Drama On The Water Front

by abby hoeffner | photography by tim watson

Six years ago, at the end of a private cul de sac along the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard sat a vacant, pie-shaped lot. The piece of land sloped at an awkward angle toward the lake but boasted a beautiful view. Standing on the lot, looking out at the lake, the potential owners could envision their home spreading out like a fan, stepping down in multiple levels toward the water. The home that sits on it today is the brainchild of Rick and Kristi Shipley. Read on for more.

Walking down a stone pathway to the front door, you’re greeted with the warm glow of a table lamp that rests in a small alcove on a simple side table. It’s unexpected, but oh so charming. Then Kristi opens the door and you step into a multi-level space that functions as foyer, music room, dining room and formal living area.
It’s the openness that sets the home apart. “We designed the house so you could stand in one place and see a lot of the home,” Rick explained, “That and having a magnificent view of the lake when you first walk in makes a pretty dramatic impact.”

A soothing palette of gold, platinum and olive-tinted taupe begins at the front door and continues throughout the home. Heavy iron lighting fixtures lend an air of elegant masculinity. Although the overall impression is one of complementary cohesion, nothing is matchy-matchy. A variety of furniture finishes, fabrics and accessories make the space feel pulled together over time and not off a showroom floor. For example, a pair of cast-off chairs, recovered with an economical zebra print, hold their own against custom dining chairs swathed in expensive silk.
“It’s like pairing a great designer shoe with a discount jean,” Kristi said.

When hosting large and small gatherings, the kitchen serves as the entertaining hub. The ample island and roomy layout allow for traffic flow, while food and drinks set out on the counters draw people in.
“People just walk through, get a bite to eat and mingle,” Kristi explained.
There’s a comfortable livability about the home. The deep, cushioned sofa in the formal living room beckons one to a fireside chat over a cup of coffee. Every surface has a touchable quality. Even with the layers of luxurious décor, nothing feels roped off.
“The biggest compliment we’ve received about the home,” said Kristi, “is that people say they feel like they can come in, sit, touch and use every space—that it’s a home where people aren’t afraid of breaking things.”