There’s something about water, in any form, that has a profound effect on our psyche. If you live near – or regularly visit – the ocean, a lake, a river, a stream, you know this is true. I live near enough to walk to a lake. Although in actuality it is a stream dammed decades ago, walking down and seeing the expanse of water before me, opens up my spirit; gives life more “room.” It’s a bit difficult to articulate, but if you know it too, you understand.

When we talk about “nautical,” the normal association is more with the sea…but not exclusively. Nautical, having to do with ships, seamen and navigation can also happen on great lakes around the world as well as great rivers. But usually we do tend to link it more closely with the ocean. It reminds us of salty smell, fish, shells, seagulls, sand, nets, light houses, driftwood, breeze and more.

Nautical decor, then, may answer some deep yearning and love for the sea. Maybe it’s the calling of childhood memories. What we love, we love to have in our vicinity, if not for real, in symbols that represent that reality and remind us of the sights, sounds, scents, taste and touch. Perhaps for you it would be enough to have some nautical decor art for the walls. Or you might check out some of the nautical decor links on our Nautical Home Decor page.