By Anna Grace Moore
Photos by Kelsea Schafer & Brendan Young
Nestled in a verdant escape, The Highlands of Chelsea neighborhood spans more than 700 acres, with homes perched atop grassy knolls that offer striking views of the surrounding valley. These very sights drew two Atlanteans to build their forever home here in Highlands — arguably, the most beautiful neighborhood in Shelby County, they say.
Lee and Joan Friedman first toyed with the idea of moving to the Magic City when both of their sons established their careers in Birmingham. Lee, who spent years in education administration in the Atlanta public school system and the Westminster schools, says he was first drawn to the area for its natural respite.
After touring several vacancies in the neighborhood, the Friedmans’ interviewed two different home builders before choosing to work with P. Ray Construction. A husband-and-wife duo, Patrick and Jonica Ray’s work is the hallmark of fine craftsmanship.
When designing the Friedmans’ home, they implemented a refined, farmhouse-style feel, marrying rustic charm with refined living. The home’s facade features gabled peaks, stout, timber columns and a wide front porch, marked with flagstone from SiteOne Landscape Supply, which all contribute to its country aesthetic.
Stepping indoors, one first notices the expansive entryway, whose custom-built, antique sliding barn doors and shiplap siding sets the tone for the rest of the home. This walkway opens into the living room — or the great room, as the family calls it.
The European French Oak flooring contrasts nicely with the pine, tongue-and-groove ceiling, which stands more than 18 feet tall. Wall to wall hangs gorgeous, original pieces of artwork from artists all over the nation (the Friedmans estimate they have more than 100 paintings in their possession).
As one turns his gaze to the kitchen, he will stand in awe of its splendor. Jonica selected custom, handmade cabinets by Heath Hughes and paired them with type quartz perimeter countertops and soapstone for the island. For the backsplash, she chose a subtle, patterned tile from Cottage Supply to play into the farmhouse feel.
Although, no matter the room or the architectural detail, the Friedmans maintain the best part of their home is that it is their most prized work of art — an original home created by two exceptional artisans, Patrick and Jonica Ray.
Face of the Home
Fusing modern farmhouse with craftsman design, the facade features board-and-batten siding, natural wood accents and gabled peaks that contribute to its stately curb appeal.
Entryway
Exuding rustic elegance, the entryway’s shiplap siding and sliding barn doors — compliments of Southern Accents Architectural Antiques — set the house’s tone back to a simpler time, offering a warm welcome to those entering for the first or the 100th time.
Living Room
Dubbed “the great room,” the living room’s vaulted ceiling and exposed wooden beams crown this luxurious room; whereas, the whitewashed brick fireplace bordered by the recessed shelving anchors this thoughtfully curated space. The expansive, gridded windows allow natural light to flood the open concept, adding to its warm hospitality.
Liberty Head
An original by Peter Max, this painting, dubbed “Liberty Head,” is a symbol of pride and patriotism and rests among the shelves framing the great room’s fireplace.
Sentimental Keepsakes
Pictured are more than a century’s worth of historical artifacts belonging to the Friedman family, most notably the cuffs of a World War II-era Naval uniform worn by one of their relatives.
Kitchen
Underneath a coffered ceiling, the back splash’s geometric tilework, the brushed brass fixtures and the island’s bold soapstone’s hues elevate the kitchen in a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality.
Hall of Art
Adorning this hallway connecting the kitchen, laundry room and Lee’s office are paintings from some of the Friedmans’ favorite artists. The door leading to the garage features a light-up exit sign. Joan painted this landscape of an old Sinclair filling station for Lee for Father’s Day.
“Jackie”
Pictured is an original, lithograph painting of Jackie Kennedy by Lee’s best friend, Bulgarian artist Ross Rossin.
Master Bathroom
Combining elegance and functionality, this spa-inspired primary bathroom features checkered flooring, a free-standing tub, dual vanities and sliding barn doors that open in the walk-in closet.
Behind the Scenes
Home Builder: Patrick Ray, P. Ray Construction
Interior Designer: Jonica Ray, P. Ray Construction
Kitchen Countertops: Maranatha Stone & Floors
Kitchen Cabinets: Heath Hughes
Kitchen Appliances: AllSouth Appliance Group, Inc.
Fixtures & Finishes: Inline Lighting & Antique Salvaged Fixtures
Plumbing Fixtures: VW Gallerie
Barn Doors: Southern Accents Architectural Antiques
Plantation Shutters: Exclusively Shutters
Exterior Brick: Alabama Brick
Exterior Walkway: SiteOne Landscape Supply
Lumber, Windows, Doors & Roofing: Oak Mountain Building Supply
Landscaping: MTZ Landscaping
