Nestled among the moss-draped oaks of Lady’s Island in Beaufort, South Carolina, this waterfront home is a love letter to Lowcountry living. Designed by Wendy Mauro Design, the residence seamlessly blends classic craftsmanship with a relaxed, lived-in elegance—one that pays homage to the region’s natural beauty and the client’s deep-rooted appreciation for vintage charm.

 

Originally, the property housed an existing structure, but a renovation proved too extensive. Instead, the homeowners opted for a full rebuild, embracing the opportunity to create a space that truly reflected their lifestyle. “This is a third home for our retired clients,” Wendy shares. “They wanted a place on the water where their family could gather—a retreat that felt comfortable, relaxed, and timeless.”

 

From the outset, the vision was clear: a modern take on the classic fishing lodge, where layered textures, organic materials, and a rich, earth-toned palette would set the tone. The selection of deep green windows became the defining element—a decision that organically shaped the rest of the design. “That was the catalyst for our vision,” Wendy explains. “We carried green tones throughout the home, pulling the exterior into the interiors for a cohesive, immersive feel.”

 

This project was particularly special—one of the many collaborations Wendy has shared with these clients. With an understanding of their aesthetic and sensibilities, she was able to weave in personal touches that spoke to their history. A prime example: reclaimed paneling salvaged from a beloved family cabin, now reimagined in soft white in the main living area.

 

“They also had these incredible collections—hunting birds, antlers, shark teeth, a telescope, vintage art of historic homes,” Wendy recalls. “We carefully placed these throughout the space, creating a home that doesn’t just look curated but truly tells a story.”

 

A firm believer in the longevity of natural materials, Wendy approached the home’s finishes with an eye toward both beauty and durability. “I always go back to the classics,” she reflects. “Millwork, craftsmanship, and warm textures—they stand the test of time.”

 

Throughout the home, she layered in tactile elements that add depth and interest. The kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms feature natural stone, while polished nickel hardware adds a refined contrast to the soft, coastal hues of the tilework. Custom-designed elements—including upholstered beds, tailored sofas, and a handcrafted French farm table that extends for gatherings—reinforce the home’s thoughtful, personal touch.

 

Lighting, too, played a pivotal role. With sweeping views of the water, expansive sliders and windows flood the home with natural light, while the bedrooms embrace a more intimate mood with natural woven roman shades. “I love adding natural shades to windows—it gives a coastal feel and brings warmth through material variation,” Wendy says. In the primary bedroom, drapery panels introduce a sense of drama and softness.

 

Designing a home from afar always presents logistical hurdles, but strong communication was key. “This was our first time building remotely,” Wendy explains. “Our client became the direct point of contact for the builder, and we scheduled monthly site visits to walk through the space. It really helped us refine our processes and streamline our communication with builders and trades.”

 

The result is a sanctuary that feels both elevated and effortless—a place where history, nature, and refined design exist in harmony. “I really love the clean lines of this home,” Wendy says. “We chose classic selections but layered them with fabrics and the client’s personal collections, which made it feel like home right away.”

 

Beyond this project, the experience reaffirmed Wendy’s core design philosophy. “At one point, I felt pressure to be edgy or ‘new’ in design, but I always return to the classics,” she reflects. “Great design isn’t about trends—it’s about craftsmanship, warmth, and authenticity. When a space feels grounded in those things, it will always be relevant.”

 

As design continues to evolve, Wendy sees a shift toward intentional, uncluttered spaces that honor tradition while embracing modern functionality. “Sometimes, design can feel overdone,” she says. “But I think reflecting on classic characteristics of old homes—combined with practical, thoughtful details—is what creates true longevity.”

 

And as for the clients? “They loved it,” Wendy shares with a smile. “And that’s the best part—when a house feels like home from the moment you walk in.”

 

For more on this project and other designs by Wendy Mauro Design, visit wendymaurodesign.com or follow along on Instagram @wendymaurodesign.