Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Kelly Jones - An Updated Portfolio

Local designer, Kelly Jones, has been busy over the past few months. With spring settling in and summer fast approaching, clients are once again ready to brighten up their living spaces.  Whether it is thanks to a punch of color in a pretty painting, the boldness of fresh floral fabrics, or vibrant accessories that make a statement -- clients seem to be saying 'see ya later' to the neutrals as color swoops in to steal the show.  And what a show it is!

Two of her clients have graciously allowed Jones to share some photos with me. Homeowner Elizabeth Merritt, enjoys the designer's pops of color in her family room.  (Shown above and below.)  Here, the floor is covered by a flat weave reversible rug by Surya.   This is a wonderful choice for any home, but especially those looking for fun colors, interesting design, reasonable pricing and ease of living for a family.  (This rug and all the flat weaves are available in my store.)

The coffee table setting is actually two end tables by Bungalow 5, also available at Eatmans.  This is a clever way to add versatility to a room without losing functionality.  The fabric on the club chairs is 'Aga Reverse' by Quadrille. The bright floral pillows on the sofa are in 'Anichov' by Designer's Guild. The painting above the sofa is a custom for the homeowner by Raines Thompson.





Sunday, May 1, 2011

A Mighty (and Magnificent) Fortress

On the heels of the Royal Wedding with fairy tale feelings floating through the spring air, I was touched to hear of another little dream come true - right here in our home town.  The story begins where most "house" stories begin.  That is, a couple begins a search for the place that is to be their family home.  The place where memories will be made, friendships formed and a life lived out.  For Jimmy and Anna Goodman, the search led them back in time.  

After looking around the area, Jimmy's parents offered the couple the opportunity to buy the empty lot next to his childhood home.  It was a piece of property decorated by an amazing azalea garden, views of a private lake, and most importantly, one that housed Jimmy's childhood fort.  After considering the opportunity, the couple accepted the gracious offer and set out to make that plot of land (and fortress remnant) a home of their own.

The couple enlisted architect, Rodney Ward, of Ward Design Group to help them with their plans. Although Anna and Jimmy have their own sense of style, they augmented their vision with the help of interior designer, Laura Ward.  Laura facilitated in making the numerous decisions required when building a custom home.

The dream became a reality.  The fort is now a home, and a gorgeous one at that.  I was lucky enough to receive an invitation to see the fairy tale in real life.  And what a gift it was!  Enjoy.


This foyer is gorgeous with wood paneled walls, a beautiful staircase, and a wonderfully unexpected chandelier.




You can never go wrong with the classic leopard wool runner. 
One of my favorite things about this house was the hardwood herringbone pattern on the floor stained in dark chocolate black.

To the right is the entrance to the living room.


I love the coffee table and the lime green lamp!
Walking into the family room, which is also open to the kitchen, the Goodmon's chose a combination of traditional and contemporary pieces. Note: the rug on the floor is by Stanton carpets and a great choice for a high traffic area.
Love the simple neutral colors with splashes of turquoise and green.
Windows line the back of the house for the perfect view looking out onto the lake. Who wouldn't love this view?
The kitchen in all white and black with simple pendant lights is clean and classic.




This unique back splash in the butler's pantry reminds me of glass bubbles.


I love Anna's choice of table, chairs, and chandelier. This Nuevo Chandelier is such a great statement piece, and the table is sublime!
Bright orange and tangerine colors are so perfect for this house. Anna took some of her parents' dining room chairs and stripped and painted them herself. Brilliant! And I love the two pendant chandeliers hanging over the dining room table.



If I lived in this gorgeous home, I would spend many hours in the sun room (below).  What a perfect little sanctuary!

Thanks Anna & Jimmy for sharing your home with me!