A Transitional Family Find

Stepping through the ornate front door, which boasts a transom window and pair of sidelights, visitors are immediately greeted with a sense of warmth. Existing in tandem with a soothing color palette and clean lines is a vibrant personality.

Wainscoting and crown molding are refined gestures and are accentuated by the curvature of two arched doorways. Sheer grommeted drapes brush the ground and appear next to a contemporary portrait from the Irvins’ wedding day, while varied throw pillows and a bouquet of fresh roses round out this informal seating space.

Around the corner is the heart of every home – the kitchen. Rich wooden cabinetry is punctuated with silver hardware, mimicking the finish of the stainless-steel appliances. Topping the lower cabinets are dark granite countertops, which also comprise the backsplash. A small island in the center of the room makes prepping a meal a breeze, and a pendant light overhead is coupled with recessed fixtures resulting in a bright, light-filled room.

This entire space is open to the dining area and family room which allows for a natural flow of conversation, and two white contemporary barstools are nestled up to the counter for more intimate discussions.

“I would consider our style to be a little transitional,” explains Tenesha. “We like neutral colors and for rooms to feel peaceful, but at the same time, we like to incorporate personal items that came from or remind us of a different place or time.”

Perhaps nowhere is more peaceful than the family’s informal dining room where stunning views take center stage. Adjacent to the living space, this area features a long glass-top table that is surrounded by six white leather parsons chairs. The dining room suite offers up a hint of modernity that, when paired with a more traditional brass chandelier, creates a fun and unique aesthetic. Sheer curtains again work to block harsh rays while still letting a gentle light shine through.

“We really enjoy entertaining, and the layout of this home works really well for foot traffic and helping people move and flow throughout the space,” says Jacques. “A lot of the rooms have a nice view, and there are also a lot of access points to the deck.”

On the top floor of the home is one of Tenesha’s all-time favorite spots. “I love our master bedroom because of how spacious it is,” she says. “It has a private balcony, so it has been really nice to be able to enjoy the outdoors and have privacy at the same time. I love seeing the sun come up, and I like to go sit out there with my morning coffee or when I need to clear my head.”

By contrast, one of Jacques’ favorite spaces is on the bottom level of the home and is a game room with all the trimmings. Complete with a pool table, foosball table, arcade games, and more, this space is perfect for catching a Saints game. “I enjoy this room because I’m from New Orleans, and it reminds me of home,” says Jacques.

Jayden, Jaylen, Jacques, and Tenesha Irvin

While the Irvins love their home for an array of reasons, it’s the connectivity that it has brought them that makes it so special. With nearly 6,000 square feet to boot, this home has allowed the Irvins to accommodate more friends and spend more quality time doing family activities that they enjoy.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to grow with this home and make a whole new set of memories,” says Tenesha. “We’re incredibly blessed to have found this house, and turning it into a home has been such a fun journey.”