As we head into warmer seasons, it's only natural for our thoughts to drift to the great outdoors and lazy days made for lounging. And if you're like us, you might be itching to get your home primed for the slower days ahead. Boho and coastal decor, with their emphasis on natural textures, soothing hues, and laid-back undertones, are the definition of styles that beckon you to relax and linger. Read on to discover how a mash-up of these two simpatico aesthetics translates to the ultimate approachable and inviting living rooms — beach house not required.
1. Make the most of your seating plan.
Video of the Day
Maximize seating and invite people to relax and stay awhile — after all, that's what boho coastal living room ideas are all about. Minted Interiors got the memo and anchored this space with an oversize sectional and then layered on textural moments with hanging pendants, a rattan credenza, and fringe accents.
Video of the Day
Get the look: Pottery Barn Flora Rattan Pendant, $299
2. Look to ethnic details.
A streamlined yet cozy built-in sofa is a genius space-saving boho coastal living room idea that makes the most of a narrow sitting room, like this one by Alexander Design Build. She adds interest with eclectic details like a graphic striped rug and brass pendant light while blue accessories call to mind the beach.
Get the look: L'Aviva Home Egyptian Lanterns, $350 - $1,375
3. Wall to wall windows.
If you're blessed with a killer water-side view like this home designed by Studio McGee, then by all means show it off with wall-to-wall (to wall) windows for a boho coastal living room idea you'll never tire of. A curated mix of minimalist furniture lets the view remain the main attraction.
Get the look: McGee & Co. Janet Coffee Table, $2,350
4. Bring in nature.
Nature is a boho coastal living room idea that never goes out of style — whether it's the ocean or just a slice of the great outdoors in the form of a backyard. Draw inspiration from Amber Lewis, who has just plain mastered boho interiors, and layer global-inspired textiles like pillows, patterned rugs, and lots of texture. Wood and leather details add warmth.
Get the look: CB2 Leather Pouf, $199
5. Hang swings.
Bring outdoor porch vibes inside with a pair of hanging rattan chairs for the ultimate playful boho coastal living room idea. Julie Howard creates depth and interest with a Moroccan tile fireplace surround and adds warmth with a reclaimed wood mantel, light wood floors, a woven rug, and greenery.
Get the look: Serena & Lily Hanging Rattan Chair, $498
6. Clad your ceiling with wood.
A wood ceiling with visible cross beams is a hardworking visual element that adds warmth and texture from above, and creates the ideal backdrop for white walls and muted furniture — coastal boho living room staples. Cortney Bishop adds character with a barely-there there diamond-patterned rug and pillows on pillows for a look that's equal parts refined and welcoming.
Get the look: The Citizenry De Oro Striped Pillow, $125
7. Decorate your walls.
Wood often makes an appearance in boho coastal living room ideas in the form of flooring, furniture, and accessories for the warmth and depth it imparts. We love the way the folks at Le Clair Decor applied smooth wooden half-moons to the walls as art for a simple yet mesmerizing detail. A deep sofa with plenty of pillows is the ideal comfy perch.
Get the look: Anthropologie Textured Kadin Throw Blanket, $88
8. All the earth tones.
We are always taking style cues from the stylish folks Down Under. So it isn't a surprise that this home by Caitlin of Beach Road Interiors caught our attention for its spot-on assortment of quintessential boho coastal living room must-haves like shiplap walls, woven textures, greenery, and natural light. The emphasis on earth tones gives the space a moody vibe.
Get the look: Hans Wegner Easy Chair, $3,965