November 1, 2024
Betsy Brown Finds Enchantment in Alabama’s Magic City

Birmingham, Alabama has often been referred to as the “Magic City” due to its rapid growth and industrial development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The burgeoning metropolis became a major industrial center, particularly known for its metal production, epitomized by Sloss Furnace – a historic iron-producing blast furnace that operated from 1882 to 1971 and is now a National Historic Landmark. Drawing inspiration from Birmingham’s historical role as a steel production hub, designer Betsy Brown seamlessly fused elements reminiscent of the Sloss Furnace’s rust hue and robust industrial materials into this home’s aesthetic, creating magic of her own within the historic Redmont neighborhood residence.

A bright living room with high ceilings, large windows, minimalist furniture, and a round light fixture

The structure underwent a major renovation to accommodate an extensive photography and art collection, as well as vintage furniture. The redesign began with the main level, where a spacious living hall features a dual-purpose center table and a cozy seating area around a fireplace. The terrace offers sweeping views of Birmingham’s cityscape, while the main level includes a kitchen, sitting area, and primary suite with a study. “I wanted the house to be a joy for its collector-owner, with spaces he could continue to fill as his collections grow,” Betsy Brown says.

A cozy breakfast nook with a round table, built-in seating, and large windows

The home’s design thoughtfully incorporates elements inspired by the Sloss Furnace, with lush green surroundings blending the interior with the scenic outdoor backdrop. Brown recalled the design process beginning with the discovery of a time-worn Persian rug, which set the tone for the home’s palette. Cypress floors and pecky cypress paneling established a clear guideline for the wood colors used throughout the house.

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, marble countertops, and a large indoor plant

A dining area with a round table, built-in seating, and large windows

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a central island, and a large plant

Finding the perfect stain for the cypress floors proved to be a challenging yet rewarding process, involving weeks of testing and fine-tuning to achieve the desired look. The floors now beautifully complement the home’s vintage mid-century furniture. And the entire renovation, from concept to installation, was completed in just one year.

A room with a fireplace, white armchairs, a wooden coffee table, and a Japanese-style artwork

A cozy living area with a dark green armchair, wooden cabinet, and a large artwork on the wall

A home office with wooden paneling, modern furniture, and framed artwork

A hallway leading to a bedroom, featuring a dresser with a floral arrangement and large windows

A cozy bedroom with a warm color palette, featuring a large bed, French doors, and a comfortable chaise lounge

A close-up of a bedside table with a black lamp and floral arrangement, next to a bed with a brown headboard

A bathroom featuring a freestanding tub, large windows, and wooden cabinetry

A small, elegant bathroom with a marble sink, gold fixtures, and a stylish mirror.

To see this and other projects from the designer. visit betsybrowninc.net.

Photography by Haris Kenjar.

Leo Lei translates his passion for minimalism into his daily-updated blog Leibal. In addition, you can find uniquely designed minimalist objects and furniture at the Leibal Store.

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