5 Design Takeaways: The 2021 Southeastern Designer Showhouse STUNS!
This year's Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Southeastern Designer Showhouse is now open, and as always, it's amazing! Here are the five most noteworthy design takeaways. Enjoy your first glimpse at this design stunner!

Picture Rails
These gripping hangers might seem to be only for art museums and historical homes, but Whitney Ray’s paneled study makes what’s old seem new. Picture rails line the perimeter of her room and suspend everything from the drapery to the artwork. A stunning gilt mirror, also hung from the rails, bounces light from the home’s front windows around the moody study. Work would never seem like a chore in this room. Try picture rails for yourself by taking them as far up to your molding as you can before dropping artwork below.
Warm Surfaces
Countertops and tiles in cool blues and grays have been premiering in homes for years, but the showhouse proves that warm tones can be just as impactful while also adding a pinch of coziness too. In the butler’s pantry, framed by SOURCE ironwork, Natalia Makarova of Karpaty Cabinets worked in wood tones to complement the room’s veiny backsplash. Likewise, upstairs, in Nellie Jane Ossi’s bathroom, mauve tile (not blush), is surprisingly fresh. Don’t be afraid to warm things up with your hard-surface choices!


Luscious Linens
While Tuxedo at the Park leans contemporary, it manages to maintain Southern charm through its drapery choices. And these are not simple linen panels. Think heavy window treatments in rich-hued colors and dense fabrics. The first example comes in Hannah Stefanek’s foyer, which is framed with mustard silk panels to give the family privacy from the all-glass front door. In the bedroom designed by Amy Newell, a scalloped canopy drapes over the bed complete with tangerine tasseled tape trim. Speaking of tape trim, it’s everywhere in this house. Take a nod from the pros and use fabulous trim in various spots for that extra oomph.

Bold Walls
Before you think this is simply another wallpaper plug, think again. While wallpaper is still having its moment in the spotlight, you can get a bold wall in more ways than one. For example, in Melanie Turner’s bar, you’ll find a hand-painted mural that brings the indoors out, not the other way around. Loggia guests will feel as though they are surrounded by trees in every direction, including from inside the home. Beyond wallcoverings, there are also brave choices in the residence’s artwork. Substantially scaled pieces are everywhere, drawing the eye up towards the towering ceilings. When it comes to artwork, bigger is actually better. Instead of opting for a gallery wall, choose one large statement piece to capture some gravitas of your own.
Grounded Furniture
This year’s showhouse is all about furniture that sits low for comfort from the ground up. Think mid-century chic. Chaises allow for laid-back lounging, and even the master bedroom designed by Jason Arnold features a low-lying bed. The look emphasizes a casual vibe amid the palatial setting. Just because the home is posh doesn’t mean it has to be pretentious. The furniture selections feel personal and inviting. Want to get the look for yourself? Consider adding in a low-sitting accent chair or bench to your home.
Nicole Letts
Nicole is a life-long Southerner and freelance journalist based in Atlanta who relishes sharing the stories of inspiring Southern businesses and residents. When she’s not weaving her next tale, you can find her stitching cheeky needlepoint canvases or perusing area antique shops.



