Craftsman Meets Modern

Finding the Flow

Once inside the home, its expansive nature can truly be appreciated. Rooms run together with unparalleled fluidity while simultaneously managing to reserve their distinct character. “The largest design feat we probably dealt with was just tackling flow,” Caughman says. “We had a formal living space in the very front and a living area in the back and a kitchen right in the middle. We had to figure out how to get people from one space to the other without feeling like we were marching them straight through the kitchen.” To see more from Caughman + Caughman Architects, visit caughmanarchitects.com.

In order to accomplish his goal, Caughman needed something visually heavy to separate and anchor the kitchen. A lengthy and thick center island with quartz waterfall countertops did the trick and affords enough space for this family of six. Globe pendant lights provide a mid-century modern flair that is accentuated by a set of clear-seat barstools with warm gold frames. Adding to the warmth in this room are flat walnut bottom cabinets that are skillfully paired with upper white shaker cabinetry for a stark contrast. Tucked right next to the kitchen is a stylish wet bar that allows guests to grab a cocktail without entering the kitchen.

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“With an older house like this one that has been remodeled several times, it’s always a challenge to come in after other people have done their work. I love it whenever we can mimic the original nature of a home and make it look like an old house that is thriving in a modern era with everything still intact.”

Steve Ward, Sun Construction

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Appliances and lighting and plumbing fixtures: Ferguson

Countertops and tile: Stone Source, Inc.

This former porch-turned-seating sensation uses the original dropped ceilings to create a quaint and cozy atmosphere. Just out of frame, a large cased opening provides access to the home’s casual dining area while still providing this room with some definition and purpose. “We’re constantly walking the line between having spaces be open and too open, so it’s really about finding that balance,” says Caughman.

By traveling down the large circulation path that runs alongside the kitchen, visitors can access the home’s great room. Here, a flat-screen TV rests on the back wall and is bookended with built-ins placed above the same walnut cabinetry that can be found in the kitchen. “Another balancing act was keeping the people somewhat close to the TV while still maintaining this pathway that really runs from the front door to the back porch,” says Caughman.

A set of sliding French doors sits at the end of the pathway and draws guests outside. Here, a small space delivers on an array of functions. A grilling area gives way to a wooden dining table, while a wood-burning stone fireplace serves as a focal point.

“The back porch is a great example of trying to stay true to the home’s style,” explains Ward. “We put a lot of effort into making sure the siding along the back of the house matched the original and embraced the arts-and-crafts style.”

Interior doors, trim, and windows: East Chattanooga Lumber & Supply Co.

Back inside the home, a vestibule adjacent to the kitchen signifies to visitors that they are entering private quarters. The main floor master suite is an oasis all its own with additional space for watching TV or reading a book. Continuing further into the space leads to a tranquil bathroom. Porcelain tiles carry from the area above the vanity down to the floor and work their way up to cloak the shower walls. A basket weave pattern is centered in front of a freestanding tub and provides some interest while keeping the room relaxing and bright. “This room, just like everything else in this home, has the exact space it needs,” explains Caughman. “I’m not a fan of making spaces big just for the sake of being big. If you give every area in your home a function and the proper amount of space, then everything just sort of falls together.”

Other Suppliers:

Cabinetry: Tony Cordell  |  Flooring: Kenworthy Hardwood Flooring  |  Fireplace: America’s Hearth & Patio Warehouse  |  Landscaping: Legacy Turf Management  |  Shower door: Therm-Con  |  Stone: Stephens Masonry  |  Tile installation: Dean Feinauer