Embracing Tradition

A pair of bell jar lights with clover etching from Edgar-Reeves Lighting illuminates the traditional entry foyer. The runner is from Bijar Oriental Rugs, Inc.

One of the many pieces in the owners’ art collection, a piece by Robert Jessup from Fay Gold Gallery hangs over the fireplace in the cozy den. The rug is by Moattar.

Hardware from Matthew Quinn Collection accents the handsome floor-to-ceiling cabinetry by Stewart Custom Cabinets in the light-filled kitchen. 

A plush sofa in Madeaux fabric through Ainsworth-Noah anchors a stylish, comfortable seating area in the spacious living room.

A French chair covered in fabric by Nina Campbell flanks the handsome fireplace mantel in the living room. The artwork is by Hadiee Becker through TEW Galleries.

A fascinating patterned wallcovering by Nina Campbell through Ainsworth-Noah and an antique chest converted into a vanity add to the air of sophistication in the first-floor powder room.

In the open living and dining area, an antique iron chandelier from Travis & Company plays off a more modern glass-topped Lucite table from Parc Monceau in the dining area. The gouache-on-paper tapestry is from Julia Boston Antiques.

In the primary bedroom, a subtly patterned wallcovering by Osborne & Little fosters a serene backdrop for an upholstered headboard from Ainsworth-Noah.

Marble from Renaissance Tile & Bath beautifully complements the cabinetry by Stewart Custom Cabinets in the spa-like primary bathroom.

An intricately carved wooden four-poster bed adds to the sense of tradition in the second-floor guest bedroom. 

Shiplap lines the walls in the guest bathroom, creating a crisp backdrop for a pair of pedestal sinks.

Coordinating with a floor lamp by Circa Lighting, a bench by Panache occupies a window niche in the guest bedroom. 

Painted box bay windows and matching arches accent the masonry home designed by Spitzmiller & Norris in Garden Hills.

Brick, shiplap and classic columns distinguish a poolside pergola in the lush yard.

Familiarity has bred contentedness for architects Rick Spitzmiller and Robert Norris and interior designer Carole Weaks, who have collaborated on many notable projects over the years. That sense of camaraderie came into play when they recently reunited to help longtime clients create their dream home in Garden Hills.

Detailed with linear shiplap-clad bay windows, arches and star-shape cutouts, the brick abode blends in seamlessly with the historic enclave’s traditional houses. “It’s inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement,” says Spitzmiller. “The brick detailing evokes hands-on work by skilled craftsmen.”

That attention to detail also defines the interior, which includes substantial moldings and mantels, custom hand-crafted cabinetry and an abundance of windows on all sides. “The quality of light is not typical for infill lots in established neighborhoods,” explains Spitzmiller. Flanking the fireplace in the living room, for example, a pair of tall, arched windows overlook the swimming pool and a pergola with shiplap siding.

Crafting a mood that’s formal yet comfortable and eminently traditional, Weaks complemented the architectural detailing with a pleasing medley of contemporary and antique pieces, incorporating many of the couple’s treasured pieces and artwork.

In the spacious living and dining area, for example, an antique chandelier illuminates a glass-topped dining table with a Lucite base surrounded by Parsons chairs upholstered in a lively fabric. Bold yellow table lamps and colorful abstract artwork contribute to the sophisticated milieu. “Some of the art leans more contemporary but in a very gentle way,” she says. “The most successful design looks collected, like it has grown over time.”

The mood is cozier in the study, where the walls and built-in cabinetry are painted in a deep taupe hue that “feels like it’s enveloping you into the atmosphere,” she says. It’s a chic backdrop for a mix of furnishings that include an antique wooden desk and a pair of chairs with cane detailing, which occupy a window niche softened by patterned draperies that play off the antique area rug.

Strategically placed wallcoverings likewise enliven the interior. A wallcovering with floral and architectural motifs distinguishes the powder room. And a light blue paper with a subtle geometric pattern adds depth and dimension in the first-floor primary bedroom suite.

While the project took longer than first anticipated, the longtime working relationship and camaraderie made it one all parties look back on fondly. “I was thrilled to visit with them last week and to hear how happy they were in the house,” says Weaks. “It truly was a wonderful collaboration.”

INTERIOR DESIGN Carole Weaks, C. Weaks Interiors, (404) 233-6040; cweaksint.com
ARCHITECT Rick Spitzmiller, Spitzmiller & Norris, Inc., (404) 812-0224; spitzmillerandnorris.com
BUILDER Davey Construction L.L.C.; (404) 256-1436