2024 Fall HOMES- Savannah Magazine by Savannah Magazine

THE HOSPITALITY ISSUE

A PALMETTO BLUFF PROPERTY FIT FOR ENTERTAINING

LYNN RAHN’S LATEST DESIGN FEAT

BARNARD STREET’S NEWEST CHARMER + VACATION COTTAGE

TRAVIS LONDON: The celebrity chef + designer dishes on party prep +

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TABLE CONTENTS of

42 NEW HOME, OLD SOUL

Building character from the ground up on Barnard Street.

Written by MARY FITZGERALD

Photography by MARY BRITTON SENSENEY

58 HOUSE RULES

In The Landings, Clutter Furnishings & Interiors’ Lynn Rahn updates her 1980s patio home in her signature maximalist style, while staying true to its architectural roots.

Written by ALLISON LANE FARMER

Photography by MIKE SCHALK

72 MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK

A creative couple ﬁnds friendly collaboration when designing their Lowcountry vacation home.

Written by KENDALL MCKINNON

Photography by ANNE CAUFMANN

Photo by MIKE SCHALK

A stylish nook inside a

Palmetto Bluff residence designed by the Markalunas Architecture Group, LLC and Leighann Markalunas Design. See more of this home on page 72.

ANNE CAUFMANN

Photography

New homes from the $300s

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WHEN AUGUST THREATENS my overall disposition with its scorching sunshine and hair-curling humidity, I decamp to the friendly shore of Scotland for a dose of dry air and leisurely conversations with friends over cups of tea on sofas topped with Anta cushions — tartan pillows woven in chromatic shades of red and blue to brighten the low light of a Scottish fall and winter.

After marveling at my host’s seemingly endless generosity and ease, I return to Savannah eager to show my circle that same Highlander hospitality, whatever the weather. My Moleskin is ﬁlled with menus and a shopping list punctuated by hosting essentials — wine and artisan crackers from Provisions, taper candles, scalloped linen napkins, a wreath for the front door and a glut of comfortable cushions to ensure dinner party chatter continues until the early morning hours.

The stylish residents featured in these pages remind me that the Hostess City comes by her name honestly, true experts in Southern hospitality, as they welcome family, beach-bound friends and St. Patrick’s Day burnouts into their well-appointed four walls. For many of them, Savannah started as a travel destination, until her balmy embrace turned them from travelers into transplants looking to belong in her shady squares.

Case in point: a couple of newcomers to the Starland District prove age is not a prerequisite to architectural charm with their historically inspired new build (“New Home, Old Soul,” page 42). The design-minded homeowners, Jake Heroux and Jacob Jarvis, prove the details are worth the dedication with their international source list and well-appointed guest quarters. Prepare for major bathroom envy!

A pair of fashion label founders were loyal mountaineers, contentedly living in upstate South Carolina until the allure of life on the water reached its boiling point. With the help of Markalunas Architecture Group, the family dressed their new Palmetto Bluﬀ home to the nines and forged an unexpected friendship (“Many Hands Make Light Work,” page 72).

Meanwhile, decades in “Slowvannah” have yet to stall Lynn Rahn’s decorating fervor as her renovation of a colorful patio home in The Landings proves (“House Rules,” page 58). For the interior decorator and her husband, Jimmy, no house feels like home until it has been glammed up with her signature bohemian style and covered in sumptuous performance fabrics, ensuring the couple’s grandchildren have plenty of room to play.

For some, Savannah’s relaxed pace proves a haven as celebrity chef-turned-interior designer Travis London can attest. The Los Angeles devotee turned south toward home, putting down roots and establishing a design ﬁrm in his grandfather’s hometown (“Life in the Fast Lane,” page 33).

When the fearsome ﬂoodwaters of Ardsley Park threatened her home’s promise of shelter, New York expat Brienne Walsh linked arms with unlikely heroes in her neighborhood to save the foundations of her historic home and her marriage (“Flood Warning,” page 104).

Whatever your hospitality style or preferred humidity level, I hope you savor the endless entertaining inspiration and cherished relationships that make Savannah feel like home sweet home.

Margaret Daniel Guest Editor

PUBLISHER Anita Hagin

EDITORIAL & DESIGN

EDITOR Colleen Ann McNally

GUEST EDITOR Margaret Daniel

DIGITAL & DESIGN DIRECTOR Andrea Burg

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelly Thompson

GUEST COPY EDITOR Andrea Goto

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Britt Scott

CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC DESIGNER Melanie Schmermund

ADVERTISING

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ADVERTISING MANAGER Jill Strauss

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Lane Pelliccione

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE S Corinne Karmiel & Kasey Huggins

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Holly Todd

EXECUTIVE

PRESIDENT Tina Battock

VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE & OPERATIONS Scott Ferguson

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING & PRODUCTION Sherry Brown

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Veronica Brooks

CIRCULATION BUSINESS MANAGER Michelle Rowe

MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS

CHAIRMAN William S. Morris III

CEO Craig S. Mitchell

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CONTRIBUTORS

Mary Britton Senseney Photographer

“New Home, Old Soul” page 42

MARY BRITTON

is an experienced photographer with a demonstrated history of working in the industry for more than 15 years. She has produced widely consumed content for lifestyle brands such as HGTV Magazine, Rust-Oleum, Duke’s Mayonnaise, Country Living, Southern Living, Cooking Light, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Weight Watchers, Food Network Magazine, Beringer Vineyards and more. She resides in Savannah with her husband and two boys.

Michael Schalk Photographer

“House Rules” page 58

MICHAEL SCHALK, born and raised in Coral Springs, Florida, now calls Savannah home. This city is where he met his wife and cultivated his career. He loves it so. Photography has been a part of his life since the early 2000s when he would borrow his mom’s camera to make skateboarding videos. Fifteen years later, he has found his stride in the commercial and lifestyle space.

Mary Fitzgerald Writer

“New Home, Old Soul” page 42

MARY FITZGERALD

is a longtime editor in the design and home furnishings ﬁeld. Her career began in New York City at Family Circle magazine, and since then she has worked for bridal, shelter and lifestyle publications. Fitzgerald is passionate about travel and summers on Cape Cod, Massachusetts — to beat the heat — but is always happy to return “home” to Savannah.

Brienne Walsh Writer

“Flood Warning,” page 104

BRIENNE WALSH is a New Yorker who moved to Savannah three years ago with her family — and never wants to move again. A writer, photographer and art critic who has contributed to The New York Times, Architectural Digest, Interview, Art in America and Real Simple , among many other publications, Brienne currently teaches a class on art criticism at Savannah College of Art and Design.

Allison Lane Farmer Writer

“House Rules” page 58

ALLISON LANE FARMER is a Charleston-based freelance writer and marketing consultant. Her passion for new places, inspiring design, and a great story has led to Airstream trips down Florida’s dirt roads, dive bars in New Orleans, and countless backroad produce stands. While not clacking away at a keyboard, Allison can be found spending time with her husband, toddler son, and their perfectly misbehaved dog.

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WHERE DISTINCTION MEETS DESIRE

Redeﬁning the art of living with a collection of extraordinary properties that promise unparalleled elegance and sophistication. Whether you seek a modern masterpiece, a classic estate, or a serene retreat, our curated portfolio of luxury homes is designed to meet the highest standards of excellence.

For more than two decades, savvy locals have counted on Savannah magazine’s annual Best of Savannah survey for reader recommendations on the city’s best dining, retail and services. Seventeen years ago, we kicked oﬀ the Best of Savannah Homes, a readers’ choice survey dedicated to the city’s architectural beauty and the experts who care for it.

When the refrigerator needs repair or the guest room needs a remodel, we all look to our friends and neighbors for referrals. So we’re asking you, our readers, to share your local referrals for Savannah’s best home professionals. Your neighbors will thank you!

Best Antique Furniture Store:

Best Antique Mall: ____________________________________________________________________

Best Apartment Complex:

Best Appliance Store:

Best Architecture Firm:

Best Assisted Living/Retirement Community:

Best Bath Design Company:

Best Bath Supply Company:

Best Blinds/Shutter Company: _________________________________________________________

Best Cabinetmaker:

Best Carpet Cleaning Service:

Best Carpeting Company:

Best Chimney Sweep:

Best Closet Company: ________________________________________________________________

Best Concrete Company:

Best Countertop Company: ___________________________________________________________

Best Custom Art Framing Company:

Best Custom Home Builder: ___________________________________________________________

Best Door Retailer: ___________________________________________________________________

Best Electrical Contractor:

Best Fabric Company:

Best Fencing Company:

Best Furniture Store (New): ____________________________________________________________

Best Furniture Store (Used):

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Best Interior Decorator:

Best Interior Design Firm: _____________________________________________________________

Best Kitchen Design Company: ________________________________________________________

Best Kitchen Supply Showroom: _______________________________________________________

Best Landscape Design Company:

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Best Lighting Showroom:

Best Local Furniture Maker:

Best Lumber Company:

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Best Mortgage/Lending Institution:

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Best Nursery/Garden Center:

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Best Outdoor Lighting:

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Best Paint Store (specify location): ______________________________________________________

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Best Pest Control:

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____________________________________

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______________________________________ State: __________ Zip: _____________________ Phone: ___________________________________

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New & Noteworthy

Acclaimed Savannah-based artists Trish Andersen and Michael Porten are teaming up for a joint exhibition at Laney Contemporary this fall — the first showing together for the husband and wife. Expect a mix of collaborative and individual works across various media, including painting, fiber and sculpture, plus combined elements of all of the above. The artwork draws inspiration from both their personal and shared experiences, including recently becoming parents. The show opens with a reception on Nov. 15 from 6-8:30 p.m. and runs through Jan. 18, 2025.

Photo by ROBIN BIRDY // Courtesy

from

Southern Crafted oyster knife

GET A JUMP START on holiday shopping with some help from the Instagram darlings behind @juliamcgaheeart and @hellosundayhouse. The local creatives and long-time friends have teamed up for a Julia McGahee Art x Sunday House collectible collaboration zipper pouches, clutches and wine totes that celebrates their love for fun pattern, ruffle details and long-lasting hydrangeas. Shop online at juliamcgaheeart. com … For more artisan goods, head to Southern Crafted (114 Bull St.), a downtown shopping destination that focuses on Southern-made goods for the kitchen, entertaining and setting the table in style. Founded by husband-and-wife team Ashley and Deborah McCorkle, the store draws on Ashley’s expertise in marketing and furniture-making and Deborah’s two decades in luxury retail. Stop in and stock up on heirloom-quality pieces, such as limited edition oyster knives with handles made from a McCauley Park live oak, copper serving spoons from Nashville-based artisan Ben Caldwell or a bowl crafted from honeysuckle vine by Anne Scarpa McCauley. … Interior design firm has recently opened its retail showroom in Bluffton, South Carolina (17 Buckingham Plantation Drive). Inside, browse an edited mix of objects, custom furnishings and original art has an emphasis on natural, organic, and textural materials that are designed to be used year-round.

DESIGN CALENDAR

OCT. 11 – JAN. 5

In partnership with the National Museum of American Illustration, Telfair Museums’ Jepson Center presents “Normal Rockwell & Peers: Illustration Childhood,” with more than 60 works.

OCT. 26

Held at Kehoe Iron Works and hosted by Meredith and Taavo Roos and Ashley and Anthony Koncul, the Historic Savannah Foundation’s Annual Gala honors the importance of preservation.

NOV. 7

Home,” Mika and Brian Kleinschmidt, purchased their own second home within walking distance of Forsyth Park. In the Season Five episode, the Kleinschmidt transform a townhome with help from design illuminaries, including Anne Pappas Interiors, Asher + Rye, Garden State Tile, Friedman’s Framing and artist Julia McGahee. The show is available for streaming on Hulu and Max.

organic,

MEMBERS ONLY

A private members’ club for home exchange has expanded to Savannah. Driven by a community of like-minded people who enjoy traveling without sacriﬁcing the comforts of home, Swiftstay allows members to share their homes while traveling to sought-after destinations. Beyond Savannah, explore a range of listings from charming cabins to city lofts in locations such as Atlanta, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; Asheville and Charlotte, North Carolina and Nashville and Chattanooga, Tennessee, among others. Learn more at tryswiftstay.com.

Kick oﬀ the festive season with Proper English’s Holiday Soirée beginning at 5 pm. Held inside Barry Mason’s Twelve Oaks shop, guests can get a ﬁrst glimpse at their curated essentials for hosting.

NOV. 15-16

Palmetto Bluﬀ ’s Artist in Residence series continues with the Virginia-based, hand-crafted cast iron kitchen and barware company, Blanc Creatives. Enter the world of hand-forging and artisanal mixology with a hands-on bar spoons workshop led by Corry Blanc. Purchase tickets at palmettobluﬀ.com

Julia McGahee Art x Sunday House

Left

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LIFE IN THE

FAST LANE

TRAVIS LONDON

Studio London

Written by MARGARET DANIEL

TRAVIS LONDON’S CREATIVE ROOTS are as cosmopolitan as his surname. With a palate informed by his Mexican and African American grandparents, an education from the French Culinary Institute and a roster of Hollywood A-lister foodie clients, London’s influence spread far under the California sun via food venture Healthy Chic Eats and his weekly food column for OK! Magazine. Eager to give his fast-lane life a new flavor, London set his sights on the interior design world, establishing Studio London while simultaneously relocating to the East Coast with his husband, Bruce Douglas Patrick, setting up residences in Miami and Savannah. Read on for the tastemaker’s tips for hosting flawless fall soirees and crafting signature interiors.

Photo courtesy TRAVIS LONDON

“I design interiors that are welcoming, comfortable, familiar and layered. I hope my interiors delight and are also complex enough to make people think.”

Travis London

ON HIS SEASONAL ENTERTAINING STAPLES

One of my favorite dishes that we make in place of Thanksgiving turkey, and throughout the fall season, is red wine-braised short ribs. The short ribs are falloﬀ-the-bone delicious, loaded with ﬂavor and are that comfy cozy meal that hits the spot.

But for an al fresco aperitivo hour, my favorite thing to serve is whipped ricotta crostini. In summer, I’ll top it with sliced peaches and prosciutto, and, in the fall, I use sliced tomatoes and prosciutto with a balsamic glaze. It’s so easy and quick to make, delicious and presents well.

I love mixing patterns to create a more eclectic tablescape — I always say more is more. My go-to

VENJHAMIN

300 Drayton Street, Savannah, GA 31401

5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 6,000 Sq Ft

$5,950,000

Full floor penthouse in Savannah’s national landmark historic district with additional 4,000 sq ft private rooftop garden with bar. Sweeping views throughout, built-in bookcases, custom finishes, and open-concept entertainment kitchen. Richard Mopper (912) 663-5500

119 E 37th Street, Savannah, GA 31401

6 Bedrooms | 11 Bathrooms | 7,262 Sq Ft

$3,200,000

Opulent estate in downtown Savannah on highly visible blvd lined w/ oak trees. Most recently operating as restaurant. Six dining rooms, brick wine cellar, event spaces and fully landscaped outdoor patio. Corner lot 0.41 acre with TC1 zoning. Jessica Kelly (912) 441-9101

39 Washington Avenue, Savannah, GA 31405

6 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | 5,861 Sq Ft

$2,995,000

The Lattimore House, built in 1910 for Ardsley Park developer William Lattimore, features a grand entry hall with spectacular curved staircase, 850-bottle wine cellar in basement, 2 bedroom carriage house, 2 car garage, and putting green. Kimberly Ergul (912) 398-7222

212 W Bay Street, Savannah, GA, 31401

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2,400 Sq Ft

$1,995,000

A remarkable penthouse residence with a balcony off the living room and a roof top garden, both with exceptional views of River Street and the Savannah River. Active Short Term Vacation Rental certificate in place coming fully furnished. Richard Mopper (912) 663-5500

plates are by Ginori, and you can always ﬁnd yellow, deep purple and green ﬂowers in any arrangement at my house. Yellow is such a happy color, and I love seeing it popped in with other rich, sexy tones.

Before every gathering I host, I curate a playlist based on the desired vibe and who I am having over. For fall, I gravitate toward the classics like Perry Como, Anita Baker and Barbara Streisand.

ON HOSTING IN THE SOUTH

Southern hospitality, to me, is all about the way one hosts. It’s making sure your guests are always accounted for, and their time is a pleasurable one where you have thought of everything, and they can get lost in a moment.

ON HIS DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

Designing a home is like falling in love over and over again. The hallmarks of a comfortable home are ﬁlled with the things that truly bring you joy and that you truly love. I design interiors that are welcoming, comfortable, familiar and layered. I hope my interiors delight and are also complex enough to make people think.

If someone wants to work with me, they aren’t looking for something conventional. I love to design spaces that, while colorful, are deeply personal. I respond to my clients’ needs and present them with new ideas.

ON HIS DECORATING NON-NEGOTIABLES

First, there is nothing quick. If someone comes to you with a renovation plan and says to do it quickly and cheaply, run. Nothing quick is ever good. Second, your biggest return on investment will always be an updated kitchen. If you don’t have a lot of money, update the kitchen. It’s the heart of every home so you will get a great return in many ways.

Last, but not least, changing your lighting can be such an easy, extremely aﬀordable thing to do that instantly transforms a space.

ON HIS OLD/NEW SOUTHERN ROOTS

My grandfather was from Savannah, and I grew up hearing wonderful stories about his life here. My ﬁrst time in Savannah, I instantly felt a deep connection, and I wanted to become a part of its story. I fell in love with this place, the history and the people. You

meet the most genuine and kind people here and, after living in big cities for so long, it’s very refreshing.

ON THE UPSIDES OF JET-SETTING

Miami is my happy place. I love the beaches, the culture and the colors. The city is exciting and there is always something to do or someone to see.

Savannah does the opposite. It brings me peace, calms my soul and calms my designs. It is a place where time stops, and it has reminded me of the importance of preserving the past, which is essential in design, as nothing is ever truly new, just a reinterpretation.

TAKE a SEAT

WEXFORD IRISH PUB

Stay Awhile

Savannah is already well known for its hospitality as well as its strong ties to Ireland, with the city’s 200-year-old St. Patrick’s Day parade ranking as one of the largest in the United States. Now, a new pub at City Market is elevating Savannah’s Irish culture through its thoughtful design.

Written by COLLEEN ANN MCNALLY // Photography by MIKE SCHALK

On the second level, a booth at the back of the bar offers a cozy spot to enjoy a pint and live music.

WEXFORD PUB IS NOT YOUR AVERAGE IRISH PUB. Considered a super-pub in the hospitality industry and one of only a handful of such in America, the new gathering place spans 14,000 square feet across three stories in City Market, and employs more than 100 people.

Still, for a business so large, the interior design strategically creates many snugs and cozy nooks for small groups and intimate conversation — making it the ideal place to grab a bite during the cooler months.

Led by Darren Fagan, the contracts manager, business developer and senior project manager of The Irish Pub Company’s Atlanta oﬃce, the $5 million renovation exported

materials from Dublin to Savannah by ship and assembled and built here, transforming the historic building into a little piece of the Emerald Isle.

The pub’s name is a nod to Ireland’s County Wexford, the region from which many people migrated to Savannah in the 19th century. The Savannah-Wexford connection endures today, thanks in part to Georgia Southern University’s Center for Irish Research and Teaching, and now, Wexford Pub.

“There is no doubt that authenticity is embedded throughout the venue,” says Fagan. “[The pub] is a stunning place to visit, full of Irish culture and tradition that will bring people to Ireland for a moment and then bring them on the journey from Wexford to Savannah.”

REAL HOMES

New Home, Old Soul

Building character from the ground up on Barnard Street

Written by MARY FITZGERALD // Photography by MARY BRITTON SENSENEY

WANDERING THROUGH the Thomas Square neighborhood in downtown Savannah, you might never guess this house on Barnard Street is a new build. But that’s precisely the look homeowners Jacob Jarvis and Jake Heroux were aiming for. The couple wanted their home to blend seamlessly into the vernacular of the historic Starland neighborhood. “Our primary goal was to create a space that felt like it had been here for many years — full of all the charm and craftsmanship you’d expect to see in a much older home,” Jarvis says.

A visit to the Hostess City was the catalyst for these native North Carolinians to put down roots in Savannah. “We immediately fell in love with the natural beauty of the city, the many local restaurants and bars, the proximity to the coast and, of course, all the beautiful historic architecture,” Jarvis says. Making the move in 2021, they intended to buy and restore an older home, but after repeatedly being outbid on potential properties, their real estate agent suggested they consider building instead. Jarvis’ mother found the Starland lot while searching online, and the couple quickly jumped on it. Sandwiched between older homes, the land had been vacant for quite a while, but Jarvis and Heroux saw the potential for something great. They were immediately drawn to the walkability of the downtown district, the

Jacob Jarvis and Jake Heroux

A barrel vaulted ceiling treated with subway tiles does double duty, creating an intimate eating area and camouﬂaging an angle created by the adjacent stairwell.

artistic community, and what they called “the forward future momentum of the neighborhood.”

Once the lot was secured, the next step was to ﬁnd an architect and builder. They interviewed nine local home builders before choosing Waters Building + Design, who then referred them to architect Demetrius “Meech” Huddleston. The couple worked collaboratively with both to create a traditional, timeless home ﬁlled with character, distinctive details and all the amenities of modern life. They wanted to create a “love letter” to Savannah in the form of a house that instantly felt at home in its surroundings and embodied a classic spirit.

Building in a new city on the heels of the pandemic is not an easy feat. “We were just naive enough to be fearless,” Jarvis jokes. But seriously, Jarvis and Heroux were well-equipped for the challenge. Their temperament and talents complement each other — Jarvis has a background in information technology and Heroux in communications/marketing and customer service management.

“Our primary goal was to create a space that felt like it had been here for many years — full of all the charm and craftsmanship you’d expect to see in a much older home.”

Jacob Jarvis, homeowner

Jarvis took the lead on the interior design and admits to being obsessive when it comes to the details. “If there are 500 options,” he says, “I feel like I need to go through every single option before I make a decision.”

They did their homework, sourcing the best materials from near and far, including lighting from Australia and Ireland, hardware from the United Kingdom, millwork from Jarvis’ hometown of North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, reeded transom windows — also from North Carolina — and stairs from a company in Wisconsin. Looking for budget-friendly options whenever possible, they were not afraid to combine high and low products, as long as they met their standards and speciﬁcations.

A refined yet approachable aesthetic was achieved with handsome built-ins, wood casework and layered mouldings in a moody, masculine color palette. In the living room, a turn-of-the-century mantel was the foundational piece. Found at Lee Smith Antiques downtown and believed to be from the mid-Atlantic region, it was fully restored and painted in Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black. The fireplace is flanked by custom wood bookcases — designed by Jarvis and built by AWD of Savannah

A Coastal Retreat on Isle of Hope, GA

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Starting from the exterior, the home’s garage features Atlantic Premium Shutters which provide protection against the elements

while adding lowcountry coastal charm. As your local experts in exterior treatments, we offer a wide range of options to enhance curb appeal and keep your home safe.

In the media room, boasting views of the custom-built design studio treehouse, our team installed Hunter Douglas Vignette Roman Shades with PowerView Automation. Because we were involved early, we could modify the electrical wiring for these shades to create a sleek, built-in look for a clean and modern feel.

For the master bathroom, our design team opted for Norman Woodlore Shutters, perfect for its moisture durability and adjustable louvers to ensure total privacy. These shutters complement the room’s serene and southwest inspired aesthetic

in enhance design Vignette were these feel. Norman and shutters aesthetic

By working together from the start, we were able to tailor each solution to fit their unique needs, resulting in a beautiful home both inside and out ready for move-in day.

WHY CHOOSE SAVANNAH BLINDS?

From initial consultations to final installation, Savannah Blinds is your partner in designing windows that reflect your home’s style and needs. Our team is experienced in both interior and exterior treatments, guaranteeing a polished finish for any project.

— ﬁnished in an Antique Coﬀee stain. Under the stairs, the cabinetry, painted in Farrow & Ball’s Studio Green, conceals a coat closet and a cozy sleeping nook for the couple’s puggle, Nero. The architect recommended the dramatic cased wood archway to visually separate the open-concept living and kitchen areas. The arch motif is repeated throughout the house — there are seven in total — to create continuity.

When envisioning how he wanted the kitchen to look and feel, Jarvis was inspired by bespoke British brand deVol. He designed the English-style cabinetry to emulate furniture and had the custom cabinets built by AWD of Savannah, then painted in the same Studio Green found in the living room. Appointments such as the marble picture ledge, custom hardware and handcrafted lighting add to the artisanal aesthetic.

Countertops of Portinari marble line the perimeter, partnered with a dark soapstone on the island — all fabricated by MultiStone in Savannah. The actual stone was sourced online, a slightly risky option admits the couple, but it was a significant cost-saver, and they were pleased with the end result. Tile from Garden State Tile lends another textural note behind the range. “Jake and I both love to cook,” Jarvis says, “so designing a kitchen that allowed us to cook together was important to us.”

The tile is echoed in the dining nook, where a barrel ceiling treatment cleverly disguises an awkward angle created by the adjacent stairwell and deﬁnes the intimate eating area. A friend from North Carolina, Craig DeCicco of DeCicco Woodshop, built the one-of-a-kind dining table, fashioned from an oak tree removed from the property prior to construction.

The architect originally earmarked the space behind the kitchen for a large walk-in scullery, but the couple opted to convert this space into a home oﬃce. The color story continues with the green cabinetry, paired here with a French ticking stripe wallpaper from Magnolia. The ceiling moulding design mimics that of the living room.

A small but mighty powder room is papered in House of Hackney’s Trematonia pattern in Onyx and contrasted with Benjamin Moore’s bold Cottage Red paint. A pair of

cheeky hand sconces from Ballard Designs (selected by Heroux) illuminates an RH console with a soapstone top and a decorative backsplash, also by MultiStone.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom is a sophisticated sanctuary, dressed in Cole & Son’s Fornasetti Nuvolette wallpaper and painted wainscoting. A porch off the bedroom provides an intimate spot to enjoy a morning coffee with a bird’s-eye view of the neighborhood. The en suite bath takes its cue from a luxury New York City hotel bathroom. Jarvis studied the vintage floor found in an inspiration image and mimicked the pattern to create the rug border motif with mosaic tiles from Garden State Tile. Plumbing fixtures from Ferguson, RH vanities and mirrors found on Amazon complete the space.

The rear courtyard is a favorite spot for the two to entertain friends and family. Landscaping by Victory Gardens and tabby pavers from Savannah Surfaces are in keeping with the historic integrity of the new/old home. A path leads to the adjacent carriage house, which includes a garage and a STVR (short term vacation rental). Named the Cottage at Verdant House, the accommodations welcome guests to Savannah with two bedrooms, a well-appointed bathroom (including another antique clawfoot tub), a fully-equipped kitchen and all the high-end amenities one would expect from a luxury hotel, all in the comfort of a cozy cottage that feels like home. The ﬁnishes are as thoughtful and upscale as the main house, including herringbone-patterned ﬂoors, full-size appliances, custom cabinetry and charming bedrooms decorated with Morris & Co. wallpaper.

“One of our goals as a couple has always been to lean into the experience of hosting others. We were raised to welcome others into our home and make them feel comfortable,” Jarvis says. “We also loved the idea of a multiuse space we could reserve for our friends and family when they came to visit.”

Despite some sleepless nights in the process, the couple is proud of the result. In fact, so energized by their accomplishments, they have started their next venture, a design studio dubbed Verdant House, to oﬀer assistance to others who want to follow in their footsteps.

DETAILS

Homeowners: Jacob “Jake” Heroux and Jacob Jarvis

Neighborhood: Thomas Square/ Streetcar Historic District

Year built: 2024

Number of bedrooms and bathrooms: ﬁve bedrooms (three in main house and two in carriage house); 3.5 bathrooms (2.5 in main house and one in carriage house)

Square footage: 2,967 square feet (1,915 in main house and 1,042 in carriage house)

Architect: Demetrius Huddleston

Interior designer: Jacob Jarvis, Verdant House

Builder: Waters Building + Design

General contractor: Shawn McConnell

Landscape design: Victory Gardens

Courtyard tile: Savannah Surfaces

Custom cabinetry: AWD Savannah

Countertops: MultiStone

Cabinet and door hardware: Yester Home

Plumbing and appliances: Ferguson

Tile: Garden State Tile installed by Kent Phillips of Sunrise Restoration

Paint: Farrow & Ball; Benjamin Moore; Sherwin-Williams

Wallpaper: House of Hackney; Morris & Co.; Cole & Son

Wood ﬂooring: Eckards Flooring

Lighting: Mullan Lighting; Edison Light Globes; RH

Exterior windows and doors: Guerry Lumber

Interior transom windows: Transoms Direct

Stairs: Kinzel Wood Products

Trim and millwork: East Coast Moulding

House Rules

In The Landings, Clutter Furnishings & Interiors’ Lynn Rahn updates her 1980s patio home in her signature maximalist style, while staying true to its architectural roots

Written by ALLISON LANE FARMER // Photography by MIKE SCHALK

Antiques and vintage treasures from Rahn’s storefront on Mall Boulevard pop against bold, black walls.

“ALL A HOUSE IS, IS BRICKS AND MORTAR, and then it’s what you do to it,” says Lynn Rahn, whose name has become eponymous with interiors, home staging and her Mall Boulevard store, Clutter Furnishings & Interiors. For the uninitiated, Clutter is a vintage furniture consignment shop full of treasures and unexpected ﬁnds hand-selected by Rahn and her daughter, Brooke Chancey.

So when Rahn received a call from a real-estate agent asking her to take a look at the furniture in a new listing, it wasn’t the furniture that caught her eye, but the bricks and mortar that surrounded it. “I felt really called to this house, and I didn’t know why,” she says. “It was meant to be for us to be here. There was a pull.” Then, there was a lot of work to do.

Indeed, not one surface went untouched in the months after the designer and her husband, Jimmy, purchased the house. Unbelievably, the top-to-bottom renovation did not require moving any walls or making any changes to the existing layout. “We kept the integrity of the house,” Rahn says. “We were able to take this house and make it fresh again and not take out a wall. I don’t believe that you always have to take out a wall to make it a really memorable space.”

“We have probably 200 to 300 pieces of art in this house. I’m a gallery girl. I like walls full of art.”

Lynn Rahn, homeowner and owner of Clutter Furnishings & Interiors

The home, designed by the late John Gregory & Associates, is a shining example of playful 1980s architecture — all high ceilings, varying angles and an asymmetrical rooﬂine, oriented around a central patio. In lieu of windows, the home has sliding glass doors, blurring the lines between outside and in, ﬁlling the interior spaces with natural light.

Rahn, whose design eye has been honed after four-plus decades in the industry, bathed the walls in Benjamin Moore White Dove, a creamy oﬀ-white, and true black paint, both chosen to showcase her vast art collection.

“We have probably 200 to 300 pieces of art in this house,” she says. “I’m a gallery girl. I like walls full of art.” True to her word, Rahn’s walls are ﬁlled with everything from traditional oil portraits to post-war abstract pieces. A taxidermied Hereford bull overlooks a colorful abstract work attributed to Leibhardt in the living room (artist’s full name is unknown), while on the opposite wall, a troupe of similar taxidermied mounts hang above an antique lamp Rahn has updated with a kelly green shade.

“This house is probably my favorite because her style has evolved,” Chancey says. “She follows our golden rule: you acquire what you love.”

“This is our 14th house, and by then, you know what you like and don’t like,” Rahn asserts. Her no-fuss philosophy to design carries through to the kitchen, where she has artfully arranged emerald green subway tiles by Cemento in a geometric pattern. The result is a colorful backsplash-turned-focal point imbued in her signature hue.

Vintage taxidermy and leopard print lampshades keep Rahn’s living space from feeling tame while colorful artwork above the ﬁreplace ties the daring color scheme together.

A bonsai folding screen and vintage lamps anchor a cozy sitting area in the primary suite.

“Green is my favorite color, and the house kind of speaks to green because it’s sitting on a fairway,” Rahn says.

Pops of green can be found in every room throughout the home in a smattering of applications. Two green lamps sourced by Rahn while antiquing in Atlanta stand center stage in the lady’s room, while in her primary bathroom, she’s selected a wall-spanning screen depicting a bonsai tree in a vibrant shade of green. The screen, which wouldn’t sell at Clutter, was relocated with the help of Rahn’s husband and set atop two-by-fours for stability. Along the other wall, Rahn has displayed her grandchildren’s artwork, a handwritten letter and various personal treasures, curating a space that has quickly become her favorite place to decompress and unwind. The suite is a perfect example of Rahn’s eclectic and approachable take on design. “Everything here has been collected through the years,” she says.

The real magic comes in Rahn’s ability to mix pieces from diﬀerent periods and design styles.

In the bathroom, a gold midcentury Lee Reynolds piece hangs alongside two ornate gold mirrors. The juxtaposition is a theme for Rahn, who deftly and expertly toes a multitude of lines in her home. There are layers of artwork and taxidermy, yet her rooms never feel too crowded. She has a host of ﬁne antiques, yet her home feels relaxed: a place where selfexpression is encouraged.

Ensuring her home felt inviting was important to Rahn. “When somebody comes to our house, it’s cozy and it’s very welcoming,” she says. “Keep it casual,” says the designer, who outﬁtted the hall closet with a built-in bar. “Don’t get so caught up in it, and don’t take yourself so seriously.”

True to her word, Rahn has eschewed any “rules” for design, following only Clutter’s golden rule: acquire what you love.

“Her house is her sanctuary and she’s created that,” Chancy says.

DETAILS

Homeowners: Lynn and Jimmy Rahn

Neighborhood: The Landings

Year built: 1986

Year Purchased: 2021

Bedrooms/bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms

Square footage: 3,000

Architect/builder: John Gregory & Associates

Interior Designer: Lynn Rahn, Clutter Furnishings & Interiors

Kitchen countertops: MultiStone

Furniture: Clutter Furnishings & Interiors

Porcelain bath tile: Cemento

Collection, installed by Kent

Phillips

Wood ﬂooring: original to house

Widows and doors: J+L Glass

Paint: Benjamin Moore (Jeff Beamon & Associates)

Accessories and art: Clutter Furnishings & Interiors

Many Hands Make Light Work

A creative couple ﬁnds friendly collaboration when designing their Lowcountry vacation home

Written by KENDALL MCKINNON // Photography by ANNE CAUFMANN

Landscape architect Witmer Jones Keefer designed a luxurious pool deck with latticed greenery commanding attention and ensuring comfort.

WHEN MELISSA AND MIKE PEREYO , co-founders of apparel brand OOBE, set out to craft their ideal vacation home in Palmetto Bluff. Residents of Greenville, South Carolina, the couple dreamed of a private oasis with marshland views to serve as their family’s summer getaway.

One lot overlooking Cauley’s Creek oﬀered the scenery they were looking for in spades, though the space was tightly bound on either side by neighboring homes. Seeking help to design a modern home that maximized the view without sacriﬁcing privacy, the Pereyos turned to Tom and Leighann Markalunas of Markalunas Architecture Group and Leighann Markalunas Design.

“When we identiﬁed the property, we tried to be really intentional to make sure that we weren’t just building a house, but we were trying to create a home,” Mike says.

A creative professional himself, Mike understood what the design process would be like and aimed to leave room for the experts to roam free. The couple brought some speciﬁcs to the table, such as ﬁve bedrooms and a private pool deck, but even Melissa’s proposed mood board was an open-ended conversation starter rather than a requirement.

An open staircase creates a cozy nook for record playing and reading. Beloved band posters and memorabilia pop against the white shiplap walls.

“Away from our upstate routes, this is a place where we can come and really ﬁnd some rest and silence and solitude.”

Mike Pereyo, homeowner

“We had a vision to not put boundaries on what we were looking for so we wouldn’t stiﬂe the creative process,” Mike says. “We spent a lot of time with Tom and Leighann to talk through some of the things that were important to us, and then let their talents and their gifts shine.”

The Pereyos and the Markalunases drew up a home that seamlessly blended Palmetto Bluﬀ’s neutral and textured aesthetic with standout modern and industrial features. “We juxtaposed more modern material, like concrete walls with more textural elements that speak to the local vernacular,” Leighann says.

The team prioritized locally crafted materials and drew inspiration from regional suppliers, with the majority of the home’s custom wood, iron and metal work sourced from Lowcountry artisans. Incorporating unexpected materials — including steel doors from an old textile mill and reclaimed rack house oak from bourbon barrels as an accent wall — added to the home’s sense of place while creating a oneof-a-kind atmosphere.

“We were so thrilled with the integration of all the elements because sometimes you can be too creative and then it looks fragmented. [Tom and Leighann] did a great job of making sure that everything had some synergy to it,” Mike says.

Industrial features stand out upon

The Markalunases equipped the kitchen for double duty dining. Guests enjoy cooking conversations from the island and dinner party chatter from the adjacent dining table set underneath oversize pendants.

HOPE

• 22 Private Acres Surrounded by Woodlands & Wildlife

• 10 Minutes to Downtown Savannah

• 5 Bedrooms/4Bathrooms

• Three Stall Horse Shed & Half Acre Paddock

• Gated Entry with Winding Driveway

entering the home, from the custom steel and glass front door to the open wood and steel stairway. Clean architectural lines are balanced by a rich layering of inviting materials in the front rooms, including warm gray concrete walls, bespoke textiles and patterned wallpapers.

A testimony to the ingenuity of the Markalunases’ thoughtfully considered design process, extra space under the stairs was transformed into an endearing nook with the addition of personal touches, like meaningful family photographs and Mike’s refurbished record player. It’s now a destination in the home, perfectly suited for reading, listening to vinyl and sitting without distraction. “It’s a place of refreshment and refuge for me,” Mike says.

Tom agrees, emphasizing the way the stair nook illustrates the team’s collaboration. “That was the space that encapsulated how the process worked because everybody on the team brought something to that space. The house exceeded the sum of its parts; it wasn’t just one person’s vision. It represents the relationship between all of us,” he says.

Full of thoughtful gathering spaces and accessorized with many of the Pereyos’ personal items, the rest of the home makes room for hospitality and invites guests to gather. A wide open kitchen hosts both dining and bar seating beneath statement lighting pieces, while the living room furnishings cozy guests around the ﬁreplace.

When it came to maximizing the marshland view, Tom and Leighann prioritized

A stylish wet bar off the kitchen makes serving dinner party cocktails and poolside beverages a breeze.

transparency through their expansive use of glass and windows. The unique ﬂoor plan solved the problem of privacy; Tom designed the house to wrap around the courtyard, where landscape architect Witmer Jones Keefer brought in natural elements to provide additional screening.

In the courtyard, the pool deck offers an oasis rivaling that of luxury hotels, complete with a fire pit and screened porch. It is exactly what the Pereyos first envisioned for their family vacation home. “Away from our upstate routes, this is a place where we can come and really find some rest and silence and solitude,” Mike says.

In addition to a beautiful family retreat on the water, the Pereyos and the Markalunases walked away from the project with a lasting friendship. “Their creative energy, their openness to ideas and their trust in our direction turned inspiration into collaboration and ultimately into a wonderful design experience,” Tom says.

Paul and Deb Fagan

DETAILS

Homeowners: Mike and Melissa Pereyo

Neighborhood: Palmetto Bluff

Year built: 2023

Bedrooms and bathrooms: 5 bedrooms; 5 full and 2 half bathrooms

Square footage: 4,571

Architect: Markalunas Architecture Group, LLC

Interior designer: Leighann Markalunas Design, LLC

Builder/contractor: Resort Custom Homes, LLC

Landscape design: Witmer Jones Keefer

Landscape installation: The Kayan Group

Cabinets: Carolina Custom Cabinetry

Countertops: Stoneworks

Appliances: Livingood’s Appliances & Bedding

Plumbing: Ferguson

Bathroom tile: Savannah Surfaces

Paint: Benjamin Moore

HOMES

Wood ﬂooring and wood stair treads: The HeartPine Company

Pool: Year Round Pool Co.

Exterior concrete pavers: Fire Rock (Savannah Surfaces)

Wood accent cladding at exterior and wood exterior ceilings: Thermory

Windows: Marvin (Coastal Sash & Door)

Front door and additional steel interior door: Clark Hall

Doors (Grayco)

Custom interior doors: The Heirloom Companies

Steel stair and railing: The Heirloom Companies

Custom steel shelving: The Heirloom Companies

Reclaimed wood beams and accent walls: The HeartPine Company

Concrete surrounds, counters and hearth/mantels: Trueform Concrete

Exterior decorative lighting: Bevolo

Interior lighting: Restoration Hardware

Art: Four Hands; Arteriors; pieces from the Pereyos’ personal collection

BREAKING GROUND

A new Del Webb neighborhood for active adults is under construction in Heartwood, the master-planned development rising in Richmond Hill. A division of Pulte Homes, Del Webb is designed for people 55 and older. With prices expected to begin in the $400,000s, buyers can build a new, low-maintenance, single-family home in a community tailored to support residents’ overall health and wellbeing, with convenient access to a resortstyle boathouse, café, pools, pickleball and tennis courts. Once complete, Del Webb will include up to 700 homes designed around marshes, greenspace, nature trails and a dog park, occupying 310 of Heartwood’s total 7,000 acres — all within a short drive from Savannah.

Renderings courtesy DEL WEBB

Enjoy Savannah

Elegant and relevant. Authentic and fun.

That’s Savannah, and this is your magazine.

MAKING MOVES

Seabolt Real Estate recently named commercial real estate veteran Beth Vantosh as the ﬁrm’s new Commercial President. With decades of experience representing a range of clients including Eastern Wharf, Southbound Brewery and the City of Savannah, among others, as well as leased commercial properties for many local area favorites, including Brochu’s Family Tradition, Bull Street Taco, Black Orchid Tattoo, Hop Atomica, Mamie Ruth and Savannah Bee Company — just to name a few. In addition, the Vantosh Commercial Group will also join Seabolt Real Estate, strengthening the ﬁrm’s commitment to Savannah’s commercial real estate market.

Judge Realty is now leasing Baldwin Park Apartments (601 E. 39th St.). Located close to Victory Drive and local favorites like Hop Atomica and Green Truck Pub, the community includes 38 pet-friendly rental homes, including studios as well as one-bedroom and two-bedroom options with quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, wood ﬂoors and large windows – plus some balconies, terraces and doubleheight living spaces. Amenities include a Butterﬂy MX secure entry system, on-site parking options and more.

National leader in real estate for home sales exceeding $1 million, Liza DiMarco, has opened a new local oﬃce for Compass, the techdriven real estate platform. Founded in 2012 and based in New York City, Compass has become one of the largest residential real estate brokerages in the country by sales volume. DiMarco continues to specialize in the real estate needs of the Historic District of Savannah, Tybee Island, and surrounding areas.

Real People

Tripp Butler

Owner | Southbridge Greater Savannah Realty

”Serving all of Savannah”

2 Southbridge Blvd., Savannah, GA 31405

C: 912.856.8685 | O: 912.651.5400 southbridgesav.com

WHY I CHOSE RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

I love what I do! For most people, buying a home is their biggest investment, and buyers and sellers need a Realtor who is not only full-time but also replies to messages, returns calls quickly and services their clients throughout the home-buying/selling process. I was recognized by Rate My Agent as the No. 1 Realtor in Savannah and Pooler and No. 3 in Georgia. I love what I do and look forward to working with you.

WHY I LOVE WORKING IN SAVANNAH

I love the friendly people whom I meet daily, the gorgeous homes and architecture throughout the city of Savannah and the opportunity to help clients and friends buy or sell their homes. It never gets old!

OUR SPECIALTY

Southbridge Greater Savannah Realty specializes in residential real estate. We list and sell homes around the greater Savannah areas including Skidaway Island, Dutch Island, Wilmington Island, Tybee Island, Downtown, Southside, Southbridge, Pooler, Richmond Hill and Effingham County.

FAVORITE QUOTES

“Successful people are not gifted; they just work hard then succeed on purpose.”

– G.K. Nielsen

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

– Jeremiah 29:11

I’VE

LEARNED FROM EXPERIENCE

Real estate is a business where you need an experienced real estate agent not only to help price your home, but also to walk with you throughout the entire buying and selling process. Clients want an agent who is an excellent communicator, experienced and honest to make the home buying and/or selling process easy for them.

WHEN I AM NOT IN THE OFFICE

My wife, Stephanie, and I love spending time with our three grandchildren.

Brooke Powell

Realtor | Ashley Brooke Properties

329 Commercial Drive, Ste. 100 Savannah, GA 31406

O: 912.272.7575

ashleybrookeproperties.com

MY SPECIALTY

I provide a luxury real estate experience to clients of all price points. Whether someone is looking for a historic mansion, a waterfront property or a cozy family home, I have the expertise to guide them through the process. My commitment to delivering top-notch service and my in-depth knowledge of the local market ensure that clients receive personalized, tailored solutions for their unique needs.

WHY I LOVE WORKING IN SAVANNAH

Savannah is not just where I grew up, it’s where my roots are. I’m passionate about this city because I’m raising my own family here and continuing the tradition. My goal is to help make Savannah the best it can be and to share its beauty with others.

LOOKING TO SELL?

always remind my clients that there s a di erence between living in a home and preparing it to sell. While it might feel a little dull to depersonalize your space, it makes a big impact in photos and online. For instance, we often ask clients to take down their family photos prior to listing. It’s not about disliking your family photos — it’s about removing distractions so potential buyers can focus on the beauty and features of your home.

MY CLIENTS LOVE

I am honest about what needs to be done to reach our shared goals.

MY SERVICES

Home staging, premium marketing and access to a vast network of agents and database of clients.

. THE IMPORTANCE OF STAGING

Staging is paramount when selling a home because it transforms a property into an attractive and inviting space, allowing potential buyers to envision themselves living there. By tailoring the staging service to each property’s unique characteristics and target market, we maximize its appeal, ultimately leading to quicker sales and potentially higher selling prices.

I’VE LEARNED FROM EXPERIENCE

You want to invest in landscaping.

Keller Williams Coastal Area Partners

329 Commercial Drive, Suite 100 Savannah, GA 31406

912.356.5001

WHAT SETS US APART

We do more listening that talking – at least initially! Asking you questions helps us guide you on your path toward achieving your goals.

OUR GREATEST JOY

We love helping clients through thick and thin to get the best, most positive results for their transaction – whether that’s a purchase or a sale.

OUR CLIENTS LOVE

Our listening ears, positive guidance, sincere professionalism and great communication!

OUR MISSION

o o er superior ser ice in a constantly changing en ironment and mar etplace. Real estate’s ever-changing landscape requires “heels on the ground,” ongoing education and the ability to help our clients react quickly.

Ruthie Lynah

Whitlow

Broker Associate | Certiﬁed Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty

300 Bull St., Suite 101, Savannah, GA 31401

912.441.4555

ruthielynahwhitlow.com

MY PHILOSOPHY

ut the client s needs rst. Communication is ey throughout the process whether m guiding a seller on how to present their home in the best light or assisting rst time buyers who need e tra support. or seasoned buyers it s all about deli ering the acts they need to ma e in ormed decisions. bo e all belie e in en oying the ourney with my clients and ma ing it a seamless e perience or them.

TO BUY AND SELL LIKE A PRO

ou need a combination o mar et nowledge strategic planning and clear communication. nderstanding the local mar et trends and property alues is crucial or ma ing in ormed decisions. well thought out strategy or pricing staging and mar eting your home will ma imi e its appeal and alue. or ing with a trusted ad isor who communicates e ecti ely and eeps you in ormed throughout the process can ma e all the di erence.

From left: Christine King (306.969.2782), Sharon Darley (912.308.3707), Linda King (912.596.3907), Jane Beare (912.507.5797), Aurelia Moss (912.661.2069) and Joan Johnson (404.424.2142)

Eileen Galves

Realtor | The Landings Company

1 Landings Way N. | Savannah, GA 31411

912.598.3227 | egalves@thelandings.com

MY GREATEST JOY

The connections I’ve made, both personally and professionally. As a wife, friend, dog mom, avid golfer, tennis and pickleball player and Realtor, my journey has been one of embracing the people and experiences that make life truly meaningful.

MY BLESSINGS

Living amidst the beauty of Savannah and within the warm embrace of my community at The Landings, I am reminded daily of how fortunate I am. It’s a privilege to work and play in this incredible place, and I count my blessings each day for the opportunity.

MY PHILOSOPHY

Ultimately, I believe that life is all about the people we meet, the stories we share, and the homes we create. My business philosophy is simple: turn clients into riends. Real estate isn t ust about transactions it s about nding the per ect home that suits your unique lifestyle. When you entrust me with your real estate needs, you’re getting more than an agent – you’re gaining a partner dedicated to ensuring your property reaches its full potential.

Maari Bennett

Realtor | Realty One Group Inclusion

7025 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite A, Savannah, GA 31406

C: 253.363.5754 | O: 912.298.7200 maari.searchhomesinsavannah.com

WHAT SETS ME APART

hat distinguishes my ser ice as a Realtor is my affiliation with Homes or Heroes program a partnership that allows me to e tend signi cant nancial bene ts to those who ser e our communities. n a erage this initiati e pro ides a potential sa ings o or heroes purchasing or selling a home and up to or those engaged in both transactions. he program s inclusi ity is one o its greatest strengths encompassing not only teachers healthcare pro essionals re ghters E law en orcement and military personnel but also their indispensable support sta including administrati e assistants parapro essionals and custodians. t is a pri ilege to gi e bac to those who tirelessly ser e and protect our society.

HOW I GIVE BACK

olunteering with Coastal et Rescue eeps me in ol ed in the community. C R s donations are at an all time low so try to include adoptable pets whene er ad ertise. oday m eaturing eel. eel was abandoned outside o rayson tadium on ictory ri e with his bed and toys. lease consider adopting ostering or donating. earn more at coastalpetrescue.org.

Maari Bennett, right, with Coastal Pet Rescue’s Lisa Scarbrough and Peel

BSAPPE Group at Corcoran Austin Hill Realty

251 Bull St., Savannah, GA 31401

478.319.7254 bsappegroup.com

THRIVING UNDER PRESSURE

We thrive under pressure and excel at solving tough problems. With us in your corner, you can count on reliable support no matter the situation.

WHEN WE AREN’T IN THE OFFICE

ou ll nd us in the heart o the action with the a annah dult Recreation Club. hether it s playing olleyball ic ball or so tball you can nd us on the eld almost e ery wee end. e don t ust play we sponsor each season and sport with championship trophies bringing e citement to e ery game the eld we lo e soa ing up e ery moment with riends and amily creating un orgettable memories and staying in ol ed in the community we care about.

WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU

e are dedicated to empowering our clients with nowledge. hrough education guidance and a deep understanding o the mar et we e uip our clients to ma e con dent in ormed decisions that shape their utures. Empowerment through nowledge is at the core o what we do.

The Rowan Stallings Group

Melissa Hall Rowan and Ridley Stallings

Corcoran Austin Hill Realty

251 Bull St. | Savannah, GA 31401

M: 706.566.5235 | O: 912.354.2100 rowanstallingsgroup.com

WHAT SETS US APART

We are Savannah’s premier real estate duo, consistently ranked among the city’s top producers. Year after year, our unmatched expertise and dedication have set us apart in the competitive Savannah market. Known for our deep local knowledge and exceptional client care, we have achieved remarkable milestones, including the highest residential sale not only in downtown but also across Chatham County. Our success is a testament to our strategic approach, market insight and unwavering commitment to our clients. Whether navigating a historic home purchase or securing a top-dollar sale, our unparalleled service ensures the best outcomes in Savannah’s majestic cityscape. For a private presentation, contact The Rowan Stallings Group.

Shay Healy, Brent Sappe and Brandi Lane

SAVANNAH MARKET PLACE

1 Raintree Lane

Located in The Landings, this fully renovated 4 bed, 2.5 bath home, designed by a renowned Palm Beach decorator, epitomizes luxury. Enjoy the expansive deck, spa, and shade garden. The home features an oversized 4-car garage and a 1,200-sf guest house. he great room, with a large replace, seamlessl connects to the open floor plan. The home boasts stunning pine blonde hardwood flooring throughout and a gourmet kitchen designed by a Palm Beach chef.

Colleen Hanson Jackson

C: 561.573.7220

O: 912.354.2100

43 Mulberry Blu Drive

Escape to 43 Mulberry Bluff, a stunning one-acre oasis along Grimball Creek. This timeless, custom-built home offers breathtaking views and access to the Skidaway River and Intracoastal Waterway. Enjoy serene sunsets from the pool and hot tub. The home’s main level features heart pine flooring, a spacious kitchen, dining room, living and family rooms, and an expansive primary suite. Build your own private dock, or enjoy the Dutch Island Community Dock and other amenities.

Offered at $1,892,500

Agent Betsy Kingston Myers & Helen Williams Johnson

o. 912.234.3323

426 Habersham St.

C.1896 Victorian home overlooking hit eld uare. aka ouse of an olors. his reno ated, licensed, nonowner-occupied features bedrooms and .5 baths with a wrap-around front porch. ouse f an olors.net. ffered at 1, 99,000.

Liza DiMarco

Compass

li a.dimarco compass.com 805.450. 95 li adimarco.com ouseof an olors.net

c. 912.660.6890

c. 912.658.4638

66 White Oak Blu

Beautiful Southern 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home with front porch, very private lot on a lagoon waiting for you to call this home. The kitchen has tons of cabinet space, stainless steel appliances with gas cooktop, and a huge island area overlooking the family room that has built-ins and a gas replace. he owner s suite is on the main floor and it offers a gorgeous soaking tub, walk-in shower, double vanities, and large walk-in closet. Three more bedrooms are upstairs with an additional bonus room area. The backyard offers a screened in porch with a paver patio area and fenced in backyard.

Offered at $788,900.

Tripp Butler

C: 912.856.8685

O: 912.651.5400

228 East Oglethorpe Avenue

Impeccably renovated c. 1855 5+

bedroom home with spectacular interiors, pri ate ele ator, fle space and 2-bedroom garden-level apartment in a prime location in Savannah’s National Historic Landmark District. Enjoy period details, a stunning chef’s kitchen, an e uisite owner s suite, gated off-street parking and more. Featured in The Wall Street Journal, this iconic home is located within walking distance of Savannah’s best dining, shopping and activities.

Offered for $3,950,000

Staci Donegan

C: 912.247.2052

O: 912.233.6609

staci@stacidonegan.com

18 Dream Maker Circle

Welcome to your dream home! Experience unparalleled luxury in this stunning 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom property nestled in Moon River Landing. Boasting a modern cottage aesthetic, the residence includes an open floor plan complete with a chef’s eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, and expansive family room. Gorgeous hardwood floors throughout, with 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths on the main floor. Extravagant marble primary bath includes marble throughout, tremendous walk-in shower, freestanding clawfoot tub and custom closets. Upstairs are 3 additional bedrooms and 2 baths.

Randy Parsons

o. 912-598-0500

c. 912-484-1000

RParsons@TheLandings.com

SAVANNAH MARKET PLACE

222 E Waldburg Street Unit#B

Experience contemporary living in Savannah’s stunning Victorian District, only two blocks from the renowned Forsyth Park! This spacious 3 bed, 3 bath two-story condo features gorgeous natural limestone countertops, stainless steel appliances, travertine tile, and hardwood floors throughout. he high ceilings and large windows bathe the freshly painted walls in natural light. n the rst le el, ou ll nd an ensuite, second bedroom, and second full bathroom, while upstairs is reser ed for the primar suite. Offered at $799,000

Agent Ruthie Lynah Whitlow o. 912.2 4. 2 c. 912.441.4555

57 Islander’s Retreat

Sunset, marsh and Intracoastal Waterway views. Graceful lines of southern Georgian architecture and lush landscaping. Extensive crown molding, wainscoting, magni cent staircase, floor to ceiling windows, re nished hardwood floors and dual level porches. Tastefully renovated in a timeless contemporary fashion. Oversized kitchen with new professional ovens, microwave and Subzero refrigerator. Generously sized bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. arsh iew of ce. hole house generator, ele ator, a water puri cation system, new roof, new HVAC systems. Offered at $1,899,000

Ginna Carroll and Jill Brooks o. 912-598-3274 o. 912-598-0500

5528 Silk Hope Road | Savannah, Ga.

Beyond the iron gates lies Silk Hope Estate, a 22-acre property that feels like a storybook brought to life.

5BR/4BA estate with formal living & dining rooms & bright, airy kitchen with a gas range, walk-in pantry & butler’s pantry. Cozy family room with wood-burning replace brick hearth. main-le el master retreat plus an optional main-level guest suite or home of ce. lentiful outdoor living spaces, three-stall horse shed half-acre paddock. eaceful seclusion just 10 minutes from downtown Savannah, offering the perfect blend of rural serenity & urban convenience.

Brooke Powell c. 912 272 7575 o. 912 356 5001

GRACIE BYRD JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

NEIGHBORLY ADVICE

Flood Warning

Written by BRIENNE WALSH

WHEN WE BOUGHT OUR HOUSE in Ardsley Park in May of 2020, we did so sight unseen. My husband, a Savannah native, and I were desperate. At the time, our children were 18 months and 3 years old. We were living and working in a 700-squarefoot apartment in Brooklyn. It was the early days of the COVID lockdown, and even the playgrounds were cordoned oﬀ with police tape.

It only took about two months to realize that the house in Ardsley was beautiful, but also flawed. As the humidity of summer set in, the wood floors in the living room began to warp. Not slightly. By August, the boards looked like a pile of building blocks dumped on the floor by our toddlers. We covered the worst spots with a rug and waited until we had enough money to fix the problem.

Two years later, we discovered the culprit: standing water in the crawl space. It took a small fortune and two years off my husband’s life to rebuild the floor and seal the crawl space. “If we don’t have a floor in our living room by Christmas, I’m leaving,” I told my husband at one point. Miraculously, we ended 2022 with a new floor, a water pump and hope for peace on earth.

It didn’t last long.

This past summer, it flooded more than usual. The rain arrived at the end of brutally hot days. The sky dropped inches of water within mere minutes, causing waist-high floods on Habersham Street right outside of our house. Most drivers knew to stay off the roads. Those that didn’t, however, caused the small river forming in the street to push up onto our yard and under our house. In turn, they were treated to the sight of my husband, a good Southern boy, chasing them down using colorful language he obviously learned while living in New York with me.

Soon after he started screaming, the ﬂood alarm installed under the house would start to wail. Around then, I’d usually join my husband chasing down vehicles. “Mom, you’re embarrassing us,” my daughter, now 8, ﬁnally told me.

On the day of the worst flood, we stood at the window just waiting for an opportunity to go berserk. I noticed that three of my male neighbors had gathered on the corner wearing bathing suits, with boogie boards in hand. Checking first for traffic, they dove into the flood. One got on his back and paddled around for a few minutes. “Mom, can we go swimming, too?” my son, now 5, asked me. “Um, no,” I told him, citing, without evidence, the dangers of

diseases in the water.

When the water reached the third of six steps leading up to our house, I went outside in my rain boots to inspect the storm drains. “I’m afraid our living room is going to flood,” I said offhandedly to the three guys swimming. I didn’t want to disturb their fun. They disappeared briefly and came back carrying bags of sand. Their partners and friends followed, carrying rakes and brooms. They waded into the water and began clearing debris from the curbs. “We won’t let your house flood,” they told me.

By the time the rain started to dwindle, the ﬂood waters were receding. I hugged my neighbors. They were the perfect reminder of why Savannah is such a great place to live, even with the heat and the ﬂooding and the pickup trucks headed for dinner in the middle of Biblical downpours. The people here are kind and know how to have a good time, any water-borne diseases be damned.

The next time it ﬂoods, rather than screaming at cars, I might very well put on my bathing suit and join my neighbors.