When it comes to renovating a ranch house, many homeowners choose to add a second story to create a more aesthetically pleasing exterior while also gaining more square footage. But these Homewood owners found plenty of space in their newly purchased house—and a fabulous 2-acre lot to go with it. What they did need, however, was the expert eye of a creative architect to give the outdated home the curb appeal to match its beautiful surroundings. Thanks to the talents of Bill Moore of Carlisle Moore Architects, they got their wish—and so much more.
“The general layout of the original floorplan was pretty good,” says Bill. “The majority of the perimeter walls and many of the rooms were configured well. We just needed to push and pull some spaces a bit.” The roof, on the other hand, was in need of some major attention. “It had a very low slope and was barely visible from the front yard because the home sits on a high point of the property,” Bill says. To give the exterior some prominence, the architect completely reworked the roof and added a large front porch with about 400 feet of covered space. He also filled in an alcove on the back side of the house to create a laundry room, mudroom, and rear entry vestibule. Modifying the roofline proved beneficial inside as well. “We were able to take advantage of those tall volumes with vaulted ceilings in the family room and master bedroom,” Bill says. “And we raised the ceiling in the kitchen by a foot.”
An antiqued mirror wall reflects the custom white oak entry door with leaded glass lites and a center-mounted antique brass knob.
Throughout the renovation process, the architect worked closely with builder Trey Goldstein and interior designer Emory Ratliff. “Our approach was collaborative from the beginning,” says Bill. “We routinely leaned on each other’s input as the design progressed.” Adds Emory, “Bill and I worked very closely with the homeowners on the details and materials that would create a current look without feeling trendy. They wanted to keep the interiors light, fresh, and durable with a strong connection to the outdoor living spaces.” To accomplish that goal, the design team reoriented and expanded the kitchen to create an easy flow between the family room, dining room, and the outdoor entertaining areas. Hidden doors in the cabinetry provide convenient access to the mudroom at one end and the butler’s pantry at the other.
On the back of the house, a screened outdoor room overlooks the pool area. The design team maintained the unique curved shape of the pool but transformed the surrounding terrace with the addition of lounging, grilling, and gathering spaces. “This home is all about entertaining, which is what the owners love to do,” says Emory. “Whether inside, on the front porch, or beside the pool, there is plenty of space for guests to spread out and relax.”
A white oak island topped with marble offers plenty of prep space and seating. Antique brass hardware and plumbing fixtures add a bit of sheen to the space.A Dutch door leads to the screened outdoor room that includes a new fireplace with limestone surround, built-in infrared heaters, and ceiling fans for year-round enjoyment.Lacquered in Hale Navy (Benjamin Moore), the butler’s pantry offers a respite from the light colors throughout the rest of the house. White oak herringbone flooring also sets the space apart. The pantry includes a full-height wine fridge, a concealed ice maker, and storage for serving pieces and bar accoutrements.In the family room, the design team retained the existing firebox and chimney but added a new limestone surround and fireballs. Vertically-oriented wood walls emphasize the height of the newly vaulted ceiling.The mudroom serves multiple purposes with lockers for the kids, adjustable shelving, a built-in dog bed, and recessed dog bowls.Sheer curtains allow morning light to filter in yet provide privacy in the master bathroom. A brass tub filler tops the clean-lined, freestanding tub.
RESOURCES: Architect: Bill Moore, Carlisle Moore Architects, Inc., carlislemoorearchitects.com Interior designer: Emory Ratliff, Emory Ratliff Interiors, 205.807.6586 Builder: Trey Goldstein, Cotton Construction, cottonconstructioninc.com Landscape architect: Doug Travis, Liberty Environmental Contractors, landscapesbyliberty.com Realtor: Bradley Perlis Group, LAH Real Estate, bradleyperlis.com Pool: Shoemaker Pool Service, shoemakerpools.com Security/sound: Andy Evans & Matthew Estes, 205.266.7983
Meet President of Classic Homes Chad Calhoun. Classic Homes is a member of the Russell Lands, Inc., family of businesses that specializes in building lake homes in Russell Lands On Lake Martin neighborhoods, as well as the 2019 Inspiration Home.
Do you have a favorite finish or design detail that you like to incorporate in your work that we can expect to see here? We really like to incorporate the use of natural stone and heavy timbers in our designs whenever we can, as the they really work together to enhance the overall look and feel of the home. Those materials really help bring the outside in, and give the home a feeling that it belongs there. We also really emphasize the outdoor spaces in our homes, as that is where most folks will spend their time. The screened porch on this particular home is my personal favorite, with its vaulted ceilings, heavy cedar beams, fireplace, and connection to the lakeside terrace.
How do you create a lake home today that will continue to be relevant in the years to come? One thing we really try to do in our homes is try and capture the purpose of a “true” lake home. Lake homes are places for families to come together, enjoy each other, and make lasting memories. To that end, we emphasize the spaces where people traditionally gather – living spaces, porches, and other outdoor areas. We try and include features that help make these spaces more accommodating, but in the end, it’s the interaction between friends and family that really make them come alive – and that is timeless. We try and use classic, neutral colors as much as possible but also introduce some unique features that really bring the design to the next level, yet are not as “trendy” as you might see in a more urban setting. We spend a little more time on the fine details, keeping the longevity of the home in mind – again, we like to think that these homes can be passed down through the generations, and we build them with that in mind.
Favorite travel destination and why? I had the opportunity to spend 10 days in Alaska a number of years ago, and still talk about the experiences I had during that trip. Being able to experience the outdoors in that environment, with its beautiful mountains, abundant streams, and vast landscape is something I will never forget.
Favorite restaurant? I would have to say that the SpringHouse restaurant at Lake Martin is hard to beat. The food is great and the atmosphere/building is truly one of a kind. I’m a fan of big wood beams and rock walls, and that place has them all!
Learn more about Classic Homes by visiting their website here. Click here to learn more about the 2019 BHG Inspiration Home.
Barbara Williams, Christopher Rankin and Chris Magidson
We talked with Christopher Rankin, gallery manager of the home furnishings and design business, Stock & Trade, for an inside look at the living room design of the 2019 Inspiration Home at The Willows, a new Russell Lands On Lake Martin neighborhood.
Tell us a little about the space you designed for the 2019 Inspiration Home and from where you drew inspiration. CR: Elegant Serenity – Inspired by the beautiful tranquil lakeside view, we focused on creating a space where form meets function, rustic meets sophisticated, and comfort meets style…an elegant space, casual enough to relax and enjoy time spent with family and friends. We began with a neutral color pallet using textures in linen and leather to compliment the natural architectural elements of the wood ceilings and stone fireplace. Accents of art and textiles, in soft blues and greens, add further visual interest, and help create a seamless visual transition from the view outside into the home. Metal finishes on occasional tables and decorative accents in bronze and gold tones add additional texture and warmth to the space.
Do you have a favorite finish or design detail that you like to incorporate in your work that we can expect to see here? CR: We love warm metals in tones of bronze and a soft golds. We use them a lot in occasional tables, lighting, and accessories. We love antiqued mirror finishes as well. Both add another element and texture to the room that’s clean and elegant, without being cold.
IG accounts you follow? CR: Our design team’s personal IG lists are pretty extensive. We follow several of the vendors that we source product from, as well as, our favorite local designers, architects, artisans, and design publications. We have an incredible amount of talent in Birmingham and all of the cities we’ve expanded into. These lists grow larger with each new location we open. On a regional and national level, we are drawn to those whose work is a mix of casual elegance, clean lines, sophisticated style, and a serene comfortable aesthetic. We love the work of Bobby McAlpine, Ray Booth, Darryl Carter, Suzanne Kassler, and Susan Ferrier, just to name a few.
What kinds of things can we expect to find in your shop? CR: Our showrooms are filled with pretty much everything one would need to furnish their entire home. We stock a wide selection of upholstery, case goods, linens, rugs, lighting, art, accessories, etc. If we don’t have it in stock, we have an almost limitless list of items available to order.
Aside from your own store, where do you shop locally for your own retail therapy? CR: We love to shop our local fellow home interior stores. Birmingham has some beautifully curated showrooms to explore and find inspiration. We also love shopping for art, antiques and unique finds in shops like Roman Brantley, Lolo French Antiques, and Architectural Heritage. On a larger scale, a trip to Scott’s in Atlanta is definitely a great reason to take a weekend road trip. We love a Saturday morning adventure to Pepper Place. It’s a great way to spend several hours. And, perusing the shops and galleries in the loft district downtown usually provides some great retail therapy as well.
Learn more about Stock and Trade by visiting their showroom in Homewood, AL or visiting their website here.
Click here to learn more about the 2019 BHG Inspiration Home.
We sit down with Kelly Seibels, of Seibels Cottage, whose team designed the guest cottage of the 2019 Inspiration Home.
Tell us a little about the space you are designing for the 2019 Inspiration Home and from where you are drawing inspiration. KS: Seibels was tasked with laying out the upstairs guest cottage, as a casual living, sleeping area, perfect for a guest family with kids to stay for a weekend or a group of teenagers to hang separately. We designed all new pieces built in our shop, just for Haven and it’s architectural concept. It’s fun, comfortable, and inviting…just the way we like it! We strive to make our spaces admirable yet functional with two twin beds, a daybed, a centerpiece for floor lounging, lots of pillows and a desk for reading or getting work done while relaxing with a lake view. This space even has a kitchenette and a dining table for a quick lunch in-between boat rides! We kept it fun by adding color through accents and pillows that can be thrown on the floor and still put to use! The rest of the house may be more formal, whereas this room you can’t mess up! All adults, kids, teenagers and dogs welcome!
Do you have a favorite finish or design detail that you like to incorporate in your work that we can expect to see here? KS: The rug we chose for this space is from Annie Selke, and is one of their brand new items! We love Dash and Albert rugs, and pride ourselves with a great display and wonderful options allowing clients and designers to check them out and see them in their space before purchasing. We believe it to be some of the best rugs on the market, and use them in most projects we do, as they have something for everyone!
What kinds of things can we expect to find in your shop?
KS: In our shop you’ll find everything from our popular Swinging Beds, Bunk beds and an array of custom built pieces, to casual sofas and swivel chairs. You can always find great gifts customized for the area lakes, the beach or mountains. Our designers are always here to help lay out your special place, from upholstery lines to lighting, linens and accessories. Most of all, we want you to relax and enjoy the experience. We hope you feel like you’re at the lake or mountains overtime you come through the door, and if not we hope you are inspired to be there! Bring the kids, bring the dog, and get a free cold drink and popcorn grown and harvested in Mississippi.
Aside from your own store, where do you shop locally for your own retail therapy? KS: At Home, Three Sheets, Marks Outdoors, Caliber and Orvis
Learn more about Seibels Cottage by visiting their website here.
Click here to learn more about the 2019 BHG Inspiration Home.
Mary Lauren McBride of Mary Lauren McBride Interiors aims to ensure that the needs and desires of each individual client are met with an individualized approach. The second floor guest bathroom of our Inspiration Home is being designed by Mary Lauren and will encompass tone on tone textures and subtle color, giving the room a serenity with a splash of fun emerging thought art, wall-covering and fabrics. Get to know Mary Lauren and find out more about her design process!
Why do you do what you do? MM: I truly LOVE design and all it entails to achieve a residence or space my clients can truly enjoy- from hosting a party to cooking a good dinner with their family- I aim to give my clients an effortless feeling and a true sense of home, that’s the main reason I love what I do…. Achieving that for my clients is a privilege and task, but I feel honored when people choose our team to achieve this!
Favorite local design resources? MM: Circa, Masion, Patina, Design Supply, Unique Black Sheep & Local Artists
Favorite travel destinations? MM: Anywhere new…I love an adventure and all the feelings of exploring local shops, restaurants and sites… I also look forward to my next trip back!
Trends vs timeless – where do you fall? MM: Timeless, with a small splash of trend…. I air on the more timeless side, but I love to put a few ‘trendy’ or ‘zoomy’ twist on timeless
IG accounts you follow? MM: Paloma Contraras, Habitually Chic, Amelia Handegan, Barbara Westbrook and William McClure
What are some of your favorite unique ways to incorporate rugs into design? MM: I love layering small old rugs on a simple grass rug, I also love grounding a room in a simple, textural rug to give a great understated foundation to a space!
How do you successfully mix patterns and colors? MM: I love texture and subtle color for the most part, which lends itself to easy layering and can also be easily changed. I do love pattern and color if mixed with a ‘restrained’ eye, this is something that definitely stretches me as a designer outside my ‘box’…
Tell us a little about the space you are designing for the Inspiration Home. MM: I am designing a guest bedroom on the second floor. As a lover of the lake, I pictured my husband and I enjoying this room as guests after a long day on the lake. I feel the idea of a retreat and restfulness kept emerging in my scheme. Again, with the tone on tone textures and subtle color, the room is serene but the splash of fun is emerging thought art, wall-covering and fabrics. Overall, I would want guests to love spending time in this room and feel rested and captured with the beauty of lake martin when leaving.
Do you have a design motto you live by? MM: If I don’t love something, I cannot in good conscience present it to my clients… I realize not all projects will fit into my personal design style, however – as a designer, I truly love and appreciate so many styles and aspects of designs. When I and my team love something- it’s easy to sell or present to clients…. I think at the root of any of our design work, you will get true refinement of design presented for a very authentic look.
Learn more about Mary Lauren McBride Interiors by visiting her website here.
Click here to learn more about the 2019 BHG Inspiration Home.
Meet Pandy Agnew of Pandy Agnew Interiors, who is designing the master suite of our Inspiration Home. Pandy has over 30 years experience designing interiors and her shop is packed with a diverse array of unique home decor finds.
Why do you do what you do? PA: I’m an interior decorator because I truly love what I do. I can’t turn it off, it comes from my mind’s eye. Whether it’s indoors or outside, I’m constantly seeing what could be done, how the space could be made better. It’s just what comes naturally to me.
Favorite local design resources? PA: Our own shop is obviously where I do most of my shopping. But all my suppliers shops/warehouses give me great inspiration and new ideas. I really concentrate on each client, they are all so very different. Where they want to go with their personal wants and needs to achieve the look we are after is where I take them.
Go to paint colors? PA: I have found that Sherman Williams Alabaster is a beautiful warm white that works with everything. Urbane Bronze is a warm dark chocolate that I love. These two make beautiful backgrounds for shots of rich color in art and accessories. I’m really attracted to texture, woven anything gives another layer to warmth and feeling of coziness. Wooden beams, floors… natural colors from nature would be my favorites.
Trends vs timeless – where do you fall? PA: Well, since I’ve been doing this for such a long time, it makes me so happy to visit homes I did 20-25 years ago and they still look almost the same. Ever so often I’m asked to refresh a worn rug or add new artwork, so basically I would definitely put myself into timeless.
IG accounts you follow? PA: My Instagram accounts vary. I have a lot of French post/ blogs I follow…love the peaceful style of Sharon Santoni, the quirkiness of “Midlife in Paris.” Velvet and Linen always are great for home and garden. Our own architects from Birmingham are also some of my favorites. We are so fortunate to have such a wealth of talent right here at our doorstep.
What is your favorite space to design? PA: I don’t really have a favorite room to decorate. The home all becomes one to me when working on an entire house, vary and repeat… I say that a lot. I love a room with a view. Trying to compliment the beauty of nature through large open windows without overpowering Mother Nature ‘s beauty is the key. Creating a comfortable, complimentary area is my job.
Tell us a little about the space you are designing for the Inspiration Home. PA: I’m designing an eclectic master suite bordering on contemporary. It’s more of a sophisticated, serene, comfortable space that compliments the view of the lake from the house. A mix of timeless styles, a warm inviting atmosphere, pulled together with pieces that feel like home, and the unique characteristics of a wonderful resort.
Do you have a design motto you live by? PA: Motto, hmmmm . I listen to my clients… I truly just build a space around function and beauty…and making it so comfortable one would rather stay home.
Learn more about Pandy Agnew Interiors by visiting her website here. Click here to learn more about the 2019 BHG Inspiration Home.
Hannah and Matt Benak knew they would soon be ready to start a family, but they also knew that meant there was a big task at hand: finding a new home with more space. After looking all over Birmingham, they stumbled upon a different option just a couple of streets over from their current Vestavia Hills home. “We heard about a double lot for sale that was slated to have two smaller houses on it,” Hannah says. “We left it as one lot because it would allow us to build the home we wanted and still have a big yard for our kids and entertaining.”
With plenty of space to play with, the couple engaged architect Heath Clement to design the home. Their must-have list included an open layout, especially with the main living spaces. “I love to cook, and I don’t want to feel isolated in the kitchen when everyone’s gathered in the living room,” Hannah says. They also wanted a formal dining room and at least three bedrooms upstairs to accommodate out-of-town guests. Heath helped them maximize the square footage, adding ensuite bathrooms for each bedroom to fulfill another wish list item of Matt’s. “It was a great call,” Hannah says. “When we have family in town, everyone has their own space.”
The aesthetics of the home were just as important, as Hannah and Matt both wanted a timeless design that wouldn’t quickly feel dated or trendy. They approached every decision with that mindset, from paint colors to tile, keeping everything as clean and classic as possible. “We didn’t want to look back and regret any of our decisions,” Hannah says.
Creating a neutral palette of whites, creams, soft grays, and blues, along with using tried-and-true materials such as subway tile, Calacatta marble, and white oak beams and floors, Hannah was able to weave in pops of color here and there to reveal her energetic personality. In addition to seeking out design assistance from Caitie Morgan, as well as art and accessories from Laura Vogtle of Design Supply, Hannah also drew from her fashion background, blurring the lines between high and low by mixing antiques with bargain finds. Now the couple not only has aesthetically pleasing (and family friendly) design, but also plenty of space for their son, Teddy, and Yorkshire terrier, Coco. “It’s a thrill to be able to come home to this house every day,” says Hannah. “We worked so hard to get the details just right, and it’s everything we wanted it to be—comfortable, livable, and fun.”
A small passage to the dining room makes a big statement thanks to pecky cypress walls, a gold bench from Design Supply, and a painting by Matthew Mayes—an artist from Hannah’s hometown of Florence, Alabama.The kitchen opens to the living room and features a center island for casual dining and extra storage. Hannah shopped Ferguson for plumbing fixtures, hardware, and appliances.While Hannah chose a neutral color scheme for most rooms, she decided to go bright and colorful with a wallpaper accent wall (Citrus Garden by Schumacher) in the dining room.The living room is fashion forward yet completely functional for a growing family. The upholstered ottoman is easy on toddling kids. Chartreuse chairs, along with artwork by Mary Singleton through Gallery 1930, provide a pop of color.Hannah’s father, a master craftsman and owner of C.E. Black Custom Furniture, built the tiger maple vanity in the hall bath. “It’s my favorite thing in the whole house,” Hannah says. (IG @ceblackcustomfurniture)Hannah wanted a calm, serene master bedroom, which she accomplished with the creams, grays, and soft blues in the bedding, pillows, and rug. The artwork is by Jennifer Gibbs through Gallery 1930/Design Supply.The master bath features a marble tiled floor, freestanding tub from Ferguson, and custom drapery. A crystal chandelier adds glamour.Hannah and Teddy share a playful moment on the front porch. Love Hannah’s look? She’s also the fashion columnist for Birmingham Home & Garden and curator of Looks & Merit. For more great style ideas, follow Hannah Benak at IG @looksandmerit or looksandmerit.com.
RESOURCES Architect: B. Heath Clement, AIA, 205.586.4711 Interiors: Caitie Morgan Interiors, caitiemorgan.comPaint colors: Trim: White Dove, Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.comWalls: Pearly White, Sherwin Williams, sherwin-williams.comKitchen cabinets: Agreeable Gray, Sherwin Williams Kitchen island: Urbane Bronze, Sherwin Williams Master bath walls: Classic Gray, Benjamin Moore Ceiling beams and white oak hardwood floors: Evolutia, 855.277.5495, evolutiamade.comCabinets: Deep Fried Southern Cabinetry, deepfriedsoutherncabinetry.comTile: South Cypress, 800.891.2623, southcypress.comCountertops: Synergy Stone, 205.556.8115 synergystoneinc.comPlumbing fixtures, appliances, hardware: Ferguson, 205.254.3454, ferguson.comDining room: Brass side table: Defining Home, 205.803.3662, defining-home.comLiving room: Antique Italian sculptor’s table, coffee table, charcoal chairs, pillows: Design Supply, 205.777.3464, artgallery1930.com/designsupplyMaster Bedroom: Bed: Bernhardt, bernhardt.comBedding: Leontine Linens, leontinelinens.comMaster bathroom: Chandelier: Restoration Hardware 205.967.1901, restorationhardware.comTile: South Cypress Drapery: custom by Rollins Drapery, 205.841.0372, rollinsdrapery.comHall bath: Sconces: Circa Lighting, circalighting.comArtwork: Carrie Carlton through Gallery 1930, artgallery1930.comMirror: Ballard Designs, ballarddesigns.comPlumbing fixtures: Ferguson, 205.254.3454, ferguson.comMarble top on vanity: Synergy Stone
Georgia Carlee, of GCI Design, offers a uniquely custom experience with the knowledge, experience and resources to implement all phases of the design process. With locations in Alexander City and Santa Rosa Beach, GCI Design creates beautifully curated getaway homes with timeless appeal. Georgia will be designing the sitting room of the 2019 Inspiration Home.
Why do you do what you do? GC: I have been moving furniture around in my room since I was in third grade and I drew house plans in seventh grade math class. This has always been something I have loved to do, even before I knew it could be a job. I have been fortunate enough to work in an industry that I have dreamed about since I was very young. I realize not many people truly get that chance in life to make a living doing what they love. I think it is important for everyone to have a home and have a space that they want to be in that reflects who they are. A home is where memories are made. Being an Interior Designer, I get to be included in that very personal process of creating a home where people spend a majority of their life. I also get the opportunity to meet some of the most unusual people from all over. My job is interesting, challenging at times, but always rewarding in the end.
Favorite local design resources? GC: I always try to shop local and support shops and artists wherever the project may be. I love to scour antiques stores for something unexpected that is primitive and architectural.
Go to paint colors? GC: I really want to say something very unusual, but the truth is I ALWAYS fall back on Benjamin Moore White Dove. I have tried so many other shades, but that white is too good. It is milky, warm, works with every color and never looks sterile.
Trends vs timeless – where do you fall? GC: I definitely lean more timeless because I’m too sensible to waste money on costly pieces that are trendy. For trends, add smaller, inexpensive objects or accents that can be easily changed. Furnishings, fixtures and finishes that are good quality last a long time and are worth the expense. I always start with the main furniture pieces that are timeless and have good lines then add in more trendy accents to keep the space feeling current and fresh.
Georgia thinks it is important for everyone to have a home and have a space that they want to be in that reflects who they are.
What is your favorite space to design? GC: Ironically, I love small spaces. I feel like they are the most challenging because they typically have multiple functions and every single thing counts in that space. The finishes, the furniture, the function…everything is important, so I really love that challenge of trying to maximize small spaces while creating something beautiful for the end user.
Tell us a little about the space you are designing for the Inspiration Home. GC: I am designing the sitting room. I am hoping this space comes across as multifunctional and comfortable. It is on the second floor off of three bedrooms. I’ve had to think about how I think most people would use this space. I have considered it to be a secondary living/media space with room to sit and watch tv, play games, read a book, have some quiet time, visit with family and also to be a space for working and studying. The overall feel I’ve tried to convey is comfortable, collected, unique and current.
Georgia believes that furnishings, fixtures and finishes that are good quality last a long time and are worth the expense.
Do you have a design motto you live by? GC: Less is more. I am not a fan of visual clutter. Everything should have a place. It’s calming in this busy world. I always leave an opportunity for my clients to add personal touches in their homes as they collect memories. However, I often find myself going back and editing for them!
Find out more about GCI Design by visiting the website here.
Click here to learn more about the 2019 BHG Inspiration Home.
During construction, the Spensleys were living in Zambia, South Africa, where Allison worked in international public health and her husband Steve owned a security company. Allison worked long distance with architect Richard Long, letting family and color be her guide. Photos by Jean Allsopp
My daughters describe our home as a ‘surprise house’,” Allison Spensley says. “They say it’s all dark and serious on the outside and then a party on the inside.” Living inside that surprise on a wooded 6-acre lakeside property in Shelby County’s Stonegate Farms are Allison, Steve, and their three children, 11- year-old Emm, 8 year-old Clara, and 3 year-old Charlie, along with Boomer, a chocolate lab, and Felix, a Zambian rescue cat. “My kids love to be busy all the time—making slime, creating art projects, riding their bikes, and running around,” Allison says. “They definitely influenced the way we designed the house.”
When the Spensleys first purchased the property, they collaborated with Richard Long of Birmingham’s Long & Long Design on their new home’s architectural plans. “I don’t consider myself a very traditional person, so I didn’t want a formal, traditional house,” Allison says. “Instead, I wanted to create spaces that are friendly and welcoming and encourage togetherness.” Richard and his team designed a five-bedroom, four-and-a-half bath, two-story home with about 4,700 square feet of living space. “The home’s exterior architecture is simple, modern, and barn-like with vertical cypress siding, corrugated metal roofing, and a stone water table,” Richard says. Allison adds, “When you enter the house, with its dark, monochromatic exterior, you really don’t expect to find the light, colorful, airy spaces inside. I love that moment.”
White shiplap siding sets off the kitchen’s vibrant colors. Cabinets are coated in a preppy spring green (matched to Pantone’s Greenery), and barstools are the color of summer sunshine. The family’s laundry/mudroom/craft room shows a hint of vibrant turquoise that matches the custom color of the turquoise Blue Star range.
The interior opens to the main level’s great room encompassing the living, dining, and kitchen areas where color reigns supreme. “It was exciting to work with the Spensleys to transform the rooms with such bold and beautiful hues,” Richard says. “Many of those wall colors and art pieces represent their love for the culture of Zambia, where they once lived.”
The open floorplan is completely focused on family, eschewing conventional spaces for task-oriented areas and together time. “We’ve had formal living and dining areas, and for us they were a waste of space,” Allison says. “Anyone who visits our house has to join into our craziness—there’s no formality in our lives!”
One of the Spensleys’ most used spaces is the laundry/mudroom/craft room just off the kitchen. “This area is the headquarters for the family,” Allison says. “It’s usually full of craft supplies, muddy boots, fishing poles, sports equipment, and pet toys. You name it, it’s in there.” The room includes a locker for each family member, a washer and dryer, a dog-wash station, project workspace and storage space, food pantry storage, a utility sink, and a desktop.
Another one of Allison’s goals was making sure she chose durable materials and furniture. She explains that white quartz countertops from Cottage Supply Company “are indestructible,” a warm stain on oak floors “hides all of the dirt, dust, and debris,” and unlacquered brass fixtures “just get better with time.” And she especially loves the corner protectors that she designed. “They are made of iron that’s painted black and bolted onto interior corners, and they take all the abuse an 11-, 8-, and 3-year-old can give,” she says.
The entry showcases a colorful elephant painting from Kenya and baskets from Zambia. The console table is a “judgement table” from northern Zambia—a piece around which communities historically held court and made judgements and community decisions. The stairwell is a gallery for Allison’s collection of woven disks from Rwanda. The runner is Astro Turf from The Home Depot. “It’s great for picking up mud and debris, and then I can hose it off outside,” Allison says.The great room’s living area has seating—enough for the whole family—centered on a big fireplace. The dining table was handmade in Zambia. “It’s super heavy,” Allison says. “We hosted my whole family for the holidays, and with the combination of the dining table and the banquette, we easily seated 18 of us and still had space to set up the island as the serving buffet.”A cozy banquette tucked into a window-wrapped corner of the kitchen is the perfect place for family dinners or a quiet, early-morning cup of coffee. “The Saarinen tulip table was one of my big furniture purchases, and I love it paired with my Ikea acrylic chairs,” Allison says.The upstairs hallway is lined with doors painted in a rainbow of hues. “I didn’t want it to end up being a boring hallway, so I created a more powerful moment,” Allison says. “I let the kids choose the colors for the doors to their rooms. The other doors are five huge closets—evidence of Richard’s amazing space-design skills.”“Upstairs, a large open landing is a kids’ gathering place. “We designed a playroom/workroom so the kids would have their own space to watch TV and do homework,” Allison says. “They each have a workstation on the built-in desktop.” For the statement wall in the room, she had a specific vision. “I sent very detailed instructions with a sketch and the dimensions of the squares,” Allison says. She also furnished the space with a bunch of super-comfy beanbags that the kids constantly move around to make forts, beds, and TV-watching seats. “The flexibility is great,” Allison says. Pillow covers depicting animals are from a line of textiles handmade in rural Mfuwe, Zambia, that Allison offers in her shop, Red Tembo Designs. “Red Tembo is where I source items I love,” she says. “It’s my outlet to express some of my creativity and share amazing finds from around the world. And it gives me a reason to hang on to my shopping addiction.”This task space is where Allison says she was the most adventurous with color—turquoise walls and cabinets (Cool Aqua, Benjamin Moore), an orange-and-white checkerboard floor (Orange Nectar and Super White, Benjamin Moore), and yellow fixtures. “We have a Dutch door so that we can let the outside in without letting pets out—although more times than not, the door is just completely open,” Allison says.Even the bathrooms get the color treatment. A neutral base— a white subway tile backsplash and black vanity—is upgraded with yellow walls (Yellow Highlighter, Benjamin Moore), turquoise pendant lighting, and African baskets in a woven rainbow of hues.The master bathroom is saturated in a turquoise-green (Bahama Green, Benjamin Moore) with white countertops, a freestanding tub from Fixtures & Finishes, brass fixtures from Brandino Brass, and warm wood floors. “The portraits over the tub are NOT of Steve and me,” Allison says. “We found them at an art market in North Carolina. It makes me laugh that people would think we would hang 4-foot-tall portraits of ourselves in the bathroom.”
Color (yes, please.)
Inspired ideas for filling your home with color and happiness.
BE BRAVE. “I chose bright, clear colors that pop from a background of white,” Allison says. “I will be the first to say that my color choices are not for everyone, but I wanted a space that would bring happiness to our lives. I’ve had many people say how brave I am to use the colors I did, but I don’t really think of it that way. I just wanted my home to reflect what makes me smile.”
CHOOSE JOY. “Everywhere I look in the house, I see my creative decisions. They add such joy!” Allison says. A daily activity the Spensleys enjoy is their “happy jar” project. Each family member has his or her own vase to fill with positive thoughts and joyful moments. “Every day, we each write a quick note about something that made us happy that day,” Allison says. At the end of the year, the family reads these reminders together.
MAKE A CONNECTION. Allison is a collector of art and objects from around the world, all of which have a place of pride in her home. “My work in international health has taken me all over the globe, and I love finding craft markets and art galleries wherever I go,” she says. “I have become very skilled at fitting whatever I find into my suitcases to bring back home!” Her collections include pieces from Nicaragua, Peru, South Africa, Rwanda, Zambia, and Swaziland.
RESOURCES Interiors: Allison Spensley, IG @RedTemboDesigns, Architect: Richard Long, Long & Long Design, longandlongdesign.com, 205.637.5777 Builder: Ruff Reams, ruffreams.com, 205.982.8002 Kitchen and bath cabinets: Bud’s Cabinets, Sylacauga, 256.249.3716 Hardware: Brandino Brass, brandinobrass.com, 205.978.8900 Appliances: AllSouth, allsouthappliance.net, 205.942.0408. Countertops: Cottage Supply Company, cottagesupplycompany.com, 205.458.0002 Master bathroom fixtures: Fixtures & Finishes, 205.323.5616 Powder room vanity: fabricated by Red Mountain Ironworks, redmountainiron.com, 205.226.9055 Interior lighting (except for master bathroom): Barn Light Electric Company, barnlight.com Pillow fabric in living room: King Cotton, kingcottonfabrics.com, 205.732.8283
Juliska Tulipieres flank the birthday cake, an Olexa’s creation that artistically replicates the Tobacco Leaf pattern on the china. Photos by Jean Allsopp
Tabletop Design by Patricia Murray, Table Matters Floral Design by Mary Cox Brown, Marigold Designs
Guess what!? It’s your birthday! And this year, you can have anything you want. Dinner with friends over a fabulous, colorful table setting filled with all of your favorite things? Check. Your very own signature cocktail, plentiful wine, and a charming bartender? Ok. Party games that make you double over with laughter thanks to jokes old and new? Yes. A playlist with yacht rock and Justin Timberlake? Whatever your jam, it’s yours.
Hot pink napkins monogrammed with a pagoda design underscore the table’s exotic flair.
One very creative birthday girl checked off all of this and more when she invited friends to a dinner soiree at the John Hand Club and Hotel in downtown Birmingham. Located on the top two floors of the 1912 classical skyscraper, the swanky space proved perfect for an intimate evening of silliness and elegance. Patricia Murray, owner of Table Matters, and floral genius Mary Cox Brown helped set the scene. “The color scheme and tabletop design all started with the birthday girl’s Tobacco Leaf plates from Mottahedeh,” Patricia says. “From there, we played to the pink hues by introducing the Fish Scale plate in Raspberry by Herend.” Going bold, she worked with Les-Ottomans to design a custom, Turkish silk table cover. “It’s so much fun to mix pattern, color, and textiles,” Patricia says. “The great thing about the Tobacco Leaf pattern is the wide variety of colors you can work with.”
Though the primary theme was pink, Patricia tapped into the pattern’s blues with Nason Moretti’s Burlesque Bourgogne goblets crafted of mouth-blown Murano glass, along with new and antique blue-and-white containers. Laser-cut acrylic chargers lend a contemporary feel. To make it even more personal, the birthday girl used her own sterling, Tiffany’s English King, along with her collection of sterling Wakefield-Scearce goblets. “I wanted to do something small but really nice while staying authentic to the fun we like to have,” she says. And the fine table setting certainly didn’t sway the shenanigans. “The guests had no idea what to expect,” Patricia says. “The whole party was a surprise for them.” Guests managed to surprise the birthday girl too by showing up in memorable outfits with personality: a vintage evening gown, a dress from a high school party, and an Easter Bunny outfit that brought back shared childhood memories. “We had a great time and lots and lots of laughs,” says the birthday girl.
A cake designed by Olexa’s replicates the Tobacco Leaf pattern from Mottahedeh.An arrangement of peonies, hydrangeas, tulips, ranunculus, and roses pairs with a signature cocktail in silver julep cups to welcome guests.Floral designer Mary Cox Brown filled the table with single bloom arrangements of peonies, ranunculus, tulips, and anemones in varying shades ranging from pink to red to purple.The colorful setting stands ready for guests and dinner served from The Bright Star.
Meet President of 
Tell us a little about the space you are designing for the 2019 Inspiration Home and from where you are drawing inspiration.
Color (
