An Inside-Out Overhaul

The Masseys' den is uniquely arranged, with seating that allows for either intimate conversations or group discussions. The brilliant, earthy hues of red, yellow, cream and sage create an eye-catching color palette, and the contemporary artwork provides a lovely balance for some of the more traditional features of the room.

Writer Kathy K. Martin
Photographer Terry Sweeney

Mark Massey joked that he realized his home's transformation was complete when close friends didn't recognize it and drove right past it. Mark and his wife, Suzanne, owners of Zaven Kish Oriental Rugs, lived in the 1970s Georgian-style East Memphis home for 10 years before beginning the remodeling project in 1991. Fittingly, the home's interior features many exquisite, hand-knotted rugs representing both traditional and contemporary designs. Many of the furnishings are English and reflect the couple's love of traditional, classic pieces, yet mix well with paintings by area artists and some more transitional furnishings.