Working with a team of true craftsmen and artisans to design a project that is undeniably unique and pushes creative boundaries is a dream come true for the husband and wife team, Barrie and Matt Benson. The homeowners came to designer, Barrie, and architect, Matt, wanting to build a modern home that fit into their traditional Charlotte neighborhood. Their goal was for the home to look like it had been a part of the fabric of the neighborhood for years. Taking inspiration from Edwin Lutyens and the mid-century Marcel Breuer Hooper House, the Bensons achieved this by selecting traditional materials, such as mahogany, slate, brick, and bluestone, and using them in a new, modern way. Executed by senior designer at BBID, Elizabeth Stamper, the team carefully selected finishes and fabrics, coupled with a focus on materials to blur the lines between the interior and exterior and create a home that despite being modern, feels very warm and inviting. 

True collectors, the homeowners have curated a beautiful contemporary art collection and commissioned several special pieces for the home. Notable mentions include the custom stained glass window and mosaic tile sink in the powder room by Summer Wheat, garden sculpture by Mike Hansel, and works by Jackie Gendel, Halsey Hathaway, and Lauren Luloff.  A custom embroidered ceiling mural of the night sky by De Gournay reflects their family members astrological signs marking this home as forever theirs. The homeowners and their three daughters are each highly creative and have many passions and interests. The house is built on a slope, which the Bensons used to their advantage so the home feels respectful to the scale of the homes next to it. This placement provided the opportunity for lower level spaces to be dedicated to the family's many interests. Whether it's music, art, sports, or gardening, there is a space for everyone to explore their creativity. It's a true retreat in the middle of the city.

Architect: Matt Benson, Madison McNabb - Myer Greeson Paullin Benson

Interior Designer: Barrie Benson, Elizabeth Stamper - Barrie Benson Interior Design

Landscape Architect: Laurie Durden Garden Design

Builder: Gerrard Builders