Distant shores bedroom décor
If the bleak British weather has you daydreaming about summer holidays, then a touch of distant shores décor could bring a ray of sunshine to your life.
While traditional beach-themed bedrooms rely on prominent nautical motifs, this sophisticated approach draws inspiration from luxury island resorts and getaways.
It combines natural textures, soothing colours, and thoughtfully curated pieces to create tranquil spaces that capture the essence of distant paradises while maintaining everyday practicality – perfect for your home!
Join us below for tips on getting the look.
Pictured: Willis Gambier Etienne Rattan Bed Frame. Available from Bedstar Online.
Invest in an island-inspired bed frame
Invest in a natural rattan bed frame like the Birlea Astrid or a white wood frame like the Willis Gambier Etienne to create the perfect foundation.
Select a design with clean lines and a statement headboard, balancing coastal character with timeless appeal that works for everyday living.
Choose a calming colour palette
Start with crisp whites and soft neutrals, then layer in ocean-inspired hues like serene blues, sandy beiges, and gentle sage greens.
Paint off-white or pale blue walls to create an airy backdrop and add textured wallpaper in natural tones to add subtle depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Pictured: Birlea Astrid Rattan Bed Frame. Available from Bedstar Online.
Embrace natural materials
Incorporate organic textures through furniture and decor pieces made from teak, rattan, and jute materials.
A woven headboard or bedside table with natural wood finishes can anchor the space. Adding rope or bamboo accessories brings in those coveted resort vibes without feeling themed or artificial.
Layer luxurious textiles
Select premium bedding in breathable natural fibres like pure cotton and linen, focusing on whites and soft blues that evoke pristine island shores.
Create depth through thoughtful layering of textures, combining crisp duvets with cashmere throws and linen cushions to achieve that coveted resort-style luxury.
Add atmospheric lighting
Install dimmable pendant lights with natural woven shades to cast intricate shadows that dance across walls like filtered sunlight through palm fronds.
Layer your lighting scheme with organic-shaped ceramic table lamps and rattan sconces to create the perfect balance of form and function.
Incorporate natural elements
Image credit: Tim Young
Bring the outside in with strategically placed plants that thrive in coastal environments, like palm varieties or tropical foliage.
Display collected shells or coral in glass vessels and consider adding a large mirror to reflect light and create the illusion of endless horizons.
Select thoughtful artwork
Choose oversized photography or paintings that capture serene seascapes, abstract waves, or tropical botanicals.
Stick to pieces that evoke calm and tranquillity rather than prominent beach scenes. Group smaller pieces in coordinating frames for an elegant gallery wall.
Focus on subtle patterns
Layer organic patterns inspired by gentle waves and coastal elements through carefully chosen textiles, keeping the overall effect refined and sophisticated.
Strategically mix the scale and intensity of patterns, incorporating larger prints on cushions and smaller, more delicate designs on decorative accessories.
Add finishing touches
Enhance the serene atmosphere with thoughtfully curated accessories, such as handmade ceramic vessels, woven storage baskets, and natural fibre rugs in neutral tones.
Keep surfaces intentionally minimal yet personal, balancing clean resort-style aesthetics with carefully chosen pieces that tell your unique coastal story.
Include statement shells
Oversized statement shells in dramatic shapes create sophisticated focal points that elevate coastal decor beyond typical beachy themes.
Position these natural sculptures on plinths or modern glass stands to transform them into gallery-worthy installations that command attention.
Create scent stories
Layer coastal-inspired fragrances throughout your bedroom using diffusers and candles with notes of salt air, driftwood and fresh cotton.
Switch scent combinations seasonally, using lighter marine notes in summer and warmer driftwood elements during cooler months for year-round coastal ambience.