Home Tour: Countryside-Inspired Estate in Fort Mill, South Carolina
Refined, country living in Fort Mill, South Carolina. This Southern Living featured home is now for sale.
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.
Spotlight on South Carolina: Garden & Grace Preferred Home Professionals
These South Carolina members reflect the heart of Garden & Grace — thoughtful curation, refined taste, and unwavering quality. We’re honored to have them in our directory and proud to share their work with homeowners who appreciate beauty and authenticity.
At Garden & Grace, we’re proud to showcase a curated collection of home professionals who embody excellence, style, and integrity. In South Carolina, our directory is home to a distinguished group of artisans, designers, antique curators, and real estate experts — each selected through an application process and approved as trusted members of our community.
Here’s a look at the South Carolina members currently featured in the Garden & Grace directory:
🎨 April Atchley – Artist
April’s art captures the serenity and soul of Southern living. With a talent for blending modern flair with timeless charm, her pieces bring warmth and personality to any space. A creative spirit, April Atchley is a must-follow for those looking to add some fresh color to your space.
🪑 Cottage & Vine – Antiques & Decor
Tucked in the South’s design-rich landscape, Cottage & Vine is a treasure trove of charming home accents and the latest must-haves. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind artwork or timeless pieces for entertaining, this shop brings a selection of curated finds that's hard to beat.
🏺 McIntosh Cottage Antiques
Steeped in Southern tradition, McIntosh Cottage Antiques specializes in well-preserved pieces that tell a story. Their collection balances old-world craftsmanship with refined Southern taste — a perfect match for homes with character.
🛋 Elizabeth Stuart Design – Interior Design Studio
A Charleston-based luxury design studio, Elizabeth Stuart Design is known for creating sophisticated, livable spaces with a deep understanding of scale, texture, and timeless beauty. Their work is a masterclass in Southern elegance with a modern edge.
🏡 Charleston’s Premier Realtors
Charleston’s charm extends beyond its streets — it lives in the homes found by these top-tier real estate professionals. Each offers unmatched local expertise and a client-first approach:
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Jane Dowd Real Estate – Known for her personal touch and in-depth market knowledge, Jane helps clients find not just a home, but a lifestyle and guides clients through every step of buying or selling with professionalism and care.
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Paula Yorke Real Estate – With an eye for detail and a heart for Charleston, Paula guides clients through every step of buying or selling with professionalism and car and is a trusted name for buyers and sellers seeking a smooth, informed real estate journey in Charleston.
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Ashley Graham Realty – With a passion for the Charleston community and a sharp eye for value, Ashley combines passion, insight, and integrity to help clients navigate Charleston’s competitive real estate landscape.
These South Carolina directory members reflect the heart of Garden & Grace — thoughtful curation, refined taste, and unwavering quality. We’re honored to include each of these professionals in the Garden & Grace directory and encourage you to explore their work. Whether you’re sourcing the perfect piece, planning your next project, or seeking a new home in the Lowcountry, you’ll find trusted partners here.
RECENT HOME DECOR FINDS
A Design Lover's Guide to Charleston
My husband and I were lucky enough to sneak off to Charleston for a quick getaway a few weeks ago! Child-free quality time in one of our favorite places before the rush of the holidays was such a treat. I shared a few of these recs on Instagram, but wanted to give them a more permanent spot on the blog, just in case it’s helpful for your planning!
My husband and I were lucky enough to sneak off to Charleston for a quick getaway a few weeks ago! Child-free quality time in one of our favorite places before the rush of the holidays was such a treat. I shared a few of these recs on Instagram, but wanted to give them a more permanent spot on the blog, just in case it’s helpful for your planning!
WHERE WE ATE
With so many incredible places to eat, it can be hard to pick. But we have some go-to spots we almost never miss and even tried a few new places! Here’s what we ended up doing.
Lunch: Lewis Barbecue
If you like BBQ, you need to add this spot to your list! They serve Central Texas-style, which is known for its dry-rub meats. Must try: green chile corn pudding.
Pre-dinner drinks: Post House Inn
A restaurant in a charming home, nestled in a charming waterfront neighborhood? Sign me up! We just stopped in for drinks this time, but the brunch is worth adding to your list. Post House isn’t technically in Charleston, but it's worth the quick (and scenic!) drive into Mount Pleasant.
Dinner: Costa Cuisine
This spot is relatively new and is quickly climbing to the top of my must-try list! They specialize in Coastal-Italian, so think of bright, fresh flavors. I would start with the scallop crudo and burrata and split the pasta special for your main.
Dessert: We ended our food tour with dessert at the Thoroughbred Club at The Charleston Place. You could also do late-night cake from Carmella's Café & Dessert Bar.
Breakfast: It has to be Miller’s All Day, one of the most-recommended places from y’all. The atmosphere and food were a great way to end our quick trip!
WHERE TO SHOP
Charleston has so many wonderful businesses. Here are a few I recommend:
- Elizabeth Stuart: I’ll never miss this well-curated home store with antique and giftable goods when I’m in CHS.
- Lake Pajamas: Some of my favorite pajamas for me and the kids! The fabric is SO soft.
- Salisbury and Manus: Another great home store with elegant finds.
- M Dumas and Sons: A stylish men’s clothing store that opened in 1917!
- Juliska: One of my go-to spots for all my tabletop needs.
- Buru: They have some really unique women’s clothing, made in small batches.
- George C Birlant & Co.: A high-quality antique store right in King Street.
WHERE TO STAY
This trip we stayed at The Charleston Place, which was so wonderful. I really loved the complimentary cruiser bikes — such a charming perk and one of the best ways to see the city! I’ve also stayed at Hotel Bennett, which is another fabulous option with a cute champagne bar.
Check out more Charleston recommendations on my Charleston Instagram highlights.
See Inside a Classic Charleston Home Transformed with Neutrals
This Charleston home stuns with its never-boring neutral color palette. I’m struck by the balance of formal and laidback Southern style that the home embodies. It’s a true representation of the city that built it, thanks to the brilliance of interior designer Melissa Ervin and architect Beau Clowney.
This Charleston home stuns with its never-boring neutral color palette. I’m struck by the balance of formal and laidback Southern style that the home embodies. It’s a true representation of the city that built it, thanks to the brilliance of interior designer Melissa Ervin and architect Beau Clowney.
It all starts with the double porch ceilings painted haint blue—it doesn’t get more Charleston than this!
As soon as you step inside, the magic continues. I can’t stop looking at photos of this foyer, wrapped in Gracie Studio wallpaper. I love how the chinoiserie design makes the space feel traditional, while the neutral tone keeps the space grounded.
The kitchen and formal dining room are just off the foyer, where the theme of elegant neutrals continues! You can imagine intimate dinner parties and family gatherings around that round dining table. Plus, who wouldn’t want to cook in a kitchen like this! The millwork on the ceiling brings in a coastal feel.
The primary suite looks like a calming oasis, punctuated with a pretty antique-looking chandelier. The other bedrooms shown also take a monochromatic approach. Dressing a room in one color palette creates an understated elegance.
Last but certainly not least is one of my favorite rooms in the house: the office! It’s such a clever use of space, filled with natural light and style. I really like how the glass partition walls allow the space to feel like a continuation of the landing and hallways. Plus, being able to close the door is essential for privacy while working.
This home was beautifully captured by Julia Lynn Photography
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.