By Victoria Hutton
Photos by Bill Dabney
Nestled between the historic Oxford Square and the University of Mississippi, Gail and John Ott’s enchanting home on Tyler Avenue is perfectly positioned to embrace the rhythms of life in Oxford. During bustling game weekends, this warm and inviting house becomes a natural gathering spot—a cherished haven where friends and family come together. Affectionately named Couples Cottage by Gail, the home draws its name from the steady stream of visitors who always seem to arrive in pairs—whether as spouses, sweethearts, or companions simply sharing the joy of its welcoming spaces. Built in the 1930s and meticulously renovated in 2013, the English country-inspired residence stands as a testament to timeless craftsmanship and thoughtful design.
A Labor of Love: The Renovation Journey
When the Otts purchased the house in 2005, it served as a rental property until their vision for a major remodel came to life in 2012. The renovation, completed in 2013, became a heartfelt project fueled by collaboration with skilled artisans and dear friends. Gail recalled, “I was in graduate school, and Johnny was in law school when I fell in love with English antiques. There was a very old home outside of Oxford where I bought my first English
piece- a bread board! It was the beginning of my love affair with Classic English design.”
Bridget and Glenn Green, family members and key contributors, played a pivotal role in shaping the redesign. Glenn’s detailed sketches inspired the home’s trusses, bookshelves, and layout, later refined by designer Macel of Macel By Design. Macel even conceptualized an additional upstairs bedroom the Otts had not initially imagined. Phil Clark of Clark Property and Construction led the renovation, assembling a team of master craftsmen. Don Wren and his children, Tyler and Marcie Mounce, handled the home’s intricate painting. James Carraway constructed their trusses of old wood reclaimed by Tom Smith from Pennsylvania and delivered them personally to ensure precise installation using a crane. Custom details elevated the design further, with Kennedy Powell of K & M Custom Woodworking crafting cabinetry, window shutters, and distressed wood finishes. A standout piece—a powder room cabinet incorporating a vintage front sourced by Gail in Baton Rouge—blends modern functionality with antique charm.
Throughout the process, Gail’s close friend Charlotte Pray was a constant source of support, joining weekly site visits and offering hands-on help. Charlotte’s eye for design unearthed treasures like an English floral sofa and rugs that now define the home’s character. Bridget and
Gail also traveled extensively to furnish the home, sourcing unique pieces like a mantel and cupboard from Fairhope, Alabama, and George III bedside chests from Houston, Texas.
An English-Inspired Christmas Wonderland
During the holidays, Couples Cottage transforms into a cozy retreat reminiscent of a traditional English Christmas. Gail carefully curates decor that harmonizes with the home’s timeless style, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The living room’s centerpiece is the fireplace, adorned with vintage hand-knit stockings, each bearing the name of their children and grandchildren. This treasured tradition began in 1951 when Gail’s Great Aunt Jessie knitted her first stocking. with Gail ensuring its continuity by
having the patterns replicated for her growing family.
A glowing Christmas tree is adorned with multicolored lights, shimmering tinsel, and ornaments steeped in sentimentality. Nativity scenes from Gail’s travels around the world and thoughtful gifts from friends add depth and meaning to the decor. Votive candles line the built-in bookshelves, which stretch from floor to ceiling with John’s law books, casting a gentle, welcoming glow. In the dining room, heirloom crystal, white china, and silver cutlery set a festive table, complemented by a floral arrangement of lilies, red blooms, and magnolia leaves designed by Oxford Floral Company.
Even the screened-in porch, a renovation addition, embraces the holiday spirit. A Christmas tree wired with tinsel is decked with silver ornaments collected by Gail over the years reflect the soft winter light, enhancing the space’s rustic zinc countertops.
A Home for Tradition, Collaboration, and Joy
From its historic roots to its exquisite design, Couples Cottage is a home meant to be shared. Whether hosting game-day festivities or celebrating the warmth of the holiday season, the Otts’ home is a reflection of enduring craftsmanship, heartfelt collaboration, and the power of meaningful connections.
As the holidays unfold, this home reminds us of the beauty of honoring the past, cherishing the present, and gathering with loved ones who make every moment special.
