Shell Cottage - 1965 to Today

In 1965, Oak Island, NC was a quiet, largely undeveloped barrier island just beginning to attract attention as a coastal retreat. Here's a snapshot of what life looked like back then:

A Simpler Shoreline

• The island was home to two small      towns: Long Beach and Yaupon Beach, both incorporated in the 1950s      following the devastation of Hurricane Hazel in 1954, which left only five      buildings standing on the west end.
• Most homes were modest beach      cottages — many built in the 1960s — including Shell Cottage, which dates      to that era. These were often single-story, wood-framed structures with      open porches and sandy yards.

Limited Access

• The only way to reach Oak Island was via a swing bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway. This bridge was later destroyed in 1971 and replaced by the Barbee Bridge in 1975.
• Roads were sparse and mostly unpaved. The layout of neighborhoods and streets was still evolving, as shown in historic maps from the 1960s.

Coastal Culture

• The island had a laid-back, small-town vibe. Residents and visitors enjoyed fishing, fox hunting, and beachcombing.
• There were few commercial establishments — maybe a general store, a bait shop, and a handful of diners — but no major grocery chains or resorts.

Maritime Legacy

• Oak Island’s proximity to Southport and the Cape Fear River meant it was steeped in maritime history. Fort Caswell, built in the 1800s, still stood watch over the eastern tip of the island.

Shell Cottage, built in 1965, would have been part of this early wave of beach homes — a symbol of post-Hazel resilience and the growing appeal of Oak Island as a family-friendly getaway.

Fast forward to 2025

Originally built in 1965, Shell Cottage has been lovingly reimagined by designer Christa Buchanan of Salisbury Home Design, blending timeless charm with intentional comfort. Christa Buchanan’s design brings a fresh, coastal aesthetic to Shell Cottage — think soft textures, natural light, and curated touches that make every corner feel like home. Whether you're sipping coffee on the porch or winding down after a beach day, the space is crafted to inspire rest and connection.

Frequently asked questions:

Question: Was the art purchased locally?

Answer: Yes….And No. Christa is always on the lookout for the right piece. Shell Cottage is decorated with art from as close as down the street in some of the amazing antique shops of Southport and as far away as England.

Question: What color white was used on the walls and ceiling?

Answer: When discussing color, Christa does not specify a single answer. For Shell Cottage’s “white” selection, 17 different shades of white samples were put up and considered. Factors such as the house’s orientation and the lighting influence how each color appears. The shade ultimately chosen was Sherwin Williams’ Greek Villa SW 7551 | White Paint Colors | Sherwin-Williams.

Question: What color was used on the walls of the primary bath?

Answer: It is a custom color mix based upon the Farrow & Ball De Nimes color. De Nimes No.299 | Sample Pot | Handcrafted Paint | Farrow & Ball.