Modernity meets serenity in this stunning Nashville-area lake house, where statement lighting and a moody color palette redefine lake living. Take a look inside! Image: Allison Elefante
On the outskirts of Nashville, on the peaceful shores of Old Hickory Lake, sits a 6,005-square-foot home that redefines what “lakeside living” looks like. With its moody palette, sculptural lighting, and sophisticated edge, the newly renovated space is proof that dark and dramatic can still feel calm and inviting. And just wait until you see all of the incredible light fixtures!
PinStoried vignettes, a record collection, and a reimagined fireplace bring drama and balance to this living space. Image: Allison Elefante
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Completed in the fall of 2024, after nearly two years of design and renovation, this stunning project came to life under the direction of Sara Ray Interior Design, renowned for blending timeless comfort with modern character.
Initially constructed in the ’90s, the lakefront property had good bones but no longer fit the owners’ aesthetic. “Built in 1996 as a custom lakefront home, the property featured several upgrades by the original owner,” says Principal Designer Sara Ray. “However, by the time our clients moved in several years ago, the space felt dated and didn’t align with their aesthetic preferences or lifestyle needs.”
As touring rock and metal musicians, the couple wanted their home to mirror who they are — unapologetically creative and bold. “Their vision was clear,” says Sara. “They wanted spaces that felt dark and moody, yet refined … not theatrical.”
PinAn artistic centerpiece, the piano brings both harmony and visual contrast to this room. Image: Allison ElefantePinThe home’s modern design pays homage to the couple’s rock ‘n’ roll roots, refined with a touch of elegance. Image: Allison Elefante
“The floor plan incorporates space for their baby grand piano within the main living area, providing an inspiring setting for songwriting and collaboration,” Sara adds. “A dedicated listening nook within the living area was designed for enjoying music while taking in serene lake views.”
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Those views take center stage throughout the home. “Many of the main living areas, including the primary bedroom, were intentionally designed to take full advantage of the expansive lake views,” says Sara. “The living room and music lounge flow seamlessly into the breakfast room and kitchen, creating an open, connected layout that’s ideal for entertaining.”
PinWhat a view! Image: Allison ElefantePinDesigned to maximize natural light, the office offers an inspiring lakeside workspace. Image: Allison Elefante
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Sara’s signature design approach is evident in this home — a combination of modernity with warmth. “My personal design aesthetic blends a love for clean lines with a thoughtful mix of old and new,” she explains. “We collaborate closely with our clients to ensure their homes reflect their unique style: elevated, authentic, and truly personal.”
Here, that philosophy translated to a dramatic black-and-white palette layered with texture, lighting, and art.
PinA contemporary light fixture and sleek console create a striking impression in the hallway. Image: Allison Elefante
“We incorporated their personal collection of art and meaningful objects gathered from years of touring and travel,” Sara says. “A strong black-and-white palette set the tone, with deep black finishes and furnishings, with bold pops of color, creating dramatic contrast against crisp white walls and trim. The result is a space that feels personal, artistic, and unapologetically them.”
PinLike art suspended in the air, the light glows through jagged crystal forms. Image: Allison Elefante
Lighting plays a compelling role throughout the property. “The home features dramatic lighting throughout, including metal chain sconces in the dining room, large brass globe pendants in the kitchen, and a crystal prism flush mount fixture in the entryway — each piece adding depth and character to the spaces,” Sara says. That attention to lighting transforms each room into its own unique experience, from the shimmer of the entryway to the warm glow over the kitchen island.
PinNot every element of this home’s design came easily. “Designing the kitchen around the structural columns initially posed a challenge in achieving a seamless flow between the kitchen and living room,” Sara admits. “We’re pleased with how the columns ended up complementing the chain pendants, ultimately framing the island and defining the kitchen space beautifully.” Image: Allison ElefantePinA mix of materials gives the kitchen depth; every detail is intentional and beautifully balanced. Image: Allison ElefantePinA study in contrast, matte black finishes meet buttery leather seating. And check out that lighting! Image: Allison ElefantePinOpen shelving turns this compact bar into a stylish focal point. Image: Allison Elefante
The design also incorporates unexpected, tactile finishes that add personality and texture. “Large-format black and white veined tile in the primary bathroom introduces bold visual contrast and texture, creating interest without overwhelming the design,” Sara says. “The powder room showcases a distinctive black and white wallcovering with snake and squirrel motifs, lending a dark, captivating atmosphere that reflects the clients’ personality.”
PinFierce yet sophisticated, the wallpaper infuses personality into this polished bathroom. Image: Allison ElefantePinA soft floral arrangement brings balance to the bathroom’s bold design. Image: Allison Elefante
Art anchors the interiors as much as lighting does, and nowhere is that clearer than in the primary bedroom. “Nashville-based artist Ryan Rado’s large oil painting was the perfect centerpiece for the primary bedroom,” Sara says.
She adds, “I was searching for a piece that captured a specific mood — something that resonated with the homeowners’ personal style, while also hoping to highlight the work of a local artist. His work fit the space and the vibe perfectly, and our clients enjoyed connecting with him and learning about his inspiration for the work.”
PinSculptural lamps add form and finesse to the bedside. Image: Allison Elefante
Other highlights include a custom brass-and-glass bar off the dining room, a tranquil “Lake Room” designed for writing and reflection, and sculptural bedside lamps that turn the bedroom into a gallery-worthy retreat. Each room offers a different layer of the homeowners’ story.
PinThe dining area continues the home’s moody palette while adding a layer of elegance and intimacy. Image: Allison ElefantePinEven this bathroom design pairs the warmth of natural light with the modern edge of another artistic light fixture! Image: Allison Elefante
In the end, the moody palette, bold lighting, and highly personalized details came together in perfect harmony — a reflection of both the designer and clients. “This project was truly one-of-a-kind in terms of style,” says Sara. “We enjoy bringing unique concepts to life that really capture a homeowner’s personality, and our clients were thrilled with the final result, feeling completely at home in their newly designed space!”
Jenna von Oy Bratcher is StyleBlueprint's Editorial Operations Manager and Lead Content Editor. The East Coast native moved to Nashville almost two decades ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.
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