Traditional coastal style has taken a metaphorical beating in recent years, but gone are the notions of kitschy beach décor and weathered furnishings. The new nautical style is laid-back, low-key, and supremely grown-up.
Popular in homes the length and breadth of the country, a modern coastal-inspired scheme is an effortless way to bring a relaxing edge to traditional living rooms.
From embracing a calm cream color palette to the use of natural materials, a nautically nuanced look instantly injects personality into such a functional space.
So, whether you are honoring the geographical location of your home, or simply want to bring a bit of seaside serenity to your landlocked abode, take inspiration from Reese Witherspoon's coastal living room.
Using wood in the home is nothing new – it has been a popular choice for years because of its timeless appeal, not to mention the fact wood is a durable material that gets better with age. But if you think that using an abundance of wood in your home will feel too traditional in a modern living room, think again.
New York-based designer Amalia Graziani of Noor Property Group loves decorating with wood. 'Timber is an honest material, and the raw finish lends natural charm to any calming coastal retreat.'
Similar coastal living room, designed by Karen B Wolf Interior Design
Reese Witherspoon's living room was designed to offer warmth in the winter and freshness and tranquillity in the summer. The aim was to create a room that was calm and considered yet restrained and not overly decorated – less is so often more when it comes to beach house style.
Here, the combination of warm timber with an off-white color palette balances the feeling of solidity and depth, whilst still making the most of any natural light. Plus, the horizontal cladding in the alcove gives the living room a New England-style charm despite the California postcode.
Whether it evokes classic Cape Cod house style, a sophisticated beachside vibe, or a more boho look, coastal décor can make interiors feel fresh, open, and connected to nature and it’s a great look for any room as well as for outdoor spaces like decks and patios.
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I tried the Mexican cleaning ritual of La Limpia and spiritually cleansed my new home with a pleasing effectI'm sleeping better, and my home feels refreshed in multiple ways
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Reese Witherspoon upgrades her dressing room with this unexpected accent piece – and you can get the look beyond your closetReese's orange accent chair is bold yet versatile, adding just the right pop of color to her otherwise neutral dressing room
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I never thought this daring print could feel tasteful, until Reese Witherspoon's sofa immediately changed my mind
When used intentionally, this print can feel utterly timeless, and designers reassure that success is easier than I always thought
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The wicker sofa in Reese Witherspoon's sunroom is the perfect patio piece for summer 2025 – it brings the quiet luxury look outdoorsI found the answer to my patio furniture woes in Reese's mint-green sunroom – and following her example begins at under $100
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Inside Reese Witherspoon's property portfolio – including an English-style Bel Air manor and an elegant Nashville home
The Legally Blonde actress hails from New Orleans, but her real estate collection spans the country, from Bel Air to Tennessee
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I wanted to organize my bookcase in a way that would start a debate among guests – Reese Witherspoon's bold shelves are my blueprintReese's bookshelves master this controversial design ideology – everyone I know has a strong opinion on whether I should follow her example
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Reese Witherspoon and Martha Stewart's gray-green kitchen cabinets are decades apart, but they both perfect this modern color trendMartha Stewart and Reese Witherspoon have both opted for gray-green kitchen cabinets, which are as versatile as they are trend-forward for 2025
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Reese Witherspoon upgraded a small corner into a cozy reading nook – designers say you can replicate her 'ultimate little escape' (from $18)'It’s all about comfort, calm, and just the right amount of cozy': You only need three things to follow Reese's example – and it's not only for book lovers
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This Reese Witherspoon-approved spring table setting makes the case for a more is more floral mix – let it be your blueprint for spring hosting
The actress's spring tablescape features a floral tablecloth, printed vases, and fresh-cut flowers in a range of colors, for bold results
