Take it outside: Riverside retreat

Check out this French-inspired outdoor oasis in Oldfield.

Story by Barry Kaufman + Photos by Wayne Moore, Back River Photography

This classic home was recently listed for sale by Catherine Donaldson of Sotheby’s International Realty.  Spanning the stretch of waterfront between the grand screened porch and the expansive guest house, this Oldfield oasis serves as a perfect marriage of the land’s natural beauty and the owner’s love for French architecture. Shaded by the boughs of a dramatic Southern live oak, and enjoying panoramic river scenery that stretches toward golf views, this outdoor masterpiece blends new and old elements into something truly spectacular.

Sculpting Serenity 

The elevated pool, joined by the spillover from the spa, cast a decidedly modern look at the heart of the outdoor spaces, guided into the classicism of French design by a gorgeous garden statue at one end.

Salt air and iron scrolls 

“The railings were so important to me because I wanted them to frame the house elegantly,” said owner Suzanne Hatcher. “I picked out every picket, including the scroll design that mimics the New Orleans fleur-de-lis.”

In deference to the salt air, Hatcher opted for a powdered aluminum that mimics the classic wrought iron, creating a unified sense of Big Easy beauty.

Contrasting charm

The contrast of Savannah brick against painted white bricks on the guest house adds visual interest that carries the overall motif of blending New Orleans charm with Lowcountry sophistication.