Adding an Outdoor Kitchen

The owners of this Eastern Shore summer home decided that they needed a better spot for entertaining their far-flung kids, grandkids, and friends. They enlisted Washington, D.C., architect and friend Merle Thorpe to build an open-air addition where everyone gets together to cook, mingle, and catch the fabulous views and breezes on their Chesapeake Bay creek.

Architect Merle Thorpe designed the 40- by 19-foot addition (right) to nestle into the existing trees.

NextCapturing the View

1) What is the best investment when designing a home? “Original Art is THE investment that makes YOUR space an Original!  Against the calming neutrals of this Showhouse, original works by renowned Artists such as Jamali provide that all-important “wow factor.”  Bold statements in art define the tone of a room and tell the story of who it’s owners are!  Always buy the best art you can afford as these pieces become valuable investments both financially and emotionally to be handed down throughout the years.” ~ Jerome Farris

He doesn’t know it yet, but Jerome and I are going to be best friends. For those of you who read my blog regularly, all I do is rant and rave about the importance of art, and how it transforms a space. Art truly is the best investment you can make in your home!

2) What is Jerome’s philosophy on being an interior designer? “No successful design is achieved without time and careful research.  You must take time to physically discover fabrics, accessories, and furnishings that reflect originality and that will remain unique to your space.  No client wants to invest in decor they may also find at their friends’ homes.” ~ Jerome Farris

3) How did you come up with the design of your space? “While the basic elements of the showhouse living room are each neutral in color, careful attention to diverse material selection is a must. Velvets, linens, metal, glass and wood must all mingle successfully to achieve texture and depth.  The way these selections blend are what makes the design interesting and unique.” ~Jerome Farris

Dana Tucker and Brooks Tucker

from Bella Tucker Decorative Finishes are doing the Southern Living show house’s powder bath floor, the range hood, a ceiling in the girl’s bedroom, a custom concrete overlay patterned finish on the floor of the covered porch and the entrance to the guest retreat. Here she offers up their best tips from a painters perspective:

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