Even though it is the smallest space Connie Vernich has ever designed, the 650-square-foot guest cottage that sits on farmland north of Nashville is one of her favorites.
Paige Rumore
“I think when you have such a small space, and you have to make every corner count, you spend a lot more time trying to personalize it and making sure what’s important is in that space,” says the Toronto native who has called Nashville home for 34 years.
Vernich, principal designer of Vernich Interiors, was hired by former client Jeannie Beauchamp to transform her old storage attic into a private retreat where out-of-town guests could stay when visiting.
The cottage, which exists above the garage, has its own entrance separate from the main house. Vernich says that she, along with Beauchamp and architect Sharon Pigott, worked as a team to create the interior space.
“We wanted it to be a relaxing retreat,” she notes. “This is a really small space but you can’t tell.”
Vernich says the lightly colored finishes, plus the windows Pigott added, make the space feel “bright and cheerful.”
Paige Rumore
The floors are white oak with a weathered oak stain. In the kitchen, cabinets made by Mid South Custom Cabinets are covered in a custom white paint. The cabinets were also integrated to hide practical treasures, including a refrigerator, trash can, and copy machine.
Vernich, who specializes in creating tailored spaces that are modern yet timeless, says she was intentional about designing every inch of the space, which was built by Steve Griffey Construction.
Paige Rumore
A former adjunct professor of historical architecture, Vernich loves mixing old with new. The kitchen island was designed to look like a modern antique. Seated at the island are a pair of leather, slingback, mid-century modern barstools. In the master bedroom, she utilized modern barn doors to shield the closet and bathroom. In the bathroom, one wall is constructed with shiplap but it was installed diagonally.
“A house can become boring if it’s too much of one [style.] I love being able to mix [it up],” Vernich says.
The homeowner had a sizable collection of family heirlooms and antiques that Vernich used to accessorize the cottage, including pottery and antique cowbells.
Paige Rumore
Above the kitchen’s farm sink is a sign with the street name where Beauchamp was born.
Another special area in the cottage is the affectionately named “Steve McQueen” room, which is the master bedroom.
Paige Rumore
The homeowner is a fanof the late legendary actor, whose iconic photo hangs on the wall. Artwork that is meaningful to the homeowner also graces a living room wall. Local artist Charlotte Terrell created a custom painting reminiscent of the landscape of East Tennessee where Beauchamp is originally from.
The homeowner is pleased with the personal touches of the two-bedroom abode along with the spectacular views.
Paige Rumore
“Connie is so creative and good. It was a really easy process,” Beauchamp said. “I love the windows so I can look out and see the woods.”
Vernich also appreciates a good view. She travels the world for design inspiration. Of the 30 countries she has visited, she considers France and Italy to be her top destinations because of the architecture.
Paige Rumore
As she prepares for her next international trip this year, she also looks forward to spending time with her three grandbabies. Her schedule is full but her passion for design keeps her going.
“Everyday, I love going to work,” Vernich says. “My mind is going 100 miles per hour, even in the middle of the night. I’m thinking of client jobs and imagining something different that hasn’t been done before.”