By Candice Graham • Photos by Med Dement
Shady woods and a dirt road were all that existed when the Hacketts first visited their Signal Mountain property. “We had to put on our hiking boots and climb up rocks to get a feel for the views,” Beth recalls. “But when we left, we knew immediately we had to have it. It gives me chills to think about it now.”
Today, the property – which boasts sweeping views of Lookout, Raccoon, and the Blue Ridge Mountains – is the site of the Hacketts’ retreat-style home. After months of gathering design inspiration and consulting with experts, the couple has turned their vision of a mountain lodge into a reality. And in a funny twist of fate, it’s on the very same street as their first Signal Mountain home.
The exterior makes use of stacked stone, cedar shake siding, and wood accents, while the interior has a mountain modern aesthetic. The living room has the feel of a rustic lodge, but also features clean, contemporary touches. White pine trusses highlight the room’s high arched ceilings, while a large picture window showcases miles and miles of mountainous views. “We wanted to bring the outside in. We never get tired of the scenery,” Beth says. Built-in bookshelves flank a stacked-stone fireplace for a cozy touch, and ruby-toned accents add richness to the striking space.
Just off the living room, the kitchen features eye-catching accents like an elegant range hood and two blown glass light fixtures that illuminate the space with a candle-like glow. Knotty cherry cabinetry is paired with a sandy-toned tile backsplash, creating a full spectrum of warm browns. “We wanted a woodsy feel, so we went with shades of browns and buttercream,” Beth says. While cooking at the center walnut butcher block island, the couple can enjoy scenic views of the river and mountains in the distance.
Wrought iron barstools with leather seats and a nearby breakfast nook offer casual seating options, while an adjacent dining room is ready for large holiday gatherings. “We hadn’t fully moved in last Thanksgiving, but we still had everyone over for dessert,” says Mark, explaining they plan on hosting many family get-togethers in the space. The room’s warm, neutral wall color is accentuated by sophisticated furniture and woodsy art, and above the large dining table a rectangular light fixture with pillar candles gives off a warm glow.
Nearby, floating stairs lead to the home’s finished basement. On the landing wall, light filters in through a vertical stained glass window designed by the couple’s daughter. Bright primary colors lend a pop of jewel-toned vibrancy, while clear sections reveal a view of the backyard.
In the master bedroom, walls painted a calm green reflect the treetops visible through the large windows. “We enjoy how it feels almost like a treehouse,” Beth says. A tiered tray ceiling creates the sense of a cocoon, with each level painted a shade lighter than the walls. A cream-colored rug sets off the room’s rich wooden furniture, while bedding in a beautiful flowering vine pattern lends visual interest.
The attached master bathroom features built-in cabinetry with a furniture feel. Open spaces at the bottom allow for neat towel storage and a granite vanity top sets off two white vessel sinks. Ceramic tile floors lead to a walk-in shower with a pebble floor.
Outside, a large deck has multiple seating areas for relaxation and entertainment. One surrounds a fire pit, while another is grouped in front of a stone hearth and television for a true outdoor living room feel. A heater allows the family to gather outside well into the autumn months. The lush treetop hideaway feels comfy and secluded, yet lets in miles of rolling vistas below. “It’s my favorite view of Chattanooga,” Mark says. “You feel like you’re away from everything here. When you come home, the weight of the day is lifted.”
