Coastal Chic: Island Retreat Designed for Relaxing and Entertaining

When a couple from New England decided to build a vacation home on Florida’s picturesque Anna Maria Island, they envisioned a minimalist retreat defined by shiplap paneling and a crisp black-and-white color palette. However, as is often the case in the design process, their ideas evolved once they started working with designer Emily Moss and her team at Emily Moss Designsopens in a new tab. “We took their ideas and added a little more color and fun to give it a coastal look that’s both modern and really inviting,” says Moss.

The goal was to design a relaxing getaway for the couple that would also be a gathering place for their family and friends, and function as a short-term rental for vacationers. This multifunctional need called for a balance of eye-catching design moments and durable materials that could withstand heavy use.

To inject that essential “wow” factor, Moss turned to the color blue—a natural choice for an island home. Rich shades of blue were used throughout the home—the kitchen island base, the dining area wall and cabinetry, the living room fireplace tiles, and in décor accents.

In the kitchen, Cambria’s Portrush on all the counters and backsplashes adds drama. “I loved the way the pattern mimics the lines that form when water washes up on sand and then retreats,” says Moss. “It brings not only visual movement but an idea of what’s happening on the beach just blocks away.” Cambria’s durability made it the obvious choice for a house that has to stand up to heavy use from family and vacationers. Wood tones and rich textures balance the bold blue and white palette with materials like engineered oak flooring—another durable choice that runs throughout the open floor plan—woven bar stools, and a rope-accented pendant light.

The dining area continues the themes established in the kitchen, but with a softer approach. Printed grasscloth accent wall adds a hit of blue, a natural pattern, and subtle texture. The bar cabinetry repeats the kitchen island color. And a beaded chandelier delivers an elegant coastal vibe perfect for entertaining.

In the living room, the floor-to-ceiling fireplace wall takes center stage. “When you walk into the house, you see the living room on your left and the kitchen on your right,” says Moss. “The fireplace anchors the space, and then the kitchen picks up the color, for a cohesive look.” Simple, comfortable furnishings paired with warm wood tones complete the effect, for a home that feels like a casual extension of the beach and as luxurious as a five-star hotel.