S.B. Interiors, led by Shannon Bowman, offers full turnkey design service for construction and decorating. This can include the full comprehensive planning phase, construction selections, space planning furniture, custom furniture selections and finishes, window treatments, rugs, artwork, and accessories. When helping with a new construction home, they work closely with the homeowner and the architect in order to see the whole vision and plan for the overall design. The architecture of the home is one of Bowman’s biggest points of inspiration. She has perfected blending the client’s tastes and style with the architecture to create the perfect design.
This project was a new home. The homeowners tore down their dated home on this property, purchased the lot next door, and built three structures to create one big home, at 10,000 square feet, that their large family could enjoy as a vacation retreat. The builder is Dave Knecht Homes, LLC, the architect is Michael Abraham Architecture, and the kitchen designer was Doug Durbin of nuHaus.
As Shannon describes it, the style leans toward a transitional Napa-inspired cottage with both traditional and modern elements trickled throughout. There are three structures all connected by walkways to the main house; two coach houses sit at the top of the property and one large main house by the lake—not to mention a grown up treehouse. The homeowners are always on the go, and have a very active family that includes six kids.
Designing for Lake Life
The driving goal was to create a cozy environment for the family to relax and soak up lake life. The homeowners wanted each space to accommodate everyone in their family so they could maximize family time and enjoy being together. With this goal in mind, Shannon designed a custom banquette with three movable tables on casters and architect Michael Abraham designed the home with large scale windows that capture views from every angle.
“We really focused on letting the lake and landscape outside be the driving force in design,” Shannon Bowman explained. “So, naturally, keeping a soft and neutral palette for the interiors seemed to be the perfect fit.”
To achieve that palette, the team used Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace white walls and then added layers of taupe and gray heavy linens paired with white leathers for durability. In addition, Shannon Bowman used natural wood tones along with deeper wood accents to introduce the natural elements back into the furnishings and pick up on the exposed oak beams throughout the home. Large spaces can feel too open or cold, but this home is all about feeling inviting and cozy.
“For the master bedroom, we felt the calming blue, gray, and white color palette would create the perfect escape. The calming colors not only feel so serene and luxurious, but also tied into the limestone colors on the fireplace.”
The outdoor area is also central to the home: white and gray boulders create pathways and the layers of grasses and greenery soften the edges. The result is a casual yet lush feel that’s visible from the kitchen, hallways, and two coach houses. The outdoor screened porch features a custom, hanging daybed. Meanwhile, the outdoor sectional allows for views of the lake but also views of the tv and fireplace.
Partnerships for the Perfect Retreat
The majority of the custom furniture was designed and sourced through Stanford Furniture. The outdoor sectional is Lee Industries. Abner Henry did a majority of the custom casegoods throughout the home, as well as the hanging daybed on the porch. Reaching Quiet made the custom concrete top for the console table that sits behind the sofa in the living room. Rugs were sourced through the Stark showroom and High Point Furniture Market.
What do you predict as top design trends in 2021?
We are already seeing a good mix of deep jewel tones being used with more confidence. I feel 2021 will continue this path of the jewel tones with soft natural elements balancing the act. Whether it’s stone, natural woven materials, or upholstery that softens the harder deep colors, it will surely make a statement.
What’s your favorite room color to work with at the moment?
Deep peacock blues and emerald greens. They are beautiful colors that add a bold statement without feeling overwhelming.
What’s one word to describe your taste in interiors?
My personal taste would be described as transitional.
What’s one design trend you’d like to disappear?
Bullion fringe! It can be the perfect layer for an eclectic style. However, it has always been one design feature that I have not been particularly drawn to.
