Graciousness and splendor flood through every room and hall of Southern homes. One may be quick to point out that it’s the historic architectural details that gives a Southern home its sense of thoughtfulness. The real charm of Southern design, though, is its emphasis on building a place of character and soul.
Only in the South will you find a decorating code where comfort overshadows formality. Pedigreed antiques tell century-old stories of the many people and places they've lived—often within the same family. Hospitality and entertaining are always the top of mind for Southern decorators, with layered interiors and a lively host always ready to welcome you in.
Born in Atlanta, VERANDA strives to deliver a global perspective on the best of design, but we often return to our roots to understand how to make our homes feel just as warm and inviting as they are beautiful. Here, we take a look back at 17 extraordinary homes, from the Low Country to our current home base of Birmingham, Alabama, all of which exemplify the magic of Southern design.
This Modernist Lakeside Playground Proves Nature Is Always in Charge
A Lake Toxaway lodge takes root in the western North Carolina wilderness, giving rise to a cool summer playground that feels like a native species unto itself.
Birmingham's Most Beautiful Homes
Classical Architecture and Vivacious Patterns Mix Artfully in Designer Caroline Gidiere's Home
Designer Andrew Brown's Colonial Revival Is A Life-Size Cabinet Of Curiosities
Architect James Carter's Deeply Personal Birmingham Home Puts World-Class Antiques on Full Display
Decorator Furlow Gatewood Gives an Old Southern Gothic Home a Newfound Sense of Purpose
The antiques devotee found the 19th-century cottage, then saved it as a labor of love.
Classic Style in Nashville
Ancient Roman Architecture Makes a Playful Return in This Florida Beach House
A modern Alys Beach, Florida, home designed by Khoury & Vogt borrows lessons from ancient Romans, creating an artful, elemental playground for a young family of six.
Timeless Design in Atlanta
Geometric Motifs and Ravishing Neutrals Transform This 100-Year-Old Atlanta Home into a Art Deco Dream
Designer Amy Morris Borrows from the Cotswolds to Create an Elegant Atlanta Cottage
A Pair of 1840s Log Cabins Is Reimagined into One Stunning Woodland Retreat
In the rolling hills of Tennessee, a pair of 19th-century log cabins is transformed into a chic family retreat that's both rustic and refined.
The Lowcountry's Dreamy Retreats
Sarah DiMarco (she/her) is the associate editor at VERANDA, covering all things design, architecture, art, gardens, jewelry, travel, wine and spirits. She also manages social media for the brand.
