By: Jama Ketcham Photos: Angie Davis
We love a house that has history. Our latest project is a nearly complete Colonial style home in Homewood. It has great bones and is a true charmer. There is plenty of natural light, and, while the kitchen and bathrooms needed some updating, it was the addition of a master suite and large closet that gave it the space today’s families want and need. The large, gracious rooms and comfortable floor plan make it ideal for entertaining but the arched doorways, old hardwood floors and other details make it cozy and inviting. Making an older home work for today’s modern family does not always mean major changes.Sometimes a tweak here or there is all it takes. There are some really beautiful details and influences that you find in older homes that cannot be recreated today. We want to build on the good that is already there and make it better, if needed. We think this 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath home with extra bonus room, 2 car covered parking and garage workshop beautifully blend today’s space and amenities with the historic charm and feel of Homewood. Being within walking distance of restaurants, shops, schools and church is the icing on the cake.
The kitchen is not only the hardest working room in the house, but it’s also the hub of conversations and gatherings. We wanted to be true to the traditional feel of the home which is why we updated and stained the cabinets, while the beautiful Triton Stone marble makes it feel fresh, clean and light. However, the La Cornue stove is the real showstopper. It’s a little like wearing a statement necklace with a more traditional gown -- it makes the room. The large picture window overlooks the backyard and provides a lovely backdrop of green. *(above left)*## The beautiful brickwork and arched fireplace opening (which mimic the other archways throughout the home) help to anchor the large family room that leads to the backyard. *(above right)*
The master bath is not only beautiful, but also functional. All of the wet elements (the shower and the tub) are contained in one place while the marble provides a gorgeous background for the double brass shower heads and dark marble floor tiles.
The landing at the top of the stairs is accented by an old telephone nook. While it easily could have been removed, this is one of those “charming details” that gives the house its special personality and reminds us of its great history.
The master suite boasts a large closet which has been styled almost like an upscale boutique. Clothes, shoes, handbags and jewelry easily become the “artwork” in this room.
The entranceway alludes to the Colonial grandeur of yesterday but also provides a welcoming shelter from the elements. The original, curved beadboard ceiling beckons friends and family into the house in a traditional but unpretentious style that easily makes you feel at “home.” The sunroom with its blue-green trimmed walls and windows is the perfect spot to relax. And, the fact that it is just off the dining lends itself to dinners around a table that easily move to cozy conversations in the sunroom.
