A TENNESSEE GEM RESTORED WITH PASSION AND PURPOSE — WHITTHORNE HOUSE

PHOTOS BY DOMINIC KAWAJA WITH CURB360

By Katie Baker

Nestled atop a hill in the historic town of Columbia, Tennessee, the Whitthorne House stands as a testament to a bygone era, its rich past both preserved and enhanced by Reshia Guarnotta, a seasoned designer and REALTOR with over 15 years of experience in home flipping and renovations.

A Heritage of Expertise

In 2021, the Guarnottas began searching for a residence that was both unique and quintessentially Tennessee in style. Reshia and Vinnie Guarnotta, along with their children, were drawn to Whitthorne House for its wraparound porches overlooking a tree-dappled lawn. Their appreciation for historic homes and a keen eye for design is what drove them headfirst into a restoration project of an architectural gem in Columbia, Tennessee.

"The style of the home captivated us," they enthused. "This house is exactly what I imagined life to be like in a small Tennessee town." The allure of a large front porch, a grand staircase, eight fireplaces, and the charm of centuryold trees enveloping the property made it an irresistible choice. The love extended to the brickwork and every antique detail that graced the home.

Proximity to Charm

What adds to the Whitthorne House's allure is its ideal proximity to downtown, a mere 1.5 miles from Columbia’s town square, and the view from across the street of historic Columbia Academy, formerly the Columbia Military Academy. The Guarnottas reveled in the joy of watching the Mule Day parade from their lawn creating cherished memories during summer get-togethers. The town's offerings, from concerts at the Mulehouse to boutique shopping and dining with friends, add an extra layer of charm to their chosen city.

A Palette of Transformation

When asked about their favorite change made to the house, Reshia refers to their decision to paint the outside brick, "We painted the house a cream color with Evergreen Fog Shutters," they shared. The transformation turned the Whitthorne House into a stunning white brick, colonial farmhouse set behind a grand magnolia tree, a visual testament to their dream of living in a true southern home.

Stepping Back in Time

Within the Whitthorne House, there exists a particular space that holds the owner's heart the entry/receiving room. "It feels like stepping back in time the moment you walk in," Reshia expressed with nostalgia. Adorned with an original crystal and amber chandelier, a grand staircase, and an untouched fireplace mantle, this room encapsulates the essence of the home's history.

Discovering Treasures

The renovation process uncovered more than just worn floorboards and aging walls. Bullets and horseshoes offered glimpses into the past, hinting at tales of times long gone. In the 1848 section of the home, beneath its foundations, standard-sized windows, now underground, sparked intrigue, suggesting a lost architectural detail—an original two-story structure. Another fascinating discovery lay beneath the kitchen, where refurbished wood with remnants of colorful paint hinted at the property's vibrant history.

Dreaming beyond the restoration, the Guarnottas danced with the idea of a commercial endeavor rooted in their passion for Italian cuisine and wine. "My husband and I love making Italian food and desserts and had hoped to one day turn the home into a full-service bed and breakfast offering a dining experience inside the historic walls that goes beyond the ordinary," Reshia shared. However, as this magazine goes to print, the Guarnottas have chosen to sell their lovingly restored home to the next preservationist at heart.

Historical Echoes

As with any property steeped in history, the Whitthorne House has stories to tell. In 1869, the house and 50 acres were deeded to W.C. Whitthorne, marking the beginning of a legacy that would endure for generations. Fast forward to 1905, tragedy struck as a fire claimed the original residence, only to be replaced by a new home erected by W.C. Whitthorne, which was later sold to AJ Fly in 1907.

Whitthorne House stands not just as a beautifully restored residence but as a living testament to the history and charm of Columbia. This architectural gem is a prized home ready for new owners to carry its legacy forward. For more information on the Whitthorne House, contact Baker Group Realty.

KATIE BAKER is a local REALTOR and the owner of Baker Group, Maury County’s new boutique brokerage. Baker Group specializes in Fine Properties, Historic Homes, Vacation Homes, and Commercial Real Estate in Middle Tennessee and the Tennessee River. To schedule an appointment with call (901) 351-7235 and follow them on social media at @bakergrouprealty.