By the SEASIDE

The enduring appeal of coastal interiors has much to do with its relaxed living ethos. Here's how to make it everything from Hamptons style to modern

- Text Shelley Tustin

Who doesn't love a day at the beach? Coastal-style interiors tap into a rich vein of seashore inspiration, from colours and materials that evoke the sea and sand dunes, to objects of nautical whimsy.

But most of all, coastal style is about a mood, channelling the barefoot bliss of a day at the beach with interiors that make you instantly unwind.

Perhaps the ultimate anti-trend, coastal interiors have an evergreen - and even global - appeal. The serenity of a salt-spray vacay is always desirable, after all, and anyone can appreciate the allure of a home that's as soothing as a holiday - Kiwis included.

Here in New Zealand, where the natural world is such an intrinsic part of our national identity, where the coast is always a day trip away, and where the humble beach bach is the ubiquitous setting of romanticised childhood memories, it's no wonder coastal style holds such enduring charm. The connection to nature is key, says interior designer Margaux Word of Chroma Interiors. “In New Zealand, people love when their interiors feel like an extension of the outdoors.”

Ahoy, mateys

Coastal interiors come in various salty flavours, but when we think “coastal”, we've usually got a particular and instantly identifiable look in mind. Classic coastal style takes all the most iconic elements of a beach escape, combining a calming colour palette and marine-inspired textures, then seasoning with a dash of maritime motifs. The key elements of a coastal look are: