Behind-the-Design: The Timeless Charm of a Southern Beach House
Nestled on Sullivan’s Island in South Carolina is a small beach community with around only 2,000 residents and plenty of room for relaxation. When visiting a small beach town in the South, what more do you need other than your bathing suit, sunscreen, towel, and of course a charming beach house to stay at (don’t forget one with a porch or deck please!)
Interior Designer, Melissa Lee of New South Home is an expert when it comes to designing a beach house with all the coastal living essentials. This project was first approached by Melissa and her team with 2 goals in mind: elegance and practicality. Although, they only had from December to Memorial Day to complete a full-gut remodel, they not only met their goal, but also presented a beach house that is welcoming and comfortable enough for the three generations of family to vacation like locals. Melissa shared with us what the essentials are to accomplish a timeless beach house without going overboard with coastal décor.
For starters - embrace the surrounding environment! One of the best ways to bring a coastal vibe into your home is to incorporate natural materials. “We used a lot of natural materials and textures, such as grasscloth, rattan, and we used some faux plants since it’s a vacation home, our clients didn’t want to have to water the plants when they’re gone,” Melissa mentioned.
The color palette tied in with local art also helps set the tone for the coast, “Varying shades of blue are woven throughout the home in an ode to the ocean nearby and the client and designer's favorite shade,” Melissa emphasized. Blue is known to create a cohesive and calming atmosphere – an absolute must when on vacation!
Practicality for this beach house is a must, given that it needs to accommodate 3 generations! With four levels to work with, space planning and maximizing every part of the home was crucial. As Melissa explained, “A small and underutilized 4th floor was requested to turn into a kid-friendly zone to appeal to the grandchildren and parents. Four built-in bunk beds, a TV lounge with toys and a queen sleeper sofa, and a full bathroom were added in a previously small attic office.” Melissa and her team made sure every room felt spacious and inviting, giving plenty of room for the family to kick back and enjoy their time together.
When guests need a break from the sand, but still want to be outdoors, they can enjoy the spacious backyard. With options like swimming or lounging by the pool, dining al fresco, and taking in the salty air on the porch, this beach house offers space for everyone.
Believe it or not, Melissa revealed “all final construction details, finish selections, and furnishings were selected remotely and delivered and installed in time for the family's annual Memorial Day vacation, keeping the project timeline in under 6 months.” Each material and furnishing choice for this project was sourced locally while also being carefully curated to withstand the wear and tear of daily life.
This Sullivan's Island beach house is more than just a vacation home; it's a retreat that accommodates the needs of a multi-generational family! Its mix of elegance, comfort, and practicality makes it a perfect example of everything a beach house for 16 should be. Whether you're dreaming of your own beach house or seeking inspiration for a family-friendly yet sophisticated home, this property is sure to inspire.