In the world of home design, there are few styles as evocative and aspirational as those inspired by sun-soaked destinations. Among the most popular are beach houses, coastal-inspired homes, and the distinctive mid-century flair of Palm Springs. Each style embodies a unique blend of relaxation, elegance, and a deep connection to nature, yet they do so in ways that are distinctly their own. Let’s dive into the trends that define these beautiful spaces and explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) differences between them.
Beach House Bliss: Embracing the Ocean’s Energy
Beach houses are all about capturing the essence of the ocean. The design trends in these homes focus on creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the natural beauty of the shoreline to take centre stage. Think large windows that frame stunning views, open floor plans that invite the sea breeze inside, and a colour palette dominated by soft blues, sandy neutrals, and crisp whites.
Natural materials like driftwood, woven rattan, and linen fabrics are staples in beach house design, adding texture and warmth without overpowering the tranquil vibe. Modern beach house designs in Australia are also incorporating eco-friendly elements, such as reclaimed wood and sustainable building practices, making them as kind to the environment as they are to the eyes. For those seeking a touch of luxury or a more contemporary style, luxury beach house plans, modern beach house plans, and contemporary beach house plans are increasingly popular, offering a sleek, stylish take on coastal living. For those looking to build their dream beach house on the Gold Coast, finding the right building designer is key. From simple beach house designs to more elaborate 2 storey beach house designs, the options are endless.

Coastal-Inspired Homes: A Versatile Take on Seaside Living
While beach houses are often directly located by the sea, coastal-inspired homes bring the charm of the coast inland. These homes borrow elements from beach house designs but adapt them to suit a variety of locations and lifestyles. This versatility is part of what makes coastal-inspired homes so popular—they can be found in suburban neighbourhoods, urban settings, and even rural retreats.
In terms of trends, coastal-inspired homes often feature a broader range of colours beyond the typical blues and whites, incorporating coral, seafoam green, and sunny yellows. The design leans heavily on creating a light, airy atmosphere, with plenty of natural light, breezy fabrics, and décor that nods to the seaside—think shell motifs, nautical stripes, and artwork that evokes the sea.
Gold Coast residents interested in coastal house designs will find a wide array of options tailored to their needs. From simple coastal house designs to luxury 2 storey home designs specific to the Gold Coast, there’s something for everyone. At templo®, our Gold Coast building designers can help you navigate the process, ensuring your home is as stylish as it is functional. Whether you’re drawn to modern coastal house plans, simple coastal house designs, or unique coastal home plans, there’s a design to suit every taste and lifestyle.
What sets coastal-inspired homes apart is their ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements. You might find a coastal home that features classic shiplap walls paired with modern, sleek furniture, or a vintage-inspired kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances. This balance of old and new allows coastal-inspired homes to feel both timeless and current.

Palm Springs-Inspired Homes: Mid-Century Magic in the Desert
Palm Springs-inspired homes are a world apart from their coastal counterparts, bringing the glamour and bold design of mid-century modern architecture into focus. These homes are all about clean lines, bold colours, and a strong connection to the desert landscape.
Key trends in Palm Springs-inspired homes include the use of vibrant colours—think pops of orange, teal, and mustard yellow—against a backdrop of natural materials like stone, wood, and concrete. The emphasis is on creating spaces that are both stylish and functional, with a nod to the indoor-outdoor living that’s so central to desert life.
Outdoor spaces in these homes are just as important as the interiors, often featuring sleek pools, minimalist landscaping with succulents and cacti, and plenty of shaded areas for lounging. The use of large glass walls and sliding doors helps to blur the lines between inside and out, a hallmark of mid-century design. The Palm Springs facade often includes geometric patterns, breeze blocks, and pops of bright colours that make the exterior as striking as the interior.
For those on the Gold Coast looking to incorporate elements of Palm Springs style, working with skilled our building designers can help you achieve the perfect blend of desert-inspired elegance and coastal cool. Even if you’re considering a modern house design with a touch of Palm Springs flair, our draftsman on the Gold Coast can bring your vision to life.
Finding Your Style: Which One Speaks to You?
Whether you’re drawn to the relaxed elegance of a beach house, the versatile charm of a coastal-inspired home, or the bold, retro vibes of Palm Springs, each style offers something unique. The beauty of these trends lies in their ability to transport you to another place, whether that’s the soothing rhythm of the ocean waves or the sun-drenched tranquillity of the desert.
As you explore these styles, consider what aspects resonate most with your own lifestyle and environment. Whether you’re designing a new home on the Gold Coast or simply looking to refresh your existing space, there are endless possibilities to create a home that not only reflects your personal taste but also offers a daily escape to your favourite sunny destination.