Coastal vs Scandinavian style: A Complete Guide
Coastal and Scandinavian 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 Scandinavian style embraces light-filled spaces with functional furniture, natural materials, and a cozy yet minimal aesthetic from the Nordic tradition. 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 | Scandinavian |
|---|---|---|
| Color Palette | White, Navy Blue, Sandy Beige, Seafoam Green | White, Light Gray, Beige, Soft Blues |
| Key Materials | Driftwood, Linen, Jute, Wicker | Light Wood, Wool, Linen, Leather |
| Design Era | Timeless seaside living | 1950s Nordic movement |
| Best Room Types | Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen | Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen |
| Budget Range | Budget to Medium - relaxed natural materials | Medium - functional quality pieces |
| Maintenance | Medium - salt and moisture considerations | Low - simple functional pieces |
| Space Size | All sizes - bright and open feel | All sizes - light and airy maximizes space |
Color Palette
White, Navy Blue, Sandy Beige, Seafoam Green
White, Light Gray, Beige, Soft Blues
Key Materials
Driftwood, Linen, Jute, Wicker
Light Wood, Wool, Linen, Leather
Design Era
Timeless seaside living
1950s Nordic movement
Best Room Types
Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen
Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen
Budget Range
Budget to Medium - relaxed natural materials
Medium - functional quality pieces
Maintenance
Medium - salt and moisture considerations
Low - simple functional pieces
Space Size
All sizes - bright and open feel
All sizes - light and airy maximizes space
Key Differences
Coastal uses ocean-inspired blues and sandy neutrals; Scandinavian uses crisp whites with warm wood tones
In terms of coastal uses ocean-inspired blues and sandy neutrals; scandinavian uses crisp whites with warm wood tones, Coastal is defined by breezy seaside-inspired rooms with natural textures, ocean hues, and a relaxed sun-washed atmosphere.
In terms of coastal uses ocean-inspired blues and sandy neutrals; scandinavian uses crisp whites with warm wood tones, Scandinavian style is defined by light-filled spaces with functional furniture, natural materials, and a cozy yet minimal aesthetic from the Nordic tradition.
Coastal incorporates nautical materials like rope, driftwood, and seagrass; Scandinavian uses birch, pine, and sheepskin
Coastal relies on Driftwood, Linen, Jute, Wicker to create its signature look and feel.
Scandinavian style relies on Light Wood, Wool, Linen, Leather to create its signature look and feel.
Coastal is inspired by warm-weather seaside living; Scandinavian is designed for long, dark Nordic winters
In terms of coastal is inspired by warm-weather seaside living; scandinavian is designed for long, dark nordic winters, Coastal is defined by breezy seaside-inspired rooms with natural textures, ocean hues, and a relaxed sun-washed atmosphere.
In terms of coastal is inspired by warm-weather seaside living; scandinavian is designed for long, dark nordic winters, Scandinavian style is defined by light-filled spaces with functional furniture, natural materials, and a cozy yet minimal aesthetic from the Nordic tradition.
Coastal accessorizes with shells and beach references; Scandinavian accessorizes with candles, wool throws, and simple ceramics
Coastal emerged from Timeless seaside living, shaping its aesthetic principles and material choices.
Scandinavian style emerged from 1950s Nordic movement, shaping its aesthetic principles and material choices.
What They Share
When to Choose Each Style
Choose Coastal If...
- Choose Coastal when you want a breezy, beach-inspired space with ocean blues and a vacation-like atmosphere
- 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 Scandinavian If...
- Choose Scandinavian when you want a cozy, bright space built for comfort with warm woods and hygge warmth
- You want a bright, airy space that feels warm and inviting
- You value functional design with a cozy hygge atmosphere
- You have a smaller space that benefits from light tones
Room-by-Room Comparison
Living Room
Slipcovered furniture in white, driftwood accents, woven jute rug, and ocean-blue throw pillows.
A light wood frame sofa with linen cushions, sheepskin throws, and a bright airy space with minimal clutter.
Bedroom
A whitewashed headboard, blue-and-white striped bedding, woven baskets, and seashell accents.
A light birch bed frame, white linen duvet, woolen throw, and a simple pendant light above.
Kitchen
White cabinets with blue glass knobs, beadboard backsplash, light countertops, and nautical pendant lights.
White cabinetry with light wood accents, open shelving, and simple functional layout with pops of muted color.
Bathroom
A whitewashed vanity, sea glass accents, rope-framed mirror, and soft blue mosaic accent tile.
White subway tile, light wood vanity, a rain showerhead, and simple functional accessories.
Dining Room
A whitewashed table, wicker chairs, a driftwood chandelier, and soft blue table linens.
A light oak table, white wishbone-style chairs, a simple pendant, and a single greenery centerpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
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