OPEN HOUSE
THE PORTERS’ CALL HOSPITALITY REIGNS AT THIS CHRISTMAS HOME NESTLED IN THE PINES ARTICLE JODI M. HORNER PHOTOGRAPHY CHAYCE LANPHEAR
WHEN YOU LIVE IN AN ELEGANTLY APPOINTED HOME WITH ENTERTAINMENT SPACE GALORE, IT’S UNDERSTANDABLE THAT YOU WOULD BECOME A MAGNET FOR GUESTS. Locals Mike and Cheryl Porter understand this as well as anyone. “What we like about this house and the reason we picked it was for its main-floor living—the first-floor master is very private,” Cheryl says, “yet the house expands for family.” With their interior design choices, the Porters have transcended typical Pinterest fare with original artwork, overseas finds and Cheryl’s own artistic touches. On the main floor are two pieces by Native American painter Earl Biss. “He’s a pretty spectacular artist,” Cheryl says. There’s a Frederick statue, too. “But don’t let us buy your art or you’ll die,” she jokes, “they’re all deceased!” The two chandeliers in the front hall are hand-carved crystal and hand-tied metal work brought in directly from France after finding them on holiday. Upstairs in the grandchildren’s bedroom is an original Dr. Seuss painting. “We bought it at a charity auction, and it became the theme for the entire room,” Cheryl explains. To further personalize the children's cove, she handpainted stars with each child’s sun sign above the beds. Expediting their penchant for hosting, the Porters' basement boasts a wine cellar, billiards room, bedroom and two CONTINUED >
12
Parker Lifestyle | December 2018