Seaside Classic

Blending historical architectural forms with modern comforts, architect Robert A. M. Stern designs an Alabama family’s dream house, giving special attention to spacious porches.

For this home, architectural classicism was reinterpreted for the coast with light and airy interiors. Three levels of porches, including one for living and dining on the second level, allow for big ocean views. Wooden coffer ceilings were first used during the early Renaissance as a nod to Ancient Greek buildings, where coffers were made of stone.

Products (September 2010): Rug, Dash & Albert. Garden stool and pillows, Wisteria. Lamp, Curry & Company. Uzbek pillow fabric in Jade and Mdder tablecloth, John Robshaw Textiles. Lantern, Melanie Pounds Interior Design; 205/877-9771. Custom light fixture, Robert A.M. Stern Architects. Furniture, JANUS et Cie. Canvas weave curtain fabric in Blanca and Holly Hunt Jake Stripe upholstery in Oyster, Perennials.