Brian and Kristy McCormally viewed The Truitt House days before it was to be auctioned in 2022. Captivated by its architecture, rich history, and the charm of Suffolk’s historic southern downtown, they embraced the opportunity to become stewards of this iconic home. Now settled, they cherish their role in preserving its legacy and have never looked back.
The Truitt House, built in 1909, is a shining example of historic preservation and a reflection of the enduring charm of downtown Suffolk. Originally designed by lumber magnate George Truitt as a showpiece for the town, the home remains a stunning representation of early 20th-century craftsmanship. From the rare wood framing its doorways to the intricate Italian marble adorning its entrance, every detail of the Truitt House speaks to an era of timeless elegance.
Since purchasing the home in 2022, Brian and Kristy McCormally have embraced the task of preserving its character, bringing each room carefully into the present while honoring the home’s past. “Every inch of the home has been touched during its renovation,” Brian shares. Their careful stewardship reflects not only a love for the property but a commitment to preserving the history of downtown Suffolk. The McCormallys are intimately involved in contributing to the revival of the surrounding Main Street area.
People are also reading…
Today, the Truitt House serves as a community treasure. Open for special events and celebrations, the home provides a stunning backdrop for gatherings that highlight Suffolk’s rich heritage and blossoming future.
As the holiday season approaches, the Truitt House transforms into a magical setting. “We designed the holiday decor to be very simple,” Kristy explains. “The trees draw attention to the home’s hallmark Palladian windows and original molding. Mantles are quietly dressed with garland and the stairway with live greenery. The house is architecturally unique, so the goal during the holidays is to complement, not overshadow, the house’s innate glamour.”
The Truitt House is located on Bank Street in Historic Downtown Suffolk.
This ornamental lab welcomes all who visit.
Kristy McCormally welcomes guests to The Truitt House for the Historic Suffolk Holiday Tour. She co-chaired the tour to benefit The Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society, located in the Phillips-Dawson House across the street. Reviving the tour was a passion project for Kristy. “It was a way for us to showcase the beautiful properties of downtown Suffolk, giving guests a glimpse of what a revival of our downtown neighborhood will look like.”
The dining room is bathed in light through Palladian windows and French doors. The 14-foot ceiling makes way for the original chandelier, setting the tone for elegant entertaining.
An elegant holiday table is set with beautiful crystal and china, complemented by a simple yet stunning centerpiece of oranges in silver bowls and fresh boxwood from the garden. China is from The Globe Fine Gift & Home, Virginia Beach. Styling by Lustre Theory.
The table is set. In spring, French doors open onto the portico in the evening. A collection of landscapes hangs in the dining room.
When The McCormallys purchased The Truitt House and gave her a new look, Kristy thought a new brand was in order. Monogrammed on the napkins in the family room is the new Truitt House logo.
The family room mantle graces one of nine fireplaces. This one is the most used. A simple garland and blue velvet ribbon accent the mantle for the holidays. Tucked behind is a framed license plate #106 from 1915 found hidden in the dirt floor of the carriage house.
The family room is unique with tapestry brick framed in oak. Exterior brick walls are 18 inches thick. The antique French wall clock was the family heirloom of a dear friend. It doesn’t keep time, but the McCormallys love it anyway.
Brian McCormally, a retired lawyer, finds his favorite room in the library of The Truitt House—a space that perfectly reflects his talents and passions as a woodworker, master gardener, and art collector. Above the mantle hangs an early 1900s landscape painting commissioned by George Truitt himself.
Rich blue accents the rare curly pine woodwork, which is said to have been cut from a single tree. The horse in the painting is right at home with a petit woodland Christmas tree.
A sitting area is nestled into the bay of windows overlooking the rose garden. Doors open to the East terrace where there is a comfortable seating area and a favorite place for afternoon cocktails.
Pomanders are a family tradition. Bowls are scattered throughout the house, including these waiting in the library for daughter Darby’s visit this Christmas.
The trees are adorned with carefully curated ornaments and ribbons in a blue and white theme.
An antique tea cart stores beautifully wrapped gifts in the entry hall.
The Truitt House’s Georgian architectural features in the living room and dining room offer walk-through Palladian windows and brick terraces. The windows contain their original wavy glass and hardware.
Throughout the home, original hardware is in place — including chandeliers, crystal and brass door knobs, working transoms, and period radiators, which warm the house to this day.
The butler’s pantry is the hub of the house when guests arrive for a party. Silver pieces, new and from previous owners of The Truitt House, have been preserved with the home and are still used for entertaining.
Credits
Photography: Angela Elise
Creative direction: Kristin Shockley of Lustre Theory
Table settings: The Globe Fine Gift & Home
