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Coastal Farmhouse Charm: Styling Your Living Ro...
Decorating

Coastal Farmhouse Charm: Styling Your Living Room for the Late Summer-Early Fall Transition

The days are getting shorter, the evenings a little cooler. As late summer gently fades into early fall, it's the perfect time to refresh your living room. Imagine blending the breezy elegance of "Coastal Grandmother" style with the comforting warmth of classic Farmhouse decor. It’s a match made in design heaven, and achievable even if you live miles from the ocean. We’ll guide you through creating a space that feels both serene and inviting, emphasizing upcycled materials and sustainable choices for a home that's as eco-conscious as it is beautiful. Get ready to embrace the #BHHCottageTide!

Wide-angle, bright and airy photograph of a farmhouse living room decorated in a 'Coastal Grandmother' style. The room features a cream-colored linen sofa adorned with muted blue and seafoam green throw pillows. A reclaimed wood coffee table sits in the center, displaying a driftwood and sea glass candle holder. Natural light streams in through sheer linen curtains. The scene is styled for the late summer/early fall transition, with subtle touches of cream-colored pumpkins.

The Coastal Farmhouse Palette

The foundation of this style is its soothing color palette. Think of muted blues, like the subtle shades of sea glass found after a storm. Combine these with gentle seafoam greens, the color of sun-kissed algae on the rocks. Ground the palette with creams reminiscent of aged linen, sandy beiges echoing the beach, and weathered whites that speak of years spent in the sun. The key is to choose matte finishes and embrace natural textures, letting the materials themselves contribute to the overall ambiance. These colors together create a sense of serenity, perfect for transitioning from the bright days of summer to the cozy nights of fall.

Key Materials

Selecting the right materials is crucial for capturing the essence of Coastal Farmhouse. Here are some essential elements to incorporate:

  • Driftwood: Source driftwood locally if you live near the coast. Otherwise, look for ethically sourced options. Varying sizes and shapes add visual interest and a touch of rustic charm.
  • Sea Glass: Authentic sea glass, in shades of blue, green, and white, is a treasure. Use it sparingly for maximum impact.
  • Oyster Shells: Cleaned and dried oyster shells can be used in a variety of decorative ways, from filling vases to creating unique accents.
  • Linen: Heavyweight linen in cream and beige tones is ideal for throws and cushion covers. Its natural texture adds to the overall aesthetic.
  • Cotton Rope: Thick cotton rope can be used for macramé accents, decorative knots, or even as a trim on curtains or pillows.
  • Aged Wood: Reclaimed wood is perfect for coffee tables, shelving, or accent walls. Make sure the wood tones complement your color palette, aiming for sun-bleached and weathered finishes.

Close-up photograph of a vignette in a Coastal Farmhouse living room. The scene includes a collection of sea glass in a glass jar, a stack of linen-bound books, and a small driftwood sculpture on a weathered white shelf. Soft, diffused lighting.

Styling the Living Room

Now, let's put it all together and create a Coastal Farmhouse living room that welcomes both late summer breezes and early fall coziness.

  • Furniture: Start with a comfortable slipcovered sofa in cream linen or cotton. This provides a neutral base for layering. Add linen throw pillows in muted blues and seafoam greens to bring in the coastal hues. A coffee table made from reclaimed wood adds a rustic touch and serves as a focal point. Consider incorporating a vintage trunk as a side table for added storage and character.

  • Textiles: Drape a chunky knit throw in a cream or beige tone over the sofa for added warmth and texture. Use linen curtains in a sheer white or light beige to allow natural light to filter through, creating a bright and airy feel. Add a sisal rug underfoot for texture and warmth.

  • Accessories: Display a collection of sea glass in glass jars or bowls on a shelf or coffee table. Arrange driftwood pieces on a mantel or shelf to bring the outdoors in. Incorporate woven baskets for storage, adding both functionality and visual appeal. Touches of greenery, such as potted ferns or succulents, will bring life to the space. To transition into fall, place cream or white pumpkins on shelves or the coffee table.

  • Lighting: Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere by using a combination of natural light, table lamps with linen shades, and string lights with warm-toned bulbs. Avoid harsh overhead lighting and opt for softer, more ambient light sources.

Close-up photograph of a cream-colored pumpkin sitting on a reclaimed wood mantel, surrounded by dried hydrangeas and a linen-scented candle. The light is warm and inviting.

DIY Project: Driftwood and Sea Glass Candle Holder

Bring the beauty of the beach into your home with this easy DIY project. It’s a great way to use up leftover driftwood and sea glass.

Materials:

  • Small bag of Quick-Setting Concrete Mix.
  • Disposable Mixing Container and Stirring Stick.
  • Clean, Empty Tuna Can (or similar small, round can).
  • Assorted Driftwood Pieces (small to medium size).
  • Sea Glass Pieces.
  • Tea Light Candles.
  • Hot Glue Gun and Glue Sticks.
  • Sandpaper (optional).
  • Clear Sealer Spray (optional).

Instructions:

  1. Mix concrete according to package directions. Pour into tuna can, filling almost to the top.

Close-up, instructional photograph, overhead shot, showing concrete mix being poured into an empty tuna can.

  1. Immediately arrange driftwood pieces around the perimeter of the wet concrete, pressing them gently to secure.

Close-up, instructional photograph, overhead shot, showing driftwood pieces being arranged around the perimeter of the tuna can filled with wet concrete.

  1. Place sea glass pieces between the driftwood, embedding them slightly in the concrete.

Close-up, instructional photograph, overhead shot, showing sea glass pieces being placed between the driftwood and embedded slightly in the wet concrete.

  1. Allow concrete to cure completely (at least 24 hours).
  2. Remove the concrete base from the tuna can. Sand the edges if needed for a smoother finish.

Close-up, instructional photograph, overhead shot, showing the concrete base being removed from the tuna can.

  1. (Optional) Seal the concrete base with a clear sealer spray.
  2. Place a tea light candle in the center.

Close-up, instructional photograph, overhead shot, showing a finished driftwood and sea glass candle holder with a tea light candle in the center.

Transitioning to Autumn

As summer truly gives way to fall, you can add warmer, autumnal elements without sacrificing the coastal feel. Embrace pumpkins in cream or white instead of the traditional orange to maintain the soft palette. Incorporate heavier linen textiles for added warmth, such as thicker throws or heavier curtains. Introduce subtle touches of cinnamon or clove scent through candles or potpourri. Use dried hydrangeas in muted tones for a touch of fall foliage.

Conclusion

Blending Coastal Grandmother and Farmhouse styles is easier than you think. By focusing on a calming color palette, natural materials, and thoughtful accents, you can create a living room that is both beautiful and inviting. Experiment with different elements to find what works best for your space and your personal style. The rewarding feeling of creating a unique and sustainable home is well worth the effort. Happy decorating!

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