Sylvia Berger infused the living room with comfort, style and conversation areas built around the cast stone fireplace.


The first floor study has a distinctly masculine appeal, with leather furniture and deep, rich textures and colors.
The open kitchen features an oversized antique table overlooking the property on two sides.

Berger also staged central areas for both formal and informal gatherings, designed to seat at least as many people as the eight-person dining table. The living room and dining room have a distinct country French ambiance, with furnishings that seem inviting and accessible.

“I did not want furnishings that give off a ‘don’t touch me’ feeling,” Berger said.
Mission accomplished.

Just outside the living room is an airy keeping room, featuring another fireplace and comfortable seating for those who want close access to the airy open kitchen, complete with island and antique table that seats up to 12 guests. From the kitchen, guests have panoramic views of the entire rear and side of the property. Designs for these rooms were provided by Susan Brechtel, owner of The French House, a French Country Boutique.

The master bedroom, designed by Kathleen Rhea of House of Rhea, reflects Rhea’s European Training. “I wanted to create a very old world look that suggested simple elegance.” she said. “It is a combination of European flavor and simplicity. It was important to me to use the work of local craftspeople who could contribute to the West Indies and Mediterranean style of the house.”

Rhea also designed the master bath, which includes a comfortable, oversized tub and large-scale windows overlooking the grounds.

Imaginative touches abound throughout the bright, airy structure, such as the built-in bunk beds in a girls’ bedroom and the vaulted ceiling in the guest room. Copper surfaces were used in exterior gathering areas and granite and marble were used artfully throughout the interior.

Others who contributed their artistry to the house include Two Peas in a Pod, Connie Seitz Interior and Antiques, EMB Interiors and Grandiflora.

The Northshore Designer Showhouse IV is open March 29 through April 8. General admission tickets are $10.

Tickets can be purchased at Ballin’s Ltd., Chartres Collection, Fabrixx and the
Sanctuary in the New Orleans area. Tickets are also available at Imelda’s fine Shoes in Baton Rouge and Etc. Etc. in Bay St. Louis, Miss.

Proceeds from the Designer Showhouse IV will benefit the Junior League of
Covington’s community partners.
Call 800-674-8696.