\ Highlands \

Earth Inspired

Wood tones and heirloom decor create rustic harmony in Jamie Elliott McPherson’s newest project.

By Katelyn Rutt

Known for its stunning waterfalls, winding rivers, and sweeping vistas, the town of Highlands is perhaps one of North Carolina’s greatest gems. The mountain respite, nestled among the pines, is filled with lush greens, dreamy blues, and warm, nutty tones—a palette that is as timeless as its surroundings. For Jamie Elliott McPherson, owner and principal designer at J. Elliott Style, the mountainous backdrop served as the ultimate muse for his latest design undertaking.

“My favorite element was the view, without a doubt,” McPherson says. “When we first visited the property, I saw a ton of potential for a renovation, but the view took my breath away. It's something that can't be improved upon or replicated.”

With an unwavering commitment to his clients and the authenticity of their homes, McPherson’s design ethos centers around collaboration. His goal is to foster a partnership, providing direction and encouraging new ideas, but always allowing his clients to make the decisions best suited to their unique lifestyles. As for his trademark color scheme? McPherson has a penchant for organic hues.

“I love to imbue the natural surroundings of my projects in their interiors,” McPherson says. “Highlands offers an abundance of natural inspiration, so bringing in blues and greens to complement the warm earth tones was simply second nature.”

As a renovation, this house presented a distinct set of unseen factors—both challenges and opportunities.

“For me, the best part was being able to capture more ceiling height in some rooms all the while being able to make the lower height ceilings feel intentional and comfortable,” McPherson says.

A master of transforming a dwelling into a home, the designer elevated the kitchen’s natural wood beams with gold hardware and copper cookware. White fur stools rest against a swirling marble countertop, and vintage-inspired paintings and blue cabinets usher brightness. 

Sprinkled throughout are one-of-a-kind lighting fixtures, a patterned bed frame, and a display wall of animal heads that pay tribute to the area’s Appalachian roots. The main level opens to grand views and a cozy lounge with a fire pit—perfect for autumnal evenings.

“I believe that successful spaces are all about balance,” McPherson says. “Light and dark, warm and cool, scale and proportion. To help move your personal home into fall, embrace the warm hues of leaves turning color. So bring in a cozy caramel blanket or introduce an acorn-colored leather to display a bowl of pinecones mixed with seasonal pears and apples.”

PHOTOGRAPH CREDITS: https://www.blencoeandco.com