These 8 Coastal-Inspired Designs Are Changing The Look Of Utah Homes
Utah homeowners are bringing the beach to the desert with coastal-inspired designs that transform living spaces. Far from the ocean, these mountain state residents are embracing breezy colors, natural textures, and open layouts that capture seaside vibes.
The trend combines Utah’s rugged charm with coastal serenity, creating unique homes that feel like year-round vacations.
1. Crisp White and Blue Color Schemes
Nothing says coastal quite like the classic pairing of crisp whites with ocean blues. Utah homeowners are painting over their traditional beige walls with bright whites and adding pops of navy, turquoise, and seafoam green through accessories.
The transformation is immediate – rooms feel airier and more refreshing, especially during Utah’s dry summers. I’ve seen mountain homes completely reinvented with just a weekend’s worth of painting and some new throw pillows.
2. Natural Fiber Furnishings
Jute rugs, rattan chairs, and woven pendants are making major statements in Utah homes. These natural elements bring textural interest that contrasts beautifully with the state’s dramatic mountain landscapes visible through the windows.
You’ll find these materials softening modern spaces and adding warmth to minimalist designs. Many homeowners tell me these touches remind them of favorite beach vacations while still feeling appropriate in mountain settings.
3. Driftwood Accents
Weathered pieces of driftwood are showing up as statement art, table bases, and mantel decorations across Utah. Collected from vacations or purchased from local artisans, these sculptural elements bring organic shapes and coastal memories into mountain homes.
My favorite application pairs driftwood with locally sourced stone for a perfect blend of beach and mountain aesthetics. The neutral palette creates a soothing backdrop that works year-round, from snowy winters to sunny summers.
4. Shiplap Wall Treatments
Horizontal wood paneling reminiscent of beach cottages has sailed inland to Utah homes. Homeowners are installing shiplap on accent walls, kitchen islands, and even ceilings to add architectural interest with a distinctly coastal feel.
The trend works surprisingly well in Utah’s craftsman and mountain-style homes. White-painted shiplap brightens spaces during long winters, while natural or weathered finishes complement the state’s abundant wood elements and stone fireplaces.
5. Glass Bottle Collections
Sea glass-inspired collections are popping up on mantels and shelves across Utah. Homeowners display arrangements of blue, green, and aqua bottles that catch the abundant natural light and create a subtle nod to coastal collecting traditions.
The look is especially striking against Utah’s famous red rock elements or stone fireplaces. I’ve helped clients create stunning vignettes using vintage soda bottles in ocean hues paired with small driftwood pieces and air plants for an effortless coastal-meets-desert display.
6. Open Floor Plans With Abundant Light
Walls are coming down in Utah homes as residents embrace the airy, open concepts typical of beach houses. The goal is maximizing natural light and creating flow between indoor and outdoor spaces – perfect for enjoying Utah’s 300+ days of sunshine.
Large windows without heavy treatments let mountain views become the artwork. I recommend this approach especially for homes in Park City and Salt Lake’s foothills, where scenery rivals any ocean vista for breathtaking beauty.
7. Shell and Coral Motifs
Subtle nods to ocean life are appearing in unexpected places throughout Utah interiors. Coral-shaped sculptures, shell-patterned pillows, and beach-inspired artwork provide sophisticated coastal touches without feeling themed or kitschy.
The key is moderation. A single striking coral sculpture on a coffee table or framed vintage shell illustrations make elegant statements. My clients are particularly drawn to white ceramic coral pieces that add texture and visual interest while maintaining a clean, contemporary feel.
8. Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces
Covered patios with coastal-inspired furnishings are extending Utah living spaces outdoors, mimicking the seamless indoor-outdoor flow of oceanfront homes. Performance fabrics in sea blues and sandy neutrals withstand both summer sun and occasional mountain rain.
String lights, outdoor fireplaces, and potted grasses create beachy ambiance for enjoying Utah’s spectacular evening skies. My favorite projects include sliding glass walls that completely open living rooms to patios, creating spectacular entertainment spaces perfect for Utah’s comfortable summer evenings.
