Nestled in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, our client’s custom home is a masterpiece of design, craftsmanship, and refined living. Brought to life by the expert hands of Rufty Homes, this residence embodies a seamless blend of architectural brilliance and bespoke interior elegance. With celebrated architect Carter Skinner leading the design and esteemed interior designer Katherine Connell curating the interiors, the home is a testament to intentional living, artful storytelling, and timeless sophistication.
For Carter Skinner, this project was an evolution of a long-standing relationship with the client. Having previously designed a home the client had lived in and worked with him on a previous residence, Skinner understood his client’s vision on a profound level. When the client acquired the lot through his realtor and partnered with Rufty Homes, the foundation was set for a remarkable collaboration.
The home’s architecture was meticulously programmed around the client’s lifestyle, with careful attention paid to spatial adjacencies, flow, and functionality. A lateral hall anchors the home, guiding movement with an understated elegance. Our client’s request for the staircase to be positioned on the far-right side was not just an aesthetic choice—it was a strategic decision to maximize natural light and maintain an uninterrupted flow between the entry and the main living spaces.
One of the most striking features is the vaulted ceiling in the family room, which seamlessly connects to the kitchen, creating a dynamic yet intimate environment. This space is further enhanced by a sunroom that runs along the back of the home, doubling as a dining area with a beautifully coved ceiling—an inspired touch envisioned by the client himself. Thoughtful design elements, such as a covered porch with a fireplace, reinforce the home’s livability while offering a sophisticated setting for entertaining.
Stepping into the interiors, one immediately senses the meticulous curation that defines our client’s home. Katherine Connell, selected for her discerning eye and seamless integration of art and antiques, ensured that every room reflected both function and personality.
With a remarkable art and antique collection, the client’s home needed to accommodate treasured pieces while maintaining a cohesive and balanced aesthetic. Connell worked closely with him to incorporate furnishings that resonated with his vision, drawing inspiration from his past travels and personal experiences. One of the standout features includes the large-scale bluestone floors in the sunroom, grounding the bright, airy space with a sense of permanence and refinement.
A particularly meaningful element is the antique grist mill that became a focal point of the rear landscape. Carefully restored and reinforced, this piece—an heirloom from the client’s family—was seamlessly integrated into the architectural vision, serving as both a conversation piece and a nod to the past.
Throughout the home, lighting played a defining role in shaping the ambiance. Our client’s understanding of high-end lighting allowed for an elevated approach, incorporating custom fixtures from Urban Electric and Ironware. Upstairs, the palette was softened with more understated selections, ensuring a balanced transition between public and private spaces.
This custom home is more than just a residence—it is a reflection of our client’s life, passions, and refined tastes. The collaborative synergy between Carter Skinner, Katherine Connell, and Rufty Homes resulted in a home that is not only architecturally stunning but also deeply personal. Every element, from the carefully curated interiors to the masterful layout, was executed with precision and artistry.
As Rufty Homes continues to set the standard for luxury custom homes, this project stands as a beacon of what is possible when vision meets craftsmanship. The result is a home that feels both timeless and deeply connected to the individual who inhabits it—a true celebration of bespoke living.
Experience a thoughtfully refined approach to custom home building with a friendly team devoted to achieving your dreams. With Rufty Homes, you’re assured of a gracious, tailored home building experience defined by distinctive beauty, timeless value and pure joy.
Phone: (919) 460-8550 | 5121 Kingdom Way Ste 208, Raleigh, NC 27607 | M-F 8 AM - 4:30PM | BuilderTrend Login
