Refined Lakeside Retreat

After the kids moved out, the Hillenburgs decided to downsize to a condo, but it wasn’t long before they were called back to the waterfront. “After about a year in the condo, we decided we wanted to be back on the lake again,” Jenny recalls. “So we started driving around, and one day we happened upon this lot. When we walked on it, we just fell in love.”

Construction began, and the couple moved into the new build in 2023. The home is a blend of contemporary styles and stunning natural materials that pay homage to the beautiful surroundings. What results is a transitional lakeside retreat, well-suited to meet the daily needs of the Hillenburgs as well as the friends and family they welcome.
In the interiors of the home, a coastal feel is carried throughout with the use of serene blues and greens, sandy neutrals, and shiplap accents. “We wanted it to feel like this place of peace, calm, and relaxation for us and the people who visit,” Jenny says.

In good weather, the family spends as much time as possible on the water, by the poolside, or taking advantage of the outdoor kitchen and living areas. But in off-seasons, the home still makes the most of an indoor-outdoor living style. In the living room, wide windows allow for plenty of natural light and uses of natural stone and exposed ceiling beams draw the scenery into the interiors.

Another special feature is a space tailored specifically to showcase one of the couple’s favorite hobbies. “My husband and I like to visit wineries,” Jenny shares. “We’ve been to Napa, Spain, France, and Italy for wine tastings, so we have a pretty large collection.”

The “Wine Room” is a favorite space to unwind and relax after a long day. They decided to make this area central in the home so guests can be easily welcomed into the room and share in the Hillenburgs’ collection. The room features a stunning wet bar with glass-front display cabinets and a patinaed mirror backsplash. Bright brass accents are softly contrasted with velvety armchairs, exuding comfort and class.

Steps away, the kitchen is an area of the home that makes simplicity shine. Shaker-style cabinets showcase the natural beauty of the woodgrain, while also serving to heighten the room. Honed countertops boast a smooth, matte finish, and gold fixtures pop against this subtle backdrop. The window has the bonus feature of opening to the outdoor kitchen, making it a perfect space for summer cook-outs.

Family is central for the Hillenburgs, and this connection inspires several elements in the home. Two large watercolor paintings of herons grace the home’s entryway – an ode to the birds who populate the lake area, as well as a reminder of Jenny’s connection with her father. “My parents live in South Carolina in a neighborhood where there are ponds,” Jenny explains, “So it’s become a thing between me and my dad where he’ll text me a picture of a heron when he sees it and I’ll do the same. They have a really strong meaning for me, so much so that the heron is part of my business logo.” When their designer found these paintings, Jenny instantly knew they would be the perfect feature to welcome guests into the home.

Family is central for the Hillenburgs, and this connection inspires several elements in the home. Two large watercolor paintings of herons grace the home’s entryway – an ode to the birds who populate the lake area, as well as a reminder of Jenny’s connection with her father. “My parents live in South Carolina in a neighborhood where there are ponds,” Jenny explains, “So it’s become a thing between me and my dad where he’ll text me a picture of a heron when he sees it and I’ll do the same. They have a really strong meaning for me, so much so that the heron is part of my business logo.” When their designer found these paintings, Jenny instantly knew they would be the perfect feature to welcome guests into the home.

As for the grandkids, Jenny and Jason wanted to create unforgettable spaces for when family comes to visit. “Our grandchildren do love coming here – swimming, tubing, fishing, and all that,” Jenny says. “I really want them to have a love for the lake, same as my kids did when they were growing up.” While the water provides unlimited recreation, an upstairs room featuring built-in bunks, board games, and books makes “Camp Hillenburg” a favorite place to be.

The Hillenburgs wanted to be sure to make the most of what lake life has to offer, including a pool deck that is a stone’s throw from the house. Beyond this vista, the family loves to take the pontoon for a spin or go paddleboarding with their adventurous shih tzu, Leo, who knows the second he sees the boating equipment that it’s time to play outside.

Jenny and Jason Hillenburg

There’s no shortage of memories to be made, from watching the fireworks on the Fourth of July to visiting with family or simply soaking up the sun. In their new home, the Hillenburgs are thrilled to call the lakeside home once again.

Suppliers

Appliances: Ferguson

Architect: David Collins – Draftech Home Plans

Brick & Stone: Acme Brick, Tile & Stone

Builder & Exterior Hardscapes: Larry Waldrep, Waldrep Construction, LLC

Cabinetry: Wood Hollow Cabinets

Closets: Creekside Closets, LLC

Counters: Granite Warehouse

Exterior Doors and Windows: East Chattanooga Lumber & Supply Co.

Fireplace: Hearthside Hearth & Grill

Floors: Kenworthy Hardwood Flooring

Furniture & Interior Design: Frost Designs, Inc.

Interior Doors, Ironwork, & Trim: Interior Trim & Supply, Inc.

Landscaping: Kaylee Cook Design

Lighting Fixtures: Inline Lighting

Outdoor Kitchen: Jason Hillenburg

Pool: Georgia Gunite & Pool Company

Tile: Louisville Tile