Whether it’s your home or cottage, near the water or nestled in the trees, a nautical theme is fun and fresh. The look is easy and breezy, bringing summer inside and keeping it there all year round. Let’s get started on how you can create a nautical decor theme in your space… Be Subtle. Pardon the pun, but don’t go overboard on the nautical decor theme. You want to be choosy with your accessories and keep it simple and clean. Trinkets will cheapen the look.

Colour Scheme. No surprise that blue is the mainstay colour in this theme. But don’t limit yourself to one shade – light blue, midnight blue, navy blue, aqua, seafoam green and turquoise all fit the bill – with darker blues adding elegance. Taupes, beiges and khakis are ideal neutrals to blend with blue and keep the feeling natural and sophisticated. Combine them with white, the perfect mate to blue, on your walls, upholstery or furniture.

Tip: A splash of colour in a nautical decor scheme – perhaps red or sunny yellow – adds style.

Fabrics. Again, blues, whites and beiges are lovely choices; choose neutral for expensive furniture pieces. To add pattern, gingham and plaid marry well with the nautical look. Stripes are a hallmark of nautical styling and are charming for curtains, table linens, bed linens, upholstery and cushions. In fact, cushions are a great way to incorporate fun touches – shop around for anchor and knot motifs.

Tip: Linen is a beautiful fabric that fits well with the nautical theme. Reserve it for items that will not get a lot of wear as it is prone to stretching over time.

Furniture. Really, any style of furniture pairs well with the nautical look – it depends on your overall decor. Dark, traditional woods are gorgeous against blue and white, particularly with navy. Wicker and rattan lend a cozy, cottage feel. Distressed wood pieces or vintage-styled pieces suit this theme to a tee, again, for an informal setting. White furniture in any style also works – it’s so light and crisp. Finally, consider adding antique accents to your mix; perhaps a trunk or chest.

Accessories. Less is more. On your walls, opt for simple nature/ocean scenes or even maps Driftwood, shells, beach rocks and corals make excellent display pieces. Try your hand at incorporating rugged rope as an accent trim around lamp bases, vases, etc. The sound of a babbling brook is the ultimate nautical accessory. Find a beautiful fountain for your home; lots of options are available in a variety of sizes.

Tip: Blue and white china, old or new, in mix and match patterns, is perfect – on display or for everyday use.

Natural Elements. Remember, it’s all about bringing nature inside. Stick with natural items when you can – for example – woven window shades, jute/sea grass rugs, cotton slip covers and nubby silk draperies.