Home Run
Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Making memories with family and friends was the key objective in creating this 9,700 square foot vacation home. Located in Kiawah Island's beach community, this 10 bed, 11.5 bath house takes full advantage of coastal living. The open floor plan and use of outdoor space encourages interaction between family and friends while enjoying the natural surroundings.

The owners wanted a house exterior that blended with the surrounding shingle style homes on the island, yet also sought a contrasting contemporary interior. Pushing and pulling of the façade allowed the architect to create an interesting form that lends itself to balanced proportions. The expansive glass and cable railings lighten the mass while creating a more transparent structure.

The first floor is elevated above the flood elevation, allowing cars to park under the structure. A separate guest house allows friends to enjoy the site while the owners are not in town. With the help of an operable glass garage door, the bottom floor opens for outdoor entertainment. Minimal details, such as exposed steel beams, reglets and steel cable railings emphasize clean lines throughout the home. The use of lift and slide doors with thin mullion profiles creates great openings for sunlight and ocean views in the major living areas.

Supplied by the client, the main staircase utilizes reclaimed wood salvaged from a building in upstate New York. To combat the constant ocean spray and sun exposure, the clients sought very low maintenance materials. This was accomplished using engineered shingles, a slate roof and stone foundation. Impact rated glass protects from hurricanes, while interior motorized blackout shades provide privacy and screen the interior from unwanted light when not in use. A geothermal heat pump provides an efficient way to cool the house and a concealed generator protects the home against unexpected power outages.