Design for the Carolina Mountains
A second home in the Blue Ridge asks different questions than a city house. Durability against weather, interiors that frame a view rather than compete with it, and materials that improve with hard use.
These essays look at how mountain architecture, climate and seasonal use should shape the interiors of a Carolina retreat.
Designing for a mountain retreat
Mountain homes face colder winters, stronger sun at altitude, humidity swings and heavy seasonal use. Interiors there benefit from durable, repairable materials — oiled wood, natural stone, wool and leather — and from layouts that orient living spaces toward the view and the best light.
Second homes also need to be easy to open and close: storage for gear and linens, finishes that tolerate time unoccupied, and furnishings that handle a full house of guests.
- Frame the view rather than compete with it.
- Choose materials that age gracefully under hard use.
- Plan storage for outdoor gear and guest linens.
- Specify lighting that feels warm on long winter evenings.
In the Mountain Living archive
- Designing a Second Home in Highlands, NC: A luxury interior designer's guide to designing second homes in Highlands, NC. From Cullasaja Club and Wade Hampton to Mountaintop Golf Club — materials.