#United States #Charlottesville #Southern Living #Idea House

Southern Living's 2025 Idea House

Southern Living has unveiled the cover story for the September issue, featuring its eagerly anticipated 2025 Idea House, an exquisite modern homestead situated in the picturesque Virginia countryside. Spanning 4,500 square feet, this house embodies the essence of contemporary living while paying tribute to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The house will be open for public tours starting from August 14th until December 21st, with tickets now available for purchase.

A Unique Location

Nestled within the serene environment of Keswick Estate, just outside Charlottesville, this year's Idea House is surrounded by five acres of lush landscapes, offering breathtaking views of both a tranquil lake and the verdant woods. Designed to reflect a self-sufficient lifestyle, the home includes an orchard in the front yard, environmentally-friendly pollinator meadows, and a vegetable garden, establishing a perfect blend of modernity and sustainability.

Architectural Brilliance

As visitors approach the house, they are welcomed by a grand octagonal foyer that leads into a spacious living room, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning views of the lake and forest, effectively merging the interior with nature. The interior design is a harmonious blend of traditional elements and contemporary flair, brought to life through the talented vision of renowned interior designer Charlotte Moss. The decor features a rich palette of nature-inspired colors paired with locally sourced artwork, capturing the vibrant spirit of the community and the home’s idyllic surroundings.

Embracing Southern Hospitality

Southern hospitality is at the heart of this design, evident in the thoughtfully crafted spaces that encourage indoor-outdoor living. A gorgeous screened-in porch invites relaxation while a lakeside terrace, complete with an outdoor seating area and grill, sets the stage for gatherings and entertaining, all while enjoying views of the well-tended gardens.

Editor-in-Chief Sid Evans passionately described the Idea House, saying, "This is Virginia living at its best! Charlottesville and the surrounding countryside provide an idyllic setting, and our talented team has brought the home to life beyond anything we could imagine. From the tasteful architecture to the lush gardens to the gorgeous details of Charlotte Moss' interiors, the home feels like a glorious escape."

Collaboration with Leading Brands

The development of the 2025 Idea House saw collaboration with an impressive lineup of sponsors, including well-known names like James Hardie, Marvin Windows, Sherwin-Williams, and TimberTech. Throughout the home, innovative products and designs from these sponsors highlight the blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless Southern charm. Vice President Tiffany Ehasz emphasized that this year’s Idea House is full of inspiration, providing visitors with numerous actionable ideas to enhance their own homes.

Community Impact

Opening its doors for public tours not only showcases the beautiful design but also supports community welfare. A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to charities such as Building Goodness Foundation, Hospice of the Piedmont, and Yellow Door Foundation. Every ticket purchased contributes to a greater cause while allowing patrons to gain insight into contemporary home design.

For those interested in replicating the design elements of the Idea House, a Southern Living House Plan for the 2025 Idea House is available for purchase online. To experience the beauty of the 2025 Idea House, follow the virtual tour at SouthernLiving.com or visit your local newsstands to pick up the September issue for more details.

In summary, Southern Living's 2025 Idea House is not just a home; it’s a celebration of modern homesteading, community spirit, and innovative design that beautifully reflects the essence of living in Virginia. Don't miss the chance to explore this inspiring space!