutral or blue planters and jugs or quirky pieces like rattan turtles will give your space a fun, holiday-like feel. 

Create Your Own Seaside Space 

Whether you’re close to the coast or not, you can bring the holiday fun into your living space with help from our experts. From finding the right furniture to creating a cohesive colour scheme, get in touch to find out how our interior design service can help you bring coastal decor into your home.