Coastal Kitchen: 5 Color Combos for Your Kitchen Decor

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Hey friends! Ready to transform your space with effortless coastal kitchen decor? If you’ve been looking for simple, fresh, and uncluttered kitchen counter ideas, you’re in the right place!

This is the second part of our three-part series on transforming your kitchen counters. If you missed the first post, catch up here. Today, we’re diving into color palettes, focusing on decorative accents that can freshen up your space without the need for a full remodel involving new flooring, cabinets, or countertops.

If you’re just starting your color journey or need help choosing the perfect palette for your entire home, check out my Guide to Home Color Schemes for Coastal Interiors for more tips on creating a cohesive and beautiful space.”

In this article, you’ll get:

• Specific color combinations that complement coastal kitchen themes.
• Practical advice on integrating these color palettes into your existing kitchen decor.
• Inspiration for creating a cohesive look that includes countertops, backsplashes, and accessories.

Let’s dive into some fun and easy ways to bring that coastal charm to your kitchen counters with these specific, actionable ideas. While our focus is on decorative accents, I’ll also offer advice on cabinetry, countertop, flooring, and wall color pairings to help you better visualize what can work in your space.

Make sure you stay tuned for the next post, where we’ll explore DIY projects to enhance your coastal kitchen style!

5 Color Combos for a Coastal Kitchen

1. Classic Coastal Elegance

Soft blues, muted greens, and creamy whites are the quintessential colors for achieving a classic coastal look. These hues evoke the serenity of the seaside, creating a calming and timeless space.

In my own kitchen, these colors come together beautifully through creamy white cabinetry, dark granite perimeter countertops counteracting a stunning white granite island.

Dark wood flooring adds warmth, while the mixed material (glass and stone) tile backsplash in beiges, grays, muted sage, and blue-green brings subtle depth. This multi-colored yet muted backsplash provides a wide berth when it comes to decor pieces; offering endless possibilities anytime I wish to refresh the space.

Cabinetry, Countertop, Flooring & Wall Color Pairings

Pairing cream, soft blue, or muted sage green cabinetry with white or light stone countertops is a gorgeous take on this classic look.

Dark wood floors provide a beautiful contrast, grounding the space while maintaining an airy feel; or weathered wood flooring offers a warm, beachy feel – you can’t go wrong in either case.

Walls painted in a soft white (true white may be too severe to achieve the softer muted look in this case,) light greige, or muted blue complement these elements, enhancing the bright and open aesthetic.

In much of my home, I lean heavily into this Classic Coastal Elegance color palette. These colors have been my go-to choices for creating a serene and timeless ambiance throughout my spaces.

By sharing these favorite Sherwin Williams shades with you, I hope to inspire your own design journey. Whether you’re looking to refresh your kitchen or transform your entire home, these hues are versatile and can beautifully complement a variety of decor styles.

Take a look at the graphic below to explore these beach-inspired colors that can help you achieve that relaxed coastal vibe you’re dreaming of!

Actionable Ideas

Bring these colors into your kitchen through thoughtful accessories. In my own space, I love using aqua dishware and white and aqua serving pieces for entertaining. I add a personal flair with vintage glassware in shades of blue and green.

Dishtowels, in muted aqua and gray, gorgeously tie the look together. A soft white table runner with a faint blue stripe brings a breezy, coastal charm to the space.

I love to add a pop of color with transparent aqua glass vases filled with fresh or faux greenery. These elements really amp up the coastal vibes and make the space feel fresh and welcoming.

And of course, a piece of driftwood or a basket of shells can effortlessly boost that beachy feel, making the kitchen a perfect blend of classic and contemporary.

And don’t forget about seating! If your counter stools aren’t quite fitting your coastal vibe, a quick and easy DIY update can make all the difference. No need to replace them—just check out this simple counter stool makeover for a budget-friendly refresh that ties everything together.

2. Nautical Blues & Teals

Picture this: you’re standing on the beach at dusk, watching as the waves roll in, their deep, rich blues blending seamlessly with the sky. The bold and sophisticated hues of navy and teal perfectly capture the essence of the sea.

Now, imagine bringing that serene vibe into your kitchen. Pair these deep ocean colors with crisp whites for a striking contrast that feels both fresh and timeless.

Whether you use navy and teal as dominant colors (cabinetry, walls or backsplash, for example) or as accents (counter stools, small appliances, accents, etc) they add a bold pop of color that feels distinctly nautical and incredibly chic.

Cabinetry, Countertop, Flooring & Wall Color Pairings

Navy blue or teal cabinetry makes a bold statement against white marble or light quartz countertops.

For flooring, pair whitewashed wood or light gray tiles with these deep rich hues of navy or teal to keep the space open and airy.

Walls in a soft white or very light gray can also help to balance the darker tones of the cabinetry.

Actionable Ideas

I suggest highlighting these deep blues with navy dishware or a teal kitchen island. Brass or gold accents, like a polished brass faucet or cabinet handles, can add a touch of warmth and sophistication. Brushed gold or polished brass look seriously AMAZING against deep navy, blue or teal. Seriously, this is one of my most favorite cabinet/hardware combos.

For a softer touch, mix in white or neutral items, such as a white ceramic utensil holder or a light gray table runner. Add a few navy and white striped towels or a navy vase filled with fresh greenery for a classic nautical vibe. Gorgeous!

3. Earthy Beach House Vibes

Imagine stepping onto a sandy beach. Where the soft greens of seagrass sway in the breeze, and weathered driftwood rests on the shore. Earthy coastal tones bring these natural elements into your kitchen, creating a warm and organic atmosphere.

Think muted greens, soft browns, and sandy beiges. These colors evoke a calming, inviting feel that perfectly captures the serene beauty of the coast.

Whether you’re going for a laid-back vibe or something a bit more refined, this palette is all about embracing nature and bringing the outdoors in. It’s like a cozy beach house vibe, but right in your own home.

Cabinetry, Countertop, Flooring & Wall Color Pairings

Driftwood brown cabinetry or accents perfectly complement white or light granite countertops, offering a clean and natural contrast.

For flooring, medium to light wood or stone tiles in beige or gray tones work beautifully, adding warmth and grounding the space.

Walls in soft sage green or light beige enhance the earthy vibe, creating a calm and inviting backdrop. (Check out Sherwin Williams Herbal Wash – one of my go to shades.)

Actionable Ideas

I suggest using wooden cutting boards and utensils to add warmth and texture. Driftwood picture frames or a seagrass basket filled with fruit can bring on the coastal vibe.

For a more coastal flair, consider soft misty green ceramics or glassware that echo the soothing colors of the sea. Fill a wooden bowl with rope and glass orbs, white coral decor or a collection of shells for a centerpiece.

These elements not only highlight the coastal theme but also create a serene and welcoming kitchen space. If you prefer a more beachy vibe, incorporate elements like white coral decor, a collection of shells in a glass bowl, or a rattan serving tray with a pattered inlay.

4. Vibrant Tropical Touches

If you’re looking to bring the vibrant energy of the tropics into your kitchen, bold coastal palettes are the way to go. This look is all about eye-catching colors like coral and aqua. These shades evoke the lively and playful essence of coastal living. It’s like having the bright coral reefs and clear tropical waters right in your home. Perfect for anyone wanting to infuse their kitchen with a burst of color.

Cabinetry, Countertop, Flooring & Wall Color Pairings

Coral and aqua look stunning against neutral cabinetry, such as white or light gray. For countertops, choose a neutral stone or quartz to balance the vibrant accents.

While whitewashed wood or light gray tiles offer a light and airy feel, dark flooring can also be a striking option. It provides a dramatic contrast that makes the bold colors pop even more.

Soft, neutral wall colors like light beige or pale blue ensure the space remains cohesive and not overwhelming.

Actionable Ideas

I suggest incorporating these colors through vibrant coral hot pads, aqua placemats, and bright dishware like this bowl set that’s perfect for cereal, ice cream, taco toppings, etc.. An aqua vase filled with fresh flowers can serve as a stunning focal point. Coral-colored cooking utensils or a set of aqua bar stools can make a bold statement.

To maintain balance, mix in plenty of white or neutral elements, like a white ceramic serving tray or a neutral-toned tablecloth. Add a pop of greenery with a potted plant to tie the look together.

5. Soft Sunset Dream

Now let’s talk about bringing a dreamy, sunset vibe into your kitchen with a Soft Sunset Dream palette. Imagine the soft, muted hues of a seaside sunset—light pinks, gentle yellows into warm tangerine, and soft, airy blues—creating a tranquil, dreamy atmosphere. It’s perfect for those of us who love that airy, carefree coastal feel.

This palette captures the soothing colors of a sunset by the sea, making your kitchen a refreshing escape every day of the year!

Cabinetry, Countertop, Flooring & Wall Color Pairings

Pair pastel accents with white or light-colored cabinetry to keep the look fresh and bright. Countertops in light granite or quartz enhance the soft palette.

For flooring, whitewashed or light wood provides a seamless, airy base. Walls in a very light pastel or soft white can create a perfect backdrop.

Actionable Ideas

I suggest adding pastel dishware, such as light pink bowls or soft blue plates, to the mix. A vase with pastel flowers or a set of pastel-colored glasses can add a playful touch.

For textiles, consider light pink or soft yellow dish towels and a pastel-striped table runner. To tie it all together, add a few small decor pieces like a pastel-colored clock, a set of light blue coasters, a lavender tea set, or framed pastel art to complete the look.

Adding one or two potted plants can help make the space feel cheerful and inviting. And while it might seem a bit on the nose given this theme, framed photos of sunsets would be a fabulous addition, tying in the palette’s soft, warm tones beautifully. The result? A kitchen that’s as soothing and delightful as a walk on the beach.

Practical Tips for a Cohesive Coastal Kitchen Decor

Ok now you’re surely inspired and already on your way to Target! But hold your horses!

Before diving into your decor choices, take a step back and assess your kitchen’s existing elements—cabinetry, countertops, and flooring. These are the foundational pieces that set the tone for your decor and are generally not easily changed.

For instance, if your kitchen features a neutral or monochromatic scheme, you have the flexibility to introduce colorful accents without overwhelming the space. This gives you the freedom to play with a range of colors and textures in your decorative pieces.

If you’re not sure how to style your space once you’ve picked your palette, this post on my go-to coastal decorating rule will walk you through it—step by step.

Avoiding Coastal Kitchen Design Flops!

One of the biggest pitfalls in decorating is not considering the existing finishes in your kitchen. For example, if your kitchen has dominant oak woodwork, introducing a bright, vibrant sky blue might feel stark and out of place. The contrast can be jarring and disrupt the visual harmony of the space.

However, this doesn’t mean you need to abandon your love for blue. Instead, select tones that blend seamlessly with your existing finishes. For example, a dusty, chalky blue or richer navy blue can be introduced through accessories like a ceramic piece or a wood vase with a subtle blue stripe.

Why? Natural oak, one of the warmest wood species, pairs beautifully with colors that have deep, muted bases. Plus, blue and orange are opposites on the color wheel, creating a pleasing contrast that naturally complements each other.

These thoughtful choices help to marry the new elements with the existing ones, creating a cohesive and harmonious look.

You want your kitchen to feel thoughtfully styled, not like a mix of random pieces thrown together. By working with the permanent features of your space, you can choose colors and styles that complement them—making your kitchen both beautiful and functional.

If you have trouble pairing the right colors with your woodwork, reach out for suggestions!

If you’re new to color schemes or want to start from the basics, head to Your Guide to Home Color Schemes for Coastal Interiors.

Continue Your Coastal Kitchen Refresh

Choosing the right coastal kitchen color palette is just the beginning! Now, it’s time to bring your look to life with effortless styling details.

➡️ Wondering how to actually style your space once you’ve picked your palette? This post breaks down my go-to decorating rule—One Bold, Two Calm—to help you confidently choose colors, accents, and textures without overthinking it.

➡️ Start with your countertops! Check out Kitchen Countertop Decor Ideas: Simple Styling Tips for easy ways to style your counters so they blend seamlessly with your space.

➡️ Transforming a breakfast nook? I’ve got you covered with practical, stylish advice to make it feel cozy, functional, and full of coastal charm.

➡️ Then, pull it all together at the table! Whether it’s everyday meals or casual gatherings, the right coastal table decor makes all the difference. Get the easiest styling tricks, color pairings, and quick swaps in this must-read guide!

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