Classic Coastal Style: Timeless Design Tips for Your Home

The weathered cedar shingles, crisp white trim, picket fences, soft blues, and overflowing hydrangea bushes—all set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean—have become deeply embedded in my sense of style. The same views I marveled at as a child continue to endure, looking just as beautiful and timeless as they did back then.

As I grew older, I developed an appreciation for the slower, southern charm I encountered during visits to the Carolinas. When my husband and I moved to North Carolina 15 years ago, we discovered the South Carolina Lowcountry—a place where I finally found the perfect balance of my two favorite worlds. The Spanish moss-draped live oaks, peaceful marsh views, and wide, welcoming front porches with swings captured my heart, and the slower pace of life instantly felt like home.

It was then that I realized the style that truly resonates with me, which I now call “Classic Coastal.” It blends the timeless New England aesthetic (think Ralph Lauren, Jackie O, Nantucket) with touches of Southern charm—feminine florals, soft color palettes, and an overall calming atmosphere.

When we built our semi-custom home five years ago, I was excited to bring this vision to life. It inspired me to start my Instagram page, @PalmettoPorchatHome, where I share my journey of blending these two styles in every corner of our home.

2) A Nature-Inspired Color Palette

Think of the soft coastal blues and greens of the sky and sea, combined with neutrals like white, tan, and brown.

Over time, I’ve brought in more wallpaper and painted accents in these colors to add personality to different spaces, while still maintaining a cohesive feel throughout. One of my favorite spaces is the powder room, where I used charming Thibault wallpaper and painted the trim in Farrow & Ball Parma Gray. It’s the perfect blue-gray—timeless, soothing, and versatile.

To bring warmth to the space, I incorporated natural wood tones. For example, we chose wide-plank engineered white oak hardwood flooring throughout our home to balance the white walls with some natural texture and warmth.

3) Incorporate Texture for Warmth

Rattan and caning are two of my favorite materials to create that quintessential coastal charm. These elements add warmth to a space and instantly transport you to the beach—no matter where you live.

One of my favorite splurges are my Serena & Lily rattan counter stools with a pop of blue-and-white gingham on the cushions. At the time, there weren’t as many great budget-friendly options, but I’ve since found several beautiful, affordable pieces that give a designer-inspired look.

About the Author:

Amy Dusseault’s love for coastal living runs deep, having been raised in Western Massachusetts and spending every summer on the picturesque shores of Cape Cod. After earning her degree outside of Boston, Amy made her way to New York City, where she launched her career in Advertising and Marketing. But the charm of New England was never far behind. She returned to Boston, where she married her husband in a beautiful seaside ceremony in Chatham, MA. Their journey took them next to South Florida for two years before ultimately finding home in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Over the years, Amy and her husband have designed and built two semi-custom homes—each one a reflection of their shared vision for timeless, coastal-inspired living. These homes, along with her travels and experiences, sparked her passion for sharing her “Classic Coastal” style with others.

When she’s not curating beautiful spaces, you can find Amy soaking in the Southern charm of her new home, exploring design inspiration, or enjoying life surrounded by family and friends.

Find Amy Dusseault on Socials @palmettoporchathome and visit her website palmettoporchathome.com

Photos provided by: Amy Dusseault