Southern Living Idea House

About the home

For more than 20 years, Southern Living magazine has built an annual “Idea House” on lakes, beaches and in quaint towns across the South, and each year anywhere from 30,000 to 40,000 people travel to see the location. The magazine chose Senoia, Georgia for the renovation of a 1830s pre-Civil War farmhouse. Older than the town where it resides, the house was in shambles in the beginning of the project, yet still possessed beautiful character and potential. The goal for both the designers, builders and the architectural team was not an historical preservation but a creation of a modern farmhouse that would blend the old with the new.

Location:
Senoia, GA
Style:
Historical Concepts/ Tracery Interiors
Product: Motorized retractable screens

View full PDF

The need

The design team needed to source a screen solution for the back porch that would enable future homeowners to create a secluded outdoor-living area where to relax and dine in comfort. It was important to find a screen that provides insect protection and offers relief from the afternoon sun, plus blends with existing architecture and the period style of the house.

The solution

What makes this project special?

This house was the first ever “renovation” idea home done by Southern Living. As part of the renovation, the house was lifted off its foundation and re-settled just a few yards away to create more privacy and space around the building!

Front view of American styled white home with wrap around porch
An American style white home with wrap around porch
Close up of front porch with open front door
Close up of back porch with table and white curtains