A careful combination of building materials--native stone, board-and-batten siding, and cedar shingles--gives warmth and architectural character to the Chickering Country House. Built as the 1991 Idea House for Southern Living and featured in the January 1991 issue of the magazine, this house is an updated version of a vintage 1920s home design. Accentuating the best in country house tradition, this design features a stone-skirted basement foundation, deep porches, simple square columns, and a steeply pitched hipped roof punctuated by shed dormers front and rear. Simply detailed corner boards, cornice, and other exterior moldings enhance the country retreat look, while the light, bright interiors meet the needs of a variety of lifestyles.
Main Level Description
Inside, rooms are arranged around the foyer and its central staircase. Designed as a separate, special room, the foyer retains its function of welcoming guests and also sets the stage for the house beyond. Downstairs living areas flow from the family room through the breakfast area and kitchen into the dining room, study, and master suite. Most of the first-floor rooms offer 9-foot ceilings, with vaulted ceilings in the family room and master bath to add visual interest, as well as a feeling of spaciousness.
Upper Level Description
Upstairs, the staircase and gallery overlook serve to separate the three bedrooms. One bedroom has a private bath, while the other two share a full bath. A study nook is tucked in above the foyer. The plan also provides bonus space in unfinished attic areas above the garage and master suite.
