CLASSIC IN THE CITY

As an interior designer, there are few working relationships as rewarding as those in which the client has complete faith in their designer. It’s rarely a dynamic that happens instantaneously; rather, it’s achieved by establishing a pattern of positive experiences that give the client the confidence they need to fully hand the reins over to the designer.

That’s the dynamic that emerged between interior designer Lisa Sherry and the owners of this gorgeous Morrocroft Estates house. The homeowners first met Sherry when they were a young couple, new to Charlotte. Two houses and three children later, the couple leads a busy, modern life and continues to rely heavily on Lisa Sherry to help them ground that life in a sophisticated but functional home.

Their new residence, after undergoing a remodel in 2015 by Ruard Veltman, includes seven bedrooms and 7.5 baths, as well as a foyer, dining room, study, living rooms, great room, kitchen, eat-in kitchen, family room, and office. The remodel resulted in a grandiosity that the homeowners wanted to celebrate, but also temper with design elements that feel more authentic and casual, as well as kid-friendly.

Consistent with Sherry’s other designs, this home has a light, neutral color palette. The wall color throughout is Benjamin Moore China White, with the exception of a black jewelbox study. “I believe that texture — rather than lots of color — adds interest, soul, and authenticity to a space,” explains Sherry. She introduced texture via upholstered pieces that are soft and oh-so-touchable, such as the Verellen sofa and modern Mr. Brown London wing chairs in the living room.

Much of the house exudes modernity, perhaps best exemplified by the dining room, where a Julian Chichester round table functions as the centerpiece of the dining room, surrounded by elegant dining chairs and a chaise lounge. Simultaneously, one-of-a-kind side tables and accents made from reclaimed wood have a warming effect throughout the home and contribute to the authenticity the clients sought by offering a found-object vibe.

Overall, the home is bright and airy, in part due to Sherry’s effort to blur outdoor and indoor living spaces, and in part due to the generously-sized windows that bathe the interior in sunlight. “From an interiors perspective, the garden views are art, pure and simple,” says Sherry. Sherry and her team also revamped the courtyard at the back of the house into more of an outdoor living space, introducing sophisticated yet understated outdoor furniture and comfortable gathering areas.

Lisa Sherry calls this home her portfolio’s “classic city house,” tailored to its Morrocroft Estates location almost as much as to her client’s preferences. Generally, Sherry believes each of her clients has unique preferences, just like the spaces she designs for them; however, she notes that they all share one important quality: “Overall, my clients share a desire to live authentically and beautifully,” says Sherry. “They seek soulful interiors, understanding the power of transformation — of spaces and lives.” info lisasherryinterieurs.com

@lisasherryinterieurs

Real Charleston Class

A stay at The Ryder Hotel.

words EMERSON HARDY photos THE RYDER and JOSIE DERRICK

TThe history, romance and Southern charm associated with Charleston, South Carolina cannot be understated. Situated on Meeting Street, a stone’s throw from the glistening waters of the Atlantic, The Ryder offers guests a proper Charleston experience. Take a carriage ride through town with nearby Palmetto Carriage Works, and learn about this storied city’s past while getting great opportunities for photos.

The surrounding area is home to an array of historical sites, such as the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, a Revolution-era prison museum run by costumed reenactors. Some of Charleston’s oldest churches of many denominations are also in the vicinity, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, or the Unitarian Church of Charleston. Spend an afternoon at the Charleston City Market, and immerse yourself in the culture of local food and crafts. The iconic King Street is also nearby, the center of the city’s nightlife and art scene.

Retire for the evening at The Ryder, and enjoy a relaxing drink at the hotel bar, Little Palm. Little Palm specializes in summer-themed cocktails with all of the class and none of the kitsch of a resort vacation. The decor of the hotel also reflects this, utilizing wood, bamboo and palm tree accents to provide the feel of a summer hideaway without going overboard. An array of inroom dining options are available for those wishing to enjoy their day in privacy. Little Palm, in addition to its wonderful cocktails, also offers a variety of food for all manner of tastes; everything from local seafood, to oysters, to marinated olives. You can even get a good old-fashioned American cheeseburger if you’re in the mood for familiarity. e Home of American Golf® beckons all visitors. From world-class golf to local shopping and dining, our welcoming Southern hospitality is why people have been coming home to the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area of North Carolina for more than 125 years. Plan Your SANDHILLS Escape today! www.homeofgolf.com

Nearby, the renowned Hank’s Seafood is a highly-recommended option. Considered by many to be one of the best restaurants in Charleston, Hank’s is a must for the seafood connoisseur, and like Little Palm, also features locally caught fish. If you enjoy live music, catch local musicians and DJs in the evening at Little Palm on Monday, Friday and Saturday. Experience the sounds of Charleston along with your cocktail.

As previously mentioned, rooms at The Ryder are tasteful and minimalist. A wide range of sizes are offered, from queen rooms to hospitality suites, all catered to guest comfort. Guests can even rent a Peloton bike to stay active during their visit, and naturally, the Wi-Fi is complementary.

All things considered, The Ryder Hotel is a great pick for an ideal trip to Charleston, allowing you to be close to the city while still feeling like you got away from it all. Leave your cares behind and enjoy the Lowcountry at The Ryder.