Story and Photography by Casey Perfetto

The brick-lined walkway that leads to the Hillmers’ front door feels like the start of a story, and in many ways, it is. Andy, a Knoxville native from the Bearden area, and Veazey, originally from Oxford, Mississippi, met during their senior year at Ole Miss. After graduation, Veazey followed Andy back to East Tennessee, where they planted roots, raised their two children and built a life together. The Hillmers have lived in their Riverbend home since the fall of 2016.

Inside, the home blends timeless architecture with a transitional design that feels fresh, refined and personal. “I wanted our home to feel light and bright, while being comfortable and welcoming,” Veazey says. That vision comes to life through carefully curated rooms layered with texture, clean lines and subtle warmth. The Hillmers worked with Paul Law and Ginger Dockery of Law’s Interiors to bring their aesthetic to life. The result is a balanced mix of old and new, with modern light fixtures and bold artwork paired with classic trim work and rich finishes. “The art adds a pop of color to a neutral palette, while the wallpaper, paneling and draperies add the texture that I love,” Veazey notes.

Originally a formal living room, the dining space was redesigned with hosting in mind. A sculptural chandelier now anchors the large table, perfect for family dinners and gatherings with friends. Across the way, the former dining room has been transformed into an inviting office filled with natural light and tactile materials.

In the kitchen, maple cabinetry and granite countertops wrap around a functional layout, with open sightlines into the living room. A four-person table just off the kitchen offers a bright spot for casual meals, coffee or time together. One of the most striking spaces is the powder room. It has a jewel box featuring a dramatic round mirror and statement wallpaper in a pine cone motif, paired with aged brass fixtures and a rich countertop. It’s unexpected and perfectly in line with the home’s layered style. The main-level primary suite is a retreat in every sense. Muted tones, soft textiles and delicate wallpaper lend the space a tranquil, elevated feel. "It's a space that feels cozy and calm - just the way I wanted it to feel," Veazey says. Throughout the home, touches of blue add a cheerful contrast to the neutral palette. “I love blue. You can see it sprinkled around the house in different ways. It makes me happy!” she says with a smile.

Personal touches abound, from curated coffee table books to striking ceramic pieces, including some created by Andy's mother, who enjoys pottery. Three framed pictures from Pawleys Island, all painted by family friends, hang proudly, a special place where Andy proposed in the marsh. "Pawleys is special to us," Veazey says. "We go back every year." With each decision made over time and with care, including renovating one room at a time after moving in, the Hillmers have created a home that’s as welcoming as it is beautiful. Classic yet current, layered but approachable, it’s a true reflection of the people who live there.