Transcontinental Traditional

The Warner Family
Sandra and Doug Warner

With a mansard roof, arched windows and doors, and pristine symmetry, there is no mistaking the French architecture of this brow home. An impressive cobblestone drive is laid in a circular pattern, which emphasizes the curves and symmetry of the home’s exteriors, while brick siding and slate shingles create a luxurious and established aesthetic.

Beyond the impressive exteriors to the entryway, gas lanterns evoke an old-world ambiance. Entering the front door into the bright and cheerful foyer, the symmetry of the home is continued. A dazzling chandelier overhead accentuates marble floors and baseboards, elegant crown molding, and the main walkway through the tall arched doorway straight ahead. While the foyer breaks off through doorways to the right and left, the natural flow of sunlight instinctively draws guests straight into the living room.

“This room is excellent for large gatherings and when we have the whole family over,” Sandra shares. “It’s very spacious and has wonderful views.” In the living room, the Warners’ affinity for English antiques becomes apparent and melds well with French focal points, like the carved stone fireplace. Antique Staffordshire dog figurines stand guard above the mantle and on top of an English secretary desk in the corner. “That desk, as well as the grandfather clock by the windows, and all the chairs were from one of our trips to England,” Sandra says. The room seamlessly accommodates three separate seating areas, which all feel very connected. As Sandra puts it, “It’s a perfect room for entertaining large groups.”

Also on the main level, connecting the master bedroom and formal living room, is the library. “This is certainly our favorite room in the house,” Doug says. “We both spend the most time in here and find it’s just more comfortable and enjoyable when it’s just the two of us at home,” he explains. The library’s richly stained pecan wood walls are adorned with custom wainscoting and provide an elegant and intimate feel. The addition of a fireplace and plush upholstered seating make this a cozy retreat with a spectacular view and plenty of great reading material. “I love the library,” Sandra shares. “On a chilly day, with the fireplace going and the backdrop of that great view, it’s one of my favorite places to be.”

Walking through to the master suite, the bedroom boasts one of the best views in the house. “This home was designed to have excellent views from almost every room, but the master suite’s view is amazing,” Sandra says. The traditionally furnished room features a tufted camel back headboard and draperies with light hints of floral. The seating area by the window nook creates an intimate space to unwind and relax. Shades of green continue the relaxing atmosphere while pointing attention back toward the valley views and natural green colors outside.

“This home was designed to have excellent views from almost every room,
but the master suite’s view is amazing.”

– Sandra Warner

The adjoining master bathroom continues nature’s hues while working in touches of luxury. Fine marble countertops and surrounds for both the shower and soaking bathtub ensure a spa-like experience. The soaking bathtub features a unique circular design, while the shower features a glass encasement, steam features, and custom marble molding. The bathroom also contains heated floors and an English warming towel rack for added opulence.

On the other side of the main level is the kitchen. This spacious room offers excellent amenities for entertaining as well as plenty of space for efficient workflow. The island extends to a countertop for added seating if desired, while also featuring a prep sink and additional storage space. A pot rack overhead punctuates the room with antique copper pieces. An industrial gas cooktop, three dishwashers, a warming oven, and a butler’s pantry make this kitchen an entertainer’s dream. “This kitchen makes hosting large groups and even parties so much more convenient – especially the extra dishwashers!” Sandra shares.

To the side, the kitchen is open to a seating area in front of a huge picture window and a rustic mountain stone fireplace. An American antique trestle table features a shelf underneath and actually flips down into a traditional settle, or bench. Barley twist candlesticks and a collection of teapots continue the antique English flair.

The nearby formal dining room is another elegant space for entertaining. The large room can seat 12 or more if needed and contains beautiful antique furniture. The burled sideboard topped with silver candelabras is crowned by an antique German tapestry displaying a landscape scene. Meanwhile, out the enormous picture windows, an even lovelier landscape view is available.

Downstairs plays host to some of the home’s most distinctive features. As Doug explains, “The lady who built the home brought in brick from the old Chattanooga Bakery building for the floors, and she hand-selected some special materials for this room.” The wooden beams are said to be reclaimed old wood from South America. And the statement chandelier over the billards table is believed to be the original chandelier from the Fairyland Club ballroom. Sandra tells another fun story associated with it: “I don’t know if it’s true or not, but we’ve been told that the previous homeowner outbid Johnny Cash for that chandelier.”

Walking out from the downstairs, the outdoor living spaces and pool area are all accessible. A two-tiered pool overlooks the bluff view from a truly spectacular setting. The top wading pool was designed by Sandra to be a place to sit and cool down after working in the garden. Below is the traditional-sized pool, and beyond that is a sun deck. Nearby, the Warners also added a covered lanai area, complete with a stacked-stone fireplace, outdoor kitchen area, television, dining table, and comfortable outdoor furniture.

The home boasts many more guest rooms, traditionally decorated with special English antiques which the Warners have collected during their travels. Each piece is tied to a memory and special trip. Their two adult daughters have traveled with them and helped them curate their impressive collection. Together, Doug and Sandra have enjoyed entertaining friends and family alike and continue to revel in the rich and cozy character of their brow home. CS