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Living by the Water

For most of us over this past year home has become our haven, a safe harbor in a world that suddenly felt unsafe, a place where we retreated and revived, and thankfully found peace and comfort. We can find safety, joy and sanctuary in how our spaces interplay with nature, as in the majesty and stillness of mountains or the calm of a lake’s still waters.  

We are grateful to have been involved in several client projects that have created meaningful, joyful and calming homes by the water.

The aspect of how the water met the horizon brought the greatest sense of peace and inspiration for this project. When my clients discussed how they wanted the interiors to function and feel, their clear goal was to achieve a family home that would feel like a sanctuary, retreat and safe harbor of love for their extended family. – John Ishmael  

Living by the Water Design by John Ishmael of Nandina Home and Design Atlanta

Design by John Ishamel | Photography by Shelly Schmidt

Living by the Water Design by John Ishmael of Nandina Home and Design Atlanta

Design by John Ishmael | Photography by Shelly Schmidt

Living by the Water Design by John Ishmael of Nandina Home and Design Atlanta

Design by John Ishmael | Photography by Shelly Schmidt


The biggest challenge for this project was to design a home that would meld together their new surroundings with their previous belongings in order to make a comfortable, beautiful, warm and welcoming lakeside sanctuary. Every room gracefully mixes French and English antiques with casual rugs, comfortable neutral sofas and chairs, and a color palette that speaks to life on the lake. – Susan Victor Living by the Water

Living by the Water Design by Susan Victor of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Susan Victor | Photography by Shelly Schmidt

Living by the Water Design by Susan Victor of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Susan Victor | Photography by Shelly Schmidt


My clients desired to create a clean-lined modern beach house that could be a haven for their family and friends, but also have furnishings suitable for luxury rentals. The end result boasts a home filled with joyous touches, a fresh coastal vibe and an appreciation for those that spend time there. – Sue Shannon 

Living by the Water Design by Sue Shannon of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Sue Shannon | Photography by Kim Smith

Living by the Water Design by Sue Shannon of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Sue Shannon | Photography by Kim Smith

Living by the Water Design by Sue Shannon of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Sue Shannon | Photography by Kim Smith


The main criteria of this design revolved around the lake, which brings such joy to this family, and all of the main rooms open to a beautiful lake view. It has been my good fortune to work with this family, who live full-time on a lake, over several years to methodically create a home that reflects both their interests and personalities. – Michele Merritt Living by the Water

Living by the Water Design by Michele Merritt of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Michele Merritt | Photography by Shelly Schmidt

Living by the Water Design by Michele Merritt of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Michele Merritt | Photography by Shelly Schmidt

Living by the Water Design by Michele Merritt of Nandina Home and Design Aiken

Design by Michele Merritt | Photography by Shelly Schmidt