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  • Southern Living magazine's 2022 'Idea House' will be built in North Carolina this year. (Rendering: Muir Stewart)
    Southern Living magazine’s 2022 ‘Idea House’ will be built in North Carolina this year. (Rendering: Muir Stewart)

    River Dunes in coastal North Carolina, about 140 miles outside of Raleigh, will be the site of Southern Living magazine’s “Idea House,” featuring the latest in contempory design and modern living.

    Centered around the concept of “The Great Escape,” this year’s Idea House takes its inspiration from the laid-back charm of the Carolina coast, according to the publication.

    “This year’s Idea House reflects the ideas and innovations that are changing the way we live,” said Southern Living Editor in Chief Sid Evans, in a statement.

    “As the name suggests, there are ideas in the architecture, the interiors, the products, and the details, but it all adds up to a beautiful home that’s designed to inspire.”

    North Carolina has become a magnet for retirees and the Raleigh-Durham area offers a high-degree of cosmopolitan living.

    River Dunes, a waterfront community located in the town of Oriental, boasts a world-class 400 slip harbor among other amenities.

    Oriental, which only has 900 fulltime residents, is considered the sailing capital of North Carolina.

    The Neuse River and Pamlico Sound also attract sport fishermen

     The home, which has yet to be built, is designed to work for modern families who need comfort and style, as well as the flexibility of distinct spaces for Zoom calls or family gatherings.

    Located directly across from the harbor (with water views), the house will be about 4,125 square feet, with extensive wraparound porches and outdoor living spaces that are made for entertaining.

    Architect William Court of Court Atkins Group, builder Jordan Maroules of SLD Custom Homes, and interior designer Charlotte Lucas of Charlotte Lucas Interior Design, will oversee construction from start to finish.

    “We have a stellar team of the South’s top builders, architects, designers, and landscapers on board this year to bring the Idea House to life,” said Deirdre Finnegan, vice president and Southern Living.

    Twelve sponsors are contributing to the 2022 Idea House, whose products will be included in the home.

    Southern Living Sponsors

    • Clopay Garage Doors,
    • James Hardie, Marvin,
    • Monogram Luxury Appliances,
    • Regina Andrew, Southern Living Collection Exclusively at Dillard’s,
    • Southern Living Plant Collection,
    • Summer Classics Home,
    • Sunbrella,
    • The Sherwin-Williams Company,
    • Westlake Royal Building Products

    Tickets will be available to take in-person tours this summer, with appropriate guidelines and safety protocols in place.

    A portion of the proceeds of home tour tickets will go to local charities.

    In November, the Idea House will be decorated for the holidays, with in-person and virtual activations to be scheduled in celebration of the season.

    Following the completion of the house, a Southern Living House Plan for the 2022 Idea House will be available for purchase at SouthernLivingHousePlans.com

    More information about the 2022 Idea House can be found on Southern Living’s website at southernliving.com/ideahouse.

    The home will be open for public tours from July to December and will be featured in the October issue of Southern Living, available on newsstands Sept. 23.