Belle Maison: The Jackson Family
With its sloping roofline and use of ridge tiles, Hardie plank, brick and stucco, the Jackson home in Abita Springs is like something out of a picture book—a touch of European design set alongside Goodyear Pond and overlooking the second green at Money Hill. Built in 2018 by Troyer Builders and designed by architect Andy McDonald, the 2578 square-foot “eclectic traditional/French modern” home comprises three bedrooms and two and a half baths on a single level, with a half level of height that makes the house feel much larger than it actually is. Outside, the home is surrounded by a beautifully manicured property that shows off the talents of landscape architect Marian Severson of Land Matters.
It’s no wonder, with the pond and the landscape surrounding them that the Jacksons love the views looking out their many windows—windows that spill incredible natural light into a striking interior. “When we sat down with Andy, we told him we wanted to feel like we lived in nature,” says Robin, who shares the home with her husband Steve and their two pets, a dog named Atlas and a cat named Zoe. “He designed our home to allow the perception of being one with nature. We needed the peacefulness, calmness, the sounds of nature for our wellbeing, so the design of the home is perfect for us.”
Professionally designed by Greg Troyer, the interior aesthetic, like that of the exterior, is a mixture of classic elements and varied textures that create a visual softness and refined simplicity within each space. The open floor plan is one that flows seamlessly from one room into the next, with a color story that is cohesive and harmonious, a monochromatic use of whites and creams that add to the calmness of the atmosphere.
In the living room, a cathedral ceiling makes the space feel incredibly open, with banks of windows on two walls that bring in light and create the sense of being outdoors. The flooring, a wide plank white oak grounds the room and runs from one space into the next, organically joining the interior.
Perfect for entertaining friends and their large family of children and grandchildren, the kitchen boasts a Thermador suite of stainless-steel appliances including a 48” gas range with six burners, griddle and steam oven. Double hung custom oak cabinetry from Maras and Sons extends to the ceiling, with a center island that adds prep space and seating. Crowning the lower cabinetry and island, White Rhino marble counters bring in one more element of white into the monochromatic design. Adding elegance to the space, three Currey & Company Charisma Black lanterns are suspended over the island.
