Rustic Charm

A Home That Personifies Family Friendly Living

 Stained pine beams and a metal two-tier chandelier soar above the living room where a black honed granite fireplace with custom millwork mantle bring warmth to the transitional setting. A pair of tall distressed black Demilune consoles bookmark the fireplace providing storage. Blue velvet upholstered sofa and blue and white patterned fabric on the washed wooden legged arm stairs give the room its casual, coastal vibe.

After short stints living in the Medical Center area, Stone Oak and Converse, a young couple ready to nest with two small children found a new home in Alamo Heights that was the perfect place to perch.

Located on a quiet street lined with mature trees, Katherine and Jack Trimble – who had moved their family to San Antonio to complete Jack’s pediatric residency – found a new spec home with family-friendly charm.

Offered by the build and interior design team of Dy Lynne and Jack Dabney, the home imbued casual family living with a coastal farmhouse vibe, set in a neighborhood of well-maintained older homes. “We both like the look of older homes in the neighborhood and wanted to keep that look on the street,” emphasized Dy Lynne Dabney who, with her husband Jack, live just down the street and welcomed the new neighbors to the community.

Carrera marble island counter anchors the light-filled kitchen where black soap stone countertops contrast with pale gray and white backsplash of hand made cement tiles reaching ceiling height. Stainless steel appliances, bronze and brass lighting fixtures, black farmhouse faucet and brass hardware that is hung horizontally on cabinets and drawers add panache. Stools are covered in Sunbrella fabric for kid- friendly use.

With two active children, William, 4, and Eleanor, 2, the Trimbles were on the search for a home close to St Luke’s Episcopal School where the children attend classes. With a close friend from her middle school days in Houston now living in San Antonio, Katherine has acclimated to the community quickly. And many friendships have been formed with St Luke’s families and friends of their children.

“Alamo Heights is such a safe, friendly community right in the center of the city. It’s ten minutes away from everything,” said Katherine. “I had heard people call it ‘the bubble’ and it’s true – I never want to leave.”

Entertaining is essential to the talented host and it is reflected in her home’s welcoming style. The kitchen island of white Carrera marble anchors the open concept area that invites family and friends into the heart of the home. A dramatic backsplash of hand made cement tiles in muted gray and white run from the black soapstone backsplash to the ceiling. Globe pendants of dark rubbed bronze with brass candelabra add sophisticated appeal to the setting. Reclaimed wooden shelves hold cookbooks, mixing bowls and dishware at the ready. A white farmhouse sink and black iron bridged faucet add rustic charm.

A shiplap wall in the master bedroom brings farmhouse tranquility to the private quarters where photography and children’s silhouettes are displayed. Hand embroidered linens and bedding from Lin Marché. One of the three family dogs, Little Molly, holds court on a bench that once belonged to Katherine’s mother.

A professional photographer, many of Katherine’s family portraits grace the walls of their home. Just off of the kitchen is a retreat where she has an office and workspace for photographic endeavors.

A wooden farmhouse table seating eight from Joyeux Home Décor is home to Katherine’s monthly gatherings where some of her girlfriends compete in a friendly card game of Onze. Country French Chairs covered in white linen and a pair of captain’s chairs in oatmeal linen seats eight comfortably under a black lantern light. A built-in bar with wine refrigerator keep libations close at hand.

The bright, floral wallpaper was a favorite from her daughter’s room in Stone Oak. Katherine loved the wallpaper and contacted designer Kim Wolfe to order the same paper for the new room. Built around the white barley twist day bed, custom shelves hold books, dolls and mementoes. Brass legged and rose velvet chair from Anthropologie.

Getting into the community spirit, Katherine and Jack are planning their second annual Fiesta Party complete with a taco truck, mariachis and Fiesta medals for April. Volunteering at St Luke’s, Katherine also participates in Parent Parties, where she hosts groups of school parents for “fundraising” activities.

Scheduled for completion this summer, party plans are spilling into the outdoors where the couple is putting in a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and pergola for respite from the summer sun.

Having found a place to call home, the Trimbles are graciously welcoming family and friends to their city of beauty and charm with heartfelt hospitality.

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By John Bloodsworth

Photography by Al Rendon

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