Two opposing aesthetics collide at this calming coastal retreat in South Carolina

Hired to design a 6,500-square-foot home in South Carolina near the Kiawah River from the ground up, Jenny Keenan faced a unique challenge: creating a residence for a pair of empty nesters with completely opposing senses of style. “She wanted a Southern low-country feel, and he preferred a more contemporary aesthetic,” Keenan says. “We like projects to feel transitional—fresh and modern—but still with a timeless quality, so we worked hard to make them both happy.”

While some spaces, such as a main corridor adorned with a colorful botanical wallcovering, tend to lean more toward the wife’s aesthetic preference, others, such as the dark, moodier home office, deliver on the husband’s wishes. Still, most of the five-bedroom home’s myriad rooms are neutral territory, kept effortlessly in balance by Keenan and her team. One such space is the expansive kitchen, where natural wood reigns supreme. Finding several 22-foot-long reclaimed beams proved to be a tall task, but Keenan’s design process didn’t even start with the natural elements. Rather, it began with the mint green range.

“We had to push a little when selecting the soft green color,” Keenan says. “The client preferred to stay neutral, but we convinced her to go with a color that she would never get tired of, one that would look great with her natural wood cabinetry.” Plus, it’s unique, and unique is Keenan’s specialty.

Another place where the palette takes center stage is the bunk room, where five beds (including one nestled in a window nook) are wrapped in an earthy, herbaceous hue. “We get asked to do a bunk room on almost every project now because people love the versatility of the space,” she says. Designed to accommodate the homeowners’ large extended family during holidays and gatherings, it features extra-long mattresses comfortable enough for adults as well as younger guests.

Although Keenan’s flair for boldness is a bit more muted and pared-back in this waterfront home, the color story suits the serene backdrop perfectly. “They wanted the house to feel pretty but not too feminine, which I believe we accomplished,” she says.

FAST FACTS

Designer: Jenny Keenan

Location: South Carolina

The Space: A 6,500-square-foot new build.

FRONT HALL

An arched opening reveals an artistic, colorful mural.

Located just off the entry, this area, featuring a tropical Mile Mouns Paper mural, is a joyful introduction to the home. “It was one of the first purchases, and we based the home’s palette on it,” says Keenan.

KITCHEN

Glass partitions and ample windows maximize natural light.

“The statement jewels in the kitchen are the pendants from Jamb, which we worked hard to convince the homeowners to splurge on. They are perfect in the space!” Keenan says.

In addition to the wooden accents throughout, the clients wanted a stylish Lacanche range to complete the room. A plaster-covered hood adds texture, while windows above the sink look out on the low-country landscape beyond.

BAR

Brass details and a mirror backsplash add a touch of shine.

To offset the kitchen’s neutral color scheme, Keenan turned to De Nimes, an atmospheric blue paint by Farrow & Ball, to help the nearby bar stand out. “The clients wanted a really fun bar, but it still had to have a traditional feel,” she says.

SCULLERY

Zellige tile walls bring subtle pattern and shine.

Swathed in Farrow & Ball Skylight paint, this is one of the most used rooms. “A space like this helps keep the main kitchen uncluttered,” Keenan adds.

DINING ROOM

Reclaimed wood beams run along the ceiling, adding patina.

While there’s no formal dining room in the home, Verellen chairs and a Clubcu table off the kitchen serve for both formal and informal meals. “I’d bet they eat here more than they do at the kitchen island,” Keenan adds.

LIVING ROOM

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One wall in the living room is anchored by sliding doors sans window treatments, helping to maximize views and natural light. A low-slung ottoman doubles as a coffee table.

SUNROOM

A custom couch offers ample seating for guests and sun worshipers.

“Our client really wanted to introduce some pecky cypress wood, and this little bump-out was the perfect place to bring it in,” Keenan says of the walls.

POWDER ROOM

A mural-like pattern brings a touch of moody energy.

A floating marble sink anchors the petite powder room, with space on either side for toiletries or accessories.

OFFICE

Stained wood ceilings keep the space feeling light.

The client wanted deep tones in his home office to showcase his memorabilia and guitars.

BUNK ROOM

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“We started with Benjamin Moore Fernwood Green paint, which, in this setting, is almost a neutral,” Keenan says. An arched window nook offers a magical place to relax or read.

GUEST ROOM

Ample layers create a cozy guest retreat.

The entire design of the lower-level retreat was inspired by its Lewis & Wood wallpaper. “It’s bold but calm at the same time,” Keenan says.

OFFICE

Ceiling planks call attention to the room’s long and narrow shape.

Keenan kept the palette in this petite office simple, relying on a neutral-backed House of Harris wallpaper to add personality.

ENTERTAINMENT LOUNGE

An inky blue sets the tone for at-home movie nights.

On the lower level, a cozy at-home theater acts as a way for the family to connect and enjoy each other’s company. A mix of sectionals and lounge chairs offers ample spots to curl up and enjoy a flick.

COVERED PORCH

A vaulted ceiling creates more of a connection with the outdoors.

“This sitting area is as close as you can get to the water, and we knew that it would be where they’d want to hang out. Comfort was our biggest focus,” Keenan says.

About the Designer

Jenny Keenan founded her eponymous design firm in 2004 in Charleston, SC, where her signature warmth and ease build trusted, long-term relationships. Jenny brings a meticulous, thoughtful approach to the planning phase of every project, considering every layer from plaster finishes to custom cabinetry and hardwood floors. Her deep knowledge of materials and eye for detail, especially in finishes, is what truly sets her apart. She has a particular talent for sourcing and selecting stunning decorative lighting and original art, infusing each space with personality and a lived-in sense of place. Jenny’s travels, both domestic and abroad, have broadened her perspective and deepened her love for craftsmanship and storytelling, influences that subtly weave their way into the textures, palettes, and soul of her work.