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I nside 6621 Northridge Drive, vibrant energy abounds. "As an artist, light is a critical part of my everyday experience," Allen Martin says. "In designing the home, I wanted every room to be filled with light and allow the outdoors to play into the experience of indoor living. The home has six sets of French doors and another set off the garage/studio. We also used oversized Lincoln windows to create the same illuminating effect and bring in natural light. I love that the design feels familiar in some ways but is also completely original. We took several styles and blended them to make the perfect intersection of architecture and design." Allen Martin's passion for integrating her art into the home is evident as one moves from space to space, both indoors and out. "This home is the purest expression that I have ever produced outside of my paintings," she says. "My mom designed houses growing up and we drove to Baton Rouge and New Orleans to select antique lighting and designed multiple custom lanterns. My mom found the fireplace mantel from an antiques dealer that had purchased it in the south of France, acquired the oversized antique pantry doors, and helped me custom- mix the majority o f p a i n t c o l o r s t h r o u g h o u t t h e home." Allen Martin searched from city to city and warehouse to warehouse to source the perfect materials. "I found dovecotes at a warehouse, and we drew out the design you see within the brick of the parapets," she says. "Much as I do in my art, I looked for materials and then allowed the materials to inspire the next element in design. I've found the best way to be inspired is not to sit and look at images, but to get out and experience the world and let the materials lead you to the next idea." The home is zoned for coveted Lakewood Elementary, and its cul-de-sac and neighbors only enhance the desirability of the property. "Lakewood is such a great neighborhood, and this home offers a rare downstairs primary and guest suite that is appealing to a wide audience.," Allen Martin says. "I know that whoever buys this home will love and enjoy it the same way we have," she says. "It has an energy and personality of its own that comforts you and inspires you. We're excited for our next adventure, which includes the purchase of a 1933 O'Neil Ford in Greenway Parks — purchased with the help of family friend and agent Claire Dewar. The owner's mother was an artist, and it was important for her to sell to someone who appreciates the architectural significance of the home. We're committed to maintain the home's original details and create a new experience living closer to our family." "We took several styles and blended them to make the perfect intersection of architecture and design." — Carly Allen Martin carlyallenmartin.com @carlyallenmartin The Facts $2.295 million / 3,668 SF 4 bedrooms/5 baths 6621 Northridge Drive in Lakewood Listed by Ryan Streiff, Dave Perry Miller Real Estate ryan@daveperrymiller.com Carly Allen Martin NICOLE FRANCO 77