Coastal style is well known throughout America and even worldwide for its celebration of the seaside, and calming vibes the signature colors, textures and other design elements can bring to any retreat. In the upper Midwest, we look for inspiration a little closer to home—along the shores of Lake Superior in North Eastern Minnesota. This North Shore Style shares some common elements with other coastal aesthetics, including a neutral and cool color palette with a focus on natural materials and elements. However, it has its own unique appeal that’s both casual, comfortable—and close to home.

Learn more about the luxurious North Shore Style and how you can curate the look in your own home.

Coastal Influence

One of the main influences of North Shore Style is the popular coastal design trend, which you can read about in our How-to-Style: Coastal Design guide. There are many iterations of coastal interior design. When you think of beach-front properties, some classic looks come to mind. There’s the nautical theme with lots of white, navy and anchors galore. Hamptons-inspired style is a classic look that focuses on elegance, with subtle hints of seaside themes. It’s clean, modern and a little luxurious. Modern coastal design has many similarities with the Hamptons aesthetic. For instance, they both are based around mostly neutral color schemes and furniture with clean and contemporary lines.

Midwestern Elements

While most coastal design styles may bring to mind tropical retreats with palm trees and pops of bright colors, the North Coast Style draws more local inspirations. For instance: color palates are not as white and bright as a typical coastal look. Gray, beige and brown fabrics with a cozy texture are more popular and welcoming in all seasons.

· Color palettes are primarily neutral with accent colors on pillows and chairs.

· Blue-gray and green shades are used instead of turquoise and teal blues.

· Main furnishings should be neutral colors. Greys continue to be popular in the Midwest, but warmer brown tones are coming back.

· Fall colors can be highlighted seasonally to celebrate the gorgeous foliage.

Lake Life in Luxury

North Shore Style isn’t your typical rustic, lake house look. It’s sophisticated. It’s elegant and refined. While a single piece or two of themed décor can enhance your design, such as a colorful lakescape that’s centered above your sofa, too many elements can make your space look kitschy and crowded. Instead you can capture the spirit of Superior through colors and textures. Some examples may include:

· Blue accent pillows on a grey sofa or sectional.

· Sheer, breezy curtains that allow natural light to be the focus of your living room.

· Wall art may highlight gorgeous lakescapes, other soft landscapes, as well as local flora and fauna.

· Home décor featuring natural textures.

· Wicker and rattan accent pieces can look lovely inside your home as well as outside.

· Live edge accent tables are natural, one-of-a-kind pieces that elevate your design.

· An area rug featuring cool accent colors OR a natural material such as jute.

· Metallic touches to bring some luxury and sophistication to your space.

· Greenery, either real or quality faux potted plants, can add a lively finishing touch to your space.

When selecting furnishings and décor for your North Shore styled home, it’s important to use a critical eye and avoid overfilling your room. This is not a maximalist style. Instead, keep a sense of luxury and spaciousness that is as open and breezy as the fresh North Shore air.