It’s a newer take on an old design.

With majestic columns for support and double-decker porches offering a breathtaking view, the Kelleys’ tan-colored Pamlico Plantation home gives a nod to a dual type of architecture — part Southern style, part French elegance.

Built in 2007, this home is a dream home for owners Pat and Nancy Kelley. Although they bought the Live Oak Lane property from Weyerhaeuser Co. in the 1980s, the Kelleys didn’t move there permanently until later.

With a love for historic homes, the couple set about planning how to create that look with new materials.

“We love old houses, and we love architecture,” Nancy Kelley said. “It has an old house look to it.”

The house also has an open feel to it, eschewing the traditional sectioned-off floor plan and replacing it with a spacious atmosphere — filled only with warm sunlight.

“It was because it had such a resort feeling. We felt like we were on vacation,” Kelley said of why they chose to build a home at Pamlico Plantation. “I think it was mostly the appeal of being on the water.”

“They kept saying, ‘You know what this is? This is summer camp for adults,’” she added.

Pamlico Plantation has a 285-slip marina and a choice of residential homes or townhomes. Dubbed by its residents as Beaufort County’s best-kept secret, the community began as one for retirees but has since grown into a home for all ages.

The community offers a variety of amenities, from its own yacht club and kayaking, to tennis courts and a pool. Its proximity to Bath Elementary School and Goose Creek State Park are two more of its selling points.

It’s been home for many years, and even before moving there permanently, it was a second home for the Kelleys. As they age, however, they saw the need to move closer to family.

According to Kelley, the couple does not want to leave.

Although bittersweet, this carefully crafted dream home is now primed to welcome a new family, ready to continue what the Kelleys have started and perhaps adapt to the new family’s preferences, as well. With a fun, warm and artistic group of neighbors, Pamlico Plantation is all about making a home one’s own.

A mixture of the old and the new, Pamlico Plantation is an unexpected waterfront gem — one that has been invaluable to the Kelleys.

“We love Pamlico Plantation, we love the people here, especially, and we love our house,” Kelley said. “We thought we would stay here forever.”