Nashville designer transforms houston brick house with a touch of timeless elegance
Minnette Jackson traded Nashville charm for a Houston brick beauty, and the result is a stunningly fresh and livable home that seamlessly blends vintage with modern design.
A second chance at style
The designer, known for her ability to breathe new life into older properties, tackled the 1935 house with a bold vision: a classic aesthetic grounded in everyday elegance, even with a family in tow. Forget sterile minimalism; Jackson opted for a layered approach, mixing antique treasures with contemporary furnishings to create a space that feels both familiar and utterly captivating.
“My goal is always to create something classic, fresh, and livable but still have an air of everyday elegance, even with kiddos running around,” Jackson explained. It’s a surprisingly demanding brief, and the transformation is a testament to her skill.
From dreary to delightful: the key upgrades
The initial work—new windows and a partial foundation repair—was merely the groundwork for a complete overhaul. The most dramatic changes centered on the kitchen and the entire interior painting scheme. The existing layout and cabinetry were thoughtfully preserved, while countertops, backsplash, hardware, lighting, and nearly all the paint were replaced to flood the space with light and create a sense of airy spaciousness. “It was a bit dark, with a strange mix of colors,” Jackson noted, “Ceramic lighting, cream paint, and warm nickel finishes now make it feel inviting.”
Within the living room, Jackson honored the home’s history by meticulously recreating the original arches, a subtle nod to the property’s Tudor roots. The powder room received a dazzling makeover with Sandberg wallpaper—a playful blue-and-white pattern echoing the neighborhood’s abundant oak trees. “I almost panicked, but then looked closely at the bucket and realized the store had mixed the color wrong. Thank goodness he had only just begun painting, and it was an easy fix!” Jackson recounted, demonstrating her pragmatic approach to design.
A story in every piece
Throughout the 3,200-square-foot residence, Jackson masterfully juxtaposed antiques and contemporary pieces, each with its own unique narrative. “I do love objects with a story,” she shared, “incorporating several pieces that were in my family or my husband’s family, as well as pieces we found together while traveling.” The result is a thoughtfully curated collection that feels deeply personal and undeniably chic.
Unexpected spaces, lasting impact
Despite primarily focusing on cosmetic improvements, Jackson insists the house now feels significantly larger. “There was a moment right after the painter started painting the exterior where I wasn’t sure about the color,” she said, referring to the Ballet White Benjamin Moore shade. “But it was a lucky fix!” The strategic use of color—coats of baby blue, crisp white, and soft cream—enhances the home’s inherent charm, creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who enters. And, perhaps most importantly, it’s a space where memories are made, laughter echoes, and life unfolds effortlessly. A truly successful reinvention.