A Palmetto Bluff Foyer That Sets the Tone with Coastal Texture and Bold Color
Get the look: Entry with intention
Story by Barry Kaufman + Photo by Kelli Boyd Photography
In a home that adds a subtly transitional spin to classic Lowcountry elements, this foyer in Palmetto Bluff serves as a beautiful introduction to the design aesthetic that lies beyond.
“This is the owner’s Lowcountry home, so she wanted that kind of coastal vibe without it feeling overdone,” said Adrienne Warner with Court Atkins Group, who aided in the home’s design.
To that end, they started with elements that define the Lowcountry. Running across the floor and up the stair treads, white oak lends a touch of organic texture and light color. Soaring board-and-batten walls in crisp white reflect the Lowcountry desire to create spaces that don’t compete with the natural beauty outside each window. Rattan seating further reinforces the aesthetic, evoking the rough texture of a shrimp boat’s bowline and the woven intricacy of a seagrass basket.
Carrying a color palette inspired by the antique rug, but with the saturation turned up to ten, the eye-catching artwork stands in vibrant contrast to the otherwise restrained tones of the foyer. And that’s very much by design.
“She wanted to bring in a little stronger color, so that piece in the entry turned out perfectly,” said Warner. “That’s a Betty Anglin Smith piece we purchased at Red Piano Gallery in Bluffton. She’s an artist from Charleston, and she’s amazing.”
The color-drenched artwork, framed by the traditional colors and textures of the Lowcountry, creates a welcoming atmosphere in the foyer and serves as a gorgeous nod to the palette of a Palmetto Bluff sunrise. The result is a space that refines the classic Lowcountry aesthetic, bridging old and new for a stunning first impression.
Style study
Recreate this Palmetto Bluff entryway by blending organic textures, architectural detail and a bold stroke of color:
1. Ground the space with natural wood: Wide-plank white oak flooring adds warmth and flow. Extend it to stair treads for a custom, seamless look.
2. Let the walls do the talking: Opt for crisp white board-and-batten paneling to give height and character without stealing attention from outdoor views or bold artwork.
3. Choose sculptural seating: Woven rattan stools offer texture and form. Look for curved silhouettes that nod to coastal life without going full beach house.
4. Add a table with presence: A pedestal table in a deep tone anchors the space and provides a place to display fresh greenery or a seasonal vignette.
5. Make your art the showstopper: Balance a quiet backdrop with one vibrant, saturated piece. Go local if you can. Look for regional artists whose work reflects your surroundings.
6. Let light lead the way: A streamlined architectural sconce adds warmth and focus, drawing attention to the artwork and surrounding details without competing with them.
