Type: Residential

Size: 3,300 SF

Year: 2023

Status: Construction

Brief: A new residence designed for a couple relocating from Seattle to Pawleys Island, South Carolina, balances modern aesthetics with functional design, aimed at entertaining and aging in place. Originally envisioned as a three-story, 4,000 square foot home, the design evolved into a more fitting 3,300 square foot, two-story home, aligning better with their needs and budget.

The modern design features flat roofs, ample outdoor deck space, and abundant natural light. The main level, elevated on piles due to the island’s unique soil conditions, includes a large primary bedroom with an ADA-accessible en-suite, a centralized living room with a balanced fireplace and built-in shelves, and a kitchen filled with windows. A spiral staircase adds architectural interest and connects the spaces. The lower level, designed for practicality, houses a three-car garage, an office with space for a ping pong table, an exercise room, and a “casita” suite for guests. The first level is sacrificial, set three feet above grade, ensuring resilience against the island’s flood-prone conditions. Pawleys Island’s sandy soils and flood zones necessitate building elevated structures. Supported by piles and strategically designed for flood mitigation, this residence embodies innovative and resilient architecture.

It not only fulfills the couple’s vision of a forever home but also harmonizes with the natural beauty and environmental demands of Pawleys Island, creating a sanctuary that is both elegant and enduring.