Inside Casa Real: Todd Richesin and Bobby Brown’s Artful Home of Global Treasures and Holiday Charm

Nestled in an idyllic neighborhood in Knoxville, Tennessee, sprawling, lush lawns lead to a cul-de-sac, where gorgeous landscaping frames the pebble driveway to a hidden gem. After rolling into the motor court, the 1969 French Norman-style home comes into view, and visitors are transported to a European villa. Casa Real is the home of Todd Richesin and Bobby Brown—owners of antiques, home decor, and gift store, Bobby Todd. The store grew out of their longtime love of antiques collecting and Richesin’s interior design work. The pair’s stylish aesthetic and charming personalities also shine brilliantly in their home, especially during the holidays.

In the foyer, a sweeping curved staircase is draped in a magnolia garland and climbs toward the soaring ceiling. A welcoming nook offers guests repose as they drink in the beauty of the 16th- to 20th-century oil paintings. “We wanted a place where our art and furniture would look appropriate,” says Richesin. “So it was a total thought: a French house with an English interior where you have French, Chinese, and all sorts of influences, nestled in an Italian garden. It’s kind of a Euro package.”

The abode is a delight to the senses, visually and artistically. Every item has a story, every corner beckons you to get comfy, and each whimsical element invites you to smile. In this home, you can feel the curiosity, playfulness, creativity, sophistication, and joy of the hearts who live within.

In the kitchen, the refrigerator cleverly masquerades as a bookshelf, while an 1880s English pub sign reads, “No Riff Raff.” The Christmastime tablescape is an eclectic mix of high-low style that the couple adores. “You have the glamour of a crystal-studded bow with the casualness of an old antique French linen table runner,” says Richesin. “It’s that mixture of refined and relaxed.”

The adjacent sunroom evokes an Old-World Parisian solarium meeting an 18th-century parlor and is Brown’s favorite room. “I love that emerald green color and the sofa, the dramatic vaulted ceiling with its garden-tent feel,” says Brown. “It just feels like you’re in a treehouse, looking out at the forest canopy.” The wood floors are painted a faux black-and-white marble, and coral walls and leopard-printed draperies complement a chinoiserie theme in the fabrics. Pagoda-style window pediments and a breathtaking 1880s Parisian grand piano also grace the space. “It’s sort of from the school of ‘more is more,’” says Richesin.

Throughout the home, fun and funky oddities intermingle with exquisite antiques and stirring artwork within creative vignettes. The home conjures a childlike sense of wonder and delight, and the duo insists that comfort is king. “It’s very gracious, inviting, and comfortable,” says Brown. “We use it to entertain a lot.” The philanthropic couple often hosts fundraisers, milestone birthdays, Christmas parties, showers, and even a wedding. Richesin and Brown take special care to ensure each of their guests feels the warmth and joy of the holiday season, while they also enjoy the enchanting creativity of Casa Real.