The siding and roof was finished with full-cedar shingles and copper flashing. Arts and Crafts construction also included the use of heavy timbers, bolts, and heavy columns strapped to beams with steel plates and painted with anodized paint, evident on the gracious, wrapped front porch. Even the use of Tabby (shells blown into the stucco undercoating) in the foundation is for authenticity to the period.

Verna Burke, co-owner of The Inside Story Interiors, actually began her design work on the exterior of the home. "I chose all the light fixtures for Magnolia Shade, both interior and exterior, and then worked closely on the myriad of details inside the home. Good interior design begins when the architect draws his plans, and then we begin to concentrate on the details, details, details," said Verna. "For instance, a good interior decorator will work with the contractor to determine where to paint, where light fixtures will be most effective, and which hardware will compliment the cabinetry. In the case of Magnolia Shade, we used a casting mold for the all the hardware and an exquisite Tiffany-glass hanging light fixture in the foyer. "

Ms. Burke chose the Arcadian Home Collection from Bernhardt to furnish Magnolia Shade because of its "reflection of the pleasure of a restful life, the beauty of nature, and the quiet that brings balance to often hurried lives" ... the trademark of the Arts and Crafts period. "In addition, we used works of Bob Timberlake (artist and furniture designer for Lexington) to add warmth and a folk art feeling to the interior design," said Verna. Since Magnolia Shade overlooks a lake with proximity to the bay and Gulf, fishing-theme accessories combined with shells and flora accents compliments the other period design pieces and exterior environment. Hallmarks of the Arts and Crafts movement included rich woods and natural grains, intricate inlays and marquetry detailing - used in the furniture throughout the house.