Discover how to design the perfect coastal kitchen for your custom Wilmington home. Learn expert tips on layouts, materials, and budgeting for style, function, and durability.

Discover why a builder’s profit is essential for a smooth, high-quality custom home build in Wilmington, NC. Learn how Tim Shellhammer’s decades of experience and The Shellhammer Group’s transparency protect your investment and ensure your dream home is done right.

Built on trust and experience, The Shellhammer Group in Wilmington, NC partners with local craftsmen to create homes that last.

Discover why building a custom home with The Shellhammer Group is the best investment. From personalized kitchens and bathrooms to custom additions and wine cellars, our trusted team delivers lasting quality and craftsmanship.

Discover how The Shellhammer Group builds luxury coastal homes that are resilient, sustainable, and timeless. Explore our approach to durable materials, energy efficiency, and expert craftsmanship along Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, and Figure Eight Island.

Discover why professional property maintenance is crucial for coastal homes. Learn how The Shellhammer Group helps homeowners protect their investment, maintain systems, and ensure their luxury coastal property stays beautiful and functional year-round.

Discover how The Shellhammer Group makes building a custom coastal home seamless and personal. From Wilmington to Figure Eight Island, we deliver quality, unique features, and exceptional service every step of the way.

Figure Eight Island has a unique history that shapes every home built along its shores. Originally a private retreat with untouched dunes and maritime forests, the island gradually transformed into one of North Carolina’s most exclusive residential communities. At The Shellhammer Group, we honor this legacy by blending thoughtful design with coastal resilience, creating homes that respect the island’s past while embracing modern living. A History Shaped by Visionaries Development on Figure Eight Island began in the mid-20th century, when families were drawn to its privacy, natural beauty, and ocean access. Among the early influences on coastal architecture here was the late Ligon Flynn, one of North Carolina’s most respected modernist architects. His vision for blending simplicity, light, and natural elements into coastal homes helped shape the island’s architectural identity. Our owner, Tim Shellhammer, knew Flynn personally and valued his friendship. Their conversations about design and coastal building continue to inspire the way we approach projects today. Carrying forward that spirit of thoughtful design, we aim to create homes that not only withstand the elements but also embrace the surrounding landscape. Design That Reflects the Island’s Legacy Homes on Figure Eight Island are meant to capture the essence of coastal living with welcoming porches, wide windows that frame the ocean, and open layouts that bring families together. At The Shellhammer Group, we collaborate with homeowners to design spaces that honor this tradition while meeting modern lifestyle needs. We also work to preserve the island’s natural beauty by incorporating existing vegetation and thoughtful landscaping into each project. Native plantings, maritime forest edges, and dune grasses are features we protect and highlight whenever possible, ensuring homes feel like part of the island rather than built on top of it. Homes That Tell Their Own Story Every home on Figure Eight Island is unique, designed to reflect the personality, lifestyle, and vision of its owners while respecting the island’s natural environment. At The Shellhammer Group, we take pride in crafting fully custom homes that are more than structures—they are living stories. From the orientation of windows to capture morning light and ocean breezes, to the preservation of existing trees and dune landscapes, each design decision is intentional. Interior layouts are tailored to how families live and gather, incorporating spaces for entertaining, relaxation, and cherished traditions. Even details like custom cabinetry, locally sourced materials, and architectural flourishes are selected to reflect the character of the homeowners and the history of the island. In essence, every home we build is one-of-a-kind, shaped by its surroundings and the people who inhabit it. This approach ensures that Figure Eight Island remains a tapestry of distinctive, enduring homes that blend seamlessly with the natural beauty and heritage of the coast. Materials That Endure The island’s environment demands construction that lasts. From hurricane-rated windows and doors to corrosion-resistant hardware, every choice is made with resilience in mind. Durable materials paired with timeless design ensure each home contributes to the island’s architectural legacy while standing strong for generations. Building Trust Alongside History For over 39 years, Tim Shellhammer has guided families through building and renovating homes on Figure Eight Island. Every project is approached with transparency, communication, and craftsmanship. Our work isn’t just about construction; it’s about carrying forward the history of an island and honoring the community that makes it special. Your Vision, Our Expertise Whether you are planning a custom waterfront home or a renovation that enhances your existing space, our team will guide you from concept to completion. With deep local roots, respect for the island’s natural beauty, and inspiration from leaders like Ligon Flynn, we ensure your home feels both timeless and enduring. Building on Figure Eight Island is part of a larger story, a story of visionaries, families, and craftsmen who believed this stretch of sand and sea was worth protecting and celebrating. The Shellhammer Group is proud to continue that story one home at a time.

Picture mornings with sunlight pouring through wide windows, afternoons spent grilling on a breezy porch, and evenings winding down to the gentle rhythm of the waves. Renovating a coastal home in Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, or Figure Eight Island is an opportunity to design around those everyday moments, blending elegance with functionality so your home reflects the lifestyle you have always imagined. Coastal-Specific Renovation Ideas Salt-Resistant Kitchens Materials that last: Granite or Quartzite countertops, marine-grade cabinet hardware, and sealed natural woods gleam in the sunlight while standing up to salt air and humidity. These materials ensure your kitchen remains beautiful and functional for years to come. Indoor-outdoor flow: Sliding or folding glass doors connect the kitchen to a deck or patio, allowing fresh breezes and natural light to fill the space. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying a morning coffee with ocean views. Built-in storage: Custom cabinetry keeps supplies organized for oyster roasts, sunset cocktails, or family gatherings, making your kitchen both stylish and practical. Reverse osmosis water systems: Provide clean, fresh-tasting water directly at the sink or fridge, offering convenience and peace of mind for coastal living. Spa-Style Bathrooms Built for Humidity Non-porous surfaces: Porcelain tile or sealed stone shine under soft lighting and resist moisture, protecting your investment and keeping maintenance low. Walk-in wet rooms: Rainfall showers allow you to rinse off after a day at the beach, blending luxury and functionality. Ventilation upgrades: Gentle airflow keeps the space fresh and prevents humidity damage. Outdoor showers: Rinse sand and saltwater before entering the home, keeping interiors clean and making post-beach routines effortless. Outdoor Living That Works Year-Round Screened or covered porches: Enjoy ocean breezes while being protected from sun, wind, or insects, making outdoor spaces usable throughout the day. Outdoor kitchens and grilling areas: Stainless steel exterior application appliances withstand salt air, allowing cooking and entertaining outdoors with ease. Durable decking: Composite or Marine Grade Hardwoods resist moisture and fading while providing a comfortable surface for bare feet. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connections Panoramic windows and bi-fold doors: Flood your home with natural light, bring in the scent of salt air, and provide sweeping beach views. These features make your home feel larger, brighter, and intimately connected to the coastal surroundings. Storm-Ready Features with Style Impact-rated windows and Hurricane Panels: Protect your home during storms while allowing sunlight and views to shine through. Metal, Wood, or architectural shingle roofing: Durable and visually appealing, designed to withstand coastal weather. Master Suites with a View Walls of windows: Capture sunrises or sunsets over the water, creating a serene retreat. Private decks: Step outside to feel the ocean breeze and hear the waves, making mornings feel like a vacation. Custom closets: Organize beach gear, flip-flops, and daily essentials to keep the space functional and clutter-free. Smart Home Integration Home automation systems: Adjust lighting, climate, and security from your phone, making coastal living more convenient. Automated window treatments: Filter sunlight or create shade with ease, protecting interiors and enhancing comfort. Coastal Character That Lasts Shiplap, tongue-and-groove ceilings: Add timeless charm that evokes classic beach cottages. Wide-plank floors: White oak or luxury vinyl plank handle sand, water, and high traffic while remaining warm and inviting underfoot. Nautical-inspired lighting and custom millwork: Give your home a distinct Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, or Figure Eight Island personality while reflecting your personal style. Coastal Must-Haves Durable, water-resistant flooring: Handles sand, water, and daily wear while maintaining beauty and comfort. Ample storage for coastal gear: Mudrooms, cubbies, and built-in closets keep the home organized and functional. Outdoor showers: Ideal for rinsing off after beach days, keeping the interior clean. Reverse osmosis water systems: Ensure fresh water for drinking and cooking. Screened porches or retractable panels: Expand your usable outdoor space in sun, wind, or bugs. Outdoor kitchens or grilling areas: Perfect for entertaining and enjoying the coastal lifestyle. Panoramic windows and bi-fold doors: Maximize light, views, and indoor-outdoor flow. Impact-rated doors and Hurricane Shutters: Protect your home while maintaining aesthetics. Smart home systems: Automate lighting, climate, security, and window treatments for convenience and comfort. Why It Matters A coastal renovation does more than enhance beauty. Thoughtful design and durable materials ensure your home is resilient, functional, and perfectly suited to life by the water. Every feature contributes to a home where everyday moments, whether a quiet morning on the deck, a lively beach day, or family gatherings, feel effortless and enjoyable. Experience You Can Trust With over 39 years of experience, The Shellhammer Group has transformed homes across Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, and Figure Eight Island into coastal retreats that endure and delight. We balance style, durability, and function to create homes that enhance both your lifestyle and your investment. Ready to Transform Your Coastal Home? Contact us today and let’s bring your vision to life .