Crafting a Mountain Retreat

Written By: Marlene Osteen | Issue: November 2024

Jim and Cindy spent nearly three decades vacationing in the Highlands-Cashiers area, captivated by the drama and allure of the Blue Ridge Mountains, they reveled in its charms – hiking and golfing.

And so, when it came time to plan for retirement, it made sense to make this their second home. The couple, who plan to spend half the year in Highlands, chose the Plateau not just for its natural beauty but for the ease of access from Tampa and Atlanta for their grown children to visit. They sought a residence where they could engage with nature – where they could stay connected to their surroundings while creating a welcoming space for gathering with family and friends.

When at last they found a five-bedroom property in the Cullasaja Club, complete with a guest cottage, they jumped at the opportunity.

The challenge? They only had two weeks to finalize every decision.

“We were going to have to make decisions for every bathroom, bedroom, a brand new kitchen, and two levels of a home—all in two weeks. I knew I needed the help of a designer to meet the contractor’s deadline,” explains Cindy.

Julianne Hendrickson of Hendrickson Interiors, a designer known for her ability to blend nature with sophisticated design took on the challenge, working alongside contractor Mike Mincey of Mincey Construction.

Hendrickson’s design strategy was clear from the start: reflect the natural world surrounding the property, while layering in texture and subtle color. The home’s great room was anchored by a soaring stone fireplace, which Julianne retained to mirror the rugged landscape outside.

“The fireplace adds both literal and figurative warmth to the space,” she says.

Plush sofas and contemporary chairs in bouclé and crushed velvet provide a cozy contrast to the solid maple flooring, creating a snug seating area that defers to the panoramic views flooding in through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Hendrickson translated the couple’s vision into a design that not only showcased their love of the outdoors but also encouraged convivial gatherings. Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee, a soft neutral, was chosen for most of the walls to let the surrounding forest take center stage, while warmer tones in the living room built-ins and kitchen cabinets added richness and depth. A brass-strapped hood became the focal point of the redesigned kitchen, which was opened up to create more flow

Pressed for time, the team worked nonstop to meet the two-week deadline.

“We started by choosing selections the builder needed quickly, like bathroom and kitchen finishes,” Julianne recalls.
From there, the focus shifted to trim and millwork that elevated the space without overpowering the natural surroundings.

While phase one of the remodel wrapped up in record time, Jim and Cindy are already planning phase two, which will include a guest bunk room, a wine cellar, and a pickleball court.

“We absolutely love living here part of the year,” Cindy says. “Julianne really understood our vision—to create a space that felt connected to the beauty outside while being a welcoming retreat for everyone we love.”

designed by Julianne Hendrickson, Hendrickson Interiors
photos by Chris Restrepo, Penlight Media