What is Nautical Interior Design?

Many people love to be beside the seaside. Others only feel at home at sea. For the latter, there’s nautical interior design, the home decor style that captures the essence of the ocean. The question is, how? What are the features and characteristics of the nautical aesthetic? And how does it differ from coastal interior design?

We’re here to navigate all these subjects and more, including nautical home decor ideas and inspiration. So, want to discover just how nice nautical can be? Read on.

Nautical interior design is the style of all things maritime. If it’s related to the sea, ships, navigation, or sailors, it’s right at home among nautical interior decor. We’ll look at the specifics below, right after we make an important distinction; between nautical and coastal interior design.

With their shared maritime inspiration, coastal and nautical decor are often regarded as interchangeable. However, some argue they’re very much individual styles, with different themes, colour palettes, and decorative elements; that, while coastal decor brings home the beach, nautical decor is inspired by ships and sailing, with a more literal and thematic approach.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at some of the specific features of the nautical interior design style.

From its colour palette and motifs to materials and textures, the following is a birdseye view of the features of nautical decor:

Colour Palette

The colour palette is a defining feature of nautical interior design, typically dominated by shades of navy blue, seafoam green, and aquamarine, alongside crisp whites and occasionally vibrant reds. These colours are inspired by various maritime elements: navy blue and whites evoke sailors’ uniforms and the sails of ships, seafoam green and aquamarine reflect the ocean’s diverse hues, and red recalls the vibrant signal flags used in maritime navigation.

Maritime Motifs

Maritime motifs are central to nautical interior decor, including symbols like anchors, ship wheels, and lighthouses. These motifs can be incorporated into wall art, textiles, or accessories, adding a sense of whimsy and adventure. The use of these elements helps reinforce the nautical theme and brings the spirit of the sea into the home.

Materials & Textures

Nautical decor often features materials with a rugged, lived-in look. Rope, burlap, shiplap walls, and weathered wood are common choices, evoking the rustic charm of a seaside cottage or a ship’s interior. Metals such as brass and nickel are also popular, adding an industrial touch reminiscent of maritime equipment. In more contemporary interpretations, sleek metals and polished finishes may be introduced, giving this traditional style a modern twist.

Nautical interior design is one of the most scalable of styles. Whether it’s subtle or overboard, the possibilities are endless. Here are just a few nautical home decor ideas:

Art & Accessories

Maritime themed wall art, sculptures, and accessories are among the simplest of touches to imbue a space with that seaworthy feel. Think framed maps, flag bunting, or old nautical charts as a nod to the explorers of the sea. Decorative items like lanterns and compasses can be strategically placed around the home, while motifs such as anchors and ship wheels add visual interest and reinforce the theme. Alternatively, accessories made of materials related to sailing or boats, like rope or teak, can be used either on their own or as part of a wider plan.

Ship Shapes & Patterns

Patterns and shapes are powerful tools in incorporating any design. And there are many to choose from in nautical interior decor. If there’s one pattern that’s inextricably nautical by nature, it is stripes, especially bold blue and white ones. Rugs, curtains, upholstery, however it’s displayed, it clearly says ship ahoy. Yet this is just the tip of the iceberg. Wavy edges on furniture and decor can mimic the gentle motion of the sea, creating a soothing and fluid visual effect. For instance, a wavy-edged mirror or a ripple-patterned throw blanket can subtly suggest the ocean’s ebb and flow. Additionally, furniture pieces designed to resemble maritime elements, such as boat-shaped tables or beds, offer a more direct homage to the nautical theme. These distinctive shapes can serve as focal points, emphasising the room’s connection to the sea and adding a whimsical touch.

Architectural Anchors

Taking inspiration from maritime structures is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a great addition to any nautical interior design plan. For instance, porthole windows are a sure fire allusion to seafaring, while wooden beams and stair ladders are guaranteed to evoke thoughts of sailing.

Wall to Wall

Walls offer a large canvas for showcasing nautical themes. Options include blue paint, anchor-adorned wallpaper, or floor-to-ceiling wooden cladding that mimics the interior of a ship. These elements can make a significant impact and set the tone for the entire room.

While traditional maritime interiors are rooted in rustic charm, modern interpretations can be sleek and sophisticated. Nautical modern decor often incorporates cleaner lines, with bolder elements as accents. Similarly, when it comes to accessories and motifs, the modern trend focuses more on subtle elements rather than overt symbols. This modern approach may blend sea-focused ideas with industrial or Scandinavian influences, resulting in a fresh and updated look.

An emerging trend in nautical interior design is the emphasis on sustainability. Eco-friendly materials, such as reclaimed wood or recycled glass, are increasingly popular. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also aligns with a growing consciousness about environmental impact. Incorporating plants, especially those that thrive in coastal climates, can further enhance the connection to nature.

And so, whether it’s the occasional anchor sculpture or an entire wall of porthole windows, the sea is the limit in nautical home decor.