California Coastal Living

Drop a pin on a map anywhere in Northern California and you’re already close to water – an important element in luxury home design. Today I’m sharing a few aspects of California coastal style that will make your spirit soar!

Neutral Color & Texture Palette
The coastal color palette is simple, light and breezy. Create a foundation with neutrals, then layer in some pops of color, such as the traditional navy blue and white, or a fun turquoise. Texture is also considered a key neutral element here, with use of wood, bamboo, rattan and other natural materials adding to the textural feeling.

Sun, Sand, Surf, and Outdoor Dining
Use all your senses to recall those magic moments, by bringing in the basics of water, sand, wind, and sun to your design. Indoor-outdoor dining is a key element here, year-round. If you don’t always have the best weather, pull that breezy feeling indoors, as in this Cape Cod-inspired kitchen.

Let Light In
Coastal designs blur the line between indoors and out – plenty of windows, glass doors and skylights, all essential elements that allow light and the sunshine to flood in. To fake it, add lamps and sconces, place a glass-topped table in a sunny breakfast nook or mount a mirror opposite a window. Trade in heavy draperies for light fabrics, or take down the curtains altogether and replace with simple shades. The hallmark color of a coastal home is white, because it allows light to bounce and dazzle.

If YOU want to refresh your home in the coastal style, contact Kimball Starr to make your ocean retreat a reality.