Form, Function, Forever: The Story of a Custom Concrete Estate

Custom craftsmanship. Timeless design. Built to endure and inspire.

Architect: Tim Slawson
Interior Designer: Amy Vermillion
Builder: Rufty Homes
Location: Private Residence in North Carolina
Homeowners: Private Clients

Some homes are built to impress. Others are built to endure. This home — crafted in the heart of North Carolina’s Triangle area — does both, seamlessly.

This luxury residence combines timeless style with an uncompromising commitment to structural integrity — thanks to cast-in-place concrete construction. With durability at its core and custom design at every turn, this home reflects the shared vision of a detail-oriented couple and a team of industry experts.

A Personal Blueprint

For the homeowners, this wasn’t just their first custom home — it was the realization of a deeply personal journey. Their vacation home in Florida was designed by architect Tim Slawson, and the connection to that layout, along with a deep appreciation for Slawson’s style — inspired them to bring him onboard. Slawson, known for his thoughtful floorplans and custom home experience in Key Largo, worked closely with the couple to adapt the Florida blueprint to fit the sloping North Carolina terrain.

What began as a Mediterranean-inspired layout evolved into a French-English manor aesthetic, with key structural changes made to honor both style and setting. The floorplan was reversed, reimagined, and elevated — literally — to create privacy and maximize the wooded surroundings. A second-level pool now anchors the outdoor living area, creating a treetop hideaway from the moment you enter.

Curating a World-Class Team

The homeowners knew they needed a builder capable of executing their ambitious plans with precision. Their decision to work with Rufty Homes came easily, not only for their reputation, but also because Rufty was one of the few builders in the Triangle area with proven experience constructing in-place concrete homes.

In the words of the homeowner:

“There are people who say they can build concrete homes. Rufty actually can. The quality is unmatched — we didn’t even consider anyone else.”

They also brought in Amy Vermillion, a Charlotte-based interior designer known for her sophisticated style and deep technical knowledge. Together, this team created a collaborative environment that respected each other’s strengths, resulting in a seamless experience from planning to move-in.

Inspired Interiors, Built to Function

With Amy guiding the interior experience, the design process was deeply personalized, functional, and creative from the start.

“I do a huge intake — how they live, what matters, where they relax. Then I listen. The house starts to speak.”
– Amy Vermillion

Amy’s work shines most in the subtle, soul-filled spaces — a primary suite with separate bathrooms, a private sitting room and dry bar, and a kitchen designed for both quiet mornings and full-scale entertaining.

The interiors strike a balance of refined comfort and personal elegance. A beautifully tiled bathroom “carpet,” elegant wallpaper, vaulted ceilings, and a calming outdoor living space all contribute to the home’s distinct character.

The home features handcrafted solid oak flooring, sourced from a North Carolina mill, a bespoke kitchen hood, and custom cabinetry; no detail was left untouched — a testament to the pride of craftsmanship throughout the build.

“Rufty brought people back in. If something wasn’t right, they fixed it. No excuses — just excellence.”  

– The client on Rufty’s attention to detail

Other favorite moments include a moody, Chicago-style bar built with antique brick, custom cabinetry with brass inlay, and a stunning living room designed around natural light and architectural millwork.

Grace Under Pressure

“We knew we were building something special,” said architect Tim Slawson. “This project was a beautiful collaboration. The homeowners respected our team, gave us space to do what we do best, and we all shared the same goal: to create something extraordinary.”

Built over several years — and through the complexities of a global pandemic — the project wasn’t without its challenges. But thanks to open communication, mutual respect, and a shared dedication to excellence, the result was worth every delay.

“We all respected each other’s strengths. That’s rare.”
– Amy Vermillion

Built to Last, Loved for Life

The home’s structure will stand the test of time — quite literally — but it’s the emotional durability that will leave a longer impression: thoughtful collaboration, timeless style, and a team who cared just as much about the outcome as the homeowners did.

Today, this home is more than a structural marvel. It’s a place designed for everyday rituals, quiet moments, shared wine, and family celebrations.

“Rufty’s approach? It’s the yes of it all. If you can dream it, they’ll figure out how to make it happen.”
– Amy Vermillion

Ready to Build Your Legacy?

If you’re dreaming of a custom home that blends structure, style, and story — Rufty Homes is ready to bring your vision to life.

→ Start Your Journey with Rufty Homes