Shore House Kitchen Design: Coastal Style for Monmouth County Homes
There's something magical about shore house living—the sound of waves, salt air breezes, endless summer days. Your kitchen should capture that coastal magic while standing up to the unique challenges of oceanfront properties.
After 50+ years designing and remodeling kitchens across Monmouth and Ocean Counties—from Manasquan to Monmouth Beach, Sea Girt to Lavallette—we've mastered the art of coastal kitchen design that's both beautiful and built to last.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to create the perfect shore house kitchen: color palettes and materials, layout considerations and design elements, practical solutions for salt air and humidity, and insider tips for achieving that effortless coastal aesthetic.
Whether you're renovating a beachfront estate or updating a cozy bay house, you'll discover how to design a kitchen that feels like a permanent vacation.
The Coastal Kitchen Aesthetic
Light, Bright, and Airy
Coastal kitchens reject darkness and formality. These spaces embrace natural light, open layouts, and color palettes inspired by sand, sky, and sea.
Core Coastal Design Principles:
- Maximize Natural Light: Large windows, minimal window treatments, reflective surfaces
- Light Color Palettes: Whites, soft blues, seafoam greens, sandy neutrals
- Natural Materials: Weathered wood, natural stone, woven textures, rattan
- Casual Elegance: Sophisticated but not stuffy; comfortable yet refined
- Indoor-Outdoor Connection: Kitchens that open to patios, decks, or beach access
Not Themed, But Inspired:
The best coastal kitchens evoke the beach without literal seashell tiles or anchor hardware. Think subtle inspiration rather than overt theming:
✓ Good: Soft blue cabinet island reminiscent of sky or sea
✗ Avoid: Cabinets painted with beach scenes
✓ Good: Natural rattan pendant lights over island
✗ Avoid: Ship wheel chandelier
✓ Good: White shaker cabinets with brushed nickel hardware
✗ Avoid: Cabinets shaped like lighthouse
Coastal design should feel fresh and timeless—not like a nautical gift shop.
Color Palettes for Coastal Kitchens
Classic White: The Foundation
White remains the most popular coastal kitchen color—and for good reason:
Why White Works:
- Reflects natural light (brightens even small kitchens)
- Makes spaces feel larger and more open
- Provides neutral backdrop for coastal decor
- Timeless (won't feel dated in 10 years)
- Versatile (works with any accent color)
White Cabinet Options:
- Pure White: Crisp, clean, modern (Benjamin Moore Simply White, Sherwin Williams Pure White)
- Soft White: Warmer undertone (Benjamin Moore White Dove, Sherwin Williams Alabaster)
- Off-White/Cream: Subtle warmth (Benjamin Moore Cloud White, Sherwin Williams Creamy)
Pair white cabinets with white or light gray walls, natural wood accents, and coastal-inspired hardware for timeless appeal.
Soft Blues and Greens
For homeowners wanting more color, soft blues and greens bring coastal character without overwhelming:
Island Accent Colors:
- Soft Blue: Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue, Sherwin Williams Sea Salt
- Seafoam Green: Benjamin Moore Tranquility, Sherwin Williams Rainwashed
- Aqua: Benjamin Moore Summer Shower, Sherwin Williams Spa
Best Practice: White or light gray perimeter cabinets + colored island (adds interest without dominating space)
Natural Wood Tones
Weathered, light wood tones add warmth and texture to coastal kitchens:
- Whitewashed Wood: Oak or pine with white stain (rustic coastal vibe)
- Light Natural Wood: Maple, birch, ash (Scandinavian coastal aesthetic)
- Driftwood Gray: Wood stained gray (modern coastal elegance)
Use wood for islands, open shelving, or ceiling beams—not full-kitchen cabinetry (can feel heavy).
Neutral Grays
Light gray serves as sophisticated alternative to white:
- Warm Gray: Greige tones (Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter, Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray)
- Cool Gray: Subtle blue undertone (Benjamin Moore Gray Owl, Sherwin Williams Repose Gray)
- Charcoal Island: Darker gray island with white perimeter (modern coastal contrast)
Grays hide wear better than pure white while maintaining light, airy feel.
Materials That Withstand Coastal Environments
Salt Air Resistance
Coastal properties face unique material challenges. Salt air accelerates corrosion, humidity causes swelling, and sand creates wear.
Hardware (Hinges, Pulls, Knobs, Faucets):
- ✓ Use: Stainless steel (marine-grade 316 preferred)
- ✓ Use: Solid brass with protective coating
- ✗ Avoid: Steel with chrome plating (plating fails, steel rusts)
- ✗ Avoid: Painted steel hardware
Cabinet Finishes:
- ✓ Use: Marine-grade polyurethane (multiple coats)
- ✓ Use: Catalyzed conversion varnish (enhanced moisture resistance)
- ✓ Use: High-quality paint with primer and topcoat
- ✗ Avoid: Single-coat finishes
- ✗ Avoid: Unsealed or oil-only finishes
Appliances:
- ✓ Use: Stainless steel exteriors (resist corrosion)
- ✓ Use: Panel-ready models with custom wood panels
- ✗ Avoid: Painted appliances (salt air degrades paint)
- ✗ Avoid: Exposed steel trim
Countertop Selection
Best Coastal Countertop Materials:
Quartz (Most Popular):
- Non-porous (won't absorb moisture or stains)
- Low maintenance (no sealing required)
- Consistent patterns (easier to match)
- Whites, grays, and marble-look options
- Cost: $80-$150 per square foot installed
Quartzite (Natural Alternative):
- Natural stone with quartz hardness
- Beautiful marble-like veining
- Heat and scratch resistant
- Requires sealing (but less porous than marble)
- Cost: $100-$200 per square foot installed
Marble (Luxury, High-Maintenance):
- Classic coastal elegance (Carrara, Calacatta)
- Porous (stains from wine, lemon juice, tomato sauce)
- Requires regular sealing and careful maintenance
- Best for low-use areas or homeowners committed to upkeep
- Cost: $100-$250 per square foot installed
Granite (Durable, Budget-Friendly):
- Natural stone with proven track record
- More stain-resistant than marble
- Requires periodic sealing
- Endless pattern options
- Cost: $60-$120 per square foot installed
Recommendation: Quartz for worry-free performance; quartzite or marble for natural stone beauty if willing to maintain.
Flooring Options
Porcelain or Ceramic Tile (Best Overall):
- Completely waterproof (wet feet, spills, humidity)
- Sand-resistant (won't scratch like wood)
- Easy to clean (sweep and mop)
- Available in wood-look and stone-look patterns
- Cool underfoot (bonus in summer)
- Cost: $8-$20 per square foot installed
Luxury Vinyl Plank (Budget-Friendly Waterproof):
- Waterproof (suitable for coastal humidity)
- Realistic wood appearance
- Softer underfoot than tile
- Easy DIY installation
- Cost: $4-$10 per square foot installed
Sealed Concrete (Modern Coastal):
- Industrial-chic aesthetic
- Extremely durable
- Must be properly sealed (moisture barrier)
- Cool underfoot
- Cost: $8-$15 per square foot polished and sealed
Avoid:
- Hardwood (warps with moisture and humidity)
- Laminate (swells if water penetrates seams)
- Carpet or area rugs (trap sand, moisture)
Layout and Design Elements
Maximizing Ocean Views
If your shore house kitchen has water views, orient the layout to showcase them:
Kitchen Sink Facing Windows:
- Position sink under window with ocean/bay view
- Enjoy the view while doing dishes and prep work
- Natural light floods primary work area
Island Oriented Toward Views:
- Island seating faces windows (guests enjoy view while you cook)
- Cooktop on island lets you face room and view while cooking
- Open shelving on window wall (doesn't block sightlines)
Minimal Window Treatments:
- Sheer curtains or no curtains (maximize light and view)
- Plantation shutters (adjustable for privacy without blocking view)
- Avoid heavy drapes, valances, or anything obstructing windows
Indoor-Outdoor Connection
Coastal living blurs the line between inside and outside:
Folding or Sliding Glass Doors:
- Open kitchen to deck, patio, or outdoor dining area
- Creates seamless transition for entertaining
- Expands usable space during parties
Pass-Through Windows:
- Window from kitchen to outdoor bar or grill area
- Pass drinks and food without going outside
- Classic coastal entertaining feature
Coordinated Materials:
- Extend interior flooring to covered outdoor space
- Matching or complementary outdoor furniture visible from kitchen
- Outdoor kitchen or grill station as extension of indoor kitchen
Outdoor Sight Lines:
- Design kitchen so you see outdoor entertaining area while cooking
- Plan island or sink placement with views to patio/deck
- Large windows or glass doors maximize visual connection
Open Shelving
Open shelving feels perfectly coastal—casual, airy, and displaying beach finds:
Where to Use Open Shelves:
- Flanking range or cooktop (display oils, spices, coastal ceramics)
- In place of upper cabinets near windows (maintains light and view)
- Wet bar or coffee station (showcase glassware, mugs)
- End of cabinet run (transition to dining area)
What to Display:
- White dishes and serving platters
- Coastal ceramics and pottery
- Glassware (clear glass, sea glass colors)
- Woven baskets for corralling items
- Cookbooks with coastal themes
Best Practices:
- Limit open shelving to 20-30% of storage (balance with closed cabinets)
- Use on walls you'll keep tidy (not where you dump daily clutter)
- Choose floating shelves or wood brackets (clean, simple)
- Stick to coordinated color palette (whites, blues, natural wood)
Lighting for Coastal Kitchens
Natural Light First
Maximize daylight with strategic design:
- Large Windows: As many as structurally possible
- Skylights: If kitchen doesn't have exterior walls
- Glass Doors: French doors, sliders, folding doors to outdoor spaces
- Minimal Treatments: Sheer curtains or bare windows
Statement Pendant Lights
Over-island pendants set coastal tone:
Coastal Pendant Styles:
- Woven Rattan: Natural texture, casual vibe
- Clear Glass Globes: Classic, let light shine, nautical feel
- Rope-Wrapped Fixtures: Subtle nautical nod without being themed
- Driftwood or Weathered Wood: Organic, beachy
- Oversized Lanterns: Casual elegance, traditional coastal
Sizing: For standard 8-foot island, use 2-3 pendants (12-18" diameter each) spaced evenly.
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Essential for task lighting and ambiance:
- LED Strip Lights: Energy-efficient, even illumination, dimmable
- Puck Lights: Focused task lighting for prep areas
- Dimmable: Set bright for cooking, low for evening ambiance
Recessed Lighting
Ambient illumination without cluttering ceiling:
- LED Recessed Cans: Energy-efficient, long-lasting
- Dimmable Controls: Adjust for time of day and mood
- Strategically Placed: Light work areas (sink, stove, counters)
Avoid: Outdated track lighting, fluorescent tubes, overly industrial fixtures (clash with coastal aesthetic)
Coastal Kitchen Details and Finishes
Backsplash Ideas
Classic White Subway Tile:
- Timeless, bright, versatile
- Install in traditional running bond or herringbone pattern
- Pairs with any cabinet color
- Budget-friendly ($8-$15 per square foot installed)
Sea Glass-Inspired Tile:
- Glossy glass tile in soft blues, greens, seafoam
- Reflects light beautifully
- Subtle color without overwhelming
- Cost: $15-$35 per square foot installed
Natural Stone:
- Marble, travertine, limestone
- Organic texture and variation
- Pairs with both traditional and modern coastal styles
- Cost: $20-$50 per square foot installed
Shiplap or Beadboard:
- Painted white for casual cottage feel
- Adds texture and dimension
- Best for farmhouse or cottage coastal styles
- Cost: $10-$20 per square foot installed
Hardware and Fixtures
Cabinet Hardware:
- Brushed nickel (classic coastal choice)
- Polished chrome (clean, modern)
- Brass (unlacquered brass patinas beautifully over time)
- Avoid oil-rubbed bronze (too dark/heavy for coastal)
Faucets:
- Bridge-style faucet (traditional coastal charm)
- Modern pull-down (sleek, functional)
- Pot filler at range (convenience for pasta, seafood boils)
- Finishes: polished chrome, brushed nickel, unlacquered brass
Window Treatments
Best Options:
- Sheer white curtains (soften windows, maintain light and view)
- Plantation shutters (adjustable slats control privacy and light)
- Woven wood shades (natural texture, filters light)
- Nothing (if privacy not a concern, skip treatments entirely)
Avoid:
- Heavy drapes or curtains (block light and view)
- Valances or swags (dated, fussy)
- Dark colors (clash with light coastal palette)
Ventilation and Humidity Control
Essential in Coastal Kitchens
Salt air and coastal humidity require robust ventilation:
Range Hood Requirements:
- High CFM Rating: 400-600 CFM minimum (more for large ranges)
- Ducted to Exterior: Vented outside, not recirculating
- Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant construction
- Quiet Operation: Quality motors reduce noise
Whole-House or Zone Dehumidification:
- Maintains optimal indoor humidity (40-50%)
- Protects cabinets, wood, and materials from moisture damage
- Essential for oceanfront properties
- Invest: $2,000-$5,000 for quality system
Air Circulation:
- Ceiling fans (if ceiling height allows)
- Open windows during mild weather (cross-ventilation)
- Keep air moving to prevent moisture buildup
Creating Your Coastal Kitchen
At Custom Kitchens by Lopez, we've designed hundreds of shore house kitchens across Monmouth and Ocean Counties. We understand the unique balance between beach house beauty and coastal durability.
What We Bring to Your Coastal Kitchen:
✓ 50+ years coastal experience (Manasquan to Monmouth Beach)
✓ Material expertise (salt air-resistant finishes, marine-grade hardware)
✓ Custom cabinetry (any color, any style, built to your specifications)
✓ Design guidance (balancing aesthetics with oceanfront practicality)
✓ Licensed General Contractor #13VH04175700 (complete project management)
Schedule Your Free Design Consultation
Call us today: 732.984.1043
Related Resources
Shore Town Service Areas:
- Kitchen Remodeling Monmouth Beach
- Kitchen Remodeling Sea Bright
- Kitchen Remodeling Manasquan
- Kitchen Remodeling Spring Lake
Custom Kitchens by Lopez | NJ License #13VH04175700 | 50+ Years Family Owned | 5.0★ Google Rating
Designing beautiful, durable coastal kitchens for New Jersey shore houses since 1974