We didn’t think the Blue Ridge mountains could get any more gorgeous, but it has happened. Atlanta architect D. Stanley Dixon and interior designer Heather Dewberry have made even more magic in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. We know. We’re really excited too! From the wood elements to the color palette it’s utter perfection at every turn. We hope you enjoy as much as we do!
Thanks so much for making Design Chic a part of your day. We always love seeing you here!
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!
Good morning, chic readers! Happy February 15! We hope you had a great Valentine’s Day and, if you’re feeling the post-celebration letdown and are looking for something else to celebrate, we’ve got you covered: The launch party for my fourth novel The Secret to Southern Charm is one month from today at the historic Elizabeth Barnwell Gough House in Beaufort, SC to benefit the Pat Conroy Literary Center! Space is limited so get your tickets now! (Official release April 3 from Simon & Schuster.)
If that wasn’t enough, one of our favorite architects, Patrick Ahearn, has a new book out.
If you’re a longtime Design Chic reader, you know we have had a long-standing love affair with Ahearn’s work.
A coffee table book can sometimes be a bit of a “Will I love the book as much as the movie?” type of thing…
But we can confidently say that this compilation showcases some of Ahearn’s very best work–and we don’t have to tell you that we are always excited to see his new, unpublished designs!
Relaxed, casual spaces perfect for breakfast with kids…
More traditional, family dining areas great for hosting guests,
And charming entryways and mudrooms make for an ideal vacation spot.
We love the architectural details in Ahearn’s interiors, but the exteriors might be even more fabulous.
A pretty poolhouse with with an idyllic fireplace is perfect for year-round outdoor lounging.
A perfectly manicured yard is the icing on the cake.
Needless to say, this is a book of dream houses–and ultimate inspiration. We know this is one we will return to again and again–and we think you will too!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the victims in the tragic Florida shooting.
Resolving to read more this year? Pick up your copy of Slightly South of Simple, the first novel in my Peachtree Bluff series, and preorder book 2, The Secret to Southern Charm, releasing April 3! I’m so grateful for the support of my readers!
Hi, chic readers! We spent the day doing a hygge photo shoot for a magazine, surrounded by furry throws, hide rugs, lit candles, and of course, a roaring fire–with the air conditioner cranked down the 65. While we love the hygge trend, it felt funny to be decorating for winter in the dog days of August! But it’s always fun to look toward the season ahead.
This fabulous Euclid Traditional by the uber-talented Amy Berry Design hits all the high notes of summer. You’ll see what we mean, especially when you get to the porch!
While it was fun to get a glimpse of winter, we were glad to come back to our summer digs, with the light, fun patterns, the natural fibers, the fresh flowers…
And, we have to say, looking at these gorgeous rooms, this stunning space would look amazing in any season.
Barry is so wonderful at mixing the old and the new, at combining an antique rug with new upholstery, an antique piece of furniture with fresh accessories, making the entire thing come off as updated but with a sense of history.
If we had to choose one word to describe her interiors, we think it would be inviting.
This is the kind of home where, after you walk through the door, you want to stay awhile.
Speaking of seasonal decor, this sunny space makes it feel like summer even what lies beyond the door is less than toasty!
We adore the incredibly tailored look of this bedroom. It’s crisp, neat and finished–with just the right amount of monogram!
Library lamps are one of our favorite trendy items that we think everyone should have at least a couple of. Cozy reading nooks are always welcome–especially as we prepare to transition to cooler weather.
You think the inside is good? Just wait until you see the outside!
You know we love outdoor spaces that are an extension of the indoors, and this porch fits that bill perfectly. Every detail is gorgeous!
Chic chaises top our outdoor wishlist. This Carolina blue with white piping is so summery and equally as elegant. We’d love lounging here!
Thanks so much for touring this gorgeous home with us. We love it when you stop by!
What People are Saying About Slightly South of Simple:
“My prediction is that writers come and writers go, but Kristy Woodson Harvey is here to stay. The warmth, wit, and wisdom of this novel pave her way into the exclusive sisterhood of southern writers.” (—The Huffington Post)
And we are thrilled to have been nominated by Amara as a Best Luxury Blog and would so appreciate you for voting for us here!
We believe that outdoor spaces should coordinate with indoor ones, be an extension of the home’s decor–but, perhaps, with a touch more color and whimsy.
With a view like this, you can’t help but want to get outside! Needless to say, these stunning photos have done nothing to cure our Spring fever! Are you sprucing your porch for spring?
Only Two Weeks Until Slightly South of SimpleReleases! Coming up next week. we’ll be giving away a gorgeous Ferragamo Darina bag from our friends at Reebonz–so stay tuned for that.
NYC Friends, fun news! I have 5 tickets to my official launch at the 92nd St Y to give away! I’ll be talking about Slightly South of Simple and giving tips for Decorating Small NYC Spaces. Email me at [email protected] to claim your ticket!
After weeks of high sixties and mid-seventies temperatures here, it has finally gotten cold. We’ll never quite understand North Carolina weather, how it is seventy-five and then, all of a sudden, with no warning, you wake up and it’s thirty-two and it stays that way for months. But, it actually makes us kind of excited, the cold weather.
The days are shorter, the weather is cooler and there is oh so much to celebrate! If the colder temperatures have you stuck indoors, now is the perfect time to start thinking about creating that gorgeous outdoor space you’ve been dreaming of–complete with an outdoor fireplace, of course!
The perfect place to start? Our friends at The Natural Stone Institute! Their beautiful site is an information-filled resource for anyone looking to incorporate more natural stone into his or her home. From tips on which material works best in which space to help finding a competent installer in your area, The Natural Stone Institute is filled with ideas to get you well on your way to that slate patio or stone fireplace of your dreams!
Swimming pools are one of our favorite outdoor features that make backyards so much more fun! The addition of a stone border allows this one to blend in with the nature around it and keeps it from feeling out of place in the environment.
For a fireplace, stone is the perfect choice, of course! Not only does it withstand heat and elements, but it also complements the beauty of the surroundings.
When looking for a more cost-effective solution for implementing a stone motif in your outdoor space, choosing something that can be sourced locally is always a great place to start. This redstone creates a unique look that makes this kitchen a perfect gathering spot for a good meal.
Travertine is a luxe and singularly fabulous look in an outdoor space. We’re drooling! Travertine is extremely durable, but isn’t the best pick for sub-freezing temperatures.
Limestone has similar qualities–but in this island paradise, we’re pretty sure that sub-freezing temperatures won’t be a problem! Don’t forget to visit Use Natural Stone before that patio–or kitchen–redesign.
Will you be utilizing your outdoor space this holiday season? Warm or cold, indoors or out, we’re hope you’re preparing for a wonderful Thanksgiving!
