7 Beach-Inspired Home Decor Items and Where to Get Them

As a relentless beach bum, I have been having a difficult time coping without my regular coastal trips. To keep my sanity, I’ve turned towards many quarantine trends — the latest being home decorating. For three months now, I’ve been working to achieve the look reminiscent of all my favourite resorts and hostels.

Through the process of scavenging for nautical items, I’ve discovered a lot of online home decor shops in the Philippines. And because I’m well pleased with most of them, I want to share them with you. If you’re craving for sand and sun, you’ll probably adore these items, too!

Also read: Budget Room Makeover Tips, According to a Pinay Architect

7 items you can buy in the Philippines

1. Rattan furniture

From baskets to mirrors, rattan fixtures are everywhere nowadays! But, no one is complaining. Aside from being a strong and durable material, rattan is also abundant in the Philippines!

Having rattan instantly elevates a tropical bedroom because it somehow brings the weathered outdoors in. Just think about all the resorts you’ve checked in to — don’t they all have rattan, too?

Tip: Not ready to invest in a good rattan piece? Check out fixtures in more affordable materials, like bamboo, pandan, and buri.

Where to get them: Several online stores sell a wide array of rattan fixtures now. Personally, I’ve been particularly drawn to the stores of Haligi, Weave and Bloom, and Baler Surf ‘n Save for natural furniture including cabinets, boxes, planters, and pouffes.

Also read: Where to Buy Ceramic Pots & Dried Flowers in Metro Manila & Beyond

2. Oceanic prints

Incorporating prints into a bedroom can be tricky, but don’t be scared. Of course, you can always go big and install fancy wallpaper in your room; but, know that even the subtlest prints will make a difference. Think oceanic prints on rugs, planters, pillowcases, or tapestries — you have so many options! As much as possible, support local artists while looking for these stunning additions to your .

Where to get them: As we’re talking about oceanic prints, know that there are so many beach-inspired decor items to choose from. As a newbie plantita, I’m particularly a fan of Lauren + Sophia Home’s swell plant cosies. I’m also loving the beautiful tropical art prints at Slow folks.

3. Marine animal accessories

What cuter way to scream “” than with marine animal accessories? Add in some personality to your space with frills that remind you of your fish friends!

Way before my redecorating project, I bought a stuffed sea turtle from Thailand. I’m not the type to enjoy stuffed animals, but this turtle has brought so much life into my room as it’s dressed in different colours — red, purple, green, yellow, and blue. I love how it still reminds me of the beach, but isn’t necessarily sticking to the conventional ocean hues. (Even if I love the sea, I enjoy other bright colours, too!)

Where to get them: When I first laid my eyes on the Ennoble whale chibis, I instantly fell in love. Interestingly enough, I was at a Baler resort when I saw them. Safe to say these are worthy of this list. I also love Beached Bums, a Batangas-based online store that sells plastic-stuffed whales and sea turtles. The plastic stuffings in these toys are actually retrieved from the sea! This means your purchases help the real marine creatures stay plastic-free.

4. Inabel blankets

If you’re an Elyu regular, you’re probably familiar with inabel. This Ilocano handwoven fabric is a resort-favourite, and you’ll see it in most accommodations in the North. It’s also durable and sustainable, and it comes in a variety of colours, designs, and weights. You can get a blanket light enough for our tropical season, or you can go for a fluffier one instead.

Where to get them: My inabel blankets are all from Ilocos, and they’ve lasted me years. Nowadays, you can easily score inabel blankets online. Some of my faves are Locano, Abel PH, and Balay ti Abel.

Also read: 7 Airbnbs in La Union for Your Next Elyu Trip

5. Bamboo sheets

Since we’re already tackling beddings, I’d like to give a special shoutout to bamboo sheets. If you’re planning to change up your sheets, I highly recommend these types as they’re super soft, cool to sleep in, and sustainable! Not to mention, they look great, too.

Where to get them: I first heard of bamboo sheets through Linen & Homes, and I’ve been obsessed since. Another favourite is Doze Days (and they get bonus points for regularly partnering with advocacies that support Filipinos in need).

6. Shell accessories

Shells are so trendy right now (we can probably blame it on cabin fever). We see them as vases, pillows, lamps — even chairs! If you miss the beach, you probably want to snag one of these, too. And while those shell-shaped corduroy pillows are adorable, don’t limit yourself to that. Check out capiz fixtures, shell chandeliers, and other local accessories — just make sure they’re all sustainably sourced!

Where to get them: Sunday Home and Rotten Mermaid Studio are some popular online stores selling pretty items. They offer a wide variety of things, from shell vases to mermaid throws! If you’re looking for luxurious coastal fixtures, though, Home Cartel is a brand you can’t miss.

7. Macramé hangings

For some reason, macramé just effortlessly screams beach chic. Several online stores in the Philippines now sell different varieties of this! You can get them as hammocks, hanging planters, pillowcases, or just stylish wall hangings.

Where to get them: While there are so many online stores selling macramé items now, Makrama stands out because of its consistent quality and intricate designs. If you prefer colourful macramés, you can also check out Simple Sentiments.

Also read: Buy Locally Made Products at MaArte Fair — Now Online Until December!

Nowadays, it’s so easy for anyone to find affordable items in online stores. But while I’m thankful for how my redecorating project has helped me cope, I constantly need to remind myself of being mindful of every purchase I make.

If you’re planning to redecorate your room too, I urge you to scout for local and sustainable items (and only if you have to!). The Philippines is unbelievably beautiful, not just for its tourist destinations, but also for its people and products! While we can’t travel freely, let’s support our artisans as much as we can. Stay safe inside, folks!