By Alexandra Hruz
Photography by Med Dement
Sprawling mountain-top residences, modern downtown lofts, lakeside retreats, and renovated historical properties— they’re all options thanks to our region’s diverse terrain and rich past. For this home, deep in the Harrison countryside, the homeowners’ desire for a lodge-style residence, like those seen in Wyoming, fueled the design and resulted in an opulent abode that’s ideal for retreating from the bustle of modern life.
At the end of a cul-de-sac, this home gracefully rises from the lush landscape. An arched overhang with solid rock columns creates an awe-inspiring front entrance, and the beauty of the exterior is a perfect portend for the home’s unbelievable design inside.
After walking through the heavy wood double doors, brought in from New Mexico, the true splendor of the home is evident. Arched tongue and groove ceilings with incredible beams are architecturally astounding, while huge windows at the back of the home cascade light throughout the space. A lofty stacked stone fireplace adds rustic character and drama, further incorporating the “Wyoming Lodge” theme.
“Some of the columns in the home are old timber, with original paint still on them,” architect Louis Wamp says. “The structure beams are Douglas Fir from Washington State, and many of the other beams throughout are 100-year-old heart pine. You can still see the nail holes in some of them.”
To the right of the entrance is the home’s kitchen. Rich, cherry-colored cabinets line the perimeter of the room, and a large island provides plenty of countertop prep space. Hand-glazed Mexican tile, a focal point in the room, makes up the backsplash. The home’s architecture figures prominently in this room’s design, with heavy beams and large windows helping to make the room a statement piece.
A dining space flows directly from the kitchen. Intricate beam work draws the eye up, and a bank of windows, trimmed in wood, allows natural light to fill the space. A rectangular table seats eight and high-back chairs that surround it lend an elegant vibe. Attached to the dining room is a door leading to the outdoor balcony where notched exterior wood lends itself to the rustic feel of the home. Pops of coral accent dark furniture, and a patterned all-weather carpet adds visual interest. A fire pit helps make the space usable during every season. Epic views of the serene lake and lush countryside are rivaled only by the residence’s amazing design.
On the opposite side of the home is the master suite. Luxurious appointments throughout the room play perfectly off the Western influence of the home. Vaulted ceilings allow the room to shine. Wood furnishings, including a magnificent four-post bed and matching suite furniture, add warmth while lending a sumptuous feel. A fi replace adds a rustic touch, and a balcony overlooking the living space is a unique feature.
Adjoining the master bedroom is a fabulous master bath where the beautiful beam and ceiling work continues. Custom cabinetry highlights the room, with marble counters and travertine floors adding an elegant touch. A large tub and roomy shower are the perfect finishing touches.
“The travertine floors have been filled and honed,” Wamp says. “That type of floor is naturally porous, with spots or pits, and socks or hose will catch on it unless it’s filled.”
Directly across from the home’s entrance, expertly crafted stairs gracefully curve and lead visitors to a sunken main living space. A tropical-inspired fan, which can be raised and lowered to different heights, circulates air through the room. A cozy sitting area, tucked beside a handsome stone fi replace, is perfect for conversation or curling up with a book. A large rug brings warmth and a burst of muted color to the space, and matching leather sofas face each other with a square coffee table in between.
“This staircase is incredible—a real work of art,” Wamp says. “And the sunken living room is a dramatic look when you enter the home.”
A media room lies off the living space. Custom cabinetry lines the walls, framing the television and providing plenty of spots for displaying cherished mementos. A bar area, complete with a sink, a mini fridge, and a microwave, makes this room an ideal spot for enjoying a movie or sporting event. A distinctive copper ceiling piece adds warmth and interest from above.
Also on the bottom floor, visitors can rejoice over the amenities featured in the main guest suite. A bank of windows has amazing lake views that bring the outdoors in, and a corner fi replace adds a natural stone element to the space. A four-post bed with luxurious linens adds a comfy feel to this retreat, and cream-colored carpet warms the room. Two other guest suites sit on the opposite end of the bottom floor, with similarly cozy appointments throughout.
“This room was initially going to be a place to park the boats,” Wamp explains. “We were going to have a boat ramp out the back, but then they decided to make it a mother-in-law suite instead. It turned out great this way, too!”
While this home may have been originally planned to grace land out West, it seamlessly blends into the Tennessee landscape. This lakeside property is the perfect combination of country comfort and elegance—making it a most luxurious lodge.
Home Suppliers:
Cabinetry: Jeff Burkhart Cabinet Shop
Granite and floors: Diversified Tile
Electric: Nabco Electric
Interior Design: Arnwine’s Home Furnishings
Roofing: J.D. Helton Roofing Company
Stairs: Southeastern Stair and Millwork Company
Stone work: Royal Stone
