A nautical theme is perfect for a finished basement living space: It’s fun, colorful and casual, and it creates a relaxing atmosphere for entertaining family and friends. Everyone feels refreshed and tranquil by the sea. Here are some tips to create a nautical theme in your finished basement:

A Nautical Color Palette

White, khaki and navy blue are classic nautical colors. You can add a little excitement to the mix by adding in some denim blue and accents in lobster red. A soothing shade of ocean blue on the walls would provide great contrast for khaki furniture in a washable fabric. This combination would make the room feel expansive. Add pillows in red, white, and shades blue and tan to perk up the palette. Broad awning stripes, ticking stripes and checks can happily coexist when united by a color palette. Add a few fun throw pillows – shaped like shellfish, anchors or life preservers – to keep the atmosphere light and friendly.

Underscore the Theme with Details

There are many ways to go with a nautical theme, from classic looks to a fishing theme or a beachside cabana. Regardless of how you choose to decorate, accessories are the details that make a nautical theme come to life.

For example, try brass and wood base lanterns and nautically inspired gleaming wood wall art for captain’s quarters’ appeal. Add accents such as a barometer, compass, rope rigging, nautical flags or miniature wooden sailboats boats for authenticity and detail. Choose wall art such as a canvas painted seascape or metal wall art of sailing schooners to create interest on a focal wall. Gather sea shells, sand dollars and star fish in glass cylinders or nest them around pillar candles on shallow bowls scattered on table tops and counters.

Use jute or sisal area rugs in sitting areas to define the space and add texture. Fish nets hung on a wall will add more texture and dimension. Add cork buoys and fish wall art to enhance a fishing theme. Family photos of fishing trips and beach vacations can be arranged as one huge piece of wall art. Frame photos in identical or similar frames and hang them in close proximity to each other, letting corners touch and edges butt against each other. Arrange your framed photos first on the floor or a work space to come up with an arrangement that pleases you.

Try a fun beach cabana theme with bold striped fabrics, wall art of colorful fish and undersea life and a thatched umbrella. Make the wet bar part of the fun by turning it into a tiki bar. Bamboo mats and trim can be applied to the front of the bar or behind it with a brad nailer. Hang a few straw beach hats on the wall. Add a focal point with metal art in the shape of toucan birds and tropical palms and set coconut and palm-shaped lamps on the bar. Keep the vacation theme going with framed prints of island destinations on the wall and a stack of vintage suitcases in the corner.

All text copyright Shanel. Photo from Flikr - "Living Room on the Backwaters" courtesy of Arun Katiyar.