The ideal home is an oasis away from the rest of the world. Not only do you want your living space to be functional, but most homeowners also want to achieve a stylish and unique design that shows off a bit of their personal taste. There are many different interior design styles and themes that you can choose from when decorating your home, but the nautical style is becoming increasingly popular and really easy to add to any room in your home. 

Whatever you may have thought about nautical decorations of the past, things have really changed in the last 10 years because there are so many more options available. However, making a nautical theme work within your home or living space is more art than science, so you need to know how to add a touch of the style that is comfortable and appealing.

Here are a few of the best home nautical decorating ideas you should try:

Layered Stripes

One thing that you need to know about nautical style is that it does not have to be over the top. Once in a while, we see rooms that are cluttered with so many nautical items that it becomes a bit overwhelming. The trick is to subtly layer in patterns, items, and colors that give off a coastal vibe.One of the most popular patterns you should consider is the nautical stripe look. Stripes that are in blue, white (and sometimes red) colors look stylish, clean, and classic, all mainstays of the nautical style. Before you run out to buy a sofa or brand new curtains, consider that one of the best ways to add stripes to any room is with throw pillows. You can display pillows of all sizes and layered designs on your couch and armchairs in these nautical colors. It is a really simple and elegant way to ease into nautical style.

Nautical Lights

Reflecting a nautical theme in your home also depends largely upon a consistent use of timeless design elements. One of the centerpieces of nautical décor is nautical lighting, which can be used either inside or outside your home or office. Popular choices with interior designers are Key West style lighting and salvaged lights from ships. Both evoke a wistful sense of life on the water, and unlike nautical artwork and home accessories, nautical lighting is primarily functional design because it lights the room it is in. One word of guidance, when choosing your lighting, try to keep to one type of material in each room. For instance, if you are using a beehive fox light made from copper in your kitchen, think carefully before installing aluminum or brass dock lights in the same space. You can save those for the dining room, bathroom, or entryway.

Mahogany Kitchen Design

Another way that you can add the nautical theme to your home is to start with the kitchen. A great nautical idea is the yacht kitchen design look of mahogany kitchen countertops. This will give you the look and feel of being on the water. You can then add blue and white as the color theme to go along with the mahogany and you will have the classic coastal look that people love.

Small Items

When it comes to nautical style, you want to be subtle. This means that if you are going to add decor items, try to make them fit in naturally. Less, as they say, is more. You can add nautical maps, small boat replicas, marine flags, rope, and perhaps antique fishing paraphernalia, that fit in with the space and look just right in any room that you choose.