Located on the rural outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, Serenbe is a picturesque community comprising four hamlets that focus on arts, agriculture, health, and education. Designed to be a center for quiet living for creatives and their families, the newest development, Mado, wants to focus on bringing the outdoors in, but in a modern setting. This is exactly the vibe that Iowa– and Serenbe–based designer Rebecca Cartwright achieved with The Naturally House, a tree house-inspired haven.

The wood exterior integrates with the surrounding forest while the steel swing exemplifies modern, child-friendly living. “The swing was the jumping off point for bringing steel elements throughout,” explains Cartwright. Black and white hues lend a polished look, and plants lend life and freshness.

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The four-bedroom, five-bath home showcases ample texture and playful touches in its 3,200 square feet, such as a hidden pantry that conceals the microwave and toaster. Teal accents and swallow-printed wallpaper keep the home from looking too monotonous, and natural light envelops the three-story abode. Textiles, wood, marble, and an infinite collection of artwork lend to the cozy feel.

Upstairs, sweeping views of the forest take center stage in the areas between the two bedrooms, so the decor was kept relatively simple. The outside porch area uses pale colors to let the expansive views take over, while the middle hallway acts as a mudroom that ties into the downstairs area with the same colors used for the kitchen.

By using a combination of textures and artwork, black and white with pops of color, and modern elements like metal and glass, Cartwright has managed to create a rustic, nature-oriented family home that still boasts a modern edge, making it ideal for families and young couples alike.

Project Credits:

Architect of Record: Serenbe Planning and Design / @serenbe

General Contractor: Lucas Barry

Landscape Design Company: Serenbe Landscape Design

Lighting Design Company/Interior Design Company: R. Cartwright Design

Cabinetry Design: Cabinet Craft

Custom Steel Furnishings: Gault Designs