Explore Southern Shores Through the Historic Flat Top Cottage Tour

News Summary

On April 27, 2024, Southern Shores hosted its 6th Annual Historic Flat Top Cottage Tour, attracting nearly 1,000 attendees eager to explore 14 unique cottages designed by Frank Stick. Visitors experienced a blend of nostalgia and modern comforts as they toured these charming homes, some untouched since the 1950s. Highlighted by the impressive ‘Seaquel’ cottage, the event aimed to promote awareness and preserve the architectural heritage of Southern Shores while benefiting the Outer Banks Community Foundation.

Discover the Charm of Southern Shores Through Historic Flat Top Cottages

Southern Shores rolled out the welcome mat for its 6th Annual Historic Flat Top Cottage Tour on a bright and sunny Saturday, April 27, 2024. With nearly 1,000 enthusiastic attendees exploring the architectural wonders of days gone by, it was a day brimming with fun, nostalgia, and, of course, a touch of history.

Step Back in Time

This year’s tour showcased a remarkable collection of 14 flat top cottages penned by the talented artist and developer Frank Stick. These homes, now admired for their unique aesthetics, were once bustling summer havens for families. Attendees had the unique opportunity to wander through an array of cottages—some remained untouched since their inception in the 1950s, while others have undergone thoughtful renovations to maintain their original charm while embracing modern comforts.

The Star of the Show

Among these architectural gems, the standout cottage was undoubtedly “Seaquel,” located at 142 Ocean Blvd. This impressive residence features eight bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms, offering plenty of space for large gatherings and family vacations. No doubt, this cottage turned heads and sparked excitement among visitors who imagined their summer getaways in such a splendid setting.

A Nostalgic Touch

One highlight of the tour was the flat top cottage at 218 Ocean Blvd., which gleamed with family stories and summertime memories. This beloved cottage is cherished by a local resident, who considers it her “happy place.” It encompassed everything one could adore about a family tradition—laughter, warmth, and the thrill of discovering vacation spots that beckon back to simpler times.

Sustainability Meets Affordability

The origins of these delightful cottages reveal a commitment to more than just aesthetics. Frank Stick envisioned a housing solution that would be accessible to everyone. His designs emphasized affordability, taking advantage of local materials such as cement blocks and juniper wood to create homes that blended seamlessly with their surroundings. The flat top cottages were not only practical but also exuded a unique charm that resonates with many even today.

Preserving the Past

Historian Tama Creef sheds light on the importance of these flat tops, noting how they reflect the growth of Southern Shores and its evolution into a sought-after vacation destination following World War II. Sadly, as times have changed, only about 25 of the original 100 flat top cottages from the 1950s and 60s still stand. Many have been replaced by larger homes that sometimes overshadow the charm of their predecessors. The hope of the Cottage Tour is to generate awareness and inspire the preservation of these iconic structures that tell the story of Southern Shores.

Every nook of the cottages showcases something special. For example, “Sea Breezes,” built in 1956, has remained largely unchanged, featuring wood-paneled walls and a nifty movable carpeted wall. Or take a stroll through the Sokol/Clements Cottage, which proudly bears the title of a Southern Shores Historic Landmark. And don’t miss the Clarke/Gudas Cottage, owned by one of the tour organizers, complete with a cozy interior and a spacious enclosed porch—a perfect setup for enjoying evenings with loved ones.

Get Involved!

The event was supported by local businesses such as Shore Coffee Roasters and Southern Shores Pizza, ensuring that refreshment and fun were on the menu for ticket holders. All proceeds from the tour will benefit the Outer Banks Community Foundation Flat Top Preservation Fund, promoting the singing of the flat tops and their significance in the local landscape.

While tickets were only available on the day of the event, the buzz and excitement surrounding the tour are expected to grow in future years. There’s something heartwarming about walking through these homes where countless cherished memories have been made, standing strong as a testament to Southern Shores’ unique history.

Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, the Historic Flat Top Cottage Tour is indeed a delightful event that fosters a deeper appreciation for the beautiful architecture and the stories embedded within Southern Shores’s landscape.