Six ways this rental does southern charm right
Since we’ve been talking about Savannah, Georgia and experiencing our own southern warm weather it seemed like a good time to refer back to one of the best historic vacation rentals I have stayed in. The combination of modern colors and clean lines against classic and traditional architecture created a space that embodied southern charm and southern hospitality. Here’s six ways the owners really got it right!
1. They knew to keep the entry classic
Past the red brick front facade and wood door on the outside you will be greeted by more of the classics-beautiful turned spindle stairs, modernized with a two-tone painted and stained look, rich colored hardwood floors and grand entry door with a stunning chandelier.
2. The modern furniture and lighting doesn’t look out of place
The living room had every color and texture in it to feel cozy and inviting. A quality wool rug adds a persimmon and teal color that is very pleasing with the leather ottoman and blanket basket in an otherwise neutral pallet. The light fixture is perfectly chosen to remind us this historic property can still co-exist with modern pieces.
3. The historic pieces still feel authentic
Meanwhile the fireplace surround in the dining area is fantastically vintage and original looking. There is no heavy mosaic tile or over indulgent ship lap element. It is allowed to look authentic.
The formal dining room at the center of the first floor plan has a traditional table with seating for 8 and a stunning chandelier that can be seen from the kitchen. The intention and function of this room is left original with the only update to the floor plan this cut out in the wall between the dining and kitchen.
4. They didn’t take the open concept craze too far
The cutout “window” allows the idea of open concept to be translated into an older home that would not benefit from removing all the walls. You can easily call out from the kitchen to a guest in another room as you prep food without being on display. The opening feels discreet and isn’t finished with a heavy or historic treatment. The counter top extends into the sill and the plastered wall wraps the corners to help it blend in.
5. The kitchen was given a modern extension that still fits with the floor plan
The kitchen is completely updated, and while the modern pulls, white quartz counters and subway tile is all very expected of this renovation, the relief comes in the preservation of the original floor’s warm red color and the darker painted cabinets against this hue.
Kitchens in these types of homes were compact but the owners found a way to extend the space by adding a wet bar and dining nook next to the kitchen at the back of the house.
Once again we have a blending of textures and materials that instantly draw you into the space. Striped pillows lend a golden hue that is reflected in the botanical art. The rattan window shade ties in the wood on the otherwise black wicker chairs. Another modern light fixture is funky and unexpected but quieted by the modest color pallet and classic marble table top.
This kitchen window picture tells the same story. Classic rosettes on the window trim contrasted against clean lined cabinets and a modern faucet. Warm rattan shade against a white and creme pallet accented with a black painted window. A light fixture with a classic shape that doesn’t distract.
6. In a current design world of grey and white, classic wood tones just feel right
The choice to keep a busy and vibrantly wood tone floor is my favorite element. So many remodels have added a grey tone luxury vinyl plank, and while that is a easy aesthetic that looks great in many homes that are removing dated ceramic tile, it would do disservice to a historic house like this that would be expected to have some wood.
That same wood tone is found in one of the remaining doors on the first floor that appears original in style and color.
An absolute stellar vacation rental in space, function and location. We were able to walk right out our front door onto a nice street around the corner from Colonial Cemetery. There is nothing better than staying right in the heart of the historic district of Savannah, Georgia within walking distance of town squares, Forsyth Park, Brighton and River Streets. From the flickering gas lanterns in front of brick mansions with ivy covered gates to the sleepy cemetery walkways lined with moss covered oaks, be sure to immerse yourself in the tales and lore when you visit. While there are plenty of shiny new attractions, the history is the special part of a town like this.
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