The 2021 Southern Living Idea House is inspiring on multiple levels—from the stunning location in Louisville, Kentucky overlooking the Ohio river, to the design-driven home that marries European countryside vibes with a timeless aesthetic. Dubbed the “forever home,” the concept was to design for all stages of life, with thoughtful spaces that meet the ever-evolving needs of families today. The 5,545-square-foot, Colonial Greek Revival Cottage-style home is located in The Breakers at Prospect community and is the collective effort of many. While it may have formerly been a trend to embrace open layout living spaces, following the pandemic families are seeking spaces in the home that feel separated, to allow for privacy. Rooms with clear intentions allow more options for areas in which to spend time, depending on your mood, and this home perfectly balances livable and lively ideas. Marvin products were chosen for this project to maximize the use of natural light, allow airflow from outdoors to indoors, and provide expansive views that overlook the Ohio River. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Awaken Skylight Marvin Ultimate Casement Window Marvin Ultimate Double Hung G2 Window Marvin Ultimate Picture Window Marvin Ultimate Direct Glaze Round Top Window Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door G2 BUILDER: Jason Black and Jimmy King of Artisan Signature Homes ARCHITECT: Brandon Ingram of C. Brandon Ingram Design INTERIOR DESIGNER: Sarah Bartholomew, Sarah Bartholomew Design LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT: Josh Myers of Myers & Co. Landscape Architecture PHOTOGRAPHY: Laurey W. Glenn, Marta Xochilt Perez, and Kriech-Higdon Photography for Southern Living

The Sweeten
Example of a mid-sized trendy master light wood floor bedroom design in New York with white walls

KuDa Photography
Family room - contemporary light wood floor family room idea in Portland with white walls and no fireplace

Builder: John Huffman
Study room - contemporary freestanding desk medium tone wood floor and brown floor study room idea in Dallas with gray walls

Michelle Lee Wilson
Inspiration for a transitional home office remodel in San Francisco

This home office has built-in cabinets and a run of two desks and a printing station. There are three doors that can open to reveal a printer and two computers. The doors are easily closable, making for a quick tidy-up when company arrives.

Finding the time and a place to create is always a challenge. The Eclipse Hobby/Sewing Center features a large 60.25 inch wide table top that allows you to spread out, cut or adjust fabric and patterns. The 9.5 inch wide side shelf folds down if less space is needed when not in use. The three fabric storage drawers and a large lower shelf are available, so you can organize your supplies and keep them close. The unique platform shelf lowers and allows you to adjust for a variety of sewing machine base heights. The heavy gauge steel construction and 5/8 inch thick top make it a durable table for years of use. The Eclipse Hobby/Sewing Center can also be used with a computer or for extra workspace in any room.

Jeremy Swensen
Mountain style built-in desk study room photo in Denver

Inspiration for a small contemporary built-in desk medium tone wood floor and brown floor home office remodel in New York with gray walls

Photo by: Jay Sinclair.
Elegant l-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen photo in Other with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, beige cabinets, white backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and white countertops

Michael J. Lee
Mid-sized transitional freestanding desk dark wood floor and brown floor home office photo in Boston with white walls

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Inspiration for a transitional home office remodel in Charlotte

Children's study with custom built white wood computer desk. Desk was custom built to fit the spaces with white recessed panel storage cabinets. Children's homework area has light blue walls, white trim, white ceiling and medium hardwood floors. Architect - Hierarchy Architects + Designers, TJ Costello Photographer - Brian Jordan, Graphite NYC

Michael Lee
Inspiration for a large transitional galley gray floor and concrete floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Boston with beaded inset cabinets, blue cabinets, an island, soapstone countertops and stainless steel appliances

Looking to work from home? This house comes with a built in desk with plenty of storage in a dark wood study area.
Example of a large arts and crafts built-in desk light wood floor study room design in Oklahoma City with beige walls

Photography by Michael J. Lee
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary built-in desk medium tone wood floor and brown floor home office library remodel in Boston with white walls

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