By Anna Grace Moore
Photos by Katherine Horton Photography
Crimson Tide alumni Michael and Brittany Hermecz’s paths first crossed as undergraduate students, during which time they quickly fell head-over-heels for one another. After graduating, they embarked on a new milestone together–marriage, tying the knot and venturing to Birmingham to start their careers.
Brittany attended medical school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham; whereas, Michael began working in engineering. Their first humble abode was a niche, little condo along Massey Road in Vestavia Hills, but as their dreams of family began to expand, they trekked westward for homes that would accommodate their desires.
The couple settled in the Sawyer Trail neighborhood of Ross Bridge and lived there for eight, wonderful years as Brittany became a doctor of diagnostic radiology and Michael became a principal engineer with Schoel Engineering Company, Inc. Despite these successes, the Hermeczes maintain that their favorite accomplishments will always be welcoming their daughters–Tatum, 6, and Julia, 4–into the world during these sweet years.
Life was swell for a while. Then, Michael and Brittany began to feel the pull of extracurriculars and demanding careers, complicating their family time.
They began searching the Over-the-Mountain market for houses in closer proximity to their daily rhythm. In full-circle fashion, they stumbled upon a new construction development on Massey Road, with the last lot ripe for the taking.
Although initially uncertain, the couple took a leap of faith and decided to build their forever home, partnering with RW Construction, architect Chuck Frusterio and interior designer Lauren Murphy. The brainchild of this collaboration yielded a gorgeous rendition of the “modern farmhouse,” meshing sophistication with Southern charm.
Featuring white board-and-batten siding, a charcoal-tinted roof and black window trims, the façade’s stark contrast and clean lines create an eye-popping curb appeal. Interestingly, the couple opted for a touch of privacy, blocking the street’s view of the front door by having it face parallel with the road.
Inside, the wide-plank, light-toned flooring anchors the design’s foundation. The expansive windows illuminate each space in natural light, especially the entryway whose walls stretch more than 20 feet.
The epitome of fine craftsmanship and functionality, the Hermeczes’ home is the fulfillment of their dream–a solution for their needs now and a space to accommodate the next milestones they’ll achieve.
Michael and Brittany credit Lauren Murphy for her time and talents in bringing their dream to fruition–creating a home that would grow as their family’s needs will, too. To view more of her portfolio or start a conversation about a project, visit laurenmichellemurphy.com.
Entryway
The lofty ceilings and expansive windows draw attention upwards to the heightened space.
Ethereal Accents
Lauren utilized a more neutral color palette, grounding the interior’s aesthetics with earth tones for a calming atmosphere.
Kitchen
Paired with marble countertops and lacquered brass finishes, the kitchen is just as beautiful as it is functional. The adjacent cabinetry provides bespoke storage for the family’s vintage pieces.
Breakfast Nook
The site of fellowship, the breakfast nook is one of the family’s favorite spaces in the entire home.
Living Room
Repurposed from a log cabin, the reclaimed wood beams add a bit of rustic charm and warmth to this rather neutral space, layering the foundation’s design with signature touches from the floor’s rug to the ceiling.
Powder Room
While Brittany prefers understated designs, she stepped out of her comfort zone, trusting Lauren with this vibrantly flowing wallpaper paired with a traditional, marble vanity. Now, it is one of the house’s best talking points.
Master Bedroom
This master suite exudes a tranquil feeling, thanks to its bright, airy environment that is anchored by touches of serene green.
Master Bathroom
As one of the home’s most opulent architectural marvels, the master bathroom features Carrara marble countertops, a double vanity, a free-standing tub, a large, walk-in shower and a frosted window for privacy–compliments of RW Construction.
Behind the Scenes
Builder: RW Construction
Architect: Frusterio Design
Interior Designer: Lauren Murphy Design
