James Carville and Mary Matalin’s Country Home: “Farmers on Acid” Design
The Virginia farmhouse blends history and modernity with vibrant colors.
1The Story of a Farmhouse
James Carville and Mary Matalin purchased their Virginia farmhouse in 1995. The property combines an 18th-century log structure with a modern addition from the 1990s. The farm spans 120 acres and is home to goats, chickens, and horses.
2A Family Gathering Place
The farmhouse has become a place for the Carville and Matalin family to gather for holidays, anniversaries, and weddings. Carville sees the house as a Thanksgiving gathering spot, especially during cozy moments by the fire.
3The Rebirth of Interior Design
After serving as a storage space for antiques for over 30 years, the house was redesigned by interior designer Cameron Ruppert. Ruppert brought together a cornucopia of colors and patterns to revitalize the home.
4Harmony of Colors
Matalin insisted on avoiding white and light colors in the project. A brightly hued wallpaper and a Farrow Ball color called “Acid Drop” became the central theme, dubbed “farmers on acid.”
5Blending History and Modernity
The original log structure dates back to 1753 and is believed to have served as a Civil War hospital. The 1990s addition features sharp angles. Ruppert reconciled these two architectural styles through vibrant colors.
6The Impact of the Great Room
The heart of the home is the great room, which Ruppert organized into defined areas. Chairs and sofas from the family’s collection were revamped, creating a space filled with natural light and color.
7Art and Details
The home features artworks by Russian postwar artist Victor Razgulin. Ruppert commissioned a custom casing for a Samsung Frame TV, blending it seamlessly with the art pieces. Every detail reflects the family’s personal tastes.
8The Soul of a Home
Carville and Matalin’s farmhouse is a design masterpiece that blends history, modernity, and vibrant colors. It has become a symbol of the family’s past and future, holding their memories and aspirations together.