10 Seaside-Inspired Exterior Decor Ideas For New England Homes

New England homes have a special charm that pairs perfectly with seaside-inspired decor. From weathered shingles to nautical accents, these coastal touches can transform your home’s exterior into a maritime haven.

I’ve gathered some fantastic ideas to help you capture that breezy, salt-kissed New England aesthetic that neighbors will admire and guests will remember.

1. Weathered Cedar Shingles

Nothing says New England coastal charm like cedar shingles that have been kissed by the salty air. Over time, they develop a gorgeous silvery-gray patina that perfectly captures that seaside vibe. I recommend installing them on your entire home exterior or just as an accent on gables or dormers.

The natural aging process creates a timeless look that improves year after year. For instant character, you can even buy pre-weathered shingles to achieve that lived-in coastal appeal immediately.

2. Nautical Lighting Fixtures

Your porch lights can tell a story about your home’s personality. Marine-inspired brass lanterns or caged bulkhead lights bring authentic harbor flair to entryways and porches. I’ve found that these fixtures cast the most magical glow during evening gatherings.

Look for weather-resistant options in copper, brass, or bronze that will develop a beautiful patina over time. Some modern versions even come with convenient dusk-to-dawn sensors while maintaining that classic seafaring look we all love.

3. Driftwood Address Signs

Make your home instantly identifiable with a handcrafted driftwood address plaque. The weathered wood and hand-painted numbers create a welcoming first impression that’s uniquely yours. I’ve created my own using pieces collected from beach walks, but many local artisans specialize in these charming markers.

For added coastal flair, incorporate small decorative elements like starfish or miniature anchors alongside your house numbers. The natural variations in driftwood ensure no two signs are ever exactly alike.

4. Rope-Wrapped Porch Railings

Thick nautical rope wrapped around porch posts or railings brings an immediate seaside feel to your entryway. The natural texture contrasts beautifully against painted surfaces while nodding to maritime traditions. You’ll want to use authentic marine-grade rope that can withstand the elements.

I’ve found that sealing it with a clear marine varnish helps prevent fraying and extends its life. This detail works especially well on white or navy blue porches, creating that classic yacht club aesthetic that’s so quintessentially New England.

5. Lobster Trap Coffee Table

Authentic wooden lobster traps make surprisingly functional outdoor tables when topped with tempered glass. They bring undeniable maritime character to any porch or deck space. My neighbor repurposed an antique trap from her grandfather’s collection, and it’s always the conversation starter during gatherings.

You can find vintage traps at coastal antique shops or order new ones specially designed for furniture use. Some even include hidden storage space inside – perfect for stashing outdoor pillows when rain threatens.

6. Shell-Lined Garden Paths

Create magical walkways by lining garden paths with collected seashells, scallops, or oysters. The white shells pop against green landscaping and add a distinctly coastal texture underfoot. After a summer beach-combing session, I rinse my shell collection and use it to define the edges of my herb garden.

For a more permanent installation, shells can be embedded in concrete or mixed with pea gravel. The sun-bleached fragments reflect light beautifully and crunch pleasantly as visitors make their way to your door.

7. Blue Hydrangea Borders

Blue hydrangeas are the unofficial flower of coastal New England. Their spectacular blooms mirror the ocean’s color palette and thrive in the region’s climate. Last summer, I planted a row along my front walkway, and they’ve transformed the entire approach to our home.

The large, mophead varieties make the biggest visual impact, especially when planted in groups of three or five. For that authentic Cape Cod blue color, amend your soil with aluminum sulfate before planting – a garden center trick I learned from a Martha’s Vineyard landscaper.

8. Porthole-Style Windows

Round or octagonal porthole windows add unexpected nautical charm to garden sheds, garage doors, or even as accent windows on the home itself. They instantly evoke ships and seafaring traditions. My favorite installation is a brass porthole we salvaged from an old boat and installed in our garden shed door.

For new construction, many window manufacturers offer porthole-inspired designs with modern weatherproofing. Place them strategically where they’ll catch attention – perhaps flanking your entry door or as a surprise element on a side wall.

9. Dockside Deck Furniture

Adirondack chairs in weathered whites, blues, or greens create instant coastal appeal on any porch or deck. Their low, sloped design practically begs you to relax with a cold drink and a sea breeze. I’ve found that cedar or teak versions age beautifully in salty air.

For maximum comfort, add nautical striped cushions and small side tables made from repurposed lobster buoys. During winter months, I bring cushions inside but leave the chairs to develop that perfectly weathered patina that only comes from exposure to authentic New England elements.

10. Ship’s Bell Door Chime

Replace your standard doorbell with an authentic ship’s bell for visitors to announce their arrival. The clear, resonant tone carries across your property with distinctive maritime character. During our home renovation, I installed a polished brass bell beside our front door with a simple pull rope.

Guests love the interactive experience of ringing it. For a more modern approach, some companies now offer doorbell systems that use the sound of a ship’s bell while maintaining the convenience of a button. Either way, the distinctive sound will become part of your home’s signature welcome.