Shoal Creek Private Residence

Birmingham, AL

This privately owned custom residence located in Shoal Creek, Alabama boasts 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths with multiple living areas. Collaborating with the owners to create this expansive estate was a delightful experience for our entire design team. Inspired by Mediterranean architecture, the intimate nature of this residence carries throughout the interiors with a balance of light airy walls and a warm palette of natural materials. Limewashed brick walls on the exterior of the estate turn to soft white walls inside with a thoughtfully stained wood ceiling overhead. The kitchen is the heart of this home for the Marinos since cooking, entertaining, and family time is especially important to their family. There was a focus on natural materials and classic shapes and forms that were timeless – oak, marble, and soapstone were used. Chamfered openings and curved structural walls created gentle thresholds between rooms while natural light floods the interior from the front courtyard.

The material palette was chosen specifically to reference historical precedent and provide different textures to appeal to the senses. From the limewashed brick to the lush greenery all details were considered in making this house both historically and geographically contextual. The welcoming stone patio provides a beautiful space for homeowners to gather and enjoy their extended outdoor living space. A custom steel handrail follows the gently curved wall, guiding guests up the light-filled staircase. As the home welcomes natural light, the dulled white tone of the walls balances the rich, warm tones of antique oak. The clients’ passion for cooking and entertaining inspired a space that was equally functional and charming. The thoughtful and collaborative selection of materials yielded a combination of painted cabinetry and a sealed antique white oak island, topped with both soapstone and white marble. White oak, marble, and limestone create the palette for the primary bathroom and support the overall airy and natural palette of the home. The intimate side courtyard entry adjacent to the garage serves as the front door for the homeowners and one of their favorite areas to welcome guests. The gas lanterns add an element of warmth to the space.

Although the homeowners are now empty nesters, they have their dream home that they’ll want their two children and grandchildren to experience for years to come! The Marinos proudly claim this Shoal Creek Estate as their legacy home.