Home Tour: Dreamy Family Estate in Small Town North Carolina
In the heart of Concord, NC, a beloved family home has come full circle—recently purchased by granddaughter, Mary Margaret Underwood of Underwood Design. With thoughtful renovations and her own fresh style, she’s turned it into an entertainer’s dream while keeping all its historic charm. Outside, the backyard is a true showstopper with a sparkling pool, Chippendale railing, bluestone pavers, and plenty of space for gathering. Inside, the renovated kitchen and large bar with a sitting area make hosting effortless, blending timeless character with fresh updates.
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
November Home Edit: 5 Classic Home Listings We're Loving Right Now
It's the best day of the month, aka time to share November's Home Edit! If you're a new Garden & Grace reader, the Home Edit is our monthly series where we show off of on-the-market homes, hand-picked for the Garden & Grace community.
It's the best day of the month, aka time to share November's Home Edit! If you're a new Garden & Grace reader, the Home Edit is our monthly series where we show off on-the-market homes — hand-picked for the Garden & Grace community.
This month’s curated roundup features five traditional homes, sprinkled all throughout the south. It's no surprise, some of these beautiful homes have already accepted offers.
2824 Pump House Road - Mountain Brook, AL
4 beds | 3.5+ baths | 4,910 square feet | $2.25 million
This brick adobe is loaded with traditional character, from its charming curb appeal to its formal dining and living areas. I can picture many dinner parties and casual get togethers on the blue stone patio, overlooking the acres of mature gardens and landscaping.
This home is listed by Helen Drennen at RealtySouth.
2622 Dover Road Road -Raleigh, NC
4 beds | 3.5 baths | 4,720 square feet | $1.9 million
With its painted brick exterior, arched doorways, gracious outdoor living spaces and built-ins throughout, this home exudes Southern elegance.
This home is listed by Elaine Wood at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
2021 Spottswood Road - Charlottesville, VA
4 beds | 3.5 baths | 4,436 square feet | $2.9 million
This storied home was designed by famed architect Milton Grigg and built by RE Lee & Sons. It was Lee’s personal residence. I love the architectural details throughout.
This home is listed by Charlotte Dammann at McLean Faulconer
375 Farmington Drive -Charlottesville, VA
7 beds |8 baths | 12,728 square feet | $8.45 million
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this impressive estate sits on 43 rolling acres. It features an indoor pool pavilion, tennis courts and endless other amenities, just three miles from UVA.
This home is listed by Sally Du Bose at Sally Du Bose Real Estate Partners
610 Ivy Lane -Charlottesville, VA
5 beds |5 baths | 6,636 square feet | $5.795 million
Blue Ridge Mountain views, professionally landscaped grounds, multiple fireplaces, an orangery and abundant traditional design details are just a few things we love about this stately home.
This home is listed by Tim Michel at McLean Faulconer
Want to share your real estate listing with the Garden & Grace community? Submit your home listing here.
Our monthly real estate email and Instagram post are shared the first Tuesday of each month. Homes are vetted prior to publication to ensure they're in line with Garden & Grace's signature style.
How to Infuse Character in Your Home Through Millwork
From paneled walls to coffered ceilings to fireplace surrounds, millwork can infuse so much character into your home.
Whether you're constructing a new build or renovating an existing home, infusing character helps communicate traditional, classic design. From custom doors to fireplace surrounds to ornate moldings, custom millwork can elevate your home in a way you'll treasure for a long, long time. There's no room that can't benefit from those extra details, so we partnered with ITC Millwork to show examples where millwork shines.
Entryways & Halls
When I step into a home, the entryway often sets the tone for the entire space. The casing around windows and doors plays a pivotal role in framing these openings and can instantly elevate the first impression. I love the idea of using panel moulding and tongue and groove details to add dimension to the walls, creating a warm and inviting entry that welcomes guests. These small touches can transform a simple hallway into a memorable space that reflects your personal style.
Living Spaces
I appreciate the richness that walnut brings to a room, with its warm tones and elegant grain patterns. Incorporating custom millwork elements like coffered ceilings, built-in shelves, and decorative trim can add depth and character, turning a generic room into a cozy haven. Each detail contributes to the overall narrative of your home, allowing you to express your tastes while maintaining a sense of sophistication.
Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and the millwork in these spaces truly shines. Elegant box beams and cohesive tongue and groove details on the walls and ceiling create a visually stunning affect. I love how extending the cabinets to the ceiling maximizes storage and creates a seamless, inviting look.
Primary Suite
Millwork is one way to make sure your design is carried from the baseboards to the ceiling. In the examples we pulled below, I really appreciate how the millwork helps add dimension and elegance. These spaces feel polished and serene—ideal for a primary suite!
Outdoor Living
These details aren't just for interiors, millwork can also help create a luxurious outdoor living space. The mix of materials and wood tones here really creates an elevated entertaining space.
Infusing character into your home through millwork is an investment in both style and quality. Each element, from the grandest beams to the tiniest moldings, contributes to the overall charm and personality of your space. Working with a skilled millwork partner like ITC Millwork can help you achieve a cohesive design that truly resonates with your vision.
The trusted group works with custom builders, architects and designers in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Charleston. While they do not install these products nor work with homeowners directly, they collaborate with skilled local artisans who bring their products to life. Learn more here.
October Home Edit: 4 Connecticut Home Listings We're Loving Right Now
There’s nothing like the idyllic setting of Northeastern towns like New Canaan, CT — especially in the fall. This month’s Home Edit features four curated Connecticut listings we think you'll love.
Welcome to our latest edition of The Home Edit! We recently launched this monthly series to show off a curated selection of on-the-market homes, hand-picked for the Garden & Grace community.
There’s nothing like the idyllic setting of Northeastern towns like New Canaan, CT — especially in the fall. This month’s Home Edit features four curated Connecticut listings we think you'll love.
755 Northland Court
6 beds | 7.5 baths | 7,979 square feet | $6.5 million
The sprawling property won us over with its classic, clean interiors and ample al fresco entertaining spaces. We especially love the formal gardens and expansive bluestone terraces. Take a look around to see why this property is our featured home for October.
This home is listed by John Dunn at Compass Connecticut.
81 Canoe Hill Road
6 beds | 7.5+ baths | 9,452 square feet
This New England estate, which sits on 5.5 well-manicured acres, was reimagined by luxury home builder Hobbs Inc. and architect Mark Finlay. Listed at $7.4 million.
114 Ferris Hill Road
6 beds | 9 baths | 7,700 square feet
A Dutch door welcomes you int0 this impressive family home, which boasts a sauna, wine cellar and plenty of room for entertaining. The four-acre property also includes a tennis court and barn. Listed at $6 million.
This home is listed by Marsha Charles and Holly Slattery at Coldwell Banker Realty.
87 North Wilton Road
6 beds | 5.5+ baths | 8,497 square feet
Rows of apple trees dot the grounds of this elegant estate, once owned by Faith Hill & Tim McGraw and a number of other celebrities. Listed at $5 million.
This home is listed by Hannelore Kaplan at William Raveis Real Estate.
Want to share your real estate listing with the Garden & Grace community? Submit your home listing here.
Our monthly real estate email and Instagram post are shared the first Tuesday of each month. Homes are vetted prior to publication to ensure they're in line with Garden & Grace's signature style.
September Home Edit: 6 Southern Home Listings We're Loving Right Now
Welcome to our new series called The Home Edit! This month we were totally enchanted by well-designed kitchens and dreamy space for entertaining.
Welcome to our latest edition of The Home Edit! We recently launched this monthly series to show off a curated selection of on-the-market homes, hand-picked for the Garden & Grace community.
Large, well-designed kitchens and dreamy entertaining spaces captured us this month, from Mountain Brook, Alabama to Nashville, Tennessee. Take a peek—we think you'll feel the exact same way.
Atlanta, Georgia
755 Northland Ct—$1.295 million
5 beds | 3.5 baths | 0.53 acres
Classic Southern curb appeal waves you in, and the beautifully maintained and decorated interiors invite you to stay a while. The cream and green exterior grounds the home in timelessness, while the living spaces—including the kitchen with a large island—have been updated to meet modern needs.
This home is listed by Morgan Rogers with Dorsey Alston Realtors.
Atlanta, Georgia
89 Brighton Road NE—$2.49 million
5 beds | 3.5+ baths | 0.30 acres
We love a traditional Tudor, and this handsome home is no exception. The Brookwood Hills gem was built in 1928 and renovated by well-known architect Stan Dixon. It has an expansive kitchen, built-in wet bar and formal and informal informal dining spaces—making it an entertainer's dream.
This home is listed by Bonneau Ansley with Ansley Real Estate & Christie’s International RE
Beaufort, South Carolina
5 Waterside Drive—$2.45 million
4 beds | 3.5 baths | 5,525 sq ft
The idyllic coastal Beaufort, South Carolina setting paired with the brilliant design work by Historical Concepts is a rare, enviable combination. There are so many large, liveable spaces—inside and out—where you can lounge and take in the views.
This home is listed by Karen Glisson and Anna Johnson with The HomesFinder Realty Group
Atlanta, Georgia
3378 Valley Circle—$1.725 million
4 beds | 3.5 baths | 0.65 acres
There's so much to love about this classic Buckhead home, including the main-floor primary suite, screened in-porch and mature landscaping.
This home is listed by Robin Collins with Ansley Real Estate and Christie’s International RE
Nashville, Tennessee
2008 Tyne Blvd. —$4.25 million
5 beds | 3.5+ baths | 6,509 sq ft
This private three-acre estate minutes from Belle Meade has good bones—ready for someone to add their personal touch—and plenty of space for entertaining.
This home is listed Julie Dretler and Dixie Maggart with Fridrich and Clark Realty
Mountain Brook, Alabama
4 beds | 2.5 baths | 2,620 sq ft
We just love a sprawling ranch and especially one with original detail and a large lot! The opportunities are endless, and location is amazing.
This home is listed by Dale McIntyre with ARC Realty Co.
Want to share your real estate listing with the Garden & Grace community? Submit your home listing here.
Our monthly real estate email and Instagram post are shared the first Tuesday of each month. Homes are vetted prior to publication to ensure they're in line with Garden & Grace's signature style.
August Home Edit: 8 Southern homes we're loving this month
Welcome to our new series called The Home Edit! This month we were totally enchanted by the graciousness of Southern architecture, from Mountain Brook, Alabama to Charlotte, North Carolina. Take a peek—we think you'll feel the exact same way.
Welcome to our new series called The Home Edit! Each month we'll show off a curated selection of homes, hand-picked for the Garden & Grace community. This month we were totally enchanted by the graciousness of Southern architecture, from Mountain Brook, Alabama to Charlotte, North Carolina. Take a peek—we think you'll feel the exact same way.
Atlanta, Georgia
934 Hawick Drive NW—$2.95 million
5 beds | 4.5 baths | 6,500 square feet
With its magazine-worthy interiors, this home caught our for so many reasons. It boasts entertaining spaces made for idyllic holidays at home and traditional curb appeal—all within Atlanta's established Buckhead neighborhood.
Mountain brook, alabama
3827 Forest Glen Drive—$2.45 million
5 beds | 4.5 baths | 5,529 square feet
Built in 1945 and situated on a large, manicured lot, this charming home is in a sought-after neighborhood near Birmingham, AL. The interior of the home is spacious and well-maintained, but the gardens and expansive outdoor entertaining spaces really stole our hearts.
sea island, georgia
104 East Fifth Street—$22 million
5 beds | 5.5 baths | 6,798 square feet
Traditional classic architecture calls you home, especially with immaculate views on one of the country’s most luxurious islands.
Greenville, south carolina
5 beds | 7.5 baths | 7,000 square feet
This large estate is on nearly nine acres with impressive interiors and space to welcome friends and family. The impressive foyer sets the stage for the architectural charm that flows throughout this stately South Carolina home.
Atlanta, georgia
2620 Habersham Road NW—$3.7 million
5 beds | 6.5 baths | 4,948 square feet
Built in 1928 this idyllic Philip Shutze designed home is truly one-of-a-kind! The storybook backyard has us dreaming of fall in Atlanta. Plus, the balance of old-world charm with contemporary updates is truly remarkable.
Charlotte, north carolina
410 Colville Road—$4.45 million
5 beds | 4.5 baths | 6,138 square feet
Photographed by us many times, this home boasts of character and mature landscaping. It’s no wonder it went under contract so quickly at $4,450,000.
Charlotte, north carolina
2141 Colony Road—$1.65 million
4 beds | 2.5 baths | 2,620 square feet
Don't blue shutters make your hear flutter? Us too. We just love this classic Cape Cod-style home with the prettiest interiors—and in-town walkability, thanks to its Myers Park location.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA
2395 Dellwood Drive NW—$1.25 million
2 beds | 2 baths | 2,362 square feet
You may recognize this Buckhead cottage. It’s been shared on Instagram for its charming curb-appeal (hello, climbing ivy) countless times. We're not surprised this one is already off the market.
Want to share your real estate listing with the Garden & Grace community? Submit your home listing here.
Our monthly real estate email and Instagram post are shared the first Tuesday of each month. Homes are vetted prior to publication to ensure they're in line with Garden & Grace's signature style.
Member Spotlight: Andrew Roby Builders Talk Timeless High Country Style
We were lucky enough to catch up with Andrew Roby leaders ahead of those crisp High Country fall weekends. Let's dive into their portfolio—and hear all about that timeless mountain house style.
Andrew Roby, Inc. started as a one-man home remodeling firm in Charlotte 75 years ago. Now, the well-loved group is one of Charlotte’s premier luxury contractors with offices in Asheville and Boone. We were lucky enough to catch up with Andrew Roby leaders ahead of those crisp High Country fall weekends.
Let's dive into their portfolio—and hear all about that timeless mountain house style from Senior Project Manager Will Coble; Asheville General Manager Luke Nayes; and Boone General Manager Rob Logel.
What are the top features homeowners are asking for in their mountain homes?
Will: Views! Owners want to maximize what they can see and invite nature in with big windows and exterior doors, as well as large door sliders. They even take the railing on the exterior decks into consideration. Cable railing is big because it doesn’t block the view as much.
Luke: Lots of glazing (big windows) for natural light and to enjoy the views.
Rob: Large and numerous windows to capture long-range views. Large covered decks to create indoor-outdoor living space—and take advantage of the views. Bunk rooms with custom bunk beds for children, grandchildren or even overflow guests are big, too.
What’s your advice for creating character and charm that’s fitting for a mountain home?
Will: Don’t go too rustic. Incorporate natural materials that can be found all over the mountains, but in a more traditional sense that has been used over the past two centuries. We see a lot of locust posts, poplar bark siding, cedar shake roofs and large natural toned stones used frequently.
Luke: Hire a good designer—and add lots of natural wood materials.
Rob: Over the years we have learned that taste is a very personal thing. However, incorporating reclaimed wood into a project can add an element of charm. Some examples could be a reclaimed oak floor, a barn wood accent wall done with reclaimed mixed hardwoods—or if you're lucky enough to be able to source it, wormy Chestnut. Also keep in mind that a mountain home does not need to be all wood and rustic. Some of our favorite projects have been Mountain Contemporary which contain some of the wood elements listed above with some of the straight clean lines of modern construction.
Photos by Jonathan Burton Photography; Design team includes Meyer Greeson Paullin Benson & Kate Miles Interior Design
Photos by Jonathan Burton Photography; Design team includes Don Duffy Architecture & Susan Dudley Design
What mountain towns have Andrew Roby been building in lately?
Linville, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Hendersonville, Asheville, Cashiers, Lake Lure and Biltmore Forest.
Photos by Burton Photography; Designed by Pursley Dixon Architecture
Andrew Roby is part of the Garden & Grace directory, the trusted source for homeowners to find the right partner to help make their dreams a reality. Interested in being part of the directory? Apply today.
SHOP MOUNTAIN-INSPIRED LOOKS
