Creekside classic: anchored on the banks of Leland's Deer Creek stands a stately example of early 20th-century architecture.

This Federal-style brick house was originally built as a Queen Anne wood-frame structure in 1905, the home to Mr. II. Goepel, manager and treasurer of the neighboring Leland Oil Mill. Goepel and his family remained in their beloved home for years before relocating to Port Gibson. The original architecture and millwork remained as the house was clad with traditional dark red brick decades later. Graced with six arched French casement windows, the balanced facade with white trim and keystones features neoclassical white columns supporting a portico with black iron railing above.

Several families have owned the home over the last century, but the current owner has refurbished the home into the masterpiece it is today. Real estate broker John Dean purchased the home in 1981. His brother Robert, a Florida-based interior designer, devised a plan to completely overhaul the interiors and incorporate period-accurate furnishings and decor that would make the space timeless.

"Architecturally, this home has always been a beauty. The house could hold its own in Savannah, Charleston, Philadelphia, or Boston. Its proportions, fenestration, and balanced interior floor plan with large public rooms separated by a central hall are classic and hard to fault by any generational critic," states Robert. He developed spaces that are beautifully appointed with incredibly fine furnishings, textiles, papers, and accessories. Describing the style as "a refined Southern look but with eclectic Euro-Anglo appeal to elegance and comfort," Robert used warm colors and lovely fabrics mixed with traditional 18'h-century and contemporary furnishings to enhance the overall architecture.

The ivy-enveloped home and lush gardens offered the ideal setting for the wedding reception of John and his wife Marion in 2011. When Marion relocated from Tybee Island, the two began to tackle the process of merging furnishings in order to create a collective home. With Robert's help, the couple freshened up the look without affecting the established Federal style. "Robert is extremely knowledgeable, especially regarding style. He has impeccable taste and has worked on the house since the beginning. He is attentive to making certain all the detail work is done properly and coordinates everything," admires Marion. The result of Robert's work is a spectacular example of design with personal touches scattered throughout the spaces.

New lighting, fabrics, wall coverings, and carpets were chosen for specific areas, although the intricate original wallpapers by Brunschwig, Kneedler-Fauchere, and Rose Cumming hung decades ago are all in good condition and remain as visual jewels throughout the spaces. "I worked around my original color scheme from 1981 trying to make rooms different with new upholstery ideas in the living room, hall, library, and den, while pushing things around to new locations," notes Robert. "All of the inherited pieces of furniture and accessories from both sides of the marriage were on the 'keeper' list. Marion has lovely pieces from Georgia, and John has also inherited many pieces from Mother's, Grandmother's, and Great-Granny's home."

With John and Marion's shared love of the traditional style and antiques, the merging of furnishings was seamless in their shared setting. Robert worked his and John's mother's and grandmother's furnishings into the hall, dining, and living room, while Marion's English Welsh dresser, supper table, and chairs fit perfectly into the den. New granite counters for the bookcase in the den provide a connection to the adjacent kitchen. Drapery in the library was enhanced with English bullion fringe and invisible pull cords. Height was added to the armless chairs, and Robert had the upholsterer apply tall box-pleated skirts with silk bias tape borders to match the welting. "The armless chairs were actually from our grandmother's home from the mid 1950s. Now they look entirely different," notes Robert.

The rooms themselves are more than ample in size and flow well both visually and functionally. Robert notes, "It is very hard to find a new home like this unless one builds it while paying a fortune for the classic details. Old homes have their problems, but they also have a multitude of joys." The couple's favorite spaces vary, but the front rooms are most loved for the wonderful morning light. "It is always cheery and bright, with views of Deer Creek and across to the beautiful Thompson House," notes Marion. Marion also prefers to relax in the kitchen, where she creates meals under her collection of glimmering antique copper pots. The crown jewel of the kitchen is the hand-screened wallpaper on the ceiling. Reminiscent of Portuguese tile, the paper adds color and interest to the space. Wall-to-wall cabinets combined with tongue-and-groove paneling provide a light impression. Robert notes, "We all wanted to keep the country kitchen effect, and the paper lends a European feeling."

The couple enjoys entertaining in this home. "The front section of the house is ideal for cocktail buffets. The grand piano in the living room is used for live music, and the dining room can be serviced directly from the butler's pantry and kitchen," says Marion. For even larger events, a tent is added off the back door to the rear yard. Whether for a Delta gala or a simple dinner party, the home is a perfect setting.

Overtime, this home has evolved as the designer and clients added small touches between renovations or redecorations. Curating the home has created a collected and layered look that only time and attention can give to space. "I think that is why I have always loved the great homes in England and France. They have been layered over many hundreds of years. They will always be beautiful and comfortable without fads," notes Robert. So, too, does the Deans' home stand proudly as a shining example of classic style. M

The grand brick structure clad in ivy is a perfect model of classic Federal style. This home is a favorite sight for those touring the beautiful banks of Leland's Deer Creek.

The dining room features documentary, hand-screened wall covering from Brunschwig & Fils that Robert Dean installed over 30 years ago for his brother. The paper creates a luxurious feel that sets the tone for lovely meals and sparkling conversations. The chairs, dining table, breakfront, and rug were passed down to John from his mother.

by mary neff stewart | photography by ron blaylock

Article Details

Printer friendly Cite/link Email Feedback
Author:	Stewart, Mary Neff
Publication:	Mississippi Magazine
Date:	Mar 1, 2014
Words:	1031
Previous Article:	Garoline herring.
Next Article:	The secret life of Mississippi's beef.
Topics:	Banks (Finance)