Peachy the Magazine June July 2014 | Page 27

INTERIORS Soul Surfing An Idyllic Isle of Palms Retreat Cathy Austin PHOTOGRAPHY BY Peter Frank Edwards WRITTEN BY T There is something indescribably alluring about the atmosphere in Charleston and its surrounding Lowcountry that has attracted creative and adventurous spirits since 1670. It is no wonder the English colonists decided to settle in this spectacular seaside locale nearly 350 years ago. The Historical Society describes Charleston, “A Great City is like a tapestry—their history, character and individuality are the fabric from which they are woven.” This tempting tapestry is precisely what lured homeowner Alex Opoulos as well as interior designer Cortney Bishop to the Charleston area. Alex grew up in Newport Beach, California, and moved to Isle of Palms in 1994 to be closer to his mother. Originally an Atlanta, Georgia native, Cortney had moved to Sullivan’s Island with her husband in 2005 after graduating from the University of Georgia’s School of Business. She had grown up spending her summers at Kiawah Island and always knew she would one day come back. The client and designer met through Alex’s wife, Monica, who shared the same close circle of friends as Cortney. The designer is best known for her multilayered philosophy that combines her love of art, fashion and interiors. Eight-year-old Max ready to hit the beach in search of his next wave. JUNE JULY 2014 25