A coastal home with a retro vibe on Sea Island, designed by Ellen Kavanaugh, resonates with childhood memories and the essence of the ocean. The house, situated in a serene marsh setting, was a dream project for Kavanaugh, who shares a nostalgic connection with her client from their days in Jacksonville. The client’s long-held desire for a beach house found fulfillment in this charming Sea Island property, reminiscent of their idyllic hometown. Collaborating with Kavanaugh, the client transformed the dated home into a modern, family-friendly space that embraces indoor-outdoor living. The highlight of the renovation was the addition of a spacious covered loggia overlooking the marsh, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment. Inspired by the client’s creative flair, Kavanaugh curated an interior aesthetic that reflected a mix of personal items, capturing a unique and eclectic style for the home. This project beautifully merges personal nostalgia, modern design, and coastal living, creating a vibrant and inviting retreat for the family.
The design concept for this home is a fusion of retro ’70s and ’80s glam with a natural beach house aesthetic. The team, led by Kavanaugh and project manager Madison Way, embraced Sea Island’s Lowcountry color palette, incorporating earthy greens, rusty pinks, natural taupes, and golden hues that complemented the cypress wood used throughout the house. Vintage and custom pieces were thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of retro glamour, reminiscent of a well-collected beachfront home in Bermuda or the Bahamas. The kitchen, for example, blends laid-back Lowcountry vibes with nostalgic coastal chic through soft blush cabinets, beechwood counter stools, brass accents, and an iridescent backsplash from Paris Ceramics.
Each room in the home showcases a blend of coastal-inspired elements, from palm print and grasscloth wallcoverings to an array of artwork, decor, and greenery. Kavanaugh describes the project as a reflection of childhood memories and ’70s glam mixed with Lowcountry casualness, creating a harmonious blend of influences. Working on this project was especially rewarding for Kavanaugh as it rekindled a meaningful friendship from her past and allowed her to work in a setting that holds personal significance.
The exterior of the home, built in the 1970s by a renowned architect on the island, features cypress wood and shutters painted in a soft green hue. The living room showcases a mix of vintage and custom pieces, while the family room boasts a sofa and accent chairs upholstered in a vibrant pattern. The kitchen serves as a gathering space with Knoll counter stools and a striking backsplash. Each room in the house exudes a unique charm, from the primary bedroom with its feminine decor to the son’s bedroom featuring palm print wallpaper. The outdoor cabana provides a relaxing retreat, completing the coastal-inspired vibe of the home.
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