Florida living calls for interiors that feel natural in the sun, inviting in every season, and beautifully in tune with the coastal environment.
Two styles capture this spirit in distinct ways: modern coastal and Mediterranean. Both offer timeless appeal, yet they differ in tone, materials, and overall mood.
Modern coastal brings in the calm, clean elegance of a seaside retreat with soft textures, light woods, and an airy, sun-washed palette. Mediterranean, on the other hand, leans into rich materials, earth tones, and the romance of old-world architecture.
Each style has its own way of creating warmth and sophistication, and both can elevate a Florida home when applied with intention.
If you’re building, renovating, or refining your space with interior design in Broward County, understanding the differences between the two styles will help you create an environment that reflects your taste and lifestyle.
What Defines Modern Coastal?
Modern coastal interiors take inspiration from the colors and textures of the sea without becoming overly thematic.
The goal is to evoke a sense of calm, brightness, and breezy sophistication, like the feeling of walking into a luxurious beach retreat.
Key Elements
- Palette: Whites, soft neutrals, muted blues, sea glass green, and sandy tones
- Materials: Linen, cotton, bleached or natural woods, rattan, and light ceramics
- Furniture: Streamlined silhouettes with casual comfort; slipcovered sofas, clean-lined coffee tables, and open shelving
- Décor: Minimal and purposeful. Oversized artwork, glass vases, or a few sculptural seashells rather than shelves full of beach trinkets
Open layouts and an abundance of natural light are essential. Window treatments are often sheer or completely absent to highlight the view. The overall atmosphere is serene and uncluttered, making it ideal for those who value simplicity with elegance.
Modern coastal design works beautifully in Florida’s waterfront homes and newer builds. It complements open floor plans and integrates with outdoor living spaces, bringing the outdoors in without overwhelming the senses.
What Defines Mediterranean Style?
Mediterranean interiors are rich in texture, depth, and old-world charm. Inspired by homes along the coasts of Spain, Italy, and Greece, this design style blends architecture and décor in a way that feels warm, storied, and undeniably luxurious.
Key Elements
- Palette: Terracotta, olive green, mustard yellow, deep blues, and creamy neutrals
- Materials: Textured plaster walls, exposed wood beams, wrought iron, natural stone, and tile
- Furniture: Ornate or antique-style pieces with substantial weight and timeless craftsmanship
- Décor: Layered textiles, pottery, intricate tilework, and traditional artwork
Arches, columns, and rustic wood doors are common architectural features. You’ll also find patterned tiles on stair risers or inlaid into flooring. It’s a style that celebrates craftsmanship and detail, yet when done well, it never feels fussy.
Mediterranean design pairs especially well with homes that already feature classic architecture or traditional exteriors. It’s suited for those who enjoy cozy, character-rich spaces with a welcoming, timeless ambiance.
Which Style Suits Your Florida Lifestyle?
Light, Open, and Uncluttered Living
If you’re drawn to bright, open spaces with minimal visual noise, modern coastal may suit your lifestyle. This style embraces natural light, breezy layouts, and a palette that keeps the environment feeling calm and expansive.
It suits homeowners who value simplicity, brightness, and a sense of calm without sacrificing sophistication.
Warmth, Texture, and Old-World Charm
Do you enjoy rich textures, layered materials, and a bit of history in your home? Mediterranean interiors deliver on all fronts.
From rustic wood beams to handmade tiles and decorative ironwork, this style is for those who appreciate depth, craftsmanship, and timeless character.
Location and Architecture
Where your home is located also influences which style fits best. Waterfront homes often benefit from the lightness of coastal design, which mirrors the tones of sand, sea, and sky.
In contrast, Mediterranean interiors complement Spanish or Mediterranean Revival architecture frequently found in Florida’s inland communities.
How You Entertain
Modern coastal design favors open-concept layouts that integrate with outdoor spaces—perfect for casual gatherings.
Mediterranean interiors often feature more defined rooms and cozy, intimate zones, offering a sense of formality and richness well-suited for dinner parties or long family meals.
Can You Blend the Two?
Absolutely—and many beautifully designed Florida homes do. When done well, a blend of modern coastal and Mediterranean styles creates a layered, refined look that balances ease with elegance. The key is a thoughtful, restrained approach.
Start with a Dominant Style
Blending works best when one style sets the foundation. Choose either modern coastal or Mediterranean as your primary influence and let the other play a supporting role.
- Coastal base: Begin with soft white walls, wide-plank light wood floors, and minimal, clean-lined furnishings. Add Mediterranean touches through sculptural lighting, rich woods, or handcrafted ceramics.
- Mediterranean base: If your home has traditional features like terracotta tile or stucco walls, introduce coastal elements such as breezy linen drapery, woven textures, or a driftwood-inspired coffee table.
Use Materials to Bridge the Gap
Neutral textiles can soften heavier Mediterranean surfaces. Think sheer curtains over arched windows or a pale jute rug over warm tile. This creates balance without muting either style’s character.
Layer Accessories with Intention
Small details can bring cohesion. Try pairing a coastal abstract painting with a vintage iron mirror or placing sea-inspired ceramics on a rustic wood console.
Keep the Look Cohesive
The secret to successful blending? Intention. Avoid dividing the room into contrasting halves. Instead, use one style as the thread that ties everything together, so the space feels curated, not chaotic.
When balanced with care, this mix feels elevated, personal, and perfectly suited to Florida living.
The Bottom Line
Both modern coastal and Mediterranean interiors offer something special for Florida homeowners.
Modern coastal design speaks to those who love simplicity, soft light, and clean lines. It’s elegant without effort. Mediterranean style offers depth, character, and a warmth that feels both rustic and luxurious.
Neither is “better”—the right choice depends on your lifestyle, architectural surroundings, and personal preferences. In some cases, a blend of both may create the timeless, curated feel you’re looking for.
Create the Perfect Space for You with Professional Interior Design in Broward County
Whether you’re dreaming of a light-filled coastal retreat or a Mediterranean-inspired estate, Interiors by Brown brings expertise, creativity, and refinement to every project. Our team specializes in modern, luxurious designs that reflect your unique vision—whether for your personal residence or a commercial space.
Contact Interiors by Brown today to begin designing a space that’s as stylish as it is livable.