Designing a Cornish Coastal Holiday Let: Tasteful, Classic, and Practical
When designing a holiday let on the Cornish coast, the aim is to capture the essence of coastal living while ensuring the space remains timeless, inviting, and functional for guests. At The Barn Interior Design, we recently completed a full refurbishment of a beautiful holiday let in Perranporth, Cornwall. This project taught us a lot about balancing practicality with a tasteful coastal aesthetic. Here, we’ll share our approach, tips, and recommendations for achieving a similar look.
Creating the Perfect Coastal Palette
The foundation of any coastal design is the colour palette. For the Perranporth project, we opted for soft, neutral tones inspired by the natural surroundings, such as sandy beiges, whites, and soft greys, complemented by muted blues and greens.
Key Tips for a Coastal Palette:
Stick to natural, calming colours to evoke the serenity of the sea.
Avoid overly bright or clichéd nautical tones; instead, lean towards subtle shades that feel sophisticated and timeless.
Incorporate texture with finishes like limewash walls or soft, weathered wood to add depth.
Choosing Coastal-Inspired Furniture
For a holiday let, furniture must strike a balance between comfort, practicality, and style. In the Perranporth project, we opted for durable materials like linen and easy-to-clean upholstery, paired with natural woods and rattan for a coastal touch.
Key Furniture Choices:
Choose slip-covered sofas or armchairs in neutral fabrics for easy maintenance.
Incorporate weathered wood coffee tables, sideboards, or dining sets to reflect the seaside setting.
Add subtle coastal accents like wicker chairs or rope-inspired light fixtures.
Accessories: Subtle Yet Impactful
Accessories play a significant role in establishing the coastal theme without going overboard. In Perranporth, we used understated elements like seascape artwork, striped cushions, and ceramic vases to add charm without veering into kitsch.
Tips for Tasteful Coastal Accessories:
Display seascape paintings, abstract wave prints, or black-and-white photography of the coastline.
Avoid overt nautical symbols like anchors and steering wheels; instead, focus on organic shapes and textures.
Use soft, striped or patterned textiles for cushions and throws to subtly evoke a seaside feel.
Flooring: Timeless and Practical
For the Perranporth project, we retained and refinished the original floorboards, bringing warmth and character to the space. In high-traffic areas, tiles were used for durability while complementing the coastal theme. These choices balanced aesthetics with the practical needs of a holiday let.
Key Flooring Tips:
Original floorboards can be a beautiful feature—sanding and staining them can give a refreshed yet authentic look.
Use tiles in areas like kitchens and bathrooms for their practicality and ease of maintenance.
Add rugs in natural materials like jute or sisal to provide texture and comfort.
Highlighting the Surroundings
One of the biggest advantages of a coastal holiday let is the proximity to stunning natural landscapes. For the Perranporth property, we made sure to incorporate design elements that echoed the breathtaking views of the nearby sea.
Ways to Bring the Outdoors In:
Use large windows or glass doors to maximise natural light and showcase the scenery.
Incorporate coastal colours and textures that mirror the surroundings.
Add artwork or photography of the local coastline to connect the interior to the outdoor beauty.
Optimising for Guests: Practical Touches
When designing for a holiday let, practicality is just as important as style. Guests should feel at home and have access to everything they need during their stay.
Practical Tips for a Holiday Let:
Provide ample storage for suitcases and belongings, especially in bedrooms.
Opt for wipeable paint finishes and stain-resistant fabrics to handle wear and tear.
Ensure there’s adequate lighting, including both task and ambient options, for maximum comfort.
Incorporate multifunctional furniture, such as ottomans with storage or extendable dining tables, to maximise flexibility.
Lighting: Setting the Mood
Lighting in a holiday let should be layered and adaptable. In Perranporth, we used a mix of pendant lights, table lamps, and wall sconces to create a welcoming, flexible atmosphere.
Lighting Ideas for a Coastal Look:
Choose pendant lights with a weathered or industrial feel, such as brushed metal or glass.
Use lamps with natural textures like ceramic or wood bases, paired with linen shades.
Install dimmers to let guests adjust lighting to their preference.
Designing a coastal holiday let is about creating a space that feels tranquil, luxurious, and connected to its surroundings. With a tasteful palette, practical furniture, and subtle coastal accents, you can craft an inviting retreat that keeps guests coming back year after year.
If you’re looking for inspiration or guidance for your coastal property, The Barn Interior Design is here to help. From full refurbishments to smaller updates, we can transform your space into a beautifully curated and functional holiday let. Contact us today to learn more.
