Coastal Interiors Done Right: Expert Tips from a Leading Tampa Design Studio

Designing a coastal home isn’t just about choosing sea-inspired colors or decorating with shells. True coastal interiors are elegant, timeless, and grounded in the environment they’re part of. At Connelly & Co., a boutique interior design firm in Tampa, we specialize in crafting layered, livable spaces that reflect the Gulf Coast lifestyle with sophistication and warmth.

Whether you're building on the water, renovating an older home, or updating a vacation property, here’s what separates good coastal design from truly great.

Understanding the Coastal Context

Design begins with place. In Florida’s coastal environments, top design firms understand:

• Light is everything. Gulf Coast homes are bathed in natural sunlight, which influences color temperature, paint selection, and even furniture placement.

• Durability matters. Salt air, humidity, and heavy foot traffic (often barefoot) demand thoughtful choices in flooring, upholstery, and wall finishes.

• Views should be framed, not blocked. Interior layouts should emphasize the natural landscape and flow seamlessly from indoors to out.

At Connelly & Co., every project begins with the local landscape and lifestyle in mind—then we design to amplify both.

Timeless, Not Thematic

Coastal doesn’t have to mean cliché. Skip the starfish prints and rope mirrors. The best coastal interiors use:

• Natural materials like white oak, jute, linen, and cane.

• Soft, neutral palettes that highlight natural light and create a serene mood.

• Classic silhouettes with modern touches to ensure lasting appeal.

We specialize in a transitional coastal style—blending traditional structure with unexpected, personalized elements. It’s what keeps our projects both rooted and relevant.

Tailored Space Planning

Beach houses aren’t just for show—they’re built to host. Smart coastal interiors include:

• Open-concept living areas for entertaining and casual gatherings.

• Functional mudrooms or entryways to manage sandy feet and gear.

• Flexible guest spaces that feel intentional, not spare.

We design homes for the way people actually live on the coast—where form and function are inseparable.

Material Expertise for Coastal Living

Coastal homes demand performance without sacrificing aesthetics. Look for:

• Fade-resistant textiles in sun-drenched rooms.

• Performance fabrics that handle saltwater, pets, and kids with ease.

• Moisture-resistant cabinetry, tile, and wall finishes—especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

We guide clients toward selections that are as smart as they are stylish—built to endure without ever feeling utilitarian.

A Collaborative and Transparent Design Process

A great interior design firm should make the experience feel effortless. That includes:

• Clear timelines and deliverables.

• Visual planning tools like design boards and renderings.

• A seamless process from concept to install.

At Connelly & Co., we take a boutique approach—personalized, relationship-driven, and focused on long-term quality.

Ready to Design Your Coastal Home?

Whether you’re in Belleair, Clearwater, or right here in Tampa, Connelly & Co. brings unmatched attention to detail, regional insight, and timeless coastal design. We create homes that feel rooted in place, tailored to your life, and beautiful for years to come.

Let’s bring your vision to life—coastally, consciously, and confidently.