For the Third Year in a row, the team at Coastal Cottage has been voted #1 by the Readers of the News-Leader, including Best for Interior Design and Best Home Boutique.

We’ve also been voted Best Place to Work, which makes us very proud!  Our Team loves what they do, and it shines through in their work and how we take amazing care of our customers.

Our owner and fearless leader, Yvonne Fenn, was also voted #1 Readers’ Choice as Best Columnist.   In honor of that, we thought we’d bring you a “Best of Top Ten Summary” of her design articles.   We hope you find an idea or two that inspires you!  And if you need any help with your home, the Team at CCOA is standing by to help.

Top 10 Interior Design Ideas from Coastal Cottage of Amelia

1. Choose the Right Scale & Layout

Great design starts with scale. Oversized furniture can overwhelm; undersized pieces can feel lost.

• Use rugs to define zones (like dining, conversation, or reading areas).

• Match furniture materials—wood, fabric, or metal—with the room’s scale and feel.

• Float furniture when possible instead of pushing everything to the wall. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-scale

2. Layer Window Treatments for Light & Comfort

Windows do more than bring in light—they’re an opportunity to elevate the feel of a space.

• Blackout shades are ideal for bedrooms and media rooms.

• Sheers soften sunlight in living areas without losing brightness.

• Layered curtains provide flexibility and a high-end, cozy aesthetic. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-window

3. Make a Statement with Wallpaper

Wallpaper has made a bold return—now with coastal flair and custom designs.

• Use it to define a feature wall in entryways, powder rooms, or behind the bed.

• Textured or patterned wallpaper adds visual interest without extra clutter.

• A cost-effective way to refresh any room without a full renovation. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-wallpaper

4. Master the Art of Color Layering

Rather than relying on one dominant color, build depth through layered tones.

• Start with a neutral base like sandy beige or soft gray.

• Add mid-tones through upholstery, rugs, or cabinets—think washed blues or warm greens.

• Finish with pops of accent color: coral pillows, ocean-inspired ceramics, or bold artwork. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-color

5. Use the ‘Thriller, Filler, Spiller’ Floral Trick

Faux or fresh, floral arrangements elevate any space—and the formula works every time:

• Thriller: tall, dramatic center like orchids or pampas grass

• Filler: mid-height blooms or greens (hydrangeas, eucalyptus)

• Spiller: cascading ivy or fern to soften edges
  Display in natural vessels like driftwood vases, ceramic pots, or sea-glass containers for a true coastal vibe. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-flowers

6. Mix Metals for a Curated Look

Design isn’t about matching everything—it’s about balance.

• Pair silver and black for a sleek modern look.

• Add touches of brushed gold or copper for warmth and contrast.

• Repeat metal finishes intentionally across fixtures, lamps, mirrors, and hardware to tie the space together. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-metals

7. Anchor Rooms with Large-Format Art

Oversized art makes a bold statement while simplifying decor choices.

• One large piece anchors the room—perfect above a sofa or mantle.

• Choose subjects that reflect your personality: abstract, ocean scenes, or vintage coastal prints.

• Keep surrounding decor simple so the artwork can breathe. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-art

8. Tap into 2025 Color Trends

Stay fresh by integrating updated colors into timeless designs.

• Sherwin-Williams’ 2025 palette features soft greens, muted terracotta, and smoky blues.

• Add trend colors through paint, pillows, throws, or accessories—not permanent fixtures.

• The goal is evolution, not overhaul. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-trends

9. Shop with Purpose, Not Pressure

Design is personal—don’t get overwhelmed by trends or endless options.

• Define your style (coastal, transitional, modern farmhouse).

• Choose pieces that reflect your lifestyle and can evolve with time.

• Avoid impulse buys—build your space one thoughtful choice at a time. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-style

10. Work with a Design Team That Understands You

Sometimes the best design decision is knowing when to call in the pros.

• Coastal Cottage doesn’t just sell furniture—they help create whole-home experiences.

• Whether it’s one room or a full renovation, their team brings vision, resources, and local charm to every project. 

Read more:bit.ly/coastal-team

Ready to transform your space into the coastal retreat of your dreams?
Click, call, or stop by our showroom today—our experienced, award winning design team is ready to bring your vision to life with personalized service, inspired style, and a passion for beautiful living.

📞 Call us at 904-580-0484
📧 Email: ccoainfo@icloud.com
📍 Visit us in historic Fernandina Beach!

Let’s design something beautiful—together.