The Converted Cottage

By Katie Faulkner  |  Photography by Morgan Nowland

Linda and David Love moved into this home when they decided to settle down on Signal Mountain years ago. “It was a great home to raise our children in,” Linda says. It had trees and plenty of yard space in a safe neighborhood, as well as plenty of space inside for their four boys to run around. After raising their boys and watching all four move out on their own, David and Linda decided it was time to give their home an update. So with the help of Burns Construction Company, the house underwent a huge renovation in 2017. Now it is better suited to the time the Loves spend with all of their grandchildren and growing family.

Entering the home, the main living spaces have been opened to each other. What were once divided rooms are now spacious seating areas. In the living room, a new mountain stone façade was added to the wood-burning masonry fireplace. A sumptuous leather ottoman, bamboo roman shades, natural-finished wooden furniture, and the heavy grain in the new wooden floors all emphasize natural elements in partnership with the stone fireplace. Pottery lamp bases, botanical prints, and fresh flowers also tie in some earthy elegance.

While these features ground the space, creamy wall colors and pale upholstery keep the space feeling light and fresh. “We really wanted to brighten the whole house up with this renovation,” Linda explains. “The colors before were very dark and heavy. We chose performance fabric-covered furniture in these rooms to make them more kid-friendly. I’m really glad we did. This is where we like to watch movies with the grandkids, and this new couch has already survived some spilt chocolate milk,” Linda laughs.

Also open to the main living room is a separate seating area. Still part of the room yet offering its own identity, this space is surrounded by windows and serves as a more conversational area.

From the main living room, the floor plan flows into the open kitchen. A new, long island adds ample work space and storage for the Loves. Beveled-edge granite countertops pair with a white subway tile backsplash and brushed nickel hardware to create a bright and open space. “This room was very dark and also smaller. It was much harder to work in. But now, I love having this island. It’s so nice to use as a serving station for big family meals,” Linda says.

Brushed nickel pendant lights add a modernized and minimal flair to this updated space. White cabinetry and a focal wall of shiplap at the far end keep it feeling fresh. In the bay window, a window seat was added with a beautiful rustic round table for extra seating and more room for entertaining.

Off the kitchen is the formal dining room. This room features Linda’s mother’s antique Queen Anne-style dining room suite and china cabinet. David and Linda’s wedding china is on display in the cabinet. A new light fixture, recovered seats, new window treatments, and artwork add an updated look to the space. “I love shades of blue,” Linda explains. “They’re just very peaceful and uplifting.” Like the hydrangea in the centerpiece, many of the accents and wall colors chosen during the renovation were touched with hints of blue.

Upstairs, the master bedroom received a beautiful makeover as well. More peaceful colors and light sheers on the windows add an ethereal appearance. Marble-topped nightstands provide a nice crisp break from the rich wooden furniture. Glass jug lamps contribute visual interest with the sentiment of light materials. Above the bed, a trio of tobacco baskets are hung with artful plates featuring birds of the region to reflect the couple’s interest in nature and their surroundings. With a second story master, the window offers a clear view of the neighborhood and front yard.

Adjacent to the master bedroom is the master bath. This room’s renovation continues the home’s new affinity for light colors and touches of nature. A wood-look tile adds durability as well as a warmer appearance than bright white tile would’ve contributed to the space. “The bathtub is a huge soaking tub,” Linda says. “It’s really six feet long or so. And we liked this over a jetted tub because it’s lower maintenance.” With marble-look countertops, a marble-tiled shower, and marble-tile surround to the bathroom, the bright appearance helps this room feel clean, modern, and spacious. Shiplap behind the vanity is a durable and sightly choice.

There are three other bedrooms upstairs, providing plenty of room for overnight guests. “All the boys come home for Christmas and Thanksgiving. We love to have everyone over!” Linda says.

After months of planning and executing, the Loves finally helped their home, full of memories, make the transition to a modernized space perfect for their growing family. “We’re looking forward to more holidays here, keeping the grandkids, and watching them grow up, being able to see how they change,” Linda shares.

You Also Might Like

[related_post post_id=""]
CityScope Celebrating 30 Years Logo

Get access to the next issue before it hits the stands!