This New Coastal Decor Trend Is Controversial — But I Kind Of Dig It

Whether it’s throwback shabby-chic style or way-streamlined minimalism, interior design trends can be fun to follow — not for fashion’s sake, but because they can help you figure out what resonates with you. I’m a big proponent of crafting a space that is reflective of your personality, hobbies, and anything else that makes you happy. Lately I’ve noticed one design trend that’s really rocking the boat (but I love it anyway): shell-covered decor. 

Once reserved for beach houses and themed bathrooms, shell-encrusted designs are reemerging in a big way, thanks to the resurgence of various coastal styles (think: Nancy Meyers style, fisherman-core, and coastal grandmother). The shell trend is taking many shapes and forms — including blanketing a mantel, covering a mirror, or encrusting a trinket box — but not everyone loves it.

Shell-encrusted decor can be kitschy, but it can also be outrageously cool — especially when utilized in coastal locations and balanced with other elements that make the room feel dynamic and modern. For example, bespoke shell artist Linda Fenwick has blanketed everything from walls and ceilings to furniture and vases with oceanic treasures, often working in collaboration with an interior designer. 

Shells made a prominent appearance at this year’s Kips Bay Showhouse in Palm Beach (naturally!), where designer Caroline Gidiere gave an oversized shell mirror the star treatment in her frilly, fanciful sitting room. The massive display, which required significant reinforcement to hang, was, rightfully, the talk of the house. (“I need this in my home like, yesterday!” one commenter said on Instagram — and, honestly, same.)

The key to striking the elusive balance between wow-worthy and wacky? It all comes down to restraint. First, beware of going overboard — too “theme-y” and you’ll find yourself diving head-first into retiree territory. Start small (think: a shell mirror, shadow art, or storage box), and invest in pieces that boast quality construction and a protective finish. Finally, balance an over-the-top, shell-encrusted item with refined, streamlined pieces. 

The best part about this trend is that it boasts limitless DIY potential. Creator and decorator Clare Sullivan took a big risk when she decided to blanket her entire fireplace mantel in shells. Sullivan saw it as a way to nod to her home’s coastal locale and her love of the ocean. She even collected shells along the beach for the project herself, and incorporated a particularly stunning piece that the previous homeowners left behind. Not all of Sullivan’s fans loved the end results, but I sure did. To me, it doesn’t get more personal than something you’ve made yourself out of things you gathered from nature.