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Bostonian Beach House
T
his oceanfront home stands out from its neighbors as an homage to New England-style
architecture. Refined detail is a passion of the homeowner, who worked hand-in-hand with Marc
to meld her Boston heritage, and love of mermaids and refined interiors, with casual Kiawah living.
Using the homeowner's other residence—located in the suburbs of Boston—as inspiration, the home
features a more traditional template than its location would seem to dictate. The grand circular staircase
inside helps create the wedding cake-like top of the house, which serves as a light shaft for the interior.
A custom weather vane features the homeowner's beloved icon of a mermaid, and the theme can be
seen inside, as well.
Upon entry, the central stairway greets guests. The cantilevered stairway extends over the space below;
its steel frame was built in Plattsburgh, New York, then deconstructed for shipment. During the building
phase, the rebuilt frame was attached to the outside wall planes to ensure stability. The entire process
was under the direction of a structural engineer to ensure integrity. The staircase's ornate details trail
upward as the eye is drawn to the top of the light shaft, where a shining chandelier hangs. Wall niches
frame mermaid sculptures and built-ins in the living area serve as graceful and practical storage.
Windows throughout the residence beckon the eye to take in the spectacular vistas. Out back, the
outdoor kitchen and disappearing-edge pool provide ample entertainment space when the homeowner
doesn't want to walk down to the beach via the custom boardwalk that extends from the back gate to
the sand.
KIAWAH ISLAND, SC
