Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop: The Simple Things

Hello, and welcome to the Wonderful Wednesday blog hop! I’m so happy you’re here and hope your week is going great. Mine has been busy, busy, busy with life and work—but in the middle of it all, I’ve been finding joy in simple pleasures: scrolling through pretty photos on Pinterest or Instagram (anyone else do that?), taking walks even on windy days, cooking a delicious, slightly fancy meal (even if it’s just for me), curling up with a good book, and spending time with my dog. And this weekend, I’m especially excited because I’m heading to the movie theater—something I haven’t done in ages!

I can’t wait to see The Gardener starring Radha Mitchell. As a gardener, anything related to a garden, and I AM THERE. The film follows a middle-aged woman who decides to shake things up a bit and figure out what she really wants out of life, and along the way she reconnects with herself. And I emphasize middle-age because I love seeing women my age on the screen, and as a lead. Not only am I a big fan of the actress, but the film videos I have seen are gorgeous. I’ve been keeping an eye on this film since it was announced because I love the premise. The movie is a limited release in selected theaters, so I am so thrilled is is being shown in Rochester. Have you seen the movie by any chance?

Anyhow, let’s jump into today’s blog hop!

MOST POPULAR POST

Nurturing Beauty: Spring Delights in the Garden by Thrifting Wonderland

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Decoupage Bookmarks using Metal Tags by Crazy Little Love Birds.

As a booklover, I adored these! The are beautiful and seem fairly easy to make!

A Grandma Who Loves Gardening, Reading, and Games by Handmade in Israel

Ok, seriously— how beautiful are these handmade cards? I am not super crafty, so these just wowed me!

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Adding Modern Coastal Touches Without the Kitsch

If you’re starting from scratch and craving that light, coastal feel at home, it can be tempting to reach for all the obvious pieces. But I’ve always been drawn to a softer, more layered version of coastal style—one that feels lived-in rather than themed. My approach leans into warm neutrals, natural textures, and that relaxed elegance you see in Indie Hicks West Indies style, balanced with the crisp simplicity of Nantucket interiors.

If I’m honest, that pull probably started long before I ever thought about “design.” Growing up in the Caribbean, light wasn’t something you had to create—it was just there. Rooms felt open, breezes moved through easily, and nothing was overly precious. Later, I found myself equally drawn to that New England coastal aesthetic—tailored but still relaxed, classic but never fussy.

Somewhere along the way, those two influences blended into what I now think of as my version of coastal: airy but grounded, casual but intentional. And whether you’re building a space from the ground up or simply refreshing what you have, the goal is the same—to create a home that feels like the coast, without ever looking like a souvenir shop.

Here’s how to bring in that coastal energy without tipping into kitschy territory.


Start With a Calm, Neutral Base

Coastal style isn’t about piling on ocean-themed décor—it’s about evoking how the coast feels. Think soft, sun-washed tones:

  • Warm whites instead of stark white

  • Sandy beiges and light taupes

  • Muted blues and soft greens (not bright nautical navy everywhere)

Your walls, larger furniture, and rugs should feel like a quiet backdrop. This creates that airy, open feeling that coastal homes are known for.

Focus on Natural Textures

If you do nothing else, do this. Texture is what separates elevated coastal from cliché coastal. Incorporate materials like:

  • Linen (curtains, throw pillows)

  • Cotton (slipcovers, bedding)

  • Rattan or wicker (chairs, baskets)

  • Light or weathered wood

  • Jute or sisal rugs

These elements add depth without shouting “beach theme.”


Edit Your “Beachy” Decor

You don’t need to ban seashells—but you do need to curate them. Instead of bowls of shells everywhere, starfish on every surface and/or anchors (please, no anchors), try—

  • One simple glass jar with a few meaningful shells

  • A single coral sculpture

  • Driftwood as a natural accent

Think collected, not decorated.

Let Light Do the Work

Coastal spaces feel open and breathable because they maximize natural light.

  • Use sheer or lightweight curtains

  • Avoid heavy window treatments

  • Keep furniture from blocking windows

  • Add mirrors to reflect light around the room

If your space lacks natural light, use warm, soft lighting to mimic that glow.

Choose Art That Suggests, Not Shouts

Skip the obvious “BEACH” signs and literal ocean prints. Instead, look for:

  • Abstract art in coastal colors

  • Landscape photography with subtle shoreline hints

  • Textured wall hangings or woven pieces

The goal is to suggest the coast, not label it.

Keep Furniture Comfortable and Livable

Coastal style leans relaxed, not rigid. Think slipcovered sofas, slightly oversized seating and pieces that invite you to put your feet up. Nothing should feel too precious. If you’re worried about messing it up, it’s probably not coastal.


Bring in Greenery (But Keep It Simple)

Plants add life and freshness, which is essential to this look. Stick with:

  • Olive trees

  • Snake plants

  • Simple leafy greens in neutral pots

Avoid overly tropical arrangements unless that’s specifically the vibe you want.


Use Color Sparingly for Impact

A coastal palette doesn’t mean everything has to be blue. Instead:

  • Keep most of the room neutral

  • Add a few blue or sea-glass accents

  • Layer in soft contrast through textiles

This keeps the space feeling sophisticated instead of themed.


Leave Space to Breathe

One of the biggest mistakes? Over-decorating. Coastal homes feel peaceful because they aren’t crowded. Give your furniture and décor room to exist without filling every corner. Empty space isn’t unfinished—it’s intentional.


Final Thought

A true coastal vibe isn’t about recreating the beach—it’s about capturing its calm. When you focus on light, texture, and simplicity, you create a space that feels grounded, relaxed, and timeless. And the best part? You won’t feel like you need to hide a ceramic lighthouse every time someone comes over.