Katelyn Whelan didn’t have to look far to find her creative muse — she grew up on Isle of Hope. After moving back three years ago, the rhythms of the coast and the nostalgia of home continue to shape her artistic vision.

Katelyn is the founder of Beach House Studio, a collaborative design practice she runs alongside her sisters. Their work blends graphic design, brand development, product design, and creative direction — with projects spanning from woven throws and Turkish towel collaborations to wallpaper and digital storytelling. For Katelyn, design is most powerful when it brings people together.

“Our inspiration always starts with the coast — the textures, the light, the colors of Savannah and Tybee,” she says. “We’re drawn to spaces and objects that invite gathering and spark connection.”

A favorite project is their towel collaboration with swimwear designer Laura Templin, which weaves function and storytelling into a celebration of summer, family, and tradition. Katelyn’s aesthetic nods to Southern hospitality groups like Basic Projects and designers like Amanda Lindroth — coastal classics with a twist.

The biggest challenge? Merging creativity with entrepreneurship. Her answer: collaborate often and stay community-minded. Beach House Studio has participated in the Isle of Hope Art Festival, local pop-ups, and school fundraisers — and the sisters dream of one day opening a gallery-studio space to showcase more artists and makers.

“Whether it’s a product someone brings home or something they see online, we want people to feel joy and connection through our work.”

Explore more at beachhousestudio.co or follow @beach_house_studio_ on Instagram. Locals can even use a special delivery code by messaging the studio directly.