Southern Made: Into the woods

America's South is experiencing a significant surge in design-forward hotels, with several design firms expertly blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary design. This trend is producing impressive new hospitality projects that rival the best luxury hotels globally. Morris Adjmi Architects (MA) is at the forefront of this hospitality design boom, particularly in Atlanta and Charleston, where the firm is redefining southern hospitality for a modern context. One notable project is the FORTH Hotel & Social Club in Atlanta's Fourth Ward. Developed and designed in collaboration with Method Co., the hotel features a distinctive diagrid facade and rich, tailored interiors. Morris Adjmi Architects' modern interpretation of early American traditions is evident in the handmade wooden furnishings, layered fabrics, and curated objects that imbue each space with a sense of history. FORTH Atlanta, including its pool area, showcases a harmonious blend of historical inspiration and contemporary execution, aiming to offer an instant sense of belonging. In Charleston, The Pinch, a new luxury boutique hotel, also involves Method Co.'s in-house design studio, Method Studios, in collaboration with Morris Adjmi Architects. This unique development comprises a new three-story structure and three meticulously restored buildings dating back to 1843, located on lower King Street. The design of The Pinch, a luxury hospitality complex, incorporates two distinct facades for the new building: a contextually appropriate limestone facade for King Street and a brick facade for the mews. The property includes a bespoke ground-floor restaurant and a courtyard with an outdoor fireplace. The interior design draws inspiration from English craftsmanship traditions brought to Charleston, featuring timeless yet contemporary elements like velvet sofas, vintage rugs, custom décor, full kitchens, Italian marble farmhouse sinks, and hand-painted terracotta Moroccan floor tiles in the bathrooms. The lobby is designed to feel like a living room, complete with a reclaimed oxblood leather concierge desk, vintage McIntosh stereo, and a curated collection of vinyl, books, and artwork. Traditional details like walnut herringbone floors, classic trim, stonework, and clay plaster walls further reinforce the historical context. Another project by Morris Adjmi Architects is the Asher / ROOST Tampa, a Method Co. endeavor in Tampa's Water Street district. This LEED Gold-certified multifamily building, the largest residential structure in the area, features a grid of factory-style windows as a nod to Tampa’s industrial past, maximizing natural light. It offers a comprehensive package of indoor-outdoor amenities, including a lush rooftop pool. The building houses 501 units, from studios to two-bedroom apartments, along with unique co-living units featuring lockable bedrooms and communal spaces. The interiors balance modern living with timeless materials such as American oak, concrete, terrazzo, walnut, stone, brass, and Venetian plaster, in neutral tones accented by soft greens and living plants. MA also curated FF&E and artwork, including custom commissions, for the common areas. Future projects from Morris Adjmi Architects include the Four Seasons – Charleston and 529 King. The Charleston Hotel & Residences, a five-star hotel with for-sale condominiums, aims to be a modern reinterpretation of Charleston’s historic architecture. It will activate a new public courtyard with retail and gardens. Similarly, 529 King, an extended-stay 'apartment hotel' with amenities, features distinct arched windows and a fiber-reinforced concrete-clad canopy, which earned it architectural merit. This project includes a lush interior courtyard and a penthouse level with a restaurant and rooftop bar, contributing to the architectural renaissance in the American South, led by Morris Adjmi Architects. #HotelDesign #SouthernHospitality #LuxuryHotels #MorrisAdjmiArchitects #MethodCo #CharlestonArchitecture #AtlantaDesign #TampaDevelopments #BoutiqueHotels

Shed hunting, the pursuit of antlers naturally shed by deer each winter, has become a growing outdoor activity, offering a unique way to connect with nature and engage in a treasure hunt in the woods. While traditionally a lucky discovery, it has evolved into a dedicated hobby with various resources available, including specialized training for dogs to find shed antlers. This pursuit provides an opportunity for individuals, including families, to enjoy the outdoors, get exercise, and develop a deeper appreciation for wildlife and their habitats. The activity allows participants to piece together the movements and behaviors of deer, as finding a shed antler can reveal where a buck was traveling or resting. The unique challenges of shed hunting in the Southern United States are highlighted, particularly due to the region's dense, tangled, and briary forests, which differ significantly from the more open landscapes of the Midwest. These challenging conditions can make spotting shed antlers difficult. To increase the chances of success in these Southern environments, several strategies are recommended, with mid-to-late February identified as a prime time to begin. One effective strategy involves utilizing areas recently subjected to prescribed fires. While a controlled burn might blacken an antler, making it stand out against the charred ground, it also clears away underbrush, making sheds more visible. It is advisable to consult public land managers to identify scheduled burn areas and be among the first to explore these post-fire landscapes. Another key tactic is to focus on food plots. These cultivated areas concentrate deer during times of scarce natural forage, increasing the likelihood of antlers being dropped nearby. After searching the open areas of food plots, hunters should carefully examine the thickets and brambles at their edges. Employing a systematic search pattern, such as a grid, is more effective than aimless wandering or sticking to easy trails. Binoculars are a valuable tool during these grid searches, allowing hunters to investigate antler-like shapes and glinting tines from a distance without disrupting their search pattern. Special attention should also be paid to areas where deer might jump, such as fence lines, creek banks, and thick cover along ditches. The impact of landing after a jump can often dislodge an antler. It is also important to minimize disturbance to a single area. To avoid over-pressuring deer, it is best to wait until most bucks have shed their antlers before conducting a thorough search of a particular patch of woods, ideally only once. The article also emphasizes appreciating all finds, regardless of size. Even small antlers, such as spike buck antlers or cow horns, can be exciting discoveries for experienced shed hunters, underscoring that the thrill of the hunt extends beyond just finding large racks. This perspective encourages a more inclusive and less competitive approach to shed hunting. #ShedHunting #OutdoorActivities #Wildlife #SouthernForests #DeerAntlers #NatureExploration #HuntingTips #OutdoorRecreation

The 2012 Made in the South Awards recognized exceptional craftsmanship, particularly in the Home Category. The overall winner was Wood Studio's Lookout Mountain Rocker, a testament to traditional woodworking by brothers Keith and Dylan Cochran. Based in Arley, Alabama, near the William B. Bankhead National Forest, the brothers dedicate eighty hours to each rocker, meticulously crafting them without computer-controlled tools or external help. Their process emphasizes the use of native, air-dried wood such as walnut, cherry, or maple, dried for two years to preserve structural integrity and natural luster. They pair this with vegetable-dyed, hand-stretched leather for the seat and back. The Cochrans' commitment to quality extends to their joinery, where they scrutinize wood grain to prevent stress from humidity changes and utilize mortise-and-tenon joints, secured with brass pins for lasting durability. This dedication to their craft is deeply rooted in family history, as their father, Randy Cochran, designed the original Lookout Mountain Rocker over thirty years prior. Randy, an industrial design graduate from Auburn University, incorporated minimalist and Bauhaus principles into the rocker's design, focusing on essential form and function, such as low arms for holding a toddler. The rocker's name and inspiration come from Lookout Mountain in Fort Payne, Alabama, where Randy developed a profound respect for natural growth, influencing Wood Studio's designs to avoid artificial straight lines or contrived curves. Randy founded Wood Studio in the mid-1980s, and his sons joined full-time in 2001. Despite economic challenges post-9/11, they persevered, eventually gaining recognition through the Sundance Catalog. The brothers later relocated their workshop to Arley, while Randy returned to Fort Payne to manage the business and pursue his own woodworking. Their work is celebrated for its "Shaker contemporary" style, a term coined by gallery owner James-Ben Stockton, highlighting their faith in the inherent beauty of natural wood like white oak and ash, rejecting paint or uniform finishes that would obscure the wood's unique character and texture. Each piece is distinct, even two walnut chairs with natural tan hide will differ in color and texture. In addition to the overall winner, the Home Category also recognized several runners-up. Nordt Family Farm, based in Charles City, VA, was honored for its delicate, color-blocked blankets woven from merino wool, with Dianne Nordt personally weaving approximately eighty-five blankets per spring shearing. Kaminer Haislip from Charleston, SC, received recognition for her sculptural silver coffeepot, blending traditional European silversmithing with Art Deco and Scandinavian modern influences. Finally, Fire Pit Art from Lebanon, TN, was acknowledged for Rick Wittrig’s durable fire pits, crafted from quarter-inch steel, reflecting a strong tradition of no-nonsense craftsmanship and designed to last for a century. #MadeInTheSouthAwards #WoodStudio #LookoutMountainRocker #HandcraftedFurniture #TraditionalWoodworking #ArtisanCrafts #SouthernCraftsmanship #HomeGoods #ProductDesign

This article provides an in-depth look at the reconstruction and interior design of a classic Southern farmhouse in Nashville, Tennessee, developed to serve as a multi-generational family home. The project involved a collaborative effort between Interior Designer Barbara Westbrook of Westbrook Interiors, builder Huseby Homes, architect Stephen Fuller, and landscape architect Page Landscape. The inspiration for the new farmhouse came from the original, dilapidated house on the property, which possessed a historic facade and classic architecture. Despite its condition, the original structure guided the design towards a timeless, historic feel. Key external features include front and back porches designed to encourage relaxation and engagement with the surroundings. Clapboard siding and an asymmetrical footprint were incorporated to give the house the appearance of having evolved over generations, creating a sense of history that makes visitors wonder about its age. Intentional property placement and orientation were crucial in the home's design, with every window and angle carefully planned to maximize views of the landscape, including the property's red barn. The porches add dimension, and elements such as brickwork, latticework, and a circular drive contribute to its historic aesthetic. Inside, the home balances luxury with comfort, featuring elegant yet casual spaces. Barbara Westbrook emphasized that no room was designed to be overly precious, ensuring every family member, including children, could comfortably use the spaces. The homeowners favored classic design, evident in the traditional elements throughout, which harmoniously blend with the rural setting without resorting to contrasting styles. The center hall, upon entry, features wainscoting and a chair rail painted in a monochromatic palette of cream and ivory, creating a formal yet welcoming atmosphere. An oriental rug offsets the pristine walls, designed to make the house feel lived-in. Simple brass sconces further enhance the traditional ambiance, mimicking the glow of candles. Throughout the home, wood antiques, particularly those with a walnut finish, are prominent. The designer encouraged selecting antiques based on personal affection rather than matching wood grains, citing Thomas Jefferson's approach to mixing styles. This philosophy results in a layered look with different wood grains and fabrics, contributing to the home's accessibility and casual charm. Heavily textured cotton and linen fabrics, along with checks and stripes, reinforce a collected, country-inspired aesthetic. Elements like old quilts, classic spool chairs, and iron lamps with pleated linen shades are used to evoke a sense of the past, regardless of their actual age. The interior designer also suggested integrating lightly refurbished vintage pieces to add character and prevent the space from feeling too formal. The kitchen serves as a central gathering point, equipped with island stools and Windsor chairs around the breakfast table, facilitating family togetherness. An adjacent dining area on the porch further extends the capacity for communal meals and relaxation, offering views of the rolling hills. While the living spaces predominantly feature neutral, warm tones, hints of color are strategically introduced to add vibrancy and surprise. A blue dining room, gray-and-white checkerboard flooring in the main bathroom, and colorful quilts in the bedrooms contribute to an approachable atmosphere that tempers the elegant scale of the rooms. The overarching goal of the project was to create a practical and beautiful family home where memories could be made for generations to come. #SouthernFarmhouse #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #TraditionalArchitecture #TennesseeHomes #FamilyHome #RuralLiving #HistoricRevival #HomeDecor

The article details the creation of Whimsy Valley, the Western North Carolina mountain retreat of photographer and historic preservationist Perry Vaile. Vaile and her husband embarked on a long journey to find and build their dream mountain home, ultimately settling on a property near Burnsville after a previous attempt in Chimney Rock was thwarted by a landslide specialist's warning, which proved prescient when the property was destroyed by Hurricane Helene. This experience highlighted the importance of thorough environmental assessments before purchasing land for construction. With the new property, Vaile collaborated with local contractor Chris Jarrett over two years to construct a home that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Her background in historic preservation influenced the architectural choices, such as incorporating bark siding as a nod to late 1800s architect Henry Bacon, who popularized this style in Linville, North Carolina. This design decision aimed to give the new build vernacular sensitivity and integrate it respectfully into the region's architectural history. The interior design reflects Vaile's photography career, lending her an eye for creating visually compelling spaces. She combined antique pieces, diverse patterns, and a carefully curated color palette to achieve a timeless yet whimsical atmosphere. The living room features vaulted ceilings, providing a sense of grandeur and allowing for the inclusion of a stained-glass window sourced from a decommissioned church, which casts magical light when illuminated by the south-facing sun. The kitchen is designed to evoke warmth and character, channeling an "eccentric grandma" aesthetic. A William Morris patterned backsplash complements soft blue cupboards, adding texture and personality to the space. The master bedroom is built around a blue patterned wallpaper, inspired by an inn Vaile photographed, and features antique doors from an architectural salvage center in New Orleans. For her daughters' bedroom, Vaile aimed for a playful yet chic English bed and breakfast feel, incorporating gingham curtains and wallpaper from House of Hackney, with wood paneling completed by Vaile and her husband. Outdoor elements were also carefully considered. Vaile, who always desired to live near water, created an artificial stream that mimics natural rock formations and winds through the yard, providing a soothing soundscape and a scenic place to relax. The master bathroom features a copper tub as a focal point and an antique dresser with a marble countertop and stone sink, a resourceful find from Facebook Marketplace. The home also includes a wraparound deck equipped with rocking chairs, designed to offer expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The property is further enlivened by six miniature ponies, which roam the grounds, adding to the idyllic, storybook ambiance of Whimsy Valley, where Vaile's mother also resides in a nearby cabin, fostering a nostalgic, close-knit family environment. #MountainRetreat #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #WesternNorthCarolina #WhimsyValley #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHome #OutdoorLiving

The Tierramor retreat in Nosara, Costa Rica, commissioned Bali-based architectural firm Ibuku to design a new wellness space called the Maloca Dome. Ibuku, known for its sustainable bamboo structures, was founded in 2010 by Elora Hardy. The firm has completed various projects globally, including homes, hotels, schools, and event spaces. The Maloca Dome project aims to create a multi-functional space for yoga, meditation, and ceremonial gatherings, harmonizing with its 800-acre reforested mountain setting. The design prioritizes sustainability, utilizing bamboo as the primary structural component and emphasizing low-impact construction techniques to minimize environmental disturbance. Architect Lucas Schlüter describes the Maloca Dome as an organic extension of the landscape, positioned on a hilltop to blend seamlessly with its surroundings and frame the natural beauty of the area. The interior features an open, adaptable floorplan that can accommodate various group sizes and activities, from intimate gatherings to large ecstatic dance sessions. Strategic placement of openings and architectural elements enhances views, connecting occupants with the exterior environment. The design process began with an analysis of the site's views, vegetation, airflow, and light, integrating these natural aspects with Costa Rica’s building traditions. Ibuku drew inspiration from the vernacular architecture of Costa Rica, particularly the pre-Columbian 'cosmic house,' a cone-shaped building that held religious significance for the region's early inhabitants. This traditional form was reinterpreted for the 21st century to create the Maloca Dome. The design principle of "designing for nature with nature" guided material selection and building shape. Bamboo poles, for instance, necessitated long, steeply pitched overhangs to protect them from direct sunlight and rain, allowing for the integration of natural roofing materials. One of the main challenges for the project was adapting Ibuku's Indonesian bamboo construction expertise to Costa Rica's high wind speeds. In collaboration with engineers at Atelier One, a cross-braced structural system was developed using leaning columns that expand and contract, framing the circulation area while creating a strong and flexible space. The yoga floor was designed to be round and column-free, providing unobstructed views of the hillside. Another challenge involved bridging the skills gap between local Costa Rican carpenters and Ibuku’s established bamboo craftsmanship. This was addressed by simplifying designs and, where necessary, substituting certain structural elements with steel, such as the ring beams in the roof, when traditional bamboo techniques were not feasible. Local carpenters quickly adapted their woodworking skills to bamboo, demonstrating increasing confidence and curiosity. Different types of bamboo were utilized to support the structure and enhance the design concept. Local Guadua Angustifolia bamboo was used for the main structural supports due to its straight poles, which visually elevate the roof. Meandering steel rings were integrated to hold the rafters in place and highlight the cosmic house's concept of different universal levels. Black Gigantochloa Atroviolacea bamboo from Indonesia was used to direct attention upwards to a central copper tip, contrasting with the light blond bamboo ceiling. The building also incorporates the local red soil from Tierramor’s hills into the flooring and walls, fostering a sense of grounding and connection to the site. Natural stone boulders from the river on site were used as a moisture barrier between the foundation and bamboo poles, while local wood shingles were chosen for the roof to blend visually with nature and create a calm appearance. Bamboo was deemed ideal for the project due to its sustainability, structural strength, and lightweight nature, aligning with Tierramor’s vision for a sustainable, nature-connected community. The project underscored the importance of adaptability and translating design principles to new cultural contexts. #BambooArchitecture #SustainableDesign #WellnessSpace #CostaRica #Ibuku #NaturalMaterials #BiophilicDesign #TraditionalCraftsmanship

The owner of a discreet, yet classic hunting lodge in western Minnesota, an avid waterfowler, tasked Mark Larson of Rehkamp Larson Architects with creating a sanctuary that embodies his passion for hunting, which he describes as "more of a lifestyle than a hobby," while also serving as a retreat for family and friends. The owner's inspiration stemmed from the rustic hunting cabins depicted in Terry Redlin's paintings, aspiring for a similar aesthetic in his own lodge. This vision involved a design that is both rustic and elegant, a place where nothing is too precious and everything is functional. Externally, the lodge is designed to appear simple and quiet, resembling a utilitarian-style barn. It features galvanized steel siding and a gambrel roof, intentionally conveying a practical and agricultural aesthetic. Larson notes that when the building is unoccupied, it seamlessly blends in as a barn. However, the interior contrasts with this utilitarian exterior, incorporating traditional timbers throughout. Mike Nicklaus of Big Wood Timber Frames supplied reclaimed wood elements for the beams, flooring, ceiling, and trim, including a notable large barn door with hound hardware. Interior designer Brooke Voss of Brooke Voss Design collaborated on the interior, establishing a cool, masculine lodge ambiance. This was achieved by layering materials and patterns such as leather, plaid, and houndstooth, which are characterized as rustic and time-honored. The design palette extended to the kitchen, where cabinetry is painted in deep earthy hues, eschewing white, and a center island, also crafted by Big Wood, resembles a piece of found furniture. Burnished-metal lighting is installed above the island. Additional decor includes antler fixtures by Fish Fisher from Bozeman, Montana, various taxidermy pieces, and artwork collected by the owner over the years. A gas fireplace with a limestone surround and chimney further contributes to the lodge's interior warmth and character. The layout of the lodge is functional, with a small entrance near the garage leading to a game-cleaning area and mudroom on the first level. The second level hosts the main living, dining, and kitchen areas, offering extensive views of fields and hay bales. This floor also includes two bedrooms and a bathroom. A guest bathroom stands out with its metal wainscoting and tartan wallcovering, while a loft area incorporates a small office space and bunk beds, maximizing the use of space. Architect Mark Larson, along with associates John Kirk and Corey Pederson, and Robbie Hyland of HBRE, describe the project as an intriguing blend of agricultural and cabin aesthetics, a novel combination for their firm. The design process navigated the "healthy tension" between utility and comfort to find a balance where the lodge could serve both as a dedicated hunting cabin and a comfortable family retreat. This required careful coordination of three-dimensional form and space planning. The owner's frequent visits, particularly during hunting season and throughout the year, underscore the lodge's role as a personal sanctuary that reflects his lifelong passion and appreciation for the rustic elegance depicted in Redlin's art. #HuntingLodge #RusticDesign #ReclaimedWood #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #BarnConversion #TerryRedlin #MidwestHome

This article outlines the extensive range of timber products offered by Wickes, catering to various home renovation and garden landscaping projects. It emphasizes Wickes' reputation for supplying high-quality timber, including softwood, sawn kiln-dried, sawn treated, and studwork timber, all designed to provide flexibility and strength for a lasting finish, whether used indoors or outdoors. The article categorizes the timber products into several key areas, making it easier for customers to find specific materials for their needs. The range includes various timber supplies such as wall panels, all-purpose timber, trade timber, and planed square edge (PSE) timber, which are essential for structural and finishing work. Mouldings are also highlighted, offering decorative options for interior spaces. For outdoor projects, the article features garden and outdoor fencing, garden and railway sleepers, and timber decking boards, providing materials for constructing fences, raised beds, and outdoor living areas. Additionally, specialized timber products like wooden floorboards, skirting boards, shiplap cladding, timber scaffold boards, and timber roof battens are available for specific construction and renovation tasks. Cladding options are detailed, including exterior timber cladding and interior timber wall cladding, catering to both external weather protection and internal aesthetic enhancements. The article also covers various timber-related accessories and fixings, such as window sills and boards, staircase parts, joist and truss hangers, brackets and straps, and different types of timber fixings like multipurpose screws, exterior timber screws, and joinery nails. These supplementary products ensure that customers have all the necessary components for secure and effective timber installations. The goal is to assist customers in selecting the appropriate timber and associated materials for building furniture, erecting sheds, or undertaking comprehensive home renovations, ensuring their visions are brought to life with durable and high-quality supplies. #TimberSupplies #BuildingMaterials #HomeRenovation #GardenLandscaping #Woodworking #DIYProjects #ConstructionTimber

Tracy Guarino, an entrepreneur residing in Forest Hills, sought to infuse a sense of tranquility and modern Zen into her expansive 11,328-square-foot home. Collaborating with interior designer Ray Booth, the objective was to create a peaceful sanctuary that contrasted with Guarino's active professional life. The residence, situated within the gated community of Bancroft, presents a classic facade with Mediterranean architectural influences, featuring native stone, exotic wood, and a rust-colored barrel tile roof, extending across six acres. Inside, the home transitions into a modern aesthetic with an open floor plan, high ceilings, and a luxurious grayscale palette. Booth addressed the initial vastness of the space by incorporating floor-to-ceiling draperies made from Holly Hunt's 'Soft Spoken: Pale Silver' fabric. These semi-sheer panels create defined dining and living areas without fully enclosing them, offering a sense of intimacy and gentle transition. The draperies were instrumental in softening the previously 'cold and hard' interior, adding a crucial element of 'pause' before entering spaces like the master bedroom. Elegant details are found throughout the five-bedroom home. A hand-carved teak panel from Thailand and a Shakuff’s Kadur Drizzle multi-pendant chandelier contribute to the luxurious atmosphere. Guarino's passion for collecting is evident in various art pieces, including sculptures by Herb Williams made from crayons, an abstract commission by Ed Nash in the kitchen sitting room, and graphic artworks derived from the animated film 'Destino,' a collaboration between Walt Disney and Salvador Dalí. The master bedroom continues the theme of elegance with a velvety Italian carpet and a tufted gray chaise in the master bath. The outdoor space is designed to resemble a luxury resort, featuring a uniquely shaped infinity-edge swimming pool surrounded by cabanas and a secluded screened-in porch with an outdoor shower, which Guarino prefers over her exquisite indoor master bath shower. Functionality for entertaining and business is also a key aspect of the home's design, which includes a professional kitchen alongside the family kitchen, two offices, and a gift-wrapping room. The family kitchen, located strategically between Guarino's and her sons' bedrooms, serves as the home's social center. Ray Booth integrated 'appliance garages' made of Bendheim architectural glass in this space, allowing cabinets to be concealed for a seamless look. This kitchen is a central gathering point for Guarino's extended family, particularly on Sundays when she prepares large meals, reflecting her Italian heritage where the kitchen is considered the heart of the home. #ForestHills #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ZenAesthetic #ModernLuxury #RayBooth #NashvilleHomes #ArchitecturalGlass #ArtCollection

The article highlights the design and construction of the Modern Notch House, a residential project situated on an 11-acre plot within New Hampshire's White Mountains. The primary objective of the house's design was to maximize the integration of its natural surroundings through extensive use of large windows and doors. This modern home incorporates a variety of materials, including glass, steel, concrete, and high-density fiberglass, contributing to its contemporary aesthetic. The architect, Paul Lewandowski of Paul Designs Project, emphasized the importance of capturing the scenic views surrounding the property, which faces multiple natural landmarks. A pivotal aspect of the Notch House's design was the timely availability of Marvin Modern windows and doors, which perfectly aligned with Lewandowski's vision for large-scale glazing. The project utilized a range of Marvin products, specifically from their Modern Collection, including direct glaze, casement, and awning windows, as well as Ultimate sliding and swinging French doors. These selections were made to facilitate expansive views and natural light penetration throughout the home. Notably, the living room features three large direct glaze windows, each almost eight feet by twelve feet, which are described as a stunning focal point. Further demonstrating the commitment to natural integration, the main bedroom is equipped with wall-to-wall Ultimate Sliding doors, offering unobstructed access and views. The dining area benefits from airy Modern Casement Push Out windows, designed to enhance ventilation and connect inhabitants with the outdoors. Additionally, five wide, rectangular Modern Awning windows are strategically placed high above the living room, facing the front of the home, to aid in airflow and introduce more natural light into the main living space. Matt LeGeyt, an architectural project manager at Marvin, and Windows & Doors by Brownell were key players in bringing this vision to fruition. The Notch House project exemplifies a design philosophy that prioritizes the natural environment, utilizing advanced window and door technology to create a living space deeply connected to its wilderness setting. The project showcases how modern architectural elements and strategic material choices can coalesce to produce a residence that not only stands out aesthetically but also functionally embraces its geographical context. The integration of large glass elements transforms the home into an observation platform, allowing residents to experience the surrounding mountains and landscape from within. #ModernHomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #MarvinWindows #GlassArchitecture #WildernessLiving #Sustainability #NaturalLight #IndoorOutdoorFlow #NewHampshire

In a South Carolina workshop, a father-and-son team, John and Jay Leake of Leake Furniture Makers, are reviving the art of crafting cellarets. These lidded wooden liquor cases, featuring slide-out mixing boards and partitioned interiors for bottles, are mounted on tall-legged stands, serving as a homage to early Southern hospitality and an elegant addition to cocktail hour. John Leake, the sixty-year-old proprietor, notes that despite their historical significance, many people, even Southerners, are unfamiliar with cellarets, which he considers a quintessential Southern furniture piece. His son Jay, thirty-three, adds that a well-stocked cellaret was once a hallmark of a true Southern gentleman. The history of cellarets, also known as bottle, brandy, or gin cases, dates back to the 1700s in the Southern colonies, particularly coastal Maryland, the Roanoke River basin of Virginia and eastern North Carolina, and the Piedmont regions of both Carolinas. Their popularity extended into the early nineteenth century. These pieces emerged from the intersection of planter wealth and the abundant availability of alcohol, including Caribbean and Carolina rum, homemade cider and ale, and European wines, which were central to social gatherings. Daniel Kurt Ackermann, a curator at the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts, highlights that cellarets were integral to a range of domestic objects that transformed drinking into a performance rather than mere hydration. The Leakes are committed to recreating these historical pieces with meticulous attention to detail. Working individually on each piece, they dedicate approximately three labor-intensive weeks to complete a single cellaret. Their process begins with a detailed discussion with the client, followed by the careful selection of precise walnut boards, staying true to traditional materials. They may spend an entire day scrutinizing lumber to find a plank with the ideal grain and reddish-brown hue. The Leakes eschew modern manufacturing shortcuts such as plywood, veneers, CAD drawings, or preprinted plans. Their construction techniques involve hand-cutting dovetails for the fifteen-inch-cube case and fortifying the bases with pinned double-mortise-and-tenon joints. The lid, nearly an inch thick, is fitted in a floating, tongue-and-groove style, designed to accommodate the wood’s natural expansion and contraction with seasonal changes, preventing cracking. Ornamental details may include inlay work on the case or tiger maple cock beading on the drawer. The wood is finished with boiled linseed oil to enhance its color over time and shellac. They use solid-brass hardware from Connecticut, museum-quality locks from England, and bridle leather straps from Montana for the lid, all chosen for their durability and graceful aging. John Leake humorously notes that "The worst the piece ever looks is the day we complete it," implying their continuous improvement with age. Each cellaret is custom-built for a specific customer, never made on speculation. The Leakes work with a limited number of clients, typically twelve to fifteen annually, handling every stage of the process themselves, from unloading the raw lumber to delivering the finished product. This personalized approach emphasizes old-fashioned craftsmanship and person-to-person interaction, centered around a timeless pleasure. As a final touch during the ceremonial unveiling, the Leakes often include a bottle of the client's preferred spirit as a starter kit, further personalizing the experience. #MadeInTheSouth #SouthCarolina #HomeBar #Cellaret #SouthernHospitality #Craftsmanship #FurnitureMaking #Woodworking #HeirloomFurniture