Page 10 - Demo

8 BRANDYWINE VALLEY HOMEI%u2019ve called the Brandywine Valley home for 25 years, living happily in a house built from Avondale stone in Alapocas, a leafy community north of Wilmington. In this beautiful place, we find inspiration in the rolling hills, sparkling streams, lush meadows and rock formations that date back 570 million years. That exceptional topography is reflected in the four custom homes featured in this issue%u2014each designed to accommodate the comforts and the creativity of their owners.A serene swath of Chateau Country is the backdrop for a home steeped in tradition, from its cedar shake roof to its stone foundation. The work of builder Scott Porter, its open floor plan maximizes the views of the surrounding countryside. Just outside Wilmington, B&D Builders impressively executed plans for an upscale barn that combines English-style horse stalls with an upscale entertaining space for their owners. In Chester County, an artist%u2019s home exudes a welcoming European elegance thanks to Period Architecture, and a unique residential design by Archer & Buchanan Architecture integrates an original 1845 springhouse.Also in this issue, you%u2019ll find sage advice from four of the region%u2019s most gifted designers. Inci Porter is always happy to illuminate clients on the awesome power of lighting; Sean Lewis pays tribute to the Art Deco roots of a West Chester home with a unique new bathroom; and Kate Pechinka proves that neutral needn%u2019t be boring. If you plan on investing in a new sofa, now is the time to get some advice on custom upholstery from Lisa Quale%u2014and be sure to check out the build-yourown version from Wilmington%u2019s Pala Bros. in our Shop feature.Thinking about wallpaper? We%u2019ve got you covered. We also have a few ideas for making a great first impression with your front door. And for some fall inspiration for your outdoor spaces, look no further than the Janiczek Homes project that features a two-story porch with a pergola and a veranda ideal for entertaining. With love, from my home to yours, JIM GRAHAMFROM THE EDITORWELCOME BACK TO BRANDYWINE VALLEY HOMEEileen Smith DallabridaEditorPS: Here I am at Oberod, once a grand du Pont estate and now home to a conference center. The man behind the camera is Jim Graham, directing the latest of many joyful collaborations we%u2019ve shared.