Discover Kiawah River: A Personal Journey with Luxury and Lowcountry Allure
Imagine a day spent alongside my friend, fellow entrepreneur, networking marketing guru, and Seint beauty artist Heather Burge. I met Heather at her mother’s house in Kiawah River, and over coffee, she helped me streamline my daily makeup routine as a busy working mama. I am so grateful for Heather’s advice about all things beauty and business and enjoyed spending the morning with her so much.
However, a surprise awaited me on this day—meeting Heather’s lovely mother, Lee Burton, and exploring the nooks and crannies of Kiawah River from her perspective as a resident. As we scooted through this hidden waterfront gem in her dreamy custom Bronco, Kiawah River revealed itself in a personal and enchanting way, unveiling its secrets and showcasing its exceptional features. Lee showed me the prettiest houses (yes, they are all white), and she walked me through the amazing Spring House waterfront amenities.
I can’t imagine a more perfect vehicle.
The rear of the Spring House at Kiawah River.
A cozy little corner of the Spring House at Kiawah River
A spot for residents to gather inside the Spring house at Kiawah River
View of the pool, the Kiawah River, and then Kiawah Island from the Pelotons at the Spring House
Favorite combination - a coastal white house with the perfect blue shutters
Eager to delve deeper into this enchanting waterfront gem, I made an appointment with Chris Drury, the dedicated broker-in-charge of Kiawah River, for a follow-up tour. Last week, I met with Chris, and what I got was so much more than a tour—it was an invitation to witness Kiawah River's story unfold firsthand, revealing its genuine character and exceptional features.
Chris shared tales of one young resident's fishing adventure, where this spirited boy reeled in an impressive 35 fish in a single day. I had the pleasure of meeting Missy, the down-to-earth co-owner at The Goatery, as her truck became the center of attention for the playful goats eagerly anticipating their tasty treats. Engaging with the construction manager from Dillard-Jones, one of the builders at Kiawah River, shed light on a special project home he is meticulously overseeing.
During my visit, I stepped into three remarkable custom homes available for purchase—The Labrador by Dolphin Builders, The Navigator by New Leaf Builders, and The Magnolia by Delpino Custom Homes. (See plans and more information here.) Chris graciously dedicated his time, imparting insights into the development's rich history, intricately tied to esteemed partners like The Beach Company, McNair Interests, and the Limehouse family, who raised cattle for over four decades on this land.
It became clear to me just how deeply Kiawah River is intertwined with the community. Beyond the breathtaking farming aspects, the community is alive with collaboration. For example, current and former students from the (local) American College of the Building Arts have contributed their creativity to design The Hall, a new wedding venue and an integral part of The Dunlin by Auberge Resorts.
In addition to the experiences that made my day at Kiawah River truly memorable, here are some other facts and things that stood out to me about the community:
A Tapestry of Nature and Lifestyle
Stretching over 2000 acres of picturesque property, Kiawah River is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between luxury and nature. Nestled along the waterfront, this community is an oasis of resort-style amenities and natural wonders, harmoniously coexisting to offer a lifestyle that's truly extraordinary.
Resort-Style Amenities
The heart of Kiawah River beats with resort-style amenities. The Spring House, a riverfront pool and fitness facility, invite you to immerse yourself in moments of relaxation, casual gatherings, or even a friendly game of mahjong. The community pier, boat ramp, and planned sports park with tennis and pickleball courts ensure there's always something to keep you engaged.
Outdoor Paradise
Kiawah River is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With 20 miles of natural trails meandering through maritime forests and along the waterfront, every day is an invitation to explore. Be it fishing, bird watching, or simply embracing the beauty of the forest, marsh, and lagoon views, this community offers a diverse array of activities.
Architectural Excellence: An Ode to Coastal Design
As a real estate agent with a keen eye for architectural aesthetics, the Kiawah River Architect and Builder Guilds immediately stood out to me. These esteemed guilds, comprising renowned architects from Charleston and the Southeast region, have meticulously curated architectural guidelines, ensuring each home is a masterpiece that adds to, rather than detracts, from the natural beauty that is the Lowcountry. At Kiawah River, the architectural standards are a testament to innovation and coastal design at its pinnacle. Mostly detached single-family homes with a few townhouses, each residence impeccably integrates with the surrounding landscape, setting the stage for a harmonious blend of luxury and nature.
Whether you’re looking to build a custom home on a lot of your choice, or you’re looking for something more turnkey, the ARB at Kiawah River has you covered. For the discerning homeowner seeking a unique custom abode, the Architectural Review Board will provide a set of Kiawah River Design Guidelines. These guidelines, rooted in innovation, are a blueprint to transform your vision into a home that mirrors your taste and personality.
Alternatively, for a more turnkey solution without compromising luxury or aesthetics, Kiawah River offers a selection of pre-approved plans. These plans maintain the community's architectural essence while providing convenience and elegance.
Along with the staff at Kiawah River, I can help you understand the available options for your home.
Chris Drury and I bonded over a shared love of the marsh, and he passed along something to me that I want to share with you: “People move here (to the Lowcountry and Charleston) for the beach, but they stay for the marsh.”
Whether you’re moving here for the southern lifestyle and hospitality, for work, or to just be close to the beach, I hope you’ll put Kiawah River on your shortlist. I bet the marsh will capture you in its spell and will convince you to stay here forever.
As always, contact me if you’d like more information. I’ll also be uploading some video shorts to my YouTube channel.
