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10 Nautical-Inspired Decorating Ideas

Sailor stripes, rope accents, and aquatic hues rule in these modern takes on nautical decor

Jess Chamberlain
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Shades of Blue

A good rule of thumb for nautical style at home: Start with a white base, keep woods exposed, and mix it up with blue hues.

Pro tip: Though this kitchen was largely sourced from Ikea, architect Constance Treadwell helped give it a designer look by adding an exposed plywood edge to the laminate countertop.

2 /10 Thomas J. Story

Pattern Play

Nautical style begs for blue and white stripes, but variations on a blue-white-red combo of any sort will do the trick. Here, interior designer Brian Paquette upholstered a bedroom headboard with vintage Japanese boro, an indigo patchwork.

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Picnic Anywhere

Bring that beach barbecue look home—thankfully, sand not included—with tabletop wares sporting blue-and-white stripes.

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Marine Light

Get that nautical look with industrial-style pendant lights. Line up a few to illuminate a dining space.

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The Rope Effect

  • Hung Mirror, $650; water jet cut mirror and manila rope

Reminiscent of ship style, chose decor with rope elements.

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Take It Outside

Whether your home is seaside or not, create a festive beach-house vibe by a mixing light-hued wood dining set with blue textiles and taking it outdoors.

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Riviera Dreams

A European bistro chair in blue and white chevron?! Dreams of lounging on the French Riviera do come true! In the dining room or on the patio, these pair well with rosé and baguettes.

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Themed Accessories

Add some oceanic fun to the kiddos' room with this whale lamp made of mango wood (with a cotton shade).

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Reinvent Textiles

In this master bathroom, a pair of signal flags serve as drapery, creating a pop of color with an ethereal feel.

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Stripe Style

Nothing simulates beach time like a space for lolling. And nothing says "take it easy" more than a hammock.