HD D&
UNLOCKING POSSIBILITIES
CONNECTING
FEATURES
44
SKOGLUFT
Architect Bryan Mermans and designer Charlotte Lucas seamlessly blend Norwegian architecture and modern interiors in this stunning home.
56
The Little Things
The coupling of architectural details and elevated interior design create a dazzling backdrop in this old Cotswold home.
66 Artistic License
One homeowner’s art collection becomes the centerpiece to her home’s design by Mara Steinmetz.
Share the gardens with your loved ones by purchasing a gift membership or gifting a program this holiday season!
Wing Haven’s Lecture Series - Thursday mornings, January-February
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Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary. Photo © Betty Thomas Gardens that inspire
Elizabeth Lawrence House & Garden. Photo © Betty Thomas
Photo © Betty Thomas
An uninhabitable backyard structure is transformed into a sophisticated entertaining space.
Style
Katharine Hidell of Hidell Brooks Gallery gives us a peek into her extensive art collection. 27 Field Trip
Get more than you give with these three UK art-steeped accommodations.
Market
Art- andarchitectureinspired launches that bring interest to every space.
Rooms We Love
A strikingly serene hand-painted mural stuns in this owner’s bedroom.
he editorial team at HD&D pours much of our heart and soul into these pages; hours are spent flipping through images of beautiful interior design and hundreds of emails exchanged about the newest launches, collections, and events in our community.
It’s a labor of love that’s all validated with a tangible piece of art that we produce in the end. The images we gather, the words we write, the series of pages we lay out—we are simultaneously producing art and architecting a product, each the same and yet so different than the last. From our vantage point, it’s easy to see why art and the labor that goes into building something is so incredibly valuable. But it’s our job to create the space where our readers see it clearly, too.
With that, our annual Art & Architecture issue pays respect to and holds space for all the artisans out there practicing their craft—from hoteliers and interior designers to artists, architects, chefs, gallery owners, and, yes, even editors. Here’s to you—our dedication to you is deserved.
Blake Miller and Anne Marie Ashley Co-Editors-in-Chief
on the cover
This dining room by designer Charlotte Lucas boasts handpainted wallpaper by de Gournay, which doubles as a work of art in the space (page 44).
CHRIS EDWARDS
GEOFFREY JOHNSON
Snowfall Central Park Oil on Board 30x30 in
Untitled 146 Oil on Board 30x40 in
HD D&
HOME DESIGN & DECOR
Publisher
Michael Kooiman
Associate Publisher
Oonagh Murray
Co-Editors-in-Chief
Anne Marie Ashley Blake Miller
Associate Editor Karin Simoneau
Art
Lindsay Richards
Production
Shelley Kemper
Writers Maria Masters
Brandy Woods Snow
Photography
Michael Blevins
Megan Easterday
Chris Edwards
SALE featuring 80,000 sq ft of furniture, lighting and decorative accessories marked at 60-90% off retail. Visit website for full schedule. Local delivery available.
Starts Saturday, January 25th
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Barn Out Back
An uninhabitable backyard structure is transformed into a versatile hangout space.
Text by Karin Simoneau | Photography by Chris Edwards
Entertaining is fun and easy in “the most enjoyable space, the pavilion hall," says architect Matt Benson. Chandelier: Paul Marra. Sectional: Highland House. Cushions: Zak + Fox. Coffee table: Nickey Kehoe. Rug: L&M.
Behind a home in Pharr Acres sat a shabby barn housing two stalls, a workshop, a chicken coop, and a screened-in porch with a deteriorating foundation. A layer of pollen and leaves covered old furniture and lawn chairs, completing the rustic vibe.
The homeowners knew it was time to upgrade the barn to a usable and comfortable space for their family of four, which includes two teenage boys, and they wanted an informal area where they could gather with friends, host celebrations, or simply escape for quiet seclusion.
To truly create the perfect space, the couple enlisted Charlotte architectural mainstay Meyer Greeson Paullin Benson, with whom they had worked on a previous project. “They certainly wanted a more practical living space, but we also had to keep the functional aspects of the barn, efficiently incorporating a workshop and storage,” explains architect Matt Benson.
The architecture became an additive series of spaces that sunk into the hillside. Floor levels were altered to allow for easy access to the yard, and floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors were installed to marry the outdoor with the indoor, giving the space an open-pavilion feel. Both the ceiling design, inspired by the barn’s timber framing, and the cedar shake roof honor the building’s humble beginnings, but when paired with the simple millwork and moldings, deliver a modern edge.
Traditional materials and glass walls are used in this modern adaptation of the original barn, balancing the familiar with the new. Windows: Kolbe & Kolbe.
Stone paving: Tennessee Crab Orchard. Paint: Benjamin Moore Westcott Navy 1624.
The game table gets ample light and a gorgeous view next to a floor-to-ceiling window.
Table: Barrie Benson for Highland House. Draperies: Loro Piana. Chairs: Lawson Fenning. Chair fabric: Fermoie.
Add to this the elevated interiors designed by Barrie Benson, and the result is a study in simplistic maximalism. One large room with areas that flow together seamlessly, the interiors mimic the clean, minimalist exterior. Moody colors and cozy textures combine to create an outside-in feel, and the palette was made to complement the adjoining landscape and warm wood accents.
Now, the getaway the homeowners call “the barn” feels both unencumbered and familiar. The pavilion hall, which Matt Benson calls the most enjoyable space, is “ideal for Super Bowl parties, tequila tastings, birthday celebrations, or a secluded retreat away from brothers and parents,” he adds.
The completed structure is palatial without being grandiose. It’s warm and homey, yet cool enough for the kids. “In the daytime, you feel like you’re in the yard sitting in the grass,” says Matt Benson. “At night, when walls of windows turn dark, it becomes a
space to gather.”
cozy, intimate
Ceramic artwork covers the wall in the powder room featuring a Holland & Sherry wallpaper. Mirror: CB2. Artwork: Grace Stott from SOCO Gallery. Paint: Sherwin-Williams Garden Spot.
A white oak ceiling and doors stun in the billiard room, where family and friends gather to play pool and sip a cocktail. Cabinet color: Farrow & Ball Brinjal. Custom pool table: RS Barcelona.
WOMAN FOUNDED.
FAMILY OWNED.
LOCALLY OPERATED.
SINCE 1975.
STORIED
Gallery owner Katharine Hidell shares a special hallway in her personal home.
Produced by Anne Marie Ashley
“A GALLERY WALL is a visual story of one’s life, of sorts,” says Hidell Brooks Gallery co-owner Katharine Hidell. If this gallery hall in her personal home is a testament to that, Hidell has a fascinating life. “Years of collecting can be represented in one space, bringing not only complexity to a home, but also speaking volumes of the owners.”
Though the location of her gallery has moved around her home, the hallway now provides the most space for her large collection. When she gets a new piece, she finds one to remove and replaces it. A well-executed gallery is not as straightforward as one might think, and Hidell suggests that spacing, different mediums, and particular groupings all play into the intricate puzzle.
“The Todd Murphy piece at the end of the hallway offers an anchor,” explains Hidell. “There’s an early collage pile by Selena Beaudry given to my daughter on her first birthday, and a beloved work by Jessica Stockholder purchased from a Parisian gallery’s booth in New York years ago. So many stories add layers of history and a personal window into my life.”
Southern/Modern is generously presented in Charlotte by Wells Fargo and the Dowd Foundation. Individual sponsorship is kindly provided by Julie Boldt and Dhruv Yadav, Lucy and Hooper Hardison, Posey and Mark Mealy, and Rocky and Curtis Trenkelbach. Grant support for this exhibition has been generously provided by the Henry Luce Foundation, the Terra Foundation for American Art, the Andrew Wyeth Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Betsy and Alfred Brand Fund at The Mint Museum. The Mint Museum is supported, in part, by the North Carolina Arts Council. IMAGE: Will Henry Stevens (1881–1949). Untitled (detail), 1944, pastel on paper. The Mint Museum, Charlotte, NC. Gift of the Janet Stevens McDowell Trust. 2006.12.5
STEEPED
With stunning architecture and enviable art collections, these three UK destinations give so much more than they receive.
What if a trip could fill you? What if everything you saw and learned and dug into became part of the fabric of you upon your return? There is an art to making a getaway meaningful, and these three stays create experiences that last long after you return home.
Text by Anne Marie Ashley
Nude and Man with Pipe, by Picasso, in the drawing room of The Fife Arms.
THE FIFE ARMS
Just ten minutes past the Balmoral royal estate, nestled in the mountains of Cairngorm Natural Park in Scotland, rolling countryside gives way to the small unassuming village of Braemar, at the center of which sits The Fife Arms hotel—a luxurious, renovated nineteenth-century coaching inn with a trove of treasures waiting inside. Leave your bags with the concierge and soak in every artfilled nook and cranny of the hotel, enjoying the mix of original Scottish architecture with modern adornments, all set against the backdrop of roaring fires, Scottish tartans, and a friendly staff that is eager to please.
The hotel is packed with hidden rooms and quiet spaces, each one more eccentric than the last and each with its own unique story to tell. From the deep red velvets of Bertie’s whiskey room to the hand-painted ceiling in the drawing room, hotel owners Iwan and Manuela Wirth, copresidents of Hauser & Wirth arthouse in Zurich, admired
The piano, a work of art by Mark Bradford called Apollo, Still Shining, sits in the lobby of The Fife Arms.
as one of the world’s most important and influential galleries for contemporary art, have used the hotel as a passion project for art and design.
Walls adorned with house tartan and tweed by Scottish textile designer Araminta Campbell and beds carved to reflect the local landscape are just fractional examples of the attention to detail poured into the revival of the hotel.
With over sixteen-thousand pieces of original art in the hotel, it’s impossible not be immediately drawn into the space in which you find yourself.
Every day at 4 p.m., the concierge offers an art tour of the hotel, discussing the very special pieces that make The Fife Arms such an extraordinary setting. Antiques and specially commissioned artworks are thoughtfully integrated, and, alongside historical collections and newly commissioned artworks, a third spectacular group of works by major twentieth-century artists distinguish The Fife Arms from any other hotel in the world.
Dinner at The Clunie, named after the River Clunie that runs beside the hotel, is an experience alone, thanks to the dramatic mural by Argentinian artist Guillermo Kuitca that adorns the walls. The locally sourced menu features wood-fired dishes made with seasonal ingredients, which means it’s impossible to order badly—though, may we recommend the venison for an otherworldly experience of taste and texture?
If a more memory-sticking than rib-sticking experience is what you’re after, book an off-road highlands tour with the concierge. Sleek Fife Arms Range Rovers transform into all-terrain vehicles as your tour guide takes you up and over the Scottish Highlands, revealing history, breathtaking views, and the most curious Scottish flora and fauna in season. Stop to take in the landscape over a tipple of house whiskey and lock that memory into place.
To stay at The Fife Arms is to stay with family. The thoughtful design and exceptionally curated art send warm vibrations through every guest, only amplified by the welcoming staff and gorgeous landscape. It’s no wonder that each of the forty-six rooms pay homage to a tale, character, event, or place linked to Braemar. You’ll bring a little Scottish love home with you too.
The Royal Suite, inspired by Queen Victoria.
Bertie's, the whiskey lounge inside The Fife Arms.
THE BEAUMONT HOTEL
After taking in the mystery of the Scottish countryside, hop over to the bustling city of London to explore the cobblestone side streets of the Square Mile city, where pockets of hidden gems—like The Beaumont Hotel—are at every turn.
Tucked into a side street in high-end Mayfair and hidden behind Brown Hart Gardens, the Art Deco modernist fantasy has all the trappings of a fashionable boutique hotel befitting of its central London neighborhood, and all the heart of a charming bed-andbreakfast where everyone knows your name.
After undergoing an extensive renovation led by late designer Thierry Despont, the hotel rolled out its updated accommodations and public spaces in the beginning of 2024. Filled with rare books and objets d’arts, the 101 rooms and suites at The Beaumont are evocative of elegant piedsà-terre, filled with Pierre Frey fabrics that play well with pieces from American, British, and French artists alike. You can spend just as long languishing amid the paintings, books, heated floors, and oversized marble bathrooms as you can exploring swanky Oxford Street just steps away.
There are several specialty suites as well, including an experiential suite designed by Turner Prize–winner Antony Gormley, simply called ROOM. Born from the city’s requirement of all new buildings to feature public art, the unique accommodation is a standalone suite inside the giant semi-abstract sculpture by Gormley, which invites guests to sleep in a livable work of art that plays with light and dark—an experience totally singular to this hotel.
The Art Deco experience doesn’t stop in the rooms; take in the sprawling glowing murals inside The Colony Grill for dinner and enjoy the very best of British comfort food elevated to the nth degree. Settle into a cozy redleather booth and treat yourself to the whole branzino, expertly filleted tableside, for a visual feast that is equally delicious. Afterward, pop over to Le Magritte Bar and
sample one of their extensive cocktails, all served within sexy walnut-paneled walls and surrounded by twentieth-century paintings, including a masterpiece by René Magritte.
Extend the Art Deco experience beyond the walls of The Beaumont by grabbing brunch at nearby Mount St. Restaurant, located above The Audley in Mayfair. Another pocket-like experience, the restaurant, designed by French studio Laplace, integrates architecture, art, and design, showcasing site-specific commissions like the extraordinary Broken Floor—a palladiano mosaic floor by American artist Rashid Johnson. Another two-hundred pieces of art are featured throughout, including works by Andy Warhol, Henri Matisse, Lucian Freud, Philip Guston, Peter Fischli, and David Weiss. The incredible food plays second fiddle only to the incredible setting.
Art Deco grandeur adorns the lobby and Le Magritte bar at The Beaumont Hotel.
Superior Suite at The Beaumont Hotel.
THE BLOOMSBURY HOTEL
Located in the heart of the historic eighteenth-century London neighborhoods of West End, Soho, and Covent Garden, The Bloomsbury speaks just as loudly as it does softly. Residing inside a restored Grade II–listed neoGeorgian building designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the 1930s, the magnificent stone facade, stunning doubleheight bar, and Lutyens-designed ironwork betrays the coziness of this compact but mighty hotel.
One of eight Doyle Collection Hotels, the recent multimillion-dollar refurbishment of The Bloomsbury reveals a quirky and brilliant mash-up of Art Deco curves, flashy wallcoverings, and moody rooms paired with quaint corners filled with books, warm fires, and velvet sofas. Tucked away amid the literary capital of London, the hotel is a beacon for those looking to wander the talent-laden streets that run adjacent, from the British Museum and the Shakespearian plays of the West End to the picturesque bookshops that dot the University part of town. In tribute, the Seamus Heaney Library, a private dining room inside the hotel, is lined with classics and first editions of books, complete with a signed letter from its namesake poet laureate, a one-time guest at The Bloomsbury.
After checking in, consider heading down to the sitting room to relax by the fire while flipping through a tome and admiring the surrounding walls swathed in heritage botanical murals. Or, if you need some pep in your step, head across to the newly renovated 1920s-inspired Coral Room. Designed in collaboration with the acclaimed Martin Brudnizki, the bar features vivid coral-colored
lacquered walls, bespoke Murano glass chandeliers, and a stunning marble bar. It’s also home to thirty-six original pieces of art commissioned with illustrator Luke Edward Hall and inspired by the surrounding Bloomsbury area.
As an even more art-steeped bonus, The Bloomsbury partners with the nearby Donmar Warehouse, an intimate theater venue showing plays ranging from this year’s critically acclaimed Shakespeare’s Macbeth, starring David Tennant, to Anton Chekhov’s Cherry Orchard, and small, emerging plays in-between. The hotel concierge is happy to get hardto-get tickets for their guests and offers dinner on their Dalloway Terrace as a pre-theater treat that gets you there on time. Make plans to dine at Dalloway on a Sunday as well, so you can experience their Sunday Roast—a true Londoner tradition.
The Coral Room bar inside The Bloomsbury Hotel.
King suite at The Bloomsbury Hotel.
The sitting room inside The Bloomsbury Hotel.
1 Scrapped
Inspired by French postmodernism and the ancient bayous of Southern Louisiana, New Orleans–based furniture company
Doorman has launched a new collection of furniture pieces with an eco-modern edge. Many pieces, like the Basin Barstools, are made using scrap wood and feature architecturally inspired designs. doormandesigns.com
Heart-Rendering
The new Cuore (“heart” in Italian) collection by familyrun lighting design house Gaspare Asaro features seven new pieces, each fully customizable and available in ten finishes and eight enamels. Designed as abstract hearts, the chandeliers and sconces are hand-crafted in Italy and were conceived to be clean and balanced. gaspareasaro.com
3 Gaming the System
Midcentury-mod icon
Herman Miller has gotten into the game, partnering in Fall of 2024 with Brooklyn based art duo FAILE, creating a series of exhibition gaming chairs, hand-crafted joysticks, and these artwork prints made especially for gamers. Made to reflect the worlds of gaming and arcades, the colorful prints are a perfect addition for collectors and gaming rooms alike. hermanmiller.com
4
Imperfectionist
Jazmin Valdes-Hamid, founder and designer of Hashi Home, has just launched her debut collection of homewares, centered on the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. The aesthetic is based on the acceptance of transience and imperfection, and each piece features a unique and organic design based in nature. hashihome.com
5 Daydreamer
The new Reverie collection from mosaic tile masters New Ravenna allows everyone to create art. The three oneof-a-kind custom mosaics celebrate the natural world with designs created in glass and installed vertically for a truly stunning backdrop. renaissancetileandbath.com
Slabs That Tell a Story
Featured Material: Arabescato Corchia Marble
Mural Muse
This dreamy bedroom designed by R Titus Designs had a muse: a hand-painted mural by artist Susan Harter.
NOTHING IS BETTER than a bedroom that truly soothes you at the end of a long day, and we stopped in our tracks when we saw this one in a Myers Park home designed by Robin Titus-Schwadron. The mural swathed on the main bedroom wall, paired with a blushing ceiling to complement, covers every calming base. Harvard-trained artist Susan Harter spent twenty years painting murals in some of New England’s finest homes. She discovered the best method to print her murals onto wallcoverings for the highest quality aesthetic, and this Aldsworth pattern was inspiration for Titus. Plus, this custom ceiling light made by Urban Electric with fabric that’s repeated in the en-suite bathroom dials up the interest with subtle texture. Textbook relaxed stunner.
Bed: Century furniture. Nightstands: Modern History. Lamps: Arteriors Home.
CUSTOM CABINETS
DWELL
Meet the Contributor
Mary Coley McMillan of Studio MC
Favorite Design Style Refined forms enhanced with a vintage touch
Why This Color Timeless and effortlessly chic
Favorite Pick Murano glass mirror
White-Out
After the bold hues of the holidays run their course, designer Mary Coley McMillan hits reset with white.
I LOVE how winter whites carry a fresh, crisp energy into my home after the holiday season’s whirlwind of bold colors and layers. Once the decorations are packed away, a clean, airy look fills me with a sense of stillness and serenity. Soft whites feel like a deep breath for interior spaces, almost as if your home is hitting the reset button. It is the perfect way to enter the new year, with everything feeling open, light, and full of possibility.
1. Garrison Chandelier / starting at $10,159 / urbanelectric.com 2. Dune Table Lamp / $495 / incommonwith.com 3. Dubai Basket by Ekaterina Borovkova / $530 / artemest.com 4. Saint Germain Candle / $240 / diptyqueparis.com 5. Murano Glass Mirror / contact for pricing / sourcedbyjanetwiebe.com 6. Acrylic Book Stand / $69 / shopbop.com 7. Cirque Petite Mosaic Tile / inquire to buy / newravenna.com 8. Dior Star Sneakers / $950 / dior.com 9. Italian Marble Coffee Table / $1,475 / chairish.com 10. Box Pleated Bennett Sofa / starting at $3,400 / coleyhome.com 11. Vintage English Tea Stand / $998 / houseandparties.com 12. Pinch Knobs / $300 / neststudiocollection.com 13. Liane Down Vest / $995 / moncler.com
Coined in the South
THE MINT MUSEUM | THROUGH APRIL 27
The juried biennial exhibition Coined in the South features thought-provoking works by forty-nine talented artists from across the Southeast, from Maryland to Texas, that represent a diverse range of perspectives and styles. Created in collaboration with the Young Affiliates of the Mint, the exhibition reflects the creative process of artistic invention, transcending any singular aesthetic, theme, or medium. “Coined in the South has become one of our museum’s most eagerly awaited events, showcasing the remarkable talents and creativity of the region’s artists,” says Jonathan Stuhlman, PhD, Senior Curator of American Art and managing curator for the exhibition. mintmuseum.org
Impressions
ANNE NEILSON FINE ART | FEBRUARY 6–MARCH 6
Impressions explores the art of first encounters. How do first impressions shape our perceptions and biases? In the context of art, first impressions are not just about visual appeal but also about the emotional, psychological, and subconscious reactions we have when we encounter something new. This exhibition reflects on how we instantly evaluate color, people, places, objects, experiences, and more—and how these initial moments can be fleeting, lasting, or ever-changing. The artists featured also happen to be making their first impression in Charlotte, as ANFA introduces them to the arts scene. Opening is on February 6 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with a happy hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. anneneilsonfineart.com
Wheels and Arrows and Broken Promises
COLLECTED | ONGOING
Mixed-media artist Frankie Slaughter works with a variety of materials, including paint, encaustic, textile, paper, and porcelain. Her inspiration for Wheels and Arrows and Broken Promises began with her deep conviction to be a woman of her word. Promises, and the weight of them, became the starting point for her thoughts. As it evolved, Slaughter started to explore the principle of trust, the impact of broken promises, and the strength it takes to move forward. Also displaying their works are artists Kitty Williams, Erik Knight, Stan Gilliam, Jorge Zuluaga, and Michele Harvey Collins. collectedcharlotte.com
INTERIORS
SKOGLUFT
ARCHITECT BRYAN MERMANS AND DESIGNER CHARLOTTE LUCAS SEAMLESSLY BLEND NORWEGIAN ARCHITECTURE AND MODERN INTERIORS FOR A FOREST-AIR FEEL.
TEXT BY BLAKE MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS EDWARDS
Architect Bryan Mermans designed the twelvefoot sliding glass doors between the kitchen and patio to create a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The Indiana limestone flooring extends across both rooms with just a threshold dividing the spaces. Dining table and chairs: McKinnon and Harris. Pillow fabric: Perennials.
FOR ARCHITECT BRYAN MERMANS,
diving deep into architectural history is something that his job requires—but it’s also something he’s passionate about. So when his clients approached him about designing a home with nuanced nods to Scandinavian architecture and a connection to nature, Mermans eagerly went into research mode. “Whenever I meet with a client, we really dive deep into their background,” he explains. “The family, half Norwegian, lives part of every year in Norway, so, for this project, we took a little bit of a dive into Norwegian architecture.”
Mermans immersed himself in the Norwegian culture, making notes about the pragmatic architecture prevalent there as well as how the homes relate back to nature. “These old fishing villages had very simple gable architecture and simple siding on the nomadic structures,” he notes. It was the tie back to the beauty of the landscape that struck a chord with Mermans, as well. “A lot of these historical cottages had natural landscape roofs, which insulated the homes during the winter. And my clients loved the idea of that.”
When imagining the home, Mermans began using the term Skogluft, a Norwegian word meaning “forest air” that refers to the practice of bringing nature and light into a home. For Mermans and his clients, a living green roof was a unifying solution to the design, solving both sustainable and healthy home concerns while providing a historical Norwegian reference into the modern design. The design team, which also included builder Westwood Homes, sought out Asheville-based Living Roofs to design and install the living roof atop both the main home and pool house.
While Mermans worked on the architecture, designer Charlotte Lucas headed up the interior design. Having
worked on the family of four’s previous home, Lucas was attuned to the client’s needs and desires for a familyfriendly but sophisticated interior. “We elevated the sophistication of the home but also kept it very warm, comforting, and inviting for socializing, gathering, and everyday living,” says the designer. “They love color and a more modern-style architecture and furnishings, so we wanted to give them a contemporary, sleek look with a really inviting feel. Being the second project we’d worked on with them, we hit the ground running.”
Lucas took cues from exterior and interior architectural details, such as the hand-cut stacked Elkstone quarried in North Carolina, and punctuated the earth tones with lime-washed oak paneling on the ceiling and plaster walls in a custom complementary hue. In the lounge, Lucas highlighted the curved wall and designed a custom sofa that hugs its curvature. “We wanted to elevate the design to meet the architecture of that room,” says Lucas, who painted the walls and ceiling in a lacquered dark gray for a moody vibe. “It was really fun to have everything be one color so your eye moves around the room and takes in the greenery from outside.”
Now complete, the home is an oasis for the couple, who gather with their teenage daughters by the pool or on the tennis court, dine with friends in the outdoor living space, or simply unwind together in the den or lounge after a long day. “We wanted something with a lot of light, good use of open space, a modern design, and some Scandinavian elements in it. And we wanted it to be livable and comfortable,” says the homeowner. “We asked Charlotte and Bryan to come up with something, and what they designed was absolutely perfect.”
When drawing the architectural plans for the home, Mermans began using the term Skogluft, which means “forest air” and refers to the practice of bringing nature and light into a home. With the help of Westwood Homes, the architect achieved this with ample windows, a living green roof, and an indoor-outdoor living area. Landscape design: Greenline Design.
Mermans designed the pivoting front door with custom pulls as an “experience” for all who enter the home. “You have this pivoting foyer of glass, and it really makes for such a beautiful entry,” he explains.
Lighting: Urban Electric.
Artwork: Sally King Benedict from Hidell Brooks Gallery.
dining
family
For the
room,
room, kitchen, and outdoor living to flow seamlessly, Lucas had to get creative. Utilizing architectural details, she wove the lime-washed oak ceiling detail throughout, as well as the plaster walls and stone flooring. Chandelier: R Hughes. Coffee table: Invisible Collection. Sofa: R Hughes. Sofa fabric: Cowtan & Tout.
Lucas wanted to “cozy up” this corner of the family room, so she designed a custom settee to complement the pair of chairs around the game table. Artwork: Donald Martiny from Hidell Brooks Gallery. Table: 1stDibs. Chairs: Mambo Unlimited Ideas. Settee fabric: Soane.
The pool house boasts the same living green roof, designed by Asheville-based Living Roofs, as the main house, pulling historical Norwegian reference into the design of the home. Dining table: Anthropologie. Dining chairs: Serena & Lily.
A neutral grasscloth provides a restful foundation for a calm owner's retreat, and is a perfect companion to the lime-washed oak ceiling. Bed: Julian Chichester. Dresser: Thomas Hayes Studio. Wallpaper: Cowtan & Tout.
Britt DeCurtins of Charlotte Lucas Design dreamed up the powder room as a companion space to the nearby lounge, which boasts a cool, moody vibe. Wallpaper: Pierre Frey. Sconces: R Hughes.
“The curved walls of this space were such an interesting architectural detail, both inside and out, that we wanted to elevate the design to meet the architecture here,” says Lucas. “Playing off the curvature of the architecture, we had a custom sofa made that keeps the line of that curve perfectly.” Drapery fabric: Filippo Uecher. Chandelier: Lumfardo. Rug: Temple Studio.
The lime-washed oak ceiling tempers the formality of the dining room while complementing the de Gournay wallcovering. To balance the light, Lucas added a dark wood dining table. “The chairs are more delicate and fanciful, with metal and pretty brass along with blue velvet fabric that softens the space.” Wallcovering: de Gournay. Chandelier: Vintage Murano. Dining chairs: Jonathan Adler.
THE LITTLE THINGS
THE COMBINATION OF ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL AND INTERIOR DESIGN CREATES A STUNNING BACKDROP FOR THIS HOME IN OLD COTSWOLD.
Text by Anne Marie Ashley Photography by Michael Blevins
to
Wilson wanted ample room
spend time with his three children in a warm and timeless setting. Expansive windows bathe the long table and banquette of the breakfast room in morning light, with views to the custom pool and landscaped backyard. Pool: Waterscapes Custom Pools. Table: RH. Banquette: Hickory Chair. Chandelier: Hubbardton Forge.
IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS IN LIFE,
some say, that truly make it worth living. In architecture, while nothing is exactly “little,” the same concept is true: thoughtful details can create an environment truly worth living in. This collaborative build in old Cotswold for homeowner Tom Wilson is proof of concept.
The home sits on three-quarters of an acre, which is what drew Wilson to the lot, but that was quickly eclipsed by the in-process plans for a home designed by architect Greg Perry and built by Vernon Knight of Knight Residential Group. “The home’s exterior and floor plans were essentially fully designed when I took over the project,” recalls Wilson. “But I wouldn’t have changed a single thing. That’s what was so amazing. I was able to just focus on interiors like cabinet design, architectural trim decisions, paint colors, and finishes.”
What began as a spec home for Knight Residential ended as a clean, moody, cozy, and architecturally detailed home for Wilson. “Vernon had requested an innovative design that was still transitional,” says Perry. “We incorporated varied swooping roof lines,
A close second for his favorite room, Campbell designed the powder room with an all-marble vanity, a faucet that suspends from the ceiling, and textured wallcoverings for an enveloping feel.
Faucet: The Majestic Bath. Vanity: Designed by JLI. Wallpaper: Mark Alexander for Romo.
large window and door expanses, and hidden window dormers, all while maintaining symmetry.”
The exterior, however, tells a fraction of the story, where the interiors, designed by Layton Campbell of J. Layton Interiors, complete the plot. “The architecture of the home really shines and makes it feel custom—my study with honeycomb trim ceiling detail being a great example—but the art and the interiors make this home feel personal,” says Wilson.
Of course, it wasn’t as seamless as Campbell stepping in and making magic happen; there was a little give-andtake with the homeowner. “Tom really wanted a white brick exterior with black windows, and on the way with him to show me an example, I counted seventeen other homes just like it in the nearby area,” recalls Campbell. “I really wanted his home to be more unique for him, and so we settled on a German schmear for the exterior finish.” Inside, Campbell expanded Wilson’s comfort zone again, pulling him beyond the too-cool all grayand-white look he envisioned to a warmer palette by weaving in wood, deeper tones, layered lighting, and pops of color via his art collection.
“As neutral as Tom was envisioning for his home originally, I was so delightfully surprised with his colorful choices in art,” says Campbell. With fine art pieces from Hidell Brooks Gallery and artwork Wilson discovered in Raleigh—and even a commissioned piece by Carmen Guedez in the living room—the collection “brings life to some of the quiet moments,” Campbell says.
On the exterior, expansive windows with no adornments impart generous light to the sophisticated interiors. “The architecture of this home reflects the overall setting—a traditional Charlotte neighborhood that is currently experiencing growth and change,” says Perry. “To the outside world, great design respects the immediate environment while also challenging it to forward-thinking design.”
Ultimately, though, it’s the combination of exteriors and interiors that create stunning results. “Bad architecture cannot be remedied with pretty interiors; it’s the combination that makes jaws drop,” says Campbell. “When I take clients to shop for art, for example, it’s a passionate buy. All the layers tell a story, but you don’t get the personal connection until they choose artwork. When you love your art, whoever visits your home has a glimpse into your soul.”
The study features honeycomb trim detail on the ceiling, which is painted in the same moody blue as the rest of the room. A custom fireplace mantle, designed by Campbell and made by 2dash1, features all-black steel for a masculine and modern edge.
Artwork: Mel Rea from Hidell Brooks Gallery. Rug: Lee Jofa.
Desk: Custom by Campbell, fabricated by Das Wolfe.
ABOVE: Campbell designed the living room in zones: One corner features a game table with a sportsball sculpture overhead, while the other features a custom corner minisectional. Sectionals: Hickory Chair. Coffee table: Custom by Campbell, fabricated by Kauffman & Co. Furniture. Small sectional: Custom by Campbell through Ambella.
RIGHT: Campbell created a personal retreat for Wilson’s neutral-loving personality in the owner’s suite. The artwork by Lauren Reddick from Art House Charlotte serves as the only pop of color. Bed: Theodore Alexander. Bench: Hickory White. Bench fabric: Pindler. Chaise: Baker Furniture.
Stunning artwork by Jean Alexander Frater from Hidell Brooks Gallery is showcased in the entrance of the home, situated over a custom bench designed by Campbell and fabricated by Das Wolfe. Rug: Cappadocia. Chandelier: Hubbardton Forge.
Wilson chose most of the paint colors, including Paean Black on the bar, but the reflective lacquer, completed by Fine Paints of Europe, gives aubergine vibes. “It’s so cozy, especially at night,” says Wilson of the bar. Tile: Palmetto Tile. Cabinetry: Custom by Campbell. Sconce: Arteriors. Hardware: Bird Decorative Hardware & Bath.
Simple and modern, the kitchen is a center of warmth, featuring a wood-paneled island, warm white cabinets, and a marble backsplash.
Pendants: Hubbardton Forge. Range hood: Custom Venetian plaster fabricated by Knight Residential Group.
This corner of the living room is reserved for the game table, where a spheres sculpture by ceramic artist Virginia Scotchie from Hidell Brooks Gallery adds color and whimsy to the space. Table: Baker Furniture. Chairs: Ambella Home. Chandelier: Baker Furniture.
“I’ve been told I have a skillset for designing dining rooms,” says Campbell. “And this is one of my favorites. Most people don’t use their dining room every day, which means when they do, it’s special. So, you step up the experience with the design.” Table: Custom by Campbell, fabricated by Kauffman & Co. Furniture. Chandelier: Apparatus. Wallcovering: Phillip Jeffries.
ART ISTIC LICENSE
Designer Mara Steinmetz goes big and bold in an artist's color-saturated home.
TEXT BY MARIA MASTERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BLEVINS
In the family room, Steinmetz removed the traditional fireplace and replaced it with a sleek, modern iteration in infinity
The
though, is a
Norris wanted one of her personal pieces of art to hang above the console in the dining room, it was a happy coincidence that it complemented the room: “It just fell into place perfectly,” says
quartzite.
star of the room,
painting by Nico Amortegui, which hangs above the fireplace.
Sofas: Charles Stewart and Four Hands. Chair: Four Hands. Coffee table: Woodbridge Furniture. OPPOSITE: When
Steinmetz. Rug: Nashville Rug Gallery. Table: Four Hands. Chairs: Four Hands. Console: Gabby. Chandelier: Arteriors.
Steinmetz opted to make a statement in the den by color drenching the walls and door in a subtle blue shade. The artwork above the fireplace is one of Norris's and complements the hue. Sofa: Charles Stewart. Table: Worlds Away. Chairs: Highland House. Stools: Kenian. Lamps: Arteriors.
S“Should I renovate this house, or do you think I can put a Band-Aid on it?” That was the question Trudi Norris posed to her friend Mara Steinmetz. It was the summer of 2021, and the house hadn’t been updated in the two decades since it had been built. The interior designer’s answer was swift and blunt: “Renovate. We could do so many cool things.”
The bones of the home were solid, but the floor plan was choppy and the space wasn’t suitable for a family of five; plus, Norris, an artist, and her husband, Gray, both love to entertain. With the help of architect Stephen Grotz and builder Simonini, Steinmetz flexed her design muscles to reconfigure the layout of the house and create a more open space, removing the wall separating the kitchen and dining room and installing more windows in the kitchen to let in natural light. “It made the room look classic and timeless,” says Steinmetz. The renovations, which started in December of 2021, took a year to complete.
With the layout finalized, it was time for an interiors refresh. “Trudi’s art is always so colorful and fun, but the house was very neutral. It didn’t represent her fun, colorful style,” says Steinmetz. So she forged ahead, creating an aesthetic that highlighted Norris’s bold personality. One criteria: various pieces of art needed to seamlessly blend into the design. For decades, the artist had accumulated an impressive collection that included both her own pieces as well as those of artists she admires, particularly local ones such as Nico Amortegui and Tony Mose.
In the dining room, she incorporated one of Norris’s pieces—a bright, floral landscape—pairing it with a vibrant camo-blue fabric on the dining chairs and a custom pink-and-blue vintage-inspired rug. In the den, the subtle blue hue of the room complements one of Norris’s early traditional landscapes hanging above the fireplace. Steinmetz also replaced most of the original furnishings, which were too large for the space, with newer ones that reflected the modern, colorful aesthetic.
Now, after twenty years of living in her home, Trudi finally has a space that reflects her both as an artist and a person. “We’ve been living with the new space for about two years, and everything is functional and minimalistic,” the artist says. “It finally reflects who I am, who we are. I love it.”
Norris requested an open, minimalist kitchen, so she forwent upper cabinetry in favor of two large windows. Cabinetry: Mint Hill Cabinets. Countertops: Bottega Surfaces.
Chandelier: Lucent Lightshop. Counter stools: Four Hands.
ABOVE: In the owner’s bedroom, pops of cranberry- and salmon-toned hues add warmth to an otherwise neutral palette. Bed: Custom from Isabella. Nightstands: Woodbridge Furniture. Lamps: Arteriors. Bench: Universal. Chairs: Brownstone Furniture. BOTTOM LEFT: Steinmetz took inspiration from Norris’s beach house and accented the powder room walls in an ocean-themed wallpaper by Makelike. Vanity: Mint Hill Cabinets. Light fixture: Sazerac Stitches. Mirror: Isabella. BOTTOM RIGHT: Norris requested a “fun” utility room, which doubles as both a laundry area and drop zone for the family’s shoes and coats. Cabinetry: Mint Hill Cabinets. Wallpaper: Sanderson. Paint trim: Farrow & Ball Dix Blue.
Norris keeps palms in the front of the home, so Steinmetz carried the theme inside by accenting the walls with a contemporary palm-inspired wallpaper. “Right off the bat, people get a sense of who I am as an artist and really feel welcome,” says Norris. Wallpaper: Harlequin. Door: Clark Hall Doors & Windows. Table: Arteriors.
Steinmetz incorporated little details throughout the house, including a bar tucked into the end of a hallway near the kitchen. “We hid a cutting board in the cabinetry that pulls straight out so that Trudi and her husband could cut limes for drinks,” she says.
Cabinetry: Mint Hill Cabinets. Tile: Walker Zanger.
RESOURCES
RESOURCES
Armchair Traveler
House of Nomad’s new collection brings global wanderings home.
Grounded in a retro look, House of Nomad debuts a new collection inspired by the '60s and '70s, as well as their travels, playing with scale, color, and pattern.
HOUSE OF NOMAD
Text by Brandy Woods Snow
CO-OWNERS of House of Nomad Berkeley Minkhorst and Kelley Lentini love global travel and exciting patterns. Even more, they love blending their two passions on the design floor of their store. “Much of our inspiration comes from our travels. It’s the undercurrent of everything we do at House of Nomad,” Lentini says.
The pair is always seeking fabrics and wallpapers to layer, initially aspiring to create a line of their own. They achieved this in 2021 with the successful launch of their first fabric and wallpaper line. Now, three years later, after opening a new studio and starting families, Minkhorst and Lentini return with a fresh collection, representative of something a bit eclectic and unexpected.
“We have taken lessons from the last collection and our new life experiences, and applied them here,” Minkhorst says. “This collection is much more personal. Many of the patterns were sketched, painted, and marbled by us.” Released in October 2024, the new collection is grounded in a retro look, drawing inspiration from the vibes of the 1960s and ’70s—House of Nomad’s favorite era. It includes four prints—Topo, Gridlock, Lost in Translation, and Medina Maze—offering color pairings ranging from calming and grounding to bold and energetic.
Topo is evocative of the Peruvian topography and is available in three colorways—Saddle Brown & Black, Surf & Black, and Citrine & Saddle Brown. Gridlock emulates block-printed Bauhaus stripes with bold geometric shapes and clean lines. Vibrant and modern, it is available in Surf & Mint, Cobalt & Cab, and Jade & Citrine. Lost in Translation, large-scale and full of personality, is available
“” Much of our inspiration comes from our travels. It’s the undercurrent of everything we do.
—Kelley Lentini
in Surf & Mint and Sunbaked & Citrine. With maximum versatility to cover a wall or a small pillow, the pattern is unique in that it features some of the original sketch marks from its design. Medina Maze, born from a marbling project, balances structure with fluidity in five bold color pairings—Cobalt & Cab, Black & Natural, Surf & Saddle Brown, Sunbaked & Cab, and Citrine & Saddle Brown.
“In the first collection, the colors directly connected to places we’d been. For instance, the terra-cotta used is reminiscent of the tones of Marrakech,” Lentini says. “In the new collection, the composition of the patterns is more directly tied to our travels. Topo is representative of the topography when landing in Cusco for the first time. Medina Maze reminds us of the countless times we’ve been lost in the labyrinth of the Medina in Marrakech.”
All patterns are made-to-order in all colorways in the following substrates: grasscloth wallpaper, pre-pasted wallpaper, Type 2 wallpaper for commercial projects and high-traffic areas, and 100-percent linen. All patterns are also available in 100-percent linen pillows in a variety of shapes.
Minkhorst and Lentini plan to grow their fabric and wallpaper lines. “We love the artistic freedom to create something authentically House of Nomad,” Minkhorst says. “Seeing our patterns in people’s homes and in commercial projects is the biggest compliment. Expect more to come!”
Kelley Lentini, left, and Berkeley Minkhorst
ASK THE EXPERT
Gracious Living
Melissa Lee
Principal Designer & CEO of New South Home
How does Gracious Living inform your design?
Gracious Living is the foundation of New South Home. It’s more than a design aesthetic—it’s a way of life. Rooted in Southern hospitality yet universally relevant, it’s about creating spaces that invite connection and provide comfort. Gracious Living balances timeless style, quiet luxury, and modern convenience, turning a home into a sanctuary where families can cherish the present and inspire their next chapter.
What’s a design principle that will never go out of style?
Incorporating personal details and meaningful pieces that reflect our clients' lives and stories. These elements add character, warmth, and individuality to a home, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Curating homes around these details creates a timeless appeal. Blending personal significance with intentional design feels both authentic and enduring.
Any 2025 design trends you're loving?
Several design trends resonate with New South Home's commitment to creating spaces that inspire gracious living.
Rich, Earthy Color Palettes. Moving away from neutral tones, the upcoming year embraces deep, warm hues such as burgundy, navy blue, and saturated greens. Rich colors add depth and sophistication, embracing our values of timeless style and quiet luxury.
Curved Furniture Forms. Rounded furniture pieces, such as circular dining tables and curved sofas, are gaining popularity. These softer forms add a sense of comfort and approachability, enhancing the inviting atmosphere we strive to create in every home.
Layered Textures and Patterns. There's a growing interest in adding color, pattern, and texture into spaces, moving away from minimalism. This layered approach creates a rich, personalized environment, reflecting our dedication to curating homes that resonate with individual stories and lifestyles.
For more information, visit newsouthhome.com
Southern Sophistication
The Courts of Prince Charles sets the bar for luxury in Charlotte.
The Courts of Prince Charles, a luxury community in the heart of Foxcroft, sets the standard for upscale living in Charlotte.
MATTHEW BENHAM
Text by Brandy Woods Snow
IN A CITY where modern ambition meets timeless Southern charm, a new pinnacle of luxury living has emerged.
The Courts of Prince Charles, Charlotte’s newest luxury home community in the heart of Foxcroft, seamlessly blends sophisticated design and functional living. This exclusive ten-home enclave offers semicustom-built residences with expansive open floor plans, abundant storage, and access to one of Charlotte’s most desirable neighborhoods. With the highest standards in both aesthetics and construction, The Courts of Prince Charles is redefining luxury living.
“Luxury is defined as soon as you walk in the door,” says Rodrick Shiver, Principal of The Courts of Prince Charles. “From soaring ceilings and custom cabinetry to the details you can’t see—like superior construction quality—we’re delivering homes that offer convenience, functionality, and timeless beauty.”
For Shiver, quality is more than a promise—it’s a core value ingrained in every stage of the building process. With more than fifty years of combined expertise, the team adopts a risk-averse approach to ensure excellence. A site superintendent with decades of experience is onsite daily, overseeing progress through a detailed checklist and constant communication with subcontractors. Shiver himself spends several days a week on location, personally inspecting every detail. “We never get comfortable with past performance. This is not just a transactional job—it’s about building rapport and relationships,” says Shiver. “By listening to client feedback and building trust in our strategic partnerships, we continually push the envelope to deliver a home that exceeds expectations.”
The homes of The Courts of Prince Charles stand out for their thoughtful design and luxurious features. From full-brick exteriors to chef-inspired kitchens with handcrafted custom maple cabinetry, quartz countertops, and oversized islands with farmhouse sinks, every element exudes sophistication. Inside, ten-foot coffered ceilings,
“Luxury is defined as soon as you walk in the door.
”—Rodrick Shiver
eight-foot solid core doors, upgraded moldings, and custom built-ins reflect meticulous craftsmanship. Beyond aesthetics, advanced insulation enhances comfort by protecting against the elements and minimizing noise. With dual laundry rooms and maximized storage, these homes are tailored to modern lifestyles.
The Courts of Prince Charles owes its success to strategic partnerships. “Every city has its own unique character, and Charlotte is no exception,” Shiver explains. “That’s why we aligned with partners who share our core values and understand the community.” After a rigorous vetting process, they teamed up with Smith Slovik Design Group and Helen Adams Realty.
“Smith Slovik’s portfolio impressed us with its blend of styles, open floor plans, and commitment to functionality, and Anna Fenno of Helen Adams Realty routinely goes beyond transactions to foster genuine client relationships. Together, they bring an unparallelled level of expertise and personalized care that enhances every aspect of our client experience,” Shiver says. “This is how The Courts of Prince Charles is pushing the envelope in the Charlotte luxury home market.”
Form and Function
THIS FAMILY’S kitchen renovation is a stunning example of how design can elevate both aesthetics and functionality. Linda Griffeth of Linda Griffeth Interiors reimagined this former dining room to create a vibrant and functional heart of the home. The use of warm walnut wood on the cooktop wall, which is also repeated on the floating island, creates a sense of continuity while drawing the eye throughout the space. The island boasts a unique glass cutout at the base, showcasing the client’s beautiful North Carolina pottery and glass collection, while the full-height granite backsplash, with its mitered-edge niches for oils and spices, adds a touch of elegance and practicality. This kitchen is not just a place to cook—it’s also a gathering space that embraces the family’s unique style, and, ultimately, it’s a work of art.
For more information, visit lindaginteriors.com.
BECKY MCGRATH TEAM
LEIGH C. CORSO
LUCY BUTLER GROUP
CHRISTIE HANSEN
THE HUNEYCUTT TEAM
CHIP JETTON
HEATHER MONTGOMERY
KALIE KOIVISTO
LINDA HENLEY
SARA ROCHE TEAM
LINDSAY REDFERN
CINDI HASTINGS TEAM
TREY SULLIVAN
LISA WARREN
HEATHER WOLKING
TUCK TEAM
LISA RUPP
Ten Million Meals to Go
Text by Jim Noble, Executive Chef and Owner of Noble Food & Pursuits
I’VE SET A NEW GOAL. Since we opened our first restaurant in 1983, we’ve served roughly ten million meals to the poor and hungry in our communities. My philosophy has always been that our restaurants should not just be establishments for dining, but drivers for change. We have a passion for serving everyone. I’m asking you to join our cause, because we want to serve ten million more.
In Luke 3:11, the Bible tells us, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and
anyone who has food should do the same.” In Charlotte, there’s been a measurable difference in the number of people experiencing food insecurity and homelessness since the pandemic. They need us.
For more than forty years our restaurants have donated chef-prepared food to people and organizations. Our giving became a more organized effort when we opened The King’s Kitchen. It’s a nonprofit that uses all proceeds to make and serve
SOUL FOOD
Jim Noble
Contributor
Nate Daise prepares meals for those in need at The King's Kitchen.
“Our restaurants should not just be establishments for dining, but drivers for change.”
meals for those who need them, in addition to offering job training and discipleship. I chose Uptown for the location because I wanted it to be accessible and welcoming to the majority of the homeless population.
This new donation effort, Ten Million Meals to Go, asks those with an appetite to do good to donate $5 at any of our restaurants. The money will go directly toward our meal preparation for the hungry and homeless. Five dollars is the cost of providing one meal to one person, and it can make a difference in someone’s life—someone who really needs it. It can mean the difference between going hungry and getting one meal a day, or eating inexpensive, unhealthy, processed foods instead of a wellbalanced meal prepared by professional chefs.
We’re doing this not just to restore folks physically, but to restore hope and dignity. I tell my teams at the Dream Center and in our restaurants, “If you wouldn’t feed this to your grandmother, don’t feed it to the needy.” Serving a warm plate to someone is one of the most meaningful and impactful things you can do in their life, especially when they are down and out.
During the pandemic of 2020, Noble Food & Pursuits served over 170,000 meals to those in need. After Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, we provided over 30,000 meals to those in mountain communities impacted by the storm. We volunteered with World Central Kitchen at their meal pickup point in Asheville, and I had the privilege of serving there for a couple days in early October. They had an amazing operation of feeding people who had lost their homes, belongings, and, in many cases, hope.
While not everyone owns a restaurant and is able to prepare the amount of food needed to feed large groups in need, we’ve created this easy way for you to help. You could turn someone’s day around, or, better yet, you could change someone’s life.
Chef Noble and team members serve meals in Asheville following Hurricane Helene.
Contributor
Make an Entrance
Text by Beth Conant Keim, Owner of Lucy and Company
I PUT A LOT of thought into designing a foyer. Along with the powder room, it’s where your guests can stop and admire your style. The foyer is a first-impression space and an introduction to the home, but, more importantly, it tells the story of the owner’s taste and personality. It’s the perfect place for a little drama; wallpaper can achieve that, mirrors can achieve that, and even a dramatic floor design can set the tone for what’s ahead.
I love a cohesive color palette throughout the house, but even with cohesion, one space can be more vibrant and dramatic than another. When choosing wallpaper (which I use in most of my design projects), texture combined with pattern can create a whimsical feel or a very sophisticated one. Mirrors, both antique and clear, are another way to add punch to a space. Or you might consider a mirrored wall, which can add depth and
Beth Conant Keim
ROOM SERVICE
“The foyer is a first-impression space and an introduction to the home.”
elegance. The pattern on a full wall adds interest, drawing the eye in many directions.
Stunning lighting is a must in all foyers, though the floor is an area you can switch up, as well. Your hardwoods can run in a different direction from hardwoods in the rest of the home—a herringbone pattern, perhaps? Or you can even opt for painted
flooring; consider plotting out a good geometric pattern. Pattern choices are endless, too, with tile flooring another great option. Remember, floors are your fifth wall!
When designing your foyer, remember that thoughtful elements set the tone for the whole home, enhancing the aesthetic and elevating the welcoming vibe.
1. Lemon Swirls by The Whole Hope
“Starting the day with warm lemon water is my favorite health habit! I created Lemon Swirls with the hope of bringing ease and intention into your daily routine.”
2. What To Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking, by Caroline Chambers
“Owning a small business has made my time in the kitchen somewhat of a distant memory. I can attest that this cookbook truly lives up to its name.”
3. Anne Neilson Trio Journal
“My faith is everything to me, and these journals are the perfect addition to my daily devotion and gratitude practices.”
Hope Skouras
NATIVE CHARLOTTEAN Hope Skouras loves all things holistic nutrition.
“I began my Instagram account by sharing tips on holistic health with others,” says the mom of three. “I shared my healthy habit of drinking warm lemon water, and it organically became my ‘thing.’ I quickly realized that many of my followers and health-coaching clients said they didn’t have the time to make warm lemon water in the morning, so I decided on a whim to create a product to take out all the steps.” The Whole Hope and its Lemon Swirls—ginger and turmeric lemon tablets that you drop in hot water—were born and, in just a year, has taken off. Though her focus is nutrition, Skouras also has an affection for interior design. “You can learn so much about people through the colors, patterns, artwork, and overall feeling that is displayed within their home,” she says. Here, Skouras shows us what’s brightening up her winter.
4. Lemon Studs from Tiny Gods
“My mama gifted me these lemon studs, and they are an everyday staple. I love to wear jewelry with meaning.”
5. Caroline’s Cakes Gluten-Free Caramel Cake Bites
“The perfect treat to pull out when hosting, during the holidays and beyond! As a Southern girl, I am very thankful for some gluten-free caramel goodness.”
6. Hampton House Frances Tablecloth
“Whether hosting a dinner or playing Mahjong with friends, these tablecloths are an effortless way to pretty things up.”
7. High Rise Beverages
“I love these drinks when the vibe I’m feeling is not boozy. The blood orange flavor is my favorite.”
