The Coastal Contemporary Look: How to Bring the San Diego Vibe Into Your Home

In San Diego, the ocean isn’t just a view, it’s a way of life. From the salty breeze drifting through open windows to the laid-back elegance of a beachside brunch, coastal living has a style all its own. At Crest + Cove Designs, we call this Coastal Contemporary, a blend of relaxed comfort, airy elegance, and subtle sophistication.

If you want your home to feel like an endless summer retreat (without it looking like a surf shack), here’s how to bring that coastal charm indoors.

1. Start with a Light & Airy Base

Coastal Contemporary interiors always begin with light, bright foundations. Think crisp whites, sandy neutrals, and the soft grays of weathered driftwood. These tones bounce light beautifully, making rooms feel larger and breezier, perfect for San Diego’s sunny days.

Pro tip: Use matte or eggshell finishes on walls for a soft, diffused glow rather than a stark shine.

2. Layer in Ocean-Inspired Hues

From the deep navy of the Pacific to the aqua shades of La Jolla Cove, blue is the star of Coastal Contemporary. Incorporate it through accent pillows, artwork, or even a painted door for a pop of personality. Keep it balanced, a little goes a long way when you want the space to stay serene.

3. Choose Natural, Textured Materials

Linen, rattan, jute, seagrass, reclaimed wood, these are the building blocks of the coastal look. They bring in that organic warmth that keeps the style from feeling too “catalog perfect.” Even in a sleek modern home, woven textures and raw finishes make the space feel lived-in and inviting.

4. Keep It Minimal but Inviting

Coastal Contemporary isn’t about filling every inch, it’s about letting the space breathe. A few statement pieces (like a sculptural light fixture or a large abstract ocean painting) have more impact than cluttered décor. Negative space is your friend here.

5. Add Subtle Nautical Touches

The key word is subtle. A striped throw blanket, a bowl of collected seashells, or a vintage coastal map can nod to the theme without turning into a beach-themed souvenir shop.

6. Maximize Natural Light

This style thrives on sunlight. Keep window treatments sheer or skip them entirely in spaces where privacy isn’t an issue. Use mirrors strategically to bounce light deeper into the room, bonus points if the mirror’s frame has a coastal texture like driftwood or rope.