Home Garden

What Kind of Flooring Is in Coastal Decor?

Coastal decor is known for its clean, natural look, which combines colors from the sea and sand to mimic the look of the beach. Because the style is usually found in beach homes, the materials must be durable enough to stand up to the elements tracked in from the shore. In particular, the flooring must be able to take a beating from the sand, dirt and other debris found at the beach. If you are thinking about using coastal decor, look for flooring options that combine durability with a simple, natural style to get the right look for your home.
  1. Hardwood

    • Traditional hardwood floors are an ideal option for coastal decor. Their clean, natural look complements the soft colors typically used in coastal homes, and the floor is easy to clean if your family tracks sand or other debris from the beach into your home. Opt for a light-colored wood such as pine or maple to maintain a bright, airy look for your home. However, painted wood flooring also works well with coastal decor, so you can cover a darker wood floor with a muted green or blue shade to give it a unique look.

    Bamboo

    • Another attractive flooring option for a coastal style home is bamboo. Bamboo is an interesting alternative to traditional hardwood because it offers a similar look but is considered a greener option because bamboo regenerates so quickly. Its light blond color is reminiscent of sand, so it fits in well with the blue, green, yellow and pink color scheme that is often used to represent the beach in a house with coastal decor. Bamboo flooring is also easy to clean and maintain, which is an important feature for a beach home. However, depending on the quality of the flooring, bamboo can sometimes scratch easily, so it may not be the best option if you have small children or pets.

    Terra Cotta Tile

    • Tile floors also work well for coastal decor. They are highly durable and easy to clean, so you don't have to worry about tracking in sand and other debris from outside. Terra cotta is the most commonly used tile in coastal homes because its warm, natural look provides an interesting contrast with the blues and greens used in beach house decor. Opt for sealed terra cotta tiles so they last longer and are easier to clean. Sealing also improves the tile's moisture-resistance, which is also important in a coastal home.

    Natural Carpeting

    • If you prefer a flooring option that is warmer underfoot and works with coastal decor, consider a natural, textured carpet. Sisal and sea grass are ideal options because they provide a casual look that works well in a beach home. Despite their texture, the carpets do not trap dirt, sand or dust because the pile is very short. Sisal and sea grass carpets typically come in natural colors like tan, brown and beige, which match a coastal color palette well. You can find wall-to-wall sisal carpeting as well as area rugs, while sea grass is available as throw and area rugs. These carpets are usually inexpensive as well, so they are an ideal budget-friendly flooring option as well.