There’s something magical about stepping into a home that feels like a seaside retreat. The gentle sway of the curtains in the breeze, the light filtering through soft shades of white and blue—it’s as if the ocean is just beyond the windows. I’ve always believed that window treatments are the unsung heroes of interior design. They frame your view and, when done right, can completely transform the atmosphere of a room.
I still remember the first time I decided to give my living room a coastal refresh. I swapped out my heavy drapes for sheer, airy curtains in a crisp white fabric. The change was immediate—the room felt lighter, brighter, and infinitely more serene. Now, let me take you through the art of styling your home with coastal-inspired window treatments to bring the tranquility of the seaside into your space.
Why Window Treatments Matter in Coastal Decor
Window treatments are more than functional—they’re a design statement. In coastal-inspired homes, they serve a dual purpose:
- Control Natural Light: Coastal decor thrives on light, open spaces, and window treatments help you filter sunlight without blocking it completely.
- Add Texture and Layers: Natural materials like linen, bamboo, and woven shades bring the perfect touch of organic texture to your space.
- Complete the Coastal Look: The right window treatments can tie together your coastal color palette and decor elements.
Choosing Coastal-Inspired Window Treatments
1. Opt for Sheer, Light Fabrics
Sheer curtains are the hallmark of a coastal aesthetic. They create an ethereal, breezy feel while allowing natural light to flood the room.
- How to Style: Choose fabrics like lightweight cotton or linen in white, cream, or soft pastel hues.
- Pro Tip: Hang them high and wide to make your windows appear larger and create a more open feel.
2. Incorporate Natural Materials
Natural materials like bamboo, rattan, or jute perfectly capture the organic feel of the coast.
- How to Style: Use woven shades or Roman blinds made from bamboo for a casual yet polished look.
- Pro Tip: Layer natural shades with sheer curtains for added texture and versatility.
3. Use Coastal Colors
Coastal-inspired window treatments should echo the hues of the sea, sky, and sand.
- How to Style: Choose curtains or shades in colors like:
- Soft blues and aquas
- Sandy beige
- Crisp whites
- Subtle greens
- Pro Tip: Stick to a neutral base and use colored treatments sparingly to avoid overpowering the room.
4. Try Striped Patterns
Stripes are a timeless choice in coastal decor, evoking nautical themes and beachside cabanas.
- How to Style: Use vertical or horizontal stripes in soft shades like blue and white or beige and cream.
- Pro Tip: Stripes can elongate windows or ceilings, creating the illusion of height or width.
5. Add Layering for Depth
Layering window treatments allows you to balance light control with style.
- How to Style: Combine natural woven shades with lightweight drapes for a breezy yet functional look.
- Pro Tip: Use a double curtain rod to layer sheer curtains in front of blackout drapes for added flexibility.
Coastal Window Treatments by Room
1. Living Room
The living room is the heart of the home, and coastal-inspired window treatments can make it feel open and inviting.
- Use sheer white curtains to maximize natural light.
- Pair with bamboo shades for a natural texture.
- Opt for floor-length drapes to create an elegant, elongated effect.
2. Bedroom
In the bedroom, privacy is just as important as style.
- Layer sheer curtains with blackout roller shades to control light and ensure restful sleep.
- Choose calming pastel tones or neutral fabrics to create a serene retreat.
- Use tiebacks for a relaxed, casual feel during the day.
3. Kitchen
For coastal-inspired kitchens, practicality meets charm.
- Use woven Roman shades or faux-wood blinds for easy maintenance.
- Opt for café curtains in a light linen or cotton fabric for a quaint, seaside feel.
- Choose treatments in subtle stripes or solid pastels to complement coastal cabinetry and countertops.
4. Bathroom
Bathrooms benefit from window treatments that can handle moisture while maintaining a coastal aesthetic.
- Choose faux-wood blinds or water-resistant woven shades for durability.
- Add frosted window film with a wave pattern for privacy and style.
- Stick to light and airy fabrics to maintain the open feel of a coastal space.
5. Dining Room
The dining room is the perfect space to experiment with texture and patterns.
- Use striped drapes or light linen curtains to frame the windows.
- Pair with natural shades for an earthy, beach-inspired vibe.
- Add curtain tiebacks made of rope or driftwood for an extra coastal touch.
Picture Gallery
Styling Tips for Coastal-Inspired Window Treatments
1. Go for Floor-Length Curtains
Floor-length curtains instantly elevate the space and create a seamless look.
- Use lightweight fabrics like linen for a casual yet elegant effect.
- Keep them slightly puddled on the floor for a relaxed vibe, or hem them just above the floor for a cleaner look.
2. Embrace Rope Details
Add coastal flair by incorporating nautical-inspired accents like rope tiebacks or curtain rods with seashell finials.
3. Frame the View
If your windows overlook the ocean or lush greenery, let the view shine! Opt for minimalist treatments that frame the window without obstructing the scenery.
4. Use Double Curtain Rods
Double rods make it easy to layer sheer curtains with blackout panels, giving you flexibility in both style and function.
Conclusion
Styling your home with coastal-inspired window treatments is one of the easiest ways to bring the serenity of the seaside into your space. Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of sheer white curtains or the natural textures of bamboo shades, the right treatments will set the tone for a tranquil, breezy atmosphere.
When I look at my coastal-inspired windows now, I’m reminded of the calm and peace that only the ocean can bring. With every pull of the curtain or tilt of the shade, you too can create a space that evokes the beauty and relaxation of the coast—no matter where you live.
FAQs
1. Can I use blackout curtains in a coastal-inspired room?
Yes! Pair blackout curtains with sheer layers to maintain the airy feel of coastal decor while providing light control when needed.
2. What is the best material for coastal-inspired window treatments?
Natural materials like linen, cotton, bamboo, and rattan work beautifully in coastal interiors.
3. How do I keep coastal window treatments from looking too themed?
Stick to subtle, organic details and avoid overly literal elements like anchors or seashell patterns.
4. Are striped curtains a good choice for coastal decor?
Absolutely! Striped curtains in soft blue, beige, or white add a classic nautical touch to your coastal space.
5. What’s the best way to layer window treatments in a coastal home?
Combine natural woven shades with lightweight drapes or sheer curtains for texture, depth, and light control.
About the Author
M.Arch. Julio Arco is an architect, interior designer, and urban planner with degrees from ITESM, McGill University, and a certificate in Architecture in Urban Context from LDM. Julio has designed interiors for over 1,200 clients and also teaches architecture at ITESM.
His go-to sites for inspiration include Houzz, Apartment Therapy, HGTV, Architectural Digest, and The Spruce.