The secret to good design

I walked into this Charlotte home and immediately wished I could bottle the feeling. It was the little bit of sunshine and cheer we’ve all been looking for this winter.

The charming Charlotte home — with character and designer finishes — will leave you dreaming and energized. Every wall, every corner, every detail — intentionally finished. While I toured this home in-person, it was hard to capture it all in an Instagram Reel. 

So I partnered with the realtor, Meredith Tomascak, and interior designer, Anne Pearson, to bring you beautiful images that I think you’ll love.

Anne has graciously provided paint colors and other sources which I share below. I’ve also asked her to share some advice for homeowners aspiring to create a home that feels finished and personalized. 

If you find it helpful, please share with a friend and subscribe for even more like this.

Now, sit back and enjoy the tour.

The Paint | sherwin williams clary sage (railings and front door)

You have beautiful artwork. Where are some of your favorite places to source art?

Anne: I purchase a lot through artists I follow on Instagram: Caleb Mahoney, Renee Bouchon, Laura McCarty, Alexis Walters, Catherine B Jones. I also have been bidding on antique paintings on live auction like the one in the laundry room. I had that one reframed.

The Advice (from Anne) | I really focused on buying smaller pieces that I love and then put some money into the framing. It takes time to develop a collection. Decorating slowly is not a bad thing!! Take your time and get the bones of your house right first then work on adding all the layers.

Anne’s home has evolved over the last six years. She truly has lived into her advice to take your time and find the things you love.

For example, here is the entry way during the process of decorating.

Now!!

Your home feels so collected and layered. Where do you look and what do you look for when thinking about accessories?

Anne: I scour Etsy and consignment stores for accessories like old books and turnbridge boxes and my little collection of marble fruits. All of these together add so much warmth and character to a home.

The Wallpaper | quadrille arbre de matisse camel on tint

The Paint | sherwin williams clary sage (same as railings and front door)

The Paint | extra white by sherwin williams, tricorn black by sherwin williams

What advice would you give a homeowner just starting out decorating their home?

The Advice (from Anne): I will have to heed my own advice with our new/old house as it will not be done in a day a week or even a year. Good design takes time.

For more on this home, check out my Instagram Reel and the listing by Meredith Tomascak. 

For home finds I love, head over to my ShopMy page. Lots of pretty, new pieces!!

Home Tour: Countryside-Inspired Estate in Fort Mill, South Carolina

Last week I toured a countryside estate just about 30 minutes from me in Fort Mill, South Carolina. The property sits on over 6 acres and is affectionally named Briar Farm after the original owners 13 year old black lab.

Briar Farm is in a small town outside of Charlotte and has recently become home to my parents and sister as well. So when I had the opportunity to tour this one-of-a-kind English farmhouse style home, I couldn't pass it up. The builder and architect touched the home with layers upon layers -- going over the top with details from the wide mortar between the stones to the cedar shake roof. 

Inside, the home felt open and large with a generous amount of natural light. The kitchen had a paneled refrigerator, freezer and dishwasher and the range served as a focal point adjacent to a large bay of windows looking out to the pea gravel driveway and property. One thing that stood out to my inside was the use of tongue and groove panels on the walls which is perfect for high traffic areas since it doesn't dent when sports equipment, luggage and other things accidentally knock it. The side entrance mudroom is designed like something out of a Garden & Gun magazine and the homeowners love for vintage Land Rovers and a classic lifestyle is evident throughout the property. It's one of those "pinch me" properties that fully embodies a lifestyle that feels refined, luxurious and yet simple.

I hope you enjoy my home tour with New Old Custom Homes in Fort Mill, South Carolina. For more on the home, head over to Instagram here. And if you're in the market for a livable country estate close to shops and restaurants, Briar Farm is now for sale.

The exterior paint color is Sherwin Williams Oyster White.

Thanks for coming along with me to Briar Farm -- I hope you could feel the rustic warmth of the home with all of its architectural details and easy living. I was so honored to have the opportunity to tour it.

In case you missed it, the exterior paint color is Oyster White by Sherwin Williams. I get asked about paint colors all the time and while they aren't always available, I put together a blog post on non-white paint colors that add charm and character. It's all from homes that I've toured over the years -- and so good.

Home Tour: Dreamy Family Estate in Small Town North Carolina

After acquiring the cherished family home, Mary Margaret Underwood of Underwood Design embarked on a heartfelt renovation—infusing her own design sensibilities without erasing the property’s legacy. The result? A perfect fusion of historic charm and fresh personality—an entertainer’s haven thoughtfully refashioned into an even more welcoming, dynamic space.

I had the opportunity to tour the home with Concord and Charlotte-based interior designer, Mary Margaret Underwood, and can’t wait to show you around.

You may have seen the Instagram feature I shared on this home earlier this year. It’s here if you want to take a look but I’ll share more details, paint colors and sources below.

THE EXTERIOR

The exterior siding paint color isn't available but the shutters are SW Charleston Green. The front door is Fine Paints of Europe matched to the Charleston Green on the shutters. The planters flanking the front door are a beautiful non-rot planter from Eastover Collection. I love the stately boxwood anchor with mature but groomed ivy flowing off the edges. The landscape design is by Jeff Allan Landscape Architecture based out of Winston Salem. I've toured several homes he's done, including this one, and am always impressed. 

THE ENTRYWAY

The foyer is covered in a French wallpaper from Zuber called Eldorado which is a Block-Printed panoramic scenic wallpaper. It was originally in the home but after the home caught fire in the 1980's, Mary Margaret's mother had it all replaced due to damage. It was a design element Mary Margaret dare not touch when she acquired the home. The chandelier was moved from the formal living room into the entryway and anchored by her old dining room table that can expand and be additional seating for large family gatherings and parties. 

THE KITCHEN

The kitchen was completely redesigned and opened up to allow for more island and counter space as well as storage. The new appliances which include, a 36” SubZero Panel Ready Refrigerator and Freezer, SubZero 30” Under-counter Panel Ready Refrigerator Drawers, Cove 24” Panel Ready dishwasher, Wolf 24” Built in Coffee System, Zephyr Lux 63” White ceiling with internal blower and the jewel piece Lacanche Range, modernize the space while keeping the cabinetry seamless. The Lacanche French Stove and Oven Range is the Classique Changny 1800 style in French Blue with Brass Trim and definitely makes a statement. 

The countertops are Olympian White Danby in a honed finish with a unique twist on the kitchen island. The island had a mitered edge with a drop edge relief and custom carved profile making it just different enough to add some interest. 

The gilded iron linear pendant light over the kitchen island is from Visual Comfort and linked here. The bar stools are from Hickory Chair and upholstered in Lewis and Wood fabric. 

When I shared the home tour on Instagram, I had lots of questions about the breakfast table. It's the perfect balance of old in this new kitchen! It's a custom yew banded oval racetrack trestle table from Englishman’s Fine Furnishings. 

THE FORMAL LIVING SPACE

The large formal living room is filled with a mix of antiques and more contemporary pieces. The walls included! The artwork throughout the home was extensive and an incredible mix of antique and contemporary collected through travel, local galleries and passed down from family members. The oversized brown and blue rug anchored the room and helped to warm the traditional space. This one was sourced through Charlotte Rug Gallery. The room is painted in Farrow and Ball Pointing on the walls and Farrow and Ball Skylight on ceiling. 

THE CASUAL LIVING SPACES

Possibly my favorite room in the home was this blue drenched sitting room with warm brown tones and layers of inviting reds. The cozy space was a welcomed change from the large, more formal spaces that led to it. With bookshelves covered in family memoriabilia and meaningful artwork, this room is one of the most used by the family. It's painted in Farrow & Ball Light Blue.

 The additional casual living space is off the family bar and is perfectly furnished with four oversized leather chairs anchored by a custom ottoman game table. The natural light pouring into the room and sightline to the hydrangea filled landscape, make it a perfect morning coffee spot. 

THE DINING ROOM

The dining room is home to many of the family portraits and the original chandelier. It hosts a large antique claw foot dining table and has been recently updated with upholstered walls and a lacquered ceiling to add interest without taking away from its traditional design. 

THE BAR

The family bar is one of the most unique rooms I have seen in a home! It's a recent addition to allow for an indoor gathering space right off the pool and veranda. While it's all new, it looks and feels like it's always been a part of the house. Behind the smoky antique mirror is the television beautifully disguised and serves as a reflection of the rooms colorful and unique artwork. The tile floors allow for wet feet to enter the home to grab a snack or drink before heading back outside to the pool and veranda. It also allows Mary Margaret to entertain without everyone congregating in the kitchen. The bar is complete with beer on tap, a cooling fridge, dishwasher and wine cooler. 

THE POOLSIDE BATHROOM

The full bathroom off the bar is intended to give guests a place to shower off, change and use the restroom without having to come through the house. The fun bathroom floor tile is called Modulo Quadro Nero/ Sky and purchased at Renaissance Tile & Bath. 

BONUS CONTENT!

The back hall stairs are filled with more family photos and portraits as well as a more modern gold geometric wallpaper. The antelope stair running and stairwell lighting added a rich design element to the space. The entire home was filled with framed newspaper clippings and old store receipts from the family business dating back to Mary Margaret's great grandfather. It was truly an honor to walk the halls and explore the charm of this stately Concord, NC home that has been in the family for generations. 

All images in this blog are taken by Garden & Grace. For a full home tour including more of the veranda and exquisite backyard, visit the Garden & Grace YouTube channel. Be sure to like and subscribe to help make more of these home tours possible. 

SHOP THE HOME

Summer Curb Appeal in Charlotte

On a recent walk through some of Charlotte’s most beautiful neighborhoods, I couldn’t help but admire the lush, tree-lined streets and the timeless Southern curb appeal at every turn. From arched doorways and charming windows to slate roofs and rows of mature boxwoods, each home felt like a quiet classic.

I’m excited to share these with y'all and hope they provide a little design inspiration, whether you’re building, renovating, or simply dreaming.

All images were taken by Garden & Grace

A Fresh Take on Tradition: Touring a Timeless Myers Park Home by Becky Nielsen Interiors

Tucked into the tree-lined streets of Charlotte’s charming Myers Park, this recently renovated residence is a stunning example of how fresh style can harmoniously blend with timeless tradition. Designed by Nashville and LA-based Becky Nielsen Interiors, the home beautifully reflects the designer’s ability to marry elegance, functionality, and warmth in every space.

From the moment you step inside, the home’s character unfolds gracefully. The living room sets a feminine, inviting tone with soft pinks, delicate chinoiserie, and layers of texture that speak to both comfort and sophistication. Just off the entry, the dining room stuns with its classic blue and white wallpaper, traditional crystal chandelier, and exquisitely tailored drapes that frame views of the charming front porch—a favorite perch for neighborhood hellos.

The heart of the home is the expansive kitchen, designed with both family life and entertaining in mind. Two large islands offer plenty of prep and gathering space, while the main sink, thoughtfully positioned beneath a window, overlooks the side yard. A casual dining table and cozy keeping room complete the space, creating a warm, functional hub where everyone wants to linger. The kitchen cabinets are painted in a beautiful Farrow & Ball Wimborne White. 

A step down leads to a spacious living room with soaring coffered ceilings, built-in bookcases, and a striking fireplace topped with a marshland painting. Red and white textiles bring the space to life, adding bold character against the classic backdrop.

Tucked away downstairs is a rich, moody den saturated in blue tones, along with a jewel box half bath that channels Americana flair—an intentional contrast to the otherwise soft, neutral palette of the home.

Upstairs, the charm continues. Two little boys’ bedrooms, connected by a cheerful Jack-and-Jill bathroom, feel like something from a storybook. Each room is layered with playful wallpaper, tailored fabrics, and youthful art that feel both curated and cozy. 

The primary suite is a calming retreat, cloaked in pale blue wallpaper with a spacious en suite that rivals a luxury hotel: double vanities, a soaking tub, a generous steam shower, and serene gray and white tile throughout.

Outside, the large wraparound porch invites morning coffee and evening chats with neighbors in this walkable, welcoming community.

After years of thoughtful renovations and design work, this home is now the joyful residence of a young Charlotte family. Thanks to Becky Nielsen’s timeless vision, it’s a home that not only honors tradition but feels completely fresh—tailored for everyday beauty and lifelong memories. See more of my tour of this home on YouTube and Instagram.

HOME DECOR INSPIRED BY THE TOUR

Member Spotlight: Anne Pearson Design

At Garden & Grace, we’re honored to feature the work of talented professionals who elevate spaces and bring artistry into everyday living. This week, we shine a light on Anne Pearson Design, a creative force in Charlotte, NC, celebrated for her ability to transform interiors with a masterful blend of tradition and innovation.

Anne Pearson’s design philosophy centers on creating spaces that are layered, unique, and reflective of the lives within them. Her work gracefully merges the old and the new, honoring the timeless character of historical homes while introducing fresh, unexpected design elements that breathe new life into each room. The result? Interiors that feel lived-in yet elevated, familiar yet surprising.

With a deep portfolio of projects concentrated in the storied Myers Park neighborhood, Anne’s expertise shines in her ability to work with the unique quirks of original homes. From thoughtful remodeling projects that enhance architectural integrity to stunning designs that blend modern functionality with vintage charm, her work exemplifies the best of creative restoration and thoughtful innovation.

We’re thrilled to celebrate Anne Pearson Design and her commitment to crafting spaces that are as functional as they are inspiring. To explore her work and see more of her stunning projects, visit her website.

All images beautifully captured by Dustin Peck Photography.

Building out your home design team? Visit our directory which features a curated list of skilled designers, architects, builders and more. 

10 Photos for Classic Christmas Curb Appeal Inspiration

Walking through town looking at beautiful homes is always one of my favorite things to do. This time of year makes it even more special with enchanting light displays, wreaths and ribbons galore! Here are a few of the stoops that stopped me. 

A pair of topiaries will always be timeless to me. I love the understated elegance of dressing up decor you already have.  

My faux topiaries, which are around $220 for the set on Amazon, have lasted me years! Just add ribbon, like this peacock blue velvet option from Fig & Dove, for that festive flare. 

This home says joy to me! The warm glow from within evokes such a cozy feeling, and the lit magnolia garland creates an elegant entrance. The front door makes such an impression, you don't realize how simple the decor really is!

Garland and wreaths are hallmarks of classic Christmas decor. For a similar look, I like this cherry red velvet ribbon and this lit faux wreath from Ballard. 

Net lights are genius, especially if you want to extend your Christmas decor beyond your front door. No room-climbing necessary here!

A simple wreath brings the simplest holiday cheer. You can't go wrong with this classic look in my book. 

Wreaths on windows with red bows and a lit garland framing the front door make this home holiday ready. The symmetry is so pretty. 

This all-green look works so well with the home's ivy-covered facade and shutters. If you like how this whimsical garland drips, look for Norfolk pine or cedar. 

Lamps, giant baubles, lights, wreaths and a garland work together to create just the right amount of holiday cheer! 

I thought the placement of these wreaths was really pretty. It's slightly different than the on-the-window approach, but I like how it creates a triangle with the wreath on the front door. Plus, I always stop for a Christmas tree sparkling in the window. 

This arched entrance looks made for garland! Another understated look proves classic Christmas decor is all in the details. 

If you're already thinking about home projects for 2026, be sure to check out the Garden & Grace directory! It features 60+ trusted home professionals around the U.S., from interior designers to landscapers. 

20 Photos of Inspiring Exteriors in Fall

My camera roll is filled with exteriors that stop me in my tracks all year round, but there's something extra special about this time of year. I love how the light and leaves change, so even the homes that aren't accessorized for the season still feel festive.  

It won't surprise you that I'm a big fan of minimal, classic fall decor. Think: A few aubergine mums and a pumpkin or two festooning the front porch. I love the simplicity — and that it's appropriate until Thanksgiving. 

Take an autumnal walk with us. 

Get inspired with our latest home tour, where interior designer Kate Figler shows off her masterful ability to layer color and patterns for one personality-packed Nashville home.

Walk With Us Through Beautiful Charlotte North Carolina

I was lucky enough to grow up in Charlotte, and while plenty has changed, the tree-lined streets, lush lawns and beautiful examples of classic, Southern architecture  continue to make this place feel like home. 

Charlotte's oldest neighborhoods are now filled with a mix of original and new builds. I always appreciate when homeowners find ways to maintain their home's original architectural charm. 

The patina on this stately brick home makes it feel grounded and elegant all at once. 

The facade of this home has been recently refreshed, and we love how timeless the finishes are. 

You may have seen this classic Charlotte adobe on the Garden & Grace Instagram a time or two. It always stops me in my tracks. I love the winding sidewalk up the front door. 

This painted brick beauty was featured in our August Home Edit—and for good reason. The gentle arch of greenery over one window and slight asymmetry is so charming. 

You'll find quite a bit of painted brick in Charlotte—which we love—so there's something refreshing about seeing it exposed here. The Juliet balcony and deep navy front door dress it up just right.

No surprise—I'm totally charmed by the use of green here. 

Have you ever seen a sweeter storybook home? The twin clay chimney pots are delightful. 

I love a lime wash, especially paired with such classic shutter paint colors. 

I love how the glass front door brings a slightly modern touch to this classic brick home. The limestone surround and gas lantern give it a traditional frame. 

Looking for more Southern architecture? Stroll through Birmingham, Alabama with us.