Discovering Coastal Charm: A Tour of the Southern Living Idea House on Bald Head Island, NC

Last week, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Bald Head Island, North Carolina, for an exclusive tour of the stunning Southern Living Idea House. This incredible experience, along with this insightful post, is proudly sponsored by Delta Faucet. Rest assured, all thoughts and opinions shared here are entirely my own.

Having chronicled countless adventures over my eight years in blogging, I can confidently say this trip stands out as one of the most exceptional. It wasn’t just the thrill of touring the magnificent Southern Living Idea House in person; it was a perfect convergence of ideal weather, fantastic company, and the sheer joy of exploring a destination I had never before experienced. Bald Head Island offered a unique blend of tranquility and inspiration, truly making this journey a highlight.

Ferry arriving at Bald Head Island harbor, North Carolina, a car-free coastal destination — Our picturesque arrival into Bald Head Island harbor by ferry, marking the start of a memorable coastal escape.

Bald Head Island: A Car-Free Coastal Paradise

While I’ve explored numerous beaches along the North and South Carolina coastlines, Bald Head Island, NC, remained an undiscovered gem until now. This extraordinary barrier island, located approximately 35 miles south of Wilmington, NC, and 70 miles north of Myrtle Beach, SC, is entirely car-free. Its unique charm lies in its accessibility solely by boat, setting it apart as a tranquil retreat. This exclusivity contributes to its serene atmosphere, where the only sounds are often those of nature.

The vibrant harbor at Bald Head Island, NC, bustling with boats and coastal life — A captivating view of the lively harbor at Bald Head Island, NC, seen from our comfortable lodging.

This article is rich with visuals, designed to offer a comprehensive look at the remarkable designs and DIY possibilities inspired by the Southern Living Idea House. Rather than providing an exhaustive room-by-room breakdown, I’ll guide you through the features I loved most, demonstrating how you can effortlessly integrate some of these inspiring ideas into your own home.

The charming exterior of The Inn at Bald Head Island, a newly renovated coastal retreat — The welcoming facade of The Inn at Bald Head Island, promising comfort and style.

A Coastal Haven: The Inn at Bald Head Island

Before delving into the grandeur of the Idea House, allow me to introduce our delightful accommodations: the recently renovated Inn at Bald Head Island. I was incredibly fortunate to stay in the top-center room, which offered a magnificent, unobstructed view of the bustling harbor. Waking up to such a serene vista was an absolute dream, instantly setting a peaceful tone for each day.

The dedicated innkeepers at Bald Head Island ensured our every need was met with genuine warmth and efficiency. Their hospitality extended beyond expectations, even treating us to an enchanting evening boat tour. We explored the island’s captivating waterways, complete with wine, making for a truly memorable experience under the coastal sky. It was a perfect way to appreciate the island’s unique geography and natural beauty.

Boating on the scenic Cape Fear River around Bald Head Island, enjoying the coastal views

Travelers riding golf carts, the primary mode of transportation on car-free Bald Head Island, NC

On Bald Head Island, golf carts and bicycles are the quintessential modes of transportation, perfectly aligning with its eco-friendly ethos. I had the pleasure of traveling in fantastic company with fellow bloggers: Julia from Cuckoo 4 Design, Emily from Emily A. Clark, and Amie from MeMe Hill. Our wonderful hosts, Jolyn and Bella from Delta Faucets, expertly navigated us around the island, ensuring we reached every destination effortlessly.

Breathtaking morning view from the porch of the Inn at Bald Head Island, NC

This serene photograph, capturing the tranquil morning harbor, was taken from the private porch off my room on the first day of our stay. It perfectly encapsulates the peaceful start to each day on this idyllic island. The soft light and calm waters were a constant invitation to relax and embrace the coastal lifestyle.

Coastal-inspired interior decor at The Inn at Bald Head Island, featuring neutral tones and elegant touches

Although our primary reason for visiting was to immerse ourselves in the Southern Living Idea House, The Inn at Bald Head Island proved to be an equally inspiring destination. Its beautifully decorated and supremely comfortable interiors resonated perfectly with my personal decorating style. The seamless blend of coastal elegance and cozy charm made it a delightful home away from home, offering a treasure trove of design inspiration itself.

Unique lampshade DIY idea featuring black and white island photos, seen at The Inn at Bald Head Island

I collected several compelling design ideas during my stay, including this ingenious light fixture shade located in the foyer of the inn. Its interior is adorned with striking black and white photographs of Bald Head Island, adding an unexpected and deeply personal visual surprise to the space. This simple yet effective touch instantly adds character and local charm, a wonderful example of personalized decor.

The main entrance and inviting foyer of The Inn at Bald Head Island, showcasing open-plan design

I was particularly drawn to the inn’s sense of openness, beautifully complemented by the contrast of dark wood floors against crisp white walls and comfortable seating. It created an inviting and airy atmosphere that felt both sophisticated and relaxed. While I could have happily lingered there indefinitely, the allure of the Idea House called. After a delightful breakfast on our first morning, we set off to continue our design exploration.

Group of bloggers riding golf carts across Bald Head Island to the Southern Living Idea House

The Southern Living Idea House: A Vision of Coastal Living

Our journey continued across the island, a scenic twenty-minute golf cart ride that heightened our anticipation for the Southern Living Idea House. This annual showcase never fails to deliver innovative design and architectural brilliance, and this year’s installment on Bald Head Island promised to be no exception.

The impressive front entrance of the Southern Living Idea House, welcoming visitors

Upon parking our golf carts near the elegant front entrance, we began our immersive tour. We were incredibly privileged to have both the talented builder, Jeff Sanderson, and the visionary architect, Eric Moser, present. They graciously shared insights into the island’s unique environment, the thoughtful design principles behind the house, and the specific reasons for its captivating layout. Their explanations truly brought the home to life, highlighting the harmony between design and location.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living and Architectural Details

My first profound takeaway from the Idea House was its masterful design for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Expansive porches grace all sides of the residence, complemented by an abundance of large windows and doors. This thoughtful integration allows the refreshing coastal air to flow effortlessly throughout the entire home, blurring the lines between interior comfort and the natural beauty outside. It’s a testament to creating a home that truly breathes with its surroundings.

Exterior of the Southern Living Idea House featuring Light Mist Hardie Siding with crisp white trim

A striking design element was the consistent choice of black or bronze for all interior and exterior windows and doors, providing a sophisticated contrast against the crisp white trim. This deliberate palette creates a dramatic yet elegant aesthetic, grounding the home’s coastal charm with a touch of modern flair. The Hardie Siding in Light Mist further enhances the exterior’s timeless appeal, offering durability and beauty.

The 'Crofter' at the Southern Living Idea House, a golf cart garage with an upstairs guest suite

Many homes on Bald Head Island feature a distinctive space known as a “Crofter,” typically connected to the main residence. This unique term describes the golf cart garages essential for island living, but it also cleverly incorporates a fantastic guest suite above. This dual-purpose structure maximizes space and offers comfortable, private accommodations for visitors, perfectly blending functionality with coastal living.

The Grand Living Room: A Masterclass in Mixing Styles

Stepping through the front door of the Idea House, one immediately enters a large, expansive living room that commands attention. The interior designer, Lindsey Coral Harper, fearlessly embraced a philosophy of mixing things up, layering textures, and thoughtfully editing, all while incorporating both vintage and contemporary pieces. Her approach champions individuality, demonstrating that a truly personal home doesn’t require everything to be brand new; it thrives on a curated blend that feels inherently “you.”

Bright and airy living room with ample natural light and large windows at the Southern Living Idea House

The living room’s luminous ambiance is achieved through a pearly white ceiling paired with antique white walls and trim, creating a bright yet softly inviting atmosphere. The striking bronze-framed windows effectively ground the expansive space, drawing the eye and emphasizing the connection to the outdoors. When fully opened, these windows facilitate a magnificent cross-breeze, allowing fresh air to permeate the entire area, embodying the essence of coastal living.

Elegant dining table featuring vintage wicker seating, highlighting eclectic coastal design

Living room decor with vibrant coral and refreshing green accents, complementing neutral tones and reclaimed wood floors

Undoubtedly, the true centerpiece of this stunning living room is the magnificent reclaimed 12-inch wide plank pine flooring. Sourced from a tobacco company in Wilson, NC, this historical wood was treated minimally—receiving only a very light sanding followed by five coats of tung oil. The result is a floor that tells a story, showcasing its rich character and warm patina. This natural texture perfectly complements the neutral room, which is then enlivened by delightful pops of coral and green, harmonizing beautifully with a blend of dark and light furniture pieces.

The Innovative Kitchen: Where Function Meets Style

The living room seamlessly transitions into the kitchen, a space boasting several truly unique and innovative features. First, observe the artful mix of metals—a testament to modern design trends. Gone are the days of rigid matching; here, the ESSA Faucet in Venetian Bronze from Delta Faucet beautifully pairs with elegant gold cabinet and drawer pulls, demonstrating how diverse finishes can coexist harmoniously to create a rich, layered aesthetic.

The bi-fold kitchen window at the Southern Living Idea House, designed for easy indoor-outdoor entertaining

Second, and perhaps most striking, is the fantastic bi-fold window strategically positioned above the kitchen counter and sink. This ingenious Marvin window system truly elevates the kitchen’s functionality and connection to the outdoors.

Architect Eric Moser serving drinks through the innovative bi-fold kitchen window at the Southern Living Idea House — The house’s architect, Eric Moser, demonstrating the seamless entertaining possibilities through the bi-fold kitchen window.

This remarkable bi-fold window opens just like a drive-through, instantly inviting in a fresh breeze and effortlessly extending the entertaining space to the outdoor porch. It provides unparalleled convenience for serving guests and offers easy access to the outdoor grilling and serving station, making al fresco dining and socializing a seamless delight.

Outdoor porch decorated with a refreshing coral and green color scheme, perfect for coastal living

Outdoor bar area with the bi-fold window open, connecting the kitchen to the exterior entertaining space

When the festivities draw to a close, the bi-fold window simply slides shut, offering security and protection from the elements. Thoughtful locks on the inside ensure peace of mind, maintaining the home’s integrity while still providing that incredible connection to the outdoors when desired.

Kitchen decorating ideas from the Southern Living Idea House, showing a well-designed flow and style

Back inside the kitchen, the intelligent design continues with a clear, open flow from the functional butler’s pantry directly into the spacious living room. This arrangement facilitates seamless entertaining and everyday living, ensuring that every element of the home is both beautiful and practical. The cohesiveness of the design creates an inviting atmosphere for all.

Stylish subway tile backsplash ideas and stove top area in the Southern Living Idea House kitchen

While the elegant stovetop area and classic subway tile backsplash are certainly appealing, the true showstopper in this kitchen lies directly above the island. It’s an architectural feature that not only adds visual intrigue but also serves a very practical purpose, enhancing both the aesthetic and comfort of the space.

Open ceiling feature above the kitchen island in the Southern Living Idea House, connecting floors and aiding ventilation

Connecting Spaces: The Staircase and Second Floor

Above the kitchen island, a magnificent opening extends to the second floor. This intentional design choice serves a dual purpose: it adds significant architectural interest and creates a dramatic visual connection between levels, while also allowing heat from the kitchen to rise, helping to keep the first floor as cool and comfortable as possible, particularly welcome in the warm coastal climate.

Reclaimed pine wood staircase at the Southern Living Idea House, showcasing rustic charm and natural beauty

I’ll now take you upstairs via the fabulous staircase, a true work of art crafted from the same stunning reclaimed pine wood featured in the living room. Its rich character and sturdy construction are a beautiful focal point, guiding visitors between the floors with rustic elegance.

Painted leaf floor design on the second floor landing of the Southern Living Idea House 2017

Upon reaching the second floor, you are immediately greeted by an enchanting painted floor design that gracefully wraps around the ceiling opening, providing an intriguing visual link down to the kitchen below. This artistic detail adds a whimsical yet sophisticated touch, enhancing the home’s unique character and continuity.

Second floor landing at the Southern Living Idea House, overlooking the kitchen below through an architectural opening

The entire layout of the second floor, including its hallways and rooms, thoughtfully encircles this central opening. This design choice fosters a sense of connection and flow throughout the upper level, while simultaneously offering captivating glimpses of the activity below. It’s a clever way to integrate different living spaces.

View looking down into the kitchen from the second floor of the Southern Living Idea House on Bald Head Island

Pretty cool, right? This architectural decision truly enhances the sense of space and openness, making the home feel larger and more interconnected, a brilliant example of thoughtful design.

The Master Bathroom and the Ultimate Outdoor Shower

Another room that left an indelible impression on me was the master bathroom on the first floor. It immediately captivated me with its design, particularly its inviting and spacious open shower.

The luxurious master bath glass shower at the Southern Living Idea House 2017, showcasing elegant design

Expansive open shower in the master bath at the Southern Living Idea House, offering a spa-like experience

However, the large open shower, impressive as it is, isn’t even the most extraordinary feature of this room. Look closely at the exterior door on the right. This subtle detail reveals the true marvel of the space, a design element that perfectly embodies coastal luxury.

Private outdoor shower idea from the Southern Living Idea House on Bald Head Island, NC, perfect for beach living

That door leads to a private outdoor shower – a dream feature for any coastal home. Imagine rinsing off after a day at the beach under the open sky, surrounded by nature. This level of thoughtful design for island living is truly exceptional. I would absolutely love to incorporate something like this into my own home, someday!

Inspired Decorating Ideas from Every Room

The entire Idea House was a visual feast, offering a plethora of inspiring decorating ideas that I brought home with me. Among them, this cleverly painted hallway floor immediately caught my eye, showcasing a simple yet impactful way to add character and visual interest to transitional spaces.

Painted hallway floor ideas at the Southern Living Idea House, adding unique visual interest

Bathroom decorating ideas at the Southern Living Idea House, featuring a stylish green painted floor

This same playful painted design continues seamlessly into the adjacent bathroom, creating a cohesive and delightful visual theme that ties the spaces together. It’s a wonderful example of how custom floor treatments can personalize and elevate a room.

Vibrant coral and green bathroom decor, showcasing bold color and pattern use in the Idea House

The entire house was a masterclass in the bold and confident use of colors and patterns, evident in every single room. The designer’s willingness to embrace vibrant hues and diverse textures created spaces that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also imbued with a unique personality and dynamic energy, truly inspiring creativity.

Yellow and white bedroom decor with reclaimed flooring and subtle patterned wallpaper, offering a serene coastal feel

In the inviting yellow bedroom, more of the charming reclaimed flooring provides a warm foundation, complemented by a subtle yet attention-grabbing wallpaper. This delicate pattern adds depth and texture without overwhelming the senses, creating a serene and stylish retreat.

Yellow and white bedroom featuring a unique trimmed panel wall design at the Southern Living Idea House

The clever use of trimmed-out horizontal panels on the bottom half of the wall in this bedroom effectively prevents the wallpaper from dominating the space. This design choice creates a balanced aesthetic, adding architectural interest and allowing the pattern to enhance rather than overpower the room’s overall tranquility.

Decorating with grosgrain ribbon in a bathroom at the Southern Living Idea House, adding a pop of color

In another delightful bathroom, the designer wanted to add an extra punch of color after the initial decoration was complete. Her brilliant solution was to glue a vibrant yellow grosgrain ribbon around the edges of the wallpaper using Welbond Universal Adhesive. Ribbon is an incredibly affordable and versatile material, offering countless ways to decorate a room creatively and on a budget.

Yellow and marble bath at the Southern Living Idea House, featuring wicker fixtures and Delta Faucet bronze hardware

The charming wicker fixtures in this bathroom infuse a laid-back, vintage beachy vibe, perfectly complementing the coastal aesthetic. The elegant bronze shower fixtures, sink faucet, and towel bars, all from Delta Faucet, provide a sophisticated contrast, blending functionality with timeless style.

The Crofter bath at the Southern Living Idea House featuring a unique rope-hung mirror and Delta Faucet — A closer look at the elegant Cassidy Two Handle Widespread with Cross Taps in Polished Nickel Faucet by Delta Faucets, paired with a creative DIY mirror installation.

The Crofter bathroom presented yet another ingenious DIY idea that I believe you’ll appreciate. Faced with the challenge of no conventional space to mount a CB2 mirror, the designer brilliantly wrapped rope around it and suspended it using an antique pulley. This creative solution not only solved a practical problem but also added a unique, nautical-inspired touch to the space, enhancing its coastal charm.

Clever Storage Solutions: Maximizing Space

One more feature of the Idea House that I found incredibly intelligent was the architect’s approach to hallway design. Instead of wasted space, these transitional areas were transformed into highly functional storage zones. Behind these stylish rolling doors, a world of organized possibilities awaits.

Closed rolling door closet in the hallway of the Southern Living Idea House 2017, hinting at hidden storage

Once opened, these rolling barn doors reveal a surprisingly large and efficient storage area. This ingenious use of hallway space is a brilliant example of how thoughtful design can maximize functionality in every corner of a home, preventing clutter and promoting an organized lifestyle.

Open rolling door closet in the hallway of the Southern Living Idea House 2017, showcasing ample storage

I sincerely hope you’ve enjoyed this personal tour of the magnificent Southern Living Idea House through my eyes. Please remember, this is only a partial glimpse into its many splendors, focusing on the elements that most resonated with my sense of style and practicality.

Continue Your Exploration and Find Your Inspiration

To dive deeper and explore more photos of the rest of this incredible house, as well as to read detailed insights about the talented interior designer, builder, and architect behind its creation, I highly recommend checking out this comprehensive article on Southern Living.com. Alternatively, you can find the full feature in the August 2017 issue of Southern Living magazine. Both resources offer a wealth of additional inspiration and details that you won’t want to miss.

If any particular piece of furniture, fabric, fixture (especially the elegant Delta Faucet selections), or paint color used in the home sparked your interest, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below. I have access to a detailed list of resources and will do my absolute best to provide you with the information you’re seeking. Many of the unique furniture pieces, in keeping with the designer’s philosophy, are cherished vintage finds from her personal collection, adding to the home’s distinct character.