For a couple raising a family in the midst of the stresses of work and life, the desire for a relaxed and comfortable home results in a beautiful modern masterpiece. Almost a decade ago, they wanted acreage for their two young boys to roam and purchased a beautiful property in the depths of the Bridgewater neighborhood of Ridgeland. The partially wooded site featured open areas suited for plenty of sunshine and swimming, and while very close to town, the property felt secluded. A trio of mature live oaks situated in the front of the property was reminiscent of the wife’s hometown of New Orleans, and the pair knew this would be the quintessential setting for their dream home.
Recognizing the dwelling style they desired, the homeowners sought out the resident expert on clean, modern design with mid-century details, and approached architect John Weaver of Weaver Architecture with their intentions. For the next year and a half, the team met at the homeowners’ French country house in Madison, comparing preferences. They then converged repeatedly on Weaver’s authentic midcentury modern home in Belhaven to deliberate particulars. To adapt the design to fit the architectural guidelines of the Bridgewater neighborhood was a challenge for Weaver, but one that he ultimately attained. Certain elements generally in the mid-century modern style don’t fall in line with the more traditional impression of the surroundings. With Weaver working closely with the developer of the community, the team was able to cultivate a design plan that met their aesthetic and that of the neighborhood. “John created everything from the layout of the house to the interior details,” notes the homeowner. “He did an exceptional job optimizing the placement of the house on the property to maximize the views of nature.” By blending richly stained woods and crisp white brick mixed with beams of dark steel, Weaver designed a home that offers the impression of the easygoing way of life that the family desired.
At the architect’s recommendation, the couple selected contractor David Turner of Sustainable Construction for their building requirements. “When discussing the cost of construction and the desire to find a contractor that we knew would appreciate the style of the house and not be nervous about doing something outside the norm in terms of aesthetics and detailing, we thought David would fit in well,” Weaver notes. For the next 14 months, Turner’s crew worked to develop the modernized merger of brick, steel, and wood. The sprawling ranch-style house takes full advantage of the views of the property. Much of the home is a single room’s depth to enhance the natural light and portrays a modern feel by allowing the outdoors to be a part of the interior style.
Unique aspects, such as an interior brick wall running through the main living area of the home, had to be constructed before the framing of the home. This innovative process was unfamiliar for Turner. “It had an eerie feeling for a few weeks like time had eroded the rest of the house and left the masonry wall standing,” he says. The resulting structure is a favorite feature for the homeowner and what she describes as the “backbone of the home.” Spanning from the front porch and through the living area to the back porch, it houses the fireplace and wood box and creates a separation of the public part of the home from the private. Another appealing attribute is the angle at which the master suite is situated. By devising an intriguing hall intersection, a considerable expanse of windows frames the backyard spaces. The elevation of the master suite is slightly above grade, giving a feeling of being in a treehouse using the exterior views to the interior’s advantage.
The interior spaces are perfectly suited to the family’s relaxed lifestyle. With the informal flow. Stephannie Welsh, co-owner of Haven Curated Home in Jackson, offered a fresh design approach. Welsh worked with the family on their previous house and was able to bring a stunning selection of furnishings from that home to transfer into the new space. While doing this, she deliberately chose additional pieces to work with the new home’s modern feel. Though she enjoys working with any number of styles, the mid-century modern aesthetic is a preference she shares with the homeowner. “Modern doesn’t need to be cold and unapproachable,” Welsh notes. “Done correctly, the design feels inviting and cozy.” While focusing on an optimal balance of neutrals, color, pattern, and thoughtful negative space, the designer kept the overall look refined and well put-together.
She worked with the homeowners’ impressive collection of artwork, primarily from local artists, all highlighted by the home’s natural light. “Art is absolutely key to all of my design projects,” she adds. “It changes the feel and vibe of any room and adds color to speak to everyone who walks through the doors.” Harmonizing the bright, eclectic hues of artistic innovators such as Andrew Bucci, William Goodman, and Ginger Williams Cook with the clean lines and warm wood tones of the modern furnishings, Welsh made the homeowners’ personalities ever present in the design, showcasing their style with beloved inherited pieces from past generations. The contemporary finishes and methods, such as luxurious bathrooms, state-of-the-art appliances, and an oversized waterfall kitchen island allows enhance the home’s relevance.
To fully appreciate the thoughtful choices in the home, one must revel in the stunning views, both of the surrounding nature and of the exterior living spaces. The landscape was designed by landscape architect Bill Heimer, and each planting and landscape feature proved to be an essential decision for the overall outlook of the property. As Turner adds, “Working with the flat work, or concrete, around the house was enjoyable toward the end of the project.” Poured formed walls, decorative stone structures, drives, and walks intersecting and moving through the property add a subtle yet extraordinary vibe to the modern setting. The streamlined pool area is a stunning focal point and also serves as a fantastic gathering spot for the family, while the front porch boasts breathtaking sunset views.
When the homeowners appealed to their creative team to develop their ideal home, they knew they wanted a clean, modern design with mid-century elements that would function for their family. Each artisan fully achieved their goal, and the result is a vision, that features personality combined remarkable design.
