Rustic Beach House and Coastal Decor

Summer is in full bloom so naturally we are dying to get to the beach, enjoy the sun, and work on a fresh tan. But mixing it up this season, try splitting your time between public beaches and a private getaway. The summer season is the perfect time to enjoy a vacation rental. Or, if you are blessed, you can even have your own rustic beach house to enjoy the moment.

Yep, we mean quaint little beach houses. Think little houses or bungalows with weathered furniture. But don’t stop there! Add some driftwood sculpture, handmade dining tables, and blue and white motifs. Sound corny? Or maybe it sounds just right. After all, the schema is a classic and for good reason. This is a serious recipe for chill. In this article, we’ll share a few ideas to help you shop the look. We’ve spent our summers in a number of perfect coastal homes with gorgeous rustic beach furniture and decor. And we recommend it. So check out this guide toto get your space in shape for summer.

Find Your Rustic Beach House

Where’s the best place to find a secluded spot with beach access? After all, we aren’t referring to condos here. First we have to set down some ground rules. After all, rustic beach furniture and decor aren’t going to amplify down-home charm if there isn’t any there to begin with.

Start with an old beach house or bungalow, because these sorts of homes have the details you are looking to emphasize. So look for bead board wainscoting, exposed studs, and floral designs in the old styling. Also, consider white washing any of the built in cabinets. Or you can emphasize the pickled wood that defines the character of these old spaces. Obviously, you’ll want large windows, for a great view of the beach and surrounding environs.

Rustic Beach Decor for the Perfect Summer

Now that you have the perfect spot, you need to find the perfect furnishings. Start with the large pieces, like dining tables and a sofa. Antiques, thrift store finds, and hand me downs can gain new life with a little refurbishing.

Consider a new linen upholstery that captures the coastal feel. Next, you’ll want to accessorize. Driftwood is a popular accent for a home with rustic beach furniture. But be sure to include a few unexpected items as well, to add dimension. Finally, consider adding some plant life. This will help bridge the gap between inside and outside, and get your guests moving to the beach.

Make Your Own

Here’s a tip to make any furniture beach worthy. First, find a wood piece with a simple style. Federalist-style furniture works particularly well. Then, paint it one uniform color that gives it a beachy look. You don’t have to limit yourself to white. I like a sea-foam green. There’s certain shades of blue too that just scream beach house.

Now paint the entire wood furniture piece one color. Let it dry. Then take sandpaper, like 200 grit, and rough up the edges. Just a bit – scrape it up and make it look a little loved. Like it has been painted that color for a decade.

Now wax the whole thing. Yep, wax it and polish it. Now you have a fully weather resistant piece of furniture that looks great both inside and outdoors.