A house at the beach means different things to different people, but almost everyone agrees that the most appealing and enduring vacation homes offer a relaxed attitude, a welcoming stance, and a sense of place. Designer Ashley Gilbreath, who works from a satellite outpost in Rosemary Beach, Florida, as well as her main office in Montgomery, approaches these homes with a unique philosophy—out with the rules and in with the joys of outfitting each residence with a playful spontaneity and a mindset of comfort. She has designed a variety of delightful second homes, including condos, family compounds, and renovated waterfront cottages, with a style that is fun and personal. These four beach retreats along Florida’s Gulf Coast illustrate Ashley’s distinctive approach to creating gracious environments while proving that the most successful projects focus not only on beautiful design but also on how a family likes to live at the beach.
Home Away From Home
Rosemary Beach
For her own place in Rosemary Beach, Ashley packed a lot of punch in only a thousand square feet to accommodate her family of five plus a dog. A set of bunks in the guest room makes the most of the space, while ship-style lanterns and a rope ladder add nautical touches. The updated kitchen features marble countertops with a waterfall edge and a lap-siding hood of raw cedar. Ashley chose durable finishes and Sunbrella fabrics to accommodate the wear and tear of vacation renters.
Resources: Ashley Gilbreath Interior Design, Montgomery, 334.262.3232, ashleygilbreath.com
Rental inquiries: “The Parish Life,” a two-bedroom loft, is available through rosemarybeach.com
The Vacation Never Ends
Watercolor
When decorating a full-time residence in the resort town of WaterColor, Florida, Ashley delivered the perfect mix of coastal flair and practicality for a young, active family. With both casual entertaining and family living in mind, the designer installed a large island with seating to anchor the open kitchen. French doors fill the dining space with natural light and open onto the rear terrace for a gracious interchange between indoors and out. To accommodate weekend visitors, which is a regular occurrence at the beach, the guest suite includes two full beds and a loft space.
Old Florida Flair
Seacrest Beach
With a jewel of a perch overlooking the Gulf along Scenic 30A, this renovated 1960s cottage now radiates with a classic coastal vibe and a cozy timeworn aesthetic. The palette includes muted tones of greens, blues, and driftwood. Bookcases filled with seaside artifacts flank a tabby wall that accommodates a fireplace and television. The dining table’s prime location makes it a central gathering spot, so Ashley chose comfortable wicker slide chairs that can also be pulled into the living room after meals. A vintage wooden surfboard enlivens the open kitchen.
Back to the Beach
Emerald-green water, sugar-white sand, and warm days make up the recipe for the ultimate Florida vacation. While every expanse of coastline has its own character and charm, the 20-mile string of coastal communities along Scenic Highway 30A may boast the best the beach has to offer. From Inlet Beach to Seaside to Dune Allen, there’s always something new to discover.
Ashley’s Favorites
Morning coffee: Fonville Press, where we sit outside by the firepit on chilly mornings while the kids enjoy the playground
Fun family tradition: Going straight to the beach at sunrise with kiddos still in pajamas to find shells
Leisurely lunch: George’s in Alys Beach
Spot for sunset cocktails: Pescado or the rooftop bar at The Pearl
Dress shop: Willow and Disco in Rosemary Beach
Romantic dinner: Pescado in Rosemary Beach or Caliza by the pool in Alys Beach
Something New, Something Blue
Nanbu Noodle Bar: Meaning “Southerner” in Japanese, Nanbu is a new noodle house located on Logan Lane in The Shops of Grayton. It’s the second outpost of 30A Roux chef Nikhil Abuvala. Nanbu offers poke bowls, dumplings, ramen noodles, broths, and vegan and Gluten-free offerings. With a hip vibe, lively bar scene, and late-night hours, it’s already a popular gathering spot. nanbunoodlebar.com
Blue Mabel: If you like Cowgirl Kitchen, you’re going to love Blue Mabel Smokehouse and Provisions, located in the heart of Blue Mountain Beach. Breakfast offerings range from barbecue shrimp over a sage biscuit to cherry pistachio granola to Southern hash and burritos. Lunch and dinner selections are equally diverse and delicious. With a full bar, indoor and outdoor seating, and a drive-through window for online orders, there’s certainly something for everyone. bluemabel.com
Windows on the World
Perdido Key
Plenty of outdoor seating and endless vistas ensure this Perdido Key penthouse hosts happy gatherings year-round. Floor-to-ceiling walls of glass flood the interiors with natural light, which prompted Ashley to choose more saturated coastal colors. A beaded-glass chandelier and a pair of large contemporary botanical prints make a statement in the dining area. Ceiling-height, aqua-blue draperies with blackout backing frame the views and soften the main living space while also providing shading when needed. A series of abstract oyster paintings set in a bar niche add to the coastal theme.
