Southern Lady Autumn in the South 2015

as the branches begin their annual turn to scarlet and gold and the air takes on that telltale crispness, I am once again amazed by the beauty of autumn in the South. The gentle rustling of the leaves seems to issue an invitation to come celebrate the harvest, to revel in the splendor of golden days, to enjoy every single moment of this wondrous time of year. As we welcome fall, the staff at Southern Lady happily embraces all the delights that abound in this colorful season. Influenced by the vibrant palettes and resources found in the great outdoors, we have created an issue that showcases our favorite decorating and entertaining ideas, as well as offers fun ways to get out and enjoy the world around you. With this special issue, we…

Rustic Realm From cotton to pumpkins, the harvest provides hearty inspiration for seasonal décor. Greet guests with a basket of autumn delights by the front door, or compose a collection of gourds and pinecones in various candleholders for a simple yet pretty tabletop display. Festive Flourish An arranged basket of flowers in jewel tones brings the richness of autumn hues to the garden gate. Continue the seasonal theme with mini arrangements in hollowed-out pumpkins at each place setting. A few strategic bits of grapevine or twine lend a “nested” feel to the look. Autumnal Accents Add signs of fall to everyday décor around the house. Incorporate subtle yet festive frills by draping a chandelier in vines of bittersweet. Further the fall transformation by including accents of the season on a hutch or cabinet. Fill baskets…

Pretty Perch Try this layered look with a stack of pumpkins separated with “nests” of pine straw. Be sure to choose gourds with relatively flat bottoms to keep things on an even keel. Also consider flanking the steps with assorted pumpkins and containers planted with bunches of mums. The Softer Side For a different take on autumn décor, try a display that uses groupings of gourds in the same color family. Popular pumpkin picks include ‘Green Hubbard’, ‘Blue Max’, and ‘Silver Moon’. This focused, monochromatic approach allows you to bring in subtle hues that nod to the season while also complementing your home’s exterior palette. Warm Welcome Visitors may never get past the porch when the spaces are this inviting! Mix a dozen or so plump pumpkins with several baskets of fall flowers in a…

Southern Classic Antique cypress doors fitted with wrought-iron grids open into the home of Pam and Tony Gann in North Alabama. From wooden beams to painted bead board, classic elements of Southern design are found throughout their inviting abode. A palette of warm tones infuses each and every space with an air of comfortable elegance that’s just right for a young family. Designer Beverly Farrington from Accents of the South helped shape the vision by highlighting architectural features of the house while also including the Gann’s personal collections and treasures to ensure a welcoming feel. Timeless Beauty The sitting room is anchored by a rug in muted shades, echoing the quiet color scheme. Paneled walls and the mantel above the Carrara marble fireplace bear a lacquer finish in warm white. Adding to the…

Southern Style Long before the foundation was poured, the homeowner began combing her favorite shops and antiques dealers for the beautiful furnishings and befitting accessories that bring both warmth and a relaxed elegance to the home. Inspired by Spode’s Woodland china pattern, the décor and the color palette throughout honor the cottage’s rural location, where wildlife and nature abound. From the snuggle-down bed in the master suite to the monogrammed wing chair beside the hearth to the personal touches in each room, this weekend place is every bit as polished and comfortable as the couple’s in-town residence. Porch Views The homeowners’ favorite feature is the screened porch, where a cushionplumped settee and a pair of spindle-back rockers offer a front-row seat to the symphony of evening sounds found only in the peaceful countryside.…

Cottage Charm For fine artist Sue Key and her husband, Jim, an empty nest initiated a change of pace and a change of space as a couple.They downsized to this cottage with interesting elements such as multilevels, angled rooms, and quirky architectural features. Sue’s eye for style helped them make it their own. Artist in Residence Sue’s approach to decorating is not unlike her art. The natural, neutral hues are similar to the rich browns and taupes she uses in her nature-inspired paintings, which are displayed in every room of the home. Cohesive colors throughout the house create a sense of unity, and it allows the artist to interchange furnishings and accessories on a whim while maintaining a consistent look. Sue also considers the rooms the way she would a framed canvas, arranging…