Coastal vs Mediterranean style: A Complete Guide
Coastal and Mediterranean style are two of the most popular interior design styles, and they are often compared because of their surface-level similarities. However, they differ significantly in philosophy, materials, and execution. Coastal is known for breezy seaside-inspired rooms with natural textures, ocean hues, and a relaxed sun-washed atmosphere, while Mediterranean style embraces warm sun-drenched interiors with terra cotta, wrought iron, mosaic tiles, and arched doorways. Understanding the differences between these two styles will help you choose the right direction for your home, or even combine elements from both to create a personalized space.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Coastal | Mediterranean |
|---|---|---|
| Color Palette | White, Navy Blue, Sandy Beige, Seafoam Green | Terracotta, Ocean Blue, Warm Yellow, Olive Green |
| Key Materials | Driftwood, Linen, Jute, Wicker | Terra Cotta, Wrought Iron, Mosaic Tile, Natural Stone |
| Design Era | Timeless seaside living | Historic Mediterranean coastal |
| Best Room Types | Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen | Living Room, Kitchen, Dining Room |
| Budget Range | Budget to Medium - relaxed natural materials | Medium - warm textured materials |
| Maintenance | Medium - salt and moisture considerations | Medium - terra cotta and natural stone |
| Space Size | All sizes - bright and open feel | Medium to large - open courtyards and arches |
Color Palette
White, Navy Blue, Sandy Beige, Seafoam Green
Terracotta, Ocean Blue, Warm Yellow, Olive Green
Key Materials
Driftwood, Linen, Jute, Wicker
Terra Cotta, Wrought Iron, Mosaic Tile, Natural Stone
Design Era
Timeless seaside living
Historic Mediterranean coastal
Best Room Types
Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen
Living Room, Kitchen, Dining Room
Budget Range
Budget to Medium - relaxed natural materials
Medium - warm textured materials
Maintenance
Medium - salt and moisture considerations
Medium - terra cotta and natural stone
Space Size
All sizes - bright and open feel
Medium to large - open courtyards and arches
Key Differences
Coastal uses light blues, whites, and sandy neutrals; Mediterranean uses terracotta, warm yellows, and deep ocean blues
Coastal uses rope-wrapped pendants, driftwood chandeliers, and airy natural light to set its characteristic mood.
Mediterranean style uses carefully chosen fixtures and layered illumination to set its characteristic mood.
Coastal furniture is light, casual, and often slipcovered; Mediterranean furniture is heavier with wrought iron and carved wood details
Coastal furniture features relaxed slipcovered pieces, natural woven textures, and weathered finishes.
Mediterranean style furniture features distinctive shapes and quality craftsmanship that define the style.
Coastal features driftwood, rope, and whitewashed finishes; Mediterranean showcases tile work, stucco walls, and arched doorways
In terms of coastal features driftwood, rope, and whitewashed finishes; mediterranean showcases tile work, stucco walls, and arched doorways, Coastal is defined by breezy seaside-inspired rooms with natural textures, ocean hues, and a relaxed sun-washed atmosphere.
In terms of coastal features driftwood, rope, and whitewashed finishes; mediterranean showcases tile work, stucco walls, and arched doorways, Mediterranean style is defined by warm sun-drenched interiors with terra cotta, wrought iron, mosaic tiles, and arched doorways.
Coastal has a relaxed, barefoot-on-the-beach vibe; Mediterranean feels more formal and old-world romantic
Coastal creates a relaxed and ocean-inspired environment that transports you to the seaside.
Mediterranean style creates a distinctive and carefully designed environment that creates a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.
What They Share
When to Choose Each Style
Choose Coastal If...
- Choose Coastal when you want a light, casual, breezy space that feels like a relaxed beach cottage
- You want a relaxed, beach-inspired atmosphere year-round
- You love natural light, airy spaces, and ocean-inspired colors
- You live near the coast and want your home to reflect that lifestyle
Choose Mediterranean If...
- Choose Mediterranean when you want warm, rich tones with rustic elegance inspired by Italian, Spanish, or Greek villas
- You want warm, sun-drenched interiors with Old World charm
- You love terra cotta, wrought iron, and mosaic tiles
- You want your home to feel like a Mediterranean villa
Room-by-Room Comparison
Living Room
Slipcovered furniture in white, driftwood accents, woven jute rug, and ocean-blue throw pillows.
Warm terracotta walls, wrought iron accents, comfortable upholstered seating, and mosaic tile details.
Bedroom
A whitewashed headboard, blue-and-white striped bedding, woven baskets, and seashell accents.
A wrought iron bed frame, warm-toned textured walls, colorful tile accents, and arched niches.
Kitchen
White cabinets with blue glass knobs, beadboard backsplash, light countertops, and nautical pendant lights.
Arched range hood, hand-painted tile backsplash, warm wood cabinets, and wrought iron pot rack.
Bathroom
A whitewashed vanity, sea glass accents, rope-framed mirror, and soft blue mosaic accent tile.
Hand-painted ceramic tiles, a stone vanity, arched mirror niche, and wrought iron accessories.
Dining Room
A whitewashed table, wicker chairs, a driftwood chandelier, and soft blue table linens.
A heavy wood table, wrought iron chandelier, hand-painted ceramic plates, and warm stucco walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
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