Coastal Modern: Where Minimalism Meets the Shoreline

The new coastal home isn’t about anchors and seashell motifs—it’s about an effortless connection to the landscape. Coastal Modern refines the raw beauty of the shoreline with clean lines, natural textures, and architecture designed to breathe.

Forget the Beach House Stereotypes

This isn’t about slapping white paint on shiplap and calling it a day. The coastal modern aesthetic is about layering natural and manmade elements to create spaces that are both refined and relaxed.

In the book "Coastal Modern: Sophisticated Homes Inspired by the Ocean," first published in 2012, designer Tim Clarke lays out defining principles of the coastal modern style. Here are a few excerpts chosen from the book:

"I try to avoid shapes, colors, and textures that oppose serenity. Though I love modern and contemporary furnishings, objects, and architecture, a coastal modern home is about celebrating nature, not opposing it."

"Coastal modern is meant to find a balance between mechanization and nature. Furnishings should still have those crisp lines inspired by the machine age but should be constructed of untreated, unpainted materials like wood and stone that reveal their true nature."

"The presence of water, whether natural or from a man made source, encourages an inherent tranquility, and often provides inspiration for interior color schemes."

"The benefit or coastal modern design is that it's an accessible approach to creating sustainable environments."

Here are a few examples of Coastal Modern style from our projects:

2025 Trend: The Fisherman Aesthetic

Design is shifting towards authenticity over opulence, and the fisherman aesthetic is leading the way. Earthy neutrals, rich ocean blues, and warm, aged materials quietly reference maritime heritage without resorting to clichés. Think:

Deep, moody color palettes (charcoal, espresso, seafoam) [Country Living]
Raw, timeworn materials like unlacquered brass, weathered teak, and handwoven textiles
Practical design choices built for longevity—because the elements don’t care about trends

Why This Style is Built to Last

Coastal homes endure relentless sun, salt air, and humidity. Coastal Modern isn’t just designed for the environment—it works with it. The best materials here aren’t just beautiful; they’re low-maintenance, naturally aging, and built for decades of wear.

Luxury isn’t about adding more. It’s about knowing what not to add.

Unobstructed Views – Floor-to-ceiling glass, open floor plans, and hidden supports allow the landscape to be the focal point. [Architectural Digest]
A Lived-In, Understated Luxury – Weathered wood, limewashed walls, and soft linen tones create warmth without clutter. [Elle Decor]
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living – Disappearing walls, covered patios, and extended rooflines create a space that moves with the seasons. [Dwell]

Is Coastal Modern style for you? Let us help you bring your new home project to life.