The New Coastal

Summer is the time for relaxing at home, doors flung open to let the outside in, lounging with a cool drink in hand. Take your summer relaxation to the next level this season and inject some coastal style into your space. We spoke with Amanda Pike, the director of Sydney design firm, Pike Withers, and the creator of beautiful coastal spaces at Qualia, Lizard Island, Bedarra Island Resort and Capella Lodge for her lowdown on the elements you’ll need for your own coastal oasis – even if you’re nowhere near the sea.

What are the small edits I can make to my space?
We associate summer with relaxation and fun and your coastal style home should reflect that. Keep the overall background palette light and bright (which might mean repainting walls white) then introduce natural finishes and fabrics. You can then either accent with a splash of bright colour (but only a splash!) or a range of muted tones and textures on cushions. Sofas should be comfortable and generous. Purchasing some rattan furniture, wicker baskets, sisal rugs or even some wicker light fittings is generally an inexpensive way to introduce natural elements. Also think about large glass bottles and vases for that aquatic feel. Try and declutter spaces to keep them fresh and airy, it might be more about what you take out than what you put in!

Feature image – Palm Beach House by Pike Withers