Jenny Thomas of Atlanta-based J. Thomas Designs knew at age five that she would be a designer when, together with her parents, hand built a 3-story dollhouse with electricity, velvet carpet, hardwood floors and furnishings. She grew up on Kentucky Lake where her parents owned a restaurant and gift shop called the Brass Lantern, so she'd spend time going to America’s Mart with them to source accessories and home décor for their shop. Her family flipped lake houses that taught her about construction, renovation, and material selection. Jenny adds, "I’ve been a designer for nearly 20 years, having projects that ranged from one room to full design of multi-million dollar residences."
"In the end, we took a dated house and transformed it into a comfortable yet eclectic space."
Tell us a little bit about the eclectic and colorful design of this Fieldstone Farms home.
I am so lucky to call this homeowner a dear friend. We met in Atlanta and soon thereafter lived a block apart. She is a very creative soul who loves interesting decor. We did so many projects together that we were comfortable working on the Fieldstone Farms house after she moved to Franklin. They came from a neighborhood that was older and had lots of charm. We knew that together we could ‘fix up’ this house and make it more interesting and perfect for their lifestyle.
We transformed the exterior by cutting overgrown bushes, changing 1990s details like keystones by making them look like limestone lintels, wrapping the columns with wood, adding new lights, and painting the exterior. Inside the stair rail was replaced, and we updated lighting, paint, and wallpaper throughout. The owner is an art history major and has a great collection of original art, so we focused design around her exceptional pieces. We mixed in vintage accessories and furniture and used bold draperies.
A big interior change we made was to remove a rarely used back stairwell. This created more upstairs storage and a big footprint on the main floor to build in a desk/study/craft area. Most recently we added a screened porch and deck creating a wonderful area to sit and relax or play a game of ping pong; and a place to showcase the owner's Boxy Gardener planters – a boutique planter gardening service she runs.
Did you ever have to dissuade or talk your client out of something?
The client is such a fun collaborator that I have not had to talk her out of anything. In fact, she is always willing to take a risk. ‘Hey, we really need a lime green chair’ - ‘Let’s do it!’ ‘Wallpapering the dining room ceiling?’ ‘Yes, let’s do it!’ I wish all my clients were more willing to believe in the process and take a risk – the results are often exciting and well-loved.
What’s your favorite room/part of this house?
Because we transformed so many interesting spaces in this house, it’s hard to pick only one favorite. It is so layered and personal with cozy spots in every room. I do really love the dining room ceiling, the study area that used to be a stairwell, and the foyer that is filled with great vintage finds.