MBDG: Insights

The Briar Chapel Townhouse Model is set apart from other model homes by the use of real furnishings and accessories instead of props. When we were approached by Al McNeill, his vision was to create an authentic home, not a pretend, fantasy interior. Throughout the process we evaluated all of our decisions by this vision. We made the same practical selections that we would if someone where to live there. For example, when selecting artwork, we mixed in original pieces by local artists, as we often do when working with clients who may have reproductions or prints existing. They can co-exist!

Briar Chapel is dedicated to ‘green building solutions’. One of the ways that Mr. McNeill approaches green building is by making a quality home that will endure. We wanted to reflect that approach in the interior. We mixed new furnishings with quality previously owned pieces. We looked for furnishings that had good structure, but, needed refurbishment and/or updating. The night table in the brown bedroom was once such find. It was an old mahogany table with traditional hardware, which had seen better days. We stripped it and painted it and added new pulls to give it a fresh look. We also reupholstered some great pieces and used a slipcover on the sofa to give it a new look.

Another green idea is to use local sources. The model home features work by many fine artists, craftsmen and seamstresses located in the Triangle area. The table in the art studio is made of an old door, with a new base and a piece of glass on top. The canisters in the kitchen are works by Mark Hewitt and the vase on the coffee table is by Joseph Sand. The painting over the fireplace is by Marvin Saltzman. Many of the duvet covers, shams, pillows and dustskirts are beautifully hand sewn.
This is a very special model house!