David Cottrell Estate and Home

Bibury, often dubbed ‘the most beautiful village in England’ by William Morris, is home to the delightful Grade II-listed Arlington Manor. This property, located in the wooded Coln Valley, approximately seven miles from Cirencester, is currently on the market for a guide price of £1.895 million, managed by Savills. Historically, Arlington Manor has a rich past. The Victoria County History (1981) records it as a 17th-century house, with an 18th-century south-west front resulting from a partial rebuilding of its south wing. In 1839, the property functioned as a farmhouse within the Barnsley Park estate, featuring outbuildings to the south, including a barn dating back to 1808. The current owner acquired the house in April 2004 and has since undertaken a sympathetic and extensive renovation. This renovation included integrating the attached stone barn at the rear into the main structure, thereby creating a substantial additional reception room. The property now offers expansive, flexible, and well-lit accommodation spread across three floors. It comprises five reception rooms, a dedicated study, a fully-equipped kitchen/breakfast room, five bedrooms, and five bathrooms. The manor's unique charm is further enhanced by its recent interior design update, skillfully executed by Joanna Wood. Wood is renowned for her expertise in Cotswold properties, having previously restored her own Georgian manor house in nearby Southrop, lending her a deep understanding of the region's architectural and aesthetic sensibilities. Outdoors, a paved courtyard at the rear of the house leads to the enchanting walled gardens. These gardens feature a variety of private, landscaped areas meticulously divided by traditional dry-stone walls, offering a serene and picturesque environment. Included in the sale is an attached one-bedroom cottage, which boasts independent access next to Arlington’s wrought-iron entrance gates, as well as an internal connection to the main house. Additionally, the property features a fully equipped party barn. This barn is designed for entertainment, complete with soft furnishings, dramatic lighting, a table football setup, and a cinema screen, making it an ideal space for social gatherings and leisure activities. #CotswoldProperty #ArlingtonManor #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #PeriodProperty #CountryLife #JoannaWood #Bibury

Mike and Zara Tindall, known for keeping their private lives largely out of the public eye, recently offered a rare glimpse into their home at Aston Farm on Princess Anne's Gatcombe Park estate. This occurred when Mike Tindall shared a video for a charity initiative, recorded from a previously unseen living space within their residence. The room showcased a distinct aesthetic compared to the more traditional royal settings often associated with their family. The featured living room is characterized by a calming blue hue on the walls, contributing to a serene atmosphere. Mike Tindall was seated on a cream-colored sofa, with a wooden sideboard positioned behind him. This sideboard displayed a unique bronzed sculpture, suggesting a blend of modern art within the space. A watercolour painting depicting a rural landscape adorned the wall, possibly reflecting the countryside surroundings of their Gloucestershire home. Additionally, a contemporary cream lamp was visible, deviating from the grand, gilded lamps typically found in other royal households, reinforcing the modern design elements present. In contrast to this newly revealed 'zen room,' Mike Tindall typically records videos from his home office. This office is a larger space furnished with an extensive shelving unit for books and ornaments, and prominently features a podcast poster for 'The Good, The Bad and the Rugby' on the back wall. The couple's commitment to an active lifestyle is also evident through their home gym, a room revealed by Mike in 2020. This gym boasts exposed brick walls and a Union Jack flag, housing an exercise bike used by Mike for a charity ride, highlighting their dedication to fitness. Despite their established life on the 700-acre Gatcombe Park estate, Zara Tindall has expressed an openness to a potential future move to Australia. In a 2019 interview, she indicated that such an opportunity would be considered, particularly after her competitive career concludes. For now, annual visits to Australia suffice, a country they consider a 'home from home,' largely due to their initial meeting in Sydney 21 years ago during the 2003 Rugby World Cup. The couple married in 2011 and have three children: Mia, Lena, and Lucas, whom they generally keep out of public view, though they are occasionally seen at family events like the Festival of British Eventing held at Gatcombe Park. #MikeTindall #ZaraTindall #RoyalHomes #AstonFarm #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #GatcombePark #CelebrityHomes

This article highlights a meticulously designed and historically significant Dallas pied-à-terre, originally built by T. L. “Buster” Morehead, owner of Mister Buster’s Studio Furniture Company, in the Turtle Creek Park neighborhood in 1938. The property, located at 4111 Rock Creek Drive, is presented as an ideal solution for luxury buyers seeking a primary residence, a second home, or a convenient, low-maintenance asset for business travelers. Morehead, known for his European imports, custom furniture, antique refinishing, and stylish interior decor, constructed a custom home that has retained its elegance and functionality for over eight decades. The residence offers a unique journey through its distinct levels, starting with an awe-inspiring basement level added in 2006. This subterranean space, fortified with 54 tons of concrete, features a sophisticated cigar room with a barrel-vaulted Venetian plaster ceiling and a remote-controlled smoke evacuator, alongside a 15-foot tall wine room capable of storing 2,000 bottles. The wine room is adorned with custom Art Deco glass, bronze, and marble doors, hand-blown Venetian glass light fixtures, and a stone figure of Bacchus, complete with a library ladder for upper storage access. Additionally, the basement includes a hidden steel-encased safe room, strategically located near the wine collection. The main floor of the 4,601-square-foot home boasts a grand entry and formal living room that seamlessly transition into a dining room. The dining room offers views of a side garden through an oversized window, a design choice by Mister Buster that was avant-garde for the 1930s. The living room features a Honduras mahogany fireplace with Breccia Vendome marble, while the dining room ceiling is also crafted from Honduras mahogany. The family room is situated a few steps down from the main floor, and the kitchen is characterized by custom cherry wood and Kane leaded art glass in its windows, cabinets, and doors. French doors and windows overlooking the pool subtly pay homage to the Art Nouveau period. Interior designer Louise Moore contributed to the home's aesthetic, ensuring it met the seller's needs and taste. The main floor home office, for instance, features cobalt blue WP Stroheim wallpaper and an art-nouveau-inspired floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the pool. The upper levels house five bedrooms, including a principal suite with solid mahogany closets in its dressing room, and a game room. A winding metal staircase from the game room leads to a bunkroom, described as a perfect respite. Beyond the interior, the property offers an extensive outdoor living experience. This includes a pool, spa, covered patio with a kitchen and fireplace, and a cabana equipped with a full bath, dry sauna, and guest quarters. The pergola, enhanced with a new roof, drapery, and lights, and preserved wisteria vines, creates an ideal entertaining space. Custom nickel balcony railings and a dog run extending the width of the property further enhance the outdoor amenities. The home's location in the private Turtle Creek Park neighborhood, chosen by notable figures like restaurateur Alberto Lombardi and the Trammel S. Crow family, ensures privacy and security. The property is currently listed for $3.285 million by Ebby Halliday agents Nicole Womack O’Neill and Kay Weeks. #DallasRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #PiedATerre #TurtleCreekPark #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #CustomHomes #WineCellar #OutdoorLiving

This blog post highlights a four-story townhouse located at 356 President Street in the historic Carroll Gardens neighborhood. Built in 1869, the property has recently been listed for just over $4 million, showcasing a blend of historical architectural details and modern upgrades. The exterior of the townhouse features an arched doorway, original paneled doors, Italianate cast iron hand railings, and an impressive cornice, all preserved within a historic district. Inside, the residence has undergone recent restoration efforts to maintain its original charm. These restorations include eight fireplaces, five of which boast ornate marble mantels, as well as plaster moldings, ceiling medallions, decorative trim, and the original wood floors. The property is currently configured as a three-bedroom owner's duplex, with the garden floor housing the bedrooms and the parlor floor dedicated to living spaces. Additionally, the third and fourth floors are designed as two separate rental apartments, offering potential income. The parlor floor hosts a dedicated dining room adjacent to an eat-in kitchen. The dining room features a fireplace framed by an intricately carved marble mantlepiece. The owner's renovated kitchen is noted for its ample natural light, courtesy of large windows, and its direct access to a deck. One of the rental apartments also includes a kitchen with nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring bright living spaces throughout the property. Bedroom configurations vary, with one bedroom offering a lofty aesthetic characterized by exposed ceiling beams and an exposed brick fireplace painted white. Another bedroom retains more historic elements, including its own fireplace and tin ceilings. The outdoor space has also been significantly upgraded by a landscape architect. The backyard now features vertical cedar fencing, new retaining walls, built-in seating, and a bluestone patio, accessible from the kitchen's deck. This redesigned outdoor area provides a private retreat. Overall, the townhouse at 356 President Street presents a meticulously restored property that balances its historical integrity with contemporary living needs, offering both a luxurious owner's residence and income-generating rental units within a desirable Brooklyn neighborhood. #CarrollGardens #Townhouse #BrooklynRealEstate #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalDetails #HomeRestoration #NYCRealEstate

The article showcases a historic Clifton mansion, built in 1873, which was a wedding gift to Olivia Elizabeth Procter, daughter of Procter & Gamble co-founder William Procter, and her husband, pork packer Thomas Morrison. This grand residence, designed by Samuel Hannaford and Sons, blends various architectural styles, predominantly High Victorian, and spans 8,459 square feet with 17 rooms. Many of the original features have been preserved, including built-in interior wood shutters that retract into custom pockets, and distinctive inlaid wood floor patterns on the first floor, such as a unique parquet in the dining room. The front hall features painted leather wainscoting, and a rare two-way spring-style door hinge is found in the butler’s pantry, a detail so notable it was highlighted in the local architecture book 'Great Houses of the Queen City.' According to Perrin March, a Coldwell Banker West Shell agent, each room offers unique characteristics. For instance, the smaller front parlor incorporates 13 different wood species, reportedly one for each of the original colonies. The large parlor houses two oil paintings that have been part of the home's history for nearly 142 years, including a portrait of Olivia Procter herself. A wall-mounted bell near the back staircase suggests its historical use to signal kitchen staff. Despite its historical integrity, the mansion has undergone modern updates while maintaining a period-appropriate aesthetic. These improvements include a master bathroom finished with marble, a fully renovated kitchen, and a sprawling basement wine room. The wine room is equipped with a large stone fireplace and two adjacent glass-walled storage areas designed to hold up to 2,600 bottles of wine. The property is currently listed at $1.2 million. #Clifton #HistoricHome #RealEstate #VictorianArchitecture #Cincinnati #Mansion #SamuelHannaford #ProcterAndGamble #HomeTour

The Courtyard House, designed by D'WELL, is a 920-square-meter farmhouse situated on the outskirts of Surat, India. Completed in 2024, the residence is conceived as a sanctuary for a family seeking a tranquil environment away from urban congestion, fostering a lifestyle integrated with nature and shared family moments. The design prioritizes a connection to the natural surroundings and the creation of intimate, well-lit spaces. The architectural approach emphasizes a contextual design, integrating the structure harmoniously with the site's natural elements. Key to this integration is the extensive use of locally sourced materials, contributing to both the aesthetic and environmental sustainability of the project. Concrete, a primary material, is employed for its thermal mass properties, which help regulate indoor temperatures in Surat's climate. This strategic material selection, combined with passive design strategies, aims to reduce the building's energy consumption. A central courtyard serves as the focal point of the house, influencing both its spatial organization and environmental performance. This open-air space enhances natural ventilation, allowing cool air to circulate throughout the interiors and mitigating the need for excessive artificial cooling. The courtyard also acts as a primary source of natural light, illuminating various rooms and reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. The arrangement of rooms around this central element fosters a sense of community and provides a private outdoor oasis for the residents. The interior layout features interconnected spaces that facilitate family interaction while also providing areas for individual retreat. Large openings and strategically placed windows blur the lines between indoor and outdoor environments, offering panoramic views of the landscape and drawing the garden's tranquility into the living spaces. The design incorporates minimalist aesthetics, characterized by clean lines and a neutral color palette, which accentuates the natural textures of the materials and the interplay of light and shadow. Sustainability is a core principle in the Courtyard House's design. Beyond material selection and passive cooling, the project likely incorporates other eco-friendly features such as rainwater harvesting or solar energy integration, although specific details are not provided. The objective is to create a living environment that is not only visually appealing but also ecologically responsible and conducive to well-being. The project reflects a growing trend in residential architecture towards designs that prioritize user comfort, environmental performance, and a strong connection to nature. By addressing the specific climatic conditions of Surat and the client's desire for a peaceful retreat, D'WELL has crafted a home that embodies thoughtful design and sustainable living principles. The Courtyard House stands as an example of how modern architecture can blend with local context to create functional, beautiful, and environmentally conscious spaces. #ResidentialArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #SustainableDesign #DWELLArchitects #SuratIndia #ModernArchitecture #NaturalVentilation #EcoFriendlyDesign

This article highlights the design and construction of Peter Donohoe's multi-use homestead in Carlisle, Massachusetts, crafted by Patrick Ahearn Architect. Donohoe, a former Olympic bobsledder and current athlete conditioner, sought to create a property that could seamlessly integrate his personal life with his professional endeavors. The nearly 3-acre plot was envisioned to include a main house for entertaining and guests, a carriage house for his car collection, and a barn for his training facility and his wife's office. The initial design phase focused on complex site planning due to the hilly terrain, a process that took several months to finalize. The primary challenge was to create a grand country house that maintained a sense of intimacy and privacy, fitting within Carlisle's farmhouse aesthetic without appearing ostentatious. Architect Patrick Ahearn's design philosophy prioritized the client experience, ensuring that professional activities did not infringe on family life. This was achieved by creating a secondary driveway leading directly to the fitness barn, allowing clients to access the facility without interacting with the main residence or family members. The barn itself was designed with board-and-batten siding and strategic landscaping to blend harmoniously with the surrounding compound. The property features multiple outdoor spaces, including covered porches, second-floor decks, terraces, and gardens, providing various settings for relaxation and private moments. Three of the upstairs bedrooms offer direct access to private outdoor areas. The exterior aesthetics were carefully considered, with new stone walls constructed to mimic older ones and a painted clapboard carriage house designed to appear historically established. The main house, despite exceeding 7,000 square feet, is clad in cedar shingles and designed as a double-gambrel cottage, giving it a more modest appearance from the front. Interior design elements like varying ceiling heights, French doors, and a mix of textures such as beadboard, glass, and stone were used to delineate spaces and prevent the large home from feeling overwhelming. A single main corridor ensures easy flow without passing through multiple rooms. Specific areas within the house demonstrate this thoughtful design. The spacious kitchen is divided by half-walls and columns, creating a distinct breakfast room with views of the bluestone patio and pool. The living room features a stone-veneer fireplace, while a formal dining room was included to accommodate Donohoe's desire for weekend-long dinner parties. These architectural and design choices collectively create what Ahearn describes as "drama that’s intimate in scale." The interior décor, a collaboration with Duncan Hughes Interiors and Dewing Schmid Kearns, blends existing and new furniture and artwork, reflecting a modern farmhouse aesthetic that is both cozy and functional, impressive yet unpretentious, reminiscent of an old New England homestead. The property's overall design effectively balances scale, privacy, and functionality to meet the diverse needs of its owners. #HomeDesign #Architecture #LuxuryHomes #CarlisleProperty #PatrickAhearnArchitect #HomesteadDesign #SitePlanning #InteriorDesign #OutdoorSpaces

PVT House, designed by Cote Architects, is situated in a tranquil residential area of Vỹ Dạ Ward, Hue City, Vietnam. The house benefits from its proximity to a lush garden, providing extensive open views, abundant natural light, and a serene, fresh atmosphere. The design prioritizes integration with nature, ensuring that the living spaces feel connected to the outdoors while maintaining privacy and comfort. The project covers an area of 390 square meters and was completed in 2024. The architectural team was led by Hoang Viet Hung, with contributions from Nguyen Ba Vuong, Vo Thanh Thuy, Le Van Hoang Hai, and Vo Doan Hung. Structural engineering was handled by Nguyen Minh Hoang, while Dien Quang Hue was responsible for lighting design. MEP and HVAC consulting were provided by COTE Arch. Key manufacturers involved in the project include AutoDesk, Eurotile, INAX, and Kenwin. The house features prominent use of concrete as a primary material, which contributes to its modern aesthetic and structural integrity. The design likely incorporates large windows and open-plan layouts to maximize the inflow of natural light and views of the surrounding garden. The emphasis on natural light and ventilation aligns with sustainable design principles, enhancing the living environment and reducing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling. Photographs by Hoang Le capture the essence of PVT House, showcasing both its exterior and interior spaces. The exterior photography highlights the house's facade and window placements, suggesting a thoughtful approach to balancing openness with privacy. Interior shots often feature dining areas, living spaces, and bedrooms, emphasizing the interplay of light, shadow, and material textures. The use of beams in the interior design indicates a focus on structural expression and spatial definition. Architectural drawings, including site plans, floor plans for multiple levels, sections, elevations, and an axonometric view, provide a comprehensive understanding of the house's layout and design philosophy. These illustrations detail the spatial organization, circulation paths, and volumetric relationships within the building, offering insights into how the architects addressed the programmatic requirements and site conditions. The project reflects contemporary residential architecture in Vietnam, often characterized by a blend of modern design with local climatic and cultural considerations. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #VietnamArchitecture #ConcreteArchitecture #NaturalLight #SustainableDesign #ModernHome #HueCity

This article highlights a Mediterranean villa located at 4107 Turtle Creek Boulevard in Dallas, emphasizing its unique beauty and luxurious design. The property, situated in the exclusive Turtle Creek neighborhood, is one of only 34 homes in the area, all dating back to the 1920s and showcasing remarkable architecture. The article describes the initial impression upon arriving at the estate, noting the meticulous balance between the lush landscape and the home itself, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the Italian countryside. The outdoor space, designed by Robert Bellamy, features winding gravel paths, a dovecote, and statuary, giving the impression of a garden that has matured over generations since the house was built in 1924. This deliberate integration of nature and architecture sets the property apart from typical Dallas homes, where the tendency is often to maximize building space at the expense of outdoor aesthetics. The villa underwent a comprehensive renovation between 2010 and 2012, led by Chad Dorsey of More Design + Build. The renovation focused on integrating modern luxury while preserving the home's original character. Key updates include the incorporation of exquisite architectural elements, such as hidden elevator and silver closets behind antique doors, and the extensive use of encaustic floor tiles throughout the property. These tiles, according to listing agent David Griffin, come with letters of provenance, affirming their historical significance. The main villa spans 4,606 square feet, featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and one powder bath. Each room on the first floor offers direct access to the outdoors, fostering a seamless connection between the interior living spaces and the expansive grounds. The interior boasts multiple living areas, designed for both intimate gatherings and larger entertainment, all while maintaining a comfortable and relaxed ambiance. A standout feature is the kitchen, which includes tall ceilings, large casement windows, encaustic tile floors, a marble farm sink, a custom-commissioned French La Cornue stove, commercial-style SubZero refrigerators, and dual Miele dishwashers. Beyond the main residence, the estate includes a sunken greenhouse, a three-car garage, and a charming carriage house. The carriage house serves as a guest house, complete with a beamed-ceiling living room, one full bedroom, a smaller bedroom, a full bath, and a kitchenette. The property also features unique elements such as a terracotta folly that houses chickens, adding to its idyllic, country estate feel within a city setting. The listing agent, David Griffin, prices this Mediterranean villa at $5.95 million, underscoring its exceptional nature and the distinctive lifestyle it offers. #MediterraneanVilla #LuxuryRealEstate #DallasHomes #TurtleCreek #HistoricHomes #HomeRenovation #LandscapeDesign #ChadDorsey #RobertBellamy

The article profiles Ilana Aronowitz, a senior interior designer at Clive Daniel Home in Boca Raton, highlighting her expertise in residential, commercial, and hospitality interior design. With over 20 years of experience, Aronowitz has been a part of CDH since its inception almost a decade ago. Her design philosophy centers on creating a comfortable and personalized haven for clients, emphasizing that a home should be an oasis from the demands of everyday life. She meticulously understands each client's needs and lifestyle, often beginning a design project with a focal point such as a piece of art, a specific chair, or a color, and then building the rest of the design around this central element. If a client doesn't have a clear starting point, she takes the initiative to create one for them. Aronowitz's approach involves a hands-on method to bring visions to life. Instead of merely describing ideas, she physically tapes walls and places material samples on them, allowing clients to see and feel how the proposed design elements will look and interact within their space. She has a particular passion for creating dynamic backgrounds and incorporating various layers into her designs. This includes not only hanging art but also blanketing feature walls with a mix of wallpaper, stone, and wood to generate visual interest and depth. Her intuitive understanding of color is another hallmark of her work, as she enjoys introducing clients to new palettes and blending different hues. Currently, popular color trends Aronowitz observes and incorporates include rusts, earth tones, and dusty rose, which she notes are presented with a modern and improved aesthetic compared to their 1980s counterparts. In terms of patterns, geometrics, houndstooth, and herringbone are prominent, often combined with a rich variety of textures within the color schemes. She asserts that Clive Daniel Home is a trendsetter in Boca Raton, constantly innovating and offering fresh perspectives on design. The company's 70,000-square-foot showroom in Boca Raton features a vast selection from over 250 suppliers, ensuring they remain at the forefront of design trends. Aronowitz's educational background includes degrees in photography and advertising and design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, followed by interior design studies at Berkeley College in New Jersey. After establishing her career in design, she moved to Florida 17 years ago. Her contributions to the field have been recognized with multiple Gold and Silver Aurora Awards, underscoring her achievements and influence in the interior design industry. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CliveDanielHome #BocaRaton #IlanaAronowitz #ResidentialDesign #CommercialDesign #HospitalityDesign #DesignTrends

Deion Sanders' former 29,000-square-foot mansion, built in 1999 and known for its turrets, columns, and Taj Mahal-inspired architectural features, is back on the market in Prosper, Texas, for $12.75 million. The property, originally set on 109 acres, has undergone extensive updates, remodeling, staging, painting, and carpeting. Now renamed Chateau Montclair, it is listed by Ebby Halliday agent David Gloria. A notable addition to the home is a grand chandelier, meticulously crafted from three identical chandeliers salvaged from the historic Statler Hilton Hotel in downtown Dallas, which is currently undergoing a significant restoration. Restorers are combining components from the three original fixtures to create one perfect chandelier, addressing cracked and broken crystals found in the process. The mansion's re-listing follows a series of developments around the property. Previously marketed for $21 million for the house and 109 acres, Sanders sold 82 acres to Bloomfield Homes, Inc. in 2014, a deal facilitated by Dallas developer Don Silverman. This sale was intended to pave the way for the development of upscale homes around the estate. The remaining 22 acres, including the mansion, are now part of a new development called Montclair, spearheaded by Mehrdad Moayedi's Centurion American, the same company behind the Statler Hilton restoration. Centurion American is developing a 22-acre neighborhood, encircling the former Sanders residence. The Chateau Montclair boasts an array of luxury amenities, including multiple pools (lagoon-style, regular, and indoor), a 12-acre lake now integrated into the development, a yoga room, basketball court, gym, barber shop, arcade, and a bowling alley. Other features include a guest house, a large theater/screening room, and a sauna. The property also houses an awards gallery. The expansive residence includes 10 bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms, a commercial-grade kitchen, and a soaring two-story foyer. The master closet is notably large, surpassing the size of many apartments, and the master bathroom features a sunken sauna tub. A turntable floor in the master bedroom's foyer, previously a distinctive feature, is now covered with new carpeting. The property's transformation from its original blue exterior to a sand-pink hue is part of its revitalization. The surrounding development now involves multiple entities: MQ Developers handling retail development at Preston and Prosper Trail, Bloomfield developing the 82 acres for new homes, Prime Investments marketing the mansion and four adjacent lots, and Centurion American developing its 22 acres for million-dollar-plus homes within The Montclair community. The integration of the Statler Hilton chandelier symbolizes the blend of historic Dallas elegance with contemporary luxury in this extensively renovated estate, positioning Chateau Montclair for its next chapter. #DeionSanders #ChateauMontclair #LuxuryRealEstate #ProsperTexas #StatlerHilton #MansionListing #DallasRealEstate #HomeRenovation #CenturionAmerican

In 2007, Joe and Katie Hollowell celebrated their wedding on Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, with their families accommodated in the charming Hardison Cottage on East Fayetteville Street. Joe, having always praised the casual, laid-back atmosphere of Wrightsville Beach, saw it as the ideal location for their nuptials, especially as their careers took them to the West Coast. Over the years, despite residing in northern California and raising two boys, the Hollowells maintained their connection to Wrightsville Beach, frequently returning for vacations. In 2020, their affection for the area led them to purchase a smaller beach home on West Fayetteville Street, further solidifying their ties to the community. Joe Hollowell, originally from Edenton, North Carolina, reminisces about visiting Wrightsville Beach even before the opening of I-40, highlighting their long-standing affinity for the Fayetteville Street area. A significant turn of events occurred in June 2021 during a family vacation with Dale Boyett and his children. They discovered the Hardison Cottage, the same property where their wedding guests had stayed, was for sale. Spurred by Boyett's suggestion to co-purchase the cottage, the two families swiftly went under contract. After careful consideration, they decided to demolish the 45-year-old structure to construct a larger, more modern home capable of accommodating both families comfortably. Completed in December 2023, the new residence, though referred to as a 'cottage,' functions as a sophisticated vacation home. It boasts two primary bedroom suites, two distinct living rooms, two laundry rooms, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views. Joe emphasized that the design prioritized maximizing the stunning ocean views, a feature they cherished from the original location. The project engaged local companies for both architectural design and construction, with RMB Building and Design leading these efforts. Bridgett Mazer and Chris Groeschen of Bridgett Mazer Interiors were responsible for the interior design, collaborating closely with the homeowners. This new home was a Gold award winner in the 2024 Parade of Homes, also receiving accolades for its kitchen and primary bath. Mack Braxton of RMB highlighted the challenge posed by Wrightsville Beach town regulations, which enforced an additional seven-and-a-half-foot setback, limiting the home's width to 27 feet. To overcome this, the exterior incorporated a combination of board and batten and prefinished composite walnut siding, offering both aesthetic appeal and low maintenance. Landscaping utilized turf to eliminate the need for mowing, and durable composite materials like TimberTech were chosen for decking, walkways, and porch ceilings, ensuring longevity and ease of care. Unique design elements include garage doors with reversed tinting by Anderson and an innovative entry stairwell featuring floating stairs with built-in lighting, a concept inspired by the International Builders’ Show. The stairwell also showcases a backlit metal print of Wrightsville Beach waves by drone photographer Chris Frick, enhancing the local theme with customizable lighting. The main living area, accessed via these stairs, offers breathtaking ocean views, complemented by vaulted ceilings with white oak beams. The gourmet kitchen, a favorite feature, is defined by a waterfall edge island and a full-wall backsplash crafted from a unique marble stone that visually echoes the ocean's depths, a discovery made by Groeschen and the homeowners. A side wet bar, made from solid stone, further reflects the water, changing with the light throughout the day. The interior design adheres to a coastal contemporary style, with neutrals, varied textures, and rich woods creating a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere. Furnishings were selected during a visit to the High Point Furniture Market. The home features two primary suites on the second and third floors, each distinguished by a walnut door, steam showers (one with an imported porcelain slab), and private balconies overlooking the ocean. All bedrooms are designed akin to hotel suites, complete with king beds, private bathrooms, and custom built-ins. The color palette focuses on neutrals and textures, with any color accents drawn from the ocean, reflecting the homeowners' desire for a design that celebrates their coastal surroundings. Both families actively participated in the selection process, prioritizing both high style and durable comfort for frequent family and friend gatherings. Since its completion in December 2023, the Hollowells and Boyetts have increased their visits, enjoying the family-friendly amenities and laid-back lifestyle that Wrightsville Beach offers. #HomeDesign #CoastalLiving #WrightsvilleBeach #VacationHome #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #NorthCarolina #FamilyHome

The article highlights four preferred home builders in the Arlington real estate market, aiming to guide readers through the crucial decision of selecting a builder for their dream home. Building a home involves significant choices, and the right builder ensures a smooth process, adherence to budget, and a home that endures and fits the family's needs. The author, Jean Ropp, an agent with The Eli Residential Team, emphasizes that while many excellent builders exist, she focuses on four personal favorites who consistently deliver high-quality products. The featured builders include MR Homes, Cherry Hill, Classic Cottages, and McMullin Real Estate. Each builder's background is provided, offering insight into their history, expertise, and philosophy. MR Homes, founded by Matt Rzepkowski in 2008, is characterized by fine craftsmanship, attention to detail, and personalized service, stemming from his third-generation custom home building heritage. The company guarantees its work, reflecting a commitment to superior customer service. Cherry Hill, established in 2003, focuses on creating distinctive and authentic homes. Their approach involves close collaboration between their design team and clients to refine every detail, while Craig, the founder and lead builder, meticulously manages construction to meet high standards, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. This emphasizes their expertise in residential construction and dedication to client satisfaction. Classic Cottages, LLC, founded in June 2010, began with residential renovations before transitioning entirely to new residential construction in Northern Virginia. The firm is recognized for its passion in building high-quality homes that cater to modern lifestyle requirements, showcasing their evolution and specialization in contemporary home designs. McMullin Real Estate, with a legacy spanning over 70 years, has been providing real estate services in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area since James H. McMullin purchased Real Estate Service Inc. (RESI) in 1946. The family's real estate endeavors, including sales, housing, office building construction, and industrial development, have continued through McMullin Real Estate, LLC, led by James B. McMullin. Their recent focus has been exclusively on residential in-fill development, emphasizing the delivery of high-quality housing through experienced teams, third-party designers, engineers, and strong banking relationships. The article also mentions the rarity of these builders having completed homes available for tours simultaneously, as most new builds are pre-sold. Readers are encouraged to contact Jean Ropp for private tours of any active listings or to inquire about these builders' off-market pipelines. She also offers to share her specific experiences with these builders and client testimonials, further aiding prospective homeowners in finding the right fit for their building needs. #ArlingtonRealEstate #HomeBuilders #CustomHomes #ResidentialConstruction #RealEstateFeature #MRHomes #CherryHill #ClassicCottages #McMullinRealEstate

A single-family home located at 3 Dennett Place in Carroll Gardens, known for its distinctive tiny doors, has been listed for sale at $2.05 million. This house is situated on a block-long street characterized by homes that likely originated in the mid-19th century. The property, while possibly requiring some modernization, presents a functional floor plan within its compact size. The exterior of the house features one of the neighborhood's signature diminutive red doors, complemented by an octagonal window. This facade has undergone changes since a circa 1940 tax photo, which depicted a brick building with a modest bracketed cornice and a shared brick side stoop with its neighbor. The tax photo also shows each house on the block originally possessed a tiny door and a rectangular window, indicating a historical architectural consistency. Historical records, including maps from the 1850s, confirm the presence of houses on Dennett Place from that period. An advertisement in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle from 1860 shows a "cottage" on the street renting for $9 a month, providing a glimpse into the area's past. The current property at 3 Dennett Place has not been sold in approximately two decades. Despite the potential need for updates, the house is presented as move-in ready. A virtual tour is available, offering detailed views of the interior and the unique tiny door entrance. The tour also allows observation of the elevated tracks situated directly behind the property. The interior layout includes a parlor level with a living room that features a glass door opening onto a terrace. The floor above accommodates two bedrooms and a full bathroom. The garden level houses the kitchen and dining areas, a laundry room, another full bathroom, and a bedroom equipped with a skylight. The residence is heated by baseboard heating throughout. Design elements within the home include an open-plan kitchen and dining area with exposed wood beams and a combination of wood and tile flooring. The living room features a decorative wooden mantel on a painted brick chimney wall, while the kitchen incorporates a bold, patterned tile wall. On the upper floor, the largest bedroom faces the street, equipped with two windows and two closets. The main bathroom is notable for its checkerboard tile pattern on both the floor and ceiling. The homes on Dennett Place, despite their unique character and local appreciation, are not protected by any historic district designation. This has led to some properties on the row undergoing alterations, such as the addition of extra stories or the removal of their original stoops and tiny doors. The street is recognized for its close-knit community, which was highlighted in a New York Times profile in 2012. The property is listed by Saul Retig and Allison Boggio of Sotheby’s International Realty. #CarrollGardens #BrooklynRealEstate #SingleFamilyHome #TinyDoorHouses #DennettPlace #HistoricHomes #RealEstateListing #BrooklynArchitecture #HomeForSale

The article profiles a classic Victorian home at 3225 Gaylord Ave. in Dormont, dubbed the “Narnia House” by local children due to its whimsical exterior and a green globe lamppost reminiscent of the one in C.S. Lewis’s tale. Dana Burrows and Conor McCaskey were captivated by the home, eventually purchasing it in 2016 after years of admiring it. The house, painted in cheerful period colors, features fish-scale shingles and an enchanting turret, with gold leaf house numbers on transom glass adding to its historic charm. The lamppost served as a beloved meeting point for neighborhood children. Upon acquiring the 2,300-square-foot property, which was originally decorated in a near-perfect period design with extensive wallpaper and antique furniture, the couple embarked on a renovation. They removed most of the wallpaper and rugs, revealing well-preserved original hardwood floors. Key interior upgrades included installing a gas fireplace insert in the living room. Mechanical improvements featured new windows and a slate-look metal roof with a lifetime guarantee, replacing the original slate-tile roof. The charming porch and the home's distinctive yellow and green exterior paint colors were retained. The stunning entry is characterized by an original panel staircase with a brass nymph on the newel post, providing golden light. Several original stained glass windows, located in the entry, formal living room, first-floor landing, and an upstairs bathroom, bathe the rooms in warm, colorful light. The living room features a retrofitted marble fireplace facade with a new Valor Fireplace. The formal dining room was updated with a striking black ceiling, a white medallion, and a modern chandelier, creating a dramatic space ideal for entertaining. The unique kitchen, renovated before the couple purchased the home, boasts an exposed brick hearth wall for the range, wood beams, a ceramic tile floor, and another stained glass window above the cabinetry. The home offers four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. The second floor includes two full bedrooms, a master bedroom, and one full bathroom. One bedroom was converted into a walk-in closet, and another serves as a home office. The upstairs bathroom features wood tongue-in-groove wainscoting, a heated towel rack, built-in closets, and original hardwood floors. The third floor comprises two full bedrooms and a renovated half bathroom, with a ceiling opened up by previous owners. The basement has been modernized with a full bathroom, fireplace, drop ceiling, and laundry area. The property also includes an enchanting gazebo in the backyard, a detached garage, radiator heating, and window air conditioners. The couple eventually sold the home to move to a property on wooded land. #DormontRealEstate #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #HistoricHomes #PittsburghHomes #NarniaHouse #ArchitecturalFeatures #RealEstateMarket

World-renowned golfer Scottie Scheffler, celebrated for his achievements including two Masters titles, resides in a Dallas mansion that, despite its luxury, is described as modest relative to his status. Purchased for $2.1 million in 2020 following his marriage to Meredith Scudder, the property's value has since appreciated to an estimated $3.2 million. This 5,000-square-foot residence, located in the affluent Devonshire neighborhood, features five bedrooms and six bathrooms, reflecting a blend of luxury and understated elegance. The exterior of the home presents a classic style, characterized by a stone facade, an arched front door, and mature landscaping. A circular driveway enhances accessibility. The backyard is a private retreat, encompassing a rectangular pool surrounded by a stone patio. Multiple views of the backyard highlight its luxurious amenities, including outdoor seating areas, a covered patio with a fireplace, and meticulously maintained landscaping featuring lush trees and shrubs that ensure privacy. A spa and waterfall feature further enhance the pool area, creating an ideal setting for relaxation and entertaining. Upon entering the residence, an inviting entryway and sitting room are revealed. French doors allow natural light to illuminate neutral-toned furniture and a patterned rug, while wooden beams add a rustic charm to the ceilings. The dining room is appointed with navy velvet chairs set around a substantial wooden table, beneath a modern chandelier. Hardwood floors extend throughout the home, maintaining a polished aesthetic. The living room serves as a central gathering space, featuring a stone fireplace flanked by windows, comfortable couches, and vaulted ceilings. Neutral tones create a timeless ambiance, allowing the architectural details to stand out. An open-concept living and dining area showcases contemporary furnishings, including gray couches, a white coffee table, and a glass dining table. The kitchen, integrated into an open layout with a dining area, is equipped with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and an island with bar seating. French doors from the kitchen lead to the backyard. The home also includes an office or study, distinguished by hardwood floors, built-in bookshelves, and French doors that open to the outside. This space is furnished with a large wooden desk, a leather office chair, and upholstered guest chairs, all illuminated by a chandelier. A guest bedroom features a wooden sleigh bed, nightstands, and artwork. For recreation, a game room is equipped with hardwood floors and a black ping pong table. The master suite offers a spacious bedroom with a large bed, a gray tufted headboard, and wood flooring, with large windows providing views of the backyard. The master bathroom is a modern, spa-like space, featuring a standalone bathtub, marble countertops, and wall tiles. Another master bathroom showcases a glass-enclosed shower, a dual vanity with dark wood cabinetry, and similar marble finishes. Completing the master suite is a well-organized walk-in closet with custom shelving and storage, designed to accommodate an extensive wardrobe, including Scheffler’s potential collection of green jackets. #ScottieScheffler #DallasMansion #LuxuryHome #HomeDesign #RealEstate #CelebrityHomes #DallasArchitecture #GolfLifestyle