Colonial architecture seems to be one style that never goes out of style, particularly in the South. Not only was it good enough for George Washington, it still plays well today. The style did fall out of favor during the late 19th century, when the exoticism of Victoriana reigned, but since America’s centennial in 1876, the Colonial style has remained popular.
Greentrees is a beautifully wooded residential area just south of Poplar Pike at Kirby Parkway. It’s well located for work or shopping and quite close to Memphis University School and Hutchison. The neighborhood is a mix of traditional styles, along with some very contemporary houses, and has an active neighborhood association.
This house is a variation on the Greek Revival style, typical of large plantations in the Colonial period in the deep South. These houses often had tall, two-story porches, built with galleries on each level to ensure ventilation and convenient circulation for rooms on either floor. Fortunately, from an energy conservation standpoint, this house does face south, so that the double galleries actually shade the front windows from heat in the summer months.
The front entry is slate floored, so you’ll never worry about what guests might track in. To one side is a sizable dining room, and the other side is a home office or nursery. The most used public spaces — the kitchen, breakfast, and family rooms — are arranged just behind and look out to the rear yard.
The kitchen was gutted, and new slate floors installed there and in the breakfast room. The kitchen cabinetry is a honey-toned cherry that is set off well against matte-black counters. It’s a combination that’s both striking and carefree. There’s a step down to the nine-foot-tall family room, which has a wood floor and is paneled. Old brick is used to good effect on the raised hearth and the fireplace surround.
The master suite is at one end with its own fireplace and room enough for a seating area. Its large bath has two nicely outfitted walk-ins and a ceramic tile floor that looks like limestone. The other end of the downstairs houses a pantry, a powder room, and a two-car garage with workshop.
Upstairs there are three bedrooms and two baths. A new, second master suite was created over the garage, and it’s even larger than the one on the ground floor. There’s also a spacious playroom upstairs that is well zoned for media activities, as well as more active pursuits, like a game of pool. There’s a wet bar and refrigerator, should you need to wet your whistle.
Out back there is an in-ground swimming pool with a gazebo overlooking one end. The rear yard is surrounded by a board fence and enclosed by tall trees. A grand willow oak out front casts the front galleries in deep shade, so all that’s missing from this Southern Colonial is a mint julep.
6564 Black Thorne Cove
Approximately 3,800 square feet
4 bedrooms, 3-1/2 baths; $449,000
Realtor: Marx & Bensdorf 682-1868
Agent: Sheldon Rosengarten
