Page 161 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2018

The Ocean Springs home of Joanna and Greg Worch is
full of beauty and charm that begins at the front courtyard entrance. This soothing setting — with ferns and a fountain
— is one of three courtyards that along with a huge multi-level back yard creates an enchanting place.
Located in the historic district, the home was built in 1949. The Worches have lived there 15 years and made small alterations, mostly modern updates. They’ve enjoyed the large area added to the back of the house by a former owner.
The Pines Hotel once stood on the site. “There was only one pine tree standing after Hurricane Katrina and we had it cut down. Now we call the property Missing Pines,” Joanna Worch says with a laugh.
The living area of the home is spacious and open with lots of natural light. The living room with its brick flooring flows into the family room with warm colors and comfortable furniture interspersed with vintage pieces. “I like mixing antiques with contemporary furnishings,” Worch said.
This mixture is evident in the family room where antique theater chairs and a small
vintage table blend happily with a modern 13-by-13-foot sectional sofa and custom made white oak coffee table that matches the white oak flooring. The table is on casters
so it can be located as needed and can also serve as extra seating. There’s a pool table with a sky light overhead and colorful local art, including a painting by Meridian-born actress Sela Ward. A spiral staircase leads to a teenage bedroom retreat.
“We have a lot of events here and this room is perfect for it,” Joanna says. “We have events for our church and non-profits because I’ve served on lots of boards. We’ve even
had a wedding here and can put 60 people in here.”
The modern kitchen also lends itself to entertaining with its two Viking ranges and wine cooler, ample cabinets and built-in banquet surrounding a pub table. A large chalk board wall keeps reminders for events and family activities on course. The color scheme of gray and white accented with
black ceiling beams makes the room crisp and inviting.
The formal dining room seats 10 diners underneath a distinctive chandelier. Cream- colored velvet drapes at the windows add a touch of elegance while a self painting of their >>
story by Lynn Lofton photos by Katherine Sowers
Ocean Springs Home Accented with Courtyards and Beautiful Setting
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