Shea McGee has long been designing thoughtful spaces that mix the modern with the rustic. She founded Studio McGee in 2014 with her partner, Syd, and has been creating sophisticated and homely designs ever since. Shea's projects are recognizable in style yet feel individually unique, each encompassing the studio's core design values.
A master at designing inviting yet elevated spaces, Shea loves to predict design trends and incorporate them within her projects. An interior style that Shea has recently taken inspiration from is the classic coastal aesthetic. You'll typically see bold stripes, a blue and white palette, and lots of beachy decor in nautical-style spaces, making it instantly recognizable. It's been popular for years so Shea has taken the style and given it a much-needed lesson in refinement.
In a recent Instagram video, Shea explains how she uses the theme of the coast and elevates it with her subtle design approach. She says she's 'seen this design trend coming for a while', so let's see what all the hype is about.
We all know and love the coastal-inspired interior style. It's been around for a while but has continued to be a popular favorite amongst designers likely due to its calming qualities and ability to transport you to a place of serenity.
Although the beachy style can sometimes look beautiful, coastal decor can also feel over the top when executed poorly. Shea acknowledges this and explains, 'Like anything, you can take this to the extreme and do lots of shells, seaside textures, and colors in your home.'
Instead, she suggests taking the coastal inspiration less literally by incorporating only a handful of sea-related motifs. She suggests, 'You can do this in a really subtle way and just add a few decorative accents.' Mix these with other neutral decor and muted coastal color scheme and you'll have a sophisticated version of the nautical trend.
Predicting that the classic style would come back around, Shea how she's 'Created two really beautiful objects for McGee & Co that allow you to play with this trend.' What she loves most about them is their versatility and ability to elevate an empty area, while remaining on the tasteful side of coastal decor. In her video she explains, 'They'd both do well on a coffee table or on a shelf. I think that it’s so fun to play with these things.'
It's important to incorporate character when designing a scheme as it will make the space feel individual. And of course, so many of us have an affiliation with the seaside, so bringing nods into your home is an easy way to add some meaningful touches. As Shea explains, 'Many of us have memories or feel really inspired by the sea, so it’s a great trend to play within your home.'
Shop our picks for chic coastal inspired decor
Shea praises the decorative quality of this tulip shell ornament. It's the perfect coffee table, shelf, or mantelpiece that provides a touch of luxury whilst subtlely nodding to the sea.
Dubbed the Baroque Shell, this decorative object is inspired by classical sculpture. It can be placed on pretty much any surface to tie in with the coastal theme and elevate an empty area.
No sea-inspired scheme is complete without a fresh, clean scent. McGee & Co has created a refreshing and uplifting candle, inspired by the sea's salty water.
Stripes are an obvious yet classic choice when creating a coastal-inspired space. Soft furnishings like pillows are easy elements to change and can drastically change the feel of a room. This silk stripe pillow cover is an example of this and would look great in a coastal-style bedroom.
Rattan has an earthy, organic feel that feels particularly relevant to the beach aesthetic. From headboards to chairs, it's a versatile material that's both sturdy and sophisticated while bringing a paired-back vibe to any space.
No wall is complete without a piece of art, so to create a coordinated scheme, match your wall hangings to the theme of your space. The Mediterranean Islands picture will transport you to a tranquil place and remind you of past seaside memories.
Nautical-themed interiors can feel summery, but with Shea's design approach, your space will feel lasting and timeless. Remember to tone down the sea imagery and use color, texture, and pattern to create a peaceful, beachy haven.
