Nestled on the pristine sands of South Forest Beach on Hilton Head Island, 9 Bayberry Lane is a property that bridges the gap between history and contemporary design. This architectural gem stands as a testament to sustainable construction and refined coastal living – a harmonious blend of centuries-old, reclaimed materials and modern luxury amenities. Proudly owned by technology visionary Greg White from Atlanta, the home’s story is one of passion, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the past.
Built by Tom Banach, Interiors by Greta Fox, Listed by Liam Cronin, Real Estate Advisor, Team Leader of The Lowcountry Group at Engel & Völkers
Constructed in 2019 by Tom Banach, the home was conceived as an experimental project that sought to marry historical significance with cutting-edge design. In a market where new construction is often synonymous with uniformity, the property distinguishes itself by incorporating more than 75% reclaimed materials into its very fabric.
“It’s the story behind every reclaimed piece that truly sets this home apart,” Cronin said.
Banach sourced slow-growth woods from the old Savannah River wall and incorporated reclaimed stone tiles imported from India. He even deconstructed barns from the 1800s in Pennsylvania and Ohio, selecting the finest slates from aged roofs to adorn the siding and interior walls of the home.
“These materials aren’t just decorative; they’re tangible links to a time when craftsmanship was revered,” Cronin said.
The authenticity of the reclaimed wood – complete with visible axe marks and the subtle patina of age – imbues every room with history and character, ensuring that 9 Bayberry Lane is truly one of a kind.
Constructed in 2019 by Tom Banach, the home was conceived as an experimental project that sought to marry historical significance with cutting-edge design.
Interiors that echo a storied past
Inside, the home sprawls over 3,600 heated square feet, with a total of 4,000 square feet of living space designed to captivate and inspire. The layout is both expansive and intimate, inviting residents and guests to experience the seamless blend of Old World charm and modern sophistication. Every corner of the interior is a carefully curated narrative of reclaimed artistry.
Unique design elements abound throughout. The interior boasts five well-appointed bedrooms (each with an en suite bath), including two luxurious primary suites, making for uncompromised comfort and privacy. In one of the guest bedrooms, flooring reclaimed from the Savannah River wall is showcased as a striking wall feature, its original metal fastenings still visible as a vivid reminder of its storied past.
Along the stairwell, hand-hewn slate tiles, once part of a barn roof in Amish country, add a rustic yet refined touch. A massive piece of koa wood from South America, prominently displayed as guests ascend the stairs, hints at the global journey of materials that define this unique residence.
Modern amenities are seamlessly woven into the historic fabric of the home. State-of-the-art appliances, LED lighting throughout, and an advanced media room on the third floor (outfitted with blackout curtains), and electric blinds throughout the home, ensure that while the bones of the home echo the past, its pulse beats with modern sophistication.
This boardwalk is a signature feature of the property, giving residents exclusive access to the sandy shores of South Forest Beach.
Coastal living meets architectural ingenuity
The home’s allure extends beyond its walls, embracing outdoor living with the same dedication to sustainability and luxury. The exterior, too, celebrates reclaimed materials, featuring barn pieces and fossil stone tiles that continue the narrative begun indoors.
At the heart of the outdoor living area is a fully equipped kitchen. Complete with a grill, built-in refrigerator, and ample counter space, the kitchen is designed to accommodate both casual family meals and sophisticated entertaining. Adjacent lies a resort-style pool and spa area, a refreshing escape from the heat that invites relaxation and leisure.
“No expense was spared in creating an outdoor experience that rivals any high-end resort,” Cronin said.
The exterior, too, celebrates reclaimed materials, featuring barn pieces and fossil stone tiles that continue the narrative begun indoors.
Adding further to the outdoor experience is an inviting shower and a unique sitting area designed to provide a quiet retreat from the sun. A screened-in porch, which has quickly become a favorite among visitors, offers uninterrupted views of the private boardwalk that leads directly to the beach. This boardwalk is a signature feature of the property, giving residents exclusive access to the sandy shores of South Forest Beach.
Above the porch, a crow’s nest sunbathing area and a cozy fire pit create spaces designed for both relaxation and social gatherings. Additionally, the property features a deep four-car garage and a spacious private laundry room, underscoring the meticulous attention to modern conveniences without compromising charm.
While the aesthetic appeal is undeniable, its engineering prowess is equally impressive. The property’s build envelope has been meticulously engineered to offer superior energy efficiency and resilience against the coastal elements.
“I have slept through some pretty wicked storms and always woken up to a dry house. The build envelope is truly incredible,” homeowner White said.
Modern amenities are seamlessly woven into the historic fabric of the home.
Every modern detail – from energy-efficient lighting to an advanced climate control system – has been optimized to ensure that the home performs at the highest level while minimizing environmental impact. This commitment to energy efficiency is particularly significant in a coastal setting, where the interplay of sun, sea, and wind can present unique challenges. The result is a home that not only exudes beauty and sophistication but also offers peace of mind and long-term durability.
Light floods into the home in the main dining area.
A celebration of community and coastal culture
Despite its location on one of the busiest beaches in the area, the property offers a rare sense of seclusion and tranquility. Surrounded by dozens of majestic live oaks and other indigenous flora, the estate is enveloped in a natural beauty that is both calming and inspiring.
“The maritime forest surrounding this home was relatively untouched, except for the home’s footprint,” White said. “The way the view corridor was opened up here is nothing short of brilliant. It feels like walking through a living gallery every day.”
Wildlife plays an integral role in the property’s character. White tells of encounters with deer that roam freely across the estate and the daily spectacle of pelicans soaring along the coastline.
“It’s not just a house – it’s a living, breathing ecosystem,” he said.
Every modern detail – from energy-efficient lighting to an advanced climate control system – has been optimized to ensure that the home performs at the highest level while minimizing environmental impact.
This natural vibrancy creates a dynamic backdrop that transforms with the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers a fresh perspective.
A critical component of 9 Bayberry Lane’s transformation is the creative vision of interior designer Greta Fox. Although the home was initially acquired in its “as is” state, Fox was instrumental in uniting the eclectic mix of reclaimed materials with contemporary furnishings. Her work has elevated the property’s interior design to an art form that balances vintage charm with modern sophistication.
“Greta truly pulled it all together for us,” White said.
The interiors now reflect a balanced interplay between history and innovation, where every color, texture, and piece of furniture has been chosen to enhance the overall narrative of the home.
“Every space, every detail, feels intentional and part of the larger story of this house,” Cronin said, highlighting the seamless integration of creative vision and practical design.
A rare opportunity in a competitive market
In today’s competitive real estate landscape, finding a property that marries historical authenticity with modern luxury is an uncommon occurrence. This is not your typical beachfront home; it is a meticulously crafted work of art that offers an exceptional blend of sustainability, heritage, and innovation.
“There’s nowhere else quite like it,” Cronin said. “This isn’t your run-of-the-mill beach house; it’s a living piece of art that tells a story of transformation and legacy.”
For prospective buyers, the property presents an opportunity not only to own a remarkable home but also to become a part of a storied legacy. Every reclaimed beam and hand-carved tile reflects the creative vision and dedication that have gone into making this residence so unique.
9 Bayberry is a harmonious blend of centuries-old, reclaimed materials and modern luxury amenities.
The integration of modern conveniences and energy-efficient engineering further enhances its appeal, positioning 9 Bayberry Lane as a true investment in both lifestyle and sustainability. From its inception as a daring experiment in reclaimed construction to its evolution into a luxurious coastal retreat, every facet of the property is imbued with a sense of purpose and artistry.
“This home tells a story of transformation – of embracing the old while innovating for the future,” Cronin said. “It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of art that is as functional as it is beautiful.” His words resonate with anyone who steps through the doors of this unique space, inviting them to experience a home where history, modernity, and community converge.
Adding further to the outdoor experience is an inviting shower and a unique sitting area designed to provide a quiet retreat from the sun.
For buyers in search of a residence that defies convention, a home that offers direct beachfront access while narrating a compelling story through its design, 9 Bayberry Lane represents an unparalleled opportunity. The property’s rare combination of reclaimed materials and modern luxury makes it a standout in Hilton Head’s competitive real estate market. Ultimately, this is not merely a beachfront property; this home is a beacon for those who appreciate art, history, and the refined pleasures of coastal living.
As the next chapter unfolds, prospective buyers are invited to experience firsthand the unmatched beauty and ingenuity of this residence, where every detail tells a story and every space celebrates the fusion of the past with the promise of the future. It remains a living, breathing work of art, poised to welcome its new owners into a legacy of luxury, innovation, and community.
