Written by Allyson Duckworth

Photos by  Bruce Newman 

Nestled among a grove of trees atop a hill on Park Drive in Oxford, Mississippi, stands a hidden gem of architectural and design excellence. Constructed in 2016 by Lloyd and Missy Hewitt, with the artistic touch of architect Tim Taylor from Jackson, MS, this home has been transformed into a serene oasis by its current owners, Clarence and Jane Chapman.

The journey begins with the exterior, where the house seamlessly stands out amongst its natural surroundings. The architecture, characterized by clean lines and expansive windows, invites the outdoors in, creating a harmonious connection between the interior and the lush greenery outside. It's a design philosophy that emphasizes fluidity and tranquility, setting the tone for what lies within.  Clarence and Jane had lived in the convenience of downtown Oxford but both were seeking more green space and trees.  

Stepping through the front door reveals a meticulously curated interior that balances modern luxury with timeless charm. Clarence and Jane's vision for their home was clear: they wanted a space that not only reflected their personalities but also celebrated the beauty of nature that surrounds them.

One of the most striking features of the home is its back porch, a sanctuary where the boundary between indoors and outdoors dissolves. Almost every room spills onto this outdoor space, creating a seamless transition that amplifies the feeling of being enveloped in a peaceful forest. Here, homeowner Jane Thomas Chapman has orchestrated a symphony of design elements that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. The furniture, not limited to outdoor pieces, brings the comfort of the indoors outside, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation.  She has created an outdoor retreat with indoor elegance.

The interior design narrative unfolds with a delicate balance of old and new. Jane's keen eye for detail is evident in every corner, part of the charm when purchasing the home was the details of the reclaimed white and red Oak floors that echo the natural surroundings to the Cypress wood interior doors that add warmth and character to the space. Jane’s blend of antiques with modern elements creates a curated aesthetic that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Color plays a pivotal role in defining different areas of the home.  Upon acquiring their home, Clarence and Jane found its predominantly white palette charming yet in need of a vibrant touch. Enter Sarah Smythe from Lainappe Interiors of Oxford, a visionary in blending colors and textures. Collaborating on the Study/Sitting room adjacent to their Master Suite, Sarah introduced Benjamin Moore's Jamestown Blue in a high gloss finish—a subtle yet daring departure from the monochrome. Complementing this choice, Sarah meticulously curated monochromatic drapes with a complimenting tape, enhancing the room's cohesion and elegance. Her adept blend of hues and materials breathed new life into the space, transforming it into a captivating retreat.  The monochromatic drapes streamline the room, accentuating the cypress doors and highlighting a stunning Salvador Dali print, which serves as a captivating focal point. Jane infused pizazz into two more spaces: the wet bar, adorned with an array of family photos, and the powder room. Both areas feature vibrant wallpaper, injecting a burst of color that beautifully contrasts with the serene white walls.

Carefully curated artwork graces every wall, infusing the home with personality and visual intrigue. Among these treasures, a standout is the Marie Hull painting adorning the family room's fireplace. This piece not only celebrates Mississippi's rich artistic heritage but also injects vibrant colors into the room, transforming what was once a neutral space into a captivating showcase of artistry. All of Jane’s artwork tells a story, contributing to the overall narrative of the home as a space that celebrates art, history, and culture.

Like most homes the heart of the home lies in the kitchen. The interplay of cream cabinets with glass fronts not only creates a visual feast but also allows for treasured items to be displayed like works of art. Subtle hints of the Cypress wood within the cabinets add a touch of natural elegance to the space, enhancing its overall charm and appeal. The open floor plan is a perfect flow into dining, living, and outdoor aesthetic.  During the lockdown, Jane took the opportunity to make subtle yet impactful changes to the home. Updating every light fixture throughout the house added a touch of modernity and sophistication, enhancing the overall ambiance. These thoughtful updates reflect Clarence and Jane's commitment to creating a space that evolves with their lifestyle while retaining its timeless appeal.

The upstairs guest suites, including a separate Mother-in-law suite with a self-contained Den, kitchen and bedroom, offer private retreats for family and friends. Each room is thoughtfully designed, blending comfort with elegance, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and pampered with total privacy.  

In essence, this home on Park Drive is not just a physical space but a reflection of Clarence and Jane's journey, values, and passions. It's a testament to the power of design to transform a house into a home, a place where every corner tells a story and every detail evokes a sense of beauty and serenity. 

As a designer, it's a delight to collaborate with clients, like Jane, who possess an exceptional eye and a strong sense of design. Acting as more of an editor and guide to a homeowner is particularly special, resulting in completed projects that authentically reflect the individual's distinctive style. Jane Thomas Chapman's home stands as a testament to her innate design talent, showcasing a style curated by Jane herself. The execution is exquisite, making it a true joy to behold and a testament to her exceptional eye for design.

As we wander through the rooms, admiring the interplay of light and shadow, the textures and colors, we are reminded of the magic that happens when design and nature coalesce. It's a reminder that amidst the chaos of the world, there are spaces like this, where time stands still, and every moment is a celebration of life's simple joys.

In conclusion, the home on Park Drive is more than just a grove in the woods retreat; it's a testament to the transformative power of design and the enduring beauty of nature. It's a space where dreams are nurtured, memories are made, and lives are lived to the fullest.

See the full June/July 2024 issue of Oxford Magazine here.