Christmas Staycation

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.

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

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

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

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

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

The cheerful upstairs bunk room is a favorite sleepover spot.