Twin Construction helped this Homewood family turn their desire for more space into a stunning new home, keeping their neighborhood’s character intact.
Homewood is well-known for its architectural character and authenticity, and the work of Twin Construction over the past two decades has certainly aided the community’s vision for honoring the past while propelling it forward. So when this family of four realized their charming yet pint-sized bungalow didn’t quite measure up due to its lack of square footage, it was no surprise that they turned to a frontrunner in the community’s transformation.
The goal was to build an entirely new abode on their existing lot that would provide the much-needed space without looking like a new build, honoring the historical integrity of their street was at the top of the list for the family.
To accomplish the task, Twin put together a team dedicated to seamlessly blending modern functionality and optimum space with the neighborhood’s architectural heritage. The team began by consulting the family to capture their vision. “They wanted something that fit into the landscape but didn’t look exactly like everything else around them,” says Lydia Smith, an interior designer at Twin.
Crystal Tucker, another designer with Twin, checked off the modern requests with a dark exterior, clean lines, and lots of windows to let in the natural light. To balance out the modern vibes and give a nod to the home’s Edgewood roots, she wove in natural elements at every opportunity, including cedar board-and-batten, cedar brackets, and tumbled natural stone. “The stone offers a nice yin to the dark house’s yang,” says Crystal.
“When mixing patterns, consider their size. pair geometrics with a design that is more freeform, or add something more whimsical near an animal print. color coordination is crucial but so is size and scale.” – Lydia smith, interior designer, Twin Interiors
After going moody outside, Lydia worked with the clients on a fun and funky feel inside. “They wanted color and an eclectic vibe, which fit their personalities perfectly,” she says.
The designer set the tone in the entry with a colorful Native American painting by Birmingham-based artist Mandy Maples. She accented the artwork with an equally vibrant runner from Hazel House. Lydia then carried the collected look straight through to the hallway, where a gallery of mix-and-match items graces the wall. In the main living area, she combined both pattern and color with throw pillows on the sofa, an antelope print on the side chairs, and a vivid kitchen runner.
Taking cues from the exterior, Lydia balanced the eye-catching color and many modern moments with more traditional and natural elements. Unlacquered brass hardware, marble countertops, wood furniture in warm tones, and a combination of stone and limestone on the fireplace add to the lived-in look. As Lydia explains, “We used materials that help the home blend in with the charm of Homewood while also incorporating all the amenities the family needs.”
Resources:
Construction Firm: Twin Construction; Lot Grading: Jeremy and Bethany Miller, Endless Summer; Countertops and Island: Surface One; Runner: Hazel House Collective; Foyer Painting: Mandy Maples
