EXPERIENCE THE COUNTRY COUTURE LIFESTYLE AT BLACKBERRY FARM

Own the ultimate country cottage at Blackberry Farm in Walland, TN (just 25 minutes outside Knoxville) in the scenic Smoky Mountains.  Screenshots from Blackberry Farm Living website (www.blackberryfarmliving.com).

When Apartment Therapy featured Blackberry Farm, the ultra-posh Smoky Mountain inn (just 25 minutes outside Knoxville, Tennessee), we couldn't resist visiting their website.  That's when we learned about "Blackberry Farm Living," an exclusive ownership opportunity.  The select few can purchase one of twenty-five turn-key homes and cottages at this fabulous resort.  We've posted some screenshots, but you'll find more information and gorgeous photos on their website.

Screenshots from Blackberry Farm Living -- visit the website to learn more about this exclusive ownership opportunity.

What we love most about the project is the development team's dedication to environmental and architectural integrity.  The homesites are carefully situated and "protected by thousands of acres held in a conservation easement," and guidelines have been established "to help owners create homes that reflect the spirit of Blackberry’s signature architectural style."


And that's only the beginning....

As a Private Owner, you’ll savor the exceptional tastes of the Blackberry community like never before. Cellars filled with extraordinary wines and spirits. Baskets of heirloom vegetables, charcuterie and cheeses waiting on your doorstep. From exclusive tastings to in-home events with master chefs, owners will enjoy unforgettable experiences, adventures and enrichment. -- read more at Blackberry Farm Living

The Joe Pye Cottage at Blackberry Farm.

The turn-key properties feature exquisite interior design.

If you'd like a taste of the Blackberry Farm lifestyle, you can shop their website, where you'll find artisanal products and gifts -- perfect for this holiday season.  You'll also find the Blackberry Farm Cookbook by proprietor, Sam Beall.  Click here to read some of the fabulous reviews, or even better, purchase the book online!

The Blackberry Farm Cookbook makes a fabulous holiday gift.  Purchase it at Blackberry Farm's online shop or at booksellers like Barnes & Noble, Amazon, etc. 

For more information, please visit:

• Blackberry Farm
• Blackberry Farm Living
• Blackberry Farm Shop
• Blackberry Farm Fall 2010 FarmStead Catalog

HUDSON RIVER VALLEY HOME BY RALPH MACKIN ARCHITECTS & CAMPION PLATT

I first stumbled across this magnificent home, designed by Ralph R. Mackin Architects, PLLC, AIA, with interior design by Campion Platt, in the July 2010 issue of Architectural Digest.

This New Home inspired by the original style of the vintage 1908 dwelling (now guest house) is part of a 100 acre estate , sits atop a sweeping lawn at the crest of the Hill over looking the Hudson River and Storm King Mountain beyond.  The residence is in the Shingle Style, with a touch of Colonial Revival symetry and porch detailing. It is subtle yet majestic, with 11 foot high ceilings and deep wrap around porches.  The porches are essential to the views, creating a transition point, and giving a human scale to the great outdoors. Large bay windows afford wide open views to all the Western River views, yet are classically detailed. -- Mackin Architects

I've posted a few screenshots below, but for additional photos and information, you can visit the following:

• Ralph R. Mackin Architects, PLLC, AIA
• Campion Platt
• Architectural Digest: "Dances with History," by Steven M. L. Aronson - July 2010 Issue

Stone and shingle exterior with wrap around porch.  Magnificent Hudson River Valley views.

Another view of the porch.  Note the floor-to-ceiling windows, which let it an abundance of light, not to mention views of the majestic Hudson River Valley countryside.

Another exterior shot, which features the outdoor living areas and swimming pool.

This is one of my favorite photos.  The entry hall sets the tone -- it manages to create a sense of place and a feeling of "home," which could have been lost on a house this size.  Look at the beautiful woodwork, cozy fireplace, unobstructed views from front-to-back, not to mention the gorgeous lighting fixture!