The beauty of Brays Island lives in the natural landscaping of the South Carolina lowcountry with salt marshes, tidal creeks, age old live oaks and lush fields. Beyond the premier sporting pursuits, this tends to be what attracts Owners to build a home and a life at Brays—the commitment to land preservation and conservation.
With a limited number of homes and homesites, 90% of Brays Island will remain in its natural state. It was the goal of the original owner of Brays, Sumner Pingree, to preserve the land and strategically develop it in a way that allows Owners to live in harmony with nature. To do so, he partnered with world-renowned land planner and landscape architect, Robert Marvin. Together they collaborated on the layout, road map, amenity buildings, and real estate lots in the community.
Part of the plan was to only allow for 325 one-acre circular lots where one never touches another, allowing for ample privacy and appreciation for the natural surroundings. Lots were carefully planned throughout the 5,500 acres so Owners can build their dream home overlooking whichever amenity they prefer—horse paddocks, salt marshes and rivers or golf greens. The lush natural landscape provides privacy in and of itself, but that is one requirement Brays Architectural Review Board (ARB) is stringent on—screening.
Each of the building requirements address the maintenance of the natural setting, which is the heart of Brays Island. From the color of the homes to the natural screening surrounding each home, the goal is when you drive down a road here, all you’ll see of each property is the stone grey driveaway. Screening, meaning the native trees and shrubs that surround the home and provide a “screen” to the road, is the number one requirement. Other requirements include paint colors of the exterior of the home, roof colors, lighting, hardscapes and keeping within the 1-acre circular homesite.
Many homes reflect the architectural traditions of the coastal South, while others draw inspiration from diverse styles of architecture, which is part of the appeal of building at Brays Island - There are no cookie-cutter homes here.
Throughout the process of planning and construction, the ARB will conduct seven reviews, four of them taking place prior to the start of construction. From topographical surveying of the lot, to tree markings and screening reviews, logistical construction planning and the final review approval, the process can move as quickly or leisurely as you desire. Our ARB consists of a team of Owners and experts including consultants with extensive experience at Brays Island. Maintaining the integrity of the land and its history is of utmost importance.
Since there’s no time requirement to build, you can take your time in designing and building the home of your dreams. Have a look through the available homes and homesites so you can find your next home and start living.