The Power of Subtlety: Designing a Marshside Retreat
How Light, Color, and Texture Can Create a Home At One with Nature
by Alexis Johnson
The understated beauty of North Carolina marshlands sets the stage for a premier new home community. But beyond the perfectly landscaped exteriors and award-winning architecture lies meticulously styled interiors that echo the landscape beyond. Here, Alexis Johnson sheds light on her design choices that led to creating a home at one with nature.
"When I first walked through the home," says Alexis, "I was immediately drawn to the abundance of natural light. It was the perfect canvas to create a space that reflected the surrounding marshlands."
This philosophy is evident in her color palette–muted greens, blues, and grays form the foundation of her design work, allowing the landscape to take center stage. "The hues I chose emulate the natural world just beyond the windows," she explains, "creating a sense of connection with the outdoors as soon as you enter." Her chosen palette is also a nostalgic echo of her childhood, as she remembers the quiet calm of early morning drives through foggy marshes.
Beyond the calming colors, Alexis's expertise further shines in her furniture selections. Nestled just a few miles south of a Marine base, Alexis needed to be strategic.
"For Forest Ridge, I knew I wanted furniture that was both stylish and versatile," she says. "Military families often have diverse tastes, so I chose transitional pieces with clean lines and neutral tones that could easily adapt to different design tastes." Understanding the home’s location was first-and-foremost a beach town, Alexis also placed woven rattan furniture and pieces of driftwood throughout the home to add some coastal flair without being overly thematic.
"The goal was to create a space that's perfect for everyday living," Alexis concludes. "A place where families can unwind and connect, surrounded by the beauty of the coast." In the end, Alexis's vision has transformed this home into just that–a space that feels effortlessly connected to its natural surroundings. From the muted color palette to the subtle coastal nods, the overall design is a perfect fit for the new neighborhood’s diverse residents.
“…muted greens, blues, and grays form the foundation of her design work, allowing the landscape to take center stage.”
A muted palette echos the foggy marshes just beyond the window.
