Adding Modern Coastal Touches Without the Kitsch

If you’re starting from scratch and craving that light, coastal feel at home, it can be tempting to reach for all the obvious pieces. But I’ve always been drawn to a softer, more layered version of coastal style—one that feels lived-in rather than themed. My approach leans into warm neutrals, natural textures, and that relaxed elegance you see in Indie Hicks West Indies style, balanced with the crisp simplicity of Nantucket interiors.

If I’m honest, that pull probably started long before I ever thought about “design.” Growing up in the Caribbean, light wasn’t something you had to create—it was just there. Rooms felt open, breezes moved through easily, and nothing was overly precious. Later, I found myself equally drawn to that New England coastal aesthetic—tailored but still relaxed, classic but never fussy.

Somewhere along the way, those two influences blended into what I now think of as my version of coastal: airy but grounded, casual but intentional. And whether you’re building a space from the ground up or simply refreshing what you have, the goal is the same—to create a home that feels like the coast, without ever looking like a souvenir shop.

Here’s how to bring in that coastal energy without tipping into kitschy territory.


Start With a Calm, Neutral Base

Coastal style isn’t about piling on ocean-themed décor—it’s about evoking how the coast feels. Think soft, sun-washed tones:

  • Warm whites instead of stark white

  • Sandy beiges and light taupes

  • Muted blues and soft greens (not bright nautical navy everywhere)

Your walls, larger furniture, and rugs should feel like a quiet backdrop. This creates that airy, open feeling that coastal homes are known for.

Focus on Natural Textures

If you do nothing else, do this. Texture is what separates elevated coastal from cliché coastal. Incorporate materials like:

  • Linen (curtains, throw pillows)

  • Cotton (slipcovers, bedding)

  • Rattan or wicker (chairs, baskets)

  • Light or weathered wood

  • Jute or sisal rugs

These elements add depth without shouting “beach theme.”


Edit Your “Beachy” Decor

You don’t need to ban seashells—but you do need to curate them. Instead of bowls of shells everywhere, starfish on every surface and/or anchors (please, no anchors), try—

  • One simple glass jar with a few meaningful shells

  • A single coral sculpture

  • Driftwood as a natural accent

Think collected, not decorated.

Let Light Do the Work

Coastal spaces feel open and breathable because they maximize natural light.

  • Use sheer or lightweight curtains

  • Avoid heavy window treatments

  • Keep furniture from blocking windows

  • Add mirrors to reflect light around the room

If your space lacks natural light, use warm, soft lighting to mimic that glow.

Choose Art That Suggests, Not Shouts

Skip the obvious “BEACH” signs and literal ocean prints. Instead, look for:

  • Abstract art in coastal colors

  • Landscape photography with subtle shoreline hints

  • Textured wall hangings or woven pieces

The goal is to suggest the coast, not label it.

Keep Furniture Comfortable and Livable

Coastal style leans relaxed, not rigid. Think slipcovered sofas, slightly oversized seating and pieces that invite you to put your feet up. Nothing should feel too precious. If you’re worried about messing it up, it’s probably not coastal.


Bring in Greenery (But Keep It Simple)

Plants add life and freshness, which is essential to this look. Stick with:

  • Olive trees

  • Snake plants

  • Simple leafy greens in neutral pots

Avoid overly tropical arrangements unless that’s specifically the vibe you want.


Use Color Sparingly for Impact

A coastal palette doesn’t mean everything has to be blue. Instead:

  • Keep most of the room neutral

  • Add a few blue or sea-glass accents

  • Layer in soft contrast through textiles

This keeps the space feeling sophisticated instead of themed.


Leave Space to Breathe

One of the biggest mistakes? Over-decorating. Coastal homes feel peaceful because they aren’t crowded. Give your furniture and décor room to exist without filling every corner. Empty space isn’t unfinished—it’s intentional.


Final Thought

A true coastal vibe isn’t about recreating the beach—it’s about capturing its calm. When you focus on light, texture, and simplicity, you create a space that feels grounded, relaxed, and timeless. And the best part? You won’t feel like you need to hide a ceramic lighthouse every time someone comes over.

My Favorite tips for making house cleaning more enjoyable

Spring is finally here—and if you’re anything like me, that means one thing: it’s time to throw open the windows, let the fresh air in, and give your home the reset it’s been craving all winter.

There’s something about this season of renewal that naturally nudges us toward a deep clean. Maybe it’s the longer days, the softer sunlight, or just the anticipation of summer gatherings and slower evenings. Whatever it is, spring cleaning feels less like a chore and more like a ritual—a way to prepare our homes (and ourselves) for what’s ahead.

Now, I’ll admit something that might sound a little unusual: I genuinely love cleaning. Not in a “my house is always spotless” kind of way—because let’s be honest, life happens—but in the sense that I find real joy in the process. Ever since I was little, there’s been something deeply satisfying about tidying up, organizing a space, and stepping back to admire the final result. That moment when everything feels fresh, calm, and in its place? Pure happiness.

As an adult, though, I’ve realized that keeping that joy alive takes a little intention. Routines can get stale. Products can feel uninspiring. And sometimes, cleaning starts to feel more like a task than a pleasure. That’s when I know it’s time for a refresh—not just for my home, but for the way I approach cleaning altogether.

So today, I want to share a few simple ways to make your spring cleaning feel lighter, more enjoyable, and maybe even something you look forward to (yes, really).


Establish a simple monthly rhythm

One thing I’ve learned along the way is that waiting for those big annual or quarterly cleanings—like spring or fall—can feel incredibly overwhelming. When everything piles up, it turns into an all-day (or all-weekend) event, and that takes a lot of the joy out of it.

What works better for me is a simple monthly rhythm. Each month, I choose one or two rooms to clean really well. I’m talking about the deeper tasks—the ones we usually save for “someday.” By the time spring cleaning rolls around, there’s no massive buildup waiting for me. Instead of spending hours catching up, I’m just refreshing what’s already been cared for. It makes the whole process feel lighter, more manageable, and honestly, much more enjoyable.

Another thing that helps? I don’t like clutter—and that makes cleaning so much easier. When there’s less stuff to move around, less to organize, and less to clean, everything becomes quicker and more efficient. It’s not about having a perfect or minimal home; it’s just about being mindful of what you keep so your space can breathe a little.

Refresh your tools and products

Sometimes all it takes is a new scent or a better tool to change your whole mindset. Come February, I start swapping heavy winter fragrances for something light and fresh—think citrus, lemon, lavender, or eucalyptus. Especially anything that evokes the sea or summer. Even upgrading a sponge, mop, or vacuum can make the work feel easier and more efficient.

Note: Right now, my go-to cleaning products are from Koala Eco and Caldrea. They are a little pricier than what you typically find at the stores, but they are cleaner and safer, and last a long time because they are very concentrated. Plus, I love the scents. The Koala Eco’s Australian Lemon Myrtle & Mandarin scent is heavenly.

Dress for the mood you want

This might sound silly, but it works. Instead of throwing on whatever’s closest, choose something that makes you feel good—comfy leggings, a favorite tee, maybe even a cute apron. My fav go to is linen capris and a button-down shirt. Don’t ask me why, I love that clothing combo. :) When I feel put together, the task feels less like drudgery and more like a purposeful activity.

Create a cleaning playlist or podcast routine

Music has the power to transform anything. Build a playlist that energizes you or save your favorite podcast for cleaning time. My cleaning motivation playlist is a compilation of Nancy Meyers film soundtracks. Suddenly, what used to feel like a chore becomes your “me time.” And I am inspired to see my home sparkle.

Romanticize the process

Light a candle— right now my go to candles are Bath & Body Coastal Cottage and Coastal Hydrangeas. Maybe open the windows and let the breeze move through your space. Turn cleaning into a sensory experience instead of just a task. It shifts everything.

Pause and admire your work

Nothing gives me more joy that, once done, stepping back and taking it all in. Don’t rush past the finished result. Take a moment to stand back and really look at what you’ve done. That feeling of “I did this” is so satisfying—and it’s what keeps the joy alive for me.

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be perfect, and it definitely doesn’t have to happen all at once. It’s simply about creating a space that feels good to live in—one that supports the life you’re building, day by day.

For me, it’s never just about a clean house. It’s about that quiet satisfaction, that sense of renewal, and the small but meaningful joy of caring for the place I call home. And if you can find even a little bit of that joy in your own routine this season, I’d say that’s a pretty beautiful way to welcome summer.