A beach house caters to the outdoors, whether it’s next to the ocean or in the suburbs. Coastal homes are all about diversity; the style includes classic Cape Cod homes, quaint beach cottages and Pacific Northwest oceanfront homes. The architecture is easy to identify, with its wood-shingle siding, white trim, porches, boardwalks, natural lighting and light, breezy colors. Inside, coastal decor includes distressed or whitewashed wood, sisal, rope and wicker materials. Beach-house decor also frequently includes themed motifs, such as sailboat, fish, surf and seashell accessories. Regardless of style preferences, coastal design embraces nature to the fullest by bringing the outdoors in.