HOME FOR ENTERTAINING WITH SOUTHERN STUDIO INTERIOR DESIGN PRESENTS
HOST + HOME
A NOTE FROM VICKY
WELCOME TO SPRINGTIME AT 119 WEST PARK STREET.
This summer marks three years since the opening of Home for Entertaining—a milestone that feels both exciting and humbling. What began as a vision has grown into something far more meaningful than we ever imagined. Along the way, we’ve learned, adapted, and been continually inspired by the vibrant energy of Downtown Cary and the community we’re so grateful to be part of. It’s a privilege to grow alongside you.
Inside the shop, the season is in full bloom with thoughtfully curated pieces that tell a story. Jackie and Megan continue to lead the charge, seeking out artisans whose work reflects cra smanship, character, and heart. There’s a certain magic in the hunt—and even more joy in bringing those discoveries home to share with you. In this issue, we invite you to explore some of our latest finds.
At Southern Studio, we’re proud to unveil one of our newest projects—years in the making and well worth the wait. Every home has a story, and this one is especially meaningful. It’s the result of a truly collaborative e ort, culminating in a space designed to be lived in, loved, and passed down. We hope it sparks inspiration for your own spaces.
As the days grow longer, we’re reminded of how special this season can be—gatherings by the pool, weekends at the lake, impromptu dinners, and easy evenings outdoors. These are the moments that stay with us. We hope this issue inspires you to create more of them.
Thank you for being part of our little corner of the world. We always love seeing you in the shop—and we’d be delighted to welcome you to Girls Night Out, held every second Wednesday of the month. It’s quickly become a favorite tradition.
Wishing you a beautiful season of gathering and entertaining.
Warmly,
Vicky Serany
LET'S CONNECT
SOUTHERN STUDIO PROJECT REVEAL
DESIGNING A FOREVER HOME BUILT FOR CONNECTION, COMFORT, AND CELEBRATION BLUE, WHITE & MADE FOR SUMMER 4 8 15
DESTINATION GIFTS ON THE GO THE ALPINE RETREAT THE GOLDEN HOUR GETAWAY THE SALT AIR ESCAPE
The journey began not with the main home, but with something uniquely personal: a custom barndominium designed as a baseball training hangout for the family’s sons and their friends. From the outset, it was clear this project would require a builder capable of delivering both creativity and precision. Enter Ru y Homes, whose reputation for cra smanship and attention to detail made them the ideal partner for such a distinctive endeavor.
By 2024, the barn was complete—and already alive with energy, laughter, and the unmistakable rhythm of family life in motion. Watching the space come to life only reinforced what everyone involved already knew: this was just the beginning.
With the success of the barndominium behind them, the focus shi ed to the “big” house—the family’s forever home. Architectural plans were developed by Tony Frazier and his team at Frazier Home Design, laying the foundation for a residence that would balance sophistication with livability. From there, the design process unfolded as a seamless collaboration, with project manager Brett Burnette of Ru y Homes ensuring every detail was executed to the highest standard.
The homeowners came to the table with a clear and compelling vision: a casually elegant lifestyle centered around hosting. This wasn’t just a home for everyday living—it was a place designed to welcome, to entertain, and to bring people together.
At the heart of the design is a strong emphasis on indoor-outdoor flow. Large openings and thoughtfully planned transitions allow the home to expand e ortlessly into its surrounding landscape. The kitchen serves as a central hub, outfitted with state-of-the-art appliances and layered with custom details that elevate both function and form. Just beyond it, a dream scullery provides additional workspace while doubling as a stunning bar area—perfect for entertaining on any scale.
One of the most memorable design moments emerged from a challenge that perfectly captures the spirit of the project. The homeowners fell in love with a backsplash tile featuring subtle metallic flecks that shimmer beautifully in the light. There was just one problem: it had been discontinued. Rather than compromise, the design team took on the challenge, reaching out to showrooms across the country in search of remaining inventory.
Their persistence paid o —they secured just enough tile to bring the vision to life. It’s a small detail, perhaps, but one that speaks volumes about the commitment to excellence and the thrill of the creative process.
Outside, the property unfolds like a private resort. An infinity-edge pool overlooks a picturesque scene complete with a lazy river, fire pit, and tranquil farm pond. The expansive covered porch is designed for year-round enjoyment, featuring a fully equipped outdoor kitchen that would impress even the most seasoned grillmaster. Phantom screens o er flexibility, allowing the space to shi e ortlessly between open-air freedom and enclosed comfort, all while maintaining a strong visual and physical connection to the indoors.
Inside, the home continues to blur the lines between formal and casual living. The dining room flows naturally from the main living space, creating an environment that feels both cohesive and inviting. Furnishings throughout the home were carefully selected to reflect the homeowners’ lifestyle—active, family-oriented, and filled with both kids and pets.
Durability played a key role in the design decisions. Performance fabrics, resilient finishes, and thoughtfully chosen materials ensure the home can handle daily wear without sacrificing its refined aesthetic. Even the outdoor Polywood furnishings were selected with intention, incorporating long-lasting pieces that can stand up to the elements while maintaining a polished look.
What truly sets this project apart, however, is the collaboration behind it. From the homeowners’ vision to the architect’s plans, from the builder’s execution to the design team’s creative problem-solving, every element came together in harmony. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when talented professionals and engaged clients work toward a shared goal.
In the end, this isn’t just a beautifully designed home—it’s a deeply personal space that reflects the people who live in it. It’s where weekend gatherings spill from the kitchen to the porch, where kids and friends move freely between indoors and out, and where every detail has been thoughtfully considered to support a life well lived.
Bringing a forever home like this to life is always rewarding. But when the process is as collaborative, intentional, and inspired as this one, the result is something truly special—a home that doesn’t just meet expectations, but exceeds them in every possible way.
Vicky Serany | Principal Designer
There’s nothing more special than seeing a family truly enjoy a home we’ve designed. Knowing that their home will be the backdrop for years of family memories is heartwarming and even a little bit magical.
Kayla Boyle | Senior Designer
Seeing months of meticulous planning and collaboration finally take shape in such a beautiful way is incredibly rewarding. This home is truly a space where comfort meets intention, and every detail supports everyday living and e ortless entertaining.
Brett Burnette |
Project Manager, Rufty Homes
Every specialty design element was carefully chosen to create a cohesive, timeless look, with each detail complementing the next. The homeowner even hand selected the stone and wood beams, adding a personal touch with unique character throughout the home.
Megan Pierson | Homeowner
Working with Southern Studio was such a special experience for us. They really took the time to understand not just what we wanted the space to look
like, but how we actually live and how we love to host. They brought our vision to life in a way that feels so natural and personal to us. It’s become the place where everyone gathers. It’s comfortable, inviting, and just works the way we hoped it would. There’s a warmth to the space that’s hard to describe, but you feel it the moment you walk in. That’s a reflection of the thought and care they put into every detail. We’re so grateful for what they created for our family. It’s something we’ll enjoy for years to come.
SEASONAL STYLING
The Outdoor Dining Table
Blue, White & Made for Summer
When the weather is warm and the doors are open, the table moves outside – and this look proves that al fresco entertaining can be every bit as polished as anything indoors. Navy block-print Pomegranate placemats anchor the setting with bold pattern and a nod to patriotic summer celebrations, while a lush Montes Doggett centerpiece of white blooms and so blue florals keep the whole look fresh and garden-gathered.
The beauty of this table is in its practicality. Beatriz Ball Vida Nube melamine plates bring the look of fine china without the worry, and Juliska Amalia acrylic tumblers catch the light like glass while standing up to the breeze. Playful linens add a layer of whimsy, and the Addison Ross Bobbin lamps – equally at home on a porch, a console, or a bedside – bridge the gap between indoor elegance and outdoor ease. Juliska Berry + Thread flatware completes the setting with its timeless, garden-inspired details.
Styling Notes:
Start with a bold patterned placemat- navy block-print grounds the table and sets the patriotic palette. Layer in white melamine plates for a clean, polished base, then add a printed napkin for personality. Choose acrylic glassware in a coordinating hue so the color story carries all the way up the table. Tuck tabletop lamps at either end of the table for warm ambient light as the evening sets in – they’re just as beautiful indoors a er the party moves inside. Finish with a generous floral centerpiece in a statement vessel and let the flowers do the rest.
THE BEST OUTDOOR TABLE FEELS LIKE IT BELONGS THERE –EASY, INTENTIONAL, AND WORTH LINGERING OVER.
Create
the Look
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/vida-nube-dinner-plate
Beatriz Ball Vida Nube Dinner Plate
Juliska Amalia Acrylic Tumbler in Ocean
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/juliska-amalia-ocean-acrylic-tumbler
Juliska Berry + Thread Place Setting
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/berry-thread-place-setting?_pos=1&_sid=bb6b3a6b5&_ss=r
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/addison-ross-bobbin-led-lamp
Addison Ross Bobbin Lamp in Sage
The bar gets a summer upgrade when everything on it is as beautiful as what’s being poured. An outdoor bar setup should be a celebration of summertime set with natural pool-side colors that pair well with a cool, shaken cocktail. Casual dining bar-side is best served with shatter-proof melamine dishes, making it perfect for guests of all ages.
Styling Notes:
Build your bar the same way you build a table – with intention. Start with a cutting board and a high-quality serated knife for fruits and garnishes. Arrange your spirit, shaker, and glasses in an approachable cluster and texture, and have a cordless lamp ready for when The goal is a bar that feels curated and approachable,
Hosting Tip:
the sun sets low and the party continues into the night.
before guests
Set the bar up arrive and let it do the welcoming for you.
Create the Look
Juliska Graham Cocktail Shaker
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/scalloped-cutting-
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/humble-air-table-
Humble Air Table Light
Acrylic Cocktail Napkin
Hostess Set
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/acrylic-cocktail-napkin-hostess-setheres-to-nights-with-friends?_pos=5&_sid=86edb7562&_ss=r
Viridescent
Rocks Glasses
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/viridescent-rocksglasses?_pos=1&_sid=009fa4462&_ss=r
The Little Saints St.
Ember
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/little-saints-st-ember-nonalcoholic?_pos=1&_sid=d62fe7a92&_ss=r
Summer Grilling, Made Easy HOSTING GUIDE
Summer entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated- it just has to feel like summer. Think warm evenings, cold drinks, the smell of something good on the grill, ad a table set with pieces that make people want to linger. This is your guide to pulling it all together e ortlessly, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with the people you love.
DRINK
Lavender Lemonade
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh lemon juice(about 6 lemons)
¾ cup lavender simple syrup*
3 cups cold water
Sugar to taste
Lemon slices + fresh lavender to garnish
Instructions:
Make the lavender syrup: simmer 1 cup sugar + 1 cup water + 2 btsp dried lavender for 5 min. Strain and cool.
Combine lemon juice, lavender syrup, and
Grilled Kabobs with Summer Vegetables
Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1” pieces
1 red + 1 yellow bell pepper, chunked
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 zucchini or summer squash, sliced into rounds
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
Lemon or lime zest
Salt, pepper + fresh herbs for finishing
Instructions:
Toss chicken and vegetables in olive oil, garlic, zest, salt, and pepper. Marinate 30 minutes.
Tread onto skewers, alternating chicken and vegetables.
THE TUNES
Grill over medium- high heat 10-12 min. turning once, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon or lime. Serve straight from the grill.
Golden Happy Hour Playlist
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5MDtWbH6W4TI6vwqnFhC4X?si=WG7ZYVR8S2OQDhMtOV6BQw&nd=1&dlsi=9fdf48a923fc4b35
Shop
the Look
Activity
Mahjong in the Sun
Keep the fun going before and a er dinner. Set up the Mini Miss Cowgirl: Travel Mahjong for a round of friendly competition. Then let the a ernoon dri away on the water. The best summer parties have nowhere to be – and no reason to rush.
Summer Feasting
From The Fire
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/summerfeasting-from-the-fire?_pos=1&_sid=a34b6e8c3&_ss=r
Extra Large Rectangular Tray
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/vida-nubetray?_pos=2&_sid=bbe941fe1&_ss=r
Grande Bobbin Salt + Pepper Mill
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/bobbinsalt-pepper-grinder?_pos=1&_sid=490a35c8d&_ss=r
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/insulatedmini-bowl?_pos=4&_sid=a9e6c4944&_ss=r
Insulated Small Serving Bowl
SUMMER HOSTING IS ABOUT SOAKING IN THE MOMENT – GOOD FOOD, GOOD MUSIC, A BEAUTIFUL DAY, AND EVEN BETTER COMPANY.
DESTINATION
GIFTS ON THE GO
The Alpine Retreat A Mountain House Gift Bundle
Headed to the mountains this summer? Skip the wine and bring a gi that will actually get used all weekend. This bundle is equal parts cozy and elevated – everything your host needs to settle in, slow down, and soak up every moment of mountain life.
ADD PLAYLIST
Mountain Moods https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1RH1jS3FfPvyfK1k9r6sDi?si=2p-OcQ7eRICagvyzS2Vekg&nd=1&dlsi=6308c8f03fa043f5
What's Inside
THE BEST HOSTESS GIFT IS ONE THAT SETS THE MOOD – FROM THE MOMENT THEY UNWRAP IT.
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/hand-bodywash-bergamot-lavender?_pos=1&_sid=5a985fd31&_ss=r
Palermo Hand + Body Wash
Montauk Bowl + Server Set Apres Ski Throw Blanket
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/bright-mangowood-bowl-server-set?_pos=1&_sid=55e1787ed&_ss=r
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/aprzs-ski-throwblankete?_pos=1&_sid=2e0f53700&_ss=r
Amelie Candle –Eucalyptus & Alpine Sage
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/amelie-candle-eucalyptus-alpinesage?_pos=1&_sid=2be3f8eb0&_ss=r
DESTINATION GIFTS ON THE GO
The Golden Hour Getaway A Lake House Gift Bundle
Lake weekends are made for slow evenings, good conversation, and a drink in hand as the sun dips low. This bundle sets the scene perfectly – a glowing table light, a handcra ed glass, cocktail napkins for the crowd, and a little something sweet to make every pour feel like a celebration.
ADD PLAYLIST
Lakeside Lounging https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7beTTzIRKY7IOvbkHJYK2A?si=6codEYYdR6e48DQTz7xbrQ&nd=1&dlsi=674fcf974b8343d5
What's Inside
Humble Firefly Table Light
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/firefly-tablelight?_pos=1&_sid=3e8b159d9&_ss=r
Forest Spotted Rocks Glasses
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/forestspotted-rocks-glass?_pos=1&_sid=629eba796&_ss=r
Acrylic Cocktail Napkin Hostess Set
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/acryliccocktail-napkin-hostess-set-good-people-good-fun?_pos=1&_sid=27ec08885&_ss=r
Striped Sage Tea Towel
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/striped-sage-teatowel?_pos=4&_sid=7397ccf73&_ss=r
DUSTIN PECK PHOTOGRAPHY
JACQUELINE REID PHOTOGRAPHY
French cheese knives that feel like a little luxury, and a hand-embroidered tea towel that is almost too pretty to use. Almost.
ADD PLAYLIST
Shore Thing https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5XADPJeTynHPDRumYczYdZ?si=hBjt7wX7TJ22tpyc2TXqMg&nd=1&dlsi=ccf07aead7514e3d
What's Inside
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/whalebonecutting-board?_pos=1&_sid=ba2c5f999&_ss=r
Whalebone Cutting Board
Busatti Tea Towel Embroidered Crabs
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/embroidered-olive-teatowel?_pos=1&_sid=cc322b8f0&_ss=r
Claude Dozorme Box of 3 Berlingot cheese knives
https://homeforentertaining.com/products/claude-dozorme-box-of-3-berlingot-cheeseknives?_pos=2&_sid=c83c135f0&_ss=r
Tropical Sunset Birds Printed Matches
https://homeforentertaining.com/collections/matches-lighters/products/tropicalsunset-birds-printed-matchbook
DUSTIN PECK PHOTOGRAPHY
JACQUELINE REID PHOTOGRAPHY
