Island Sanctuary - This shingle-style residence on Isle of Palms was designed for Keith and Susan Ward, who were looking to turn their longtime beach house into a winter retreat. When Keith passed away mid-project, Susan was determined to fulfill their shared vision.
Hamptons in the House: Herlong Architecture & Interiors designed the shingle-style beachfront house on Isle of Palms. Featuring a classic Hamptons look, with a whimsical roofline, turrets, and rotundas, the 5,000-square-foot home provides plenty of space and grandeur for the homeowner’s art and antique collections, while maintaining a casual coastal vibe.
For the interiors, designer Cintra Sedalik looked to balance formal and informal, “inviting but structured, sophisticated but not arrogant,” she says. (Above) The main living room pairs vintage Chinoiserie-style side tables and a Tibetan silk rug with Highland House ottomans wrapped in Brunschwig & Fils fabric and stylish Bruce Andrew side chairs.
Arched mahogany doors lead into a barrel ceiling with plaster walls, adding sophistication to the entryway.
A built-in wet bar and cabinets surrounding the fireplace were inspired by late 20th-century Chippendale cabinets and designed to feel timeless with a subtle sense of whimsy.
A plaster hood and tiled backsplash highlight the La Cornue range. Quartzite countertops and islands provide ample prep space.
Original Baker chairs recovered in Claremont and Calvin fabrics up the luxe factor in the dining area.
Built-in cabinets display Susan’s cherished china collection.
Party Pantry: An avid chef, Susan uses every inch of the pantry to store her dishes and serving ware. Built by Hostetler Custom Cabinetry, the pale green cabinets pop against the white quartzite countertops.
The primary bedroom features a curved plaster ceiling and walls, enhancing the warmth of the cozy space. Susan selected an oil painting of the English countryside from her Gainesville home for above the fireplace, opting to hide the TV in a nearby armoire. “I love that piece. I’d rather look at it than a TV,” she says. Deep green drapes and patterned bedding from Lewis & Wood, Imogen Heath, and Cowtan & Tout add interest.
Curves continue in the primary bathroom where a striking Currey & Company chandelier with glass beads hangs from a domed ceiling, painted by local artisan Angela Cabán. A mosaic tile floor of Carrara and Grigio Carnico marble grounds the elegant space.
Expansive porches combine Lowcountry and New England architecture to create generous spaces for gathering and taking in the ocean views. A Made Goods table and Summer Classics chairs offer an opportunity for alfresco dining just outside the main living space.
A cozy sitting area surrounds a fireplace decorated with Moroccan tile.
A grand staircase leads to the second floor, where plaster walls accentuate a gallery hall showcasing Susan’s collection of antique silk screens from China.
A curved window seat at the end of the gallery hall is upholstered with a Cowtan & Tout fabric with pillows in textiles by Katie Leede & Company, Rose Tarlow, and McLaurin & Piercy.
The family room/library features wall paneling painted in Benjamin Moore “Jack Pine” and paisley-patterned drapes from Fermoie.
A large blue sectional from Younger & Company provides plenty of seating, and a wet bar leading to a rooftop balcony facilitates entertaining.
A window seat and comfy leather chair from Robin Bruce create additional cozy spaces in the room.
The downstairs guest room is a feminine space designed for when Susan’s girlfriends come to stay. The pretty paisley fabrics and Benjamin Moore “Sesame” wall paint create a fun, retro aesthetic.
Upstairs, Susan’s daughter’s room has a darker, more moody feel.
The deep brown Moroccan tile in the bathroom was inspired by the family’s trip to Iceland.
A family beach house on the Isle of Palms was transformed into a forever home when life took an unexpected turn
