Home Design & Decor Magazine- Triangle Edition- Mar/Apr 2025
HD D GREAT ESCAPES &
Remarkable communities. In spectacular settings.
Loyd Builders communities pair exquisitely crafted custom homes with beautiful, soughtafter
Schedule a private appointment to learn more about Revere, Shadow Creek Estates, and all of our exclusive opportunities.
CUSTOM FURNITURE FOR THE WHOLE HOME
we specialize in luxury, modern interiors & renovation projects renovation projects
STYLE BY CAMARA, INTERIOR DESIGNER AND JACKSON’S CONTRACTING, BUILDING CONTRACTOR.
We are your premier destination for luxury home renovations, seamlessly blending elegance and functionality. Specializing in high-end kitchens and bathrooms, we incorporate upscale features into every project, ensuring a refined and sophisticated finish.
Where Luxury Lives
An Exclusive, Contemporary Custom Community with One to
SAGE BUILT, part of the family of companies that comprise Windjam Development Group, builds custom homes beginning at $2.5 million in the greater Triangle region. With decades of experience, Sage Built works closely with its clients to design personalized homes in planned communities. The Windjam Companies provide premier luxury real estate development, building and marketing of residential homes from their Cary headquarters.
COME HOME TO THE SUMMIT WHERE LUXURY LIVES.
Unwind after a long workday with the embrace of nature surrounding your home. Experience what it feels like to wake up in your personalized home custom-designed and constructed by Sage Built, the exclusive luxury builder serving The Summit community in Pittsboro.
New homes in The Summit nestle into the natural hillside while combining luxury features with estate-size lots in a serene, rural-like setting. Choose an expansive view of Chatham County from a lot on the pinnacle of Burnett Mountain or be surrounded by forested vistas on a wooded homesite. Bespoke homes in the contemporary community are the perfect fusion of tranquility and convenience to local amenities. With 49 homesites that range from one to almost seven acres, there is room to roam and plenty of privacy to raise a family and enjoy the solitude of this special topography.
Whatever homesite you choose, your luxury home remains close to the vibrant energy of nearby shopping, dining and cultural attractions in Pittsboro and Chapel Hill and minutes from a day’s fun outing at Jordan Lake. Book a five-star dinner a few minutes’ drive away in Fearrington Village or meet friends for coffee in nearby Mosaic at Chatham Park in Pittsboro. Enjoy living close to activities in a secluded haven designed with well-appointed details at The Summit by Sage Built.
Cozy and Collected A Blowing Rock beauty provides the perfect sanctuary for
Triangle family.
Home Away from Home A couple finds escape in their guest cottage on their Roaring Gap mountain estate
MICHAEL BLEVINS; STYLING BY CHRISTY DAY AT CHRISTY DAY DESIGNS
HD D&
HOME DESIGN & DECOR
Publisher
Michael Kooiman
Associate Publisher
Oonagh Murray S A L E S
Advertising and Marketing Consultant
Sue Mooney E D I T O R I A L
Co-Editors-in-Chief
Anne Marie Ashley
Blake Miller
Associate Editor
Karin Simoneau
D E S I G N
Art Director
Lindsay Richards
P R O D U C T I O N
Production Coordinator
Shelley Kemper
Ad Support
Stacy Long
Writers
Maria Masters
Dana W. Todd
Brandy Woods Snow
Photography
Anna Routh Barzin
Michael Blevins
Heather Ison
Dustin and Susie Peck
@hddmagazine_tri facebook.com/TriangleHDD
e think it’s pretty safe to say that everyone may be looking for an escape right now. Whether it’s the cold weather, the twenty-fourhour news cycle, or the everspinning hamster wheel that has you worn down, a chance to disconnect and relax is always welcome, and sorely needed. But getting away looks different to everyone, and some escapes may never have crossed your mind to explore. Have you ever considered staying the weekend in your backyard guest house? Or what about traipsing up to New York to get lost in the crowded streets? Maybe you need the warm sun and a vast mountain view to feel a world away. We’ve included homes like these alongside the perennial favorite beach home and marsh-side boutique retreats in our annual Great Escapes issue. No matter where you end up, make sure you take off your shoes and let your bare feet touch the grass or sink in the sand. Let the sun kiss your nose and the breeze quiet your mind. Let the heartbeat of the city be the only thing you can hear. Because in all those moments, we’re certain you’ll discover that every little thing will be alright.
Blake Miller and Anne Marie Ashley Co-Editors-in-Chief
on the cover
Designers Kate McKee and Judy Burrey of Barbour Spangle Design spearhead the interiors of their client's Blowing Rock, North Carolina, home (page 44).
PORTRAIT: LAUREN GRAH AM PHOTOGRAPHY;
MICHAEL BLEVINS
Beach Trip
Designer Lauren McKay dreamed up a bright and fanciful kids’ room in this Pine Knoll Shores vacation home.
THIS SECOND HOME in Pine Knoll Shores is a haven for one Triangle family, and designer Lauren McKay was tasked with making it bright and beachy. We love this adorable guest room, planned with the couple’s niece and nephew in mind. “They have two boys themselves,” says McKay, “and they wanted to design this room with a few more feminine details for their niece and nephew while keeping the space gender-neutral overall.” McKay designed a whimsical room with over-the-bed canopies perfect for siblings and guests alike. “The wide stripe brings a coastal feeling while staying youthful. I worked closely with my local workroom, Dogwood Designs, to lay out the stepped detail along the bottom edge, inspired by awning designs. I love how it turned out; the yellow-striped canopies catch your eye and bring drama and fun to this coastal kid’s room.”
SARAH ANN LAZORIK
Beds: Bassett Furniture. Canopy and window-seat fabric: Romo. Canopy trim: Samuel & Sons. Lamp: Robert Abbey Fine Lighting. Pillows: Erika M. Powell Textiles.
Applegate encouraged the homeowners to keep the home’s existing red door. “It was just such a fun pop of color,” she says. “We let that be a jumping-off point for the foyer design.” Rug: Nashville Rug Gallery.
Slate Interiors.
Visual Comfort. Ottoman: Vintage.
Three very different homes showcase what it means to get away anywhere.
Artwork:
Chandelier:
FINE PRINTS
Text by Maria Masters
Photography by Anna Routh Barzin
For Collin and Sarah Hill, owning a vacation home in the mountains was a twenty-year dream in the making. The couple met in college while Collin was working at a golf course on Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. Eventually, they married and settled down in a traditional Georgian-style home in Raleigh.
Still, the lure of Grandfather Mountain never quite left Collin, especially once they became parents. Things shifted seriously in 2022, when Collin, who had been casually browsing real estate listings in the area for over a decade, decided to visit a newly renovated house that had just come on the market.
“Collin came home and showed me a video of our son walking down the driveway with a creek in the background,” Sarah recalls. “Our son turned around and said, ‘Dad, this is so beautiful,’ and I was done.”
Structurally, the home checked all the boxes: an open floor plan; expansive floor-to-ceiling and clerestory windows that flooded the home with natural light; and a newly updated kitchen. But the home’s architectural style was midcentury modern, and the Hills’s aesthetic was decidedly traditional. “The house was a little outside of our comfort zone,” admits Collin.
Ultimately, though, the property was too good to pass up. The couple made an offer in the fall of 2022 with the hopes of furnishing the home by the summer of 2023. Sarah turned to Raleigh designer Anna Applegate for design help.
“We wanted a lot of color and pattern for the upholstery,” Applegate says of the living room. The homeowners share a love of antiques, so Applegate selected a
A bold nature-themed wallpaper covers the walls of the guest bathroom.
vintage coffee table and side table for the room. Rug: Nashville Rug Gallery. Sofa: Century Furniture. Armchairs: EJ Victor. Sofa fabric: McLaurin & Piercy. Wooden chairs: A. Hoke Ltd.
Wallpaper: Osborne & Little.
Applegate updated the kitchen cabinets with a fresh coat of paint and created a breakfast nook in the corner for the family of four.
In the recreation room, Applegate embraced the room's natural light and selected a bright green console table and black stools, clad in an abstract fabric. A traditional plaid shade adds a traditional touch. Console: Slate Interiors. Stool fabric: Clarence House. Artwork: Slate Interiors. Lamp: Anthropologie.
“It was so easy with Anna,” says Sarah. “She stopped by my house the day after I emailed her, and we talked in our sweats over coffee.” It was then that all of Sarah’s reservations were put to rest. “Anna turned to me and said, ‘This is my dream home,’” Sarah recalls. “And I knew that if she loved it that much, she was going to do a good job, and I was 100 percent going to trust her.”
While Applegate kept some of the home’s existing features, like the cherry-red front door and the black floor-to-ceiling shutters, she incorporated traditional furnishings throughout the house in a variety of textures and plaid and floral patterns. “We wanted to honor the original architecture of the home but incorporate Sarah’s traditional style into it,” says Applegate. In the open living and dining areas, a single sisal rug runs the length of the area while an overlaid Oushak rug outlines the space for the living room. Downstairs, their daughter’s room is painted a moody aubergine, offset with a traditional floral headboard.
The space is both sophisticated and functional, perfect for the months the Hills spend swimming, golfing, and playing tennis during the summer. “There’s a sense of relaxation here,” says Collin. “There’s a sense of community, and we’re happy with our home and the way it came together.” Adds Sarah, “It’s better than I could have ever imagined.”
the owner’s
is
the
in a rhododendron fabric, a nod to the rhododendrons surrounding the home.
On the lower level, Applegate painted the homeowners’ daughter’s bedroom a deep aubergine. She offset the homeowners’ existing chest of drawers with a pair of antique chairs and lamps. “We wanted to make it feel like a cozy cocoon," she says. Wall paint: Farrow & Ball Brinjal. Chairs: Hunt & Gather. Lamps: Visual Comfort. Painting: Etsy.
In the home office, Applegate painted the walls a bold blue and positioned an Eames chair in the corner to create a cozy reading nook. Wall paint: Benjamin Moore Ocean Floor. Chair: Herman Miller.
PERSONAL PIED-À-TERRE
Text by Anne Marie Ashley
Photography by Heather Ison
Creativity fuels us all, and it can look different for every person. Where fashion inspires one, architecture inspires another.
For North Carolina–based fine artist
Lauren Bolshakov, it was her art that inspired her love for interior design. For years, Bolshakov has layered paint and linework, each responding intuitively to the other, and after designing her longsought-after New York City apartment, she knew interior design would come just as naturally to her.
“I am from the Northeast and have always dreamed of having my own place in Manhattan,” says Bolshakov. “After my husband and I found ourselves frequently traveling back and forth from Charlotte to New York for work and social visits, the timing felt right to finally pursue it.” After years of searching for a space that checked off all the boxes on her admittedly “impossible must-haves” list, their agent showed them this Upper East Side apartment and they knew it was worth the
wait.
Bolshakov balances the bedroom design with a mix of vintage and collected.
Nightstands: Serena & Lily. Chandelier: One Kings Lane. Lamps: Lighting New York. Artwork: Gregg Irby Gallery.
A respite in the city, "It’s surprisingly quiet for Manhattan," says Bolshakov. "The food, museums, shopping, and parks make it a lovely place to be."
Chairs: McGee & Co.
Bolshakov maximized space in the kitchen and living areas by reimagining the downstairs. Counter stools: Serena & Lily. Pendant lights: RH. Table: Pergola.
"Styling the shelf to look unstyled was so much fun. It gave the space a personal and relaxed feel that I love," says Bolshakov of her living room.
Sofa: One Kings Lane. Accent chair: Safavieh. Side tables: Four Hands.
“Not only was it freshly painted in great neutral colors, but it also had refinished French parquet floors and Waterworks plumbing fixtures,” she says. “It was everything I would have implemented had I overseen the remodel myself!” That it was close to her daughter and her fiancé was icing on the cake.
The classic Parisian style of the building was an obvious jumping-off point for Bolshakov, who planned to use the freshly painted neutrals to showcase an art-forward energy with a cozy aesthetic. Like the other three homes Bolshakov had designed for her family, she knew she wanted an entertaining space, a great kitchen, and a place for her family to truly relax together. “It was so exciting to see the space transform from an empty apartment into a home that met all our needs. I envisioned textured fabrics and throw blankets, lots of candles and bookshelves filled with books, and a backdrop for my growing art collection.”
Though the main level was a bit of a challenge, Bolshakov creatively adjusted the floor plan to accommodate her vision, placing a dining and living room alongside the kitchen. A bedroom upstairs transformed into a home office, which left plenty of room in the downstairs family room—her favorite space—for game and movie nights.
This creativity was her inspiration, Bolshakov says. “This apartment reminded me how much I love design for its ability to breathe life into a bare space, and it encouraged me to share that love with others professionally.”
The piano was a statement piece that offsets another. "The walnut piano softens the metal and glass coffee table and TV console," says Bolshakov. Artwork: Canvas, Lauren Bolshakov; collage faces by Suzy Lindow from Isabella. Stool: Thrifted.
CHIC SHED
Text by Karin Simoneau
Photography by Anna Routh Barzin
Imagine creating a space just steps from the back door of your main house that feels like a destination every time you enter. That’s exactly what designer Katharine Harris of Sixth and Steel accomplished after converting a shed in the backyard of her historic home into a multipurpose escape.
Located in the Fisher Park Historic District in Greensboro, the home Harris shares with her fiancé Mitch Kamphuis had limited secondary space, so the designer set her sights on the shed. “One day, while sitting in our favorite sandwich shop, I sketched my idea for the floor plan and it evolved from there,” Harris says. Her vision included a historic yet elevated exterior and a modern take on the interior. With Kamphuis at the helm as the general contractor, the two collaborated throughout the entire process, working through specific design requests and elements Harris wanted in the space. In the kitchen, custom cabinets were painted dark olive and embellished with chartreuse hardware. An indoor-outdoor bi-fold window and an exotic quartz
The kitchen charms with a retro fridge and chartreuse hardware that pops against dark olive cabinets. Hardwood floors with smaller-width planks align with the historic neighborhood. Hardware: Matilda Goad. Fridge: iio.
Sconce: Blueprint Lighting. Cabinets: The Silver Maple Woodworking Company.
Bi-fold windows in the kitchen allow for conversation to run freely onto the deck, where a natural haven for alfresco meals and family gatherings awaits.
Sconce: Schoolhouse. Door: Grand Entry Doors.
countertop extending to the deck allow for conversation inside and out, where durable white barstools stand tall and a modern sconce shines light on a patinaed brass plaque that says Fort Knox—the building christened after Harris’s soon-to-be stepson Knox.
The bathroom is an homage to wildlife, starring bold and whimsical Flying West wallcovering by Schumacher. “As soon as I saw this paper launch on Instagram, I was able to pull the bathroom together,” says Harris. A Calacatta viola marble fluted sink and patterned bathroom floor tiles pick up plums, reds, and a mix of neutral colors and yellows, creating a fanciful wonderland.
Harris maximized space in the bedroom with a custom-built Murphy bed and painted the walls a relaxing blue hue. “We were able to fit a king-size mattress with storage on either side for guests, including hanging space for clothes, multiple drawers, and outlets for charging phones at night,” she says.
Now, when she walks through the door of the completed space, Harris feels a sense of relief. Of all her projects, Fort Knox will always be the designer’s favorite. “It’s for my family, and it’s the first project Mitch and I worked on together. When Knox says to his daddy, ‘I want to sleep in my building,’ you know it’s a job well done.”
Lightweight furniture pieces can easily be repositioned for lounging or movie nights, or moved off to the side for a game of charades or Twister. Chairs: Etsy. Ottomans:
In the bedroom, Harris envisioned a king-size Murphy bed equipped with modern-day conveniences. “It’s one of the first ideas I had when starting to plan this space,” she says. Murphy bed: Custom. Paint: Benjamin Moore Atmospheric AF-500. Ottomans: Slate Interiors.
Colorful and bold, Harris wanted the full bathroom to feel completely different from the rest of the space. “My thought process for this full bath was that it needed to be a statement,” she says. Wallcovering: Schumacher X Peg Norris. Sink: ATA Marble, sourced through Etsy. Floor tiles: LiLi.
Slate Interiors. Side table: Lisa Johnson and Co.
Ray of Sunshine
The new Color Me Happy collection from North Carolina–based designer Laura Park sings spring into existence with bold patterns and bright colors. The line debuts tableware, bedding, pillows, and everyday accessories and gifts like totes, tumblers, jewelry, and jammies—all certain to add a dose of delight to you and your home. lauraparkdesigns.com
Poppy Fields
North Carolina–based wallcoverings designer and artist Liane Ricci of Ricci Studio has released a new collection of papers two years in the making, inspired by the elegant shapes of nature and the influential works of modern-age artists. At the heart of this line is Poppy, with flowing lines and playful forms from which Ricci has created three complementary designs: Petalcrest, Cloverfield (pictured), and Axle. Each design reflects the essence of Poppy, building on its spirit while adding new depth and personality. riccistudio.com
All Things BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL
These latest releases from designers known and new, near and far, offer daring new ways to express yourself.
Produced by Anne Marie Ashley
Joyful Joyful
New female-founded tableware and entertaining brand Ro’Table debuts one of its first collections this spring, Cedric and Luca. Hosting has always been central to founder Roshan Adam's life, from her vibrant Indo-Persian upbringing in Britain to organizing highprofile events for influential figures. Inspired by these experiences, she created Ro'Table to make tableware "that fosters meaningful connections," she says. The Cedric and Luca collection, she adds, is inspired by the "joie de vivre of the South of France and the dolce vita of Italy." Find corresponding menus and playlists for this collection on the Ro’Table website. rotablenyc.com
LIANE RICCI; RO'TABLE; LAURA PARK DESIGNS
Midsummer Dream
Contemporary lifestyle brand Vaisselle, created by fashionturned-tableware designer Léa Zana, has released the Tale of Summer collection— a vibrant mix of tableware and vases infused with the designer’s French heritage, love of global antiques, and the coastal feel of the Mediterranean islands. During the trunk show on the Moda Operandi website, choose from designs that can be mixed and matched, and may be one of a kind, which is Zana’s favorite way to collect. modaoperandi.com
Historical Romance
English artist and designer Luke Edward Hall teamed up with The Lacquer Company to create his latest collection of furniture and accessories. Featuring beautiful trompe l'oeil painted decoration influenced by the Regencyera, the collection features colorful and vibrant yet substantial pieces inspired by his love of history and filtered through a lens of irreverent romanticism. thelacquercompany.com
LOW COUNTRY EASY LIKE
Located on the banks of the Kiawah River, this boutique property is the perfect retreat from the bustle of everyday life.
Text by Blake Miller
The road to peace and quiet begins with a scenic drive through moss-draped oak trees and coastal marshlands dotted with white cranes so well camouflaged that you’d miss them if you didn’t already know they were there. As the palm tree–lined road narrows, the world feels far away from the stresses of modern life. The Dunlin Auberge Resorts Collection creates the space for this feeling as you round the circle drive of the boutique property and step out of your car; in fact, it’s their goal. As if the gentle saltwater breeze and warm sun weren’t enough to lower your cortisol, the coastal view beyond, which constantly morphs with the ebb and flow of the tide, will do the trick.
The inspiration for The Dunlin's interiors "came from older houses of the low country," says Lindroth. "Our goal was for guests to experience the feeling of a barefoot 1920s low country summer house."
Set on the banks of the Kiawah River just twenty miles from Charleston, The Dunlin is one of the newest properties in Auberge’s impressive collection. A perfect blend of luxury and nature, this charming retreat offers guests a front-row seat to the sweeping beauty of the marshlands and ocean. The public spaces and seventytwo guest rooms and suites were designed by renowned Bahamas-based designer Amanda Lindroth, known for her timeless island aesthetic; in turn, each room boasts elegant low country cottage-inspired touches of gingham patterns, honey-oak floors, and wicker accents, all in a charming island palette that signals relaxation the moment you walk through the door.
Whether it’s lounging beside either of two pools, enjoying a massage at the spa, kayaking alongside dolphins and sea turtles, or biking the pea-gravel trails along the marsh, respite beckons couples and families alike. While culinary king Charleston is just a short drive away, the Dunlin’s upscale dining option, Linnette’s, satisfies the pickiest foodies. Local Steamboat Creek oysters are a mainstay on the menu and are best eaten raw to truly taste the briny finish. As expected, seafood is the star at Linnette’s, and the coastal-inspired menu features the freshest creations caught locally, such as cornmeal-crusted flounder, seared golden tilefish, and Hamachi crudo, among other delicious options like duck leg confit. We submit that a Lazy Man’s Old-Fashioned nightcap really completes the culinary experience.
A walk down to the dock provides a 180-degree view of the expansive marsh. The dock juts out just far enough to feel like you’re on a secluded peninsula. It’s our suggestion that a morning coffee or evening glass of wine in this spot, watching the sun rise or set, is often the most peaceful. But truthfully, at The Dunlin, relaxation tends to be omnipresent. aubergeresorts.com/the-dunlin
The resort and all of the guest suites were designed by renowned designer Amanda Lindroth.
Locally sourced oysters (above, right) are a mainstsay on the menu at Linnette's (below, left).
The Best of North Carolina
GALLERY C | MARCH 26–MAY 24
Gallery owner, art historian, and North Carolina native Charlene Newsom employs her broad knowledge of North Carolina art to curate an extensive exhibition celebrating the most influential North Carolina artists of the twentieth century. This annual exhibition includes landmark pieces and some of the most important North Carolina art from the twentieth century. Historic artists such as Francis Speight, Sarah Blakeslee, Hobson Pittman, and Edith London will be included. The highlight of this year’s exhibition is the Portrait of Sir Walter Raleigh from the year 1588. The oil-on-oak panel was painted in England soon after Walter Raleigh was knighted by Queen Elizabeth and his two attempts at settlements in Roanoke. galleryc.net
Anne Heartt Gregory
5 POINTS GALLERY | MARCH 20–APRIL 12
When it comes to a predetermined conclusion, 5 Points Gallery’s featured artist Anne Heartt Gregory is not interested. Her abstract paintings veer off the path of initial intention, and that’s fine with her. In her latest offerings, the Durham artist turns to a bright palette and compositions that lift upward. Indeed, “rising up” is a frequent theme in her work. The signature painting Passage (pictured on right) has a whirl of movement around the edges with a less obvious mandorla shape in the center. This iconographic almond shape, which resembles a boat, mask, leaf, or eye, is rife with symbolic meaning throughout sacred art. Here it may offer shelter from the storm. Reception and meet-the-artist during Durham’s Third Friday Art Walk, March 21 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 5pointsgallery.com
Freedom: Forward March
ELLA WEST GALLERY | THROUGH MAY 10
Featuring twenty-four works by artists Rigoberto Mena, Tokie Rome-Taylor, Clarence Heyward, and more, Freedom: Forward March presents photography, largescale abstract expressionism, collage, and portraiture. Ella West Gallery founder Linda Shropshire shares, “The concepts of freedom addressed here encompass the right to express oneself openly and to determine our own paths, and these artists embody those pursuits.” Located at 104 W. Parrish Street in Durham, the gallery is open to the public Thursday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m., with private appointments available upon request. ellawestgallery.com
Meet the Designer
Kristie McGowan, Kristie McGowan Home
Favorite Style Traditional with a twist
Why This Palette Classic yet playful; chic when paired with gold
Favorite Product Pick Schumacher wallpaper
9
Pinky Swear
Designer Kristie McGowan demonstrates the playful yet grown-up side
I LOVE THIS palette because shades of pink bring warmth and energy into a space. Pink can be soft and feminine or bold and sophisticated, naturally adding depth and charm. Whether it’s soft blush tones that create a cozy, serene atmosphere or bold shades of magenta that add oomph and personality, pink always feels classic and spirited yet welcoming and stylish. Paired with hints of gold, this color combination is effortlessly chic, balancing elegance with fun. I love mixing traditional elements with modern twists to create spaces that feel timeless and fresh, which defines my unexpected and uniquely personal signature style.
1. Etta Chandelier by Louise Gaskill / contact for pricing / louisegaskill.com
2. Schumacher Plates & Platters Wallpaper / $131 per yard / decoratorsbest.com
3. Diamond Mirror / $1,025 / abchome.com 4. Mirabelle Tufted Rug / starting at $98 / anthropologie.com 5. Sophie Dining Chair, upholstered in Ringo Plum / starting at $950 / coleyhome.com 6. Fuchsia Tassel / $40 / theshadeshop.com 7. Gina Julian OP Print in Sultry 1 / $175 / ginajulian.com 8. Alphaville Dining Table / $3,095 / jonathanadler.com 9. Laraine Glasses in Red / $18 / zeelool.com 10. Society Social Meredith Credenza / $3,655 / shopsocietysocial.com
INTERIORS
The stone fireplace and wood beams add rustic cabin charm while the light-colored nickel-gap walls keep the space light and airy. Chandelier: Visual Comfort. Sofa and pillow fabric: Thibaut. Chair: The MT Company. Draperies: Nile & York. Rug: Nashville Rug Gallery. Table: GJ Styles.
Cozy and Collected
A Blowing Rock home harmoniously blends sentimental heirlooms and modern mountain ambiance.
Text by Brandy Woods Snow
Photography by Michael Blevins
Styling by Christy Day at Christy Day Designs
LLee and Stuart Nunn were searching for a serene getaway close enough to their home in the Piedmont Triad for spontaneous weekend trips but far enough to feel like a true escape. They found it in an early-1900s hunting cottage nestled in the heart of Blowing Rock’s Laurel Park neighborhood. The rustic charm and mountain setting promised the perfect retreat to relax with family, friends, and their beloved Boykin Spaniels while making memories and creating new traditions.
“Covid made us realize that having a change of scenery would be a great mental health refresher,” Lee says. “We knew the hunting cabin was the one when we saw the view.”
The Nunns, personal friends with one of the owners of Barbour Spangle Design, hired the firm to advise on the home’s layout, but what began as a plan to renovate and expand the original structure quickly evolved into a complete rebuild when structural issues were discovered. The project was spearheaded by designers Kate McKee and Judy Burrey. “The scope
of work evolved quite a bit,” says McKee. “We were initially asked to help with the floor plan, but it grew to include finishes, furniture, and, though part of the foundation was salvageable, ultimately an entirely new house.” Despite construction interruptions from the pandemic, supply chain delays, and the challenge of anchoring the home to a steep mountain slope with cantilevered steel beams, construction resumed in mid-2023, and the completed home exceeded all expectations when finished in spring 2024.
The new 3,500-square-foot home features three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, and expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that served as the cornerstone of its design. Lee’s collections of original art, antiques, and her handcrafted ceramics bring a sense of character and history to the space, while textural details like mushroom board ceilings, elegant stonework, and nickel-gap walls echo Stuart’s love of unique materials. Inherited heirlooms, such as a crystal newel post finial and a door knocker from Lee’s childhood home, are thoughtfully showcased, adding sentimental value and a personal touch to the interiors. Salvaged elements from the original cabin, such as wood paneling found in the crawl space and repurposed windows and doors used on the wet bar and upstairs hallway, further connect the past to the present.
Pops of green—Lee’s favorite color—are infused into the decor in each room, a unifying thread that creates flow and connectivity in the home. Earthy elements like stone fireplaces, wooden ceiling beams, and custom cabinetry throughout are complemented by high ceilings, Benjamin Moore White Dove paint, and lightcolored window treatments to soften the space and create harmony between rustic and modern elements.
Functionality was equally important. The home was designed to accommodate the Nunns’ lifestyle, from hosting family and guests to ensuring durability for their dogs. Expansive windows frame breathtaking mountain views while strategic lighting enhances the home’s naturally darker spaces.
“The goal was to toe the line between timeless chic and a cozy mountain cabin, showcasing their amazing collections while not distracting from the views,” says Burrey. The result is a home that feels collected yet livable, sophisticated yet inviting—a retreat that is as beautiful as it is meaningful.
“The entire house is so special. The kitchen is my happy place and views from the deck are incredible,” Lee says. “We could not be more satisfied. Stuart and I wanted a curated home that incorporated our meaningful family pieces into the design, and the final product is layered and beautiful.”
The door knocker, taken from the homeowner’s childhood home, sets a welcoming and nostalgic tone, and the rich green hue of the front door adds a pop to the tonal stacked-stone facade. Door paint color: Benjamin Moore Backwoods.
The inherited chairs were relacquered and recovered to give them new life. Chandelier: Visual Comfort. Dining chair fabric: Universal Furniture.
Relaxation is a given in the spa-like owner’s bath with its unimpeded views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cabinetry: Banner’s Cabinets. Fixtures: Rohl. Chandelier: Hudson Valley Lighting. Hardware: Rocky Mountain Hardware.
Zellige tile applied to the vent hood emphasizes the verticality of the space on a large kitchen wall. Cabinetry: Banner’s Cabinets. Backsplash: clé. Counter stools: Arhaus. Pendants: Regina Andrew. Appliances: Sub-Zero and Wolf.
Chores are much more pleasurable when done in a beautiful space. The custom cabinetry is the rustic star of the show in this utilitarian space, and the tile floors are durable enough for the family dogs. Cabinetry: Banner’s Cabinets. Faucet: Kingston Brass. Flooring: Florida Tile. Sconce: Regina Andrew.
LEFT:
ABOVE: Wood from the original cabin’s crawl space was used for paneling and adds rustic flair in the main hallway. Artwork: Mary Breneman. Paint: Benjamin Moore White Dove.
Textured grasscloth and mitered nickel-gap wall paneling echoes the homeowners' love of unique materials and evokes the organic beauty of the surrounding mountainside. Wallpaper: Thibaut. Bed: Universal Furniture. Nightstands: Universal Furniture. Lamps: Legend of Asia.
Just outside the downstairs owner’s suite, this cozy sitting area is the perfect place to have a glass of wine while the dogs curl up on the rug. Chairs: Sunpan. Chandelier: Visual Comfort. Rug: Jaipur.
In the upstairs owner’s bedroom, the rustic beams and ceiling are painted and paired with softer shades of sage to create a soft yet luxe getaway. Bed: Universal. Sconces: Visual Comfort. Nightstands: Woodbridge. Paint: Benjamin Moore Classic Gray. Pillows: Kelly Ventura.
HOME Away from HOME
ONE COUPLE BUILDS A QUIET COTTAGE ON THEIR MOUNTAIN ESTATE AS A GETAWAY NEXT DOOR.
TEXT BY BLAKE MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA ROUTH BARZIN
“We fell in love with the swivel chair fabric because of the beautiful golden yellow, chartreuse, and blue in it,” says designer Lauren Robbins of the pair of chairs swathed in a Milton Textiles fabric in the living room. Drapery fabric: Nobilis. Chandelier: Ralph Lauren for Visual Comfort. Rug: Charlotte Rug Gallery.
JJust forty yards or so from a sprawling mountain home on a wooded four-acre lot in Roaring Gap, North Carolina, stands a similar but smaller quaint cottage. One might call it a guest house, but for the homeowners of the main property, they call it home. “We have a large family—four grown kids and five grandchildren, and when we all get together, we’re bursting at the seams,” says the owner. “We wanted a bit of respite away from the chaos.”
Sixteen years after the main residence was completed, the Greensboro couple commenced design on the guest cottage in 2022. With the help of Charlottesville, Virginia-based architect Madison Spencer, Augusta, Georgia-based designer Lauren Robbins, and the homeowners’ daughter
The okra yellow on the kitchen cabinets became a subconscious theme in every fabric and wallpaper choice the design team pulled. Robbins leaned in, layering subtle accents of the hue throughout the home. Cooktop backsplash: Winchester by Original Style. Chair fabric (front): Material
Mary Frances Manning, a designer who works for Robbins, the blueprint laid out a cozy 2,300-squarefoot three-bedroom home that encouraged intimate gatherings and a quiet retreat for two.
With minimal directives on the interior design, Robbins set to work pulling together an aesthetic that felt equal parts intimate and cheerful. “We really wanted to play off of this cozy cottage feel,” explains Robbins. “We wanted it to be inviting and welcoming, which is why we chose warm golden undertones, greens that have this richness to them, and blues that really pop. We wanted it to be like an inviting storybook house.”
As Robbins and Manning began pulling fabrics and wallcoverings, one thing continually bubbled to the surface, creating a unifying theme. “We kept seeing this rich gold and okra yellow in everything we’d pull for this project,” says Robbins. “That golden color became a consistent theme, and we made a point to incorporate it into every room, especially downstairs.” Custom shakerstyle cabinetry in a bespoke goldenrod finish set the tone in the kitchen while whimsical-patterned café curtains by Sister Parish Design and a playful Material Works vinyl fabric on the chairs bring down the volume of the bold hue. “My client wanted this home to feel warmer and cozier than their vacation home in Florida. The best way to embrace the warmth is to bring color in, especially in the cabinetry and built-ins, so that’s exactly what we did.”
In the adjacent living room, against the backdrop of wide tongue-and-groove walls, custom built-ins are color-drenched in sage green, the color also popping up in other subtle details throughout, like tape on the throw pillows, gingham print on the artwork matting, the downstairs powder room floral vine wallpaper by Erika M. Powell Textiles, and even upstairs in the guest bedroom’s bedding. Every detail builds upon the next, resulting in a warm, carefully curated aesthetic that feels natural and inviting.
“This home is the epitome of a cottage,” says Robbins. “It feels very collected where every piece tells a story. It feels as though it’s been built over time.” For the homeowners, the design hit all the marks. “I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but I implicitly trusted Lauren and Mary Frances. We’re just overjoyed with it. It’s such a happy place.”
The set of six framed intaglios enliven a once bare corner of the living room. The yellow-and-navy gingham check on the matting is a nod to the goldenrod hue used throughout the home. Custom matte board: Fleurons d’Hélène. Chair fabric: Material Works. Roman shade fabric: Nobilis.
Works. Café curtain fabric: Sister Parish Design.
After considering wallpaper for the mudroom, Robbins opted to let bold navy custom cabinetry color the room instead. “It still needed something else, though,” says the designer, who added the Scalamandré wallpaper to the ceiling for a finishing touch.
ABOVE: The oversized blue-and-white gingham wallpaper in the guest bedroom’s en suite bathroom was the perfect scale and detail to the adjoining blush pink room. Wallpaper: Schumacher.
LEFT: Inspiration for the owner’s bedroom came from a Lee Jofa floral drapery fabric. “The client has a home in Florida that is light and airy, and she wanted to have the feel of her Florida home in her bedroom,” says Robbins. “The warm yellow undertones pulled in the colors from the rest of the home.” Coverlet: John Robshaw.
ABOVE: One of two guest en suites with matching layouts, this lavender bedroom boasts a window niche complete with a double bed for extra sleeping accommodations. “My grandchildren love sleeping in these little nooks,” says the homeowner. Headboard and bed fabrics: Ferrick Mason. Rug: Stark. Bench fabric: Ferrick Mason.
OPPOSITE: “We wanted the downstairs powder room to be bold and interesting, but it had to make sense with the rest of the home’s design,” says Robbins. “The green in the leaves of the wallpaper calls to the cabinetry in the living room.” Wallpaper: Erika M. Powell Textiles. Vanity: Custom.
PEACE RESTORING
An Asheville vacation home becomes a natural respite to relax and unplug.
Text by Brandy Woods Snow
Photography by Dustin and Susie Peck
From the tall windows to the expansive walls, the living room presented quite the challenge, but the result was rewarding. Finding balance and symmetry keeps it cozy without inhibiting the surrounding views.
Sofas: Crate & Barrel. Game table: Dovetail Furniture. Bar cart: Four Hands. Coffee table: Noir. Paint: Benjamin Moore Simply White.
vacation getaway in picturesque Western North Carolina was always on the homeowners’ bucket list. After working with designer Liz Goldberg on their primary residence in Raleigh, the family of four entrusted her to transform a 4,000-squarefoot, four-bedroom Asheville home into a bright, welcoming escape tailored to their lifestyle.
“Having lived in the greater Asheville area before, we’d dreamed of finding a home here to enjoy the outdoors, vibrant arts and music scene, and tightknit community. When this wooded property with abundant natural light came up for sale, we knew we had to act quickly,” says the homeowner.
The family envisioned a peaceful retreat to vacation, host loved ones, and unplug from daily life. With busy schedules, they handed over creative control, and Goldberg delivered a seamless,
full-scale redesign in a single phase. “Our goal was to enhance functionality while imbuing the home with personality,” Goldberg explains.
Working with a local contractor, the designer executed extensive updates, restoring the home’s original unique features from its 2004 construction—stone floors, wooden ceilings, and a copper hood in the kitchen— and modernizing its overall aesthetic. The kitchen and bathrooms received custom cabinetry as well as new tiles, countertops, and lighting. Plumbing fixtures were replaced, and a modern lighting plan brightened every corner. Goldberg sourced all-new furniture, window treatments, artwork, and decor, blending natural materials with playful elements for a warm yet sophisticated aesthetic. Modern and vintage pieces elevate the design, while curated local pottery and a collection of vintage copper vessels add mountain charm.
Relaxing in this colordrenched bedroom is like being wrapped in a warm hug. Paint: Sherwin-Williams Smoky Azurite. Artwork: Zoe Bios Creative. Chandelier: Visual Comfort. Nightstand: Ave Home. Custom draperies: Otis Textiles.
The living room highlights the home’s expansive windows, offering lush mountain views—a challenge and an advantage in the redesign. Goldberg selected rust velvet sofas with low backs to preserve sight lines, adding swivel chairs, a bar cart, and a game table with reupholstered vintage chairs to encourage connection. Adjacent, the fireside lounge, with plush chairs flanking the double-sided fireplace, is ideal for curling up with a book or glass of wine.
Upstairs, the loft-turned-family-room offers multifunctionality. Custom earthy-green cabinetry houses the home’s only television, reflecting the family’s desire to prioritize conversation and relaxation. A plaid sectional, nature-inspired pillows, and tapestry-upholstered ottomans enhance the cozy atmosphere, while zones for reading, gaming, and relaxing cater to quality time.
In the dining room, an extendable table and deep leather chairs invite lingering meals. Ochrepatterned Roman shades and vintage copper molds nod to the mountain setting, while open stone flooring seamlessly connects the space to the entryway. The bedrooms, designed as intimate retreats, feature layered bedding, warm wood tones, and curated decor that exudes cozy indulgence. Expansive windows frame stunning views throughout, and local artisan pieces—from pottery to sconces—add unique character.
“We loved the challenge of updating the whole home without major construction. Using natural colors and textures is something we excel at, and this home perfectly showcases these elements,” Goldberg says. “This was a fun project, mixing natural elements with whimsy.”
“Our space is warm, comfortable, and perfect for relaxing with family and friends,” the homeowner says. “We simply wouldn’t have had the vision without Liz’s work.”
The result is a serene getaway where natural tones—rust, ochre, green, and dusty blues—echo the surrounding landscape, and every detail invites relaxation. Blending contemporary updates with select vintage touches and nods to the home’s original mountain charm, this Asheville retreat truly embodies the great escape.
With windows flooding the space with natural light, this home office could easily double as a sunroom, bringing the outside in. Paint: Sherwin-Williams Dried Thyme. Chair: Dovetail Furniture.
Doing dishes isn’t nearly so mundane with a view like this. The original double sinks were replaced with one larger one, increasing functionality and maneuverability.
Sink: House of Rohl/Shaws. Hardware: ALNO Hardware. Faucet: House of Rohl. Countertops and sink backsplash:
Bello quartz.
Calacatta
Visible from the front entry, the pantry door was crafted locally with gorgeous wood and glass panels, and finished nicely with unlacquered brass hardware to patina over time. Pantry door: Custom. Hardware: ALNO. Plumbing: House of Rohl. Countertops: Calacatta Bello quartz. Cabinetry paint: Benjamin Moore Thunder.
The owner’s bedroom is a relaxing retreat, which replaces electronics with cozy mountain vibes. A cozy chair is the perfect place to read, relax, and soak in the Blue Ridge ambiance. Chair: Four Hands. Ottoman: CB2. Lighting: Hudson Valley Lighting.
Festive flowers picked on the property match the ochre ceiling and custom lacquered bed. A vintage basket and some antique skis impart the warmth of a cozy mountain retreat. Dresser: Lulu and Georgia.
RESOURCES
for outdoor living furniture and accessories sourced from the finest domestic and global manufacturers.
Patio Perk-Up
A springtime renewal of outdoor furniture provides months of warm-weather enjoyment.
Patio Pro is Raleigh’s resource
COURTESY OF KINGSLEY BATE
Text by Dana W. Todd
Kingsley Bate: Hana Collection
AS ANOTHER spring season begins, it’s time to dust off the outdoor furniture and enjoy alfresco relaxation and entertaining. But what if you discover your patio furniture needs a refresh? Homeowners have been shopping at Patio Pro’s fully stocked Raleigh showroom for twenty-three years to revive their outdoor living spaces, from patios to porches to poolside.
“It’s rewarding to see a customer from 2001 return to the showroom to replace cushions or shop new styles,” says Andy Jacob, owner of Patio Pro. “We serve homeowners throughout life’s transitions, when they are renovating, upsizing, and downsizing.”
Patio Pro’s in-depth knowledge of the outdoor furniture industry, their high-quality products, and their complimentary design assistance help homeowners navigate the buying process, successfully mixing and matching furniture styles and product lines to achieve their desired look. “Customers love our low-pressure shopping environment and how we direct them through the extensive range of manufacturers’ products to find the perfect combination of pieces to style their outdoor rooms,” Jacob says. “Our convenient location on Glenwood Avenue, in proximity to interior furniture stores, makes it easy for homeowners to coordinate indoor and outdoor furniture purchases for a seamless look.”
Specializing exclusively in outdoor furniture, Patio Pro has its finger on the pulse of trends and expands its product lines to ensure the latest styles are readily available. Currently, Jacob sees an interest in natural
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” We serve homeowners throughout life’s transitions.
—Andy Jacob
materials and furniture featuring mixed elements, such as metal with rope or teak with wicker. “To address the demand, we have added a new teak furniture manufacturer, Kingsley Bate, to our showroom this year. We continue to offer a wide range of material choices, including aluminum, wrought iron, outdoor-grade wicker, wood, and synthetic wood furniture. In addition to the products in our showroom, we can order from manufacturers’ catalogs to help homeowners searching for a specialty look,” Jacob says.
Patio Pro’s longevity and corporate stability, paired with its evolving inventory and personalized service, ensure a happy roster of customers. “We spend time educating our customers about the products and helping them design their outdoor spaces. Our well-educated sales staff and delivery service ensure the process is as easy as possible.”
Kingsley Bate: Spencer Collection
Berlin Gardens: Holland Collection
Spa Getawayat Home
Kitchen & Bath Galleries designs a nature-inspired bathroom in the spirit of a spa resort.
Text by Dana W. Todd
WHEN HOMEOWNERS decide it’s time to renovate a bathroom, they typically have a clear list of objectives they want to achieve. That was not the case with these Raleigh homeowners, who had a perfectly functional bathroom. “They were referred to me by one of the general contractors we work with—Hunter Ekin of Ekin Contracting,” says Kitchen & Bath Galleries designer Grisel Odstrcil. “He had suggested we could modernize their space, and I had to present ideas that wowed them.”
She started with one of their pain points: Their shower ceiling was high, which kept the temperature a little chilly. She suggested a steam shower with a lowered ceiling for a cozier atmosphere. Tiled in a soldier course of vertical Riviera Moss ceramic tile from Spain, the boldly colored choice provides sensory stimulation and a botanical vibe. The glass shower surround delivers an open visual flow, eliminating the previously chopped-up space. Custom niches were sized to hold the family’s shower necessities.
The homeowners brought Odstrcil tear sheets of inspirational design ideas. “I learned that they really like organic materials like wood and a specific natureinspired shade of green,” she explains.
The vision for the new design was a spa-like atmosphere, with organic elements introduced through hand-selected materials. A softly curved modern
freestanding tub replaced a dated built-in tub. Odstrcil backed it with a statement wall of wood-look tile in an earthy tone with a raised, fluted surface that provides movement, warmth, and a contemporary vibe. Largeformat floor tiles are reminiscent of marble and contrast with ebony Caesarstone Vanilla Noir quartz countertops with bold creamy veins running across them.
Dura Supreme cabinets made of quarter-sawn white oak feature on-trend slim shaker doors. The latest evolution in cabinetry takes traditional shaker doors and modernizes them with a thinner profile to create a sleek variation of a classically favorite style. “We added luxury touches with modern-styled Phylrich faucets, Top Knobs hardware, and timeless Visual Comfort lighting fixtures and mirrors in a bronze-gold finish,” says Odstrcil.
“Although the layout of the room stayed about the same, the transformation was enormous,” she continues. “This spa-inspired space is organic, restorative, and, at the same time, luxurious.”
“
” This spa-inspired space is organic, restorative, and, at the same time, luxurious.
—Grisel Odstrcil
Brentwood Flooring America has been the Triangle’s most comprehensive source for flooring and floor care for more than fifty years.
Floored
Brentwood Flooring America wants homeowners to adore their floors.
Text by Dana W. Todd
SCOTT
HARRY HARLES, CEO of Brentwood Flooring America, insists on high quality from both the product manufacturers and his team of installers. That commitment to excellence is reflected in scores of five-star Google reviews that specifically mention the company’s premier installation services. “We have provided new flooring for renovations for more than fifty years, so the care of our customers’ homes is crucial,” says Harles. “We respect our customers’ spaces and assign a quality control manager to each project to ensure any issues are promptly addressed. On the final day of installation, we call each customer to confirm they’re totally satisfied with their new flooring and the installation process.”
As part of a nationwide cooperative, Brentwood Flooring America carries an impressive selection of flooring options in its Raleigh and Cary showrooms, featuring hardwood, luxury vinyl, carpet, and laminate. Shoppers can count on a variety of products, including high-end brands such as Karastan, Stanton, and Nourison. But Harles doesn’t want the large number of options to overwhelm anyone. “Our sales associates have creative backgrounds or are designers,” he explains. “They are excellent resources to help homeowners narrow the choices and styles that will work for their homes. The co-op relationship enables us to have strong buying power, so we can pass on those savings to our customers. It also allows us to have the most comprehensive showrooms around.”
There are tools and tricks for those who prefer browsing solo to discover new ideas for their homes. Each flooring sample on the showroom floor has a QR code that provides more information, such as specifications, color options, and inspirational room scenes. The showrooms
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” We dot the i’s and cross the t’s when it comes to taking care of our customers.
—Harry Harles
are arranged by color and category to make it easy to find a particular product. The Room Visualizer tool on the company’s website lets customers upload a photo of their room, giving them a custom preview of how different flooring styles and colors will look in their space.
The showrooms offer extra services that go above and beyond the typical retailer. As a member of the American Society of Interior Designers, the company collaborates with designers, offering demonstrations and presentations to guide their decision-making for clients. The Raleigh workroom fabricates and binds custom area rugs and stair runners in-house for quick turnaround—a novel service among flooring retailers.
Harles adds, “We dot the i’s and cross the t’s when it comes to taking care of our customers.”
Selling Smart
SELLING A HOME is more than just a transaction; it’s an emotional journey. For many, it’s saying goodbye to countless memories. It’s where children grew up, where holiday dinners brought loved ones together, or where you celebrated life’s milestones. While the thought of moving on to your next dream home is exciting, letting go of the past can sometimes cloud your vision when preparing your home for sale. That’s where The Coley Group comes in— to provide clarity, strategy, and a tailored approach to get your home market-ready while honoring the story it holds. We start by helping you view your home through a buyer’s eyes. Often, homeowners overlook signs of
deferred maintenance—peeling wallpaper, scratched floors, or dated fixtures—because they’ve lived with them for years. These small details can make a big impression on potential buyers. With the support of our trusted contractors and occasionally the Compass Concierge program, we handle updates like fresh paint, modern lighting, and thoughtful staging that transform your home into one buyers can’t resist.
Selling isn’t just about the fixes; it’s about understanding who your buyer is. We create a tailored buyer persona for every home, considering its unique features, location, and value. For example, perhaps your home is in a fantastic
THE COLEY GROUP
Gretchen Coley Contributor
LUXURY LIVING
Text by Gretchen Coley, Founding Principal of The Coley Group
school district. You may be an empty nester, but we would market your home to parents with school-age children. What you may have used as a home office can be staged as the optimal nursery for expectant parents. For another home, a playroom off the kitchen may be better staged as a scullery for homebuyers who love to entertain. By highlighting what matters most to likely buyers, we help them see your home as their next chapter.
Design also plays a crucial role in maximizing your home’s potential. Neutral, on-trend updates like soft, modern hues and updated lighting can elevate your home’s appeal without losing its character. The difference these changes make is undeniable. We’ve seen homes that struggled to attract interest become top contenders on the market after a few simple updates.
Selling your home is about more than just the numbers; it’s about creating a lasting first impression. You only get one chance to bring your home to market, and our approach ensures that chance is your best one. Whether you’re planning to sell now or years down the road, we’re here to provide guidance on how to invest in your home to maintain and grow its value. We do whatever it takes to move your home at the quickest pace for the highest return-on-investment possible.
Every seller deserves a luxury-level experience, regardless of price point. From crafting a bespoke marketing strategy to staging that speaks to buyers’ dreams, we ensure your home stands out. Selling a home is a big step, but with the right guidance, it can also be the start of something extraordinary.
“Fresh paint, modern lighting, and thoughtful staging transform your home into one buyers can’t resist.”
Learn more at thecoleygroup.com or call 984-254-3930.
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Flooring Featured: SmartStrand Silk Finley in Brownstone (11444_90116)
Poolside
THE POOL IS MORE than just a hardscaping element; it’s an integral part of the landscape design. The right plants and elements placed around it create a retreat that makes the yard more inviting.
Most pools are in an open area of the yard, away from leaf-dropping trees. Unfiltered sunlight, plus reflected heat from surrounding concrete and tile, create a scorching environment ideal for sun-loving plants. Sun-seekers often boast vibrant colors; Portulaca and
dwarf Butterfly Bush, for instance, add color and longlasting blooming power from spring until the first frost of autumn. Pergolas, cabanas, and other heat-reducing structures block the sun’s rays and provide homeowners with personalized style.
The pool surround is usually the warmest part of the yard, but there are microclimates around it. The north side of the pool is milder and allows cooler-weather plants, like Rhododendron, to thrive. The hotter south
CHIP HENDERSON
David Payne
Contributor
OUTDOOR OASIS
Text by David Payne, Owner of Home & Garden Landscapes
side of the pool is an optimal place to include cold-hardy palms that flourish in our area.
Fragrance is a pleasing way to add a retreat-like feel. Fragrant shrubs with multiple bloom times, such as Osmanthus and Gardenia, calm us. They signal it’s time to escape and are the perfect accompaniment to this part of the yard since they rarely drop leaves or blooms to litter the pool deck.
Adding privacy is another way to enhance the sanctuary-like experience of lounging by the pool. Hedges of tall Holly bushes provide an evergreen screen from neighbors. They drop few leaves, and when the heavy leaves do fall, they stay under the bush so blowing winds won’t move them into the pool water. Rapidly growing Ligustrum offers another opportunity for a quick evergreen border to provide a sense of isolation. Garden art and hardscaping elements complete the area and solve functional issues. Large boulders create an artistic statement and provide natural seating around a firepit, and colorful decorative pots of annuals add visual interest and define the corners of the outdoor living area. What signals a vacation mindset more than a tropical vibe? Windmill palms, needle palms, and ornamental grasses swaying in the breeze create that coastal style. With non-invasive root systems, they are ideal when planted next to concrete and tile pavers. For a SoCal look, opt for the drought-tolerant Hollywood Juniper.
A professional landscaper can help transform your existing or planned pool into an oasis with smart choices customized for your location.
“The pool is an integral part of the landscape design.”
A family owned luxury design-build firm, Old North State Landscape Development, Inc., crafts creative high-end outdoor living spaces that elevate everyday life in your own private resort.
Transform the exterior landscape of your home with our team of highly skilled designers, project managers, craftsmen, and builders. We are a custom general contractor in the Triangle area specializing in turn-key services from design to installation of pools, cabanas, hardscapes, and landscapes. You can expect exceptional service with a focus on quality, attention to detail, superior standards, and customer satisfaction.
1. 14K Yellow Gold Heart Canvas Charm by Gabrielle Fine Jewelry
“I love to mix and match old and new jewelry. Layering my one-hundredyear-old locket with a handmade charm adds a little color for spring.”
2. Double-face Cashmere Scarf by Lan Jaenicke
“I got one and gifted one and have worn it nonstop. It can be worn a number of different ways and feels very polished with little effort.”
“Created by a potter in West Oakland, they have a modern edge and are offered in some excellent colorways. The citreum and aubade are my favorites. They make me so happy with each use. They merge style and functionality.”
Gabe Bratton Hall
LUCKY FOR Gabe Bratton Hall, she’s surrounded by interior designers, so when she has a question about what to do in her own home, she doesn’t have to look far. “My sister and many of my best friends are interior designers, and I am always looking at their work for inspiration,” the Raleigh native says. Not that she needs it. The jewelry designer and brainchild behind Gabrielle Fine Jewelry, Bratton Hall has a natural talent for all things stylish and fashion-forward. This is apparent not only in her stunning jewelry that doubles as artwork but also in her personal style and the San Francisco home she shares with her husband and two children. “Kind of like with jewelry, I love for things in my home to have a story and an intention behind them,” she says. “I also love layering textures and colors similar to my jewelry designing/styling process.” Here, the University of Georgia alum tells us what she’s loving this spring.
4. Marie Kondo Kawaii Pouches
“These pouches are the key to organization and are perfect for storing it all, from jewelry to papers to children's toys—you name it."
5. LESET White Pointelle Cardigan
“This cardigan brings back memories of fresh school clothes in the late summer—crisp, clean, full of possibility. It is a staple that deserves to be repurchased year after year."
6. Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick
“You truly can't go wrong with any shade. They have one to suit every skin tone, mood, or color preference. A swipe of this on top of BIologique Recherche Crème gives you the most radiant glow."
7. Biologique Recherche Crème Pigm 400
“A splurge, but it really makes me feel freshfaced. It leaves a little glow on your skin.”
