By Keysha DrexelJournal editorWhen the Hutto family of Homewood wanted to create the perfect lakeside getaway, they didn't turn to architects, designers and construction crews.Instead, they went "shore shopping" around Smith Lake. and over the years, the family didn't just watch their dream lake house take shape--they built it with their own hands.From the door … [Read more...]
Going with the Flow
By Donna CorneliusJournal features writerThe 2014 Decorators’ ShowHouse inspired designers with its Mediterranean style, which includes spacious rooms and an open floor plan.But the openness of the 12,000-square-foot Villa D’Ambra in Hoover’s Greystone neighborhood also meant some designers had to use a bit of teamwork.The rooms chosen by Robin McCorquodale of … [Read more...]
Loggia Living
Allen WestbrookSummer Classics, BirminghamAllen Westbrook, designer and outdoor specialist at Summer Classics, said the house’s loggia “spoke to me. It’s the one space I really wanted to do.”ShowHouse officials ask decorators to bid on several rooms, he said.“But I didn’t bid on any others,” Westbrook said. “I really wanted that one.”The loggia, which … [Read more...]
Mini Man Cave
Ramona GriffinG& G Interior Design, BessemerWhen Ramona Griffin of G&G Interior Design participated in the ShowHouse for the first time last year, she created with a girl’s bedroom full of flounces and other feminine touches.This year, her ShowHouse space is decidedly different. A boy’s bedroom upstairs in the house was inspired by the great … [Read more...]
Butterflies with Breakfast
Jean ClaytonChristine’s, Mountain BrookThe breakfast room, created by Jean Clayton and her team at Christine’s in Mountain Brook Village, is so bright and cheerful that even waking up to a plain bowl of Cheerios could turn into a pleasant experience.Clayton said a new line by a well-known company was behind her decision to choose the breakfast room as her … [Read more...]