January 20, 2020

10 Ways: Big Coastal Style In Small Spaces

10 ways to get big design in a small space. Coastal tips to make your small beach house feel bigger with style.

10 Ways: Big Coastal Style In Small Spaces

1. Slipcover sectional sofas. Sometimes bigger in a small space works better. A offers lots of seating without crowding the room.

2. A large mirror. A mirror creates the illusion of more space and adds light to the room by reflection.

3. Area rug. Anchor your space and tie it together with a . Adding an area rug to your room will make those white slipcover sofas pop, making the space feel bigger than it is.

4. Built in furniture. When possible, building your furniture into the room will give you more space to work with.

5. Ocean colors. Pull the ocean inside by with seaside hues, it will blur the boundaries of your coastal space.

6. Inside out. It goes both ways, just as easy as you can pull the outside elements in, you can extend your indoors by using your living room. This creates an extension of your space.

7. Big Design. Make big design impact with color & patterns. Don't be afraid of patterns and prints, they will add style and interest in your decor. Your space will feel bigger from the importance your bold design choices create.

8.Seating. Use ottomans and stools in your design, they take up less space and can tuck away when needed. This offers multiple, ample seating choices for your guests, making everyone comfortable- no one will notice the size of your place.

9. Hanging day beds. Suspending your furniture off the floor creates an illusion of more space. These hanging day beds are a beautiful coastal design, making your area comfy and fun.

10. Multi use furniture. This Kitchen/Dining Room banquet functions as a bench in a breakfast nook, dining seating and a sofa to lounge on. Making the most of your peices is key in small spaces.


10 ways to get big design in a small space. Coastal design tips to make your small beach house feel bigger with the right 

Choosing the right accent chair for a beach house is about more than style — it’s about comfort, durability, and how the piece works within a relaxed coastal space. The best accent chairs combine soft, livable materials with timeless design, creating seating that feels effortless and easy to use every day.
This guide covers how to choose accent chairs for a coastal home, what materials work best, and how to create a cohesive living space using pieces that are both functional and elevated.

What You'll Learn in This Guide:

  • What makes a great accent chair for a beach house
  • Which materials work best in coastal homes
  • How to choose the right style and size
  • How to pair chairs with sofas, rugs, and tables
  • Which accent chairs work best for everyday living

What Makes a Great Accent Chair for a Beach House?

A well-chosen accent chair should feel comfortable, durable, and visually balanced within the space.

Look for:

  • Soft, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton
  • Durable construction for everyday use
  • Neutral or coastal-inspired tones
  • Shapes that feel relaxed rather than overly structured

The goal is a chair that looks beautiful but is also used daily.

Slipcovered Accent Chairs

Slipcovered chairs are one of the best choices for coastal homes because they are:

  • Comfortable and relaxed
  • Easy to maintain and clean
  • Ideal for homes with kids, pets, and everyday use

Woven & Natural Material Chairs

Chairs made from rattan, wood, or woven materials add texture and depth.

  • Adds natural, organic feel
  • Works well in layered coastal spaces
  • Pairs beautifully with neutral palettes

Upholstered Coastal Chairs

Upholstered chairs in soft fabrics provide:

  • Additional comfort
  • More structured seating
  • A polished coastal look

How to Style Accent Chairs

Accent chairs should feel like part of the room — not an afterthought.

Pair with:

This combination creates a space that feels layered and complete.

How to Choose the Right Size

  • Ensure the chair fits proportionally within the room
  • Leave enough space for movement
  • Pair with the right scale of sofa or sectional

One oversized chair often works better than multiple small pieces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing style over comfort
  • Selecting materials that don’t hold up to daily use
  • Going too small for the space
  • Overmatching instead of layering textures

Shop the Look

Why We Love It

Accent chairs are one of the easiest ways to complete a room.

  • Adds comfort and flexibility
  • Creates balance in seating areas
  • Introduces texture and personality
  • Works across casual and more refined spaces

Big Coastal Style

In Small Spaces
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