Idyllic Lake Martin Home Blends Southern Charm with Modern Design

Thoughtfully designed by husband-and-wife architectural team Lynielle and Richard Long of the Birmingham firm Long & Long Design, each structure on the property invites you into a private oasis as you enter the driveway gate. Recognized and admired for their sincere use of natural materials with contrasting elements, the talented duo approaches each design challenge with a well-balanced mixture of subdued elegance, old-world refinement, and forward-thinking modernity. Their use of stone on the exterior of this house carries through to the interior, where it is featured in the living room fireplace surround, lending unmistakable warmth and coziness. Meanwhile, the white oak ceiling and paint-washed walls evoke a sense of natural tranquility. Large glass doors in the living room allow seamless access to a lavish screened porch outfitted with a fireplace and an outdoor kitchen.

“Every space was designed with comfort, durability, and practicality in mind,” says Jessica Prier, owner of Birmingham Design House, who led the interior design direction for the project. “The intention was to invest in the details that matter without overdesigning—no fuss or frills—but rather simple beauty that will stand the test of time. Long & Long recommended me for this project, which proved to be a perfect fit, because I instantly fell in love with the Turners—some of the most kind and generous people you will ever meet.”

With two grown children and six grandchildren, the couple prioritized using materials that would withstand everyday life—suitable for adults and kids alike, leaving no room for family and guests to worry about messing anything up. Durability was key, so they incorporated resilient materials, such as granite and quartzite in the kitchen as well as performance fabrics throughout. “The Turners are very generous hosts, and you feel that the moment you pull onto their property,” notes Prier.

Upon entering the front door of the main house, the natural light beckons you down the hallway from the foyer into the great room and kitchen, boasting incredible lake views. The wide-open spaces create a superb backdrop for entertaining. Sharon, an avid cook, requested a highly functional kitchen with two islands—one to serve as a workspace and another for guests to gather, visit, and taste as food is being prepared. A spacious butler’s pantry provides added storage and prep space, ensuring the central kitchen always appears beautifully organized and clutter-free.

“I love to take full advantage of views and natural light, and I like to start with leaning into the clients’ style, making every home a reflection of their own personal tastes and personalities,” says Prier. “For the Turners, we tended toward a muddy, muted, soothing color palette. Life is already so busy, I feel like every space should be calm and inviting, encouraging you to stay awhile.”

With these design principles in mind, Prier also prefers to add a touch of moodiness to each project with a dark room that generates dramatic contrast. For this home, the dining room is her dark and moody space, surrounded by a box of windows that prevents it from feeling too heavy. At the owners’ request, she collaborated with Rustic Trades in Atlanta, who crafted a stunning live-edge dining table from massive walnut slabs they had discovered. To complement the table, she selected upholstered chairs on casters. “It’s a space that is very important to the Turners, designed with intention and heart,” notes the designer. “The overall feel of comfort and style invites guests—in true Southern fashion—to relax and stay awhile,” Prier says.

Of course, nothing says Southern style more than a breezy screened porch, and this house boasts an impressive one with a chef-worthy outdoor kitchen for all of Sharon’s fantastic cooking. “We spend most of our time in the outdoor spaces as well as the kitchen and family room,” says Sharon. “Our spacious open floor plan is perfect for hosting and entertaining, which we love to do often.”

Adds Prier, “Few things are more rewarding than when your clients tell you how much they enjoy their new home—and the Turners love theirs! These projects take years to complete, so after we finished, they graciously hosted all of us for dinner, including their builders from Dilworth Development. We had so much fun celebrating this huge endeavor we all worked on together—many sweet memories were made.”