Waterfront Wonders: Designing a Family Retreat on Lake Martin

By
Lynn Nesmith
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Located at The Ridge, a Russell Lands community on Lake Martin, the house enjoys a commanding stature with a gracious scale and engaging proportions. Compelling natural materials, attention to detail, and craftsmanship of the stone and wood in this home instill its character. Photography by Jean Allsopp

A weekend home should be a respite from the stress of work and the responsibilities of day-to-day life. But when you live and work along Florida’s 30A, where else do you go to relax and have fun? Especially if you prefer waterfront over a mountaintop?

In the fall of 2020 during Covid, Sister and Neill O’Connell were looking to get away, so they rented a house on Lake Martin for an extended family vacation. “For years we had talked about buying a farm or land with running water,” recalls Neill. But for an active family who loves nature and is drawn to water sports, a big beautiful lake within easy driving distance to Santa Rosa Beach was an obvious choice. The couple soon found a desirable lot in The Ridge, a Russell Lands on Lake Martin community that offered a preferred builder and an existing Russell Lands house plan by Dungan Nequette Architecture.

(LEFT) An upstairs porch off the primary suite is ideal for morning coffee or evening cocktails. In lieu of a traditional wooden railing, the builders used steel hog-wire fencing to keep the view as open as possible. (RIGHT) A fully equipped outdoor kitchen offers the perfect spot for taking in the views while casually grilling or concocting more gourmet meals.

As an engineer with decades of experience, Neill wanted to put his own stamp on the design. He tailored it specifically for how their active family lives today while addressing future needs as their three girls grow up.

“We flipped the floor plan, raised the ceilings, enlarged the windows, and stretched the bedrooms, but we also focused on small details like placing kitchen switches and outlets to correspond with our full-time house,” says Neill. Most importantly, he revised the scheme to take full advantage of the property’s prime spot overlooking big water. And since the O’Connells had worked in the past with interior designer Georgia Carlee, who had recently relocated to Lake Martin, everything came together quickly.

A waterfall ledge on the pool is a bonus water feature that overlooks Lake Martin.

Approachable and familiar, the house offers refined proportions and a welcoming scale. “We wanted a native Alabama stone and selected Napa Valley Mix for its warm earth tones,” says Georgia. Along the street elevation, stone accents pair with the cedar beams and wood-frame construction.

To embrace the lake, the family chose a solid foundation and a trio of sturdy pillars that allows the local stone to take center stage as the home rambles along the gently sloping shoreline. The result is a series of outdoor rooms that seems to be naturally carved. Finely cut and honed Tennessee bluestone in complementary tones distinguishes the stepped terraces, covered porch, spa, and infinity pool for a commanding stature and sense of permanence.

A bank of windows and a soaring vaulted ceiling create a welcoming sense of space. The coffee table made from a teak root was chosen for its organic appearance. “I appreciated the visual texture it offered against the solidness of the sofa and the rug,” says Georgia.

Inside, authentic materials are repeated in an equally expressive and tranquil way, creating a consistent thread that runs throughout. To complement the tones and textures of these stone and wood surfaces, Georgia opted for furnishings and finishes that are deliberately warm and subtle in a color palette that strikes a balance with the landscape.

With a friendly composure, spaces flow one to another in a livable layout. In the living room, tall windows that reach to the floor put the focal point on the outdoors. “The chairs swivel to take in views of the lake rather than a television,” adds Georgia.

(LEFT) An upholstered bench offers seating for the kitchen’s center island. Windows above the sink were designed to easily open as a pass-through for grilling and entertaining in the outdoor summer kitchen. (RIGHT) The minimal use of draperies allows every space to be drenched with light from sun up to sunset. In the dining room, café curtains offer visual privacy from the street while still allowing views through the house to the lake.
Wood paneling animates the bedroom walls.

A deep framed opening delineates a kitchen, resonating with a mood that is both refined old-world and refreshingly contemporary. The same stone provides a backsplash that rises to the ceiling and pairs with two-inch-thick concrete countertops and substantial hardware. “There’s nothing delicate about the materials and fixtures,” says Georgia. “Stone and wood make great partners because of their complimentary tones and textures. It’s the perfect mix of rustic and sophistication.”

(LEFT) a soaking tub happily resides in a sunny nook enlivened with stone walls and a solid pecky cypress bench. (MIDDLE) A bunk room with four queen bunks and trundle beds resides down a private corridor. (RIGHT) Georgia mixed tile and wood in the powder room for a pleasing mix.

Connecting with nature is a luxury to be embraced and encouraged. In the spirit of any vacation getaway, this new home radiates an open invitation to unwind, relax, and delight in good times with family and friends. Isn’t that what it’s really all about?

The pool, firepit, and dock on the lake side of the house reflects the family’s focus on outdoor fun.

Resources

Interior Design: Georgia Carlee, GCI Design, Alexander City, Alabama; gcarlee.com
Engineering: O’Connell & Associates Consulting Engineers, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida; oconnellengineers.com
Builder: Lake Martin Signature Construction, Alexander City, Alabama; lakemartinsignatureconstruction.com
Superintendent from Lake Martin Signature Construction: Lyle Nickles
Interior and Exterior Stone: Napa Valley Mix, Alabama Wholesale Stone, Oneonta, Alabama; alastone.com

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Historic Revival: Pfeffer Torode’s New Birmingham Design Studio

By
BHG Staff
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Pfeffer Torode Architecture expands its reach across the southeast by adding its newest design studio in Birmingham.

Photography by Ali Harper Photography

Birmingham is the latest addition to the studios of Pfeffer Torode Architecture brand. Nashville, Chattanooga, and Montgomery have already felt the firm’s presence in shaping the architecture of their cities—now, it’s our turn. And they’re already making it better. Converting a former Southside landmark on Cobb Lane to serve as their studio brings back style and purpose to the cobblestone street. “Historically, we have always preferred refitting existing buildings for our studios, and Birmingham is well supplied with old homes, storefronts, and warehouses,” says design principal Scott Torode, who will be at the helm of the new office. “The structure’s residential scale and details like brick cobbles and masonry arches recall its original use as a carriage house.”

“Our decision to establish our studio on Cobb Lane
was about embracing the city and participating in the thriving pool of design talent that Birmingham enjoys.”

—Scott Torode

Following a decade-long tenure at the esteemed McAlpine firm, Scott joined his brother, Jonathan, and friend, Jamie Pfeffer, at Pfeffer Torode Architecture. His background has instilled in him a dedication to consistently integrate nature into the built environment, creating authentic and timeless spaces for clients. He has already started establishing a reputation in the Mountain Brook area, having completed three homes in the neighborhood. “I’m fortunate to be to returning to Birmingham, a city that was very formative to me in my childhood and which left an indelible impression on me with its style and natural beauty,” Scott says. “Maybe having a father who was an architect helped, but I always appreciated the architectural landscape of Birmingham and its surrounding boroughs. It’s undoubtedly one of the most picturesque cities in the South.”

www.pfeffertorode.com

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Showroom Style: Inside Nicole Roby’s Design Studio and Philosophy

By
Cathy Still McGowin
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Designer Nicole Roby invites us into her studio, Rome Curate, to share her philosophy on design and what fuels both her creative and business sides.

Rome Curate Studio
Nicole Roby Designs offers hands-on service from consultation to installation. Nicole and her team skillfully guide clients through a design process, beginning with a presentation that addresses every aspect of design—from interior architecture, both structurally and aesthetically, to the selection of home furnishings and decor.
Photography by JEAN ALLSOPP

How did you get started in design?
My mom played a huge role in growing my passion for interior design. She not only had an eye for the art, she also truly emphasized teaching me the importance of creating inviting and beautiful spaces for others. While I was in college at the University of Georgia, I interned at the interior design firm my mom worked for and gained valuable experience and design knowledge. It wasn’t long before I knew that I wanted to start my own interior design firm. So in 2019, I started Nicole Roby Designs and recently, in October 2023, launched my second company, Rome Curate, a lifestyle ecommerce brand.

Nicole Roby

Why Birmingham?
I am originally from Scottsboro, Alabama, but I also lived in Florence, Alabama, and Athens, Georgia, before settling in Birmingham in 2014. My decision to move to Birmingham was driven by a desire for the perfect balance. Birmingham offers the vibrancy of a larger city without being overwhelming in size. Plus, I believe Birmingham is one of the top design hubs in the country. The city has an array of exceptional designers with years of industry experience.

Define your style.
Classic and memorable infused with a modern sensibility.

I like to blend layers of natural elements to create an aesthetic of livable luxury. Making my clients’ visions come to fruition is the most rewarding aspect of my work and fuels my passion for what I do. My team and I have a deep appreciation for the history and artistry of all design styles.

You started Rome Curate as an extension/resource for both Nicole Roby Designs and as a resource for other designers who don’t necessarily have the inventory. Tell us more.

Skincare products

I’ve always had creative concepts that involve the need for unique pieces, whether in form or color. After a while, I decided to fuel my creativity and create my own collection. Recognizing that many designers were in need of inventory as well, I initiated a trade program within Rome Curate. Our trade program is open to designers, architects, home developers, and any other professionals in the design field. I appreciate elegant, high-quality furnishings, but I was also determined to make my pieces as functional as they are beautiful. I currently have 10 original designs and am proud to say that each piece is fashioned with skill and craftsmanship by artisans in Hickory, North Carolina. For textiles, I admire handsome and timeless fabrics. I chose durable, high-quality materials because these pieces were designed to be lived on. My preference leans towards strong, foundational neutrals with heavy textures, but I also appreciate the occasional pops of colors, like green and gold. We also encourage personalization with fabrics. Our collection is growing, so we will be introducing new pieces soon.

Rug collection

Tell us about your custom rug line.
As of now, we have 17 total rug designs. Our goal was to establish versatile palettes, allowing our customers the freedom to personalize their space without color limitations. It was important for us to create rugs that would serve as great foundational elements. We like to think of them as the equivalent of the timeless little black dress that can effortlessly complement anything.

You also carry antiques, accessories, and new case goods. What do you look for to build Rome Curate as a complete collection?
Our vision is to serve as a host where individuals can discover all their needs at home, from interior furnishings to skincare. Ultimately, we hope to become a one-stop shop for a diverse range of products, including cookware, pet essentials, fashion, and beyond. We have recently expanded our business another 7,500 square feet and have begun renovations. We are excited about the growth of both Nicole Roby Designs and Rome Curate.

Bathroom
Chest

Curated and Collected

Favorite finishes: I firmly believe in the importance of blending various elements to create a well-designed, curated space. I appreciate the diverse range of wood stains across various wood species and the unique beauty of burls and inlays in specific types of wood. My team and I also love painted accent pieces, whether they are in bold, vibrant colors or warm neutrals.

Approach to art: I like to think of art as completing the puzzle of a home. I tend to choose art that is unusual and brings life and vitality to a space. We are proud to feature artists, both local and national, through Rome Curate. We want Rome Curate to serve as an outlet for artists to showcase their work.

Accessorizing: Too many knick-knacks can detract from the overall design. To eliminate clutter, I prefer using a few special pieces that make strong statements.

“My design services are a combination of both my client’s vision and my design touch. At the end of the day, the goal is to make their home special and uniquely tailored to their preferences.”

—Nicole Roby
Skincare products

Skincare Secrets

I am Asian American and have family in the beauty industry in Seoul, South Korea. Korean skincare and cosmetics are a cutting-edge development—the best in the world, really. Since the luxury lines are hard to access without ties to Korea, I thought it would be great to help others access these brands. Rome Curate sells The History of Whoo and O HUI.

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Tropical Transformation: Crestline Home’s Vibrant Makeover

By
Peggy Redwine
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Dining room
“It all started with the wallpaper. My clients loved this one (Meg Braff’s Bamboo Garden in Aqua). It’s colorful, but airy enough to be really livable,” says Zoë, who paired the paper with some funky, 70s dining chairs painted white. She rounded out the rest of the room with simple classics from favorite local sources like a custom walnut-and-white steel dining table from Manufacture Good and the colorful flatweave from Paige Albright Orientals.
Photography by Laurey Glenn

Timing is everything. That’s particularly key to understanding the vibrant atmosphere behind the aqua front doors of Laura and Carson Penkava’s house in Crestline. After seeing decorator Zoë Gowen’s own cottage published in Birmingham Home & Garden, the couple gave her a call in March of 2021. “It was a really drab time for everyone,” says Zoë. The pandemic felt endless, and Laura was itching to get away somewhere warm and sunny. “I could not do neutral grays anymore,” says Laura. Plus, the soon-to-be family of five was bursting at the seams in their Homewood cottage. It was more than time for a change. When the couple found their new home, a recently done design-build by Davis Construction in the flats of Crestline, they decided to bring in the sunshine. “I couldn’t get to Palm Beach, so Zoë brought it to me,” Laura says.

Place setting
When entertaining, Laura and Carson put a lot of effort into setting a beautiful table, but not much else. “We are at the point where everyone is busy with kids, but we still like to get together with friends and eat takeout,” says Laura. For this setting, they went all out with a pair of pink Flower Candles from El Shoppo and a newly made runner from instagram shop @shopthevintagecloth. “There’s no better complement to the room,” says Zoë.

“The Penkavas closed on the house in April, and July was our deadline to have the house shipshape for baby Wilson’s arrival,” recalls Zoë. All of the bones were in place: the finishes, the cabinetry, the layout. The only thing it lacked was personalization.

Living room
“I kept the furnishings pretty simple because I like to leave room for people to really live,” says Zoë, who filled it with a pair of extra-long white sofas, a vintage Ming coffee table found at Chelsea Antiques, and some side tables. The personality layers in via a Persian revival rug from Paige Albright Orientals. “The yellows connect with the same colors on the porch,” Zoë says.Pillows were sourced from Quadrille and Casa Branca.

“This is the perfect home for our phase of life. The open floorplan flows exactly right. There’s a huge kitchen island and an equally huge back porch. There’s always someone for my kids to play with, and this house understands Crestline’s open-door policy.”

— Laura Penkava

Furniture lead times were gridlocked by the pandemic, so the Penkavas and Zoë elected to get as creative as possible to expedite the decorating. “We prioritized what was worth the wait and what we could work around,” says Zoë. There was no avoiding a new set of comfortable living room seating. An order for all-white sofas and chairs went in immediately. “Carson didn’t believe me that stain-proof fabric really works,” says Zoë. “He asked to borrow my swatches and performed ‘stain experiments’ on them. They really have held up.” Carson affirms the fact three years later.

Front porch
Foyer
Family on patio
(Left) Poppy, the Penkavas’ “fierce” guard dog, watches over the welcoming front terrace, a very coveted Crestline exterior feature. (Center) ‘Sasa’ wallpaper in celery from Meg Braff Designs makes a punchy first impression to guests. “The geometric lantern and the Rush House Monterey round rug echo the paper’s pattern,” says Zoë, who also notes that the antique family chest keeps the decorating rooted into its traditional Crestline locale.(Right) Carson holds Wilson, while Laura (in an El Shoppo dress) sits on the sofa with Charlie and Miller.

The rest of the decorating plan unraveled around two judiciously chosen Meg Braff Designs wallpapers for the foyer and dining room. Bold paint choices in adjoining rooms accent both wallcoverings. The decorator also upscaled the lighting throughout the house to complement the youthful new look.

Patio
Zoë’s fail-proof porch formula never disappoints: comfortable wicker seating, a plush rug like this one from English Village Lane, Peter Dunham’s Fig Leaf fabric, and plenty of shade. “No one will sit for long in the full sun,” she says. “If your outdoor area isn’t covered, get a large umbrella.”

Next, the Penkavas invested in a mix of rugs to ground different rooms with some splurges from Paige Albright Orientals, chic natural weaves from Rush House, and saturated runners from English Village Lane. “Laura and Carson have a great eye and appreciation for rugs,” Zoë says. “It was really fun to help them piece together a varied collection.”

Kitchen
Home office
(Left) Just a few graphic touches amp up the all-white kitchen. The custom, blue-and-green runner from English Village Lane and a mix of artwork by Frank Phillips’ sit right alongside the kids’ pieces. (Right) “Laura’s home office is relegated to the mudroom/laundry room, but we made it fun with her desk chair makeover,” Zoë says of the graphic candy-pink fabric. Laura adds to the playful scheme with a rotating gallery of her children’s artwork.

After that, the rest of the plan fell into place with antiques, family pieces, original art such as the photograph of the zebra in the dining room (an image captured on the couple’s honeymoon in Africa), and a smattering of cool vintage finds, Zoë also sprinkled in a few just-do-it, wild ideas such as the $99 dining room light fixture from ChineseLanterns.com. “I decided that you only live once, so why not try it?” says Laura. “While we may have been a bit dubious at first, we ended up loving everything.”

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Sarah Moore Revitalizes a Classic Hollywood Home with Bold Hues

By
Paige Townley
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Subtle Sophistication
To enrichen the sitting room’s green walls even more, Sarah added yellow draperies. Pillows feature cinnamon red flange to pull out the subtle red in the pattern. Varying wood tones include the burlwood coffee table, bamboo end tables, a pair of walnut chests, and a vintage, cane back chair. Botanical artwork from local artist Laurel-Dawn Latshaw offers contrast. Photography by Jean Allsopp

When Sarah Moore heard the three little words all designers dream of hearing from their clients—I love color—she did what any designer would do: She went all in. The mission became blending the homeowners’ desire for color and penchant for patterns into the design of an existing Tudor cottage in Hollywood. “The bones of the home were beautiful with a great layout, original woodwork, and vaulted ceilings, but it was all very traditional,” Sarah explains. “When my client said she wanted to bring color in, I knew we could do something fun with this house.”

The fun began by transitioning a main focal point of the home, the living room’s built-in bookcases, from neutral to bright blue (Farrow & Ball’s Oval Room Blue No. 850).

(LEFT) Spirited Space: Sarah didn’t want the dining room to feel too serious so she was strategic with her accessory choices. She started with a playful iron chandelier in a tulip pattern from Visual Comfort and followed it up with the addition of oversized lamps displaying a fun pom-pom pattern. Above the fireplace—which was originally a dark stone she had painted white—Sarah hung a fun abstract by Birmingham artist Kayce Hughes. (MIDDLE) Colorful Combination: Formal dinnerware was never on the table for this dining room. Sarah chose mix-and-match dishes featuring shades of pink from Shop ALKMY to outfit the table and combined them with bamboo flatware and simple white napkins. “This room is so bright and happy that we needed to keep it playful and fun,” she says. (RIGHT) Eye-Catching Corridor: While the entry is small, it makes a strong, cheerful statement thanks to the pale blue-and-green palette. Here, Sarah painted a cane table in ‘Acanthus’ by Sherwin-Williams and filled its shelf with ginger jars from Antiques on Linden. In the hallway beyond, Sarah selected a blue grasscloth featuring a floral pattern by Alex Conroy Textiles.
Living Large: With the bold blue on the built-ins and lanterns (see page 52), Sarah chose to leave much of the living room neutral so that it would remain a relaxing space that doesn’t overstimulate. She covered the walls with Benjamin Moore’s ‘White Dove’ and chose a cream sofa in a performance fabric to keep daily living stress-free. The sofa is extra long to fit the grand scale of the room but is narrow enough to allow for oversized chaise lounges. The salmon shade of the lounges offers another bold spot of color. Sofa pillows feature two different floral patterns by Peter Dunham Textiles and Quadrille. Patterned pillows on the chaises bring in some of the deep green from the sitting room wall color. For artwork, Sarah chose an oversized butterfly diptych with a predominately black scheme. “The room needed something dark and heavy,” she says. A rug saturated in soft hues sits on top of a sisal for a dose of subtle color.

Sarah carried the same hue into the dining room, using it to trim out the Cowtan & Tout grasscloth wallpaper, and then played off the cheerful shade in the sitting room with complementary colors in mustard yellow drapes and moody green walls (Farrow & Ball’s Green Smoke No. 47).

(LEFT) Lightening Up: The kitchen featured a lot of dark wood, so Sarah lightened up the homeowners’ existing breakfast table with white paint. Custom slipcovers with scalloped skirts are a playful addition to the pale gray chairs, and the mustard hue on the fabric corresponds to the adjacent sitting room. Sarah also added the light brass chandelier as well as the blue-printed café curtains in an Alexis Walters fabric. (MIDDLE) United Front: To make sure the existing kitchen felt cohesive with the other spaces, Sarah added small touches. For example, she brought a pair of pendants and had custom shades made to match in the same fabric used on the ottoman in the living room. Sarah swapped out the cabinet hardware, going with brass knobs for a bright pop against the dark wooden cabinets. (RIGHT) Bedroom Bliss: The daughters’ shared room features a Galbraith & Paul fabric on the draperies that features subtle shades of green, yellow, and blue. Sarah played off the colors of the fabric around the room, such as the tufted blue ottoman, the trim color (Benjamin Moore’s ‘Woodlawn Blue’), blue duvet cover, and the green pom pom trim added to the window treatments. Touches of pink come through in the chandelier and euro shams. To accommodate both beds, Sarah designed a custom bookcase painted its interior yellow for an extra spark.

In addition to color, Sarah layered in beautiful patterns in almost every space, from the perfectly placed pillows in the sitting and living rooms to the can’t-miss hallway wallpaper. “It’s bright and happy but at the same time very sophisticated,” Sarah says. “This home is now lively and full of color and pattern while still maintaining its classic elements. That’s what makes it really work.”

Balancing Color + Pattern

For color and pattern to work together, it’s important to keep two requirements in mind—balance and scale. “Everything can’t be patterned or brightly colored,” Sarah says. “The busier something gets, the less you actually notice any of it.” Here are Sarah’s tips to pull off the best balancing act:

Size matters. When incorporating prints and patterns, select some in all sizes. A large print works best with a small or medium print or even a stripe. Mix and match pattern types too. For example, pair geometric prints with floral patterns. “If the patterns are too similar in look, they will compete,” Sarah says.

Find the right tone. Just as with patterns, make sure colors aren’t too similar in tone. For example, if using blue and green, go with a darker blue and lighter green or a greyish blue and Kelly green. Or perhaps keep one tone cool and bring in a warmer tone. “If you do want to stay with just cool or warm tones, at last do varying shades of depths in your chosen colors,” says Sarah.

Stay negative. Let there be some negative space so the eye has a place to rest. For instance, choose solid velvet pillows on a patterned chair, or select a solid sofa if the room features patterned drapes and pillows. “After all, if everything is a showstopper, nothing is a showstopper,” Sarah says.

Start slow. If new to color or pattern, start bringing them into a space with items like lamps, pillows, and accessories. “Those are easy, more budget-friendly places to get your feet wet,” Sarah says. “Then you can build from there.”

Start small. “A small space is a great place to introduce a fun wallpaper because you get more bang for your buck,” says Sarah. “You can do a funky print since you’re not doing much of it.”

Meet Sarah Moore

Sarah Moore has always had her own sense of style. In fact, it’s what propelled her down the interior design path at an early age. “I came home from school one day in 10th grade and told my family I was going to be an interior designer,” says Sarah, who made good on that statement and graduated from Auburn University with a degree in interior design.

After working for another designer and even a commercial architect in Nashville for a few years, Sarah established Sarah Catherine Design, LLC, in 2015. Just three years later, she brought her expertise to Birmingham, where she’s been creating fresh takes on classic Southern style ever since. She also launched her own home accessory online shop, Sweet Home by SCD, last year. “I bring my talent and expertise, but a critical part is listening and getting to know the client to understand what feels like home to them,” Sarah says. “My goal is to create interiors that reflect my clients and how they live.”

Resources:

Designer: Sarah Moore, Sarah Catherine Design
Sarah’s home décor shop for accessories: Sweet Home by SCD, [email protected];
IG: @sweethomebyscdNook

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Winter Gardening: Tips for Keeping Your Garden Thriving

By
Cathy Still McGowin
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We stepped inside Diana Jones’s backyard garden and greenhouse to learn about the best ways to keep your garden going in the winter months.

Greenhouse
Diana’s 12- x 18-foot greenhouse is a kit from Santa Barbara Greenhouses assembled by husband Stephen along with a brick layer and a team from Cahaba Heights Hardware.
Photography by Mary Fehr

One look at Diana Jones’s backyard and her passion for gardening is evident. Raised beds, stacks of terra-cotta pots, and a shed for garden tools connect via paths. In the summer, Diana and her husband harvest a variety of peppers, tomatoes, and herbs, gifting themselves and neighbors with straight-from-the-vine produce. In addition, there is an abundance of perennials, ferns, citrus, and flowering shrubs planted here and there in the almost one-acre yard.

Greenhouse
Herbs are relatively easy to grow, making them accessible to both novice and experienced gardeners. Don’t have a greenhouse? Try placing the plants in a sunny window. Some of Diana’s favorites to grow include basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and salvia, which is actually a member of the herb family.

Diana, a master gardener, also propagates salvias for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens spring and fall plant sales while serving in what members fondly call the “Herb Army.” So what is a green thumb to do come winter? For Diana, the answer was a backyard greenhouse where she can winter fragile plants and keep the fresh greens coming.

Herbs
Herbs

Seeking Greenhouse Inspiration?

Birmingham offers several public greenhouses to tour or shop. A favorite includes the conservatory at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The Lord & Burnham-designed building was erected in 1962 and houses tropical plants, desert species, and citrus. Leaf & Petal at The Summit offers a vast greenhouse brimming with hanging plants, ferns, and gift items. Inspired by Petersham Nurseries in London, the 4,000-square-foot space is decorated with cottage finds including reclaimed wood, antique doors, paint-chipped chairs, and farmhouse tables for use and display. Shoppe, a garden and gift store in Forest Park, continues to delight visitors with its English greenhouse filled with ferns, topiaries, orchids, and more.

“I always use fresh herbs in pretty much everything I cook. It’s rare that I have to buy any supplemental herbs from the store.”

— Diana Jones
Greenhouse
Greenhouse

Made to Order

Looking for a bespoke greenhouse similar to the one at Shoppe in Forest Park? Hartley Botanic Greenhouses is an 85-year-old, award-winning company based in England. Known for creating greenhouses with enduring strength, quality, and performance, the company offers structures that are individually crafted to personalized specifications. Look for designs ranging from Victorian to modern. For more about their designs, visit hartley-botanic.com.

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Colorful Southern Style: Inside Varnish and Elliston’s New Collection

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
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The founders of Varnish Collection and Elliston House turned Instagram admiration into a colorful collaboration by pairing fabrics and wicker pieces for a debut home collection.

Left to Right: Mary Lovett Beck, Morgan Hood, Anna Garcia, Ally Holderness
Photography by Morgan Duke photography

The Collaboration: House Capsule
Despite what many think, there are some good things that can come from being glued to social media—or as Morgan Hood, the co-founder of Greensboro-based Elliston House, says, “the beautiful world of Instagram.” Morgan and her business partner Ally Holderness went to the Kips Bay New York showhouse and posted about a wicker chair they loved from Varnish Collection. When the co-owners of Varnish, sisters Anna Garcia and Mary Lovett Beck, saw the post and responded to Morgan and Ally, a mutual admiration society was formed.

The two companies teamed up for a winning collection of handcrafted wicker furniture from Varnish and fabrics from Elliston. “We had been exploring the introduction of colored pieces to our line and had recently discovered this Italian paint that imparts a velvety, luxurious finish,” says Anna. “We decided to give it a try, but we needed a fabric partner for the cushions. All four of us were soon on the same page and sending ideas back and forth.” Adds Mary Lovett, “There was this natural synergy.”

“Brainstorming with other creative entrepreneurs is incredibly helpful. Both of our companies have launched online within the past year, and we have faced similar challenges. Having someone to experience the highs and lows with has been invaluable.”

— Ally Holderness

The lively prints from Elliston perfectly complement the new wicker colors. For example, a delicate floral on a pink background pairs with a rich brown occasional chair, and a French blue wicker sofa sports a joyful bird print with citrus accents. But the collaborations didn’t stop with the furniture pieces. “We hosted a party together at High Point, along with rug purveyor Angie Burge of English Village Lane,” says Ally. “People were coming in and asking if we were doing it again next year so they could join in. Our brands complement each other so well, and the fact that we are female entrepreneurs with new businesses also brings us together.”

“While we are undeniably rooted in tradition, we like to say that this is ‘not your grandmother’s wicker.’ Our goal is to give a fresh look to this traditional artform, whether through new silhouettes, new products, or unexpected styles and colors.”

— Mary Lovett Beck

Backstory: Elliston House

As many new ventures go, Elliston House came from a place of frustration. Ally was helping her good friend Morgan decorate a nursery in her home. “We were looking at fabrics, and they were all so expensive,” says Morgan. “We didn’t want to pay $200-plus per yard or full-service designer fees, which got us thinking and scheming.” Morgan’s husband had connections in the furniture industry which helped, as did the women’s shared love of fashion, color, and pattern. Elliston House debuted in February 2023 with a collection of five fabrics in multiple colorways. The founders continue to come up with prints which an artist renders, and then everything is digitally printed to order in South Carolina. Any print can also be purchased as a wallpaper.

“Our goal was a sweet spot on price per yard and also to be more of a lifestyle brand than a traditional fabric house,” says Ally. “Our social media shows us as moms and that home life can be wonderful but messy! We do a lot of the photography and experimentation in our individual houses.” As a result, Elliston House will debut a second collection in February 2024.

Design Talk with Ally & Morgan of Elliston House

On creating a successful room: Color, pattern, and texture! The mix of varying hues and varying scales alongside something new and something old makes a room feel curated and well-loved. Having rooms that feel lived-in and special is a delicate balance that can make a home feel personal. A rattan chair in the corner passed down from your great-grandmother next to a vintage lamp atop a modern console with an abstract piece of art makes a space feel layered. If you love it, your guests will too!

On mixing colors and patterns: Paying attention to scale and motif are the most important things. It’s always critical for a room to have a mix of large scale, medium scale, small scale, and solid patterns. For example, mixing florals with geometrics and stripes feels unexpected and collected. After that, there are no rules! When it comes to color, we are big fans of picking an overall “theme” for a room (i.e. warm and cozy, moody and quirky, clean and crisp, etc.) and pulling colors that evoke those feelings.

On Southern influences: “We both grew up around heirloom antiques and colorful textiles. We believe that more is more when it comes to decorating a home and are always looking to bring in that next layer to a space, whether through textiles or art and furniture passed down for generations. Our patterns have a very traditional and Southern feel to them mixed with updated elements and colors so as to shine in any room. Having a home that always feels inviting for guests of all ages is important to us, and we want our fabrics and wallpapers to be familiar yet unexpected.

Backstory: Varnish Collection

Mary Lovett Beck and Anna Garcia are two of five sisters known in Columbus, Georgia, as the “Varner Sisters”—hence the name of their company. The sisters grew up with antiques, many of which were well-made wicker pieces that filled the porches belonging to their family and friends. One of the sisters’ favorite pastimes growing up was rearranging the furniture at home, which they continue to do today. “And we pass family pieces around and around and around,” says Anna. “In fact, we have a rule that you have to consult with everyone in the family before getting rid of anything!”

The sisters had longed dreamed of working together, and a chance encounter gave them an idea. Mary Lovett, an interior designer, was sourcing for projects and came across a wicker chair from India that was hand-woven in natural materials. It reminded her of those in her childhood home. Introductions were made, and the business was launched in 2023 with an aim to showcase the beauty and versatility of wicker for interiors.

Design Talk with Mary Lovett & Anna of Varnish Collection

On how to use wicker: As Mark Sikes says, “Wicker always works!” In our own words, a natural fiber like rattan is needed in every room. It is not only a part of the layering process but can also make a big impact as a personality piece or piece of art itself. We love the idea of a bench in an entryway, an occasional or desk chair in the corner, and a drink table or ottoman thrown in the mix. We are continuing to adjust our line to be sure we have pieces that work for the scale of most rooms in the house.

On what makes a successful room: “We believe that every room should be layered with old and new, soft and hard, loud and quiet. Every room should have something meaningful, something interesting, even something weird or unexpected. Your home should be a reflection of your interests. When we find a customer who feels this same way, we have an instant almost familial connection (sounds funny, but true). We have not found a room that could not benefit from a dash of wicker in some shape or form.”

On Southern influences: Our childhood was synonymous with wicker. On the screened porch on our beloved family farm outside of Columbus is where we sat with our three other sisters, friends, family, and the many visitors we had. It was where memories were made and values were passed down. We learned to live in the moment and love our people while seated on those pieces passed down from our great-grandmother. Our early memories of “interior design” were antiquing with my mom and aunts on every trip,
rearranging rooms and layouts (all the time!), and constantly layering.

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Three Times the Charm: Elegant Bath Redesigns by Lauren Murphy

By
Cathy Still McGowin
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Designer Lauren Murphy transforms three bathrooms for one client, each with its own defining style.

For cost savings, the designer kept the bath layouts the same and splurged on finishes. The only changes were the cabinets and storage in each space to make them more functional. The main plumbing change in the master involved swapping the built-in tub with a freestanding tub to create a more spacious feel. Photography by JEAN ALLSOPP
BEFORE

For Lauren Murphy’s clients, a home renovation began with the kitchen, primary bath, and powder room. Next came a downstairs renovation followed by the Jack & Jill bath. Each expresses its own personality, just like the people that use them.

In the primary bath, the designer aimed for a timeless look that would also serve as a relaxing escape. “We selected white marble and a custom natural stain for the oak cabinets to give it an elegant yet warm feel,” Lauren says. “I also dressed up the space with the molding details to perfectly frame up each section on the wall. Then I added some drama by painting the molding in a semi-gloss sheen.”

(LEFT) The final touch to the primary bath was the custom floral watercolors Lauren commissioned from artist Margaret Anne Lee to fit the trimmed-out spaces around the tub. (MIDDLE) “Since the powder is such a small space, we wanted it to be dramatic,” says Lauren. She chose the wallpaper for its dark background and metallic details. Dark countertops enhance the mood. (RIGHT) Before renovation.

The vanity light fixture was early on in the selection process. “I drew the plan for the cabinets and the molding around it to ensure that it was framed perfectly with the built-in mirrors,” Lauren says.

In lieu of traditional sconces, Lauren hung pendant lights above each sink. To modernize the space, she replaced round sinks with squares and added a new countertop.
Lauren Murphy
BEFORE

The Jack & Jill bath is designed to serve boy/girl twins. “The space had to be a style that they both would enjoy growing up in,” Lauren says. To strike a balance, the designer opted for blues and greens. “The celery-green floor tile was the first thing we fell in love with, and it drove the design,” she says. “It needed to be a timeless finish, but we wanted to include a fun pop of color for the kids.” For fabrics, she tapped into a butterfly print, a choice that may be a little more girly but is grounded because of the color tones.

Resources:

Interior design: Lauren Murphy Design Floor plans: Lauren Murphy Design Builder, cabinet design, and construction: Twin Cabinets and Twin Construction Hardware: Brandino Brass Tile/backsplash: Triton Stone Fixtures: Southern Bath and Kitchen

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Dream Bathrooms: Inspiring Renovations and Refreshing Designs

By
Cathy Still McGowin
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Luxurious appointments, Fine Finishes, classic looks, and fresh color and pattern are the stuff of these baths, both new and renovated. Check out the dreamy spaces on the following pages to inspire your own at-home retreat.

Architect Matt Costanzo transformed a recess in his daughter’s bathroom into a glamourous retreat by adding an arched opening, dainty chandelier, crystal sconces, and plenty of gold accents with the perfect punch of blue in custom cabinets.

Resources:

(THIS IMAGE) Architect: Matt Costanzo Cabinetry: Ted Gibbs, Gibbs Construction Cabinet color: Farrow & Ball’s Cook’s Blue Sconces: Visual Comfort Faucet and Floor Tile: Fixtures & Finishes Marble: Surface One Hardware: Brandino Brass

Sumner Starling
Matt Costanzo

Sometimes, a bath is so outdated that it’s best to strip it to the frame and just start over. That’s what architect Matt Costanzo did when renovating this bath along with designers Sumner Starling and Anne Hurley with Starling Interiors. The clients needed more space, and the only way to achieve that was by rewriting the floorplan. In additon to relocating plumbing, Matt says, “Closets were moved to the interior and walls were taken down to let in more natural light,” The new configuration also allowed them to create a separation from the bedroom and bath with a dressing hall and closets.

Using a neutral backdrop with paint choices, tile, and countertops, the designers added contrast with white oak cabinets and flush white oak doors. The end result? A beautiful retreat that is both dramatic and inviting.

Resources:

Architect: Matt Costanzo Interior Design: Sumner Starling & Anne Hurley, Starling Interiors Construction: Franks Building Company Cabinets: Parsons Cabinetry Tile & Plumbing: Fixtures & Finishes Hardware: Brandino Brass Countertops: Triton Stone Group Lighting: Visual Comfort Paint Color: Seapearl by Benjamin Moore

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Unveiling Elegance: The 2024 BH&G Inspiration Home in Homewood

By
BHG Staff
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Classic Craftsman – Homewood, Alabama
Opening November 2024

Homewood continues to be one of the most desirable communities in Birmingham. Developed in the early 20th century, the city offers homes that range from Spanish Colonial to ranchers to Tudors, and of course traditional bungalows and Craftsman-style homes. For the architect and developer of this home, it was only natural to want to revisit a classic look. “We chose to design a Craftsman-style house to pay homage to the more traditional character of original Homewood houses,” says architect Jared Bussey. “The Craftsman/Arts & Crafts style can be roomy and modern on the inside while still maintaining an appropriate scale and proportion along the street.”

The plan consists of a 4,165-square-foot house with five bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths. An inviting front porch leads to a gracious foyer and an open stairway to the second floor. The main level hosts a generously-sized living area with a fireplace that seamlessly connects to the kitchen. A focal point of the home, the kitchen features a 48-inch range, refrigerator and freezer towers, and a spacious island, complemented by an attached working pantry/scullery equipped with prep space, cabinets, sink, oven, and built-in microwave. A convenient wet bar links the living and dining areas.

The primary suite on the first floor boasts exclusive amenities such as a dedicated washer and dryer, a niche for coffee/beverages, and a steam shower, in addition to separate vanities, a freestanding tub, and an expansive walk-in closet. The second floor houses the main laundry room adjacent to the other bedrooms.

Out back, a screened porch equipped with a fireplace and built-in bar connects to a two-car carport. Additionally, the dining room offers access to the screened porch via a large sliding door unit, enhancing the seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.

Meet the Team

Builder: WILLOW HOMES
Willow Homes began over 10 years ago, winning numerous awards and accolades in professional programs. Willow Homes strives to create affordable custom luxury in many of the most upscale home markets in Birmingham including Homewood, Vestavia, Mountain Brook, Avondale, and surrounding areas.

The Willow Homes team consists of tenured project managers, award-winning plan designers, and artistic home designers, all working diligently to bring custom homes or renovations to life—on time and on budget. They also have the experience and resources to coordinate furniture, rugs, artwork, and window coverings with a turn-key installation through
Willow Interiors.

Architect: Jared Bussey, founder and principal of Architectural Cooperative
Architectural Cooperative is a full-service architectural design firm located in Homewood, Alabama. Registered in eight states around the Southeast, the firm provides high-quality design services that are catered specifically to each project and each client. The firm understands that the architect’s task is to meet a client’s needs while also contributing to the overall beauty and sustainability of a street, community, and city.

Benefiting Trinity’s Outreach Hub

Feed, Clothe, Teach, Grow and Connect
The vision of Trinity’s Outreach Hub is to welcome neighbors in need with radical hospitality, prioritizing dignity, provision, and empowerment as they offer assistance, build relationships and create connections. The Outreach Hub offers tangible relief in the form of food, clothing, household items, and utility assistance to those struggling with financial insecurity and displacement, especially refugees, asylum seekers and migrants.

trinitybirmingham.com

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