How To Create A Cosy Coastal Home Interior

Wondering how to cosy up your coastal style home? We look to Soul of Gerringong, a guesthouse on the south coast of NSW, for inspiration.

For us, the words 'coastal style' conjure up images of summer time, sunshine and seaside-inspired finds, so how does one cosy up their beachy abode when winter rolls around?

Cosy coastal style is not a contradiction! It can be easily achieved through layering, introducing texture and expanding your colour palette from cool blues and fresh whites to deeper ocean-inspired hues and natural materials to add warmth.

Soul of Gerringong, a newly refurbished guesthouse on the south coast of NSW, is a shining example of how to create a cosy coastal interior that oozes warmth and character. The perfect place to cuddle up, winter or summer, Soul of Gerringong masterfully combines classic coastal style with a rustic cottage vibe, making it a comfortable and inviting place to be all year round.

To help you bring a cosy, cool-weather feel to your space Simone Mathews, owner of Soul of Gerringong and a stylist in her own right, shares her top tips for taking coastal style into the cooler months.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHAT ‘COASTAL STYLE’ MEANS TO YOU?

Coastal style means bringing elements of the outside into your home, blurring the lines between the indoors and outdoors, and creating a space that connects harmoniously.

This style is as much about the look as it is the feel. We associate the ocean with relaxation and sand between our toes. It is about creating an unassuming pared-back 'look and feel' to any space.

WHAT ARE THE KEY ELEMENTS OF A COASTAL INTERIOR?

Texture, texture and more texture! This really is the essence of a coastal interior. Think timber floors against panelled walls, curtains, and other elements like a stone fireplace. Natural light is also key to this look. Try to incorporate heightened ceilings wherever possible.

A palette of a crisp white ensures that relaxed, simplistic look associated with a coastal interior decorating. Pale blues do work, but today it is more about the combination of white, natural timber tones and a touch of black for a more subdued and cosy coastal look.

Adding greenery also helps, bringing the outside feel to your interior, and the colour green really lifts a space.

HOW CAN BREEZY COASTAL STYLE BE CARRIED THROUGH INTO THE COOLER MONTHS?

Window treatments are important both for their function and form. Soft sheer curtains add to the texture of a space, and when paired with a block out curtain, allow warmth to be retained inside.

Where possible, a fireplace is a perfect inclusion for winter for a cosy experience. If it's not an option, an outside fire pit can work just as well. Guests always tend to gather around the fire.

Switch up your cushions in winter, with some textured boho and knitted cushions teamed with an oversized throw; think warm greys and even adding some autumn inspired colours in your choices.

SIMONE'S COSY COASTAL STYLING TIPS

Layering is the key to coastal style through winter.
Drape some warm throws on your sofas and chunky bed covers over your bed.
On the floor layer your rugs, add a rug with some warmth underfoot to your natural fibre rugs.
Add furniture and décor pieces with natural timbers to help add a sense of warmth.