Newberry park

Southern Living, Aug 2003 by Martin, Robert

Searching for a relaxing place to call home? Look no further than our house in Chapel Hill.

Situated in the scenic Piedmont plains of Chapel Hill, Newberry Park represents a combined commitment of individuals who take pride in great design. Nurtured by the development team of Meadowmont of Chapel Hill, this Idea House barkens back to the days when construction meant craftsmanship and an utmost attention to detail. In homage to the stately historic homes gracing the area, Newberry Park gives an impression of establishment. Architect Bill Allison explains, "The overall concept is a traditionally styled T-shaped floor plan that has been added on to over the years. While not bound to any period or time, this home creates an elegant living environment for a modern family."

This notion of evolution is particularly evident on the exterior. Handsome brick with an age-evoking mortar treatment covers the main, two-story center section, while extending wings feature siding. The use of a 5V crimp metal roofing, which has zinc oxide coating, gives a ready-made patina. Other notable features consist of a porte-cochere, along with a two-story detached garage that resembles a carriage house and allows for an upper level guest suite. Lush landscaping completes the long-established feel.

Ample Porch Living

This home includes an abundance of column-lined porches to encourage outdoor living. "With so many large custom homes barely fitting their lots, we wanted this house to harmonize with and accentuate its site," builder Brian Dixon explains. There's also a full bed-size swing on the back for those who wish to linger longer.

Many interior rooms feature French doors that access these porches, further strengthening the outdoor connection by opening up the entire house as one flowing space. The porch flooring is a composite material that resembles real wood and will hold up to years of use.

Double-Duty Upstairs Retreat

Adjacent to the children's bedrooms upstairs is a lofty space that serves as the playroom. Well-planned built-ins provide storage for games and toys, as well as a cubby for the TV The insides of the built-ins are painted a spectrum of bright colors. "This vivid room is a departure from the elegant palette used in the rest of the house," says interior designer Tim Schelfe.

Shimmering Touches

In the adjacent bath, a flower-patterned wallpaper and border give this small space a sense of fun. The vibrant paisley shower curtain and a window valance match the playroom's sofa. A closer look at the space reveals the impact of unique tile accents. Laid within a cream ceramic field, mosaic bands of iridescent green glass crisscross the floor. These inserts highlight the tub surround as well, which is made up of beveled ceramic subway tiles.

What an Entrance

Starting at the front entry alcove, it's evident that the same attention to detail characterizing the exterior continues inside as well. Protruding onto the front porch as a welcome gesture to guests, the alcove is set apart by its richly stained mahogany front door. Also of interest is the brick floor. It's made from the same masonry pavers that compose the entry walk and driveway, and it seamlessly blends the foyer, dining room, and hallway. "It's a mortarless installation with fine sand filling the gaps; pavers aren't used in many new homes, but they're perfect for this one," says builder Mark Kirby, who worked with business partner Brian Dixon to create the stately home. "It is incredibly inviting."

In the foyer, the brick flooring leads to an elegant staircase with flared bottom steps. Rising gracefully, the stairs are further enhanced by carved wooden balusters and sinuous railings. Of equal beauty, a 6-foot-high wainscot made up of 1 x trim boards dresses the foyer walls and continues into the entry hall, which is crowned with a barrel-vaulted ceiling. "The entry space of Newberry Park provides a continuous line of sight in which you can literally see through the entire house from the front door to the backyard. It's that open and interconnected," explains interior designer Michael Steiner. He, along with business partner Tim Schelfe, designed the formal yet casual interiors. Off the entry hall, a small powder room provides a space for guests to freshen up.

Chefs Haven

Outfitted with heart-pine ceiling beams and sage walls like the nearby breakfast room, the kitchen is any homeowner's dream. Cabinetry with an antique cream-colored glaze surrounds the space. Appearing to be a large cabinet, the refrigerator is disguised by panels. Beside the refrigerator, open shelves placed in front of casement windows provide display for dishware and cookbooks. The area features quartz stone countertops, while an ample island occupies the center and makes food preparation a pleasure. "Made of distressed cherry, the island resembles a freestanding furniture piece," explains Tim. "To emphasize its uniqueness, Michael and I used a darker quartz stone countertop than found elsewhere in the kitchen."