Nest
Our homes are filled with cherished memories of celebrations, homecooked meals, and quality time with loved ones. Yet, there is often one special room or space that stands out as a sanctuary, providing extra comfort and tranquility. Here, four local women share the areas in their homes that hold a special place in their hearts.
Photography by Creative Revolver
“In 2018, we created a place in our home that asks for nothing but your presence. The Outback is a getaway designed not just for escape, but for connecting and belonging. We use this room for various purposes: counseling friends through seasons of uncertainty; snuggling with granddaughters as the sun rises and sets; venting frustrations and offering up prayers in the same breath; rejoicing in hard-won victories that deserve a witness; sharing conversations and celebrations; shedding tears of joy and sorrow (sometimes within the same hour); and reading, resting, and renewing.
There is a healing salve in a shared cup of coffee and a slice of something sweet. It’s the universal ‘language of the hearth’ that says, ‘You are welcome here.’ We’ve invited neighbors, strangers, and lifelong friends to ‘sit a spell,’ recognizing that sometimes the most profound healing happens in the pauses between sips. We believe that loving people well sometimes means saying nothing at all while providing them a soft place to land.
In a fast-paced life, we believe in the power of a soft landing. Whether you are carrying a heavy burden or a heart full of song, the gate is always open. Because here in the Outback, we don’t just host guests – we hold space for the people we love.”
“I call this my sewing room, though it’s also my favorite spot to nap and where I keep my office/computer. The imaginative room is filled with photos, artwork, and collections that infuse it with love and creative energy as I enjoy one of my favorite pastimes – sewing.
It’s cozy, quirky, and colorful – much like myself. As a child, I would sit and watch my mother sew, and when she left for work, I’d sneak in to try using her sewing machine. For my college graduation, I received a new sewing machine, which I still use to this day. I made my first Barbie clothes in fourth grade, and I’ve been sewing ever since.”
“My favorite space in our home is our formal dining room. It’s where elegance and legacy meet. The room blends modern design with an antique feel, creating both refinement and warmth. The centerpiece is a striking piece of artwork featuring a Black woman. To me, she represents strength, grace, and the quiet power of being the glue that holds a family together … silent yet powerful, much like the role I carry
with love.
This space is especially meaningful because neither my husband nor I grew up in a traditional setting where family dinners were consistently shared and celebrated. Creating that experience for our children is intentional. While holidays and special occasions unfold around this table, we also make a point to gather there beyond just celebrations. Around this table, we are building a new legacy rooted in togetherness, conversation, and generational love.”
“We were displaced by Chattanooga’s 2020 tornado and waiting on our new home to be built when I bought two vintage armchairs. I didn’t even have our room dimensions, but I was drawn to them like a magnet.
These chairs now flank our living room fireplace and mark my favorite spot in our home. This is most often where I read to my children, catch up with my husband, and hang out with friends. From these chairs, I see so much of what our family loves: the local art we collect, mementos from various travels, and a rotating selection of books. The intimacy of the area and the close proximity to the kitchen have made this the gathering spot for everyone who walks through our doors. It is an inspiring backdrop that promises more memories will be made with those we love.”
