Search results for "Additional children" in Home Design Ideas

Situated in Miami Beach, Florida, the owner of this 4,000-square-foot luxury condo turned to Sire Design to make better use of the layout of her home as well as elevate her space into one fit for her entire family. While turning this three-bedroom unit into a four-bedroom home with a larger den was no easy feat, the resulting design is simple and elegant with elements that catch your eye throughout.
Taking an elegant approach to minimalism, light neutrals including bone and beige are juxtaposed against black and deep blue. The mix of materials incorporated including soft linens, bright wood tones, and hard marble, and pieces from Roche Bobois, Haute Living, and Kreon further accentuate the play on contrasting colors. To complement Florida’s beautiful weather, the design team also selected soft and warm neutrals for the condo’s walls and floors. Large furniture pieces and geometric art in deeper colors ground the space while custom millwork and flooring found throughout create cohesive and welcoming interiors.
Through thoughtful space planning, Sire Design transformed the condo to now include an additional bedroom and large den. The team also re-situated the open kitchen to look out upon the breathtaking bayside views. What once was the home’s small kitchen is now an expanded space that includes an area for dining to host family and guests. Sire Design also added a custom marble bar to the living room for added entertainment space. With the client’s five children coming to stay at the home on a rotating basis, it was important to make the three secondary bedrooms and den adaptable for all of the family’s changing needs. Furniture selected for the den helps it convert from a place to entertain to a fifth bedroom when needed. To keep the condo from feeling closed in and satisfy its low ceiling height, the design team used low profile lighting from Apure.
With a wealth of experience in high-end residential interiors, Sire Design put its timeless and classic touches on this home, not only making it highly functional for the whole family, but elevated in style too.

Set inside a circle of 100-year-old maple and oak trees, while complimenting the main home’s architecture, these ‘tree houses’ give shelter, space for imagination & safe play outdoors for twins. Mimicking the trees’ height and scale, and mirrored in each of their designs, these two 6 foot square base by 14 foot tall twin play structures allow for each child to have its own personal space, yet are connected at the center swings.
These unique treehouses have been built with sustainable sourcing and upcycled construction methods. When Martine Ilana, Principal designer of Temescal, considered what a ‘treehouse’ would look like for her twins, immediately it’s ideation was focused on keeping the integrity of the forest and problem solving how to use as many repurposed and sustainable materials as possible.
Accessing the incredible selection of salvage materials from a salvage yard in Detroit, Temescal was able to source non-toxic, and structurally sound woods to build the structure itself.
Healthy building materials include: Metal Roofing and Water based Low VOC paints. A slatted exterior structure was designed to create a rain screen and in addition complement the Main home’s exterior design. Designed with an end of life intention for longevity and a easy means to pull apart these structures apart once the children are older, the foundations can be used for a future ADU.
The slide posed the largest problem to source as recycled plastic slides are not made available to residential projects by US based manufactures and repurposed from Facebook marketplace hit many dead ends. Ultimately, she chose to use a HDPE high density polyurethane plastic slide that would allow for its material to be recycled once at the end of this life.
Every detail, both in their exterior and interior, of these upcycled treehouses was considered with care and an artistic touch that enhances the landscape and forest surrounding them.

Situated in Miami Beach, Florida, the owner of this 4,000-square-foot luxury condo turned to Sire Design to make better use of the layout of her home as well as elevate her space into one fit for her entire family. While turning this three-bedroom unit into a four-bedroom home with a larger den was no easy feat, the resulting design is simple and elegant with elements that catch your eye throughout.
Taking an elegant approach to minimalism, light neutrals including bone and beige are juxtaposed against black and deep blue. The mix of materials incorporated including soft linens, bright wood tones, and hard marble, and pieces from Roche Bobois, Haute Living, and Kreon further accentuate the play on contrasting colors. To complement Florida’s beautiful weather, the design team also selected soft and warm neutrals for the condo’s walls and floors. Large furniture pieces and geometric art in deeper colors ground the space while custom millwork and flooring found throughout create cohesive and welcoming interiors.
Through thoughtful space planning, Sire Design transformed the condo to now include an additional bedroom and large den. The team also re-situated the open kitchen to look out upon the breathtaking bayside views. What once was the home’s small kitchen is now an expanded space that includes an area for dining to host family and guests. Sire Design also added a custom marble bar to the living room for added entertainment space. With the client’s five children coming to stay at the home on a rotating basis, it was important to make the three secondary bedrooms and den adaptable for all of the family’s changing needs. Furniture selected for the den helps it convert from a place to entertain to a fifth bedroom when needed. To keep the condo from feeling closed in and satisfy its low ceiling height, the design team used low profile lighting from Apure.
With a wealth of experience in high-end residential interiors, Sire Design put its timeless and classic touches on this home, not only making it highly functional for the whole family, but elevated in style too.
Find the right local pro for your project

Situated in Miami Beach, Florida, the owner of this 4,000-square-foot luxury condo turned to Sire Design to make better use of the layout of her home as well as elevate her space into one fit for her entire family. While turning this three-bedroom unit into a four-bedroom home with a larger den was no easy feat, the resulting design is simple and elegant with elements that catch your eye throughout.
Taking an elegant approach to minimalism, light neutrals including bone and beige are juxtaposed against black and deep blue. The mix of materials incorporated including soft linens, bright wood tones, and hard marble, and pieces from Roche Bobois, Haute Living, and Kreon further accentuate the play on contrasting colors. To complement Florida’s beautiful weather, the design team also selected soft and warm neutrals for the condo’s walls and floors. Large furniture pieces and geometric art in deeper colors ground the space while custom millwork and flooring found throughout create cohesive and welcoming interiors.
Through thoughtful space planning, Sire Design transformed the condo to now include an additional bedroom and large den. The team also re-situated the open kitchen to look out upon the breathtaking bayside views. What once was the home’s small kitchen is now an expanded space that includes an area for dining to host family and guests. Sire Design also added a custom marble bar to the living room for added entertainment space. With the client’s five children coming to stay at the home on a rotating basis, it was important to make the three secondary bedrooms and den adaptable for all of the family’s changing needs. Furniture selected for the den helps it convert from a place to entertain to a fifth bedroom when needed. To keep the condo from feeling closed in and satisfy its low ceiling height, the design team used low profile lighting from Apure.
With a wealth of experience in high-end residential interiors, Sire Design put its timeless and classic touches on this home, not only making it highly functional for the whole family, but elevated in style too.

These homeowners came to us wanting to upgrade the curb appeal of their home and improve the layout of the interior. They hoped for an entry that would welcome guests to their home both inside and out, while also creating more defined and purposeful space within the home. The main goals of the project were to add a covered wrap around porch, add more windows for natural light, create a formal entry that housed the client’s baby grand piano, and add a home office for the clients to work from home.
With a dated exterior and facade that lacked dimension, there was little charm to be had. The front door was hidden from visitors and a lack of windows made the exterior unoriginal. We approached the exterior design pulling inspiration from the farmhouse style, southern porches, and craftsman style homes. Eventually we landed on a design that added numerous windows to the front façade, reminiscent of a farmhouse, and turned a Dutch hipped roof into an extended gable roof, creating a large front porch and adding curb appeal interest. By relocating the entry door to the front of the house and adding a gable accent over this new door, it created a focal point for guests and passersby. In addition to those design elements, we incorporated some exterior shutters rated for our northwest climate that echoed the southern style homes our client loved. A greige paint color (Benjamin Moore Cape May Cobblestone) accented with a white trim (Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee) and a black front door, shutters, and window box (Sherwin Williams Black Magic) all work together to create a charming and welcoming façade.
On the interior we removed a half wall and coat closet that separated the original cramped entryway from the front room. The front room was a multipurpose space that didn’t have a designated use for the family, it became a catch-all space that was easily cluttered. Through the design process we came up with a plan to split the spaces into 2 rooms, a large open semi-formal entryway and a home office. The semi-formal entryway was intentionally designed to house the homeowner’s baby grand piano – a real showstopper. The flow created by this entryway is welcoming and ushers you into a beautifully curated home.
A new office now sits right off the entryway with beautiful French doors, built-in cabinetry, and an abundance of natural light – everything that one dreams of for their home office. The home office looks out to the front porch and front yard as well as the pastural side yard where the children frequently play. The office is an ideal location for a moment of inspiration, reflection, and focus. A warm white paint (Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee) combined with the newly installed light oak luxury vinyl plank flooring runs throughout the home, creating continuity and a neutral canvas. Traditional and schoolhouse style statement light fixtures coordinate with the black door hardware for an added level of contrast.
There is one more improvement that made a big difference to this family. In the family room, we added a built-in window seat. This created a cozy nook that is used by all for reading and extra seating. This relatively small improvement had a big impact on how the family uses and enjoys the space.

This stunning modern farmhouse residence in Columbia, Tennessee, sits atop a transformed hilltop parcel, originally raw land that was expertly excavated to create a level 2-acre plateau. The site development included installing essential infrastructure such as paved roads, water lines, and electrical systems, turning an undeveloped ridge into a private, family-friendly haven with panoramic valley and mountain views.
The home features a crisp white board-and-batten and horizontal siding exterior, accented by natural stone foundations and stained timber beams for a perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary edge. Dramatic black-framed windows flood the interior with natural light, while the dark asphalt shingle roof with gabled peaks adds depth and contrast. An expansive covered front porch, supported by cedar posts and topped with metal roofing, invites relaxation with seating areas overlooking the sunset. Additional highlights include an oversized two-car garage with white doors, a lower-level walkout basement ready for expansion, and smart-home-ready elements like energy-efficient construction. Twilight lighting accentuates the clean lines, making the house glow against the evening sky.
The landscaped yard is thoughtfully designed for everyday enjoyment, with manicured green lawns, gravel pathways, and low-maintenance shrubs lining the foundation. A circular asphalt driveway provides easy access and ample parking, curving gracefully around the property. In the backyard, a gravel patio area with a fire pit offers a cozy spot for gatherings, while a covered rear deck extends living space outdoors. The setup includes potential for additions like a pool, outdoor kitchen, or expanded entertaining zones, with features like a satellite dish and HVAC units discreetly placed for functionality without compromising aesthetics.
Perched on a scenic hilltop surrounded by wooded forests, the 2-acre lot provides plenty of flat, open space for children and dogs to play safely—ideal for games, picnics, or simply running free amid the fresh air. The elevated position ensures unobstructed, layered views of rolling hills, distant valleys, and seasonal foliage, creating a serene rural retreat feel. In summer, lush green trees frame the property; in fall and winter, bare branches reveal even broader vistas. This custom-developed site balances privacy, accessibility, and natural beauty, making it a true dream property for those seeking a luxurious escape in Tennessee's countryside.

This stunning modern farmhouse residence in Columbia, Tennessee, sits atop a transformed hilltop parcel, originally raw land that was expertly excavated to create a level 2-acre plateau. The site development included installing essential infrastructure such as paved roads, water lines, and electrical systems, turning an undeveloped ridge into a private, family-friendly haven with panoramic valley and mountain views.
The home features a crisp white board-and-batten and horizontal siding exterior, accented by natural stone foundations and stained timber beams for a perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary edge. Dramatic black-framed windows flood the interior with natural light, while the dark asphalt shingle roof with gabled peaks adds depth and contrast. An expansive covered front porch, supported by cedar posts and topped with metal roofing, invites relaxation with seating areas overlooking the sunset. Additional highlights include an oversized two-car garage with white doors, a lower-level walkout basement ready for expansion, and smart-home-ready elements like energy-efficient construction. Twilight lighting accentuates the clean lines, making the house glow against the evening sky.
The landscaped yard is thoughtfully designed for everyday enjoyment, with manicured green lawns, gravel pathways, and low-maintenance shrubs lining the foundation. A circular asphalt driveway provides easy access and ample parking, curving gracefully around the property. In the backyard, a gravel patio area with a fire pit offers a cozy spot for gatherings, while a covered rear deck extends living space outdoors. The setup includes potential for additions like a pool, outdoor kitchen, or expanded entertaining zones, with features like a satellite dish and HVAC units discreetly placed for functionality without compromising aesthetics.
Perched on a scenic hilltop surrounded by wooded forests, the 2-acre lot provides plenty of flat, open space for children and dogs to play safely—ideal for games, picnics, or simply running free amid the fresh air. The elevated position ensures unobstructed, layered views of rolling hills, distant valleys, and seasonal foliage, creating a serene rural retreat feel. In summer, lush green trees frame the property; in fall and winter, bare branches reveal even broader vistas. This custom-developed site balances privacy, accessibility, and natural beauty, making it a true dream property for those seeking a luxurious escape in Tennessee's countryside.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Clients love to entertain! And why wouldn't they, when they have a space like this? When I arrived, this huge space was nothing but bare soil. What a transformation! Project goals primarily focused on the creation of a beautiful space to enjoy with multiple outdoor rooms, space to grow food and space to play outside with guests. We created a regulation-size bocce ball court, large fountain and pond, and used an incredible and diverse selection of drought-tolerant plants including California native selections as well as plants from South Africa, Australia and beyond. Textures and colors form a buzzing, living tapestry which is framed by magnificent views of the fields and distant mountains. All garden elements are connected by winding decomposed granite pathways so the frequent guests, children and grandchildren can roam freely. Raised veggie beds provide a bountiful harvest of veggies and tomatoes. The sound of flowing water and the tranquil garden make it impossible to go inside; this is outdoor living at its finest!

Welcome to Texas Hill Country living at its finest! This stunning almost new modern farmhouse features a one story 5/3 with 2 half bath home with a movie room, and a guesthouse nestled on over 5+ acres in a fenced neighborhood in Lake Travis ISD with lake access!
The home was built in 2021 and was built/designed by the award winning Deville Custom Homes and is the builder's personal home. The home is almost completely wheelchair/ADA accessible, and features a flat lot, an entertaining back yard with a pool for even the youngest of children to enjoy (shallow depths with side walls for the just in case moments), a 30k rainwater collection tank, an inground trampoline, and a partially turfed backyard that meets another sodded acre so the whole group can run barefoot! There is even an inside/outside bathroom that allows those in the pool to quickly run in and out without getting the house wet!
All of the small details have been thought about including Christmas plugs in the soffit, RV outlets, wired for solar and an electric vehicle, entire house is wired with Sonos speakers (even the pool) and 8 cameras with an alarm. This home was designed for the entertaining and discerning buyer who wants their privacy but is conscientious and cautious and likes to feel protected.
Additional details are: completely spray foamed home, large 12x16 metal storage building that matches the house, level 4 drywall, a large Fleetwood back door, most cactus has been eradicated, 12 foot ceilings in main rooms, and an outdoor kitchen with built in grill and wired for a tv. The guest house features two large full size bunkbeds, an open living area, and a half bathroom (just in case you want your friends to visit but not move in)!
Remember to bring your horses and your boat!

This farmhouse, with it's original foundation dating back to 1778, had a lot of charm--but with its bad carpeting, dark paint colors, and confusing layout, it was hard to see at first just how welcoming, charming, and cozy it could be.
The first focus of our renovation was creating a master bedroom suite--since there wasn't one, and one was needed for the modern family that was living here day-in and day-out.
To do this, a collection of small rooms (some of them previously without heat or electrical outlets) were combined to create a gorgeous, serene space in the eaves of the oldest part of the house, complete with master bath containing a double vanity, and spacious shower. Even though these rooms are new, it is hard to see that they weren't original to the farmhouse from day one.
In the rest of the house we removed walls that were added in the 1970's that made spaces seem smaller and more choppy, added a second upstairs bathroom for the family's two children, reconfigured the kitchen using existing cabinets to cut costs ( & making sure to keep the old sink with all of its character & charm) and create a more workable layout with dedicated eating area.
Also added was an outdoor living space with a deck sheltered by a pergola--a spot that the family spends tons of time enjoying during the warmer months.
A family room addition had been added to the house by the previous owner in the 80's, so to make this space feel less like it was tacked on, we installed historically accurate new windows to tie it in visually with the original house, and replaced carpeting with hardwood floors to make a more seamless transition from the historic to the new.
To complete the project, we refinished the original hardwoods throughout the rest of the house, and brightened the outlook of the whole home with a fresh, bright, updated color scheme.
Photos by Laura Kicey

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours
The second-largest and most developed of Georgia's barrier islands, St. Simons is approximately twelve miles long and nearly three miles wide at its widest stretch (roughly the size of Manhattan Island in New York). The island is located in Glynn County on Georgia's coast and lies east of Brunswick (the seat of Glynn County), south of Little St. Simons Island and the Hampton River, and north of Jekyll Island. The resort community of Sea Island is separated from St. Simons on the east by the Black Banks River. Known for its oak tree canopies and historic landmarks, St. Simons is both a tourist destination and, according to the 2010 U.S. census, home to 12,743 residents.
Early History
The earliest
St. Simons Island Village
record of human habitation on the island dates to the Late Archaic Period, about 5,000 to 3,000 years ago. Remnants of shell rings left behind by Native Americans from this era survive on many of the barrier islands, including St. Simons. Centuries later, during the period known by historians as the chiefdom era, the Guale Indians established a chiefdom centered on St. Catherines Island and used St. Simons as their hunting and fishing grounds. By 1500 the Guale had established a permanent village of about 200 people on St. Simons, which they called Guadalquini.
Beginning in 1568, the Spanish attempted to create missions along the Georgia coast. Catholic missions were the primary means by which Georgia's indigenous Native American chiefdoms were assimilated into the Spanish colonial system along the northern frontier of greater Spanish Florida. In the 1600s St. Simons became home to two Spanish missions: San Buenaventura de Guadalquini, on the southern tip of the island, and Santo Domingo de Asao (or Asajo), on the northern tip. Located on the inland side of the island were the pagan refugee villages of San Simón, the island's namesake, and Ocotonico. In 1684 pirate raids left the missions and villages largely abandoned.
Colonial History
As
Fort Frederica
early as 1670, with Great Britain's establishment of the colony of Carolina and its expansion into Georgia territory, Spanish rule was threatened by the English. The Georgia coast was considered "debatable land" by England and Spain, even though Spain had fully retreated from St. Simons by 1702. Thirty-one years later General James Edward Oglethorpe founded the English settlement of Savannah. In 1736 he established Fort Frederica, named after the heir to the British throne, Frederick Louis, prince of Wales, on the west side of St. Simons Island to protect Savannah and the Carolinas from the Spanish threat.
Between 1736 and 1749 Fort Frederica was the hub of British military operations along the Georgia frontier. A town of the same name grew up around the fort and was of great importance to the new colony. By 1740 Frederica's population was 1,000. In 1736 the congregation of what would become Christ Church was organized within Fort Frederica as a mission of the Church of England. Charles Wesley led the first services. In 1742 Britain's decisive victory over Spain in the Battle of Bloody Marsh, during the War of Jenkins' Ear, ended the Spanish threat to the Georgia coast. When the British regimen disbanded in 1749, most of the townspeople relocated to the mainland. Fort Frederica went into decline and, except for a short time of prosperity during the 1760s and 1770s under the leadership of merchant James Spalding, never fully recovered. Today the historic citadel's tabby ruins are maintained by the National Park Service.
Plantation Era
By the start of the American Revolution (1775-83), Fort Frederica was obsolete, and St. Simons was left largely uninhabited as most of its residents joined the patriot army. Besides hosting a small Georgia naval victory on the Fort Frederica River, providing guns from its famous fort for use at Fort Morris in Sunbury, and serving as an arena for pillaging by privateers and British soldiers, the island played almost no role in the war.
Following the war, many of the townspeople, their businesses destroyed, turned to agriculture. The island was transformed into fourteen cotton plantations after acres of live oak trees were cleared for farm land and used for building American warships, including the famous USS Constitution, or "Old Ironsides." Although rice was the predominant crop along the neighboring Altamaha River, St. Simons was known for its production of long-staple cotton, which soon came to be known as Sea Island cotton.
Between
Ebos Landing
the 1780s and the outbreak of the Civil War (1861-65), St. Simons's plantation culture flourished. The saline atmosphere and the availability of cheap slave labor proved an ideal combination for the cultivation of Sea Island cotton. In 1803 a group of Ebo slaves who survived the Middle Passage and arrived on the west side of St. Simons staged a rebellion and drowned themselves. The sacred site is known today as Ebos Landing.
One of the largest owners of land and slaves on St. Simons was Pierce Butler, master of Hampton Point Plantation, located on the northern end of the island. By 1793 Butler owned more than 500 slaves, who cultivated 800 acres of cotton on St. Simons and 300 acres of rice on Butler's Island in the Altamaha River delta. Butler's grandson, Pierce Mease Butler, who at the age of sixteen inherited a share of his grandfather's estate in 1826, was responsible for the largest sale of human beings in the history of the United States: in 1859, to restore his squandered fortune, he sold 429 slaves in Savannah for more than $300,000. The British actress and writer Fanny Kemble, whose tumultuous marriage to Pierce ended in divorce in 1849, published an eyewitness account of the evils of slavery on St. Simons in her book Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838-1839 (1863).
Another
Retreat Plantation
large owner of land and slaves on St. Simons was Major William Page, a friend and employee of Pierce Butler Sr. Before purchasing Retreat Plantation on the southwestern tip of the island in 1804, Page managed the Hampton plantation and Butler's Island. Upon Page's death in 1827, Thomas Butler King inherited the land together with his wife, Page's daughter, Anna Matilda Page King. King expanded his father-in-law's planting empire on St. Simons as well as on the mainland, and by 1835 Retreat Plantation alone was home to as many as 355 slaves.
The center of life during the island's plantation era was Christ Church, Frederica. Organized in 1807 by a group of island planters, the Episcopal church is the second oldest in the Diocese of Georgia. Embargoes imposed by the War of 1812 (1812-15) prevented the parishioners from building a church structure, so they worshiped in the home of John Beck, which stood on the site of Oglethorpe's only St. Simons residence, Orange Hall.
The first Christ Church building, finished on the present site in 1820, was ruined by occupying Union troops during the Civil War. In 1884 the Reverend Anson Dodge Jr. rebuilt the church as a memorial to his first wife, Ellen. The cruciform building with a trussed gothic roof and stained-glass windows remains active today as Christ Church.
Civil War and Beyond
The
St. Simons Island Lighthouse
outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 put a sudden end to St. Simons's lucrative plantation era. In January of that year, Confederate troops were stationed at the south end of the island to guard the entrance to Brunswick Harbor. Slaves from Retreat Plantation, owned by Thomas Butler King, built earthworks and batteries. Plantation residents were scattered—the men joined the Confederate army and their families moved to the mainland. Cannon fire was heard on the island in December 1861, and Confederate troops retreated in February 1862, after dynamiting the lighthouse to keep its beacon from aiding Union troops. Soon thereafter, Union troops occupied the island, which was used as a camp for freed slaves. By August 1862 more than 500 former slaves lived on St. Simons, including Susie King Taylor, who organized a school for freed slave children. But in November the ex-slaves were taken to Hilton Head, South Carolina, and Fernandina, Florida, leaving the island abandoned.
After the Civil War the island never returned to its status as an agricultural community. The plantations lay dormant because there were no slaves to work the fields. After Union general William T. Sherman's January 1865 Special Field Order No. 15 —a demand that former plantations be divided and distributed to former slaves—was overturned by U.S. president Andrew Johnson less than a year later, freedmen and women were forced to work as sharecroppers on the small farms that dotted the land previously occupied by the sprawling plantations.
By
St. Simons Lumber Mills
1870 real economic recovery began with the reestablishment of the timber industry. Norman Dodge and Titus G. Meigs of New York set up lumber mill operations at Gascoigne Bluff, formerly Hamilton Plantation. The lumber mills provided welcome employment for both blacks and whites and also provided mail and passenger boats to the mainland. Such water traffic, together with the construction of a new lighthouse in 1872, designed by architect Charles B. Cluskey, marked the beginning of St. Simons's tourism industry. The keeper of the lighthouse created a small amusement park, which drew many visitors, as did the seemingly miraculous light that traveled from the top of the lighthouse tower to the bottom. The island became a summer retreat for families from the mainland, particularly from Baxley, Brunswick, and Waycross.
The island's resort industry was thriving by the 1880s. Beachfront structures, such as a new pier and grand hotel, were built on the southeastern end of the island and could be accessed by ferry. Around this time wealthy northerners began vacationing on the island.
Twentieth Century
The
St. Simons Island Pier and Village
opening in 1924 of the Brunswick–St. Simons Highway, today known as the Torras Causeway, was a milestone in the development of resorts in the area. St. Simons's beaches were now easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. More than 5,000 automobiles took the short drive from Brunswick to St. Simons via the causeway on its opening day, paving the way for convenient residential and resort development.
In 1926 automotive pioneer Howard Coffin of Detroit, Michigan, bought large tracts of land on St. Simons, including the former Retreat Plantation, and constructed a golf course, yacht club, paved roads, and a residential subdivision. Although the causeway had brought large numbers of summer people to the island, St. Simons remained a small community with only a few hundred permanent residents until the 1940s.
The
St. Simons Island
outbreak of World War II (1941-45) brought more visitors and residents to St. Simons. Troops stationed at Jacksonville, Florida; Savannah; and nearby Camp Stewart took weekend vacations on the island, and a new naval air base and radar school became home to even more officers and soldiers. The increased wartime population brought the island its first public school. With a major shipyard for the production of Liberty ships in nearby Brunswick, the waters of St. Simons became active with German U-boats. In April 1942, just off the coast, the Texas Company oil tanker S. S. Oklahoma and the S. S. Esso Baton Rouge were torpedoed by the Germans, bringing the war very close to home for island residents.
Due in large part to the military's improvement of the island's infrastructure during the war, development on the island boomed in the 1950s and 1960s. More permanent homes and subdivisions were built, and the island was no longer just a summer resort but also a thriving community. In 1950 the Methodist conference and retreat center Epworth by the Sea opened on Gascoigne Bluff. In 1961 novelist Eugenia Price visited St. Simons and began work on her first works of fiction, known as the St. Simons Trilogy. Inspired by real events on the island, Price's trilogy renewed interest in the history of Georgia's coast, and the novelist herself relocated to the island in 1965 and lived there for thirty-one years. St. Simons is also home to contemporary Georgia writer Tina McElroy Ansa.
Since
Epworth by the Sea
1980 St. Simons's population has doubled. The island's continued status as a vacation destination and its ongoing development boom have put historic landmarks and natural areas at risk. While such landmarks as the Fort Frederica ruins and the Battle of Bloody Marsh site are preserved and maintained by the National Park Service, and while the historic lighthouse is maintained by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society, historic Ebos Landing has been taken over by a sewage treatment plant.
Several coastal organizations have formed in recent years to save natural areas on the island. The St. Simons Land Trust, for example, has received donations of large tracts of land and plans to protect property in the island's three traditional African American neighborhoods. Despite its rapid growth and development, St. Simons remains one of the most beautiful and important islands on the Georgia coast.

Welcome to Texas Hill Country living at its finest! This stunning almost new modern farmhouse features a one story 5/3 with 2 half bath home with a movie room, and a guesthouse nestled on over 5+ acres in a fenced neighborhood in Lake Travis ISD with lake access!
The home was built in 2021 and was built/designed by the award winning Deville Custom Homes and is the builder's personal home. The home is almost completely wheelchair/ADA accessible, and features a flat lot, an entertaining back yard with a pool for even the youngest of children to enjoy (shallow depths with side walls for the just in case moments), a 30k rainwater collection tank, an inground trampoline, and a partially turfed backyard that meets another sodded acre so the whole group can run barefoot! There is even an inside/outside bathroom that allows those in the pool to quickly run in and out without getting the house wet!
All of the small details have been thought about including Christmas plugs in the soffit, RV outlets, wired for solar and an electric vehicle, entire house is wired with Sonos speakers (even the pool) and 8 cameras with an alarm. This home was designed for the entertaining and discerning buyer who wants their privacy but is conscientious and cautious and likes to feel protected.
Additional details are: completely spray foamed home, large 12x16 metal storage building that matches the house, level 4 drywall, a large Fleetwood back door, most cactus has been eradicated, 12 foot ceilings in main rooms, and an outdoor kitchen with built in grill and wired for a tv. The guest house features two large full size bunkbeds, an open living area, and a half bathroom (just in case you want your friends to visit but not move in)!
Remember to bring your horses and your boat!

Situated in Miami Beach, Florida, the owner of this 4,000-square-foot luxury condo turned to Sire Design to make better use of the layout of her home as well as elevate her space into one fit for her entire family. While turning this three-bedroom unit into a four-bedroom home with a larger den was no easy feat, the resulting design is simple and elegant with elements that catch your eye throughout.
Taking an elegant approach to minimalism, light neutrals including bone and beige are juxtaposed against black and deep blue. The mix of materials incorporated including soft linens, bright wood tones, and hard marble, and pieces from Roche Bobois, Haute Living, and Kreon further accentuate the play on contrasting colors. To complement Florida’s beautiful weather, the design team also selected soft and warm neutrals for the condo’s walls and floors. Large furniture pieces and geometric art in deeper colors ground the space while custom millwork and flooring found throughout create cohesive and welcoming interiors.
Through thoughtful space planning, Sire Design transformed the condo to now include an additional bedroom and large den. The team also re-situated the open kitchen to look out upon the breathtaking bayside views. What once was the home’s small kitchen is now an expanded space that includes an area for dining to host family and guests. Sire Design also added a custom marble bar to the living room for added entertainment space. With the client’s five children coming to stay at the home on a rotating basis, it was important to make the three secondary bedrooms and den adaptable for all of the family’s changing needs. Furniture selected for the den helps it convert from a place to entertain to a fifth bedroom when needed. To keep the condo from feeling closed in and satisfy its low ceiling height, the design team used low profile lighting from Apure.
With a wealth of experience in high-end residential interiors, Sire Design put its timeless and classic touches on this home, not only making it highly functional for the whole family, but elevated in style too.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!

Situated in Miami Beach, Florida, the owner of this 4,000-square-foot luxury condo turned to Sire Design to make better use of the layout of her home as well as elevate her space into one fit for her entire family. While turning this three-bedroom unit into a four-bedroom home with a larger den was no easy feat, the resulting design is simple and elegant with elements that catch your eye throughout.
Taking an elegant approach to minimalism, light neutrals including bone and beige are juxtaposed against black and deep blue. The mix of materials incorporated including soft linens, bright wood tones, and hard marble, and pieces from Roche Bobois, Haute Living, and Kreon further accentuate the play on contrasting colors. To complement Florida’s beautiful weather, the design team also selected soft and warm neutrals for the condo’s walls and floors. Large furniture pieces and geometric art in deeper colors ground the space while custom millwork and flooring found throughout create cohesive and welcoming interiors.
Through thoughtful space planning, Sire Design transformed the condo to now include an additional bedroom and large den. The team also re-situated the open kitchen to look out upon the breathtaking bayside views. What once was the home’s small kitchen is now an expanded space that includes an area for dining to host family and guests. Sire Design also added a custom marble bar to the living room for added entertainment space. With the client’s five children coming to stay at the home on a rotating basis, it was important to make the three secondary bedrooms and den adaptable for all of the family’s changing needs. Furniture selected for the den helps it convert from a place to entertain to a fifth bedroom when needed. To keep the condo from feeling closed in and satisfy its low ceiling height, the design team used low profile lighting from Apure.
With a wealth of experience in high-end residential interiors, Sire Design put its timeless and classic touches on this home, not only making it highly functional for the whole family, but elevated in style too.

Our client came to us with a desire to take an overgrown, neglected space and transform it into a clean contemporary backyard for the family to enjoy. Having had less than stellar experiences with other contractors, they wanted to find a trustworthy company; One that would complement their style and provide excellent communication. They saw a JRP banner at their son's baseball game at Westlake High School and decided to call. After meeting with the team, they knew JRP was the firm they needed to give their backyard a complete overhaul.
With a focus on sleek, clean lines, this contemporary backyard is captivating. The outdoor family room is a perfect blend of beauty, form, and function. JRP reworked the courtyard and dining area to create a space for the family to enjoy together. An outdoor pergola houses a media center and lounge. Restoration Hardware low profile furniture provides comfortable seating while maintaining a polished look. The adjacent barbecue is perfect for crafting up family dinners to enjoy amidst a Southern California sunset.
Before renovating, the landscaping was an unkempt mess that felt overwhelming. Synthetic grass and concrete decking was installed to give the backyard a fresh feel while offering easy maintenance. Gorgeous hardscaping takes the outdoor area to a whole new level. The resurfaced free-form pool joins to a lounge area that's perfect for soaking up the sun while watching the kids swim. Hedges and outdoor shrubs now maintain a clean, uniformed look.
A tucked-away area taken over by plants provided an opportunity to create an intimate outdoor dining space. JRP added wooden containers to accommodate touches of greenery that weren't overwhelming. Bold patterned statement flooring contrasts beautifully against a neutral palette. Additionally, our team incorporated a fireplace for a feel of coziness.
Once an overlooked space, the clients and their children are now eager to spend time outdoors together. This clean contemporary backyard renovation transformed what the client called "an overgrown jungle" into a space that allows for functional outdoor living and serene luxury.
Photographer: Andrew - OpenHouse VC

Welcome to Texas Hill Country living at its finest! This stunning almost new modern farmhouse features a one story 5/3 with 2 half bath home with a movie room, and a guesthouse nestled on over 5+ acres in a fenced neighborhood in Lake Travis ISD with lake access!
The home was built in 2021 and was built/designed by the award winning Deville Custom Homes and is the builder's personal home. The home is almost completely wheelchair/ADA accessible, and features a flat lot, an entertaining back yard with a pool for even the youngest of children to enjoy (shallow depths with side walls for the just in case moments), a 30k rainwater collection tank, an inground trampoline, and a partially turfed backyard that meets another sodded acre so the whole group can run barefoot! There is even an inside/outside bathroom that allows those in the pool to quickly run in and out without getting the house wet!
All of the small details have been thought about including Christmas plugs in the soffit, RV outlets, wired for solar and an electric vehicle, entire house is wired with Sonos speakers (even the pool) and 8 cameras with an alarm. This home was designed for the entertaining and discerning buyer who wants their privacy but is conscientious and cautious and likes to feel protected.
Additional details are: completely spray foamed home, large 12x16 metal storage building that matches the house, level 4 drywall, a large Fleetwood back door, most cactus has been eradicated, 12 foot ceilings in main rooms, and an outdoor kitchen with built in grill and wired for a tv. The guest house features two large full size bunkbeds, an open living area, and a half bathroom (just in case you want your friends to visit but not move in)!
Remember to bring your horses and your boat!

Welcome to Texas Hill Country living at its finest! This stunning almost new modern farmhouse features a one story 5/3 with 2 half bath home with a movie room, and a guesthouse nestled on over 5+ acres in a fenced neighborhood in Lake Travis ISD with lake access!
The home was built in 2021 and was built/designed by the award winning Deville Custom Homes and is the builder's personal home. The home is almost completely wheelchair/ADA accessible, and features a flat lot, an entertaining back yard with a pool for even the youngest of children to enjoy (shallow depths with side walls for the just in case moments), a 30k rainwater collection tank, an inground trampoline, and a partially turfed backyard that meets another sodded acre so the whole group can run barefoot! There is even an inside/outside bathroom that allows those in the pool to quickly run in and out without getting the house wet!
All of the small details have been thought about including Christmas plugs in the soffit, RV outlets, wired for solar and an electric vehicle, entire house is wired with Sonos speakers (even the pool) and 8 cameras with an alarm. This home was designed for the entertaining and discerning buyer who wants their privacy but is conscientious and cautious and likes to feel protected.
Additional details are: completely spray foamed home, large 12x16 metal storage building that matches the house, level 4 drywall, a large Fleetwood back door, most cactus has been eradicated, 12 foot ceilings in main rooms, and an outdoor kitchen with built in grill and wired for a tv. The guest house features two large full size bunkbeds, an open living area, and a half bathroom (just in case you want your friends to visit but not move in)!
Remember to bring your horses and your boat!

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Charleston American Tradition showcase home highlights premium custom home building in Akron, Ohio. Featuring a thoughtfully designed 2,400 square-foot floor plan, this layout offers 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, perfectly balancing spacious open-concept living with private family areas. As one of our most popular and versatile home designs, the Charleston is celebrated for offering the latest in modern architectural design alongside clever, abundant storage solutions tailored for growing families.The heart of this custom home centers around a gourmet kitchen equipped with expansive counter space, a massive central kitchen island built for family gatherings, and a giant walk-in pantry that ensures everything has its place. Just off the main living area, a dedicated pocket office provides the perfect quiet space to organize household bills or work from home. This functional workspace transitions effortlessly into a luxurious owner's retreat, featuring an expansive master bedroom, two large walk-in closets, and a deluxe owner's bath complete with a custom tile shower. On the opposite side of the home, the additional bedrooms are intentionally zoned to give children or guests their own private, quiet spaces.The home’s unique interior and exterior architectural features elevate everyday living into a true luxury experience. Inside the open-concept great room, a dramatic double tray ceiling adds a unique, high-end design detail that emphasizes the height and airiness of the main living space. Extending your living area outdoors, a spacious rear covered porch offers a fantastic spot for seamless outdoor living, backyard dining, and weekend entertaining. From the elegant master suite to the welcoming layout, this Charleston American Tradition design is the ultimate reflection of quality Ohio craftsmanship and timeless style.

Welcome to Texas Hill Country living at its finest! This stunning almost new modern farmhouse features a one story 5/3 with 2 half bath home with a movie room, and a guesthouse nestled on over 5+ acres in a fenced neighborhood in Lake Travis ISD with lake access!
The home was built in 2021 and was built/designed by the award winning Deville Custom Homes and is the builder's personal home. The home is almost completely wheelchair/ADA accessible, and features a flat lot, an entertaining back yard with a pool for even the youngest of children to enjoy (shallow depths with side walls for the just in case moments), a 30k rainwater collection tank, an inground trampoline, and a partially turfed backyard that meets another sodded acre so the whole group can run barefoot! There is even an inside/outside bathroom that allows those in the pool to quickly run in and out without getting the house wet!
All of the small details have been thought about including Christmas plugs in the soffit, RV outlets, wired for solar and an electric vehicle, entire house is wired with Sonos speakers (even the pool) and 8 cameras with an alarm. This home was designed for the entertaining and discerning buyer who wants their privacy but is conscientious and cautious and likes to feel protected.
Additional details are: completely spray foamed home, large 12x16 metal storage building that matches the house, level 4 drywall, a large Fleetwood back door, most cactus has been eradicated, 12 foot ceilings in main rooms, and an outdoor kitchen with built in grill and wired for a tv. The guest house features two large full size bunkbeds, an open living area, and a half bathroom (just in case you want your friends to visit but not move in)!
Remember to bring your horses and your boat!

This stunning modern farmhouse residence in Columbia, Tennessee, sits atop a transformed hilltop parcel, originally raw land that was expertly excavated to create a level 2-acre plateau. The site development included installing essential infrastructure such as paved roads, water lines, and electrical systems, turning an undeveloped ridge into a private, family-friendly haven with panoramic valley and mountain views.
The home features a crisp white board-and-batten and horizontal siding exterior, accented by natural stone foundations and stained timber beams for a perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary edge. Dramatic black-framed windows flood the interior with natural light, while the dark asphalt shingle roof with gabled peaks adds depth and contrast. An expansive covered front porch, supported by cedar posts and topped with metal roofing, invites relaxation with seating areas overlooking the sunset. Additional highlights include an oversized two-car garage with white doors, a lower-level walkout basement ready for expansion, and smart-home-ready elements like energy-efficient construction. Twilight lighting accentuates the clean lines, making the house glow against the evening sky.
The landscaped yard is thoughtfully designed for everyday enjoyment, with manicured green lawns, gravel pathways, and low-maintenance shrubs lining the foundation. A circular asphalt driveway provides easy access and ample parking, curving gracefully around the property. In the backyard, a gravel patio area with a fire pit offers a cozy spot for gatherings, while a covered rear deck extends living space outdoors. The setup includes potential for additions like a pool, outdoor kitchen, or expanded entertaining zones, with features like a satellite dish and HVAC units discreetly placed for functionality without compromising aesthetics.
Perched on a scenic hilltop surrounded by wooded forests, the 2-acre lot provides plenty of flat, open space for children and dogs to play safely—ideal for games, picnics, or simply running free amid the fresh air. The elevated position ensures unobstructed, layered views of rolling hills, distant valleys, and seasonal foliage, creating a serene rural retreat feel. In summer, lush green trees frame the property; in fall and winter, bare branches reveal even broader vistas. This custom-developed site balances privacy, accessibility, and natural beauty, making it a true dream property for those seeking a luxurious escape in Tennessee's countryside.
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