Cooler temps don’t keep Melissa and Valmar Nunes and their adorable pup, Mason, cooped up indoors. The couple designed their RiverTowne abode—complete with a marsh-front pool, open-air kitchen, and this alfresco fireplace—for outdoor entertaining year-round.
High Five: The Nuneses opted to elevate the “farmhouse” structure to prevent flooding and optimize the Wando River views.
“I love that the design is modern yet has a vintage appeal about it,” says Melissa about the rattan porch
White Out: Melissa describes her home style as clean-lined and coastal. All-white built-ins and furnishings in the living room feel fresh, while acacia wood floors warm the neutral palette. In the otherwise open layout, a wraparound fireplace helps to create distinct zones for lounging and eating.
Smart Buys: The kitchen is home to some of Melissa’s favorite bargain finds, such as the vintage-looking tile from Overstock.com.
In the Mix: A wooden bead chandelier and an eclectic mix of chairs around the farmhouse table lend casual elegance to the dining area.
Open-Door Policy: A roll-up glass door connects the pool-house kitchen with the patio; a miniature version links to the outdoor bar and grilling station.
Mount Pleasant-based Aquatica Pools and Spas built the heated infinity pool, which overlooks the marsh and the Wando River.
Fun for All: When they’re not swimming—the water’s a cozy 85 degrees—Valmar, Melissa, and their pup, Mason, can often be found relaxing in the outdoor living space, complete with a bar.
Bunk House: In eight-year-old Cruz’s room, soccer-themed bedding from Wayfairer.com adds a kid-friendly dose of color to shiplap bunk beds. A few lengths of pipe and fittings make for a stylish rail on the top bunk.
The second floor of the pool house boasts built-in beds in four cozy alcoves so overnight guests are always welcome.
Clever Quarters: Reclaimed wood paneling and geometric built-ins strike the right balance between warm and modern in the guest space.
