There are houses that are beautiful and then there are houses that are beautiful and also make you feel beautiful.
That’s the case with the majestic home at 120 South Shore Circle in John’s Island; it has that unique double quality of satisfying the aesthetic and functional qualities of a well-built home, as well as making you feel incredible when you’re inside of it, or anywhere on its sprawling lawn, patio or dock.
Watching his houseguest enjoy the lovely breezes and endlessly gorgeous scenery surrounding this stunning property on the Intracoastal Waterway, owner Rick McDermott says, “My sister-in-law is standing on the back lawn and taking in the view. I take it for granted sometimes. It’s like if you’re in New York and you take the Statue of Liberty for granted.”
McDermott and wife, Laura, have accrued wonderful memories over the years in their John’s Island home, which they purchased in 1998 and did major renovations to shortly thereafter. Still, it’s time to downsize, and the house is listed with John’s Island Real Estate Company for $6,990,000.
The 11,800-gross-square-foot property with 4 bedrooms, 5 full baths, and 2 half-baths sits on a .93-acre lot. It was designed by well-known architect George F. Bollis and built in 1990. A Ludawucci concrete tile roof was installed in 2006 and a new dock and lift in 2012. A gas-heated pool with spa, two gas fireplaces – in the living room and family room –Mexican tile floors, cabana, 3-car garage, steam shower in master and east guest bedroom and an ultra-high quality sound system are added amenities.
The house would be powerfully impressive even without all the luxurious amenities.
“Location, location, location,” said McDermott. “I don’t know that there’s a better location on John’s Island.”
There is little traffic near the house, which is situated on a cul de sac. When their two children were younger and wanting to ride their bikes, there wasn’t a lot of worry about cars going back and forth. The location also is convenient to everything at John’s Island – the fitness center, pool, golf courses and clubhouses.
“It’s remote on one hand, but there is easy access to everything John’s Island has to offer,” McDermott said.
Bob Gibb, broker/owner of John’s Island Real Estate Company echoed a similar sentiment about 120 South Shore Circle being a prime location. “Being on a double cul de sac and having one of the broadest views on the water make it one of the top houses at John’s Island,” he said. “It has great outside living, great views from the master balcony and has a classic design.
“There is not another one like it on John’s Island,” Gibb added.
Rising two levels from a lovely site on the shores of the Intracoastal Waterway, this beautifully renovated residence is an island-inspired jewel that showcases exceptional water views from nearly every room. Lushly landscaped gardens, custom millwork and cypress-coffered beamed ceilings add character and warmth to the retreat. The wood-paneled living room with fireplace, custom built-ins and wet bar opens onto the generous lanai, creating one expansive yet cohesive space that is perfect for entertaining.
“Whether we are two or four people in the house, or we have a reception for 75 people, the house works well both ways,” McDermott said.
A bright and airy family room with fireplace adjoins the large gourmet, island kitchen with breakfast bar.
Two private en suite guest bedrooms grace the main level along with an attached guest cabana with kitchenette, full bath, storage and covered porch.
The entire upper level is dedicated to the luxurious master suite with private balcony overlooking sweeping treetop views of the river, a spacious study with built-ins, an exercise room and marble-appointed bathroom featuring a steam shower, two custom vanities and walk-in closets.
“We love to have coffee or a glass of wine on our veranda just watching sailboats go by or seeing schools of dolphins going back and forth,” said McDermott.
“Here comes a yacht down the river now … the scenery changes every couple of minutes!”
Members of John’s Island for 33 years, the couple has enjoyed time at home as well as participating in club activities.
“John’s Island keeps everything current,” McDermott observed. “I walk into the clubhouse, the golf clubhouse, and it all looks terrific,” he said. “Everything they do is first class.”
