PRE-DESIGNED COTTAGE & FARMHOUSE PLANS BY NEW SOUTH CLASSICS

In an earlier post, we told you about beautiful pre-designed house plans by Spitzmiller & Norris, and now, we'd like to tell you about New South Classics.  We first learned about this firm when we stumbled upon their collection of homes designed specifically for Homestead Preserve, a luxury community nestled in the rural splendor of Virginia’s Allegheny Highlands.

Although we've provided a few screenshots of some of our favorite designs, we encourage you to visit the New South Classics' website to view their full portfolio and learn more.

The Great American Heritage Collection by New South Classics is comprised of The Charleston Classics Collection, The Homestead Preserve Portfolio and The Mountain Living Classics Collection, all of which pay homage to our country's wonderful vernacular architecture.

The Homesteader Farmhouse -- A Southern Living Exclusive by New South Classics

Valley View Farmhouse -- A Southern Living Exclusive by New South Classics

New South Classics also offers several house plan collections inspired by European design: The English Cottage Classics Collection, The French Country Classics Collection and The Italian Classics Collection.

Fireside Cottage by New South Classics

Weobley Cottage (A Southern Living Exclusive) by New South Classics

To learn more about these and other beautiful home designs by New South Classics, please visit their website at www.newsouthclassics.com.

HUDSON RIVER VALLEY HOME BY RALPH MACKIN ARCHITECTS & CAMPION PLATT

I first stumbled across this magnificent home, designed by Ralph R. Mackin Architects, PLLC, AIA, with interior design by Campion Platt, in the July 2010 issue of Architectural Digest.

This New Home inspired by the original style of the vintage 1908 dwelling (now guest house) is part of a 100 acre estate , sits atop a sweeping lawn at the crest of the Hill over looking the Hudson River and Storm King Mountain beyond.  The residence is in the Shingle Style, with a touch of Colonial Revival symetry and porch detailing. It is subtle yet majestic, with 11 foot high ceilings and deep wrap around porches.  The porches are essential to the views, creating a transition point, and giving a human scale to the great outdoors. Large bay windows afford wide open views to all the Western River views, yet are classically detailed. -- Mackin Architects

I've posted a few screenshots below, but for additional photos and information, you can visit the following:

• Ralph R. Mackin Architects, PLLC, AIA
• Campion Platt
• Architectural Digest: "Dances with History," by Steven M. L. Aronson - July 2010 Issue

Stone and shingle exterior with wrap around porch.  Magnificent Hudson River Valley views.

Another view of the porch.  Note the floor-to-ceiling windows, which let it an abundance of light, not to mention views of the majestic Hudson River Valley countryside.

Another exterior shot, which features the outdoor living areas and swimming pool.

This is one of my favorite photos.  The entry hall sets the tone -- it manages to create a sense of place and a feeling of "home," which could have been lost on a house this size.  Look at the beautiful woodwork, cozy fireplace, unobstructed views from front-to-back, not to mention the gorgeous lighting fixture!