A Touch of Tuscany

By Tory Irmeger | Photography by Daniel Neuhoff/Creative

Builder: Dexter W. White Construction

In the heart of the city, this home by Dexter White of Dexter W. White Construction marries urban elegance with Tuscan charm. The goal for this build was to create a refined abode perfectly suited to the homeowner’s needs while incorporating elements that make the home feel well established. “It’s more on the transitional side of design than contemporary,” shares White. “So, we wanted to be intentional about using a good mix of quality materials, and I think the end result turned out nicely.”

BLENDING THE OLD WITH THE NEW

A stately, distressed brick exterior alongside natural materials creates an effect that is both eye-catching and established. Dark timber transoms punctuate wide windows, while modern window trim blends cohesively with the three-story balcony columns. While the driveway offers up a textured effect in exposed aggregate, the porches are coated in smooth travertine, offering a lightness and finesse to these comfortable entertainment areas. On the front exterior, wooden roof brackets and gas lanterns accentuate on the historical effect without overcomplicating the building face.

To see more from Dexter W. White Construction, visit dexterwhiteconstruction.com.

Entering the home, guests get a taste of the treasures within as they pass through a foyer that features detailed millwork, textured grasscloth wallpaper, and ornate wooden furniture. A staircase with custom iron-wrought railings leads to the upper story while the main level space opens up to a sophisticated living area. The interiors lean on the historic aesthetic with a subtle touch, layering wood tones and rich upholstery over sleek furniture silhouettes. White shares that a major goal with this house was to achieve functional flow between rooms, as seen in this living area’s wide entrance into the kitchen and dining room.

This house’s gourmet kitchen is perfect for any chef, showcasing stunning walnut cabinetry alongside high-end appliances. Black-veined, white marble countertops add high contrast alongside dark pendant lights with metallic trim. The island seats four slat-back chairs, which correspond with the wing-backed seating at the dining table. Pale hardwood floors and bright walls ensure that the space never feels too heavy, while custom millwork on a feature wall in the dining room adds a subtle finish. A wide span allows for seamless movement between cooking and dining spaces, also serving a dual purpose of allowing in natural light from the dining room windows. On beautiful evenings, guests can access the main level porch, where city views are complemented by an outdoor fireplace and seating vignette.

Cabinetry: Scarlett’s Cabinetry | Countertops: Granite Warehouse

This house was definitely designed to fit the space and take advantage of the phenomenal views of downtown, Lookout Mountain, and the Tennessee River. The clients love the house’s close proximity to the city without sacrificing the scenery the area has to offer.

– Dexter White, Dexter W. White Construction

Traditional excellence comes to the forefront in this home’s primary suite. Distressed wooden furnishings complement airy drapes, and the tufted wingback bedframe adds a luxurious element. Glass doors provide access to a private balcony with bird’s-eye views of the city and the lush canopy all around. The ensuite sprawls in swirling marble floors and radiant lights, courtesy of decorative wall sconces. Warm walnut cabinetry returns in the his-and-hers vanities bordering a soaker tub. An extra-large walk-in shower features dual showerheads and vertical tile that visually adds height to the room. “We wanted to make sure there was no wasted space in this house, so I really like that aspect of it,” White says. “We prioritized functionality, and it works very well for the homeowners.”

Tile: The Tile Store

Below the main level, an exquisite entertainment area opens up on the lower deck. The large backyard is ideal for any cookout or family gathering overlooking the cityscape. Inside, the den is elevated with a black brick fireplace and shiplap paneling, providing the perfect backdrop for game day or movie nights. The moody colors are offset by playful ottomans and armchair upholstery. This area abuts a fullyoutfitted wet bar, including a sleek black refrigerator tucked against dark cabinetry. Gold accents continue in the metallic pendant lighting, while a lattice-front cabinet incorporates mid-century style vibes. Topping off this premier lounge space is a patinaed mirror backsplash under custom shelving.

“We wanted to bring the client’s vision to life with this build and blend our design with the features they had in mind,” shares White. “The finishes needed to match some of the best views in Chattanooga. We achieved a house that feels very lived-in, and the homeowners are very happy with it.” From accent walls to carefully curated furnishings, this home highlights the best in old-world design styles without compromising contemporary considerations.

Hardscaping: Chattanooga Concrete Co. Ironwork: Beaty Fabricating, Inc.

Other Suppliers

Appliances and plumbing fixtures: Ferguson | Architect: Jon Greenfield, Greenfield Design, LLC | Brick: Acme Brick, Tile & Stone | Exterior and Interior Design: TW Designs | Fireplace: Hearthside Hearth & Home | Flooring: Kenworthy Hardwood Flooring; HC Corp. | Landscaping: The Barn Nursery; 4 Seasons Landscaping & Construction | Lighting: Althea Lighting + Living | Outdoor kitchen: Fine’s Gas | Painting: Pro Line Painters, LLC