Dec 43 min read

Infuse Coastal Vibes Into Your North Shore Kitchen Décor

4️⃣ A modern farmhouse kitchen with white cabinets, a light blue island, and a marble backsplash. The hardware is brass, and there are wood beams in the ceiling. On one side of the sink, there are floating shelves.

Living on the North Shore of Massachusetts offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the charm of coastal living in your home, and your kitchen is no exception. With its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and rich maritime heritage, the North Shore provides ample inspiration for creating a kitchen that embodies the tranquility and elegance of seaside living. Whether you're planning a complete kitchen remodel or looking for simple ways to refresh your space, here are some decor ideas to bring coastal vibes into your culinary haven.

1. Coastal Color Palette

Start with the right color scheme. Coastal kitchens are all about light, airy, and soothing hues. Think soft whites, sandy beiges, ocean blues, and seafoam greens. Use these colors on your walls, cabinetry, or backsplash to create a serene foundation that echoes the shoreline.

2. Natural Materials and Textures

Incorporate natural materials to evoke a seaside feel. Opt for:

Wood Accents: Use rustic or whitewashed wood for shelves, island accents, or barstools.
Rattan or Wicker: Add woven pendant lights or baskets for storage to introduce a casual, beachy texture.
Stone Elements: Marble or quartz countertops with soft veining can mimic the look of waves and provide durability.

3. Nautical-Inspired Lighting

Swap out generic light fixtures for coastal-inspired designs. Lantern-style pendants, driftwood chandeliers, or lights with rope detailing are excellent choices. These subtle nods to maritime aesthetics will enhance the overall theme without feeling overdone.

4. Ocean-Inspired Tile

A backsplash can be a statement piece in your kitchen, and coastal themes offer endless possibilities. Consider:

Glass Tiles: Shimmering blues and greens mimic the reflection of sunlight on water.
Fish Scale Tiles: Their unique shape adds texture and flair reminiscent of ocean waves.
Natural Stone Mosaic: Create an organic look that feels like pebbles on the beach.

5. Coastal Décor Accents

Small touches can make a big impact. Decorate with:

Seashells and Coral: Display them in glass jars or as centerpiece arrangements.
Nautical Artwork: Add framed prints of lighthouses, seascapes, or abstract ocean art.
Ocean-Inspired Textiles: Introduce rugs, curtains, or dish towels with patterns like stripes, waves, or anchors.

6. Open and Airy Layout

Coastal kitchens often emphasize openness and natural light. Maximize your space by:

Using Open Shelving: Showcase your favorite ceramics or glassware in ocean-inspired hues.
Opting for Glass Cabinet Doors: These add a light, reflective quality to your kitchen.
Enhancing Natural Light: Use light window treatments or none at all to let the sunshine pour in.

7. Plants and Greenery

Bring life and vibrancy into your kitchen with plants that thrive indoors. Succulents, ferns, or even small herb gardens add a fresh, natural touch that complements the coastal vibe. Bonus: A windowsill herb garden is as functional as it is beautiful!

8. Subtle Nautical Hardware

Even your hardware can channel the coastal aesthetic. Opt for cabinet knobs and pulls with a brushed nickel or weathered brass finish. Shapes inspired by seashells, starfish, or anchors add a playful yet sophisticated touch.

Create Your Coastal Oasis with Benchmark Kitchen & Bath

Transforming your North Shore kitchen into a coastal oasis is easier than you think with the right blend of design elements. Whether you're envisioning a full kitchen renovation or just looking to add a few seaside-inspired touches, Benchmark Kitchen & Bath is here to help.

Our experienced design team can guide you in creating a functional, stylish kitchen that perfectly captures the spirit of coastal living. Visit our showroom to explore materials, fixtures, and more to make your dream kitchen a reality.