Stroll poolside at the Alison family’s home in downtown Huntsville’s historic Twickenham district, and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a luxurious getaway. Crystal-clear water is framed by impressive stonework and verdant landscaping. Warm neutrals and fresh blues lend a serene ambience, while soft-hued florals and natural accents provide subtle interest without detracting from the surrounding beauty.
The Alabama homeowners decided to build a pool for their four teenagers to enjoy in what was originally an unassuming, small-scale backyard. Once designer Beverly Farrington of Accents of the South joined the project, the space quickly grew into a full-fledged entertaining area for family and friends of all ages. “The Alisons wanted the pool area to be an extension of the home,” says Beverly. “Our goal was to create a comfortable and functional space that remained sophisticated in style and complemented an attractive landscape. We wanted to create the ultimate room with a view.”
The poolside deck, complete with plush lounge chairs and a quaint seating area, gives way to a pavilion on the west end of the yard, equipped with a kitchen flanked by dining and living spaces. Above a spa in the center of the pool, a stunning espaliered vine forms an organic focal point.
Beverly says the whole area exudes a welcoming feeling that is, at its heart, distinctly Southern. “It’s an inviting space that allows the family to entertain and extend their Southern hospitality,” she continues. And for the Alisons, having a place to share laid-back fellowship has been the greatest reward of the project. “We turned a small backyard that we hardly used into a place that we love to look at and love to enjoy,” says homeowner Christy Alison. “It’s a very relaxing space. My husband jokes that it is our vacation home.”
Styling and design by Beverly Farrington Photography by Marcy Simpson
