Why Some Illinois Homes Are Borrowing From Coastal Design Trends
Illinois homeowners are bringing the beach to the Midwest with coastal design trends. Far from the ocean waves, these inland homes are embracing light colors, natural textures, and breezy vibes that make every day feel like a seaside getaway.
I’ve noticed more and more Illinois neighbors transforming their spaces with these refreshing coastal elements, creating peaceful retreats in the heart of the Prairie State.
1. Escape from Midwest Winter Blues
The long, gray Illinois winters can feel endless. Coastal design offers a mental vacation with its bright, airy spaces that combat seasonal depression. Light-reflecting white walls and blue accents remind me of sunny skies and ocean waters.
Many of my clients report feeling happier in their coastal-inspired spaces. The design psychology works – surrounding yourself with beachy elements tricks your brain into feeling more relaxed, even when snow is piling up outside your window.
2. Natural Light Maximization
Coastal design celebrates sunshine, something we cherish during our limited warm months. Sheer curtains, strategically placed mirrors, and light-colored furnishings bounce daylight throughout the home, creating that sun-soaked beach house feeling.
I’ve removed heavy drapes and installed larger windows in my own home to capture every ray of sunshine possible. This approach works wonders in older Illinois homes that traditionally featured smaller windows and darker interiors as protection against harsh weather.
3. Lake Michigan Connection
While we don’t have ocean access, Lake Michigan provides our own version of coastal living. Homes near Chicago often incorporate design elements that celebrate this massive freshwater treasure through panoramic windows facing the lake and color palettes matching its blues and sandy shores.
Even for homes hours from the lake, bringing in these elements creates a psychological connection to our state’s most impressive natural feature. My favorite trick is using large-scale lake photography as statement art pieces in dining rooms and entryways.
4. Simplified Living Philosophy
Coastal design brings more than just aesthetics – it introduces a whole lifestyle shift. The clutter-free, simplified approach feels revolutionary in contrast to traditional Midwestern decorating that often leans toward coziness through accumulation.
My family has embraced this minimalist coastal philosophy by keeping only what brings joy or serves a purpose. Open spaces and breathing room between furniture pieces create a sense of freedom that’s particularly welcome during months when we’re stuck indoors.
5. Affordable Luxury Appeal
Beach houses carry an automatic sense of luxury, and bringing these elements inland creates instant elevation. The beauty lies in how achievable this look is – simply swapping heavy furniture for lighter pieces, adding natural textures, and incorporating blue accents can transform a space.
Coastal design offers tremendous bang for your buck in the Illinois housing market. Real estate agents tell me homes with these features often sell faster and at higher prices. Buyers respond emotionally to spaces that feel like vacation destinations, especially when they’re located in landlocked communities.
