Inside The Brightwater Model Home on Lake Keowee
Where luxury living meets thoughtful design in Upstate South Carolina.
Introduction
Designing a custom home is about more than selecting finishes; it’s about crafting spaces that reflect a lifestyle. That philosophy is at the heart of every AR Homes® Greenville (American Eagle Builders) project, and it comes to life beautifully in the Brightwater model home. At the center of this vision is Kirsten Gilliam, AR Homes® Interiors lead designer, who brings over two decades of expertise in creating timeless interiors with a tailored, client-first approach.
In this feature, we take a room-by-room tour of the Brightwater model, highlighting our team’s personal insights.
Foundational Thoughts: The Brightwater Model Home
Set within the scenic Lake Keowee community, the Brightwater offers 5,486 sq ft of refined living space with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, a club room, a three-car garage, and expansive indoor-outdoor entertaining areas. The home is designed to balance openness and intimacy, a guiding principle Kirsten brings to life through her interior selections.
Kirsten’s Take – “There is usually one element that serves as a launchpad for a room or space. While working on other projects, I usually see items that catch my eye and think about how I would love to use that at some point. Models often serve as the perfect landing spot for those items that I cannot shake out of my mind.”
The Great Room & Kitchen: Elegant Utility
The heart of the Brightwater model lies in its spacious great room and chef-inspired kitchen. Two-story ceilings and expansive glass doors welcome in natural light, while neutral tones and layered textures maintain a warm, grounded ambiance. The kitchen blends beauty with function, offering a generous island, high-end appliances, and a seamless transition into the prep kitchen—ideal for hosting and day-to-day ease.
Melissa’s Take – “I like the casually refined dining area. It’s bathed in natural light, with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the line between indoors and out. Adjacent to the dining space, a sleek wet bar features floating shelves for stylish display, complemented by ample cabinetry and drawers that offer both form and function. Just beyond, a dedicated wine room showcases a curated collection with floating shelves and custom racks. This part of the home is perfect for entertaining or unwinding in style.”
Owner’s Suite: A Private, Spa-Like Escape
Tucked on the main level, the owner’s suite was designed as a true retreat. The soft color palette, natural materials, and warm lighting create a serene atmosphere. A feature fireplace anchors the room while the spa bathroom includes a striking wet room with freestanding tub, dual showers, and refined fixtures.
Alexis’s Take – “The fireplace isn’t just a design element—it creates a natural focal point that grounds the room, adding a sense of intimacy and calm. The bathroom is a true sanctuary that brings resort-level indulgence to everyday life. Every detail feels intentional, transforming daily routines into moments of relaxation and escape.”
Lower Level: Designed for Gathering
The lower level is a study in entertainment-driven design. A club room and wet bar encourage connection, while the adjacent lake room opens to a covered porch with fireplace—bringing indoor comfort to outdoor living. A private guest suite ensures overnight guests feel at home without sacrificing privacy.
Betsy’s Take – “My favorite feature is the indoor/outdoor wet bar on the lower level. With the large awning window to bring the outdoors in, guests can sit outside or inside while enjoying the beautiful view of the lake. It is a great place to entertain while at the lake with plenty of seating for your guests. Equipped with an undercounter refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher making it very efficient.”
Special Touches & Signature Spaces
From the wine room and prep kitchen to the carefully curated lighting fixtures, every square foot of the Brightwater serves a purpose. Kirsten and her team select materials not just for beauty, but for livability—including performance fabrics, durable surfaces, and timeless hardware that will age with grace.
Kirsten’s Take – “While each space may be initially inspired by one item, the trick to a seamless design is figuring out how best to blend all spaces. Especially in a home with an open concept, such as the Brightwater. I feel that it is the subtle elements of consistency, such as cabinet profile, paint colors, decor, etc. that help the spaces flow for a cohesive look.”
From Plan to Personal
AR Homes® Greenville (American Eagle Builders) clients benefit from a robust plan library that serves as a launching point—but customization is at the core of the experience. With Kirsten’s team and 3D virtual design technology, clients can explore layouts, finishes, and furnishings in a photorealistic environment before construction begins.
Bringing the Vision Home
Designing a custom home is a deeply personal journey. Through the Brightwater model, Kirsten demonstrates how thoughtful interiors can elevate a home’s architecture and reflect the lives lived within. Whether you’re seeking lakefront luxury, timeless style, or both—this model is a stunning place to start.
Ready to see Brightwater in person or begin designing your custom home? Visit our model, explore a 3D virtual tour, or schedule a design consultation today.
AR Homes® Greenville (American Eagle Builders) proudly serves Greenville, Lake Keowee, and The Cliffs communities with fixed-cost pricing, luxury craftsmanship, and a commitment to service that feels personal.