Text by Holly Seng
Perched on the bluff side of Shades Mountain in Birmingham, Alabama, Janet and Robert Clifton’s home pairs an abundance of picturesque views with exceptional curb appeal thanks to the exterior’s timeless English Tudor-style charm. However, step inside and you’ll be met with equally stunning views as cool blue hues mingle with warm neutrals for a design that strikes a balance between masculine and feminine, offering a fresh take on time-honored style.
“I just wanted to stay true to the traditional style of the home, but I’m also very eclectic in that I mix in tradition with more modern things, like art and lamps,” says the homeowner and interior designer behind Janet Clifton Interiors. “I’m a believer in purchasing what you love, and it will always work somewhere.”
The gallery wall in the Cliftons’ entry is a prime example of Janet’s philosophy. Consisting of original paintings in a variety of mediums, the collection comprises a few passed-down family treasures, such as the primitive landscape painted by Janet’s grandmother at age 15. “I started with landscapes and then it kind of morphed into collecting a piece here and there when we travel, particularly when we travel abroad,” she says. Other found objects incorporated into the entry’s design include the antique rug layered atop a larger sisal and a lantern that Janet discovered in Charleston, South Carolina.
To give the home a fresh update, Janet had every room painted Natural Choice by Sherwin-Williams, emphasizing the rich brown of the wood beams and vaulted ceilings. In the living room, neutral upholstery enhances the warmer tones in the rug while layers of blue and brown accents solidify the scheme for a soothing and welcoming aesthetic. To relax the traditional feel of the design, she integrated modern artwork, including a pair of paintings above the sofa created by Robert’s son.
Expansive cased openings create a seamless flow from room to room without sacrificing the coziness of separate spaces. “That’s what I love about this house,” notes Janet, adding that, while open-concept layouts have been popular in recent years, intimate spaces are making a comeback. “It really does flow well when we have guests.”
In the dining room, a striking antique trumeau mirror, complete with the original painting, serves as the inspiration for the surrounding scene. Custom draperies fashioned from an Anna French fabric tie in the blue and teal notes while touches of light brown pull it all together. The chandelier, a find that has accompanied Janet over her last three moves, imparts timeless elegance, and the hutch—a family heirloom of Robert’s—houses their various collections, which span from sterling silver to majolica.
Vaulted ceilings make a reappearance in the kitchen, where an asymmetrical design lends unique character and quirkiness that Janet fully embraces. The cabinets are painted Benjamin Moore’s Natural Cream with soapstone countertops, striking a contrast against the island, which is coated in Waterloo by Sherwin-Williams and topped with Alabama white marble. In autumn, the Cliftons love to host a wild game dinner where they serve quail and pheasant paired with Janet’s highly requested wild rice soup.
Emerald green accompanies indigo in the primary bedroom, with the featured fabric of the coordinating bolster and throw pillows serving as the setting’s muse. Lighter wood tones and crisp white bedding contribute to the light and airy aesthetic. Adding storied style, Janet had gold embellishments framed to adorn the wall above the bed, draping an African mud cloth over the bench to weave in her signature shade. “I love blue, and I use all hues of blue throughout my home,” says Janet. “It’s kind of the common thread that knits all the spaces together.”
