In the fall of 2015, we came for a Blueridge foothills getaway in hopes of finding just the right location, a place to call home and one that would become Stuart Hill Bed and Breakfast. I remember the day vividly, more than a decade ago now, when we first noticed an old for sale sign on the side of a country road. Barely visible on an overgrown parcel of land and hidden amongst the creeping vines and thornbushes was a deserted house set high up on a gentle sloping hill. Even though the property looked desolate, we were drawn to its history and decided to take a look. As we followed the winding circular drive, the house came fully into view, and although it showed signs of neglect, it was perfect! It was graced by two magnificent Southern Magnolias on either side and the expansive wraparound porch seemed like a good place to start. Captivated by the quiet elegance of the house, it seemed to sleep in silence. Gathering the courage to peer through the shuttered windows, it was obvious it had not been lived in for quite some time; however, between the cobwebs, peeling wallpaper and faded paint, the house had a distinct, warm personality. This old home was like a gentile Southern Lady-in-waiting, patiently waiting for love to return.
This old home was like a gentile Southern Lady-in-waiting, patiently waiting for love to return.
Having toured other places in the area, none had spoken to us until now. I became a little emotional as I said, “This is the one!” It had potential. Looking a little closer, we knew that it was a historic Colonial Revival Farmhouse that had “good bones”, soundly constructed with century-old rough-cut timber and antique red clay bricks. We knew that renovating it and reclaiming the property to its original purpose and grandeur was going to be a labor of love…and that for us, would become the adventure of a lifetime!
From the late 19th century and into the early 20th century across America, the Colonial Revival style of Architecture became popular for many structures, but especially the Country Farmhouse. People felt drawn to the simplicity and symmetry of the original American Colonial style architecture; however, the revival of this style required some additional features that would make it more beautiful, practical and functional, while keeping the character of houses constructed during colonial times. Colonial Revival Architecture in Virginia’s Countryside also came to Henry County, when during a period of economic growth in the tobacco, textiles and lumber industries, better housing was needed to support the thriving economy.
Having made the decision to take the next step in our adventure and purchase this property near Martinsville, Virginia, we decided to do some research on its century-old design so that our restorations would be authentic. We found that one of the key features of the Colonial Revival style was beautiful symmetry, and this house certainly possessed that eye-pleasing appeal of balance and harmony. The house was rectangular in shape with a simple but formal exterior where the front entrance located in the center was the focal point. The wraparound porch protected the entrance and front of the house, shielding it from the weather and providing the perfect place to sit and enjoy the lovely country view. Shuttered, multi-pane windows were evenly spaced on the first floor and were perfectly mirrored on the second floor. Dormers with windows also graced the roofline along with a multitude of fireplace chimneys. All was in balance, pleasing to the eye – simple, yet elegant.
As we gazed upon this magnificent structure, we knew that no matter what, this house was worth saving. This Grand Old Lady was calling out to be lived in once again and to be rejuvenated, to enjoy gatherings and families, parties and weddings and visitors admiring her spacious rooms and beautiful woodwork. She called out to us, not-be-forgotten or to be some relic from a time gone by, but to be alive once again – living history – inviting everyone to come for an unforgettable experience, all with her very own touch of quaint southern charm!
