How to achieve a coastal interior design aesthetic
29 Jun 2023
If you’re inspired by the Australian coastline and wish to bring that relaxed and refreshing vibe into your home, you’ve come to the right place. The key to achieving a coastal interior design aesthetic lies in the right choice of materials, especially timber. Incorporating timber into your coastal design can offer both functionality and an authentic seaside charm. In this article, we will explore the best timber for coastal interior design, the benefits of using timber in coastal interior design, and the best timber flooring for coastal interior design.
The best timber for a coastal aesthetic
When it comes to coastal design, the guiding principle is to create a space that mirrors the elements found in nature at the beach. This is where timber comes into the picture. Timber is a natural, sustainable material that brings warmth, texture, and an earthy tone that complements the coastal aesthetic.
In particular, light-coloured timber species, such as Oak, are a popular choice. Oak's naturally light to medium brown colour with a prominent grain pattern can beautifully mimic the sandy beaches and rugged cliffs of the Australian coastline, bringing a sense of the outdoors into your home.
HW2130 Allevard PurePlank Timber Flooring | Sunday Homes, NSW
Using timber in coastal interior design
Timber can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the coastal aesthetic of your home. From timber flooring to feature walls, furniture, and even ceiling beams, the options are limitless.
Timber flooring, for instance, is a classic choice for coastal homes. It not only provides a warm, natural base for the rest of your interior design but also offers practical benefits. Oak, as a hardwood, is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for areas that see a lot of traffic. Moreover, its easy maintenance and timeless appeal add value to your property, making it an investment that pays off in the long run.
HW3823 Amazon Wide Plank Timber Flooring | Palm Beach Home, NSW
Finding the right timber flooring
Here at Havwoods, we offer a variety of oak flooring options that suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the benefits our products can bring to your project:
European Oak Flooring:
European oak flooring, made from oak trees grown in Europe, has a slightly different colour and grain pattern than American oak. It lends itself well to traditional or rustic coastal design styles, adding character and depth to your space.
Engineered Construction:
Engineered oak flooring consists of a top layer of real oak wood glued to a plywood or fiberboard base. This type of flooring is less susceptible to warping than solid oak flooring, making it a more stable choice for coastal homes. It's also pre-finished, which means it does not require finishing on-site, saving you time and money on installation.
Extensive Colour Range:
Havwoods have over 200 timber flooring products to choose from and in particular, colours and tones particularly suited to achieving that coastal aesthetic for your interior design. Colour tones to consider for creating the perfect coastal inspired interior are:
When choosing the best timber flooring for your coastal home, it's important to consider the unique conditions that come with coastal living. This includes factors like exposure to sunlight, humidity, and sea air, which can all impact the performance and appearance of your flooring over time.
HW3573 Ryde Herringbone Timber Flooring | Caves Palms Residence, NSW
Maintenance tips for your coastal timber floors
Once you've installed your beautiful oak flooring, you'll want to keep it looking its best. Oak is a stunning flooring material and taking good care of your floors means you can enjoy them for longer. Here are some maintenance tips:
Sweep or vacuum regularly: Like any natural wood flooring, sweeping or vacuuming regularly will keep your oak flooring looking great.
Wipe up spills immediately: Any type of wood flooring can warp or bow if exposed to too much liquid. Removing large amounts of liquids immediately will mean a longer life for your floors.
Use a damp mop or a specialised wood flooring mop for deep cleaning: Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage your floors.
A coastal interior design aesthetic can be achieved by thoughtfully using timber in your interiors. Light-coloured, durable timber like oak can help create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that echoes the beauty of Australia's stunning coastlines. Whether it's through flooring, furniture, or architectural elements, timber can be the perfect material to bring the seaside into your home.
Additional design elements to consider
Now that you’ve covered the best timber flooring options for your coastal home, it’s time to turn your attention to other elements to help bring your coastal home to life:
Embrace light and brightness: Coastal interiors focus on utilising as much natural light as possible. White paint can transform your space, reflecting light brilliantly and giving off a vibe of a larger and brighter space. The brighter, the better for that coastal look.
Choose the right doors and windows: Your windows and doors play a crucial role in letting in outdoor air and light. Consider options that open wide, such as bi-fold windows or French doors.
Furniture and Decor: Incorporate natural materials and textures such as timber accents, rattan furniture, and raw-looking carpets like loop pile wool carpets or beautiful rugs. These elements help to evoke a beach house feel.
Colour Palette: When choosing a colour palette, think of the beach and ocean. Shades of blue and green against a backdrop of crisp whites and neutrals can beautifully capture the coastal aesthetic.
HW3577 Auburn herringbone timber flooring | Talm Beach House, NWS
