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

Ken Wyner Photography
Trendy deck photo in DC Metro with a pergola

Inspiration for a large contemporary light wood floor hallway remodel in New York with white walls

Susan Gilmore
Example of a classic exterior home design in Minneapolis

South view. John Clemmer Photography
Inspiration for a large modern two-story flat roof remodel in Atlanta

Gibeon Photography This is a connecting hall between bedroom wing and living space. It also serves as a library and music room. The home is nestled into a hill side and has multiple levels

Marc Rutenberg Homes
Large mediterranean white one-story exterior home idea in Tampa with a hip roof

Heidi Long, Longviews Studios
Living room - contemporary formal and open concept living room idea

The layout of the original living room remained the same, with its lovely built in benches at the windows surrounding the fireplace. Decoration by Jenna Sheingold. - Dibble Photography

This exterior project was part of a total kitchen renovation. It includes a new pergola, porch with railing and aggregate concrete deck treatment.
Inspiration for a large timeless beige two-story vinyl exterior home remodel

Greg Premru
Example of a large beach style three-story wood gable roof design in Boston

Photo credit: Rafael Soldi
Example of a mid-century modern brown house exterior design in Seattle

This estate is built on different levels, complimenting its natural surroundings. The landscape is an entertainers delight and the views can be enjoyed from each room due to the use of panoramic windows and glass walls

Alan & Linda Detrick Photography
This is an example of a traditional water fountain landscape in Newark.

The Owners of a home that had been consumed by the moving dunes of Lake Michigan wanted a home that would not only stand the test of aesthetic time, but survive the vicissitudes of the environment. With the assistance of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as well as the consulting civil engineer and the City of Grand Haven Zoning Department, a soil stabilization site plan was developed based on raising the new home’s main floor elevation by almost three feet, implementing erosion studies, screen walls and planting indigenous, drought tolerant xeriscaping. The screen walls, as well as the low profile of the home and the use of sand trapping marrum beachgrass all help to create a wind shadow buffer around the home and reduce blowing sand erosion and accretion. The Owners wanted to minimize the stylistic baggage which consumes most “cottage” residences, and with the Architect created a home with simple lines focused on the view and the natural environment. Sustainable energy requirements on a budget directed the design decisions regarding the SIPs panel insulation, energy systems, roof shading, other insulation systems, lighting and detailing. Easily constructed and linear, the home harkens back to mid century modern pavilions with present day environmental sensitivities and harmony with the site. James Yochum

This multi level deck was originally all wood and failing. We kept the foot print and upgraded materials for longevity and low maintenance.
Example of a transitional deck design in Baltimore

Photo of a mid-sized traditional hillside mulch formal garden in Atlanta.

This multi level deck was originally all wood and failing. We kept the foot print and upgraded materials for longevity and low maintenance.
Example of a transitional deck design in Baltimore

Mid-sized transitional backyard deck photo in Toronto with no cover