HDD Triangle Mar/Apr 2024 Issue

INSPIRING HOMES. BEYOND EXPECTATIONS.

AN AWARD WINNING custom home builder in the Triangle area, Blue Heron Signature Homes is dedicated to building their clients the luxury home they've dreamed of.

Our attention to detail, experience and commitment to excellence speaks through in our craftsmanship, communication, and dedication.

With a strong foundation of trust, integrity and experience in the luxury market, Blue Heron Signature Homes values each aspect of the home building process. Our clients are the heart-beat of what we do, day in and day out.

We believe a custom home should leave you truly inspired. The home building process should remain exhilarating, personal and enjoyable while our team of architects, designers and construction personnel make a breathtaking vision come to life.

Our goals run parallel with our mission: build the life you want to live, through excellence.

KJ CONSTRUCTION, INC. was founded in 1996 by Steven Kjellberg in Raleigh, NC.

Over the last 28 years, Steven perfected his craft as a hands-on builder and high-end remodeler. To this day, Steven is seen on his job sites every day throughout the entire construction process. By remaining hands-on, KJ Construction is able to control the utmost quality and manage important timelines during the

construction process. This ensures that our customers' dreams and expectations are met and exceeded.

The Triangle area of NC has seen a growing demand for high quality, sustainable custom homes and remodeling. We are proud to say that KJ Construction is meeting that demand by being a second generation building company with the addition of Steven’s son, Axel Kjellberg.

As with any custom building project, there are a myriad of emotions that our customers experience from stress to elation during the building process. By being so intimately involved in your project from start to finish, and post move in, we strive to make this one of the most rewarding experiences you can imagine.

Let’s Build your Dream! Build with KJ Construction, Inc.

PHOTOS BY CATHERINE NGUYEN

NORWOOD RIDGE

Norwood Ridge is a gated community in North Raleigh that aims to create a harmonious living environment, blending privacy and nature seamlessly. The neighborhood has partnered with three award winning home builders dedicated to designing homes that integrate with nature and exceed the expectations of the residents.

Choose from designing a custom home or selecting one of our homes under construction.

MARCH / APRIL 2024

FEATURES

46 TOWER OF LIGHT

Atop a high dune on Figure Eight Island stands a magnificent architectural gem.

58 ART DECO LEGACY

One Raleigh couple skews away from traditional in their Art Deco–inspired new build.

68 MEMORY MAKER

A Wrightsville Beach cottage is transformed into a contemporary getaway.

MICHAEL BLEVINS; ABIGAIL JACKSON

Sheri Hagerty, Mary Holmes, Mary-Ellen Santos, and Mae

Sheri - 919.862.6258, Mary - 919.278.8011 | sheri.hagerty@hodgekittrellsir.com

sherihagerty.com | Connect with us @sherihagertygroup

Covering the Triangle & the Triad in North Carolina

GGeorge Harrison wrote Here Comes the Sun while sitting in Eric Clapton’s garden in April of 1969. It’s easy to imagine a warm-ish day in a pretty English garden, taking a deep breath and feeling like everything is going to be alright. Harrison said at the time, “It seems as if winter in England goes on forever. By the time spring comes you really deserve it.”

We all deserve spring by the time it comes around, whenever that may be, because, as the song goes, it’s alright. It feels alright. The days inch toward 8 p.m. sunsets, and the air smells sweeter, newer. The simplicity of the changing weather can remove months of weight that we hadn’t realized collected on our minds.

The escape can be as simple as eating your first alfresco meal in months, it can be as elaborate as a trip to the coast, or it can be as comfortable as slipping away to your second home for the weekend. There’s lightness in all of it, and we’ve filled the pages of this issue with every scenario, hoping it will inspire you to find your escape, take a breath, and know that it’s alright.

Blake Miller and Anne Marie Ashley Co-Editors-in-Chief

PORTRAIT: LAUREN GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY; MICHAEL BLEVINS

CO-EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

ANNE MARIE ASHLEY

BLAKE MILLER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

KARIN SIMONEAU

ART DIRECTOR

LINDSAY RICHARDS

PUBLISHER

MICHAEL KOOIMAN

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

OONAGH MURRAY

WRITERS

BRANDY WOODS SNOW

CHRISTINA SPRATT SPENCER

DANA W. TODD

PHOTOGRAPHY

MICHAEL BLEVINS

ABIGAIL JACKSON

homedesigndecormag.com

SALES

SUE MOONEY

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

SHELLEY KEMPER

PRODUCTION SUPPORT

STACY LONG CATS-UP GRAPHICS

CONTRIBUTORS

DAVID PAYNE WILL STROPE

PHONE  704-741-2774

national origin.” Curated Media, LLC, d.b.a. Triangle Home Design & Decor® Magazine, does not act as an agent for any of the realtors or builders in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified realtor to assist you in your new home purchase.

Experience the next level in luxury real estate when you partner with us. #1 privately owned real estate company in the country. Founding member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Luxury Portfolio International.

Soul Preservation

DESIGNER ROSY ALEXANDER LEAVES A PIECE OF HER STORY IN A HISTORIC INN IN ARKANSAS.

TEXT BY ANNE MARIE ASHLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSY ALEXANDER

When Lacey Hendrix asked close friend Rosy Alexander to design a room in her burgeoning and historic Beard and Lady Inn, she knew it would be an opportunity for excitement, of course, but also to dig deep.

Having grown up in Nepal and emigrating to the United States, Alexander had a unique story buried within herself, and it was one that Hendrix was eager to tell.

“The eleven guest rooms in Beard and Lady are centered around common human fears and stories of overcoming,” explains Hendrix. “I called on my friends to design each of

the rooms around their inspiring personal stories. Rosy has a tenacity that is unmatched. She is a force.” And so, Alexander designed room two against a backdrop of Nepal.

Alexander admits to feeling a little out of water, her practiced contemporary style at odds with a traditional and global design objective. “I design in clean lines and modern aesthetics, probably a result of running away from my grandmother’s cramped home with mud floors in Nepal. I can remember my grandmother literally mixing water and dirt and spreading it around to create the floor of her home, forming a

Nestled in the Ozarks of Arkansas, The Beard and Lady Inn is a historic property filled with personal stories.

terra-cotta surface that tracked you everywhere.” This project forced Alexander to sit in her childhood in Nepal and recall the hardships—and also the beauty—of her hometown while also training her modern design muscles to carry a more traditional style.

Meanwhile, Hendrix was carrying a universe of her own into this inn.

Growing up in Chester, population 144, and coming back after half a lifetime of travels and experiences put everything into perspective.

“I always saw my childhood as wholesome and small,” she says.

“I loved the old architecture in the town, and my family used to reconvene in this inn when it was

an old, run-down 1880s hotel. Now, I want to bring a little of the wider world home.” Between the apothecary next door, the event space, and the inn, Hendrix is doing that, with no plans to slow down. Soon, she will open a nonprofit restaurant attached to the inn called The Hobo’s Table.

But her friends’ stories—that’s where Hendrix lets the inn radiate. Each room comes with a story, alongside a playlist complementary to the tale and a pre-stamped postcard for guests to write their own stories to mail to far-flung places.

“I put a limewash slurry on the brick walls, like my grandmother’s floors; I pulled the sacred cow from

ABOVE: Alexander designed guest room two in the inn with limewashed brick walls as a tribute to her childhood home in Nepal. She left the green beadboard ceiling intact, and accented with sacred cow artwork along with saturated reds to complement the nuetrals throughout.

LEFT: The headboard of the bed is an intricate callback to the storied architecture of Nepal.

THE CENTERPIECE

DESIGN

Nepalese culture into artwork,” Alexander explains. “I used saturated reds common in Nepal design, igniting a color curiosity I didn’t realize I had, and I pulled in the storied architecture from home with the headboard for the bed,” says Alexander.

She also styled the dining hall and communal bathrooms at the inn, combining a mix of antique pieces and art that convey the original 1887 feel that Hendrix envisioned. “The challenge with this project was also the reward,” quips Alexander. “There were historic elements of the building that couldn’t be changed, so I was confined in my design. But that confinement pushed my creativity as well.”

The inn can be rented out entirely for big groups or individual rooms if passing through. Neither option leaves guests wanting for inspiration or meaning. beardandladyinn.com u

Alexander also shopped for and styled the dining hall and the communal-style bathrooms in the inn, in keeping with the 1880s historic style but adding a modern edge.

OASIS

TWO VASTLY DIFFERENT DESTINATIONS, ONE COMMON GOAL: RELAXATION. EXPLORE THE HEALING DESERT OF SEDONA, ARIZONA, OR THE CRYSTAL BLUE WATERS OF THE FLORIDA KEYS.

TEXT BY ANNE MARIE ASHLEY AND BLAKE MILLER

Desert: L’Auberge de Sedona

Nestled amid red rock buttes and pine forests is the mystical town of Sedona, Arizona. Known for its mild climate, vibrant arts community, and healing natural surroundings, Sedona is a mecca for those seeking healing, relaxation, and perhaps a spiritual tuning fork. Tucked along Oak Creek, which runs through the town, luxury resort L’Auberge de Sedona invites you into their creekside sanctuary, where the surrounding eleven acres not only inform the design but also drive the experience.

STAY

The resort features sixty-two luxury cottages, twenty-one traditional lodge-style guest rooms, and a beautiful standalone five-bedroom Creekhouse. Cottages are strewn along the creek, offering expansive and relaxing water or gorgeous red rock vista views. Each stand-alone wood cabin is equally cozy and sumptuous, with whitewashed wood-paneled walls, crisp white sheets, and luxury linens and towels, paired perfectly

with comfy dark-wood king beds, fireplaces, hardwood floors, ample decks, and romantic outdoor showers.

DO

Between the onsite art gallery, traditional and new-age spa treatments, and a bevy of spiritual, wellness, and health activities, L’Auberge is one of the few resorts in Sedona to genuinely embrace the culture of the area. Upon check-in, guests receive a unique crystal and an intention to set for their stay. In-room snacks and services keep spirit and body top of mind, and activities and classes that aim to restore and captivate are included in your stay. Take in a tarot card reading with a mystic, or revel in a sound-healing class that tunes out the world and tunes in your mind. The Goldenstein Gallery artist-in-residence program invites guests to interact with local artists working on their masterpieces right on property, bringing a variety of mediums to the resort, ranging from pointillism and jewelrymaking to clay and wax sculpting for bronze casting.

Creekside Cottage

EAT

The property’s restaurant, Cress on Oak Creek, steers the creekside dining concept in Sedona, offering a distinctive experience in an idyllic setting. Trees dotted with twinkle lights glow during dinner hours, which, when combined with the canopy of trees, give the illusion of a fairy forest. Daytime hours are just as enchanting, giving major glamping vibes to breakfast and lunch. And this is only ambiance—the menu, earning a space on the Food

& Wine Global Tastemakers list of The 15 Best Hotels for Food in the U.S.—is another treat entirely. The food at L’Auberge Sedona is infused with locally foraged, handselected ingredients with a full respect of seasonality. Any of the beef or fish selections in each season prove to be standouts. Wine pairings, highly encouraged by the chef, can be easily suggested by the knowledgeable wait staff. lauberge.com

Cottage Guest Room

Cress on Oak Creek Restaurant

Cress on Oak Creek Restaurant

Island: The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys may be positioned as a laid-back flip flops and tank tops Jimmy Buffett paradise, but those who really know the destination also know that some of America’s most luxurious resorts lie in the Keys north of tourist haven Key West. Follow along US1 to these quiet and secluded properties for a Caribbean-like getaway sans passports and customs.

STAY

In the fall of 2017, Hurricane Irma decimated the middle Florida Keys, leaving in its wake a destruction that has taken years to rebuild. A small, private island off Little Torch Key was in the eye of the storm, which nearly leveled the entire resort that stood on the six-acre land. But with rebuilding often comes even better things. And with Little Palm Island, the six years it took to rebuild the luxury resort, which is only accessible by boat, was well worth the wait. While the thirty luxury thatched-roof bungalows

and suites (as well as the dining, pool, bars, and more) were a sight to behold prior to 2017, today, the updated and rebuilt Balinese-inspired accommodations and public spaces feature a casual but wholly sophisticated aesthetic that encourages relaxation and disconnection. Each of the cottages and suites offers private ocean views complete with an oversized outdoor soaking tub and shower, plush chaise lounges, and gas fire pits prime for pre- and postdinner cocktails.

Little Palm Island

Escape Suite at Little Palm Island

If ultra-seclusion is not high priority, consider staying in Key Largo. While not as private as Little Palm, The Bungalows Key Largo feels as if you’re stepping into an exclusive oceanfront oasis. As the large gates creek open, a winding sandy pathway lined with towering palm trees swaying in the breeze emerges and signals you to exhale. White bungalows with a pair of turquoise Adirondack

chairs are flanked by pink bougainvillea and dot the meandering paths of the property. While there are 135 freestanding coastalinspired cottages, it feels more like thirty as architectural designers and planners perfectly mapped out the resort to make it feel quiet and serene. (The property is so luxurious that even NFL player Jason Kelce and his wife Kylie vacationed here this past November on a bye weekend.)

The Bungalows Key Largo

The Bungalows Key Largo

DO

With a no cell phone in public spaces policy (and not a TV to be found anywhere on the island), the goal is clear at Little Palm: ultimate relaxation. And for those who want to experience the Keys, it’s a must to get out on the water. Visit nearby secluded Keys and sandbars via the free Boston Whalers at Little Palm and anchor up for a morning. Better yet, book a day trip to Key West on the resort’s luxury Hinckley yacht. Little Palm’s concierge will coordinate the entire trip, including water activities along the way, snacks and alcohol, and dining reservations in Key West.

While at the Bungalows, onsite concierges can book daily boat excursions to the nearby Everglades or a sunset sail on the Gulf. Free access to paddle boards and kayaks gives you intimate entry to the many manatees that float and eat the seagrass along the 1,000-foot resort shoreline.

EAT

Little Palm’s onsite restaurant was recognized as the Best Hotel Dining in Florida and #3 Restaurant in the U.S. by Zagat. Accolades aside, the beachside dining on the point of the island is easily one of the most romantic and magical settings in the Keys. At dusk, torches line the shoreline, illuminating dish after dish of freshly caught seafood such as mahi mahi or Key West shrimp. Local Key deer roam free here and often visit your table in hopes of nabbing a crumb from the sand underfoot. littlepalmisland.com

As a luxury all-inclusive, adults-only resort, Bungalows offers a much more expansive menu. Choose from authentic Mexican cuisine to American-inspired seafood fare to a classic steakhouse experience in the resort’s premier dining experience at Bogie & Bacall’s. The elegant steakhouse-style menu boasts locally caught seafood dishes and prime steaks, all of which can be paired with a carefully curated wine selection chosen by the onsite sommelier. Enjoy a post-dinner artisan cocktail at the Hemingway Bar, where mixologists handcraft drinks using locally sourced ingredients. bungalowskeylargo.com u

Shore Club at Little Palm Island

Bogie & Bacall's at The Bungalows Key Largo

Round Trip

WAYFARING INSPIRATIONS THAT PROVE ALL ROADS LEAD TO HOME.

TEXT BY CHRISTINA SPRATT SPENCER | PRODUCED

BY

ANNE MARIE ASHLEY

EN PLEIN AIR

Miami-based maven Tuuci enhances the elegance of both residential and commercial outdoor environments with exceptional shade engineering that is both durable and distinctive. Inspired by their seaside roots, the stylish and sweeping elegance of their parasol silhouettes offer maximum sun protection, transforming any alfresco space into its own desirable destination. summerclassics.com

BUDDY SYSTEM

Wearable, weatherproof, and worryfree, this down alternative and recycled nylon blanket is a perfectly packable companion offering lightweight and easyto-clean moments of comfort, whether at helm or at home. infinitypillow.co

I DREAM OF TRAVEL

Travel + Leisure magazine and Sobel Westex, purveyor of fine hotel linens, introduce their first-ever textile line, bringing the discovery of the siren splendor of four exotic destinations to a deluxe hotel experience designed for the everyday. Meticulously crafted, this line evokes the intoxicating allure of resorts around the globe, transporting you back to the joyful experiences of your travel portfolio in the comfort of home. shop.travelandleisure.com

NATURALLY OCCURRING

Debuting during January’s Paris Deco week and covered on Home Design & Decor’s Instagram takeover by designer Zandy Gammons this past January, British designer Alexander Lamont’s newest collection, Cicada, is a selection of iconic pieces from the brand’s Couture collections of furniture and lighting. Fresh new colors and toneon-tone finishes dot the selections while sumptuous and contemporary textures for vertical surfaces launch a bold exploration into the striking fusion of the natural world with decorative arts. alexanderlamont.com

PAPER ROUTE

Inspired by his picturesque surroundings in Bellport, New York, Chris Benz’s second collection for Wallshoppe blends nostalgia and contemporary design in a preppy but classic reinterpretation of designs that capture coziness and comfort. Evoking the warmth of upholstered walls through unexpected textures reminiscent of quilts, coverlets, and patchwork fabrics, the convivial warmth and vintage charm is felt through unexpectedly dynamic combinations marked with a lighthearted translation. wallshoppe.com

TOTES PREPARED

Strikingly streamlined in style, accessible in versatility, and exuding a discerning European aesthetic, these signature handbags emanate timeless refinement and luxury. Finely hand-finished and delicately detailed vachetta leather evokes an of-themoment modernity. deseri.com

GLOBAL FOOTING

London-based designer Jennifer Manners has teamed up with design house Sanderson for the Icon Collection—a careful adaptation of five of Sanderson’s iconic London-inspired designs reinterpreted for this luxurious legacy capsule. The collection includes Richmond Hill Weaves and Chiswick Grove fabrics, and is crafted from Manners’s award-winning sustainable material, re/PURPOSE Performance, which features 100 percent recycled water bottles that feel like natural wool and result in sumptuously sustainable rugs. jennifermanners.co.uk

The Revivalists

WITH METICULOUS CRAFTSMANSHIP AND POPS OF COLOR, GOOD BONES FURNITURE TURNS TIRED PIECES INTO ONE-OF-A-KIND HEIRLOOMS.

TEXT BY KARIN SIMONEAU | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GOOD BONES

What began as a creative outlet and side hustle has evolved into a flourishing furniture restoration company called Good Bones, whose aim is to transform each piece into a unique treasure, often by way of color.

Founders Chris Heard and Jason Emerline were neighbors who bonded over a shared love of painting furniture. They soon found themselves spending more and more time converting thrift-store furniture and client-owned pieces into like-new form. In December 2017, they decided to go all-in on their passion and start the venture that perfectly marries Heard’s artistic talents with Emerline’s entrepreneurial spirit, and, as Heard puts it, “we were off to the races.”

In addition to revamping client-owned pieces, they carefully scour Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores, acquiring pieces new and vintage. “Nine times out of ten, a vintage piece will have a better design, more details, and be built to last,” states Heard.

Each piece in their possession goes through a painstaking process of being professionally sprayed with a pre-catalyzed lacquer, color-matched to any paint color, enabling the team to customize it with a smooth, durable finish in the chosen color. “The real key to a great finish is diligent preparation

or taking on client-owned pieces, Good Bones Furniture applies professional finishes to breathe new life into worn and weary items.

work—sanding, sanding, and more sanding—prior to going into the paint booth,” notes Emerline.

While most of their pieces are sold on Instagram, they can also be purchased from their website and shipped anywhere in the lower forty-eight states. “We ship almost 80 percent of our furniture,” says Emerline, “making unique, high-end pieces accessible to almost everyone.”

Known for their superior customer service and high-caliber items, Good Bones Furniture’s stellar reputation is well-earned. And they continue to grow. The duo is intent on expanding their local customer base as well as their designer clients. “We love working with interior designers,” says Heard. Also on deck: wood finishing. “Not only do we want to add a pop of color with our tinted lacquer finishes, but we also want to offer beautiful, refinished wood pieces,” explains Emerline.

After transforming myriad pieces into exquisite heirlooms, they have no plans of slowing down as they relish the joy they get from a rewarding career creating quality, sought-after furniture. “There is something extremely gratifying about taking an old, tired piece of furniture and transforming it into a showroom piece,” states Heard. u

TOTALLYORGANIZED

Lindsey Gregg

For designer Lindsey Gregg of Big Sky Design, design is all about relationships—not only the relationship between client and designer, but also the relationship between elements of a design.

This recent makeover is a great example. Gregg’s longtime clients came to her with a complete kitchen and mudroom renovation, alongside some updates to the den and adjacent dining room. The challenge was creating cohesion between all four rooms. The design needed to be durable for a young family, and it also needed to flow naturally.

“I installed the chinoiserie mural on silver grasscloth in the dining room to create some tension between light and dark and masculine and feminine,” explains Gregg, keeping the relationship front of mind. Dark mahogany furniture inherited from the couples’ family grounds the space while a modern green-and-blue ikat Thibaut fabric revives a great-grandmother’s dining chairs. Pulling from the neutral background of the wallpaper, Gregg selected furnishings for the adjacent den upholstered in performance fabrics, alongside a pastel-hued oushak rug to marry the two spaces. “The whimsical chandelier centered on the shared cased opening serves as the perfect statement piece,” she adds. Now the family can enjoy everything from entertaining friends to hosting holiday gatherings to relaxing in front of the den’s television.

1. Suki Lamp / $329 / visualcomfort.com

2. Wonderland: Adventures in Decorating, by Summer Thornton / $45 / bigskyshoponline.com

3. Mark Cocktail Table / $5,513 / centuryfurniture.com

4. Seedlings Wall Art / $480 / hableconstruction.com

5. Vintage Moroccan Rug / $2,800 / bigskyshoponline.com

6. Hawes Tapered Sconce / to the trade / vancollier.com

7. Regan Host Chair / to the trade / highlandhousefurniture.com

8. The Gardens Vol. 1 Wallcovering, Cole & Son / to the trade / kravet.com

A SOOTHING BLEND OF NEUTRALS WITH JUST ENOUGH ETHEREAL COLOR TO KEEP IT INTERESTING.

PRODUCED BY ANNE MARIE ASHLEY

There is a lot to be said for a neutral palette, the least of which is how soothing it can be to the senses. Beige doesn’t have to be boring, and tan isn’t always tough. Spanning the range of cocoa cream, canyon peach, and blush beige, an earthy palette brings a sense of calm and envelopment that can be a balm to a chaotic soul. Punches of the palest blue hint at the possibility of interest, depending on the saturation or the inclination. Earth and air crash together in an ultimate battle of serenity and strength.

Designer Josh Maniaci created this soothing and earthy bedroom for a client, calling on a range of earthy tones with a pop of airy blue.

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YOUR PROJECT IS OUR PRIORITY

Our showrooms are designed to inspire, with bath, kitchen and lighting choices from top brands curated in beautiful, hands-on displays. From product selection to delivery coordination, an industry expert will be there to support your project every step of the way.

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MICHAEL BLEVINS

TOWER OF LIGHT

TEXT BY BLAKE MILLER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BLEVINS

ATOP A HIGH DUNE STANDS ONE OF FIGURE EIGHT ISLAND’S MOST STRIKING HOMES.

Architects James Selvitelli and Steve Herlong of Herlong Architecture + Interiors designed the Figure Eight Island home with a three-story curved and floating staircase. The striking structure is framed within a window-filled tower that serves a practical purpose but is also an architectural marvel from the outside and in. The landscape design is by Classic Landscapes.

PPEEKING THROUGH the palm trees and Spanish moss as you drive up the winding road to the beach stands a magnificent glowing structure. Rounding the corner, the source of light emerges and a striking home fills the horizon. It’s an architectural sight to behold on a beach where tiny cottages from the 1980s mingle with modern spectacles dotting the shoreline. Standing three-stories tall on top of a high dune, like a tower of light from the shore, it’s clear: this is not your average beach bungalow.

Sweeping ocean views to the front and glimpses of the marsh behind, the long, narrow lot on Figure Eight Island is ideal, which is exactly what architects James Selvitelli and Steve Herlong of Herlong Architecture + Interiors honed in on. “This home was all about the views, and the best view of all would be from the top of the home, atop that high dune,” says Selvitelli. “The home has a reverse floor plan to take advantage of the amazing sound and ocean views from the second floor.

Reverse floor plans are always an interesting challenge for architects and interior designers. We need to create a welcoming foyer that feels grand enough to draw guests up to the living level, but also balance the challenge of using allowable square footage wisely.”

To break up the pattern of the Rebecca Atwood wallpaper in the powder room, Sedalik added painted shiplap in a complementary hue. The custom cabinetry is by Coastal Cabinets while the mirror and light fixture are by Palecek.

Designer Cintra Sedalik and the team of architects incorporated pecky cypress into the home’s cathedral ceilings, resulting in a striking, warm, enveloped feel. The dining room’s custom walnut table by Duvall & Co. along with custom Palecek chairs in a Perennials fabric complement the organic touch of the ceiling.

OPPOSITE:

because it abstractly resembles ocean waves.

With its intricate rooflines that fit together perfectly like a puzzle, the home itself was designed around a winding stairway that leads from the ground entry to the top floor. “The stairway really sets the tone for this home,” says Selvitelli. The spiral stair with its silvered Ipe-wood railing wraps around the center of the home like a coil. “It’s truly the architectural gem of this project,” says Herlong designer Cintra Sedalik.

Each stop on the stairway leads to a private elevator entry and living quarters, with the owner’s suite, main living room, and kitchen taking up the top floor boasting the most impressive views. There were few criteria from the homeowners, save for incorporating pecky cypress throughout the home.

A nod to the couple’s frequent visits to The Cloister at Sea Island, this warmly finished coastal wood lines the vaulted

The bunk room was designed to double as a family room where the homeowners’ adult children can comfortably stay, but it also serves as a space for their grandchildren to sleep. Custom bunk beds by Coastal Cabinets pair well with playful wallpaper by Elizabeth Ockford.

While at The Cloister at Sea Island, the homeowners discovered the unique look and feel of pecky cypress, and incorporated it into the vaulted ceilings of the family and dining rooms, and the kitchen. The initial interior design inspiration was also rooted in the client’s love of natural stone and appreciation of natural materials. Sedalik chose slabs of Maya quartzite from Brazil for the backsplash

Just beyond the elevator foyer, the hanging stairway was an engineering feat for the architectural team and builder KingPost. “Hanging curved stairs are very difficult to do,” says Selvitelli of ensuring the stairs can withstand the pressure and weight. They were an important detail to the home, as the stairway draws the eye up to the top of the home where the main living spaces are. OPPOSITE: The owner’s bedroom features the same pecky cypress on the ceiling, tying it to the rest of the home’s interior design. Sedalik’s goal was to create a room that was light, airy, and relaxing, so she incorporated touches of soothing lavender to further enhance the serenity of the space. The bed is by Bernhardt.

Sedalik wanted the panoramic ocean views to play center stage, so she left the interiors soft and neutral. To complement the pecky cypress on the ceiling, she added the custom white-oak coffee table by Duvall & Co., the sofas by Robin Bruce, and a limestone mantle.

ceilings of the living and dining rooms, kitchen, and owner’s suite, grounding the voluminous spaces with a cozier feel.

“The pecky cypress has so much character, but we didn’t want to overwhelm the space with it,” explains Selvitelli. “Cintra did such a good job with that, making sure the spaces were light and bright.” Painted wood beams help break up the architectural detail of the pecky cypress while a plaster on the fireplace adds character and subtle texture to complement the organic finish.

For Sedalik, the interiors strove to match the subtle coastal aesthetic established by the pecky cypress, and, as such, she married the look with the client’s love of “natural stone in a way that was both functional and beautiful, so the stones

could act like their own works of art,” she explains. The kitchen backsplash is a slab of Maya quartzite from Brazil, for example, and it abstractly resembles ocean waves, says Sedalik. “This slab informed the touches of deep blues and greens found in the fabrics and light fixtures in the great room and scullery.”

Each space is carefully appointed with touches of blues and greens and neutrals, resulting in an ultimately relaxing setting. But no matter the interior and architectural finishes or how each of the three floors function, one thing remains constant, tying everything together: “That tower of light and that stairway is the focal point of this home, no matter where you are,” says Selvitelli. “It’s what really sets this home apart.”u

Though a small space, the elevator foyer is chock-full of details, including the tile floor with tiles by Mirth Studio in Charleston. The Roman shade is in a Thibaut fabric.

“I wanted to use lots of color for this smaller space as well as incorporate the pecky cypress in a subtle way,” says Sedalik of the guest den. “This room serves as the living room and kitchenette for guests, so it needed to be comfortable, inviting, and also memorable.”

ART DECO LEGACY

VIVID HUES AND GEOMETRIC PATTERNS BRING A RALEIGH FOREVER HOME TO LIFE.

TEXT BY DANA W. TODD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABIGAIL JACKSON

The basement-level pool bath features a sauna and custom built-ins. The homeowner dreamed up the unique placement of river rocks under a floating custom vanity surrounded by easy-care porcelain tile in Aluminum Matte by Cancos Tile & Stone. OPPOSITE: “The pool, designed by Liquid Designs, is one of my favorite parts of the home because it’s where we can connect most as a family,” says the homeowner.

DDOLORES HUANG knew exactly what she wanted in a forever home. She had been saving photos for years, tucking them away for the day that she and her husband, Tim, could set their plan in motion. What she wanted was very different from the semi-custom home in Cary that the couple lived in with their two elementary-age children. What she wanted was the freedom to choose customized finishes and features to make a home that was practical and fun for her children without sacrificing style. “My previous home was a two-level Craftsman house. There were lots of design limitations and guidelines given by the builder at the time,” she says. “We wanted to build a fully custom home in our style with a builder who would allow us to adjust the design to make it a legacy home we could pass down to the kids.”

The Huangs enlisted Bost Custom Homes for the build and Jill Perry of Design Works for the interiors after the pair bonded over their shared love of Art Deco design. “I was attracted to Art Deco because it brings a little history to the modern era,” says Huang of the aesthetic she wanted in the home.

“I love how much innovation and style transformed during that time period. In our previous home it was Craftsman heavy, limiting the transition of bringing other styles into our home. I like so many styles, and I wanted the freedom to transition to something else when we are ready for it.”

“We wanted to make a modern-glam living room that was still approachable and livable for the whole family,” says designer Jill Perry. An original large-scale abstract painting by local artist Jenny Fassino hangs above the fireplace. Colorful Schumacher antelope pillows, a vivid green sofa, and a geometric area rug hint at the Art Deco theme.

“The entire basement entertainment space is meant for parties and family hangouts,” says Perry. A bar with bistro shelving, Art Deco–inspired counter stools in caramel leather, and Hickory White Brooks swivel chairs in the adjacent lounge are set up for the adults. The space opens onto a covered patio containing a hot tub.

“The Hickory White dining table has clean, classic lines and is masculine and substantial for the large open dining space,” says Perry. Practical fabric and leather on Lee Industries chairs make them suitable for everyday use while a Currey & Company chandelier adds glitz.

One look at Huang’s tear sheets and collection of inspiration images, and Perry knew exactly where to go with the interior design. Her goal was simple: create a modern but livable aesthetic with Art Deco touches throughout. “Based on those photos, we chose an emeraldgreen sofa anchored with a geometric black-and-white rug in the living room and coordinated both with a midnightcolor vent hood in the open kitchen nearby,” she says. “Those elements were the starting point for the design. Everything else radiated out from there.”

Bright colors like pink, green, and cobalt blue mix with glitzy-gold accents throughout the home on lighting, art, and furniture to reinforce Huang’s style. “We splashed Art Deco in the rooms without going overboard and making it look like a speakeasy,” Perry adds. In the foyer, the designer added a modern elliptical console with brass highlights by Global Views, setting the tone for the entire contemporary glam aesthetic. In the dining room, Perry chose chairs with a geometric brass pattern on the side, another nod to the Art Deco style Huang loves.

A modern elliptical console with brass highlights in the foyer introduces the home’s glam tone, while Jenny Fassino original art—one of several in the home—adds a dash of color.

While the main living areas are modern and sophisticated, Huang relegated the upper level for her children to relax and freely enjoy their bedrooms as well as a playroom with a climbing wall, a gaming area, a media room, and a study space. “The upstairs is their floor, and the toys stay up there,” Huang says. “I hired organizers to set up the whole house, including the kids’ floor, so everything is labeled and has a place.”

Anytime Huang started to lean toward the glam factor upstairs, Perry gently reminded her of the need for practicality while the kids are young. “We kept going back to the goal of making it beautiful but livable,” Perry says. “It’s a design for how they really live.”

In the end, the home checks the boxes on everything the Huangs wanted in their forever home. The timeless decor feels modern and livable, and can easily transition as the family grows. “Jill and I connected on design,” says Huang. “I trusted her to take my inspiration photos and turn them into a cohesive home. And she hit the mark.” u

“Dolores’s inspiration photo for the kitchen hood was in a neutral champagne color, but we changed it to Benjamin Moore’s Midnight to bring the kitchen to life,” Perry says. Counter stools in Kravet white leather by Worlds Away pull up to a sleek White Zen quartz countertop. LEFT: Perry characterizes the powder room as “super glam,” with geometric tile that manages to be both reminiscent of ancient Rome and a nod to Art Deco style.

MEMORY MAKER

TEXT BY BRANDY WOODS SNOW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BLEVINS

THIS WRIGHTSVILLE BEAUTY PROVES LOCATION IS EVERYTHING.

WWILL AND EMILY Mullinix dreamed of having a summer spot on the North Carolina coast. Born and raised in Wilmington, both cherished their fond memories and strong connection to the area and wanted their three children to also have the opportunity to fall in love with the place they’d called home.

When they heard about a Wrightsville Beach property coming onto the market in spring 2021, they knew they had to see it.

“The location was the most important piece of this story, and this home checked all the boxes,” Emily says. “We met with the owners and had lovely conversations, discovering a mutual love for the home, the community, and family. They’d created many memories there and were happy we had that same goal too. It was a sweet process that left us feeling like this home was meant to be.”

The 1980s-era three-bed, two-bath cottage on the southern end of Wrightsville Beach, however, needed TLC. Wanting to maintain the integrity of the home while

Low-profile furnishings offer a comfortable means for gathering and enjoying the water views just beyond the wall of sliding glass doors in the family room. A vintage Moroccan rug, an antique shell stool, and conjoined coffee tables add pizzazz. Wall sconces from Arteriors give off moody accent lighting at night.

A custom banquette from Lester Furniture and a custom dining table from Ernsberger Custom Carpentry give the dining room multipurpose appeal, offering a place to dine, play games, complete puzzles, or use for extra seating adjoining the family room. The mirrored wall extends the space and maximizes water views.

merging that traditional architecture with modern touches and updates, the Mullinixes enlisted the help of a team of experts, including Greg Perry, owner and architectural designer of Greg Perry Design, Nancy Targgart and Kim Moore of Cashion Hill Design, and Tanner Konrady, owner of Konrady & Son Construction. The homeowners had worked with Perry on two previous projects and Cashion Hill Design on three, so there was already an established trust.

“We delivered a renovation that kept with the neighborhood but was also forward thinking in both plan

and aesthetics,” Perry says. “It was important to take advantage of the breathtaking Intercoastal Waterway views to honor the traditions of Wrightsville Beach, which, in part, also included keeping the vaulted ceilings while creating a modern, functional cottage.”

The biggest challenge was expanding the home to a four-bed, three-bath layout without changing rooflines. They gutted the entire inside, moved the kitchen to the front of the house, and extended the home’s footprint on the two back corners to create the children’s bedrooms.

Smooth front cabinets by Classic Kitchen & Bath and countertops from Sellers Tile & Custom Counters create a clean, white, and modern aesthetic. A natural stone island becomes an indestructible workhouse for the kitchen space. Grasscloth on interior walls and glass shelves showcasing vintage barware impart pops of color.

Once architecture was tackled, Cashion Hill Design came in to create a stylish yet comfortable aesthetic that increased function and flow for the family. Custom storage, including a platform storage bed in the son’s room and floor-to-ceiling cupboards in the laundry, was implemented throughout, and pocket doors were installed to hide children’s bedrooms when entertaining. Stools, benches, drink tables, and pull-up chairs offer flexibility for guests, while the front porch was expanded, allowing room for a dining and living area. To make it all-season, a ceiling heater was installed as well.

“Layout and scale were important in maximizing the cozy 1,600-square-foot cottage,” Moore says. “We were thoughtful about where to add, edit, or create custom built-ins to provide the most storage options.”

The designers showcased panoramic water views while drawing inspiration from the large vintage oil painting in the family room and the hues of the

A vintage white heron painting, a find from the Cashion Hill Design collection, sets the tone for this bedroom’s organic color palette. The modern West Elm bed is luxuriously dressed in neutral-hued cozy bedding from Isabella.

Elevated design is kept comfortable and uncomplicated in the owner’s bedroom. Kit Kemp for Christopher Farr grass paper richens the space with texture, movement, and color. A wall of sliding doors offers amazing daytime views, and ceiling-mounted linen blackout draperies give maximum privacy at night.

coastal landscape. A harmonious mixture of new fixtures and furnishings, custom-built pieces, and antique items were hand-picked for each space. “Our goal was to make the beach cottage bright and open with interesting layers of color and texture,” Targgart says. “We kept the base of the decor neutral and organized, and added pops with art, wallpaper, and some fabulous finds.”

The Mullinixes’ home has already become the memory maker they wanted. “Every part of this home is curated. Everything has meaning,” Emily says. “We’re thrilled to be part of the close-knit community of Wrightsville Beach with a home that honors the traditions of this place. We’ve already made many memories and look forward to making more.” u

Textured tiles from Harkey Tile & Stone, a mirrored wall, and a large glass waterfall shower with fixtures from Bird Decorative Hardware & Bath offer subtle modern touches to a simple but classic bathroom vignette.

Brilliant pops of color create magic in this guest bedroom. Bold artwork from A. Hoke Ltd., a custom blue floral lumbar pillow in China Seas fabric, and colorful throws from R. Runberg Curiosities pair well with neutral bedding from Isabella. Accent lighting is by Arteriors.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Beyond mere aesthetics, interior designers bridge art and performance to create spaces that cater to individual style, needs, and preferences, shaping environments that evoke emotion and enhance functionality. The following pages highlight several distinguished designers in our region, each playing a pivotal role in our local design community by fashioning exquisite homes that elevate the well-being and quality of life for their clients. We salute these designers for their creative vision and expertise.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Shannon Cassell

shannoncassellinteriors.com | @shannoncassellinteriors

Love where you live. Shannon Cassell Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in renovations. From one room to an entire home, we determine the best use and layout of a space, then take that idea from concept through full décor. Uncompromising in quality, we collaborate closely with contractors and clients to design spaces that reflect the spirit of the clients that live there while appreciating the integrity of the home. Applying a modern take on classic design principles, our aesthetic marries the needs of today’s families with their desire for style. The result is a home that is beautiful, functional, and full of livable spaces for your family.

TYLER CUNNINGHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

In this two-story foyer, the chandelier and stool are by Arteriors, the rug is by Mastour, and the wallpaper is by Porter Teleo.

DEMI RYAN

Demi Ryan Interiors

demiryan.com | @demiryanhome

919.593.3369

Welcome to Demi Ryan Interiors, where we redefine luxury interior design that captivates the senses and leaves an indelible impression. In our world, opulence is not just a design choice, it's an experience, a vibrant journey into the extraordinary. At Demi Ryan Interiors, we don't just create interiors, we curate stories, blending edgy aesthetics with unparalleled sophistication to make your space truly one-of-a-kind.

Step into a world where boldness meets brilliance, where every design is a statement and every room tells a story of creativity. Our team of designers is led by Michelle Palmer Murphy, who has a passion for pushing boundaries and transforming conventional spaces into vibrant, immersive environments that spark conversation and evoke emotion.

What sets us apart is our commitment to our clients and infusing fun and excitement into every project. We believe that luxury doesnʼt have to be stuffy—it can be lively, dynamic, and full of character. From unconventional color schemes to daring furniture choices, we revel in creating spaces that reflect the spirit and uniqueness of our clients.

Collaboration is at the core of our approach. We're not just creating a design, weʼre crafting an experience tailored to you. Our designers work closely with clients, infusing their dreams and desires into the very fabric of the design, ensuring that the result not only reflects our signature edge but resonates with your unique taste and style.

At Demi Ryan Interiors, we invite you to break free from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Let us be the architects of your dreams, transforming your space into a visual symphony of excitement and allure. Elevate your lifestyle, captivate your guests, and make a statement that echoes from the hearts of everyone who enters.

Welcome to the world of Demi Ryan Interiors, where luxury meets a bold, exhilarating adventure right at home.

The following spaces represent a blend of styles layered together to create a sense of individuality among each room in a way that complements the rest. From powder rooms that pack a visual punch to a relaxing bedroom retreat that radiates the warmth of its custom ceiling panels, Demi Ryan Interiors captivates homeowners in their own space in ways that inspire them to live their life the way they have always imagined. These carefully curated spaces speak to the definition of Demi Ryan Interiors’ design aesthetic—one that transcends what is considered to be currently “trending” and triumphs with uniquely daring designs that speak to the personality of its homeowners.

PHOTOS BY ANNA ROUTH BARZIN

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

The custom lacquer paint is by Fine Paints of Europe, the light fixture is by Oly Studio, the chairs are by Palecek, and the desk is by Kravet.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Michelle Palmer Murphy of Demi Ryan Interiors chose lighting by Arteriors and Made Goods, furnishings by Kravet, and a rug by Mastour.

The wallpaper is by Porter Teleo, the light and mirror are by Arteriors, and the leather sconces are by Ngala Trading. Chairs are by Kravet and Villa & House.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

The wood ceiling is custom, the chandelier is by Ro Sham Beaux, and the bed and swivels are by Kravet. The bench is by Made Goods and the side tables are by Villa & House.

Michelle Palmer Murphy of Demi Ryan Interiors included gray-and-white marble chevron tile leading into a zero-entry shower. White marble dimensional tile adorns the shower walls.

In this powder room, designer Michelle Palmer Murphy added sconces by Arteriors, a custom marble vanity, and wallpaper by Windy O'Connor.

The sconce is by Arteriors and the floating white-oak vanity is custom.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

New South Home newsouthhome.com

| @newsouthhome

New South Home is a premier full-service interior design firm known for creating spaces filled with quiet luxury and casual elegance. Established in 2011 by Principal Designer and CEO Melissa Lee, NSH is based in Charlotte and serves homeowners, builders, and architects across the Southeast and beyond.

With over sixty years of combined experience, Lee and her award-winning team of seven women bring inspiration to life, designing spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional. Their work has been featured in publications like Elle Décor, Cottages & Bungalows, Washington Post, SouthPark magazine, and Charlotte magazine.

CAITLIN PAREDES

CHRISTINA HUSSEY

LAURA SUMRAK

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

LAURA SUMRAK

Thoughtfully Curated Design

At Bardi, we seamlessly curate luxury design, partnering with you to transform your space into a high-end interior from start to finish. Let us help you create an elevated interior environment that will foster joy and deliver big on comfort, quality, detail, and sophistication while being authentically you.

From planning and overseeing design construction to furniture selection and implementation, our turnkey process turns your vision into a reality. Bardi Designs bardidesigns.com | @bardidesigns 525 S. West Street, Raleigh, NC 27601 | 919.803.5251

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Anne Buresh Interiors

anneburesh.com | @annebureshinteriordesign

Anne Buresh Interior Design is an award-winning, full-service interior design firm that is celebrated for their commitment to excellence in design and service. Anne’s signature style blends Southern charm with traces of a well-traveled lifestyle. For over a decade, Anne has focused on collaborations that involve a wide variety of projects ranging from new builds to large-scale renovations.

Above all, Anne believes your home journey should inspire you. The ABID team loves to pamper their clients with southern hospitality and those small personal touches that say “welcome home.”

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Grey Joyner Interiors

www.greyjoyner.com | @greyjoyner 252-985-8666

Making her mark all around North Carolina since launching her firm in 2019, Grey Joyner is an interior designer who embraces maximalism—complete with patterns, colors, textures, and objects—as her signature look in client projects. She loves nothing more than to use color in unexpected ways.

Joyner is passionate about incorporating the old with the new, especially when it comes to family heirlooms and treasures. She lovingly finds ways to honor clients’ family histories and cherished collections to honor the past and to

create interest in recent acquisitions.

Joyner believes that personality and style should shine through in every home and tell the stories of the spaces. Whether it's a classic home for a family or a beach house along the coast, Joyner loves to create rooms that have multiple layers, meaningful details, and stories to tell.

Joyner resides with her husband, two sons, and multiple dogs in a one-hundred-plus year-old home on five acres in Wilson, North Carolina.

ASHLEY ROBERTS

DHANRAJ EMANUEL PHOTOGRAPHY

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

JSF Designs

jsfdesigns.net | @jsf.designs.raleigh

5328 Collingswood Drive, Raleigh, NC 27609 | 919.741.3204

Exceptional interior design should motivate and inspire you. It’s not just a physical arrangement of elements balanced aesthetically with the structural elements, but also a psychological experience—a feeling you draw confidence from and one you hope to communicate to those passing through. Life is just a little easier, and perhaps a little more luxurious, when you begin your day in a bespoke, conscious space. Jenn Frost with JSF Designs helps to discover what inspires and motivates you, and transmutes that into a tailored physical manifestation of your identity and vision, a distinctive design, “Designed for Life.”

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

VLV Designs

vlvdesigns.net | @vlvdesigns | 630.768.1388

Are you ready to live a stress-free, beautiful life? We take ordinary spaces and make them specialty places! We take ideas to the next level, creating functional beauty in the most unique form. We believe in bringing your personal vision to life by gathering your favorite things while adding new pieces to create a beautiful, harmonious design.

VLV Designs is a full-service interior design and custom art company, specializing in specialty room design packages, custom bedding and window treatments, architectural paint treatments, and custom art, whether it be on canvas or on walls. Above all, VLV Designs is passionate about providing their clients with the best quality and service. To do so, they pride themselves on partnering with other local small businesses in North Carolina and recommending products that are of the best value, made in the USA.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Design by Tula

designbytula.com | @designbytula

252.312.9583

Design by Tula is known for her ability to design a varied mix of styles, combining classic and contemporary furnishings with family heirlooms, curated pieces, and layers of textures and patterns that result in spaces that cordially defy categorization.

At Design by Tula, we are passionate about color . . . but we love to create serene neutral spaces as well. It’s all about finding the balance and letting the space speak to the personality of the family. We strive to defy expectations and reinvent traditions.

AURA MARZOUK

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Southern Studio Interior Design

southernstudio.com | @southernstudio

119 West Park Street, Cary, NC 27511 | 919.362.5143

Southern Studio Interior Design was founded in 2001 and has earned a reputation as an award-winning interior design firm specializing in luxury interior spaces with casual sophistication. Located in the heart of Downtown Cary, the design studio—along with our newly launched sister company, Home for Entertaining— is a place of inspiration. The design team brings unparalleled expertise, carefully crafted designs, and exceptional service to every space—in a way that feels authentic to your own unique style. From furnishing new and custom homes to assisting with large-scale renovations, a tried-and-true approach to design helps create a home you’ll love for a lifetime. This collaborative method to design has each member of the team touching every project in a special way.

Named Designer of the Year by Southern Living Magazine, you’ll find the work of Southern Studio in many local and national publications. All the accolades received are humbling for the team, but the top priority of Southern Studio is to establish meaningful relationships and create beautiful spaces for families to enjoy.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Lauren Burns Interiors

laurenburnsinteriors.com | @laurenburnsinteriors

510 Glenwood Avenue, #602 Raleigh, NC 27603 | 919. 699.8009

At Lauren Burns Interiors, we specialize in creating beautiful environments that transcend the ordinary, with meticulous attention to detail in every client project. With a passion for aesthetics, we curate bespoke spaces that embody sophistication, comfort, and functionality to meet the needs of our clients.

We believe in making the design process not just seamless, but also enjoyable. From our initial brainstorming sessions to the day of installation, we are committed to making the journey as fun and stress-free as possible. After all, designing your dream space should be as enjoyable as living in it!

Our approach begins with a deep understanding of a client’s vision and lifestyle. Whether it’s designing rooms in a home, making finish selections for a new home build, remodeling spaces, or designing commercial spaces, we customize our services to meet the individual needs and desires of our clients.

As an interior designer, I strive to create a collaborative atmosphere and bring your vision to life. My goal is to elevate spaces to reflect the people who live there and bring a smile to your face. Whether we’re working with first-time clients or with repeat clients, I strive to leave an indelible mark of sophistication and refinement in every environment I touch.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

Brooke Cole Interiors

brookecoleinteriors.com | @brookecoleinteriors

Brooke Cole Interiors is known for its personal approach to designing sophisticated interiors with standout style and unexpected elements. Whether building a new home, renovating a mature one, or updating furnishings and decor, we look beyond the beauty of an elegant interior and focus on creating personalized spaces where your family’s story beautifully unfolds. When working with us, not only do you walk away with a house turned home, but we also create a sense of belonging, a personal reflection of your story, and a sacred place to share with those you love most, creating memories that last a lifetime.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

INTERIOR DESIGNERS of the Carolinas

La Maison Atelier

lamaisonraleigh.com | @lamaisonraleigh | 919.324.2310 | 4421-101 Six Forks Rd Raleigh, NC 27609

La Maison Atelier, the in-house interior design studio of La Maison Home Boutique, has gained a reputation for creating elegant and timeless interiors. From new construction to renovation, their team of designers offers turnkey design services that reflect the client’s personality and lifestyle. The design team draws inspiration from European architecture and fashion while working with the best fabric houses and furnishings in the industry. “When designing a project for our clients, it’s important that their inspirations shine through in all areas, whether it be in the details of art, furnishings, or functionality,” says owner and lead designer Martha Schneider.

CATHERINE NGUYEN PHOTOGRAPHY

THE MODERN KITCHEN

TODAY’S KITCHENS ARE RICH IN STYLISH STORAGE SOLUTIONS AND UNEXPECTED DESIGN STATEMENTS.

TEXT BY DANA W. TODD

The heart of the home deserves to be beautiful. With all the work that takes place in the kitchen, it can be hard to keep it looking pristine. Rebecca Riley, who designs kitchens for Kitchen & Bath Galleries, recommends tucking away the necessary, but chaotic, parts of a working kitchen.

“A scullery eliminates the mess when hosting a party, and it incorporates tons of storage,” says Riley. “It houses pantry shelves and secondary appliances like a microwave, a backup dishwasher, and a prep sink, and it provides extra counter space.”

“IT’S ALL ABOUT INCORPORATING THE UNEXPECTED, EXPLORING THE POSSIBILITIES, AND MOVING AWAY FROM THE BASIC.”

—REBECCA RILEY

In a similar fashion, larder systems integrated within cabinetry behind pocket doors accommodate a coffee pot, an icemaker, a toaster, a built-in bar, or anything a homeowner wants to tuck away for a clutter-free look. Think old-school appliance garages that are tastefully integrated into cabinetry. Deep cabinet drawers replace doors with pullouts as the optimum solution to corral heavy dishes and glassware for easy access. “With higher sides than a pullout, deep drawers are an improved solution for quickly accessing everyday plates and cups. Their greater depth is versatile for storing dishware of varied sizes,” says Riley. “The desire for fewer upper cabinets and more floating shelves makes deep drawers an essential part of a functional kitchen.”

JONATHAN HERNANDEZ AT CAPTURED ZEAL

Built-in paneled cabinet fronts disguise refrigerators, dishwashers, and pantries, and provide a seamless view of the entire room. “Built-in appliances help complete the look and make kitchens appear larger because cabinet continuity eliminates the visual break the eye perceives,” says Riley.

Unexpected design statements and new style directions define Riley’s current projects. “I am seeing more natural wood tones with light stains in the kitchen and splashes of decorative detailing such as reeded door styles. I’m also noticing plenty of curves and arched doorways that serve as entrances to sculleries,” she says. Colorful ranges with statement hardware and oversized hoods, often designed in plaster, serve as focal points with a distinctive impact.

“It’s all about incorporating the unexpected, exploring the possibilities, and moving away from the basic,” Riley continues. “It’s not about what works for resale but rather what homeowners like and appreciate for themselves.” u

TO INFINITY AND BEYOND

BY WILL STROPE

ONCE RARE, INFINITY POOLS HAVE BECOME MORE DESIRABLE DUE TO THEIR ACCESSIBILITY ON THE INTERNET AND SOCIAL MEDIA.

We are receiving increased calls for these unique works of art and engineering. Many swimming pools catch the eye when accompanied by beautiful landscapes and lighting; however, infinity pools go further and catch the spirit, bringing the beholder to a place of possibility, continuation, and, dare I say, hopefulness.

Before we embark on envisioning an infinity pool, we ask: Is the existing landscape setting and view appropriate for such an endeavor? Does the architecture of the house warrant this feature? Does the client’s budget and understanding align with the additional costs for these showstoppers?

First, I must mention the trust and understanding this client bestowed upon us. They did their homework. They knew this project would be demanding, costly, and not simply constructed. It would require a special design-andbuild feature that, if done well, would set this beautiful Raleigh home a considerable mark above the rest. It was post-pandemic. Local real estate markets were booming, and our client wanted to capitalize on their original home investment with a pool that wasn’t just a luxury expense but would appreciate their home’s value. To achieve their dream would require not only an experienced build team but also a team with the right vision and ability to translate it into reality. They needed the total package, and they entrusted us.

“INFINITY POOLS GO FURTHER AND CATCH THE SPIRIT, BRINGING THE BEHOLDER TO A PLACE OF POSSIBILITY, CONTINUATION, AND, DARE I SAY, HOPEFULNESS.”

As a co-owner and company visionary, I am intimately involved in each project’s design. With a green light from the client, I was soon on-site with the design team in tow, shaping the vision while imagining a future pool paradise still twelve months away. Our designers, Whitney Morris and Stephanie Carnahan, picked up the ball from there. Hundreds of design hours later, the entire property was 3D rendered, accurate to the last window of the house. It was immensely important for the clients to be able to view the pool from multiple rooms within the house, and from down the road and up the driveway. They also wanted gorgeous day and night views from inside the pool.

The American infinity pool was designed in the midtwentieth century to complement modern homes overlooking cityscapes and the coastal cliffs of Southern California. But could this pool style work here in the rustic setting of North Carolina’s capital? The ONS design team

answered the call, even rendering new exterior paint colors for the home’s siding and brick, and designing the material pallet and shape of the pool, pool deck, and catch basin walls to please the subconscious longing for luxury in our local atmosphere. The result was nothing short of magnificent, elegantly quaint, and appropriate while largely increasing the value of this one-of-a-kind North Carolina estate.

Whether your aim is the stars or paradise on earth, our team can surely get you there. With over forty years of design-build experience, we are here for you and ready when you are for liftoff—to infinity and beyond! u

WILL STROPE is a co-owner of Old North State Landscape Development. The full team can be reached at 919-384-1800, ONSLANDSCAPE.COM, or on Instagram @ONSLANDSCAPE

STREAMS OF ARTISTRY

BY DAVID PAYNE

DON’T DESPAIR IF YOUR YARD HAS STANDING WATER BECAUSE THE LAND IS LOW-LYING OR IS NOT ABLE TO HANDLE CONDITIONS SUCH AS EXCESSIVE RAINFALL. IT’S ENTIRELY POSSIBLE TO SOLVE WATER DRAINAGE ISSUES BOTH BEAUTIFULLY AND FUNCTIONALLY.

Addressing drainage issues can be the gateway to creating an aesthetically pleasing statement in your landscape. Here are a few ways to handle extra water:

Dry creek beds. A sculptural flow of carefully placed rocks and boulders quickly filters water through a trench or gully that naturally attracts rainwater because of its sloped sides. Its rocky, stream-like shape stops the deluge of water runoff because the stones provide better drainage than the soil. If

it’s an area that sees regular foot traffic, stepping stones integrated into the “stream” add an extra layer of functionality.

Patios with pavers. Convert wet areas in certain parts of the landscape into patios by placing pavers as a foundation. They are more permeable than other materials, allowing the water to flow through to the ground below, and they double as an entertainment area during fair weather.

Stairways. Steps that lead down an incline in the yard enable easier walkability and direct the flow of water to a more desirable location. Installing exterior stone steps is a way to bridge the gaps in a multi-level yard so you can use every part of the landscape to full advantage.

“IT’S ENTIRELY POSSIBLE TO SOLVE WATER DRAINAGE ISSUES BOTH BEAUTIFULLY AND FUNCTIONALLY.”

French drains. This underground drainage solution is a common way to move water from one location to another. An underground trench contains a buried, perforated pipe that filters water. Since gravel or grass covers the pipe, it is an out-of-sight method of mitigating excessive water. The drain directs water flow to a remote part of the landscape or diverts it to a runoff pond.

Rain gardens. Although rain gardens don’t necessarily provide drainage, they do keep the landscape drier. Plant water-loving grasses and perennials in an area where water tends to collect, and they will absorb much of the rain and thrive. They work well in a naturally depressed area in the landscape and are an excellent way to turn an eyesore into a blooming beauty that attracts butterflies and birds to your yard.

Just because the land around your home holds water now doesn’t mean it will hold water forever. A landscape professional proficient in hardscape design will know how to meet your water concerns with the right solution. u

DAVID PAYNE is the owner of HOME & GARDEN LANDSCAPES and can be reached at 919-801-0211 or HOMEANDGARDENLANDSCAPES.COM.

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS

SPOTLIGHT

IMAGINE

5 POINTS GALLERY

March 15–April 13

5pointsgallery.com

A new exhibit featuring artist Jim McKeon highlights his large-scale oil paintings that seamlessly blend figurative realism with whimsical, dreamy landscapes. The artist deftly explores the dual nature of the word imagine. In Flights of Fancy, a young boy unleashes his imagination, soaring above the misty jungle kingdom of Bagan in a homemade airplane after visiting the great king's temple. Meanwhile, Down by the Healing Waters envisions a troubled world where a shaman, accompanied by her animal spirit, the jaguar, holds the earth in her hands, ready to commence a healing ritual. Opening reception and artist talk on March 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

LOVE & ANARCHY

NASHER MUSEUM OF ART

Through July 7 nasher.duke.edu

On the surface, love and anarchy may seem like unrelated or even conflicting notions. Love is synonymous with care, compassion, and affection, while anarchy is generally accepted as an absence of authority, a state of disorder, or an ungovernable condition. These concepts, more than tangentially related, are often intertwined and even sometimes mutually dependent. Indeed, moments of disarray and frustration are intrinsic to love, while love sometimes emerges out of disorder and chaos. Drawn from the Nasher Museum’s extensive historical and contemporary collections, Love & Anarchy demonstrates some of the ways in which these two concepts have inspired artists, visually and conceptually, over millennia.

PILLOWS AND CRADLES

ARTSPACE

Through April 28 artspacenc.org

Pillows and Cradles, an exhibition by artists Nathan Grimes and Todd Jones, explores the way that objects hold traces of our deeply personal and universal human experience simultaneously. While their art practices are individually distinct, both Grimes and Jones push the boundaries of painting through the use of discarded materials and accumulative processes.

ART BY JIM MCKEON; ART BY TODD JONES; ART BY NINA CHANEL ABNEY

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