Coastal Cottage Staycation - Southern Living

Photo: Helen Norman

Coastal Cottage

Living near the Gulf in the small community of WaterColor in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, gave her the courage to decorate with shades of white, turquoise, and apple green. The smaller cottage size inspired pared-down furnishings and rooms that accommodate grown-up entertaining as well as family play space.

Photo: Helen Norman

Bringing the Outside In

A flea market chair in the living room is updated in a coral pattern—a nod to the home's beach locale.

Photo: Helen Norman

Bold Details

A striped rug in pale blue and brown adds graphic punch in the living room.

Photo: Helen Norman

Dining Room

A custom banquette made of faux-ostrich vinyl sheds spills in the dining room. "This is a mess-proof spot for kids," says Seleta.

Photo: Helen Norman

Built-In Office

Placed on a once-empty wall in the upstairs hallway, this vibrant desk area is an office/homework station.

Photo: Helen Norman

Open Kitchen

By adding a vegetable sink, Seleta created two prep areas in the efficient galley kitchen.

Photo: Helen Norman

Master Bedroom

"I felt like we needed to anchor the whimsical look of the rest of the house," says Seleta of the master bedroom. She added drama with black, in various fabrics as well as plates and frames on the wall.

Photo: Helen Norman

Bunkbeds

The cheerful upstairs bunk room is a favorite sleepover spot.

Christmas Staycation

Coastal Cottage

Bringing the Outside In

Bold Details

Dining Room

Built-In Office

Open Kitchen

Master Bedroom

Bunkbeds