Creative collision: designer redefines athens home – textile startup born from the process
A design firm’s unexpected journey transformed a 1960s ranch in Athens, Georgia, into a vibrant, mid-century masterpiece, sparking a new textile venture and a surprisingly enduring friendship. Monica Stewart of The Misfit House and Hollis McFadden, an artist and founder of Sun House Children’s, embarked on a project far beyond a simple renovation, forging a creative partnership that reshaped both their careers.
From floor plans to fabric: a collaborative revelation
What began as a conversation about optimizing floor plans quickly blossomed into a full-blown creative experiment. Stewart recalls, "We’d been discussing starting a textile company for years, and this project finally provided the perfect impetus. We started weaving our designs directly into the home’s fabric, creating a truly integrated aesthetic." The result? Tassel House Textiles, a burgeoning brand launching alongside the revitalized home.
The renovation itself was a significant undertaking – a 2,000-square-foot addition dramatically altered the property’s footprint, seamlessly integrating a private primary suite into the former carport, adding a contemporary kitchen and family room, and converting the original kitchen into a practical mudroom. But the core challenge resided in balancing the home’s mid-century roots with a modern lifestyle. Stewart skillfully navigated the complexities, respecting the original architecture while injecting fresh, contemporary elements.
Key design details
The house now boasts a terrazzo floor, solid walnut cabinetry, and teal paint – a bold palette punctuated by unlacquered brass hardware and custom circular motifs, paying homage to the era’s fascination with the atomic age. Large, circular windows, strategically placed above the sink, invite natural light and contribute to the home’s unique ambiance. The kitchen, relocated to the rear of the property for greater visibility and functionality, is a testament to Stewart’s meticulous approach, incorporating textured wallcoverings, a stylish butler’s pantry stocked with premium amenities, and layered lighting – a deliberate choice to create a dynamic and welcoming space.
“This was our first mid-century project as a design firm,” Stewart explains. “We pushed ourselves creatively to craft a home that’s contemporary yet cozy, brimming with personality, but grounded in traditional elements that will endure for generations. It's a true reflection of the family breathing life into it every day.”
Fast facts
Designer: Monica Stewart, The Misfit House
Location: Athens, Georgia
Space: Five-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom ranch spanning 5,000 square feet
Kitchen Highlights: Textural wallcovering (Phillip Jefferies), HRL Brass cabinet hardware, Rohl sink fixtures, Vintage runner, custom circular windows, layered lighting, wicker and brass accents.
Living Room Features: Mid-century nods through built-ins, checkerboard fireplace tile, Susan Hable artwork, and a strategically arranged circular seating arrangement.
Powder Room Detail: Custom marble hutch with integrated mirror, waterfall edge shelving, and a brass sink – a thoughtful addition designed to address a long-standing household need.
Laundry Room Innovation: Floor-to-ceiling subway tile, lockers for family members, and a dedicated sink for stain removal.
The project underscores a powerful synergy: a design firm’s innovative approach and a personal connection fueled by a shared creative vision. It's more than a remodel; it’s the genesis of a brand and a testament to the enduring power of collaboration.