One of the six homes on this year’s tour is that of Mr. and Mrs. D. Wayne Ashby Jr. in the Country Club of North Carolina.
A massive reclamation project turned a small ’70s house into a New England shingled cottage surrounded by two acres of garden sanctuary. Mrs. Ashby is a master gardener and agrees with the theory that a house should engage with its setting to create a harmonious whole.
The design interaction between house and garden began taking root as courtyards were constructed. Flowering borders reinforced by bricks develop a sinuous shape. Stepping stones edged in grass created pathways that meander through gates to the herb garden, the gazebo area, and rose rooms bordered by clipped boxwoods.
New walkways lead to the front entrance, bordered by perennial flowers, interesting foliage, and inviting garden sculpture. Note that throughout the gardens, unusual plants and trees are labeled. Birdhouses are carefully placed throughout the gardens for the simple pleasure of viewing their activities from the house. The charming house has an added garage topped by a distinctive dovecote. A wing of bedrooms and a study was added at the far end of the house.
As you enter the home the large, delightful living room with its high ceilings and soft colors creates a welcoming atmosphere. Columns are used to define spaces, and every room has a splendid view of the gardens. The kitchen and the garden room are the heart of this active home.
A fireplace nook for casual dining or quiet reading warms this cheery area. The garden room is used for planting and arranging flowers. Outside, just beyond the garden room you may view the “Herb Garage.” A bluebird house stands sentry in the garden, and from the brick patio, sweeping vistas of the perennial gardens can be seen. A thousand bulbs will share their glory this spring. Visitors are invited to follow the garden paths around the property. Hostesses will be on hand to give directions.
Other homes on this year’s tour include those of Mr. and Mrs. Gary Gough, Mr. and Mrs. Farrell W. Bushing Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Larry Best, Dr. and Mrs. Mack McClain and Mr. and Mrs. Peter V. Tufts.
Proceeds from the tour benefit beautification and special restoration projects.
Tickets are $15 in advance and may be ordered by sending a check to Southern Pines Garden Club, c/o Fredanel Woronoff, 210 Valley Rd., Southern Pines, NC 28387.
For information, call Ann Krahnert at 695-0235.
