When Charles Fraser developed what we now think of as modern-day Hilton Head Island, his vision was to create a community that blended into nature and harmonized with the forested land. The original 1960s “Hilton Head Look” architecture incorporates elements such as wood shingles, wide overhang eaves, cypress siding, and colors that blend with the bark of the pines. While seen as contemporary at the time, this look can now be thought of as dated. So, how can the island’s architecture evolve while still incorporating the original style?

Hammerhead Custom Builders has accomplished modern design with three different types of projects. Seen on the next few pages, these projects represent a fresh new look of architecture and style that will carry Hilton Head properties into the future.

Completely Contemporary Custom-Built Home

On the exterior, the cool gray concrete and soft taupe siding remain in the Sea Pines color palette while the large windows and sliding doors pay homage to elements popular in late 1970s HHI architecture while repeated use of horizontal lines epitomize modern design. Inside, sleek lines and minimal ornamentation throughout combined with synthetic, metallic, and organic materials create a home that is contemporary yet inviting.

Traditional Outside and Modern Interior Twins

These two side-by-side North Forest Beach rental homes mirror each other’s design. The exteriors remain in a coastal style to blend into the neighborhood and pops of color foreshadow the modern interior decoration. The finishes and furniture are simple and repeated throughout the home to create a cohesive and cool retreat.

1970 Sea Pines Cottage Fresh Remodel

The exterior of the cottage was altered to provide more living space but remained in the original Fraser vision with rough sawn cypress siding in the original stain. Coffered tongue and groove ceilings set against reflective flat cabinetry mixed with horizontal lines and soft furnishings perfectly encapsulate the contemporary cottage aesthetic.