A) In General... Hilton Head homes typically have one-level floor plans with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and at least two-car garages. The third bedroom is often used as a den. There are countless variations to this plan that is popular with families and retirement couples. Living rooms and master bedrooms are typically at the back of the house where residents enjoy views of golf courses, lagoons, marshes and the ocean. Larger homes have a living room and a family room and some have ‘bonus’ rooms over the garages for use as bedrooms, game rooms or home theaters. Newer generation homes have their dining rooms next to the front foyer and open to the living room to form a grand central living area. Fireplaces are optional in this climate but are included in most Hilton Head living rooms. There are no basements in Hilton Head Island homes because the area water table is only 6-7 feet below ground. Attics provide most homes with the largest storage areas and water heaters are often located in attics. 
 
B) The Hilton Head Home Kitchen and Family Room...Most Hilton Head kitchens have an ‘eat-in’ area. Larger homes have family rooms that are separated from the kitchen by a breakfast bar to create a large, informal and open living area. The family room is at the back of the house so that residents can enjoy the view. Countertops are made of granite or corian and there is often a large, center island. Some kitchens have built-in desks. Floors are most often tiled but sometimes are wood or limestone. Most appliances are electric but some owners prefer gas or propane ranges. Kitchen commonly have built-in microwave and double ovens, double stainless steel sinks, large pantries and sometimes a wine cooler. 
 
C) The Hilton Head Master Bathroom and Bedroom...Master bedrooms are most often located on the first floor of homes at the back of the house for privacy and the view. The master bathroom has his and her vanities with granite, corian or cultured marble countertops, walk-in shower and separate spa tub. Skylights are featured in many bathrooms. Floors and shower surrounds are typically tile, limestone or cultured marble. His and her walk-in closets can be spacious with cabinetry and serve as dressing areas. 
 
D) Outside Living and Recreation... Residents enjoy outdoor patios, wood decks, screened porches and Carolina rooms all year long. Carolina rooms are screened porches with glass panels that open and close. They typically connect to the family room and then to the back deck or patio. Many swimming pools have heated spas and some have screened enclosures. Homes with low country lanais have enclosed swimming pools, porches and grille areas combined. Vegetable gardening is prohibited except in communities where common area garden plots are available for lease: Sea Pines, Long Cove and Hilton Head Plantation.