Home Tour: A Renovation Story from 1990s to Timeless Family Home
In the heart of Charlotte, NC Mannerly founder, Elizabeth Anne, and her husband, Drew, thoughtfully remodeled a home that tells the story of vision, patience, and timeless design. Over the past three years, they've transformed an outdated 1990s house into a refined family home that honors classic architecture while flowing effortlessly for their modern lifestyle.
I recently had the opportunity to tour a beautifully reimagined Charlotte home that began as a dated 1990’s build and, over the course of three years, was transformed into a timeless residence full of character and warmth.
With Whittington Builders leading the construction, architect Kent Lineberger shaping the vision, and Whitney Sturge Interiors—along with finishing touches from Allison Davis Interiors—curating the interiors, every detail was thoughtfully considered. The homeowners, a young family of five with a love for entertaining, played an active role in the process, ensuring the design not only celebrates classic architecture but also flows seamlessly for family life.
You may have seen the Instagram feature I shared on this home earlier this week. It’s here if you want to take a look but I’ll share all the details, paint colors and sources below! A longer version of the home tour is also available on the Garden & Grace YouTube channel.
THE EXTERIOR
First things first! The exterior paint colors that balance stately and charming curb appeal. The exterior brick paint color is Benjamin Moore Dove Wing and the shutters are Benjamin Moore Essex Green.
The exterior received just as dramatic a transformation as the interiors. The original two-story portico and columns were replaced with a more proportionate, detailed portico, complemented by the addition of three charming roof dormers that lend balance and architectural interest. The home was expanded at the rear to accommodate a new kitchen, family room, breakfast room, second-floor primary suite, third-floor office, and inviting outdoor spaces including a covered patio and firepit terrace. Additionally, the stucco surfaces were refaced and enhanced with brick headers, all windows and doors were replaced, and the property was completely reimagined with a new driveway, lush landscaping, and the addition of a garden folly—altogether creating an exterior that feels classic, enduring, and perfectly scaled.
Elizabeth Anne, founder of Mannerly (formerly Charlotte Etiquette) is pictured below in her new doorway with custom designed sidelights.
THE ENTRYWAY
Stepping inside, the entryway immediately sets the tone for the home’s refined, traditional aesthetic. Spacious and welcoming, the foyer is defined by its beautifully detailed trim and molding, all painted in Benjamin Moore’s White Dove in a crisp semigloss finish that highlights the craftsmanship. Clarence House’s iconic “The Vase” wallpaper in Ecru adds a layer of timeless pattern and texture, creating a graceful backdrop for the architectural detailing. The stair foyer continues the palette with walls in White Dove and ceilings softened to 50% strength in a flat finish, lending subtle contrast and depth while keeping the atmosphere bright and elegant.
A discreet jib door blends seamlessly into the paneled walls, cleverly concealing a closet for storing the children’s toys—proof that beauty and practicality were given equal attention in this redesign. Keep scrolling to see the entryway before the dramatic renovation which serves as a reminder that with the right vision and design team any space can be transformed.
THE KITCHEN, SCULLERY & BAR
The kitchen is the true heart of the home, designed with both family living and entertaining in mind. Custom cabinetry painted in Farrow & Ball Shaded White creates a warm, timeless foundation, with walls in eggshell and trim, doors, and cabinets finished in satin for subtle dimension.
Overhead, large pendants from Lantern & Scroll—finished in a custom color to echo the adjoining scullery—add a whimsical touch.
High-performance appliances anchor the space, including a Wolf range, oven, and steam oven, a Miele refrigerator and freezer, Asko dishwashers, and a Liebherr wine fridge, all integrated seamlessly into the design. Together, these elements create a kitchen that balances modern functionality with traditional elegance. The before image of the kitchen is below, a striking reminder of how thoughtful design and craftsmanship can completely reimagine the way a home lives.
The adjoining scullery itself is a jewel box, with cabinets, walls, and trim enveloped in Farrow & Ball Lichen.
The bar which is the connection point between the dining room and scullery, with easy access from the family room and family room, is drenched in Benjamin Moore White Dove to seamlessly tie into the entryway. It's complete with trim rich custom cabinetry, a wine cooler and a hammered round bar sink.
THE LIVING SPACES
Flowing seamlessly from the kitchen, the family room continues the palette with walls, trim, and built-in bookcases all painted in Benjamin Moore’s Shaded White. A wide cased opening defines the transition between the two spaces, keeping them visually connected while still giving each its own presence. The room is anchored by a classic Visual Comfort ring chandelier and grounded with a neutral rug and coffee table that balance the color story. Two blue sofas and a pair of green Lee Industries chairs bring depth and comfort, while ornate details—like the Modern Matter hardware on the bookcases, the gold-framed Samsung Frame TV, and the molding along the fireplace—lend a sense of refinement. One of the most striking details is the trim work on the ceiling, adding dynamic interest and a sophisticated layer to the architecture.
Tucked away from the main living spaces, the study offers a cozy retreat painted in Farrow & Ball’s Oval Room Blue, a rich hue that brings both depth and calm to the room. Built-in shelving frames the space and is filled with meaningful family heirlooms, making it as personal as it is beautiful. Serving double duty as a home office and a private spot for girls’ mahjong night, the study is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can blend function with warmth.
THE DINING ROOM
The dining room has incredible thick molding painted in Benjamin Moore White Dove with a semigloss finish. The entire dining room is a study in timeless elegance, wrapped in Iksel’s Imperial Garden wallpaper in Celadon—a backdrop that brings depth, texture, and quiet drama to the space. At the center, heirloom antique pieces—including the dining table, chairs, and buffet—anchor the space with history and meaning, making it as personal as it is beautiful. A neutral, high-traffic rug grounds the room and ensures it functions seamlessly for a family with young children—I’ve linked a similar one for you here.
THE COVERED PORCH
The covered porch serves as a true retreat, perfectly positioned to overlook the backyard while offering comfort in every season. Designed with both beauty and function in mind, it features built-in outdoor heaters, classic copper lanters, and a flat coffered ceiling detailed with tongue-and-groove boards.
Copper caps crown each column—an elegant touch that protects against rot while introducing a sophisticated detail that will only grow richer as the metal patinas over time. The dining table and chairs are the Calcutta by Brown Jordan and the outdoor sofa and chairs are from One Kings Lane and while no longer available I'm linking similar ones here — together they create inviting spots for gathering. One of my favorite design features is the chippendale railings that add an extra level of southern flare to the porch. The homeowners had them custom made by Carolina Decks. The porch is covered with bluestone pavers, a high-end finish, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy white exterior and fresh white outdoor furniture.
THE BATHROOMS & LAUNDRY ROOM
The primary bath feels serene with custom cabinetry, Benjamin Moore White Dove trim, and walls in Sherwin Williams Misty. A chic vanity stool (linked here) adds charm, while classic Visual Comfort sconces (linked here) prove why they remain a timeless choice.
Fresh and sweet, the girls’ bath pairs White Dove walls with Farrow & Ball Cinder Rose trim and cabinetry. An adorable mirror (linked here) completes the look with a touch of personality.
Just beyond, the laundry room continues the playful palette with cabinets, trim, and doors in Sherwin Williams Pink Shadow. Outfitted with two washer-dryer sets, a windowed sink, and generous storage, it’s as hardworking as it is charming. A checkered tile floor and half-glass door finish the space with both function and character.
Downstairs, the powder room strikes the perfect balance of playful and elevated, with Farrow & Ball Pink Ground on the cabinets and trim paired with a lively patterned wallpaper.
BONUS CONTENT!
Beyond the main living spaces, the home is filled with thoughtful details that carry its classic character into every corner. The drop zone and mudroom strike a balance between function and style, with walls in Benjamin Moore’s White Dove and trim painted in Farrow & Ball’s Parma Gray in a satin finish. Modern Matter hardware adds a playful yet polished touch, making these hardworking spaces feel elevated.
Upstairs, the children’s playroom showcases the same custom railing design featured outdoors, crafted by AndronX of Indian Trail, NC, whose work also defines the stair railings throughout the home. Painted in Benjamin Moore’s Prescott Green, the playroom walls and trim create a subtle wash of color that feels both cheerful and timeless—perfect for a kids’ space. Their son’s bedroom continues this thoughtful use of color, with walls in White Dove and trim, doors, and cabinetry in Benjamin Moore's Serenata, a soft, refreshing blue-green in a semigloss finish.
Outdoors, the vision extends seamlessly to the landscape. Designed by Greenline Design and expertly installed by Audrey Kemp, the grounds complete the home’s transformation, balancing structure and softness to complement the architecture.
This home is a testament to what can be achieved when vision, craftsmanship, and collaboration come together. Drawing inspiration from some of the most respected names in classical architecture—Charles Hilton Architects, C. Brandon Ingram, VanderHorn Architects, Patrick Ahearn, Spitzmiller & Norris, and Purple Cherry Architects, among others—the homeowners approached their remodel with both reverence and creativity. Their “architectural bible,” Get Your House Right, served as a guiding resource throughout the process, ensuring every proportion, detail, and decision honored timeless design principles. The result is a home that feels both enduring and deeply personal, a modern-day classic designed for family life and gracious entertaining.
SHOP THE HOME
Summer Curb Appeal in Charlotte
Come walk the tree-lined streets of charming Charlotte with me - you'll find streets with sidewalks, original slate roofs and southern curb-appeal that's sure to inspire.
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
This Magazine-Worthy Atlanta Family Home Stuns with its Flawless Transformation
It’s hard to believe this large family home — with good bones and the perfect location — was once a dated 1970s single story ranch. Come inside!
It’s hard to believe this large family home — with good bones and the perfect location — was once a dated 1970s single-story ranch. New! Scroll to see before interior and exterior images provided by the builder, New River Building Co.
The Atlanta-area homeowners hired a formidable design team, including C. Brandon Ingram, Ashley Gilbreath Interior Design and New River Building Co., to rise to the occasion. They completed a truly stunning transformation — so good it was featured in Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles in 2020.
Today’s mini tour starts with the curb appeal! I appreciate how the homeowners went with a traditional brick exterior. You’d never know the second story is a recent addition, thanks to careful craftsmanship and the owner's discerning style.
The ceilings on the first floor were raised from eight to 10 feet as part of the remodel. I love how open the foyer feels, especially with all the character crafted by thick moldings and arched doorways.
The peach tones, neutrals and soothing blue-greens are carried throughout, which makes the house feel cohesive, comfortable and elegant.
I think having antiques is important for any home, but especially if you want a remodel or new build to feel more storied. This home is a picture-picture example of that. Even the brass pulls and knobs seem to have a little patina, adding to that lived-in but graceful look!
The kitchen and dining room are some of my favorite rooms in the house! All of the details in the dining room are perfection to me, including the Chaddock Furniture dining chairs, Zoe Design wallpaper mural and Iatesta Studio chandelier.
Last but never least, you can’t forget your four-legged friends when redesigning a home! The crate built into the laundry room is so clever — and the sweet pup looks so happy with their new “room.”
This home was beautifully captured by Emily Followill
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
A Design-Enthusiast’s (aka me!) Journey to an Elegant, Family-Friendly Living Space
As we move into the holiday and a cozier time of year, I’m feeling so grateful for my home. In the last couple of weeks I’ve talked about how I’m decorating this year, quick Christmas prep tips and my love for Fig & Dove, so today I wanted to give you a closer look at my living spaces.
As we move into the holiday and a cozier time of year, I’m feeling so grateful for my home. In the last couple of weeks I’ve talked about how I’m decorating this year, quick Christmas prep tips and my love for Fig & Dove, so today I wanted to give you a closer look at my living spaces.
I worked with Anne Pearson to pull together the living and dining room and am so happy with how it turned out! I wanted these rooms to feel unique, grounded and formal but still comfortable enough for our family to enjoy. Let’s step into my home!
LIVING ROOM
In terms of furniture for our living room, I wanted to design something that’s both timeless and cozy. These sofas are a collaboration between Lester Furniture and Cambridge Row, and totally embraced my vision. I also think mixing in antiques helps foster that timeless feeling in a space. My brown antique chest is from Canterbury Antiques in Nashville. After a lot of samples, I landed on Creamy by Sherwin Williams in an eggshell finish and Loggia by Sherwin Williams in a semi-gloss finish on the trim and fireplace. It's a warm, formal look that pairs so well with my blue-green silk drapes and neutral rug.
dining room
The dining room has become one of my favorite rooms in the house. I especially love the subtle pop of color we did on the ceiling. It’s Setting Plaster by Farrow & Ball in full gloss.
I’ve said it before, but antiques are a must in every room for achieving a traditional style. In this space, the dining room chairs are from The KS Collection, a wonderful antique store in Nashville. The dining room table was a result of a long-time search on Facebook Marketplace! Hint: search for "double pedestal mahogany dining table." It includes an extension and table pad, and I only paid $800. Besides one minor scratch it's in great condition. Definitely a favorite second hand find!
The lamps are from Visual Comfort and so is my chandelier! It's easily, one of my all-time favorite lighting brands and is constantly adding new pieces to their collection. Finally, I polished off the space with orchids from Botanica. If you’re in Charlotte you have to stop in (thankfully, you can shop online and at Scott's Market in Atlanta, too). Their flowers are real, but preserved, so they last for about five years!
conversation room
I’ve given you a tour of my conversation room before, so I wanted to share a few more sources! There are so many details I love in this room. The club chairs, which I love sinking into with my morning coffee, are from Wesley Hall. I have a couple of pieces from Poppy’s of Macon including the burlwood waterfall coffee table and the chest! I worked with Laurin White of Cambridge Row to pull together my vision for this space. It's better than I could have dreamt. Oh! and the federal bullseye mirror was also a Facebook Marketplace find that Laurin told me to immediately grab when she saw the picture of it. I paid under $300, a fraction of the price in most retail shops.
The rug in this room is so special to me. It’s from English Village Lane and the topiary details along the border make me so happy. It’s also incredibly durable and easy to clean, a non-negotiable in a house full of kids and pets!
The window treatments in my conversation room really pull the space together. The cornice boards, which are in Thibaut Williamson fabric, help the room feel buttoned up while the Schumacher brown check drapes add some whimsy — a perfect balance!
I share more about my Christmas decor here including this amazing no-fuss mantle garland that instantly elevates the room. For more sources in my home, check out my past blogs on the powder room and boys’ bathroom.
See How I Got My Home Holiday Ready With Fig & Dove
This holiday season I had the total joy of working with Fig & Dove to get my home holiday ready. I'm going to walk you through my living, dining and conversation rooms. Let the Christmas cheer begin!
This holiday season I had the total joy of working with Fig & Dove to get my home holiday ready. Interior designer Colleen Waguespack started Fig & Dove because, as a designer, she couldn't find holiday decor that complemented her clients' elevated interiors. Her pieces are meant to seamlessly blend with your personal home, and everything at Fig & Dove works together. I love how you can get one or two pieces a year and build a cohesive collection of timeless decor that you'll treasure forever.
I'm going to walk you through my living, dining and conversation rooms. Let the Christmas cheer begin!
LIVING ROOM
Let's start this holiday home tour in my living room! I just love the way our tree looks by the fireplace, especially with those gorgeous Fig & Dove stockings! The stocking holders are totally genius — they're very kid-friendly which is a must in our house. You can dress up your stockings even more by adding a bauble tassel. I went with the ombre gold option. I also love the idea of putting these on dresser knobs in a guest room so your guests get a dose of holiday cheer, too.
I use a lot of blues, greens and browns in my home, so I really appreciate how these ornaments work with the existing space rather than compete or stand out too much. The double glass ball ornament is so pretty and adds some unique dimension among the other ball ornaments. The gilded doves are so special but not fragile — again, a must with three little kids and a dog running around!
The classic look is polished off with a tree skirt, also from Fig & Dove. It's definitely an investment but it really pulls the scheme together and I know I'll use it forever.
dining room
I couldn't take my eyes off the dining room during this photoshoot. I'm so proud of this space and a few Fig & Dove pieces really made it shine. The gold decorative angel doubles as a tree topper, but I really liked having it on the table to help carry some elements from my living room into the space.
One of my favorite holiday decor tricks is to hang a wreath on mirrors. All you need to do is give this Fig & Dove boxwood wreath a quick fluff and then voila! It's tied with a sash — one of Fig & Dove's calling cards! They have so many options to choose from. If you're someone who likes to keep a wreath up all year, you can just switch out the sash depending on the holiday.
conversation room
Last but not at all least, is my conversation room. I was seriously impressed with the Fig & Dove gold magnolia garland we used in this room.
I find live garland to be pricey—considering you have to toss it every year—and have been on the hunt for a good faux option. I haven't found something with as much depth and texture as this one. It was super easy to lay across the mantle, too. It's an investment piece but something you'll admire for a long, long time. We jazzed it up with a few small stockings and flameless candles.
Looking for more holiday inspiration? We shared How I Decorate for Christmas and a Tuckernuck tablescape.
Curb Appeal: Discover the Architectural Beauty of Nashville
These striking homes are just a handful of the many charming homes that grace the winding streets of Nashville and its surrounding areas.
I was recently in Nashville for an opportunity to shoot a home tour that I can't wait to share with you. When I travel, I have a habit of strolling through the city's most established neighborhoods. The treasures I find often stop me in my tracks and I can't help but take a photo. Nashville was no exception to this tradition—I was totally charmed by its traditional Southern architecture, with homes old and new.
With their rolling estates, long gravel driveways and mature landscaping, these character-filled Nashville homes made the most gracious first impressions. Take a stroll with me.
The leaves starting to change color frame this traditional painted brick home perfectly.
I love how the double staircase entry mirrors the shape of the circular driveway.
Every time I look at this photo I appreciate something different, from the stone facade to the shingled roof to that enviable front door.
Have you ever seen a garage with so much character? The arched garage doors, climbing ivy and cupola perched right on top? Swoon.
Even the street signs in Nashville are charming. I love the horse detail here.
I love the scale, light blue front door and porte-cochère here.
A true storybook cottage, I just love the green peeping through.
What other cities do you want to stroll through with us? We've done Charlotte, North Carolina and Birmingham, Alabama so far. Tell us in an email.
SHOP CURB APPEAL FINDS
See Inside: A Magazine-Worthy Home Designed For Family Living
This Raleigh, North Carolina home was recently featured on the cover of Southern Home Magazine. It's a Master Class in how to design a traditional home that'll grow with your family for years to come.
This Raleigh, North Carolina home was recently featured on the cover of Southern Home Magazine. Garden & Grace is proud to show off a few more photos, thanks to interior designer Katherine Connell and photographer Dustin Peck.
It's a Master Class in how to design a traditional home that'll grow with your family for years to come—brought to life by builder John Sanders, architect Carter Skinner, interior designer Katherine Connell and stylist Kendra Surface. Let's take a look around this unforgettable residence.
The character is evident as soon as you walk in the door. With wide cased arches and openings, a delicately curved staircase and a well-styled entry, it's hard to believe this home hasn't been here for decades already.
The character is evident as soon as you walk in the door. With wide cased arches and openings, a delicately curved staircase and a well-styled entry, it's hard to believe this home hasn't been here for decades already.
The architectural details throughout the home give it so much traditional character. I love seeing that balanced with color, fun hardware and modern comforts like a built-in bar and large, open kitchen. It creates a skillful blend of classic and contemporary.
The dining room is one of my favorite spaces in the house. It really leans into that formality with a classic dining set, mural walls and an elegant, timeless chandelier. It feels like a treasure box.
You see a lot of soothing blues throughout the home, and I like how this living area is a little more unexpected, but you still see the blue through piping and a few accessories. The vintage framed panels and deep, plush salmon couches are truly one-of-a-kind.
Something that really stuck out to me in the Southern Home Magazine feature was how well the design team thought about building around the owner's current needs, while still planning for the future. For example, the bedrooms were all made larger than necessary for a small child—knowing those kids would grow into teens who still call this place home. It's that kind of thoughtfulness that makes hiring the right team so important.
I also really appreciated the attention to detail spent on the curb appeal and outdoor living spaces. In North Carolina we're so lucky that we're able to spend most months outside—and I sure wouldn't mind family dinners out here.
Building out your home design team? Visit our directory which features a curated list of skilled designers, architects, builders and more.
Walk With Us Through Beautiful Charlotte North Carolina
These new builds and renovated homes are just a handful of the many charming homes that grace the winding streets of Birmingham and its surrounding areas.
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.