Real Estate News
T R I A N G L E
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home design dedicated to showcasing the triangle’s distinctive homes
“Your home should be your favorite place to relax and experience life— custom pools and spas add to that experience.”
– Mollie Owen, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty
Posh pools
Float into summer in a new custom swimming pool - story on page 4
real estate news What’s new p2
design instyle Outdoor updates P8
real estate trends Doing things differently p15
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straight talk
Southern showcase p15 1R
|real estate news
what’s new? compiled by Whitney Berongi
JENNIFER FORD BERRY ANNOUNCES CREATED ORDER CONFERENCE IN NORTH CAROLINA Created Order, a conference described as Marie-Kondo-meets-Rachel-Hollis for women and teens, will take place June 28 and 29 in Charlotte, N.C.. The conference was started to teach attendees how to get their life organized, eliminate clutter and live with more intention. Attendees will have the chance to connect and network with other like-minded individuals. A private, online community will launch after the conference to help attendees put into action the steps they learn and give them the accountability needed to succeed. Keynote speaker Jennifer Ford Berry is an organizational expert, bestselling author of the book series “Organize Now!,” host of The 29 Minute Mom podcast and national speaker. Berry was the regular organizing expert on the TV show “Winging It, Buffalo Style” and has been a guest on numerous television and radio shows. Berry has been featured in national magazines and newspapers including Real Simple, Women’s Day and Brides Magazine. Tickets start at $90 for general admission, with discounted tickets available for teens. For more information or to register and purchase tickets, visit jenniferfordberry.com.
Summer Sales Event Email real estate news to TriangleHomeDesign@newsobserver.com. T R I A N G L E
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Christina Darnell
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Melissa Kennelly
Creative Strategy Buck Brice
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Section published by The News & Observer • 421 Fayetteville St. Suite 104 Raleigh, NC 27601. Editorial material in this section is the responsibility of the Observer Content Studio, 704-358-5185. It did not involve the news staff of The Observer.
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|custom swimming pools
DID YOU KNOW? An average-sized public swimming pool contains up to 75 liters of urine, which depletes the chlorine concentration in the pool making it less effective at killing germs. Clean up summer fun with a custom pool of your own
by Julie Cooper
EAT
Poole’s Diner Grab a bite to eat at this circa-1945 diner in downtown Raleigh while discussing pool options over seasonal comfort food, cocktails and desserts in a retro-chic setting. ac-restaurants.com
PLAY
Optimist Pool Swim some laps year round at this public Olympic-sized pool in Raleigh that also boasts a baby pool and diving boards. raleighnc.gov
EXPLORE
Jack Smith Park Make a splash at this recreation venue that sits on the 50-acre tract formerly known as the Bartley family farm for a fun day in the sun, playing in the splash pad, playground and dog park. townofcary.org
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ummer isn’t even here yet, and the Triangle is already starting to sizzle. With the mercury levels rising, many are recognizing the benefits of owning a custom pool. From entertainment to relaxation and resort-style benefits, a custom swimming pool has the ability to transform a boring backyard into an “oh-wow” oasis in an instant. “The idea of a ‘stay-cation’ takes on a whole new meaning with some of the resort-like pools we are seeing in the backyards of today’s homes,” says Mollie Owen with Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty. “Your home should be your favorite place to relax and experience life—custom pools and spas add to that experience. To quote Sotheby’s International Realty, these special features give ‘the feeling you’ve left the ordinary world and arrived somewhere exceptional.’” That “exceptional place” means something different to everyone. But, regardless of the definition, many homebuyers agree that water is the answer. “Some homeowners will install a private pool to get the kids to spend more time at home or to provide a fun place to exercise and enjoy the outdoors,” says Owen. “With the summer heat in North Carolina, a pool also provides a great space for outdoor entertaining.
People tend to be drawn to water. It has a calming effect and allows one to feel a sense of relaxation.” When it comes to pool designs, Owen says the sky’s the limit. “Saltwater pools seem to be the current trend right now in The Triangle,” she says. “We are also seeing added ‘resort-style’ features such as waterfalls, fountains, spas and swim-up bars becoming increasingly popular. One of our listings even has a swimin/swim-out underwater tunnel from the home gym to the pool!” And folks aren’t stopping there— swimming pools tend to be the gateway to a full-blown backyard escape. “In addition to pools, many homeowners are opting for additional outdoor living amenities such as fire pits and fireplaces, elaborate outdoor kitchens, gazebos and even the occasional putting green or tennis court,” says Owen. “These additions allow the homeowner all the amenities of a country club in their own backyard. Well-planned landscaping and hardscapes—like patios or retaining walls—add another level of beauty to many of these projects.” “It used to be the buyer would purchase in a neighborhood that has a country club or neighborhood pool,” chimes Lenda Goulding with LG Real Estate of Coldwell Banker Howard Perry & Walston. “Now,
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homeowners like having their own pool. It’s a big change from what we used to see. In the past, if a home had a built-in pool, it would eliminate some buyers. Now, they find it’s a great draw for their children and friends.” Viewing the backyard as an extension of their home, Goulding says that if a listing doesn’t have a pool, buyers won’t consider it unless there is at least room to install one. “This has become more prevalent in the last five years or so,” she says. “So many of my buyers are specifically looking for a new home that also accommodates a pool. And now, because there is still an under supply of homes with pools, buyers are looking at homes that not only fit their needs for indoor living, but also have the yard to accommodate what they want to build for pools and outdoor living.” With swimming pools being “on trend” this summer, Owen says it’s important to consider a few things before diving in. “Before installing a pool, homeowners should seek the advice of a pool professional to determine the appropriate style for their budget and space,” she says. “It’s also important to make sure you are not disturbing septic systems or any other underground installations.”
custom swimming pools| 12324 Birchfalls Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27614 Price: $3,850,000 MLS: 1957549 Listing Agent: Mollie Owen, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty, 919-602-2713, mollie.owen@hodgekittrellsir.com On nearly four acres, this custom estate boasts more than 16,000 square feet with a 30-foot ceiling in the foyer with a koi pond, mahogany panels in the study with a full bar, and fitness room. Chef’s kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, dual ovens, beverage drawer, granite counters, custom cabinetry and butler’s pantry. Master with sitting room, patio views, spa-like bath and two walk-in closets. Crestron whole-house monitors. Over 300 species of trees and shrubs. Fenced backyard with waterfalls, fountains and swimming pool with private hot tub. Outdoor kitchen, two bathrooms and private verandas.
107 Trellingwood Drive, Morrisville, NC 27560 Price: $1,995,000 MLS: 2252310 Listing Agent: Lenda Goulding, Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston, 919630-0313, lenda.goulding@hpw.com Exquisite Preston estate with impressive view of Highlands No.9. Distinctive architectural craftsmanship. Expansive floor plan spanning over 6,600 square feet. Chef’s kitchen with integrated SubZero refrigerator, Wolf gas stove, warming drawer, island, Advantium built-ins. Keeping room with two-sided stone fireplace and built-ins. First-floor master. Rec room, bonus with bar and media room on second floor. Infinity pool and spa, terrace, outdoor builtin grill, patio and fenced back lawn.
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|custom swimming pools 11204 Trescott Court, Raleigh, NC 27614 Price: $1,295,000 MLS: 2241385 Listing Agent: Mollie Owen, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty, 919-6022713, mollie.owen@hodgekittrellsir.com Tree-lined circular driveway leads to this captivating estate tucked away on a private cul-de-sac on almost two acres. First-floor guest suite, chef’s kitchen, theater, fitness room and wine cellar. Surrounded by established wooded areas and immaculate landscaping, the backyard is a virtual oasis with a heated, saltwater pool, spa and covered veranda. Four-car garage.
60 China Doll Court, Durham, NC 27713 Price: $1,875,000 MLS: 2241734 Listing Agent: Mollie Owen, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty, 919-602-2713, mollie.owen@hodgekittrellsir.com All-brick estate in the Hills of Rosemont. Two-story foyer with winding staircase leads to formal dining, study and family rooms. Updated kitchen with granite counters, stainless appliances, center island with vegetable sink and a breakfast room. First-floor master. Second-floor rec room with media area and wet bar. Third-floor bonus room with full bath and storage space. Outdoor living with large slate patio with pool, hot tub and covered stone fireplace. Located on 6.5-acre lot with fenced backyard, four-car garage and circular drive.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION . THE NEWS & OBSERVER . SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019
custom swimming pools| 1400 Alpine Creek Drive, Raleigh, NC 27614 Price: $5,900,000 MLS: 2237453 Listing Agent: Mollie Owen, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty, 919-602-2713, mollie.owen@hodgekittrellsir.com Situated in one of North Raleigh’s most prestigious gated communities, this 18,000-plus-square-foot home is on more than 15 acres. Grand lodge-style appearance. Great room with 46-foot cupola and double staircases. Master spans length of second-floor western wing with sitting room, office, screen room and terrace. Lower level with wine cellar, full bar and built-in humidor. Movie theater. In-home gym with swim-in/swim-out pool, sauna and steam room. Over 100 indoor and outdoor speakers. Crestron whole-home automation system. Saltwater pool, patio, waterfall, swim-up bar, spa and covered terrace. Private tennis court.
222 Tennwood Court, Durham, NC 27712 Price: $1,575,000 MLS: 2256919 Listing Agent: Jack Arnold, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty, 919-2107695, jack.arnold@hodgekittrellsir.com Three of the area’s best architectural minds have woven a magnificent fabric throughout the Beriwall House, intricately balancing the interplay of mass and light to create one of the Triangle’s largest and most exciting modernist homes. The functional versatility, exquisite materials and finishes of the interior combine with rare specimen plantings and extensive landscaping to establish a holistic and welcoming environment that will embrace any lifestyle.
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gloster.com
|design instyle
Outdoor updates Slats, weaves and rope are remaking this season’s innovative outdoor styles by Vicki Payne
I
hope I’ve caught you before you’ve purchased your new outdoor lounge furniture. If not, there are still some great updates and accents you can add to your current décor. Today’s outdoor styles are more exciting than you can
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imagine. For years, most of us weren’t motivated to purchase new because it all looked pretty much the same as what we already had. Our only inspiration, necessity. First, let’s start with shapes. What’s new are outdoor lounge
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION . THE NEWS & OBSERVER . SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019
gloster.com
beds and chaises—and not for just the pool. Traditional sofas are being replaced with oversized chaises that can double as conversational seating groups or the perfect place to catch a lazy nap. Gloster is one of today’s leading manufacturers of inspiring pieces for outdoor living. This season’s collection continues its long legacy of quality that started in West Africa in 1960. Its Grand Weave Collection features modular pieces that can be arranged to create a sectional or separated to form a pair of day beds. This collection also includes one of the second trends—open weave. Designers are leaving the boxy woven styles to the big box stores. What you find today in designer boutiques are slimmed-down profiles featuring new materials and open spaces. If you want to be cradled and pampered, Gloster also has its Cradle Collection—perfect for one but can comfortably accommodate two. It is available in black or white and can be customized with side and roof screens.
saturday, june 8 . 5:30 pm
Rock. Roll. And a little SOUL.
Join us at the Lakeside Pavilion, where the music is free, but it's B.Y.O.C. (Bring Your Own Chair).
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Newland is the largest private developer of mixed-use communities in the United States. With our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. newlandco.com | nashcommunities.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. 2019 © Wendell Falls. All Rights Reserved. Wendell Falls is a trademark of NASH Wendell Falls, LLC, and may not be copied, imitated or used, in whole or in part, without prior written permission.
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Select Fr om Bradington Young, H ancock & Mo or e, Motioncraft, and L eather craft 5640 Capital Boulevard, Raleigh, NC 27616 • 919-954-0025 Sunday Closed • Monday-Friday 10:00 to 6:00 • Saturday 10:00 to 5:00
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tidelli.com
SUMMER PIANO SALE
Both the Cradle and Grand Weave collections were designed by Henrik Pedersen. Based in Aarhus, Pedersen runs the Danish design studio 365° and is known for elegant styles made with exquisite materials. The Vista Collection, designed by Carsten Astheimer, features an open aluminium flat strap design with cushioned seating. Styles in this collection include sectional pieces, individual seating, ottomans and tables. This open slat format is one that will continue to show up season after season. Tidelli, another creative design/
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manufacturer, originated in Bahia. Its new assemblage of outdoor pieces features bright colors, open weaves and an abundance of nautical rope. The Mesh collection offers a great alternative to dining and bar stools. Available in countless colors, it is easy to incorporate just a few pieces or furnish your entire patio. Colorful, strappy and open weave are the best words to describe Tidelli’s Painho collection. Inspired by tropical breezes, the pieces are designed for fun. Fan chairs, dining and occasional chairs as well as tables and ottomans round out this entertaining
collection. Made with aluminium frames, nautical rope and teak, it is durable and cool. It’s not too late to update your existing patio collection. Any one of these manufacturers’ groups include great side pieces. Consider replacing your existing coffee table with one of the Painho Collection’s brightly colored stool tables. Add coordinating colored throw pillows to your present chairs and sofa. Bright colorful hanging pots or floor containers of flowers can help complete the look. If you’re in the market for any of these great new collections, check out their web sites to locate a dealer or designer in your area. It’s never too late to update or too early to plan next season’s décor.
gloster.com
Vicki Payne Donatelli is an interior designer, project coordinator and popular speaker for renovation and new construction projects. She is the host of the national PBS series “For Your Home.” Visit her blog at ForYourHome.com.
Garner’s Premier 55+ Active Adult Community (Just ask our 61 purchasers!)
The Lodge Now Open!
Ranch-Style Plans 1,712-2,678 SF The Most Included Features You’ll Find Anywhere!
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PRICED FROM THE UPPER $200s SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION . THE NEWS & OBSERVER . SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019
Visit The Tapestry: 373 Old Drug Store Rd. Garner, NC 27529
Directions: I-40 to exit 312, west to Old Drug Store Road then left. Monday-Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 12pm - 5pm *Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
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|real estate trends
Doing things differently Market trends in today’s 55-plus crowd by Julie Cooper
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aby boomers are redefining the aging process, staying healthier and more independent than ever into their golden years. When it comes to downsizing, it’s no surprise then that this generation is doing things a bit differently than their predecessors—and forging a new frontier in the active-adult real estate market while they’re at it. WANTS & NEEDS “Think The Rolling Stones, Queen, Aerosmith—that’s this generation,” says Nanette Overly with Epcon Communities. “They grew up with Ed Sullivan, Wayne Newton and Katharine
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Hepburn—the former generation that used to be purchasing these homes. Today’s 55-plus market has a different mindset of what being 55 or even 65 means.” The active adult crowd today is just that—active. “Not only are they active, but they also want a community that is active, that supports their active lifestyle,” says Overly. “But that means something different than it did to the generation ahead of them. They don’t need someone to facilitate or organize their active lifestyle, just a place that supports it. They want to have places to go walking and biking, to play pickleball or be out with their
JE Evans Photography and Colin McGuire Photographs
dog, out with the grandchildren or out with friends, but they don’t want a scheduled time to have to do it. We give them that at Epcon. We continually evolve to meet their wants and needs.” This group is also all about preparing for the future, but not necessarily anticipating it, says Overly. “In many cases, they desire singlelevel living,” she says. “That doesn’t mean they won’t purchase something that has an upstairs, or an opportunity for an upstairs. But they want everything they need on the first floor, and they want an open-floor plan to prepare for mobility issues that may arise down the road.” CHALLENGES Many are still working, some are caring for elderly parents, they’re traveling to spend time with grandchildren or hosting them at their homes, and they’re very time poor. “They’re busy. Time is a challenge they’re faced with,” says Overly. “They’re looking for a way to get certain things off their calendar. They can’t move their parents off their calendar, they can’t move their kids off their calendar, but they can move some of their house responsibilities off to make time for their social lives and their
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TOUR RIVER BLUFFS | Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm | Sun 1pm - 5pm PRICING | Homes from the Low $300’s - $1.5M PHONE | 910.623.5015 EMAIL | SalesTeam@RiverBluffsLiving.com MAP US | 1100 Chair Rd. Castle Hayne, NC 28429 Equal Housing Opportunity. This is not intended to be an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy real estate in River Bluffs to residents of any state or jurisdiction where prior registration is required or where prohibited by law, unless registered or exempt from registration. The features, amenities and prices described and depicted herein are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. Renderings and artists’ interpretations are for illustrative purposes only and no guarantee is made that the features, amenities and facilities described herein will be provided, or if provided, will be of the same, type,size or nature as depicted or described. Access to and rights to use recreational facilities within the development may be subject to payment of use fees, membership requirements, availability and other limitations, rules and regulations. © River Bluffs 2019
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JE Evans Photography and Colin McGuire Photographs
Waterfront Lodge Home Open 1-4pm Sunday June 2
CHOCOWINITY, NC • 503 Long Point Road 3,200+/- sf 3BR 2.5BA lodge home built in 2008 on 1.27+/- ac wooded lot in Long Point Landing. The property is located on the water overlooking Yeats Creek into Blounts Creek and is a 1 hour drive to the ocean and 20 minutes east of Greenville, NC. Great home for biking, boating, fishing, kayaking, water skiing, and much more. Room for a pier or use the community boat ramp and dock at the end of the street. Nominal Opening Bid: $100,000
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friends.” According to Ryan Fitzgerald of Raleigh Realty, this segment of the market may also face challenges when it’s time to buy. “If they’re in retirement, they will likely have a bit more trouble qualifying for a mortgage since they are not currently working,” he says. “This can pose a challenge to some folks who have grown accustomed to a certain lifestyle and no longer have the same monthly income.” To lessen these challenges, Fitzgerald recommends putting at least 20 percent down, keeping a high credit score, having a large number of readily accessible assets and using social security and pension incomes, if retired. “If all else fails, you’ll find that there are still other options,” he says. “You’ll need to call around to different mortgage companies to learn about their specific programs for your situation. And, for those with
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large retirement funds, an assetbased mortgage or a security-backed line of credit may also be options to explore.” LIFESTYLE Above all else, lifestyle is one of the top determining factors when downsizing, and that’s where the Charlotte and Raleigh areas shine. “Affordability is huge in retirement, and the cost of living tends to be much lower here,” says Fitzgerald. “Plus, people love our area because it still has all four seasons with a much milder climate than what you’ll find up north in the winter and further south in the summer. Golf can be played year round. And even more, our cities are very vibrant and have tremendous employment opportunities—so their kids and grandkids may be here. This is why so many folks see our area as a great place to settle down and retire.”
straight talk|
Photo by Brie Williams
Southern showcase Visit the Charlotte area’s Southern Living Inspired Home in Fort Mill for a lesson in functional luxury by Allen Norwood
T
he kitchen island in the Southern Living Inspired Home is so massive that it captures and holds the eye, albeit gently. The marble on the island top and waterfall edge is honed to a soft finish, and there’s a restrained hint of taupe veining. “It’s a contemporary island in traditional style,” says builder Mary Ludemann of NewOld Homes. Call it subtly imposing—like the rest of the showhouse, which opens to the public today. Ludemann says the 4,200-square-foot house is “high end, but very livable.” In other words, it captures the contemporary but genteel look of Southern Living. Strolling through the home is like slipping into the pages of the magazine. The home is in The Bramble in Fort Mill, a Southern Living community. Prizewinning NewOld Homes is a Southern Living builder, and the lead interior designer, Vicky Serany, is founder of Southern Studio Interior Design in Cary, a Southern Living design firm. If you’re a long-time reader, you will appreciate how Ludemann, Serany and others interpreted the magazine’s signature style. The entire kitchen is dramatic because of its large scale. The steel vent hood over the stove is 8 feet long. “That took eight guys to get up there,” Ludemann says. The white backsplash tile is oversize arabesque. Pendant lanterns over the island are oversize, but the steel frames are open so the pendants don’t add heavy mass. The scale impresses but doesn’t overwhelm. “Everything is big, but it doesn’t appear too large,” Ludemann says.
The kitchen cabinets are putty colored, complementing the veining in the marble. Hardware is antique brass, a look repeated throughout the home. The scullery behind the kitchen features special spaces for set into base cabinets. Look for the whimsical cat cutout. There are two under-counter beverage refrigerators—one for adults and one for kids, Ludemann says. Floors in the scullery are bold black and white tile in a stylized fleur de lis pattern. It’s porcelain, not concrete, but captures the look of vintage encaustic. “It looks like the real deal, but there’s less maintenance,” Ludemann says. Serany says she and Ludemann were able to push the design boundaries in the home a bit because the home was built as a showhouse, not for a buyer with distinct tastes. Ludemann agrees. She says with a laugh, “Nobody has let me put a stone wall in a scullery before, so...” Yes, there’s a stone wall in the scullery. The great room and first-floor master suite are studies in layered neutrals, highlighted by small splashes of blues and greens. Serany says she built the color palette around the fabric she chose for window treatments in the great room. The dominant color in the fabric is a sort of southern garden green, paired with grays and tans. Small, plush sofas in the great room are the same summer green. Floors in the foyer, great room and kitchen are wide-plank white oak with just a hint of blond stain and a completely flat finish. It’s a soft look that adds to the tranquil feel of the space. (But it’s
a durable finish that even stands up to the Labrador retrievers in her own home, Ludemann says.) On the fireplace wall, more of Ludemann’s favorite stone rises to the peaked ceiling. From the great room, French doors open onto the covered veranda—not porch, because this is Southern Living— with an outdoor kitchen offering a grill, sink and refrigerator. Behind the grill is another wall of stone, and stone surrounds the inviting pool. In the master bedroom, the ceiling soars up to 18 feet. The headboard is upholstered in gray leather—and is flanked by two matching upholstered panels that are nearly as large. A study on the main floor is highlighted by cabinets painted a dusty blue—softer than, say, a clear French blue—finished with more antique brass hardware. Upstairs, the bonus room features wainscoting in a similar blue. Carpet is a color and pattern that captures the distinctive dappled look of a newborn fawn. The room accommodates a custom ping pong table that looks like an artisancrafted cutting board. In fact, in addition to the table, the home is filled with art and accessories from area craftspeople. “We like to give local artisans and tradespeople attention on a national level,” Ludemann says. “It takes lots of hands to build a house like this.” Two upstairs bedrooms were created by Windy O’Connor and Laura Park, both accomplished artists and designers from Charlotte. Other artwork throughout
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the showhouse is from Charlotte’s Shain Gallery. The exterior of the home is stone and traditional horizontal siding, with a steep roof. The clapboards are painted a deep, warm tan, and heavy, dark brackets support the front porch roof. The house is one of just seven nestled in The Bramble, a single cul-de-sac on the edge of Baxter. Three homes have been sold, according to Ludemann, and the showhouse is about to go on the market. Proceeds from the Southern Living Inspired Home will benefit two nonprofits, the Levine Cancer Institute in Rock Hill and The Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill. To get there once in Charlotte, take I-77 south to Exit 85 and turn right. Take an immediate left on Market Street, a left on Sutton Road, a right on Camber Woods Drive. The Bramble will be on your left. WANT TO GO? What: Southern Living Inspired Home. Where: 427 Bramble Way, Fort Mill. When: Open on weekends June 1-June 30. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays. Admission: Tickets are $16; available at the door, at select retailers and online at newoldsouthernliving.com. Check online for special events such as chef and designer days.
Allen Norwood: homeinfo@charter.net
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