Schmidt Custom Builders Showcase Home

A Spark of Inspiration

When Mark Schmidt of Schmidt Custom Builders partnered with Jo Howell of Ginger Interior Design to create Mason’s Farmhouse—a Southern Living showcase home in Wilmington, North Carolina—the surrounding marshlands became the natural starting point.

“It’s a home that feels rooted yet relevant,” says Schmidt. The husband-and-wife team drew inspiration from the landscape, layering airy whites, beach-washed tans, and warm natural woods to create a space that feels both relaxed and refined. A suite of matte white CAFÉ appliances blends seamlessly into the home’s palette.

Creating the Palette

In the kitchen, CAFÉ appliances helped establish the tone for the entire space. The design called for warmth and natural light without harsh glare—something soft, layered, and easy on the eye. The matte white finish of the appliances offers a subtle glow, while brushed bronze hardware adds a gentle warmth reminiscent of the coastal sunset. Together, these details complement the room’s textures and tones, from the cabinetry to the quartz countertops.

Shaped by the Shoreline

The materials in the kitchen echo the quiet character of the Carolina coast. “Every metal, texture, and finish was selected to feel as if it had been touched by salt air and sun,” says Howell. Each element contributes to a layered look that feels organic and lived-in. The effect is subtle but powerful—bringing the serenity of the shoreline indoors and creating a kitchen that feels both tranquil and inviting.

To learn more about this Showcase Home please visit https://www.schmidtcustombuilders.com/