“The organization wanted us to create a sophisticated, calming, and feminine atmosphere,” Cathy says. “This was a haven where women would come together for fellowship, support, and inspiration. We began with a palette of a cream, taupe, and a sophisticated, muted serene pink—not too bright or too pastel. The sunroom established the color palette and acts as the entry point for the home, welcoming guests.
“We found several pieces at local flea markets and tag sales. With some refinishing, new paint, and reupholstery, we were able to turn others people’s cast-off furnishings into beautiful pieces for the Pink House. Mike and Sabrina Polly of Design Services of Charlotte agreed to donate all of the labor for reupholstery. I had worked with Mike for years, but did not know his wife was also a breast cancer survivor.”
“Albert Hadley said, ‘Decorating is not about making stage sets… It’s really about creating a quality of life, a beauty that nourishes the soul.’ We wanted the survivors that entered this space to feel like their spirits had been lifted and their souls nourished,” Cathy explains. “The curved lines of the mirror, camelback sofa, and scalloped valances add to the feminine atmosphere. Silk velvet, grosgrain ribbon trim, mitered pillows, silk shades, and fresh flowers show the importance of nurturing details and textures in the interior.
“Sharon Coppede of Custom Window Treatments, Inc., is a breast cancer survivor herself. She agreed to donate all of the labor, lining, and inner lining for the window treatments in the house. The ladies that work in her design studio donated their time to make the beautiful drapery in the image above. Sharon joined Carolina Breast Friends and has started mentoring ladies who have recently been diagnosed.”
“We approached Kate Long Stevenson to see if she would be willing to do a painting in memory of a friend she had lost to breast cancer,” Cathy says. “Kate created the most beautiful abstract work. The painting resides above the mantel that is now the focal point of the living room where Carolina Breast Friends holds their monthly meetings.”
The painting’s dedication reads: “In memory of my extraordinary friend, Neil Maddux Miller. May her vibrancy, grace, and incredible resilience continue to inspire us all.”
