2002 Idea House: Abberley Lane

Nestled in a landscape of oaks and loblolly pines, Abberley Lane is just a 15-minute drive, but worlds away, from the bustle of historic downtown Savannah. As part of the community of Westbrook at Savannah Quarters, this house boasts picturesque views of verdant fairways and a lagoon from the back porch, while its front facade overlooks a quiet lane. The architect, builder, and interior designers worked in tandem to create a home that combines Southern graciousness with all the amenities of modern design.

Historic Southern Details
Architect John Tee drew his inspiration from the beautiful homes of Savannah, Mobile, New Orleans, and Natchez. "They share a common richness that is derived from classical proportions and excellent detailing," he says. Ornamental ironwork, plantation shutters, French doors, gas lanterns, fanlight transoms, copper accents, and a formal entrance marked by a pediment and columns reflect that influence.

To create a distinct look and an aged appearance, builders Greg Hall and Steve Hall even treated the brick exterior with a rubbed mortar finish. John did not neglect an iconic element of Southern architecture--deep-set porches were added to the front and back of the house.

Architectural Elements Brought Indoors
The interior of this home complements the handsome facade. Greg and Steve subtly repeated materials from the exterior throughout the inside. For example, the iron balcony overlooking the family room reflects the ornamental railing of the front porch, while the copper crown molding in the kitchen echoes the copper roofing. Heart-pine flooring was used for an antique feel.

Native Plantings
The landscape, designed by Chuck Handley, capitalizes on typical native Southern plants, such as magnolias, 'Muskogee' crepe myrtles, viburnums, and azaleas, with little pockets of color and seasonal blooms.

Formal Spaces
A decorative garden lantern crowns the foyer ceiling, reinforcing the outdoor theme. The foyer opens on either side to the living and dining rooms through double cased openings copied from a historic Savannah home. A painted faux trim complements the casings. "The front of the house is more formal and traditional with a central hall, adjoining parlor rooms, and 10-foot ceilings," explains John. "As you progress to the rear, the design becomes more informal with an open, relaxed floor plan for today's more casual lifestyles."

Savannah Color Palette
When it came time to fill the interiors, designers Joci Firth and Cullen Albright derived inspiration from the natural beauty of the region. The color palette for the house takes its cues from the lush Lowcountry landscape. "We used primarily yellow, with accents of greens, golds, and blue-greens that call to mind the colors of the marshes and coastal islands," explains Joci. "The saffron yellow and green tones represent the rice plantations and marsh grass."