Less is More with Gulf Coast Cottage

A blank slate is enlivened by symbolic art and curated furnishings.

This picturesque property along the Gulf Coast was a dream find in an ideal community for homeowners Al and Julie Barnes. In fact, it was the lot and location rather than its 1950s ranch-style home, that first made their hearts sing. But once the couple’s artist daughter, Emily, had a look, she sold her parents on the vision of a pearly palette punctuated by colorful canvases.