10 Essential Native Plants for Your Alabama Garden

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a key local resource for learning about and seeing many native plants in real landscapes. The Gardens span 67 acres and feature more than 25 distinct garden areas, including the Kaul Wildflower Garden, which focuses heavily on Alabama native species and natural plant communities. Visiting the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is one of the best ways to see how these plants look at maturity and how they can be combined effectively in home landscapes.


The Sun-Lovers (Full Sun)

Wavyleaf Purple Coneflower

plants

(Echinacea simulata) Excellent for attracting pollinators; long summer bloom.

Largeflower Tickseed

plants

(Coreopsis grandiflora) Offers bright yellow flowers and is highly drought-tolerant once established.

Southern Sugar Maple

plants in an Alabama forest

(Acer floridanum) A heat-tolerant native tree providing excellent fall color.

Pussytoes

plants

(Antennaria plantaginifolia) For sunny, dry areas, use Pussytoes as a low-growing native groundcover.


The Transitional Gems (Partial Sun/Shade)

Oakleaf Hydrangea

 Alabama’s iconic native plants

(Hydrangea quercifolia) Alabama’s iconic native shrub that thrives in morning sun and afternoon shade.

Native Yellow Honeysuckle

Yellow Honeysuckle plants climbing a wooden garden trellis

(Lonicera flava) Fragrant flowers specifically suited to attract hummingbirds.

Virginia Sweetspire

plants

(Itea virginica) Highly adaptable to moist soils with beautiful spring flowers and fall foliage.


The Woodland Wonders (Shade to Dappled Shade)

Green and Gold

plants

(Chrysogonum virginianum): A reliable groundcover for woodland gardens.

Cherokee Sedge

Cherokee Sedge plants acting as a lush green garden border

(Carex cherokeensis) An evergreen sedge ideal for replacing lawn under trees or in shady spots.

Moss Phlox

Creeping Phlox subulata plants blooming over garden rocks

(Phlox subulata) provides early spring color but prefers light shade in hotter climates.

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The Finishing Touches That Elevate a Kitchen or Bath

Elegant free-standing bathtub with gold-finish faucet available at GLS Supply Kitchen & Bath Showroom in Birmingham, AL.

When designing a kitchen or bath, it’s natural to begin with the larger elements—cabinetry, countertops, tile, and overall layout. These foundational decisions set the stage, establishing both the function and aesthetic of the space. But it’s often the finishing details that bring everything together in a way that feels complete.

Plumbing fixtures, in particular, have a quiet but powerful influence. The right selections can elevate a room beyond its basic function, adding refinement, intention, and a sense of ease that’s felt in everyday use. For many Birmingham homeowners, these details are what ultimately define how a space lives and feels long after a project is finished.

Where Form Meets Function

A well-designed space should be as livable as it is beautiful. In the kitchen, that often begins at the sink. Faucets with thoughtful design—whether in their reach, height, or spray functionality—can make daily tasks feel more seamless. Paired with a sink that complements both the scale of the space and the needs of the homeowner, the result is a workspace that supports everything from quick meals to full gatherings.

In the bath, the experience becomes more personal. A freestanding tub can serve as both a visual anchor and a place of retreat, while a carefully selected shower system can transform a routine into something more restorative. These elements may seem secondary at first glance, but they often become the most appreciated features over time.

The Power of Cohesion

One of the defining characteristics of a well-executed space is a sense of cohesion. Finishes, in particular, play a key role in creating that continuity. Whether a homeowner is drawn to the warmth of brushed brass, the softness of matte black, or the timeless appeal of polished nickel, carrying that finish thoughtfully throughout the space helps establish a unified look. It creates a rhythm that feels intentional without being overstated.

Equally important is scale. Fixtures should feel proportionate to their surroundings—substantial enough to complement the space, yet balanced enough not to overwhelm it. When these elements are aligned, the overall design feels more considered and complete.

The Details You Notice Every Day

Unlike many design elements that are purely visual, plumbing fixtures are experienced through daily use. The feel of a handle, the ease of a spray function, the depth and usability of a sink—these are the details that quietly shape everyday routines. Over time, quality becomes evident not only in durability, but in the way a space continues to function effortlessly. These small, repeated interactions are what turn a well-designed room into one that truly supports the rhythm of daily life.

A More Informed Approach at GLS Supply

With so many options available, making final selections can feel overwhelming. While online browsing offers convenience, it often falls short in conveying the true look and feel of a fixture. Seeing kitchen and bath fixtures in person at a local showroom like GLS Supply allows for a better understanding of finish, scale, and functionality. It also creates an opportunity to compare options side by side and consider how each element will work within the larger design. Thoughtful guidance during this stage can help avoid missteps and lead to choices that feel both practical and enduring.

Bringing It All Together

A kitchen or bath rarely stands out because of a single feature. Instead, it’s the layering of thoughtful details that creates a space that feels complete. The finishing touches—while subtle—are what bring warmth, function, and personality into focus. They are the elements that turn a well-designed room into one that feels intuitive, comfortable, and lasting.


For those in the Birmingham area seeking to thoughtfully complete their spaces, the GLS Supply + Kitchen & Bath Showroom offers the opportunity to explore these details up close—where form, function, and expert guidance come together to help bring each vision to life.

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The Year You Finally Organize Your Home

There is a moment, often subtle, when a home no longer feels quite finished.

Everything may be beautiful. The furnishings are in place. The palette is cohesive. And yet, behind closed doors, there are spaces that remain unresolved. A closet that works, but not effortlessly. A guest room that holds more than it should. A pantry that began with intention, then slowly lost its rhythm.

For many homeowners, organization lives in fragments. A project completed here. A system attempted there. Progress made but rarely sustained across the whole home.

The result is not disorder. It is something quieter. A lingering sense that things could function better, feel lighter and flow more naturally than they do.

And often, the reason is simple.

The work was never meant to happen all at once.

Why Most Homes Remain in Progress

Traditional approaches to organization tend to follow one of two paths. Either everything is tackled at once, which quickly becomes overwhelming, or it is addressed in pieces, with long pauses in between.

Life, of course, continues moving.

Schedules fill. Priorities shift. Decisions are postponed. What begins with clarity often fades into good intentions. Not from lack of effort, but from lack of continuity.

Because a truly organized home is not created through urgency. It is created through thoughtful completion.

A More Refined Approach to Transformation

The most functional homes are not rushed. They are considered.

Each space is approached with intention. Fully understood. Fully designed. Fully brought to life before moving on to the next. Over time, this creates something far more powerful than a single transformation.

It creates cohesion.

Imagine a home where every closet, every drawer and every storage space has been given the same level of care. Where nothing feels temporary or overlooked. Where each room supports the next, creating a quiet sense of order that carries throughout the entire home.

This is not about doing more. It is about doing it completely.

One Space at a Time, Fully Realized

When organization is approached in this way, something shifts.

The process becomes manageable. Decisions feel clearer. Momentum builds naturally. Instead of facing an overwhelming whole, you focus on one space at a time, knowing it will be finished, not just improved.

A primary closet that simplifies your mornings.
A kitchen that supports your daily rhythm.
A guest space that feels welcoming and intentional.

Each completed space becomes a foundation for the next.

And over time, the home begins to feel different.

Not just organized, but aligned.

The Power of a Finished Home

There is a distinct difference between a home that is styled and a home that is complete.

In a completed home, nothing asks for your attention unnecessarily. You are not managing clutter or revisiting decisions. Your environment supports you quietly, consistently, without effort.

Mornings become easier. Evenings feel more relaxed. The small frictions that once interrupted your day begin to disappear.

It is not dramatic. But it is transformative.

A Year That Changes Everything

For those who want to approach their home with this level of intention, there is a more structured path forward.

Orbit 365 is designed around a simple but powerful idea: one space each month, thoughtfully transformed over the course of a year. The result is not a series of projects, but a fully realized home where every space has been considered, completed and brought into alignment.

There is no rush. No overwhelm. Just steady, meaningful progress that builds into something lasting.

Completion as a New Standard of Living

Luxury is often defined by what we see. Beautiful materials. Thoughtful design. Elevated finishes.

But true luxury reveals itself in how a home functions.

In the ease of moving through your day. In the absence of friction. In the quiet confidence that everything has its place and purpose.

When every space has been completed with intention, your home no longer feels like a collection of ongoing projects.

It feels finished.


Discover what it means to live in a home that feels fully realized. Orbit 365 is a 12 month, 12 spaces organizing program that results in a total home transformation. Learn more at www.spacecadetsorg.com/orbit365

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Lake House Interiors Rooted in Casual Elegance

Architect Heath Clement’s pavilion-style layout creates a “see-through” effect that invites the landscape in. The interior could not compete with the view, which every major room has a direct, unobstructed view of.

A Departure from the “Usual Suspects”

For Sally and Slade Blackwell, building at Lake Martin was a homecoming with a twist. The couple are no strangers to these waters, having spent a decade renting a historic Russell Lands cabin nearby. When the opportunity arose to purchase the very lot they had grown to love in the new Willows development, they jumped at the chance to trade their rental keys for a permanent lake house.

But while their history was rooted in the rustic charm of a cabin, their vision for the future was decidedly different. To bring it to life, they called on Meredith Roberts of Gray Blake Interiors. “Sally loves design and is a very involved client,” says Meredith. “She 1,000 percent did not want anything too lakey.”

“I call the Blackwells closet modernists, and I am a bit as well. For this project, we gravitated towards a cleaner aesthetic and a departure from the usual suspects.”

– The home’s architect, Heath Clement

Architectural details and materials distinguish the Blackwells’ home from what might be expected at the lake. While tall, the ceilings are not vaulted. All wood detailing, including beams, are painted white, and the floors are a pale white oak throughout.

Utilitarian elegance defines the kitchen, where professional-grade AllSouth appliances meet high-design finishes. Wrapped in Benjamin Moore’s White Dove, the soaring tongue-and-groove walls highlight the drama of the marble surfaces and cabinets.

Defining Casual Elegance

A tucked-away bar sends out stylish signals with glass shelves, black soapstone countertops, and brass fixtures and hardware. Sally specified a fountain drink station for the family’s favorite soda.
A custom-built alcove filled with split firewood offers a raw outdoor spirit as a counterpoint to the living room’s soft linens. Layering White Dove against these earthy elements ensures the home feels personal, intentional, and perfectly balanced.

A subtle shade of Purbeck Stone (Farrow & Ball) gives dimension to the kitchen, bar, and bathroom cabinets. Marble countertops add visual texture, contrasting the smooth, custom plaster hood. “Throughout the home, I dialed into the idea of casual elegance with plush upholstery and that mix of old and new,” says Meredith.

Curated Details and Custom Living Casual Elegance

The floor plan centers on a massive, open-concept room that flows from the kitchen to the lounge, allowing the “cleaner aesthetic” to breathe.

“For the lighting, we chose more modern pieces. For example, in the dining room, we grouped three fixtures together for a dose of glamour over the antique oak table.” Custom slipcovered benches and host chairs surround the table. “We added velvet trim along the back of the chairs and the bottoms of the benches for a tactile bit of luxury.”

“We knew Slade was going moose hunting, so we saved the area above the fireplace for a trophy, but I never realized it would look so cool and be so perfect! It’s a great conversation piece,” says Sally.

The Rhapsody-in-White Private Suites

Meredith explains that the lack of accessories is intentional. “The Blackwells wanted a clean shell that allows the architecture to tell the story with a sense of welcome escape from the everyday back home.”

The curated balance of a custom Wesley Allen bed, faded Oushak rug, and a Visual Comfort sunburst fixture proves that ‘casual elegance’ is found in the friction between understated linens and high-design shine.
Bleached wood tables anchor the bedside and introduce coastal texture to the suite. The room is grounded by this organic warmth.

We were not bringing elements of the outdoors in as is typical in a lake house. Sally wanted something opposite with the interiors—simple and neutral with a sophisticated edge.

– Meredith Roberts

Heath designed a clever shower door treatment in the primary bath — at one end is a sliding shower door and at the other is the separate water closet hidden behind the glass wall.
The college-aged daughter’s room is ready to host a bevy of Auburn girlfriends with a king bed and two custom bunks that include a queen size on the bottom and twin on top. Meredith added notes of pink with the Anthropologie and Laura Park accent pillows and Oushak rug.

Seamless Horizons

Outside, Heath introduced a negative-edge swimming pool for a visual effect of water with no boundaries. He also ensured that the view of the lake is continuous. “From inside the house, you don’t see outdoor furniture blocking your sightline,” says the architect. “We even placed the boat dock off to the side a bit for that reason. It’s still convenient but doesn’t interfere with the main attraction—those views.”

The covered porch overlooking the negative edge pool and the lake beyond is filled with an array of Summer Classics seating and lounging options, all upholstered in white performance fabric.

Want a Closer Look at the “Bones” of This Build?

See how the house itself was designed to breathe with the landscape and achieve the perfect balance of natural light on the lake.


Resources

Architecture: B. Heath Clement, Clement Architecture & Design General Contractor: Marbury McCullough, TCC Contractors Interior Design: Meredith Roberts, Gray Blake Interiors Landscape Design: Earthworks Landscape Supply Main Wall Color: White Dove, Benjamin Moore Hardwood Flooring: Pale White Oak (Custom) Lighting: Lighting & Lamp Kitchen Range: AllSouth Appliance Group Inc. Hardware: Brandino Brass Bar Cabinet Color: Worsted, Farrow & Ball Bar Faucet: Fixtures & Finishes Bunk Room Chairs: Rosegate Design Primary Bath Fixtures: Fixtures & Finishes Countertops: Triton Stone Group, fabricated by Surface One Rugs: Eighteenth Street Orientals

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8 Unspoken Rules for a Smooth Stay at the Beach House

Sharing a beach house requires a truly special relationship. This is especially true for the tight bond between identical twins William and David Siegel and their families. As co-owners of Twin Construction, the brothers used their professional experience to design a multi-family vacation home that balances style and function.

To create the perfect beach house layout, they collaborated with designer Laurie Fulkerson of Twin Interiors. Together they managed the needs of 11 family members, including William and Kim Siegel and their four children along with David and Marianne Siegel and their three kids. This shared love for beach house life has made their family bond even stronger. David says they are fully aware of what a blessing it is to have this shared space. Here are their 8 ideas for successful house sharing:

1. Prioritize Two Owner’s Bedrooms

Two owner’s bedrooms with adjacent baths are a must. Consider larger closets to store beach clothing and other vacation items.

Blue-themed owner's suite bathroom in a beach house with a double vanity and coastal decor for a private couple's retreat.
Designer Laurie Fulkerson customized the personal suites by using each couple’s favorite color to create a sense of belonging. This space features Kim and William Siegel’s signature blue to distinguish it from David and Marianne’s green suite.The layout also includes larger closets to allow for each owner to have a stackable washer/dryer unit. // Photography by Dustin Adams.
Beach house main suite four poster bed.
Symmetry and soft textures take center stage in this suite. The elegant four-poster bed and layered neutral linens offer a peaceful sanctuary for homeowner’s to recharge, proving that a house full of people can still have quiet corners.

2. Create a Private Guest Space

Create an additional guest suite or space for parents and friends. Visitors need their own private area to retreat.

Compact guest bathroom in a beach house with a white pedestal sink and clean, minimalist design for visitor privacy.
The clean and compact design ensures guests can have their own space for privacy. It allows guests to maintain their own schedule and routines in a quiet, secluded corner of the home.

3. Separate the Kids’ Hangout

Create a kids’ hangout space separate from the adults. The Siegels’ children share bedrooms and a TV lounge on the third floor.

Beach house kids' bedroom featuring twin beds and bright green accents designed for multi-family vacation stays.
Bright green accents and coastal-inspired art bring a youthful energy to this kid’s room.” Twin beds and durable King Cotton finishes ensure this space is as practical as it is charming for the younger generation. This room has access to an upstairs den with TV and game area.

4. Invest in Multi-Generational Amenities

Don’t forget the elevator. Enjoyed for convenience now, an elevator will also serve the needs of aging, multi-generational families later.

Modern beach house entryway with stairs and elevator access for multi-generational living.
This open staircase is the primary route for kids and younger guests to move between floors. A nearby elevator prevents congestion by handling the heavy lifting of beach life. It moves overflowing grocery bags, bulky coolers, and large suitcases straight to the upper floors.

5. Expand Your Outdoor Living

Include outdoor amenities. An outdoor fireplace provides a cozy gathering spot in the winter, and an outdoor shower keeps sandy feet clean.

Expansive porch of a beach house with a brick fireplace and comfortable lounge seating for outdoor living.
Featuring a cozy brick fireplace for chilly nights and plenty of plush seating, this porch serves as an outdoor living room. “The fabric choice was critical,” says Laurie. “The Siegels wanted a place where they would be comfortable and not have to worry about wear and tear. The use of performance fabrics and outdoor materials gives the family a piece of mind.”

6. Plan for Heavy-Duty Storage

Be mindful about storage. The Siegels hung racks in their garage for bikes, beach equipment, and paddleboards. They also installed a second refrigerator and ice maker. They advise adding temperature and humidity control to storage spaces. It’s essential for preventing rust.

Beach house kitchen with seafoam cabinets and marble island designed for large groups.
In a kitchen that serves 11, storage is the ultimate luxury. Beyond the sprawling marble-topped island, seafoam cabinetry hides clever organizational zones designed to keep a rotating cast of guests fed. The open layout ensures that even when the house is full, everything from beach snacks to Sunday dinner has a designated home.

7. Solve the Parking Puzzle

Who’s driving? Street parking can be a challenge in most beach neighborhoods.

Aerial view of a U-shaped beach house lot showing the pool area and ample off-street parking for multiple vehicles.
The Siegel home features a smart U-shaped lot design that maximizes off-street parking for a fleet of vehicles. This layout ensures there is plenty of room for everyone to arrive and depart without the stress of searching for a place to park.

8. Coordinate the Calendar

Whose weekend is it? A calendar is key for planning. The Siegels share common holidays and allot times for individual families as requested.

Light-filled beach house entryway  designed for smooth guest traffic flow.
By pairing curated coastal accessories with an open, sun-drenched layout, the Siegels created a hub able to handle the high-traffic flow of a multi-family vacation without losing its sense of calm.

Want to See More?

Resources

Home design and build: Twin Construction; Interior design and furnishings: Laurie Fulkerson, Twin Interiors; Dining room wallpaper: Thibaut, through Twin Interiors; Countertops: Surface One Tile: Triton Stone Group; Rug in den: Billy Brown Flooring

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Triton Stone Group Celebrates 20 Years of Shaping Spaces and Serving Communities

 Photo by Jean Allsopp // Explore this home here.

The Philosophy

At its core, Triton Stone is driven by a simple but powerful belief: great spaces bring people together. What began as a natural stone company has grown into something far more expansive—a team on a mission to help create beautiful, functional gathering spaces across America. Guided by a commitment to resilience, creativity, teamwork, customer-centric thinking, and a winning spirit, Triton Stone continues to redefine what it means to be a leader in the stone and surface industry.

A Foundation of Artistry and Service

The company’s mission is rooted in inspiration and service. Triton Stone strives to spark creativity in every customer while delivering exceptional products and an unparalleled customer experience. This balance of artistry and service has been foundational to the brand since day one and remains a defining characteristic today. Triton is not simply focused on selling stone; it is focused on helping customers bring their visions to life, regardless of style, scale, or stage of a project.

Beyond the Slab

What truly sets Triton apart from competitors is the breadth of its offerings and the mindset behind them. While the company began with a focus on natural stone, it has evolved into a comprehensive resource for the industry. Today, Triton’s portfolio includes slabs, sinks, tile, tools, and ancillary products designed to support every phase of the design and build process. This evolution reflects Triton’s understanding that customers don’t want piecemeal solutions—they want a trusted partner who can meet their needs holistically.

The Culture

Internally, Triton’s culture reflects its family-owned roots. As a family-owned, women-run business, the company places immense value on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. Work-life balance, professional development, and personal growth are priorities, not perks. Triton recognizes that its people are its greatest asset, and by investing in their well-being and growth, the company empowers each team member to reach their full potential.

Resilience Through the Decades

Since its founding in 2006, Triton Stone has navigated industry shifts, economic challenges, the COVID-19 pandemic, and strategic acquisitions—all while staying true to its values. Each challenge has strengthened the company’s resolve and sharpened its focus on what matters most: serving customers and supporting its team.


Sponsored by Triton Stone Group. If you are looking to build a space defined by quality and enduring beauty, our experts can help you navigate our global collection to find a stone that perfectly fits your lifestyle. Visit www.tritonstone.com to learn more.

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Lake Martin Living Is Easy by Design

Elevated front view of a modern one-story home at Lake Martin featuring white stone and black vertical siding.
This elevated perspective reveals how the stone and siding footprint strictly follow the lot’s curve, maximizing views while creating a modern alternative to expected lake design. // Photography by Jean Allsopp, Drone Photography by Justin Clayton

A Lake Martin Home Designed for Legacy, Simplicity and Escape

“I wanted it to be as simple as possible,” says Sally Blackwell when describing her and husband Slade’s Lake Martin home. “My goal was to go in the opposite direction of what’s expected. When you walk in, you feel like you are truly on vacation.”

The Blackwells are no strangers to Lake Martin, having rented a historic Russell Lands on Lake Martin cabin for about 10 years. “When the company decided to develop The Willows, we had the opportunity to buy the original rental lot,” says Slade. “Our family has so many memories there, so we decided to continue making new ones by designing and building a home with a view towards the future.”

A One-Story Lake House Floor Plan That Maximizes Views

While the Willows neighborhood was in development, the Blackwells started sketching out their hopes and dreams and collecting inspiration. With the help of architect Heath Clement, the couple settled on a one-story design, a rarity at the lake.

Top-down aerial view of the Blackwell home showing the architectural footprint following the natural curve of the Lake Martin shoreline.
The front entrance reveals the staggered, one-story footprint that allows the home to spread across the oversized lot. The floor plan includes one center room with kitchen on one end, a dining area in the middle, and television lounge space on the other side. Bedrooms and baths branch out to each side.

“The lot was so large that we were able to design a home that would speak to the property’s curve and embrace the view at all times,” says Heath. “And while all bedrooms are on the same floor, the plan is split, so the primary suite is on one end and the guest quarters are on the other side, accessed by a breezeway. It operates like a separate guest cottage, only it’s attached.” Adds Slade, “We wanted a place that could contract and grow as needed, so even when it’s just Sally and me, it still feels welcoming.”

The Breezeway Design That Connects Indoor and Outdoor Living

The architectural contrast of native white stone against black vertical siding creates an imposing, yet restrained, silhouette against the pine trees of The Willows.

“I wanted people to have different experiences in the various outdoor spaces,” says Heath Clement. “The breezeway that divides the main house from the guest bedrooms doubles as the dining porch.” In west-facing properties at the lake, such as the Blackwells’ lot, the sun can prove quite a challenge as the family experienced in their former rental house. “By about 1pm until sunset, the light was so hot and bright that you literally could not look outside,” says Slade. Because of this, architect Heath Clement was tasked with creating a clever and attractive solution.

The breezeway has roll-down shades and privacy screens, a fireplace for less temperate days, and a hidden TV that drops down from the ceiling.
To solve the West-facing sun, Heath designed deep roof overhangs that create a massive “shading line.”

Solving Harsh Sunlight and the Architectural Secret of the 22-Degree Angle

He used transom windows on both sides of the main living space and tucked them under the roof’s overhang. “With the size and configuration of windows, the sunlight is diffused and the sun doesn’t shine directly into the house until it angles below 22 degrees—and that’s only for a short time,” Heath says. “At that point, the sun quickly drops behind the trees.” “I wanted people to have different experiences in the various outdoor spaces,” says architect Heath Clement.

Interior view of a Lake Martin living room showing how deep roof overhangs and transom windows diffuse direct sunlight.
Inside the main living space, the architectural “shading line” is in full effect. The transom windows allow the sky’s glow to enter while the deep roof overhangs block the harsh heat of the afternoon sun.
A porch that feels like a natural extension of the living room, blocking the heat while keeping the view entirely unobstructed.
Architect Heath Clement’s master sightline plan ensured that neither outdoor furniture nor the boat dock interferes with the view.

Want to Tour the Interiors?


Resources

Architecture: B. Heath Clement, Clement Architecture & Design General Contractor: Marbury McCullough, TCC Contractors Interior Design: Meredith Roberts, Gray Blake Interiors Landscape Design: Earthworks Landscape Supply Main Wall Color: White Dove, Benjamin Moore Hardwood Flooring: Pale White Oak (Custom)

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4 Famous 30A Recipes to Bring South Walton to Your Kitchen

Photos courtesy of Walton County Tourism

The Flavors of the Emerald Coast

Is there anything better than dining out to enjoy fresh seafood when visiting the beach?

The many chefs of South Walton County, Florida, have been catering to our taste buds for decades in restaurants both new and established. From Southern-inspired coastal cuisines to creative fusions in both casual and fine dining atmospheres, these chefs know what flavors get our attention.

Visiting the Beaches of South Walton soon? Be sure to check out these favorite local establishments.

A Taste of 30A at Home

In the meantime, take a trip to Sexton’s Seafood in Cahaba Heights for fresh-from-the-coast seafood and try these select recipes from the South Walton Florida cookbook in your own home. From cocktails to appetizers to main courses, we’ve assembled a light, four-course dinner sure to please any beachgoer.


The Cocktail: Sandpiper Splash

Kick off your evening with this refreshing creation from Mixologist Shannon August. This drink perfectly captures the transition into spring with its vibrant watermelon base and a kick of Szechuan peppercorn.

The Sandpiper Splash from 30A Distilling Co. in Santa Rosa Beach features a spicy-sweet Tajin rim.

Yields: 1 Serving

INGREDIENTS

  • 1.5 ounces agave
  • 5 ounces orange rum
  • 2 ounces fresh watermelon water
  • Muddled allspice, cardamom, Szechuan peppercorn
  • Tajin rim
  • Mint sprig for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Add first 4 ingredients to a cocktail shaker and shake well.

Rim glass with tajin. Pour over ice. Garnish with fresh mint.


The Appetizer: Smoked Tuna Dip

No beach trip is complete without a classic tuna dip. Chef Princeton McDonald’s version is a local favorite, served beachside at the Hilton Sandestin. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for a coastal gathering.

Chef Princeton McDonald’s Smoked Tuna Dip is a staple at the Hilton Sandestin beachside.

Yields: 2 Quarts

INGREDIENTS

  • 6 pounds smoked tuna
  • 3 pounds cream cheese
  • 72 ounces Hellman’s Mayonnaise
  • 2 ounces liquid smoke
  • 1.5 ounces Worcestershire sauce
  • 1.5 teaspoons granulated garlic
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 15 julienne-cut green onions
  • 1.5 ounces TABASCO® sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix all ingredients in large bowl.

Refrigerate until serving.

Serve with house-made tortilla chips or fresh cucumbers.


The Main: Summer Lobster Roll

Executive Chef Camille Withall’s Summer Lobster Roll features fresh mango and crisp cucumber for a tropical 30A twist.

George’s is famous for regional coastal fare with global flavors. Executive Chef Camille Withall elevates the traditional lobster roll by adding a bright, tropical sweetness that perfectly complements the buttery brioche.

Yields: 12 Sandwiches

INGREDIENTS

  • 3 pounds cooked lobster, preferably claw and knuckle meat (about 6 cups)
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chives, finely chopped
  • 1 cup Kewpie Mayo
  • 12 hoagie rolls
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cucumber, sliced thin (about ¼ inch)
  • 1 cup mangoes, diced

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine lobster, spices, and mayonnaise in a large bowl, and set aside.

Slice hoagie rolls down the middle, leaving about a half-inch portion to keep a hinge on the sandwich.

Melt butter in a skillet, and toast hoagie rolls with the cut side facing down.

Arrange slices of cucumbers on one side of the hoagie roll and about 2 tablespoons of diced mango on the other side.

Scoop lobster mixture into the middle.

Garnish with pea shoots or microgreens.


The Dessert: Mile High Key Lime Pie

Chef Jim Shirley’s Mile High Key Lime Pie is a legendary Seaside staple, topped with a signature towering meringue.

Chef Jim Shirley’s Key Lime Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a Seaside tradition. Known for its buttery graham cracker crust and a meringue that reaches for the clouds, it’s the perfect end to any 30A-inspired meal.

Yields: 1 Pie

INGREDIENTS

CRUST:

  • 12 graham crackers
  • ¼ pound butter
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

FILLING:

  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup keylime juice

MERINGUE:

  • 3 egg whites, room temperature
  • ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • ¾ cup superfine sugar

SPECIFIC TOOLS:

  • Power mixer
  • Food processor
  • 9-inch springform pan

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°.

CRUST:

Toss the crackers, butter, and sugar into a food processor and run it for a minute or so.

Firmly pat the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan, forming a crust.

Bake at 350° for 5 minutes and remove from oven.

FILLING:

Beat egg yolks till smooth.

Add condensed milk and mix well; then slowly beat in the lime juice.

Pour this concoction into the cooled crust, and pop back into the oven for 5 minutes.

MERINGUE:

While the pie cooks, add 3 egg whites into a mixing bowl with ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar.

Beat on high until soft peaks form, then add sugar a tablespoon at a time, beating till peaks get stiff.

Carefully tumble and spread meringue onto the top of the pie, and pop back into the oven.

Bake for 7 minutes; the meringue tips will start to brown.

Take pie out of the oven, let it cool, and serve.

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11 People, 1 Roof: The Siegel Family’s Secrets to Sharing a Vacation Home

The brothers, their wives, and all their children (William and Kim Siegel have four kids; David and Marianne Siegel have three kids) have a close relationship—one made even stronger by a shared love for beach life. “We are aware of what a blessing it is to have this family bond,” David says. // Photography by Dustin Adams

Sharing a vacation home requires a truly special relationship—even when it comes to the tight bond between identical twins William and David Siegel and their families. Thankfully, as co-owners of Twin Construction—not to mention having a shared childhood—the brothers know each other pretty well. They also have plenty of experience in knowing what works and what doesn’t when designing a home. Plus, they had designer Laurie Fulkerson of Twin Interiors to help them weigh wants and needs while formulating a cohesive style.

Large screened-in porch with a modern fireplace and ample seating, designed for comfortable group living and sharing a vacation home.
“When we began the design process, one goal was to preserve the native trees,” William Siegel says. “The U-shape design became the starting point.”

Strategic Planning for a Shared Family Home

To ensure things stayed that way, smart planning was a must. Careful thought was given to the project from the drawing board up.

It was important that each space allow for both shared experiences and opportunities to retreat.

Laurie Fulkerson
Seamless transition from a covered lounge to a private pool deck, highlighting the outdoor amenities enjoyed when sharing a vacation home.
Set close to the beach, the home enjoys ample water views while also taking in views of the pool. “The pool can be seen from the covered porch and almost every room in the house,” says William. 

With this goal in mind, the Twin team worked together to design a home that would serve all interests.

The size and layout of each room ensure it can accommodate specific furniture pieces and function. “For example, the dining room comfortably fits a large table so everyone can gather together for meals or game time,” says David. “With its three walls of glass surrounded by native scrub oak trees, it has become one of our favorite spots.”

Sun-drenched dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows and a long wooden table for hosting large groups when sharing a vacation home.
By utilizing floor-to-ceiling glass on three sides, this dining area dissolves the boundary between the interior and the surrounding canopy, anchored by a heavy-timber table that mirrors the organic textures outside.

Private Suites and Guest Accommodations

Other considerations that came into play included separate owner suites—each with a private balcony—as well as another bed and bath suite for guests. A third floor devoted to the kids offers his and hers bedrooms and baths that access an upstairs den with TV and game area.

The kids’ rooms are long spaces that allow for single beds to accommodate the three boys in one and the four girls in another. They’ve grown out of the bunk bed stage.

William Siegel
Spacious children's bedroom featuring a row of four custom twin beds to maximize sleeping capacity while sharing a vacation home.
The girls’ room and the boys’ room mimic each other in layout and feature custom twin beds in fabric from King Cotton.

Interior Design and Layout Details

Bedrooms and baths are plentiful for this combined family of 11. Each couple enjoys a private suite. Laurie decorated the personal spaces by using each couple’s favorite color: Green for David and Marianne; blue for William and Kim.

Sophisticated primary bedroom featuring a sage green color-drenched palette, providing a private sanctuary when sharing a vacation home.
This space utilizes a singular hue—muted sage—applied across walls, trim, and doors. The “color-drenching” technique creates a cocoon-like atmosphere, broken only by the crisp white textures of the coastal bedding.
Bedside vignette with natural textures and linen drapery, showcasing the quiet personal spaces essential to sharing a vacation home.
Natural materials take center stage here. The combination of a woven grasscloth nightstand, a ceramic glazed lamp, and sheer linen drapery creates a layered, tactile experience that feels sophisticated yet relaxed.
Modern bathroom design with vertical-stack emerald green tiles, offering high-end finishes for multiple families sharing a vacation home.
“I wanted each owner’s suite to feel distinct while still complementing one another beautifully,” Laurie says. The high-gloss finish of rich forest-green subway tiles reflects light throughout the space, offering a bold, jewel-box contrast to the matte vanity.

Entertaining for Eleven

Designed to accommodate a crowd, the home includes:

  • A kitchen island with barstool seating for 6.
  • A dining room that seats 10.
  • A covered outdoor dining area.
  • A self-serve bar stocked with a mini-fridge and snacks overlooking the pool deck.
A self-serve bar stocked with a mini-fridge and snacks overlooks the pool deck.

The Siegel Family Tips for Sharing a Vacation Home

Whose weekend is it? A calendar is key for planning. The Siegels share common holidays and allot times for individual families as requested.

Create a kids’ hangout separate from the adults. The Siegels’ children share bedrooms and a TV lounge on the third floor.


RESOURCES:

Home design and build: Twin Construction; Interior design and furnishings: Laurie Fulkerson, Twin Interiors; Dining room wallpaper: Thibaut, through Twin Interiors; Countertops: Surface One Tile: Triton Stone Group; Rug in den: Billy Brown Flooring

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The “Neutral” Masterclass: 4 Design Lessons from Grayton Beach

Lesson 1: Create Warmth

Incorporate rough-hewn beams to delineate large, open-concept areas.

The Result: These structural elements add an immediate modern farmhouse attitude to tall ceilings, preventing the generous proportions from feeling cold or uninviting.

These heavy wooden elements bring an immediate “modern farmhouse attitude” to the architecture, turning grand proportions into intimate spaces. Paired with tactile rugs and soft shiplap, the beams provide a structural warmth that bridges the gap between modern and rustic for a home that feels effortlessly lived-in. // Photography by Jean Allsopp // Styling by Lynn Nesmith

Lesson 2: Add Dimension

Incorporate large-scale lighting, like oversized pendants.

The Result: These pieces bring drama and offer a contrasting texture against the home’s bolder tones, creating a “tactile richness.”

Suspended over a sleek bathroom vanity, this large-scale lighting introduces a structural drama that anchors the room. The dark, linear frames offer a gorgeous contrast against the marble’s bolder tones.

Lesson 3: Mix It Up

Don’t be afraid of a little asymmetry in your styling.

The Result: Off-center styling enlivens without the need for bright colors. This approach to decor creates visual interest that feels curated and personal rather than staged.

The off-center styling of this console creates a “visual interest” that enlivens the room through texture alone. By mixing raw wood, fringe, and bold art, the space transcends a “decorated” look to feel deeply personal and intentionally curated.

Lesson 4: Let There Be Light

Use delicate fixtures to complement heavy materials.

The Result: Lighting should reach out to soften the room. The warmth of gold and the clarity of glass ensure that a high-contrast palette feels sophisticated and airy rather than closed-in.

This delicate gold and crystal fixture reaches out to soften the room, providing a graceful counterpoint to its bold, heavy textures. The warmth of the metal and the clarity of the glass ensure the space feels expansive rather than closed-in.

The Final Touch

A space truly comes alive when you layer in textures.

This Grayton Beach home proves that when you balance comfort with creativity, you create a “laid-back spirit” that perfectly nods to its coastal setting.

This guest bedroom nods to the coast through breezy drapes, warm oak, and sculptural silhouettes. Here, texture does the heavy lifting: by layering crisp white linens against a bold cowhide rug and organic wooden accents, the room achieves a “laid-back spirit” that feels both grounded and effortless.

Beyond the Lessons

The true beauty of this home lies in how they harmonize.

Resources

Interior design: Georgia Carlee, Georgia Carlee Interiors Primary bedroom art: Carmody Baker (Western Lake photograph), IG: @carmodybaker

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