How to Create a Coastal-Style Bathroom: Your Guide to a Serene Retreat
When choosing a theme for your home’s bathroom, it’s hard to go past coastal style. As well as being a gorgeous and flexible design choice, this particular aesthetic brings a sense of calm and serenity to one of the few spaces in the world where you can be truly alone — the bathroom. Whether it’s a five-minute loo break or a luxurious everything shower, who doesn’t want to feel tranquil and relaxed after a bathroom visit?
If you’re keen to create your own coastal bathroom oasis, look no further — we’ll show you how.
What is a Coastal-Style Bathroom?
A coastal-style bathroom captures the essence of the seaside — think light and airy, natural textures, and a colour palette inspired by the beach. This style is all about creating a space that feels open, relaxed and connected to nature.
The Perfect Coastal Colour Palette
The colour palette of your coastal bathroom should be inspired by the hues of the beach. Soft blues and greens reflect the colours of the sea, while sandy beiges and crisp whites evoke the sand and sea foam. These colours work together to create a space that is both calming and invigorating. Use these colours in your tiles, wall paint and bathroom accessories to create a cohesive and inviting space.
Choosing the Best Tiles for Your Coastal Bathroom
Tiles are the cornerstone of any bathroom design. At TileCloud, our Coastal Collection offers a range of tiles curated to perfectly capture the coastal vibe. Consider tiles that are soft blue, travertine-look or sandy beige to mimic the colours of the sea and shore.
Accessorising Your Coastal Bathroom
Accessories play a key role in bringing the coastal theme to life.
Towels: Opt for plush towels in shades of blue, sandy beige, dusty orange or white. Towels with stripes or wave patterns can also act as a nod to the nautical theme.
Candles: Scented candles with fragrances like ocean breeze or sea salt can add to the sensory experience.
Bath Mats and Rugs: Choose bath mats and rugs in coastal colours or textures that mimic the beach, like a soft, sandy beige.
Artwork and Wall Decor: Adding artwork that depicts beach scenes, marine life or nautical themes is a quick and easy way to enhance the coastal atmosphere. Wall decor can include framed beach photos or canvas prints.
Light Wood Tones: Use light wood tones for cabinets or shelving — this adds warmth and complements the coastal colour palette.
Tapware: Select fixtures that are simple in design but high in quality — we recommend brushed brass finishes for that easy-breezy yet refined look.
Woven Baskets: Woven baskets are not just practical — they also add a natural, beachy feel. Use them for storing towels and toiletries or as plant holders for greenery.
Greenery: Introduce potted plants or hanging greenery to bring life and freshness to the space. Plants like ferns or small palms can thrive in the humid bathroom environment, adding a splash of vibrancy to the space.
Lighting in a Coastal Style Bathroom
Lighting plays an underrated role when it comes to creating the perfect coastal-style atmosphere. It’s all about keeping things soft and subtle — harsh, stark overhead lighting is the quickest way to kill the mood. Here are our top tips for creating that coveted dusky glow in your bathroom.
Natural Light
- Maximising Sunlight: Utilise large windows or skylights to bring in as much natural light as possible. This not only brightens the space but also helps to create a connection with the outdoors, reminiscent of the open, airy feel of the coast.
- Sheer Window Treatments: Use sheer curtains or blinds that allow sunlight to filter through while providing privacy. These treatments can soften the light, preventing harsh glares and creating a gentle, diffused illumination that enhances the tranquil mood of a coastal bathroom.
- Reflective Surfaces: Incorporate mirrors and other reflective surfaces to bounce natural light around the room, making it feel more spacious and calm.
Warm Artificial Light
- Soft, Warm Glow: Choose light fixtures that emit a warm, soft light. This type of lighting mimics the golden hues of a beach sunset, contributing to a cosy and relaxing atmosphere.
- Layered Lighting: Use a combination of overhead lighting, wall sconces and potentially even a small, decorative lamp to create layers of light. This approach allows you to adjust the lighting to suit different moods and times of the day.
- LED Options: Consider LED lights for energy efficiency. LEDs are available in a range of colour temperatures, so you can choose a warmer hue that complements the coastal theme.
- Dimmer Switches: Installing dimmer switches gives you control over the intensity of the light. Being able to dim the lights in the evening can create a more relaxed and intimate setting.
- Natural Material Fixtures: Select light fixtures made from natural materials like wood, rattan or frosted glass. These materials can add to the overall aesthetic of the bathroom while providing a warm light source.
- Task Lighting: For areas like the vanity, use task lighting that is functional but not too harsh. Wall-mounted sconces on either side of the mirror can provide even, flattering light for grooming or make-up time.
Whether you're renovating your existing space or designing a new one, we’re here to help you create a coastal-style bathroom that's not just a space, but a sanctuary. Take a look at our coastal collection or coastal style sample pack and start your journey to a serene bathroom retreat today.