How to Design a Coastal Home

Whether you’re after a year-round vacation feeling or a home design that compliments the climate, coastal-style homes are a great option for new builds.

Beach house designs are the perfect match for the Californian laidback way of life, and you don’t need to live a stone’s throw from the beach to enjoy this style of living. Coastal homes can also be adapted to suit your personal style, whether you prefer modern, classic, country or Hamptons.

What makes a coastal home?

Before we launch into our designs, let’s take a look at the specific features that make up coastal homes. Open concept living, neutral and airy colors, natural materials and simplistic design are key to creating a truly coastal feel.

Streamlined design

Simple lines and minimalist architectural features are commonly used in contemporary coastal home builds. Streamlined designs include waterfall benchtops, concealed cabinets, consistent material across the flooring and a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor areas. Less is definitely more in simple beach house designs.

Natural materials, textures and tones

Coastal design elements should seek inspiration from seaside locations. This means incorporating natural tones and textures and building with natural materials such as timber and stone. Interior design, decor and furnishings should also embrace neutral elements to create a cohesive and calming aesthetic.

Open plan living

One of the main characteristics of coastal home designs is an open floor plan. Fewer walls mean less light-blocking, allowing sunshine to fill the room from every angle. Open plan designs are also great for natural airflow, utilizing a fresh breeze as a natural way of cooling the home, making it less reliant on cooling systems in the summer. Bigger windows and glass elements also compliment open-plan living, adding to the light and airy feeling.

FAQs

What is a coastal-style house?

A coastal-style house is one that helps you to achieve a laid-back and relaxing lifestyle. The floor plan of a coastal-style home is carefully considered to ensure an abundance of natural light and cool coastal breezes, and natural building materials such as timber or stone are often used.

How are coastal homes built?

Coastal homes are built with close consideration of location, orientation, layout and the overall flow of the house. Depending on how close your home is to the coast, builders may choose materials that are more durable in coastal conditions, and likely to better withstand the elements over time.

What are the elements of coastal design?

Coastal or beach house designs are characterized by a number of features, including floor plan, materials and colors, natural lighting and plenty of airflow. Furnishing and interior decorating also play a big role in creating an overall coastal atmosphere. Neutral colors, natural textures and minimalist styling are all key to achieving your desired look.

Coastal Homes At G.J. Gardner Homes

Can you feel the breeze in your hair and the sand between your toes? Build a beach house that transports you to a place of serenity. Enjoy all the aspects of a laid-back California lifestyle in your dream home.

If you’re considering a coastal home for your new build, our G.J. Gardner Homes design consultants will happily talk you through our extensive range of beach house floor plans. Our expert knowledge and exclusive home designs will help you build a space that reflects your own personal style.

If you’re ready to take your home design ideas coastal, talk to your local G.J. Gardner Homes office to get started.