Peek Inside an Easy-Breezy Lowcountry Cottage

Sometimes the most inviting houses are the simple ones—particularly at the beach. The ones that get the bones right and let nature shine by leaning into the airiness of white paint. And that’s exactly what the designer Hill Rondero, of Charlotte’s Ro House Studio, had in mind for the spot on Folly Beach that she renovated for her own family of five. 

Built in 1946, the property sits on Arctic Avenue, across the street from beach access. “It was quaint with a lot of character,” Rondero says. “Inside however, things were a little wonky. But the house has warmth, and we wanted to preserve that feeling.” To do so, they opted for white-painted floors, an open plan, an added bunk room and bathroom, and such details as timeless Shaker cabinetry in the kitchen. The vintage-inspired SMEG refrigerator also boosts the charm.

Rondero’s favorite addition is by far the new chimney, hearth, and free-standing Malm fireplace. “We burn a fire every single evening,” she says. “Even in the summer!”

Most days start on the front porch, though. “My husband always gets up before me and takes the dogs for a walk on the beach. When he gets back, we just sit, sip, and wait for the rest of the house to wake up.”