Who’s ready for warmer weather and a trip to the Gulf Coast beaches of 30A? Lots of Birmingham families, that’s who.
“We’ve been vacationing in the area for more than 15 years,” says this homeowner, a Birmingham resident who, along with her family, decided it was time to invest in a permanent getaway at Alys Beach.
They decided on The Whitby, a newly- built, mixed-use building overlooking the Alys Beach Town Square. “The architecture drew us in,” the homeowner says. “With the lively mix of shops and restaurants right downstairs and easy access to the beach and pool, this was the perfect location.”
The condominium was under construction at the time of their purchase, so the couple was able select furnishings well in advance of their move-in. It was a happy collaboration from the outset as they first worked with Birmingham designer Ansley Turncliff of ATM Design. Ansley then introduced the couple to Marisol Gullo, the owner of Not Too Shabby, a design store with shops in Miramar Beach and Inlet Beach, as well as Marisol, a design studio.
The resulting endeavor reveals textures and durable fabrics combined with a palette of subtle colors. Influenced by the sand and the sea, the designers created a contemporary coastal vibe. “Working on this house in Alys Beach was a joy,” Marisol says. “With the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room and so much beauty.
Capture the View
Defining the essence of a family beach getaway, this residence exudes an open invitation to unwind and enjoy life along the water. Stacked windows along two walls flood the living area with natural light while offering panoramic vistas of the rooftops of Alys Beach. Various shades of soothing blues combine with natural textures for a cozy living area. The subtle swirling patterns in the rug echo waves on the shore while a stepped-up tray ceiling adds volume.
Rest Easy
A modern Lucite canopy bed is positioned high enough to capture views through the bank of windows. The transparency of the bed frame works well in this relatively small space. Sheer curtains and mechanical blackout blinds control the amount of natural light. To accommodate early and late risers, the casual, open kitchen with bar seating (right) invites guests to serve themselves any time of day.
Make it Personal
Light-filled rooms and a neutral background allow the homeowners’ art to shine. A favorite painting by Kendall Boggs (who formerly lived in Birmingham and now resides in South Walton) inspires bolder shades of pinks and blues that instill the daughter’s bedroom with vibrant style.
Outdoor Living
So much of life in Alys Beach revolves around the interchange between indoors and outdoors. The corner terrace is a welcoming gathering spot for morning coffee or sunset cocktails. Owners at The Whitby also enjoy the members- only Beach Club (left) with its Gulfside infinity pool, variety of terraces, and shaded retreats.
RESOURCES: Interior Design: Ansley Turncliff, ATM Designs, 205.970.8861 ; Marisol Gullo, Not Too Shabby, 850.520.2390,
IG: @nottooshabbybymarisolgullo
Architect for The Whitby Building Hart Howerton Architects Design, San Francisco Architects for Alys Beach Town: Marieanne Khoury and Erik Vogt , Khoury & Vogt Architects, IG: @khouryvogt
