Southern Lady Gracious Homes 2012

Home. It’s where the heart is. It’s where you hang your hat. It’s the place where you eat and entertain, rest and rejuvenate, dream and dwell. In this special issue, we explore the elements of a house and the special touches that can turn it into a gracious home. From the welcome mat at the front door to the azaleas in the garden, every aspect of an abode plays an important part in creating an inviting atmosphere, and we’ll show you easy ways to incorporate charm into each and every room. You’ll also discover clever projects for quick updates, helpful decorating tips from top designers, and even personal tours through private homes. And whether this publication serves as a resource for your next room makeover or simply a way to…

Inside and out, thoughtful touches transform a house into a home. Family furnishings passed down through generations, fresh-cut flower arrangements straight from the garden, sparkling settings and vignettes designed to delight visitors—every gracious detail contributes to the overall ambiance that is the signature and soul of true hospitality. “HOME IS THE NICEST WORD THERE IS.” —LAURA INGALLS WILDER“SUNSHINE IS A WELCOME THING”. —JIMMIE DAVIS…

Living is rarely contained inside the walls of a house. It spills outside to back porches and patios and meanders down stone paths; it sits quietly in an ivydraped gazebo and listens to the song of a backyard fountain. Outdoor rooms and garden walkways offer opportunities to discover the wonders that abound throughout the grounds and surrounds. a second home The anticipation of a cooling breeze on days warmed through by sunshine is reason enough to extend the treasures of home beyond the front door. More than just visual adornments to dwellings, porches and gardens are interactive gathering places to pursue the same delights as those we seek indoors: replenishing solitude, the company of friends, and the familiar hallmarks of a cherished home. A WORLD OF WONDER AWAITS. JUST OPEN THE DOOR, AND…

A little bit of change can go quite a long way, especially when it comes to interior spaces. Possibilities are limitless when faux finishes and easy projects combine with a lot of imagination. Inexpensive items, such as a gallon of paint, a yard of fabric, and a tassel or two, are all the tools a savvy homeowner needs to infuse a room with personal style and panache. business sense Turn a blank wall into an artistic canvas with wall stencils that mimic wallpaper. Add depth to a plain seagrass rug by layering it with a Moroccan rug for a mosaic of tones and textures. Bring in a desk with presence to make a statement, and add a plush chair and artwork to achieve an inviting atmosphere. Fresh flowers and a French press,…

continental appeal European style lends its distinct charms to an airy living space. A mantel with della Robia– style carving, antique French candlesticks, and herringbonepatterned tile in the firebox—all are reminiscent of the great manor houses of Europe. clean design Since the homeowners have a large family that tends to congregate in the kitchen, the spacious floor plan offers plenty of room for cooking and conversing. An expansive island serves as the centerpiece, with a sleek and uncluttered design that provides storage as well as seating. “ACCESSIBLE DESIGN IS GOOD DESIGN”. —STEVE BALLMER refined dining A wrought-iron chandelier offers old-world elegance in this dining space. The weathered farmhouse table easily seats a crowd, while upholstered chairs provide a sophisticated juxtaposition that brings the look together. cozy retreat This home serves as both a weekend retreat and a summer…

sun spots Outdoor living is the best part of being a resident of Florida’s Alys Beach. Here, the homeowners take full advantage of the sun-splashed patio located in the central courtyard. Couches, pillows, outdoor lighting, and a surroundsound system make it the family’s favorite spot. serene dreams Seaside hues and laid-back luxury weave a common thread throughout this Mediterraneaninspired guest suite, where striking architectural details abound. All the essentials make it feel like home, but features like a faux fireplace filled with pillar candles and a grand Gothic-arch headboard create a true getaway experience. In the bath, sea green tile echoes the exquisite hue of the Gulf Coast waters just a short stroll away. relax & unwind This retreat features a comfortable gathering place for this family and their friends to enjoy the easy, breezy…