Photos by Derek Bell
Nestled in the arms of Mount Alto, the home of Toles, Temple & Wright real estate agent Debbie O’Connor is wrapped and ready for an abundance of Christmas cheer. Currently adorned with a wreath on every window, this three-bedroom, traditional-style home, built in the early 90s, was a perfect fit for O’Connor, her daughter Holly Voss, and their 11-year-old Shih Tzu, Cosmo.
“Homes and decor are passions for me. Finding a new property and making it your own is such a great feeling,” O’Connor smiles.
When she decided to downsize a year and a half ago, O’Connor knew immediately that the grandiose entrance into a columned foyer was meant for her. With hard work, lots of paint and a vision, O’Connor restored and recreated the home’s interior into a space upon which to rest her pride.
“Mom has always had an eye for taking something mediocre and making it fabulous,” Voss says.
With the help of head designer and owner of Pineapple Place (13 East Third Ave., Rome) Crandel Allmon, O’Connor has transformed her home into a lavish tribute to the Christmas season; from entrance to sun porch every surface, mantle and shelf is embellished with extravagant bows, soft white lights and holiday relics reminiscent of a snow-covered fairy-land.
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- Debbie O’Connor and Holly Voss
“I love Crandel Allmon,” O’Connor beams. “He knows exactly what I want and where I want it. I don’t know what I would do without him.”
Stories in the form of twinkling ornaments hang from tabletop pines throughout the rooms and O’Connor’s golden hardwood floors, rich Oriental rugs, colorful folk art, and eclectic mix of furnishings fit ever-so snug inside the glowing warmth of her holiday-ready home.
“It doesn’t matter how big or how small,” O’Connor smiles. “Everybody’s house is their castle.”
For all your decorating needs, contact Pineapple Place at 706.314.9524
