Dillard-Jones brings Lowcountry living to life at the Southern Living Idea House
Nestled between two majestic live oak trees along the Kiawah River, the Southern Living Idea House 2024 is part of the Kiawah River community on tranquil Johns Island, South Carolina. Greenville-based builder Dillard-Jones collaborated with interior designer Allison Elebash of Allison Elebash Interior Design, architect Kirsten Schoettelkotte of MHK Architecture, and landscape architect Scott Parker of DesignWorks to create this stunning showcase of Lowcountry living.
Dillard-Jones Southern Living Idea House Photo Tour
A tabby walkway (made from crushed oyster shells) beckons visitors to the front porch, where propane-fueled copper lanterns cast a welcoming glow. Shaded by a sprawling live oak tree, the main part of the 4,400-square-foot structure recalls a historic Lowcountry farmhouse.
Family Room
Ceiling beams and light-hued wood built-ins flanking the fireplace add to the warm farmhouse ethos in this inviting family gathering space. Open to the dining area and kitchen, the airy room centers on the elegant limestone fireplace from Alabama Stone.
Staircase
The Heirloom Companies in Campobello, South Carolina, collaborated with Dillard-Jones and MHK to design the striking freestanding white oak staircase. It winds gracefully up to the second floor past a massive expanse of windows, affording a peek at the neighborhood’s working farm just across the street.
Dining Area
The view draws you in as you enter the home and look straight back to an idyllic marsh scene. Next to the 60-inch round walnut dining table by Brooks Custom Woodworks, sliding glass doors reveal Spanish moss dripping from live oak branches beside Appapola Creek.
Friends’ Entrance
Accessible from the driveway, the casual entrance for “backdoor friends” is a Southern tradition. Inside, leafy blue and white Melcer tiles line the nook that doubles as a bar, equipped with an icemaker, a double-drawer refrigerator, and a fully integrated wine sommelier—all GE Monogram appliances.
Upstairs Den
Complete with its own wet bar, the upstairs den fashions a cozy lair of nickel-gap walls and comfy seating—including a Bryant Bumper Chaise Sectional by Coley Home. In contrast to the open floor plan downstairs, the den is a perfect place for a private escape.
Twin Bedroom
Playful and airy, the subdued blue and white color scheme of the twin bedroom is designed to appeal to kids of any age. Symmetry reigns in the matching Reids Classic beds with upholstered headboards and the Kismet hanging sconces.
Screened Porch
Providing space for all-season outdoor living is de rigueur in the Lowcountry, so Tom Dillard obliged by screening the porch. Hardy Zuri Premium Decking in Walnut harmonizes with the home’s overall style, while the wood-burning fireplace warms up the outdoor room in winter.
Back Patio
Spacious entertaining areas behind the house are designed to dovetail with their natural surroundings and take advantage of the waterfront views. Equally suited to entertaining and relaxing, this outdoor patio lays out ample seating under the canopy of an old live oak.
