NEST Magazine - Summer 2023

FIND YOUR STYLE

What does LIGHT mean to you? In what ways—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—are you bringing light into your home this season? In this issue of NEST Magazine, we’re focused on all things light and lighting. From the beautiful light fixtures that grace our grandest rooms, to the soft glow of our nightstand reading lights. We’re looking at creative ways to maximize the natural light in your home, digging into the most efficient types of light bulbs and their uses, and exploring fun and colorful lighting to achieve any mood.

As the days grow shorter and we move inward, I hope this issue inspires you to find your light in as many ways as possible!

NEST REALTY nestrealty.com

table of contents

in every issue

4 EDITOR’S NOTE

The importance of good design.

5 ASK A NESTER

The agents of Nest Realty share their thoughts when it comes to designing their homes. places

6 LOCAL LOVE

Style your nest, locally. spaces

8 HOUSE TOUR: Coastal Chic

This Greenville, SC, designer brings her signature style to a coastal retreat.

32 HOUSE TOUR:

Scandi Modern Farmhouse

Scandinavian vibes reign supreme at this modern farmhouse in Durham, NC.

44 CURB APPEAL: Classic Colonial Layered landscaping sets the scene at this lovely Wilmington, NC, home. discover

14 STONE OR CLONE: WHICH IS BETTER?

Choosing the countertop that works for you and your needs.

18 DESIGNING FOR THE SENSES

When design goes beyond what the eyes can see.

22 FINDING YOUR STYLE

Defining your personal design style, with help from eight of our favorite interior designers.

30 CHOOSE YOUR STYLE

Follow our design quiz to reveal your preferred design style.

38 REMODELING SURVIVOR’S GUIDE

How to survive and thrive during a home remodel.

40 MODERN FLORALS

Bouquet building for a contemporary aesthetic.

46 BREAK ON THROUGH TO THE OUTSIDE

The connection of indoor and outdoor spaces.

47 TREND ALERT

When minimal simply won’t do, it’s maximalism to the rescue!

48 BOOKLIST

Your summer reading list, penned by authors local to our Nest locations.

~ Mark Hampton

As interior designer Mark Hampton infers in the quote above, interior design is about more than a space looking pretty—it’s about the feeling it evokes. A thoughtfully curated space may elicit a sense of calm, an air of intrigue, or a jolt of inspiration. Taking the time to set an intention and style for each room, and our homes as a whole, will result in a space that feels as good as it looks.

So how does one establish their style and implement it? In our feature article, Finding Your Style (page 22), we checked in with eight interior designers from around the country to understand the defining elements of their signature style. Does one of them resonate with you? Flip the page to take the Choose Your Style quiz (page 30) to find out!

If, after taking our quiz, integrating your newly discovered style includes a remodel project, head to our Remodeling Survival Guide (page 38), for guidance on countertop selections, check out Stone or Clone (page 14), and don’t miss our Trend Alert (page 47) for product suggestions. Exploring other design styles, we visit a Coastal Chic home and a Scandi Modern Farmhouse in our House Tours (pages 8, 32). We’re also bringing you a prescription for flowers from Dr. Breigh Jones-Coplin in our Modern Florals article (page 40).

We hope these pages spark a bit of intrigue—and inspire you to notice what style resonates with you, along with some practical tips on how to get there, and what’s trending. Don’t be afraid to utilize pieces you already own, go bold with paint colors, rearrange your furniture, and shop locally for additional accessories and artwork.

As always, we can’t wait to see what you create.

JASMINE LISTOU BIBLE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

“Real comfort, visual and physical, is vital to every room.”

ASK A NESTER: How Much Does Style Matter?

We asked the agents of Nest Realty to share their thoughts when it comes to styling and designing their homes. How does your style stack up against our flock?

PRIORITIES, PRIORITIES

When it comes to designing their own homes, perhaps it won’t surprise you to learn that more than 41% of our flock is obsessed with interior design; and another 57% say they are thoughtful about the design of their homes.

NAME THAT STYLE

“Clean and Contemporary” and “Fresh and Funky” are the two design styles that resonated most with our flock. But “Elegant and Elevated” speaks to 19% of Nest agents.

WALK THE WALK

When it comes to developing and executing on interior design, 65% prefer a DIY approach, while 32% employ a mix of professional design help and do-it-yourself.

WHERE TO START?

WE DON’T NEED NO EDUCATION

A whopping 40% of Nest agents agree, “let the kids go wild” when picking out their own paint colors for their rooms. Perhaps a more sane 49% pre-select a few colors before letting the kids in on the decision making process.

When Nest agents are advising clients on style improvements before a potential sale, 67% say they suggest the kitchen as the starting point. 30% recommend focusing on curb appeal.

YOU’VE GOT ONE SHOT

Nearly half of all Nesters said they would completely change the design style of one room or more in their house if given the chance and an unlimited budget, while 14% of respondents said they are perfectly satisfied with the home they’ve created.

COHESION JUNCTION, WHAT’S YOUR FUNCTION?

More than 42% of Nesters believe a fully cohesive home style is crucial, with 22% designing each room uniquely. The remainder? They say they are still searching for that defined style…which camp are you in?

DON’T MUDDY IT UP

We were excited to learn that more than 67% of Nesters let their interior design style spill into their outdoor spaces, placing equal emphasis on the transitions between indoors and out. 13% have a completely unique style outdoors compared to in, while 20% are perpetually stuck in the mud.

Publisher Jonathan Kauffmann Editor-In-Chief Jasmine Bible Design Director Paigelee Chancellor

Contributing Editors Aaron H. Bible, Taylor Titus

Contributing Staff Taylor Ahn, Megan Chandler, Willy Clair, Gilly Davison, Liz Eure, Emily Fenger, Miranda Germano, Elise Moya-Watkins

Contributing Photographers/Videographers Graeme Jenvey, Jennifer Morgan, Cullen Mchale

Published Twice Annually in Charlottesville, Virginia

love LOCAL

STYLE YOUR NEST, LOCALLY

You are unique, and your home should be too. So when it comes to styling your nest, start local. Search the locally-owned home decor stores, boutiques, and vintage shops to find interesting items that speak to you. Supporting local businesses and curating a beautiful home? We like your style.

DESIGNER Michele Johnson

Coastal Chic

When Greenville-based, interior designer Michele Johnson was approached by her clients to completely overhaul a beach home in the Isle of Palms, she jumped at the chance.

Getting to design, source, and style every element from the flooring to the dishes is a designer’s dream, and Johnson has earned that level of trust from her clients during her 20-plus years in the industry. “Creating a space where my clients can relax, recover, and retreat from the hurried pace of their busy lives is so rewarding,” shares Johnson.

DESIGNER LOCATION : Greenville, South Carolina

WEBSITE : michelejohnsondesign.com

Located near Charleston, South Carolina, this beach home, built in the early 2000s, was in desperate need of an overhaul. Johnson and her team were able to take the dark and dated home down almost to the studs, and rebuild a fresh, clean, relaxing, and surprisingly family friendly retreat. “I was pleasantly surprised that the client was completely on board with going mostly white throughout the home. To keep things from feeling too stark or sterile, we used elements of brass, browns, and natural materials,” explains Johnson.

FIRM: Michele Johnson Interior Design

“Seeing the joy and happiness that a beautiful home can deliver is incredibly fulfilling.”

Durable, kid-friendly fabrics and materials that required minimal upkeep were a necessity for the beach home. Nothing could be too precious or serious…balanced and polished, but still appropriate for a family of six.

Sitting at the water’s edge, the views from the living room are allowed to take center stage, with furnishings and artwork playing a supporting role. The sectional is finished in a performance fabric with a subtle geometric pattern that adds a modern edge, and helps disguise wear and tear, “You can hop on it in a swimming suit and not panic,” laughs Johnson.

In the center of the room, above the large jute rug, a leather ottoman serves as a space to rest sandy toes or play board games, which are hidden from view in a bleached wood console. Two hair-on-hide pillows with a leather welt sit atop the high-back wicker chairs. The lounge chair is finished in a pale blue Belgian linen. Johnson adds, “The entire palette of the room mimics the colors of the coast.”

A delicate plaster wreath-like lighting fixture softens the lines of the ceiling without impeding the view of the ocean.

In the kitchen, an oversized hood elevates the entire space and is balanced by a pair of Abica rope light fixtures, suspended above the marble island. Marble flows from the countertops, along the backsplash, and even into the oversized apron front sink, a dramatic statement enhanced by the gleaming faucet fixture. Sterling silver appliances play with brass hardware and lighting. “All silver-toned can look too cold, and all gold-toned can feel too trendy or even gaudy—mixing metals feels timeless,” advises Johnson.

The open floating shelves are adorned with dinnerware and glasses, kept within the strict white and wood palette. A quirky lamp in the corner brings a warm glow at night or early morning.

For the primary bedroom (pictured on page 8), Johnson created an oasis for the parents of four, playing with patterns and scale. “High end doesn’t have to be formal— you can have fun and add some whimsy.”

The headboard of the custom poster bed was finished in a ZAK+FOX textile, with a grid-like pattern forged from iron on the footboard. The snake print by Schumacher slithers across the pillows, resting atop the pair of swivel chairs in Belgian linen, a surprisingly durable material.

The oversized plaster lamps juxtapose natural materials with modern lines. Roman shades in a woven wood block out sunlight and neighbors while lending another natural element to the room, and echo the warm tones of the worn-leather footrest.

In the playroom, to add a touch of personalization, Johnson had swimming trunks that once belonged to the twin boys, suspended in lucite frames. The orange of the trunks is repeated in the oversized pillows with a black and white diamond-pattered material gracing the edges. Both fabrics are by Schumacher.

Cartoonish lamps watch over games of bingo. A concrete table appears to be growing up from the ground, anchored by a cream-hued hide and rounded poofs, created from outdoor performance fabric.

If this style resonates with you and you’re considering going with an all-white home, follow Johnson’s advice: “Rely on heavy textures and organic elements. Add touches of woods, wicker, and leather to keep the overall feeling warm and inviting.” N

Want to re-create the look of this kitchen? The countertops used here are quartz.

Stone Clone: or

which is better?

Choosing the right countertop for the right application.

Until you delve into the decision-making process of choosing countertops, you might not have known what you were even looking for, or what materials were involved. From mudrooms to bathrooms, kitchens, and bars…when you start looking around you quickly realize you have more countertop to cover than you thought. And if you’re starting from scratch, why not make the most informed choice possible? You’ll be faced with options ranging from IKEA butcher block to DIY poured concrete, tile, and a host of synthetic materials referred to as laminates and “solid surface” to choose from. But most high-quality countertops, regardless of size, are made of what is commonly called stone, either natural or enhanced.

When you’re ready to invest in a long-lasting hard surface, what are your options? We checked in with the experts at ABC Stone to better understand some of the most commonly used materials. “Most clients come with the idea that these natural materials are impervious to any staining or scratching, which is not the case, and it’s our responsibility to open their minds to the possibilities of being ok with material aging,” explained ABC Stone VP of Purchasing, Agnes Szymacha.

So sit back with a nice hot drink that you’re someday going to set carefully on your new countertops, and dig in.

Quartz Countertops

Stylish, gorgeous, and easy to maintain—it’s no wonder that the second most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust is also one of the most popular countertop materials in the world. Quartz countertops, also known as “engineered stone,” are made by combining natural quartz and other naturally occurring minerals with about seven percent chemical resins and pigments. The manufacturing process allows “unparalleled creative options…an excellent example of human ingenuity and nature combined,” according to Forbes Homes. They are also extremely durable, nonabsorbent, and resistant to bacteria—a huge upside for bathrooms and kitchens. They never need to be sealed or polished.

The downsides? They are vulnerable to heat, and placing hot items directly on a quartz countertop can cause permanent damage. They are also one of the more expensive options available, and one of the most popular, so selection and wait time could be an issue.

Marble Countertops

Another coveted natural stone for use in countertops, marble is said to be unmatched in terms of variety, beauty, and quality. Intense variations are a result of its sourcing location, impurities in the rock, and naturally occurring unique veining, patterns, and colors that range from black and white, to pink and green. Adding marble countertops to a home creates instant mystique and value. The rich, venous, durable surfaces are ideal for cooking, as the material remains naturally cool.

But like other natural surfaces, it has a porous nature and is not impervious to scratching and staining, and will show age, wear, and tear. So before you invest, be sure that you are okay with the naturally aged look. Cost, of course, is a potential drawback; and marble countertops must be properly installed and cared for to achieve the decades of use that they promise and deserve.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are more porous than quartz, but similarly priced, although with a wider range of affordability—and polished granite remains one of the most popular options for all countertops. Price varies by grade: entry-level or “builder grade,” mid-grade, and high-grade, with higher grades characterized by more unique patterns and sometimes greater thickness. And of course, granite is considered one of the most durable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance countertops out there.

Just make sure it is professionally installed, and be aware that there may be seams, which also must be properly sealed as part of the installation to avoid long-term problems.

Quartzite Countertops

The natural stone version of quartz—one of the less understood, and most expensive countertop options—is quartzite. Although it is more affordable than marble with a similar unique natural beauty, according to global materials supplier MSI, “Quartzite is a very hard metamorphic rock that originated as sandstone. Through a process of heating and pressurization, sandstone is transformed into quartzite, an extremely strong and durable natural stone.” When heated, individual quartz pieces recrystallize, giving it a beautiful and decorative sparkling pattern. “Quartzite is ideal for any countertop surface due to its strength and long-lasting composition. Consider quartzite countertops for strength, beauty, and overall durability,” say the experts at MSI.

That said, like any natural stone, you’ll pay a premium for quartzite. And because it’s a slightly “softer” material, it is prone to scratches from knives and other objects. Also because it is more porous, it is more prone to holding bacteria and to staining, and must be cleaned properly and regularly.

When you’ve decided on what type of stone will work for your lifestyle and budget, we recommend heading to a local countertop source to see what’s available. “Clients are getting more adventurous with colors,” says Szymacha. “Yes, all the classic white Apuan Alps marbles are still in demand, along with white marble from Vermont or Colorado, and this will never change, but there is definitely a lot of interest in colorful quartzites and wildly veined marbles.”

Countertops are typically sold in large slabs, which are then cut to size and installed by the fabricator. The size of slabs can vary by stone type, so pricing can get a bit confusing. Give yourself time to wrap your head around the nuances.

Viewing these incredibly beautiful pieces in person can be fun and inspiring. The texture, veining, and coloring of each slab are hard to capture in photographs. Let your inner design voice guide you and trust that the perfect stone—all-natural, or enhanced—will speak to you. N

Granite Countertops

Marble Countertops

Quartz Countertops

Quartzite Countertops

DESIGNING FOR THE SENSES

DESIGNING SENSES

TEXT BY AARON H. BIBLE

It’s relatively easy to conjure up images of great design in your mind’s eye… but what if you want to do more than see? What if you want to feel the earth and stone beneath your feet, hear the sounds of the environment, smell the smells of your backyard patio, and hear the wind and the chimes beyond your door? This is what is known as sensory design—designing for all of the senses.

Not only is this an artistic, grounded, and holistic way to design landscapes and interiors, it’s also highly inclusive. And when we look at historical references for sensory design, we find an entire world of aesthetic interpretations that go far beyond our sense of sight and enhance lives in ways we didn’t even know existed. Sensory design also plays an important role in product design, transportation, food and beverage, and architecture.

WHAT IS SENSORY DESIGN?

From koi ponds and bird feeders, to labyrinths and fire pits, fans, chimes, and herb gardens, the list of ways to involve sensory experience in your home is limited only by the imagination. If you’ve never walked barefoot on a flagstone path, you haven’t lived. Run your hands along a heavily textured, mossy rock garden wall, and you’ll truly know the boundaries of your home space. Drinking coffee or meditating on a bench next to a small garden pond could add a level of enjoyment to your day and change your entire life. And if you have someone with a disability in your home, whether that means they use a wheelchair or have a sensory impairment, this is your chance to make their life better, too.

DESIGN AS ART (but please touch)

According to The Senses: Design Beyond Vision, “Multisensory design can solve problems

and enhance life for everyone, including those with sensory disabilities. Sensory design activates touch, sound, smell, taste, and the wisdom of the body.” The Senses was published alongside a major exhibition at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum—the only museum in the United States devoted exclusively to historical and contemporary design.

These curators emphasize that the study of sensory design is critical for anyone working in the fields of product design, interior design, graphic and interactive design, sound, animation, data visualization, and “anyone seeking the widest possible understanding of design.”

“Sensory design supports everyone’s opportunity to receive information, explore the world, and experience joy, wonder, and social connections, regardless of our sensory

abilities,” say the curators. “The senses mix with memory. From infancy, human creatures engage in countless acts of lifting, licking, touching, sniffing, throwing, dropping, hearing, balancing, and more, constantly testing the edges of physics to understand or make sense of the world we were born to discover.”

In other words, sensory design in our home connects us to a living, breathing, changing environment that is different for every person. It merges the senses in a way that sight alone cannot. Temperature, sound made by movement, surfaces under our feet and bodies, touch, and taste all affect our neural pathways.

ArchDaily magazine explains that a space that considers all of the senses can trigger feelings such as coziness and warmth, cleanness and comfort. “In addition to room temperature, the texture of wood and warm colors can

provide an extra sense of comfort. While concrete is perceived as a cold material, you can counteract this impression by adding plants, contrasting colors, and other elements to the environment. There are endless possibilities.”

FOLLOWING THE RHYTHMS OF LIFE

No matter whether you experience life with all of your senses, or if you face some kind of sensory deprivation or condition such as SPD (sensory processing disorder), ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response), or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), sensory design can calm the nervous system and put us back in touch with the natural biorhythms of life.

This includes our circadian rhythm, which is connected to our “biological clock,” according

to architect and urbanist Eduardo Souza. Souza says that understanding the role of light in design is crucial for this matter, including carefully planned natural light, use of color, focal points, and artificial lighting. Experts say light in our environment affects everything from mood and energy levels to appetite, ability to focus, creativity, and sleep. With all of the advances in LED lighting technology, there’s no reason not to take your lighting design seriously.

What other areas of your home and outdoor spaces could you incorporate sensory design? A home gym, a back patio, sitting areas, kitchen…what small changes could you make to improve your daily patterns and begin to experience the world around you in new ways? We can’t wait to experience what you create. N

FINDING YOUR STYLE

There’s no denying that when you walk into a well-designed home, there’s an urge to stay a while longer—to linger a bit. But when it comes to designing your own home, it can feel overwhelming if you haven’t ever found a defined, personal style. To help you discover what resonates most, let’s take a look at seven of today’s most well-known and commonly used design styles, and designers who emulate each.

As you flip through these pages, make note of the components that speak to you. Is it a color palette, furniture arrangement, or the use of interesting artwork? All of our designer experts agree: start keeping tabs of what piques your interest. Regardless of what’s on trend or not, find what truly speaks to you. Then step back and try to identify the commonality of repetition, and narrow in on it. You might just find your personal style is already out there, just waiting for you to fall in love.

BRIAN’S DESIGN TIP: Bespoke Berber Moroccan rugs double as artwork, illustrating wooly textures juxtaposed with the rawness of rattan and wood elements.

Text by Jasmine Bible + Bryan Frost

CURATED BOHEMIAN

AKA: Boho, Boho Chic, Bohemia

This is a worldly, whimsical, and free-spirited approach to design that mixes natural materials, organic textures, and often includes well-worn vintage pieces. Wicker, rattan, and macrame are cornerstones of the look. Greenery and tropical elements (hello palm fronds!) bring life to these spaces.

My favorite bohemian elements are attributed to the countries Morocco and Mexico due to their rich artisan-based anthropology.”

Designer: BRYAN FROST Instagram: @BLACKAWNING

RUG Nazeeha, $1760, benisouk.com

CHANDELIER Beatrix Chandelier, $499, westelm.com

PORTRAIT Ukrainian Girl by G.Pushnikova circa 1950, $149, etsy.com/shop/UkrainianFineArt

PAINT Pink Sky, clare.com

PHOTO BY BLACK AWNING

ART-FORWARD ECLECTIC

AKA: Curated, Art-Focused, Bauhaus

When art takes center stage and a room evolves around it, we can label it “Art-Forward.” The art itself becomes the focal point from which all other design elements take their cue. To retain balance, a strict color palette is derived from the artwork. Traditional and vintage elements mingle with amusing, whimsical, and expressive pieces. Welcoming, unique, and thoughtprovoking spaces characterize the look.

amusing, whimsical, and expressive pieces. Welcoming, unique, and thought-

I have a strong belief that homes should be a reflection of the people who live in them: full of life, color, character, and warmth.”

Designer: NATALIE PAPIER Instagram: @HOME_EC_OP

PAINT Sriracha, clare.com

RUG Kaleen Hand-Tufted Origami Wool Rug, $299, houzz.com

ROCKER Quilted Vermont Rocking Chair, $3,100, vermontwoodsstudios.com

ART Peter Keil Abstract Painting on Canvas circa 1970, $4,400, 1stdibs.com

PHOTO BY MEGAN EASTERDAY

MODERN AMERICANA

AKA: Country, Modern Cowboy, Farmhouse

A modern take on a bygone era, warm woods and vintage furnishings set the foundation for traditional patterns like checks, plaids, folk prints, and restrained florals. There’s a beautiful juxtaposition of rugged and refined. Classic, comfortable, warm, and inviting…with bonus points for bricks and fireplaces.

My style could be described as Modern Americana, Ralph Lauren obsessed, pretend cowboy, New England born, filtered through a woodsy Pacific Northwest lens.”

Designer: MAX HUMPHREY Instagram: @MAXWHUMPHREY

SOFA Chesterfield Sofa in Cortina Walnut Frozen, clare.com

WALLPAPER Pacific Northwest, traditional wallpaper, $135/roll, chasingpaper.com

BOOK Lodge: An Indoorsy Tour of America’s National Parks by Max Humprey, $40, amazon.com

PHOTO BY DAVID TSAY

PHOTO BY KAITLIN GREEN

TRANSITIONAL

AKA: Updated Traditional, Relaxed Traditional, Modern Mix

Transitional design features a balance of traditional and modern elements, retaining the class and elegance of the past, while forgoing the stuffiness of heavily woven fabrics, tassels, or ornate lace. This style appeals to a wide audience and feels approachable, calming, and balanced. Saturated colors, tailored textures, and artwork are placed with a delicate hand, while feminine and masculine elements play in harmony.

tailored textures, and artwork are placed with a delicate hand, while feminine

Finley Low-Back Dining Chairs (2), $674, westelm.com

FIXTURE Hanover Large Chandelier, $949, visualcomfort.com

I consider myself a reluctant traditionalist. I love exploring and playing with modern and whimsical design, balanced with classical elements. I find that the tension between old and new, serious with fun, is what creates the most dynamic interiors.”

Designer: LILY BROWN, ASSOCIATE ASID, LEED AP Instagram: @LILYBROWNINTERIORS

PAINT Set in Stone, clare.com

PHOTO BY MARY BRITTON SENSENY

MINIMALIST

AKA: Scandinavian, Scandi, Japandi, Hygee

The sleekest of all the design styles, this clean, restrained, and strict approach takes dedication. Utilizing limited colors and objects leads to a strong visual impact. Bold angles, interesting shapes, whites, and warm woods are defining characteristics. An abundance of natural light is paramount.

Snaregade

Weʼre generally attracted to clean, minimal design but also like interesting shapes and fabrics that provide texture and variety. The dining room light fixture was a splurge, but we knew it was something that would tie the room together!”

Designer: KAREN YUNG + DONALREY NIEVA Instagram: @HIGHCLIFFE.HOUSE

Dining Table, danishdesignstore.com

Chair, $100, Snow Day, clare.com

$1,695, Pendant, $1,100, dwr.com

ikea.com

PHOTO BY DONALREY NIEVA

MAXIMALIST

AKA: Bold, Baroque, Never Too Much

More is more when it comes to this style. More colors, more patterns, more texture. A mixing of vintage pieces, unique one-of-a-kind objects, modern elements, and often some original creations. Loud patterns mingle with bold colors and luxe textures. These spaces make a high visual and an emotional, energizing impact.

“There is never too much in my opinion. When you walk into my home your eyes are drawn to so many different things but it works and in the end, you are enveloped in a home that tells a story.”

Designer: DANIELLE M c KIM Instagram: @TUFTINTERIORS

CONSOLE Mota Burl Wood Storage Media Console, $1,999, crateandbarrel.com

DAYBED Shelter Daybed, $1699, westelm.com

PILLOWS Green Bengal Tiger Stripe, Pair, $175, dressingroomsinteriorsstudio.com

PHOTO BY LYNETTE NEAL MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY

MODERN

AKA: Contemporary, Current, Industrial

A style defined by clean lines and a neutral, monochromatic color palette. Furniture is often placed in a balanced, symmetrical, and linear manner. An abundance of natural light is a defining trademark. Restraint is exhibited when it comes to accessories, opting for sculptural elements and abstract art.

Elements of my personal design style include incorporating minimalist furnishings and abstract art combined with a bold pop of color and pattern. I tend to gravitate toward curved and sculptural furnishings.”

Designer: MERCEDES KERRISON Instagram: @ABODE_STAGING

Dreamscape Watercolor Pillow, 18”, $59, cb2.com

ART Terrazzo print by Kara Schlabaugh, $132, minted.com

PAINT Timeless, clare.com

CHAIR Jagger Dining Arm Chair in Natural, $599, arhaus.com

PHOTO BY SCOTT COSTANZO

CHOOSE YOUR STYLE

Find which style speaks to your sensibilities!

Clean Lines

SUBTLE

Ornate Mouldings

Mood

First

Wallpaper Paint

Worldly

Cool Metals

Warm Woods

Scandi

European Tropical

Bauhaus Baroque

MINIMAL

TRANSITIONAL TRADITIONAL MODERN

Domestic

BOLD

Sputnik Plaid

Art

First

Pastoral Portraits

Abstract

Art

Neutral Colorful

Refined Relaxed

Reliable Unexpected

Natural Fibers Man Made

Tweed Velvet

Tiger Cheetah

BOHEMIAN

MAXIMALIST ART FORWARD

DESIGNERS

FIRM: Lustre Home

HOME LOCATION : Durham, North Carolina

WEBSITE : lustrehome.com

Chyrelle Dorinsky + Zhiela Ashtiani

ScandiModern Farmhouse

TEXT BY JASMINE BIBLE + PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISSA GOTWALS + STILLMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

What began as a home staging business evolved into a successful interior design firm for Chyrelle Dorinsky and Zhiela Ashtiani, friends since attending Virginia Commonwealth University. Eight years later, the Richmond, Virginia-based interior design firm Lustre Home is designing properties throughout the region—from historic renovations to new builds like this modern farmhouse in Durham, NC.

These particular clients are full-time homesteaders, who purchased a piece of land outside of Durham with the intention of creating a residence for their family and a farm for their animals, which now include six goats, five pigs, chickens, rabbits, cats, and a cow named Buttercup.

“The clients were committed to building a home that paid homage to the barns found in Scandinavia,” shares Dorinsky. Beginning with a plan created by architect Todd Addison, the designers, Dorinsky and Ashtiani, helped to establish the look of the exterior, including Cambia siding—a wood that ages and weathers well. The black windows, black roof, and black steel beams offer a strong balance to the warm wood. “Everything was kept very linear with clean lines and minimal flourish, including the black sconces,” explains Dorinsky. They enlisted Jason Radford of Radford Building Company to complete the construction.

The home sits amongst mature trees and backs to a wildlife preserve, so the desire to create fluidity between the indoors and outdoors led to an abundance of windows and large accordion doors positioned on both sides of the first floor. They open fully, allowing for traffic, air, and energy to openly flow from one side to the other.

“When it comes to building a modern home with clean lines, the craftsmanship needs to be perfect. There aren’t mouldings or trim to hide any imperfections.”

With such a strong and bold aesthetic on the outside, the desire for the inside was to bring a softness to the space. “Still rooted in nature, still modern, but warm with earthy elements,” said Dorinsky.

Underfoot, running throughout the main floor and into the kitchen, a durable engineered wood in a light white oak feels distinctly Scandinavian, and will hold up to kids and the occasional farm animal trampling through. For the cabinets, a flat slab with a full overlay is finished in a beautiful jade hue. The countertops are quartz with a terrazzo-like pattern with no veining. Touches of brushed nickel appear on the plumbing fixtures and cabinet hardware, instead of gold-toned brasses which Dorinsky and Ashtiani note could have appeared too yellow in the space.

“For an extra dose of visual interest and texture, we wrapped the hood in reeded white oak,” says Dorinsky. The warm wood tones are echoed in the sconces by Lulu and Georgia on the adjacent wall. The hand-lathed wooden bodies of the sconces add a bit of whimsy and folk to the room, juxtaposed against the cool white tiles behind. The undulation and variance in color of the tiles mimic the appearance of hand-crafted tiles, without the price tag. Dorinsky offers this bit of advice for making affordable tiles look high-end: “The key is to find a grout color that matches the tile and lay them with no spacing in between, in a modern straightstack pattern.”

The island was designed by Dorinsky and crafted by the owner, who runs a custom van build-out business. The piece can be moved around as needed, and offers open access to the owner’s collection of clay pots, bread bowls, and earthy cookware.

For the upstairs primary bathroom, a spa-like feel was the goal. Wanting to make the most of the view of the canopy of trees beyond, Dorinsky and Ashtiani chose a soaking tub set against blush-toned ceramic tiles that playfully bounce light around the room. The scones, sourced from Esty, were powder-coated in a similar pink hue, resulting in a dramatic tone-on-tone effect. Rounded mirrors echo the curves of the sconces.

The custom floating vanity in white was designed by Lustre Home, and built by Radford. “When it comes to building a modern home with clean lines, the craftsmanship needs to be perfect. There aren’t mouldings or trim to hide any imperfections. Thankfully, Jason Radford meticulously built the entire home, including this vanity,” says Dorinsky. Reeded oak was once again used, paired with minimal edge pulls. On the floor, a slate-like tile in a brick mosaic pattern has intentional imperfections for a handmade look and feel.

The kid’s bathroom is a Jack and Jill with bedrooms flanking either side. The fun was turned up a bit with colorful terrazzo tiles on the floor that have flecks of blues, greens, and reds. Sage green tiles envelop the shower and peek behind the vanity. The single pendant overhead brings a funky element… “fun and modern but not too over the top or ornate.”

Does this style speak to you? Would you consider adding notes of modern farmhouse or elements of Scandinavian sensibility to your home? Head to page 22 to hone in on your design style! N

REMODELING SURVIVAL GUIDE

How to survive & thrive during a home remodel.

TEXT BY AARON H. BIBLE

OUR REAL LIFE TIPS & TRICKS

Kitchens and baths….that’s where our Nest agents and investment experts will commonly tell you to put your money when undertaking a home renovation— whether it’s for investment, fix and flip, or the home where you plan to stay for years to come. It also just so happens those are the two spaces in your home you use every day. Your happiness, and sometimes your very survival, depend on them.

Whether you’re a first-timer or experienced contractor…we all suffer in the same ways when it comes to remodeling projects. But sometimes you have to hit rock bottom to get where you want to be, as they say, and a home is no different. Sometimes to achieve a desired style or feature set, you have to get down to the studs and start over. And that’s okay. Just be prepared for the journey.

We’ve tapped into our years of collective experience to bring you this remodeler’s survival guide, aiming to help you successfully navigate a major remodel.

SET A REALISTIC TIMELINE

Any experienced remodeler will tell you about timeline fatigue. You can expect things to take at least twice as long—sometimes three times as long—as they’re “supposed” to take. Especially if you are doing it yourself, expect to encounter countless trips to the local hardware store to pick up that one (insert a million different possible tiny things from drill bits to saw blades to pipe fittings to caulk) thing you need to finish the job. There will also be mistakes. And returns. So set a moderate and realistic timeline as you begin your project. Understand that there will be highs and lows. But keep reading and stick with the plan.

CREATE SAFE SPACES

In the heart of the storm, when your kitchen is in shambles, you’re doing dishes in the backyard, and showering at the gym, you will need a safe space to retreat to within your home. Create clean spaces that can remain a sanctuary during construction. If

you have kids rooms, obviously those will need to be taped off or protected from saw dust, drywall dust, and the many other toxic fumes and dirt you are going to create during your remodel. So perhaps it’s a primary bedroom, a study, or a home gym, but preserve a small piece of sanity for yourself that isn’t going to be covered in dirt or have construction workers tramping through it, ever. Trust us, you’ll want a place to go and meditate during this renovation process.

PLAN AROUND A VACATION

It can be an even better idea to not be around at all during your remodel. Set yourself up for success by going to an in-laws, taking that extended family vacation you’ve been wanting to do, just get the heck out of town for a while. Assuming you fully trust your contractor, have verified their licensing and insurance information, and have a signed contract in place, you are good to go. They likely don’t want you around anyway—as they say, it costs more if you want to help. Give them the time and space to do their job and yourself a little peace of mind by not being around to worry. Set a time when you’ll be back with established progress check points, but take the time away if you can. After all, many appliances and materials are back ordered six weeks or more anyway, so relax. There will be plenty of time to worry when you get back.

TEMPER EXPECTATIONS

Sometimes things just aren’t going to be perfect. Or done. Talk to any long-time homeowner and they’ll give you a list of things around the house that have been waiting to be “finished” for 20 years. Contractors are human and they make mistakes, especially when time and money are at risk. This isn’t some Jo and Chip fantasy show. This is your house, your life, and your investment in time and money. You’ll ultimately have to decide how much to bite off and what you can live with, but going into it knowing that it’s not going to be perfect (or fast, or easy) is the key to your success and happiness. N

“During the pandemic, I started going to the farmer’s market every Sunday and purchasing fresh flowers that I would turn into arrangements throughout my home. The process became so therapeutic. It was having such a positive impact on my mental health. And then I realized I was good at it and maybe this was an untapped talent I should pursue.”

Dr. Breigh Jones-Coplin @Black+Blossomed

Modern Florals

TEXT BY JASMINE BIBLE + PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER MORGAN CREATIVE + SIERRA DANIELS-BAKER

Fresh flowers are more than just lovely. They bring life, energy, and joy into a room. The sweet aroma, the gentle arch of a stem, the delicate movement of a petal, or the sway of greenery each echo the beauty of nature. Beyond the flora chosen, the arrangement of the flowers is indeed an art form in and of itself.

To learn more about how we can tap into the therapeutic benefits that come from having fresh flowers in your home, and the joy of arranging them yourself, we visited Dr. Breigh Jones-Coplin, a professor of clinical psychology and owner of Black+Blossomed, a floral boutique with an Instagram presence known for the bold, modern, and often asymmetrical arrangements that they create.

“Any room can be enhanced by flowers, and the very style of the room can be heightened by a floral arrangement that echoes the sensibilities of the space,”

shares Dr. Breigh. Picture a modern room with a single orchid planted in a mosscovered vessel—versus an opulent avantgarde arrangement, dripping in Spanish moss and dusty purple Victorian roses in a transitional space. The varietal chosen and how it is arranged can completely change the vibe.

Once you’ve honed in on your interior design style, finding the right flowers can be an organic, emotional experience. “Truly trust yourself,” advises Dr. Breigh, “give yourself the freedom to experiment, think unconventionally, and step out of your comfort zone. Choose the flower that calls to you—no matter how loud or outrageous it may feel. Nine times out of ten, it’s going to add an experience to your house.”

Okay, but for those who prefer to follow a recipe, what are some ground rules?

Dr. Breigh breaks it down.

The art and architecture of a contemporary arrangement.

Choosing your flowers

WORK IN THREES

Whichever color palette you choose, follow the rule of threes. If you choose a yellow flower, choose two different types of flowers in different shades of yellow. Then three oranges, three whites, etc. “It creates a sense of balance. It feels colorful but also grounded,” says Dr. Breigh.

INCLUDE TEXTURE

She explains: “Choosing which flowers can be such a mindfulness exercise. Really focus on texture. Choose some that are smooth, some that stick out, some lumpy, some furry. Some shiny, some matte.” The combination of textures will give you much more depth and interest.

WILD GREENS

Instead of traditional greens, Dr. Breigh opts for more interesting stems. Think wax flowers, eucalyptus, palm fronds, Queen Anne’s lace, and anthurium. Or the stunning amaranthus…the drippy greens Dr. Breigh used in the arrangement featured here (and on the cover!).

CHOOSE A VESSEL

Instead of a tall vase that may have a smaller opening, choose a low vessel that has a wide opening at the top so you have room to spread out your flowers. Then to keep each stem where you want it, add a small amount of chicken wire—a one-layer round ball. “Not too much or you won’t be able to fit all the stems,” she advises.

Architecture of an arrangement

WORK FROM ABOVE

Work on a countertop where you can stand over the arrangement, versus eye level, so you can see all around the outside, and into the middle. You want to be sure the arrangement looks good from all angles, not just the front. Dr. Breigh believes the flowers will tell you where they want to be. “If you listen, they will talk to you. You’ll start to get a feeling for which ones create interesting shapes when put together, which flowers clash or complement one another.”

ALL ABOUT THAT BASE

Dr. Breigh often chooses roses as her base flower, placing them first and making sure their architecture is set before building the rest, “I love roses for their beauty and versatility, but dahlias, peonies, or zinnias are also great as a focal flower when they are in season.”

WIDTH OVER HEIGHT

For the signature style that Dr. Breigh has become known for, think low and wide versus tall for your longest stems. The exaggerated reach of eucalyptus brings a romantic, fluid, whimsical feel to the arrangement.

PLACE IN A PATTERN

Dr. Breigh advises placing each stem in a balanced manner— placing one stem high, then the next stem low. Place a stem on the left side, then the right. This will result in a more robust

arrangement overall and there won’t be any vacant gaps at the end. But think balanced, not perfect. You don’t want it to feel like a mirrored version from one side to the other. Forgo stuffy for fun.

GROUP BY COLOR

“I love placing complimentary colored blooms next to each other to elevate the focal bloom and make it pop,” says Dr. Breigh. In this arrangement, the two-toned pink pompom is placed next to a soft peach rose, and the lavender-hued chrysanthemum is surrounded by hot pink statise. You see this same pairing principle in the peach carnation placed next to an orange rose.

ROOM TO BREATH

“Every flower has to have its moment,” is beloved quote Dr. Breigh learned from a mentor. Try to avoid crowding, making sure you can see each and every flower. They can be placed near one another, but none should be completely lost. If you have two blooms that are crowding one another, try trimming the stem of one to vary the height.

Style your whole nest

CREATE COHESION

After you’ve created your dream arrangement, use the leftover flowers and place them into tiny vases to spread around your home. A single bloom in a bud vase placed in the bathroom or dining room can create consistency throughout your entire home.

Now, it’s time to create! Head to your local farmer’s market if possible, or Trader Joe’s for a great selection of affordable flowers. And follow the doctor’s advice: “Have fun. Give yourself the freedom to experiment, think unconventionally, and step out of your comfort zone.” N

Curb Appeal

CLASSIC COLONIAL

Wilmington, North Carolina

FRONT DOOR

This Shaker-style front door is ready to be painted in any exterior color that calls to you. Therma Tru Craftsman Ready-To-Paint 6 Lite Door, $534, lowes.com

LIGHT FIXTURES

Lantern-style light fixtures with an ornate top scroll flank the front door. Ashley Harbour Penny Outdoor Wall Light, Matte Black, $76, lowes.com

DOORMAT

We love the cute and casual greeting on this “hi” doormat. DII Greetings Collection Natural Coir Doormat, 17x29, Hi!, $23, michaels.com

PLANTERS

The tapered lines of this planter bring a modern element to the home. Modern Fiberstone Tapered Planter, $199, rejuvenation.com

COLOR PALETTE

White and black with touches of brick and warm wood feels clean, crisp, and classic.

House: Extra White SW 7006 by Sherwin Williams

Door + Trim: Iron Ore SW 7069 by Sherwin Williams

Patio Ceiling: Oil-Based Wood Stain in Golden Pecan, minwax.com

EXTRA WHITE | 7006

iRON oRE | 7069

OIL-BASED WOOD STAIN IN GOLDEN PECAN

Break on Through to the Outside

Giant glass garage doors and propane fire pits aren’t just for the hip coffee shop or brewery downtown any longer. Modern amenities to design your outdoor living spaces are well within reach of any homeowner.

All it takes is a casual stroll around the neighborhood and you’ll see many homeowners melding the comfort and beauty of their homes with the sunlight and grounding that only comes from being outdoors. Call it a pandemic trend or just a human trend, but it’s wonderful to see people awakening to the power of nature and incorporating new technology and design ideas to expand their living spaces.

People are also staying put longer (the medium tenure for first-time homeowners crescendoed at 18 years in 2022), and working from home more, and so investing in outdoor, livable landscaping just makes sense. The applications of flat-screen televisions (which are now shockingly affordable) and digital projectors, mind-expanding LED lighting options (which are often weatherproof, solar, and energy efficient), bluetooth everything, mood-setting and highly efficient modern gas fire features (pits, stands, and wall units), and reclaimed and recycled outdoor landscaping materials are bringing people’s dreams to life under covered decks and sunken gardens. Ultra-modern amenities like retracting glass garage-style doors or folding panels are now de rigueur for forward thinking homeowners seeking to take advantage of their chosen climate and expand their living spaces seasonally.

A few things to get you started on the outdoor living trend.

If these outdoor-indoor design ideas pique your interest, keep following along with us on this journey. We’ll be delving further into this topic in an upcoming issue.

TEXT BY AARON H. BIBLE

MAXIMALIST DECOR

We love the shift to bold, dramatic, and statement-making interiors. Add a little pizzazz to your home with these sumptuous selections.

TREND ALERT

1. ART This is one print we’re willing to go international for. Moth #37, Canvas Print, $480, anyabrock.com

folded and manipulated.

bold

by

is designed to look like a single piece

to

distinct

and

by

BY TAYLOR TITUS

2. LOUNGE CHAIR Architecturally inspired, this simple yet

chair

that’s

Matra Deep Teal Lounge Chair, $1,099, cb2.com 3. PLATTER The

pattern of this handcrafted ceramic stoneware is created

applying liquid porcelain

textiles

lace. Terrafirma 9” Canape, $79, rejuvenation.com 4. WALLPAPER We’re completely head-over-heels for this folding ribbon wallpaper from the Noman collection. Peacock Blue Folding Ribbon Wallpaper, $98/roll, mitchellblack.com 5. DOORBELL COVER Rosé all day? Okay, you cheeky minx. Ring for Rose Doorbell Cover, $18, anthropologie.com 6. LAMP The dramatic lines of this table lamp are enhanced

the rich oxblood color. Hastings Table Lamp, $249, westelm.com

Books we l ve

Better with NEST

At Nest, we believe in the moments that happen before and after the transactions. Whether you are a seasoned seller or a first-time buyer, our goal is to make your experience throughout the process as easy as possible. We are your guide, your expert, your cheerleader, and your advocate. Things are better with Nest.

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