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Cottages and Gardens - The Cottage Road
Cottages and Gardens Magazine TABLE OF CONTENTS    COVER
Decorating

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Holly Gregor
Cottage Advisor
Holly Gregor is a freelance writer living in Louisville, Kentucky.  Gregor writes only on interior design, a passion she acquired after buying their first home.  Married with a young son, Gregor grew up in Austin, Texas and lived in Orange County, California for 11 years working as a television reporter.  After having their son, she pursued freelance writing, a more flexible career, allowing her to stay home. What Gregor loves about interior design is the combination of creativity and personal expression reflecting ones personality and lifestyle.  Direct questions or comments to HollyGregor@CottagesandGardens.com
Lorri Malone, A Freelance Writer Also From The Louisville, Kentucky Area, And Holly Gregor Collaborated On This Article.
Creating A Jewel

"I've always wanted one," she says of the enormous fireplace.  "This room is just so toasty in winter.  We really spend a lot of time here."

That warm feeling comes not just from the fireplace, but also from the tile floor that features wood inlays and is heated.  The cathedral ceiling continues the light and airy feel of the rest of the house as does the punch of color on the walls, in this case a Porter Paints Midland Green chosen by her paint-contractor-turned-beau, Davis Marret.  A breakfast nook and piano complete the multi-purpose of a room designed for family living. 

It's difficult to just walk through Ridge's house because you constantly want to stop and admire the many fascinating accents and finds, collected from all over the U.S., Europe, and Egypt.  And surprises lurk around every corner.  For example, while browsing books in the main-floor hall, you will find that one section of the bookcase is not actually a bookcase at all, but instead gives way to reveal an entrance to the master suite.  This set of hidden doors with a faux-book facade was custom made for Ridge to appease her sense of fun as well as her English sensibility.

Living Room
The soaring ceiling was created when Carlton Ridge had the walls removed to reveal the staircase and second floor landing. Drapes were made by Alice Mobley and the rug on the apple wood floor is from Fran Jasper rugs.


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Photos © 2002 James Moses
 
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