Preserving Architectural Heritage: Bellmeade Residence's Harmonious Blend of Past and Present

The Bellmeade Residence, a stunning Spanish-style house, was designed by Charles W. Oliver, staff architect for the River Oaks Corporation, back in 1926. Over the years, this compact yet picturesque home has undergone renovations and updates to keep up with the changing times. One such renovation took place in 1986 when William F. Stern and Associates breathed new life into the residence. Fast forward to 2014, and the current owners, Andrew McFarland and Gretchen McFarland, collaborated with HR Design Dept architect Eric Hughes to create a modern addition that seamlessly blended with the original structure.

With a keen eye for preserving the landscape and scale of the original home, Eric Hughes worked closely with the owners to adapt the older residence to their growing family's needs. The result was a beautiful 1400 square foot addition and a 600 square foot garage, completed in 2014. The goal was to create an updated space that respected the architectural heritage of the house while incorporating contemporary elements.

The Bellmeade Residence stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between the owners and the HR Design Dept architectural studio. The McFarlands, along with the talented team led by Eric Hughes, managed to harmonize old and new, blending the past with the present. The addition seamlessly integrates with the existing structure, creating a cohesive and functional living space.

The careful attention to detail is evident throughout the Bellmeade Residence. From the exterior, the Mediterranean influences are still prominent, with arches, clay roof tiles, and stucco walls. Inside, the modern addition complements the original design, featuring an open concept layout, contemporary finishes, and ample natural light. The result is a home that combines the charm of the past with the comfort and convenience of the present.

In summary, the Bellmeade Residence is a remarkable example of how architectural heritage can be preserved while embracing modern design principles. The collaboration between the owners and the HR Design Dept architectural studio, led by Eric Hughes, resulted in a harmonious blend of old and new. By respecting the original landscape and scale, the team successfully created a modern addition that seamlessly integrated with the 1926 Spanish-style house. The Bellmeade Residence stands as a testament to the timeless beauty that can be achieved through thoughtful design and collaboration.

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