Use the beach as inspiration for a laid-back dining room.
Whether you live near the beach or inland---using the beach as an inspiration for your home decor is an ideal way to bring the sun and surf inside. Provide your dinner guests with a laid-back environment to enjoy a dinner party by designing your dining room with elements that are commonly associated with the beach---from colors to fabrics.
Wall Color
Color helps set the stage for any room design. For a beach-inspired dining room, choose colors that reflect what you would see at the beach for your walls. There are several options to choose from. For a neutral yet warm wall color, opt for tan or beige that calls to mind the color of sand. For a cooler neutral, a crisp white that evokes a nautical feel is an option. Turquoise blues and sea greens reflect the colors of the ocean and sky and bring a tropical vibe to the space. For a bold color choice, choose cobalt blue or emerald green.
Architectural Elements
Add beach cottage charm to your with architectural elements. Whitewashed, maple or cherry wood wainscoting hung on the bottom portions of your walls offer different looks for the space, yet all lend themselves to a beach look. A slated white wood ceiling is reminiscent of a beach bungalow. White or light wood crown molding offers a distinctively sophisticated coastal appearance.
Furnishings
The furnishings you choose for your beach-themed dining room make the difference between a formal and a casual space. If you are seeking to create a space that is laid-back and relaxed, opt for a large whitewashed or unfinished wood table with matching wood benches flanking either side for seating. For a more formal look, choose a glass-topped table accompanied by overstuffed upholstered chairs in gingham or tropical floral print fabrics.
Floor
Even the ground you walk on can help to transform the look of your dining room. Wide planked natural wood flooring is one option to give your dining room a beachy vibe. Large travertine or slate tiles are also common floor materials used in beach decor. Add softness and warmth underfoot by placing a plush shag or throw rug in a sand color.
Coastal Accessories
Finish off the look of the space with accessories. Place bamboo or large leafy plants in oversize vases and set them on the floor in corners of the room. Create a centerpiece for your table by filling glass candle holders with beach glass and coconut-scented candles. Display coral, starfish and driftwood on wall shelves. Hang paintings of beach landscapes on the walls. If you're up for the challenge and don't object to pets, a tropical saltwater fish tank makes a bold statement.
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