How To Add Coastal Touches to Your Summer Home
Today let’s learn how to add coastal touches to your summer home, whether it be an apartment, rental home, dorm, or the home you own. This is my tiny summer home tour!
HOW TO ADD COASTAL TOUCHES TO YOUR SUMMER HOME
Welcome to the Bloggers’ Best Summer Home Tour hosted by my dear friend Kelly from The Tattered Pew!
Kelly and I have known each other for several years now, since we met each other at my very first Haven Conference. She recently moved into a new-to-her-home and has been having fun adding her own decor touches to the home. It’s lovely!
Speaking of lovely, if you are visiting her from Yvonne’s home at StoneGable, welcome! Yvonne is one of my dearest friends and I had the time of my life visiting her in Pennsylvania this past fall! She’s also my decorating hero!!!
Are You New Here?
If you are new to My Wee Abode, you can take a look at my About page to learn some ‘little’-known-facts about me, my family, and my home. (Although, I need to update the page since I recently moved!)
And, I’d LOVE for you to become a My Wee Abode ‘family’ member and receive all the hot news from MWA first! PLUS, you will get INSTANT ACCESS to our free printables library! Just click on the button below.
My Tiny Summer Home Tour
I’m thinking I should be saying my “tiny home summer tour” because this tour is going to be anything but small.
For those that don’t know, My Wee Abode has had a recent transformation.
Well, actually, it’s a completely NEW My Wee Abode! Get the full story by visiting the Who, Where, What, and Why of My Wee Abode 2.0.
Suffice to say, this is the first post sharing some of the fully decorated areas of the new My Wee Abode, so we’re talking a big tour… not a small one. 😉
So, let’s start the tour and get some tips and inspo for how to add coastal touches to your summer home.
This post may contain affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, see my complete disclosure HERE.
Add Coastal Summer Decor to Your Tiny Entry
Let’s start at the beginning, shall we?
I’m talking the front door and entry way to My Wee Abode.
Y’all… I ACTUALLY have a little entryway!
This is still a work in progress, however, I did give my aqua coat hanger a quick update with some paint. Tutorial coming soon!
I purchased a wooden round mirror that reminds me of driftwood and has the look of a porthole without actually going “overboard”. It adds some texture and depth, and it’s practical for a quick makeup and hair check as you go out the door.
Instead of a candle, I filled a white summery lantern with some coastal-vibe filler in grays and whites. And the cotton blanket in neutral tones reminds me of the beach, as well.
The bench is great for a seat to slip on my shoes, and works as a great storage item, too!
Now, take a look at our huge walkway into the living area!
Yep, that is a pantry wall on the right! It’s amazing, to say the least! And this huge walkway is perfect for my disabled mom who lives with me.
These ceilings are a bit low here, but the living and dining area actually has vaulted ceilings!
Apartment Living Area with Coastal Decor Touches
As you enter from the front door, this is what you see.
My living area and dining room combination are MUCH bigger than MWA-OG.
Though I normally wouldn’t have a recliner like this in my home, it is a necessity for my mom. Thankfully, the color is neutral and the fabric is nice.
The side table came with my mom, as well. Truth be told, this is usually scattered with her Bible and devotionals along with activity books to help her keep her mind ‘moving’.
For a coastal element, add some books that coordinate and include colors that remind you of the ocean or beach. For example, use interior design books with aqua and pink spines.
This table is on the list for a makeover as the colors are not quite right for My Wee Abode.
Adding an arrangement with faux lamb’s ear in a live edge wood container adds a bit of coastal style. But, adding the starfish next to it on the table really gives a nice ‘nod’ to the beach and ocean.
Add Touches of the Coast to Your Coffee Table
Remember, you don’t need LOTS of ‘stuff’ on the surfaces in your home. Keeping decor limited and neutral gives your home a light feel and welcomes the summer season.
My round coffee table seems a bit dwarfed in this area, compared to the loft apartment, but it will have to do for now. 😉
Pop a faux plant into a white pot and elevate it with a tiny pedestal, as shown here. Take a weaved tray, add a shell and DIY aqua bead garland, and you’re set for the summer!
This is my devotional right now. I can’t recommend it enough. Ruth Chou Simons of GraceLaced is a fave author and artist of mine!
Tiny Summer Home Tour with Coastal Decor in the Dining Area
I actually have a dining area, y’all!!! (As a reminder, this was lacking in the loft apartment.)
This table acts as my remote work desk, as well. If you look closely, you can see the drawers that are in the table (against the wall), as well as another drop leaf. The drawers are super practical for work!
I can comfortably sit six at the table… if I had six chairs! For now, these comfy chairs from IKEA are sufficient for Mom and me, and I love that this area has the highest ceiling area.
AND, with both leaves dropped, this works great for another conversation area.
Using a galvanized tray with twine wrapped on the handles, I added some driftwood, as well as some sage and white candles. Driftwood is another great way to add coastal style to a dining room.
Coastal Decor On a New TV Console
The TV console is the only new piece of furniture that I have purchased since moving into My Wee Abode 2.0. And I love it!
It matches our LVP floors and the storage is perfect for us! Assembly took me about 2 hours, by myself… with NO mistakes! Will miracles never cease?!
This wooden bowl was my souvenir purchase from Pennsylvania last fall. I almost didn’t buy it, but I’m so glad I did as it’s a staple piece of decor now in MWA.
Last summer, I picked up this cute little sandpiper at Hobby Lobby. I still love it, and I’m sure it will be used in my decor for years to come!
Using different fillers in your seasonal decor is easy, and it’s a great way to add texture and interest to your home.
This enclosed weaved basket from IKEA is a great place to hide the media remotes!
Setting a starfish and a sand dollar on top of the basket adds another summery coastal touch.
DIY Cabinet with Coastal Elements
And last, but not least, my newest DIY cabinet is all gussied-up for the summer season.
The weaved basket underneath the shelf reminds me of the coast, but will look great and work well for holding more interior design books throughout the year.
Some pretty yellow daisies in an aqua demijohn adds some color that coordinates with my summer pillows.
The pretty heart-shaped wooden candle holder was a gift from my blogging bestie, Crissy from First Day of Home. It reminds me of driftwood!
Summery Coffee Station
Okay, I lied… the cabinet isn’t the last area on the tour today.
When we moved to MWA 2.0, I knew there was no place to put my portable island in the kitchen. But, I just couldn’t part with it!
So, a coffee station it is!
The area directly under the kitchen counter that opens to the living area has turned out to be the perfect place for a coffee station. There’s even an outlet right behind the cart!
And even though I don’t have anything coastal decorating this area, I just thought you might like to see it anyways. 😉
Don’t the DIY lemon canvas art pieces in the background remind you of summer?
Tiny Summer Home Tour Last Looks
Here’s a couple more views of the new My Wee Abode decked-out in understated coastal style.
How Do I Make My House Look Coastal?
There are so many ways to add touches of coastal decor to your home without making your home look like a ‘beach theme’.
Here are a few items to think about using in your home to give it a light and airy feel of summer and the beach:
- Starfish (if you don’t have a tourist trap store at your local pier, these can be purchased online or even at your local craft store)
- Sand Dollars (see above 🙂 )
- Nautical Knots
- Sea Glass
- Conch Shells
- Coral Pieces
- Driftwood
- Neutral Vase Filler
- Sea Grass Trays and Baskets
Do you use coastal decor in your home for the summer… or even throughout the year? What are your favorite items to use? Let me know in the comments… I love hearing from you, and I answer every comment!
Now, be sure to hop on over to Kelly’s home at The Tattered Pew! She always has lovely ideas and lots of inspiration in her gorgeous home!
And be sure to come back each day this week to click on the links below for more summer decor inspiration, tips and tricks!
Bloggers’ Best Summer Home Tours
This week I am joining some of my blogging friends for the Bloggers’ Best Summer Home Tours. Thirty talented and creative women will be opening their homes up for you to tour all week long. You can visit each summer home tour by clicking the links below.
Monday’s Tours
The Tattered Pew / Cottage On Bunker Hill / She Gave It A Go
Cottage In The Mitten / Stonegable / My Wee Abode
Tuesday’s Tours
Thistle Key Lane / Midwest Life & Style / White Lilac Farmhouse
My Thrift Store Addiction / Willow Bloom Home Blog / Dabbling and Decorating
Wednesday’s Tours
Bricks ‘n Blooms /Amy Sadler Designs / Peacock Ridge Farm
White Arrows Home / Pasha Is Home / The Ponds Farmhouse
Thursday’s Tours
Simply2Moms / Country Peony / Southern Home and Hospitality
Shiplap and Shells / Eleanor Rose Home / Cloches and Lavender
Friday’s Tours
Le Cultivateur / Lora Bloomquist Create & Ponder / Noting Grace
My Family Thyme / Vintage and Grace Living / County Road 407
Wow, I’m so impressed that you have settled in so well. Two things I’m really loving is your dining area with the space saving folding table (so clever) and your coffee station. How smart you are to repurpose your portable island cart. It looks fantastic! Big hugs to you and your mom!
It’s funny… almost everyone has made remarks on the dining area and coffee station! Hehe! I wasn’t sure about the cart, but now I think it was the right thing to do! LOL!
Your new place is pretty. Always love lemons for summer.
Repurposing your coffee bar is perfect for your place
Wishing you and your mom tge best. Stay strong
Thank you so much, Cindy! I’m excited to do a bit more with the coffee bar!
Julie! I love your new wee abode! It looks wonderful. The table and chairs are my favorite. So versatile, elegant and perfect for a small abode. Your coffee station is very nice, too. I’m so happy for you! Such a pretty space! Always a pleasure to hop with YOU, my friend! Be blessed today!💛
Thank you, Kim! So glad to be on this tour with you, as well! I was doubtful of placing the cart where I did, but it seems like it’s a popular ‘new’ piece! 😉 Hugs!
Julie,
Your home tour is just lovely, friend. I enjoyed all the details, and the inspiration…pinned!
It’s a joy to be on this blog hop with you.
xoxo,
Brendt
Thank you, Brendt! Right back at ya! 😉
I can’t believe all you have done in such a short time. I am impressed with decorations. The coffee station looks great there & I wish I had your folding table as they are hard to come by here. Now that side table really needs Julie’s contact paper make over to fit in. I hope your mother is doing well & likes her new dwellings. You look like you have plenty of room for her to get around with a walker or get a wheelchair out the door.
Thank you so much, Fernie! And you are so right! That table just may need some vinyl! 😉 Hugs and hearts!
Julie, you have done so much in such a short time. I LOVE your little dining area! Perfect! And the tree looks wonderful above the table. But most of all I’m always, as ever. impressed and love your heart! Your care and compassion for others and your love of Jesus are so evident in all you do! Thank you for the darling coastal decor tips! I’ve got to dig out a few sand dollars and starfish. Happy summer, dear friend! xo xo
Thank you, Yvonne! You are always such a blessing to my heart and day! Praying we get to see each other soon! Off to see your home tour!
Julie, your home is just beautiful! It’s cozy and has the perfect touches. I am so happy for you and your mom.
God bless you and your mom today and everyday,
Suzanne
Numbers 6:24
P.S. Thanks for sharing this author with us. I’m always interested in finding new Christian authors.
Thank you so much Suzanne! And run and get the book (get all her books)… you will be SUPER BLESSED!
Julie, I love your new updates, your coastal style, and your fun coffee station–what an inspiration for transforming small spaces! Pinned! Blessings, Cecilia @My Thrift Store Addiction
Thank you so much, Cecilia! I wasn’t sure about the coffee station, but I’m so glad you like it!
You need to be so proud of yourself! You’ve accomplished quite a lot in such a short amount of time and it was a huge undertaking. It looks cozy and peaceful yet energetic. Love what you’ve done and I can see happiness filling the place. Big hugs friend. Beautiful job!
Thank you, Cindy! You really do know how much this has taken. 🙂 Love you for always being there, and understanding my ups-and-downs. Love you!
Julie, you always amaze me. You have gotten so much done. Your new wee abode is just lovely! Not everyone can live in large spaces. I love how you show people how to decorate your space no matter the size. It’s warm and inviting!
Oh, Tammy! You are such a sweetheart. Thank you for the kind and ‘lovely’ words! Big hugs!
Julie it is so fun to see how you have settled in and made this a lovely home for you and your mother. She is so blessed to have you (and your family) taking care of her. I love all of the areas you have created especially the coffee station. And I have to say, I am impressed you put that media console together on your own. I just did a dresser for my daughter, and it was a nightmare. The hubs had to help me. Any ways, lovely tour my friend and loving your coastal flare. Pinned and so thankful you were able to join me this week!
Oh, you are such a great encouragement, Kelly. Thank you! I was a bit skeptical about using my kitchen cart as my coffee station, but it seems to be a fave with readers so far! LOL! And yes… I get the nightmare of putting together furniture. I’m hoping to get a tutorial post out for help with that. I have all the photos taken! 😉 Thank you for always inviting me to these tours. It truly blesses my heart!
I love love love what you have done! Thank you for sharing. God bless you!
Oh, thank you SO much, Josee!
Julie, you pulled everything together beautifully! That’s wonderful you have your Mom with you now. Love the coastal vibe!
Thanks, Jennifer! We do love our coastal elements, right?! 😉
Julie,
Your coastal summer touches make your home feel so fresh. Love doing these hops together.
Thank you, Rachel… Right back at you!
You’ve made it so cute Julie – what a great spot for you and your mom! And the coastal vibe will make you feel like you’re at the beach all summer. Thanks for sharing it with us, and inspiring my upcoming decorating! 🙂 Take care and Happy Monday!
Thank you so much, Barbara. We are enjoying the apartment so much. My mom thinks it’s a new place every time we drive up to the community. We have to giggle, or we’ll cry. 😉
Julie, I’m thrilled for you! You’ve already made it so homey, it looks fabulous! It really does. Enjoy this bright and roomy space!
Oh, thank you, Rita! I’m having fun getting things ‘together’, for sure!
Your new apartment is just the cutest! This is just the best spot for you and your mom. I can’t believe how much you have done in such a short amount of time Julie. I’m loving all the coastal decor tips. Praying for you and your mom and sending you all the hugs and love.
Thank you so much, Kim. Lots done, and lots to still do! 😉 Can’t wait to see your home!
I love the coastal vibe of your home Julie! Your home is absolutely adorable, thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much, Heidi… I’m off to visit your blog!
Wow, Julie! MWA 2.0 is looking fantastic! I know you’re loving having that entry and all that pantry storage! You’ve done such a great job decorating and your coastal touches are all so pretty for summer, all the way down to your “porthole” mirror (you made me laugh with that). So happy to be touring together this week. Happy summer!
Always a joy touring with you all, as well, Anne! Thank you so much for the encouragement, and I’m glad I got a giggle out of you! Hugs!
I’m so glad you’re getting settled in your new home with your mom. Looks like it will be a comfortable haven for you both. So glad you’ve got some new “extra” spaces to have fun with, too!
Thanks, Lora. It has been fun to get things settled. And there is still LOTS to do! 😉 Love hopping with you!
Hi!
Luv your new home.
And it is truly a home. We live on Long
Island, New York. Twenty minutes from our beautiful beaches. My husband and
I both grew up here. Yes I love to have a bit of BEACH here and there throughout our home. Especially during
the spring and summer.
I hope you were able to keep your Hoosier.
Take care and love reading your posts.
Oh, thank you so much, Su. I didn’t know you were in New York! And so close to the beach! Yes, my Hoosier is with us still. It’s sharing the room with my mom. 😉 I think it has made her feel a bit more comfortable and ‘at home’ with having it in her room. And it really wasn’t going to fit in the kitchen or living room. 😀
Love all of your coastal touches Julie and you seemed to have settled in well! I love your new home it is beautiful! xo
Thank you, Stacy! Always working on it, as you well know!!! 😉
Your home tour is so beautiful. I’m inspired by your post and the many ways you’ve incorporated coastal touches. I’ll definitely by trying a few of these myself.
Thank you so much, Shawna… really enjoyed your tour, as well!
Your new place looks beautiful, Julie. Looks like you are getting all settled in. I love your cozy little dining area and all of the coastal vibes with the shells and wicker accents. Perfect for summertime! So happy to be touring with you this week, friend. Pinned!
Thanks for the pin, Jen… and for the lovely comment. I think the dining area was a fave for everyone! LOL! Maybe because I didn’t have one before!
Such a lovely home decorated with the perfect coastal touches, Julie! I love all the textures you used, especially in your beautiful bowl next to the sandpiper. Everything is looking beautiful in your new abode. Thanks also for the sweet shoutout! 🥰
Hehe… of course! I love my mug! 😉 And thanks for the lovely encouragement!
Hi Julie! I’m so excited to see your new place! It looks amazing! I love the coastal touches you added! The dining table is a perfect size, and I love how it folds down on both sides! You have created a beautiful and comfortable space for you and your mom! Blessings to you both! Donna
Thank you so much, Donna… yes, the table is a wonderful addition and works well in so many ways! I think it was a fave on this post for everyone! LOL!
Your home looks lovely Julie, I love the neutral coastal decor, it’s so peaceful and relaxing! I also love your uncluttered look, but where do you store your extra stuff?? Your coffee station is fantastic, you are going to have such fun decorating that seasonally!
Thanks, Jenna… I have LOTS of storage in the wall pantry. And I have an extra closet in my room that I’m hoping to share sooner than later. Also, I have a storage unit in this community, as well as extra storage in the washer/dryer closet on the balcony! 😉
Your home looks beautiful and I love all the coastal touches. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much, Erika. That is very kind of you!
Julie, I love your new place and its coastal style! It’s so light, bright, and relaxing which is tough to do with a small space and you’ve definitely achieved that!! What a sanctuary you’ve made for you and your mom. So happy to be touring with you again. Happy Summer!
Thank you so much, Kate… I’m still working on it! I’ve got a new sign coming to put over the sofa, and I think I may need to replace the coffee table! (Too tiny… but maybe I just need to add an occasional chair! LOL! Always thinking, right?!)
I am loving watching you decorate your new nest! Your floors are beautiful! And the coastal touches are just perfect!
Yes, I’m loving my floors, too! Wish my cabinets matched? I’m thinking of painting them, and seeing where it gets me when we move out! LOL! (Loss of a small deposit?)
You have made your new place so pretty Julie! The vaulted ceilings are amazing! I’m loving the fold-down dining table – such a smart piece of furniture. Thanks for sharing all of the coastal decorating tips! Pinned 🥰
Thanks, Cindy! That dining area seems to be a fave… I love it too!
All so beautiful Julie! I’m excited to see you’re reading When Strivings Cease, it’s what I’m reading this next month and I’m so excited!
You will LOVE it. I finished it and I’m going around for a second read now. 🙂
Julie – Your home always looks so light, airy and inviting. I love the vaulted ceilings. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thank you so much, Anna… Now if I could just get my wall project done behind the TV!
So much inspiration I love it! Coastal aesthetic is my vibe and this has me so excited for summer! Thanks for sharing at my weekly link party!
Of course, Nicolle! And thank YOU!
Julie,
As usual, your home is so lovely. You have made a wonderful home for you and your Mom. I love all of the beachy accents. Congratulations, you are being featured on TFT. I hope you stop by. https://www.eclecticredbarn.com/2023/05/this-and-that-on-tft.html
Hugs,
Bev
Aw… thanks so much for the kind words, Beverly… and for the feature!