“Working with this family was such a pleasure,” Stinson shares. “They had amazing ideas and fully trusted our guidance to point them in the right direction with design, construction, and materials. They invested in timeless materials that make this home truly custom.” These thoughtful design choices are evident even from the curb. High-pitched gables partner with window dormers and an arched entryway to establish a stately exterior. White-painted brick calls to mind shining limestone estates, with unique masonry details to match. As a unique flourish, copper drainpipes add a rich pop of color, and over time, the patina will contribute to its timeless façade.
To see more from Cain Development, LLC, visit caindevelopment.org.
Doors, ironwork, and windows: East Chattanooga Lumber & Supply Co.
The interiors of the home strike a balance between traditional luxury and contemporary comforts. “My clients wanted a bright and airy space with warmth added in thoughtful wood touches and muted colors,” says Stinson. “We thought through every detail of how they would live in the space while adding personality to each room through the materials that we chose.”
Thanks to the flexibility of this design style, the Cain Development team could tailor each space for the homeowners’ needs. The dining room, for example, is an elegant space for more formal occasions, so the details lean more traditional. Reminiscent of historic homes, the walls here are customized with picture frame molding, giving depth to the bright walls. The breezy, naturally-lit ambience is grounded by rustic and antique furnishings, making this a lovely setting for special occasions. Meanwhile, other spaces in the home showcase the same grandeur in more relaxed tones.
Drapery and shades: River Valley Blinds, Shades & Shutters
Stepping into the living room, guests are greeted with a serene space awash in neutrals and warm elements. The stately plaster mantel anchors the room, while wood beams above layer visual interest. “Staying true to the elegance in French country homes while creating a comfortable space for a family to live and kids to play was our biggest challenge,” says Stinson. “We didn’t want to overdo the house and make it feel like they were living in a museum – we wanted to bring in details that made the spaces unique. We worked together to find a balance between beautiful and livable and chose materials that would be durable without losing the aesthetic and elegance we were working towards.”
This kitchen invites the blend of French country and Southern charm into the heart of the home. A small dining vignette pairs with a large island to provide easy, informal seating in an elevated space. Customized storage offers both beauty and function, including glass-front cabinets for decorative dishware display. Stinson adds, “There are so many hidden details in the cabinets, and we were able to add functional appliance garages throughout the butler’s pantry, leaving a clean countertop.” The finishes here invite texture and shine into the room, such as tiger grain wood, natural stone veining, and cane barstools.
Countertops: Granite Warehouse
“This home is timeless. We avoided trends and looked to history to find our inspiration. The colors, materials, and details will never age out, and that was our main goal. We wanted something that will be looked back on years from now to find inspiration.” –Ashley Stinson, Cain Development, LLC
Each space in this charming build is given equal care. French doors open to a streamlined office, complete with built-ins and decorative wall molding. The design of this room offers an easy sightline into the living area, helping a working parent stay connected with a busy family. Meanwhile, a resort-like bathroom offers the perfect place to unwind from a long day. Floor-to-ceiling polished tile creates an unblemished backdrop for spa-level comfort. The subtle yet important detail of polished nickel fixtures gives the room an indistinguishable warmth, amplified by accent lighting.
Closets: Creekside Closets, LLC
Whether in the south of France or the Scenic City, no home would be complete without a porch to soak in the scenery. This back patio is an effortless extension of the main living areas, offering a fully outfitted outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and easy access to the backyard for family games and activities. From start to finish, the design goals of Stinson and the Cain Development team have come to fruition: “to create a home that was both elegant and comfortable and that would never go out of style.”
Other suppliers:
Appliances: AllSouth Appliance Group, Inc.
Architect: Wilder Roots Interior Design
Artwork: Mango’s Décor & Co.
Brick and tile: Acme Brick, Tile & Stone
Cabinetry: Chase Construction
Custom painting: Rocky Top Painting
Fireplace: Therm-Con
Flooring: Hank’s Carpet & Flooring
Furniture: Bassett Furniture
Hardscaping: Gartman Landscaping and Excavation, LLC
Landscaping: Circle T Construction
Lighting and plumbing fixtures: Ferguson
Outdoor kitchen: Manuel’s Masonry
