THERE’S A SUMMER PLACE
By Brandy Woods Snow; Photography by Chris Edwards; Styling by Kendra Surface
This article appeared in the March/April 2026 issue of Home Design & Decor’s Triangle edition.
A Blue Ridge legacy retreat promises mountains, magic, and memories for generations to come.
Happy summers spent in the Blue Ridge mountains have a way of leaving a lasting impression. For the homeowners of this Glade Valley retreat, those memories shaped the dream of returning to create that same experience for their own children. When they discovered scenic acreage in the rolling hills of Alleghany County, it felt like both a homecoming and an opportunity to build something meaningful for generations to come.
“There’s such nostalgia in these mountains,” says the homeowner. “We wanted a home where our kids could be kids, our family could gather, and we could build memories together.”
Architect Clark Tate, principal at Point Office Architecture & Design, approached the project as more than a summer residence. “This was a very collaborative process, shaped by how the family wanted to live on the land,” says Tate. “We focused on creating a balance between shared spaces and privacy, while orienting the main living areas toward the mountain views. The result is a home that feels open, connected, and deeply rooted in its surroundings.”
The homeowners turned to longtime friend and designer Liz Carroll to bring their vision to life. Though this was their first professional collaboration, the relationship dated back to their college years, fostering trust throughout a full-scale new build.
“They wanted something entirely different from their traditional city residence,” says Carroll. “A design that felt fresh and unexpected, that reflected the surrounding landscape and remained highly functional for their family.”
Set on sweeping wooded acreage with panoramic views, the home was designed to blur the line between indoors and out. Expanses of glass invite the landscape inside, while a palette of rich woods, warm neutrals, and earthy tones mirrors the surrounding terrain. “We wanted the house to feel deeply connected to its environment,” Carroll adds. “The materials, colors, and textures all pull from what you see just beyond the windows.”
That philosophy carries through every space. The living room balances scale and intimacy, with layered seating arranged to highlight the views. In the family den, playful wallpaper and a plush sectional create a cozy retreat for movie nights. The kitchen—equal parts functional and refined—centers around a dramatic quartzite island, built-in banquette, and wet bar designed for effortless entertaining. Sculptural lighting, hand-finished furnishings, and custom millwork add depth without overwhelming the architecture.
Private spaces were designed with equal intention. The owner’s suite offers a serene sanctuary layered with bespoke furnishings and tailored textiles, while guest rooms provide warmth and a sense of quiet escape. Outdoors, durable yet elegant furnishings frame sweeping mountain vistas, reinforcing the home’s role as a gathering place in every season.
“Liz not only listened to me, but she also pushed the envelope in many ways,” says the homeowner. “The risks paid off. The house lives well; it’s spacious but not overwhelming, and the result is perfection.”
Ultimately, the home captures the essence of a true retreat—personal, restorative, and built to last. “It offers a true departure from everyday life,” Carroll says. “Fresh mountain air, expansive views, and a thoughtful connection to the landscape create a legacy the family will treasure for years to come.”