Homes can be thought of in two ways: our physical houses, and our larger home in the natural community of the Piedmont. Homes reflect who we are, what we value, what we find beautiful, and what brings us serenity and peace of mind. With this in mind, we present the annual Home Issue.

First, we visit Elway Hall, the Warrenton home of world-renowned interior designer Barry Dixon. Since relocating to the Piedmont, he has been inspired by the natural surroundings on his property, which have made their way into his new design collections. One of Dixon’s mantras is to “bring the outside indoors,” not only with the colors and textures in his paints and fabrics, but with plants in the landscape, which often make their way inside to complement his existing decor.

Rappahannock homebuilder Joe Keyser melds his construction with the surrounding landscape — and local values of preservation and respecting open space. In working with his clients, Keyser translates their dreams and visions into the dwellings they will one day call home.

As our home in the broader sense, the Piedmont has been shaped by history, both human and equine. Nancy Olds takes us into the world of cavalry reenactors, and the experiences of the horses who served with the soldiers in the Civil War.  

There’s also an undeniable sense of community found at dining tables. This issue contains five wonderful recipes, which the chefs encourage you to prepare with readily available fresh, local ingredients. And what’s fresher or more local than the flowers in your own backyard? Laurie Beth Gills’ creations are built around the common daylily (Hemerocallis fulva), whose nutty flavor is rivaled only by its beauty. Get them now while they’re in blossom!

Don’t forget to consult our calendar—in this print issue, on our website, and featured weekly on our blog and newsletter—to choose some of the many marvelous events around our Piedmont home.

Pam