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House Tour: Cottage on Lake Keowee

There’s no doubt about it: Fall is in the air. It’s still 85 degrees here on the Carolina coast, but there’s something about the air here that starts to get a little clearer that makes us know it will be here soon. The pumpkins everywhere don’t hurt either!

So, sure, houses are made for all seasons, but this fabulous Lake Keowee Cottage, designed by Architect Timothy S. Adams and Westbrook Interiors in this month’s Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, just feels like fall to us.

This is the kind of fireplace that is made for crackling logs on crisp fall nights and freezing December days.

And the room around it begs to be curled up in!

With Halloween parties and Thanksgiving dinner and all the wonderful occasions that Fall brings, this dining room is the perfect blend of comfortable sophistication that feels festive but never fussy.

And a place to prepare all those wonderful holiday meals?

No problem!

And, of course, a celebration is in order!

Fall is our favorite time to be outdoors (Okay, okay… We’re sure we say that about summer and spring too…) and this spectacular setting is ideal for a hike or a paddle or a row.

And there’s something about stone and wood that makes us think of the change of seasons, of cooler temperatures and turning leaves.

There’s nothing not to love about this Lake Keowee Cottage any season of the year!

Have you begun preparing your home for Fall?

Thanks so much for stopping by Design Chic today. We always love seeing you here!

Emily Followill Photography

If you’re looking for something to read, make sure to grab a copy of THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM , one of Southern Living‘s best beach reads, to slip in your tote.

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“The Secret to Southern Charm is a compelling, beautifully drawn tale of love, hope, and small town secrets. The richly detailed backdrop of a charming coastal town and the struggles and joys of four generations of women solidifies Kristy Woodson Harvey’s spot as a rising star of Southern fiction.”(Mary Alice Monroe, New York Times bestselling author of Beach House for Rent. )

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FOR MORE INSPIRATION VISIT OUR INSTAGRAM AND PINTEREST AND OUR TOP TEN POSTS OF 2017 HERE!

In Good Taste: Haver & Skolnick Architects

Haver & Skolnick Architects via Dering Hall

Good morning, chic friends! We hope your week is off to a great start! We’re just getting home from a fabulous trip to Sea Island, GA. (If you didn’t get a chance to check out the amazing Sea Island house we featured yesterday, don’t miss it!)

The weather was perfect, the house we stayed in was beyond and my The Secret to Southern Charm talk and signing in the spectacular Club Room of the Cloister was honestly one of my favorite events to date, which is really saying something!

Speaking of fabulous houses, Haver & Scolnick Architects know a thing or two about creating them. One peek at the architectural details in this chic butler’s pantry and it’s evident that everything else is going to follow suit.

The kitchen is certainly the heart of the home, and this one is so warm and cozy that we can’t think of a better place to gather family and friends for a delicious meal and a good chat.

These architects absolutely know how to set the tone of a space. Rustic beams add an old world charm and feel.

This is organization at its absolute finest. Chic storage is always welcome–and welcoming!

A dedicated gardening space is one of our dream rooms. These architects make it a reality!

As fabulous as the indoor spaces are, the outdoor spaces are even better. But aren’t they always?

We would absolutely live in these divine outdoor living spaces.

Every little nook is expertly thought out and perfectly curated.

And character oozes from every space.

From barns to living rooms, indoors or out, we think the work of Haver and Skolnick Architects is always in good taste!

Thanks so much for stopping by today. We always love it when you do!

If you’re planning your Summer vacation, make sure to grab a copy of THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM , one of Southern Living‘s best beach reads, to slip in your tote.

The Secret To Southern Charm Tour

September 13: Chapel Hill, NC Event, Details TBA

September 21: Cashiers, NC Library Event, Details TBA

September 21: Chattooga Club Speakers Bureau Event, Cashiers, NC, Details TBA

October 3: Houston, TX Women’s Club Breakfast, 7 am

October 4: Pink Ribbon Project Luncheon and Purse Auction, 11 am-1 pm, Wilmington Convention Center, Wilmington, NC

October 11-14: Poppy Con 2018, Tall Poppy Writers Retreat, Chicago, IL, private event

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FOR MORE INSPIRATION VISIT OUR INSTAGRAM AND PINTEREST AND OUR TOP TEN POSTS OF 2017 HERE</a

House Tour: Beach Cottage Chic

With summer officially here and beach season in full swing, we thought it made sense to tour an amazing beach house today–as if we need an excuse! This home designed by the talented Tory Haynes and built by Dearborn Builders is the perfect mix of updated beauty and that classic, beach cottage chic that makes this the kind of place we would want to come back to again and again.

Juxtaposition is one of our favorite things in pretty much all facets of life, and this kitchen nails it! This range is like a gorgeous piece of jewelry and the blue backsplash is an update on a classic style. The drawers and cabinets are a simple throwback. We absolutely love them!

Speaking of a throwback… Get out the puzzles, please! Beach time is made for board games and card games and seeing who can find the corner pieces. We love the idea of putting away the electronics for some real bonding.

Is this dining porch amazing or what? This is simple beauty in all its glory. Forgive us for staring!

Wood paneling and exposed brick are beach house touches that make a house feel like a home. This one is so incredibly inviting!

Here it is again in the bathroom, that mix of modern and classic that makes us adore this home so very much!

Why have a sink when you can have a wash basin?

The neutrals are so great here, and we love the addition of the perfect beach blues throughout.

We are big, huge fans of an outdoor shower, and this one looks so fun! The stripes are adorable and add a whimsical touch to the classic exterior of the home.

The outside is just as big on beach house style as the inside is. We don’t know about you, but we could move right in–at least for the summer! Do you like classic touches in a home or are you a fan of more modern styles?

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

FOR MORE INSPIRATION VISIT OUR INSTAGRAM AND PINTEREST AND OUR TOP TEN POSTS OF 2017 HERE!

TALK AND SIGNING

If you are in the Raleigh area, I will be at Quail Ridge Books on Thursday, June 21 at 11am for a TALK and SIGNING with the fabulous Mary Alice Monroe. We would LOVE to see you there!

More The Secret to Southern Charm Events

June 20: Luncheon with Mary Alice Monroe benefiting Beaufort Historical Society in Beaufort, NC; luncheon at Coral Bay Club; ticketed event, Contact is Patricia Suggs, [email protected]; 252-728-5225; open to the public

June 21: Quail Ridge Books, Raleigh, NC, 11 am, Talk and Signing with Mary Alice Monroe

July 11: Coral Bay Club Book Club, Atlantic Beach, NC, 12 pm, private event

July 17: Ladies Day Luncheon at Dunes Club, Atlantic Beach, NC, 12 pm, private event

July 18: Blue Cross Blue Shield Event, Palmetto Bluff, SC, private event

July 28: Country Club of the Crystal Coast Author Dinner, Pine Knoll Shores, NC, 5 pm, Open to the Public, $19.95 and includes dinner

July 31: Quarter Moon Books, Topsail Beach, NC, 6-8 pm, Kristy Woodson Harvey and Amy Reichert in Conversation, Wine and Cheese Provided, free and open to the public

August 3: Cocktails and Conversation at The Cloister, 5-6 pm, 100 Cloister Dr, Sea Island, GA, open to the public

September 13: Chapel Hill, NC Event, Details TBA

September 21: Cashiers, NC Library Event, Details TBA

September 21: Chattooga Club Speakers Bureau Event, Cashiers, NC, Details TBA

October 3: Houston, TX Women’s Club Breakfast, 7 am

October 4: Pink Ribbon Project Luncheon and Purse Auction, 11 am-1 pm, Wilmington Convention Center, Wilmington, NC

October 11-14: Poppy Con 2018, Tall Poppy Writers Retreat, Chicago, IL, private event

In Good Taste: David Kleinberg Design

David Kleinberg Design Associates via Dering Hall

It may be snowing all across NC today, but, even still, last weekend was time for a little Spring cleaning!

A super fun photo shoot with Serena & Lily (stop by tomorrow to see our Spring spruce!) inspired us to clean up, clear out and pare down.

Needless to say, the house feels lighter, brighter and oh-so-good–and so do we!

The good taste of David Kleinberg makes us feel that exact same way!

Perfectly accessorized but never overdone, his designs feel calming, refreshing and terrifically uncluttered.

His own Upper East Side apartment (pictured here!) is a study in color, texture and high style.

But whether he’s designing for himself or a client, Kleinberg always leaves his mark.

In more formal, traditional spaces,

Or more beautifully rustic ones,

Kleinberg’s work always speaks for itself–and is the perfect way to get inspired to do a little Spring cleaning of your own! Spring Break will be here before we know it!

Speaking of Spring Break, my latest novel, THE SECRET TO SOUTHERN CHARM, releases on April 3, right in the thick of Spring Break! And, Southern Living just named it one of its “Best Spring Break Reads.” Hooray! Now is the perfect time to preorder!

We know y’all know our fab friend Jeanne McKay Hartmann. Have you ever seen anything as adorable as these beautiful illustrated cards that she made to go with The Secret to Southern Charm? We know we haven’t! Shoes, champagne and sweet tea… What else does a girl need? For more of her gorgeousness, check follow her on Instagram at @jeannemckayhartmann!

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In Good Taste: Janie Molster Designs

Good morning, chic readers! We are so excited to have the fabulous Janie Molster, with us today, answering our burning questions–and lending a few tips! Thanks for stopping by, Janie, and for sharing your gorgeous work with us.

How did you get started as a designer?

My friend had business cards printed for me. I think everyone close to me could see this path for me, except me. Once I dove in, it became crystal clear. I had always been somewhat obsessed about my environment–staying up all night in rental apartments painting the walls until they were exactly right, etc. When my husband and I bought our first house and I was able to flex my design muscle a bit more, I got some calls and requests for advice and help and and here we are.

Where do you get your inspiration?

I have been asked that question before and honestly, my answer changes constantly. Last night I received a couple of new shelter magazines and sending a quick shout-out to my design industry peers–YOU inspire me! I love to see what other people are creating and I love to watch trends. I may not hop on every one but creativity breeds more creativity. Following others in my field and having an inspiration group to bounce ideas off of is so valuable to me.

Do you have a favorite project to date? Or a favorite type of project that tends to be your favorite?

It’s often the last project. I begin missing my clients and our frequent talks and trouble-shooting sessions. We call it “uncoupling”…very hard. Right now I am in the midst of something wonderful: a large lodge in the Allegheny mountains. The lodge sits adjacent to another project we have done for the same clients (our 5th project for them). Needless to say, we have a great understanding of each other and things are coming together seamlessly. The lodge will be a second home on the property with a few bedrooms as well as entertaining spaces geared for large events–almost like a mini-conference center with a residential perspective. There are some amazing craftsmen on the project. Stay tuned.

What is your favorite tip for making small spaces feel larger?

Use fewer, bigger pieces and edit, edit edit. People tend to think in a small space, use small furniture and clutter things up with teensy tables and chairs. Also important is to use large room-size rugs that hug the perimeter of the space.

What is the biggest challenge you face as a designer?

Skilled labor. The trades that I rely on daily are harder and harder to find. Fyi…we are always hiring: Conservationists who can repair antique furnishings and art, seamstresses who can produce couture-quality window dressings, custom upholsterers, decorative painters, etc.

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment to date?

No question, mothering 5 children. If I can share any wisdom to other designers, especially those in the throes of parenting, always choose family first. I am blessed that my career has successfully weathered the storm of a few years of intermittent attention. There were times when I was barely keeping my foot in the door of the design world–so I guess that’s the answer. Biggest accomplishment: Keeping my foot in the door.

Are there any designers that particularly inspire you?

I am in love with all of the upholstery designs by John Saladino. His pieces were innovative on day 1 and they never feel dated. I also love what Susan Ferrier is doing with McAlpine. While her work had a moody edginess about it, she fully embraces femininity. She doesn’t shy away from pretty–she sets it on fire.

Ebooks or hardbacks?

Hardbacks for sure. Give me a rainy day and stack of my dog-eared design books–Nirvana.

M&Ms or Skittles?

green peanut M&M’s…they bring good luck 🙂

Coffee or tea?

coffee. Can’t tie my shoes in the am without it.

Favorite color?

pink, every shade

Accessory you couldn’t live without?

personal?

It’s the leather lariat I have worn every day for years. It’s light and simple–I can run, swim and sleep in it. It fits snug around my neck and has a simple gold ball at the end. My dear friend, Atlanta jewelry designer Jeanmarie Quarterman made it for me.

decorative?

My collection of vessels and sculptures by New Orleans artist Julie Silvers that move around my house all the time–looking perfect in every room.

Go-to paint color?

Love trim and doors in Galveston Gray by Benjamin Moore.

Thank you so much for stopping by today, Janie! We loved having you here–and couldn’t love your beautiful designs any more!

I am so, so, so excited to share that Slightly South of Simple has been chosen as a Kindle monthly deal so, from today until April 1, you can read the first book in the Peachtree Bluff series for only $1.99–just in time for the The Secret to Southern Charm release on April 3.

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In Good Taste: Kelly Nutt Interior Design

Happy Tuesday, chic readers! We are so excited to share the good taste of Kelly Nutt with you today! Crisp, clean interiors with just the right amount of personality are hallmarks of this talented designer’s style. Take a break, take a peek, and let us know which space is your favorite!

Thank you so much for making Design Chic a part of your day!

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Our Top Ten Posts of 2017

For more inspiration visit our Instagram and Pinterest

I can’t believe that The Secret to Southern Charm will be hitting shelves in less than two months! If you want to know a little more check out this video of me attempting to describe my new novel… In five seconds or less!

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