Light hearted: the design of a traditionally styled Jackson home is guided by the residents' desire for airy spaces and calming colors.

This grand Gallic-flavored residence looks as if it has been around for centuries, but it is barely a decade old. Built on a lot formerly occupied by a dated 1960s-style house, it takes full advantage of its breathtaking waterfront views.

The Eastover neighborhood of northeast Jackson has long been a sought-after dwelling place for locals. While many of the finest older homes still hold pride of place, there has been an interesting crop of newer construction on sites formerly occupied by less desirable structures. It was only a matter of time before these earlier buildings were replaced by more elegant showplaces like this one.

Set upon a jewel-like manicured lawn, the sprawling biscuit-colored stucco house is home to a couple with a large blended family, so it was designed with plenty of room for their children in mind. The family loves to travel and has spent much time in France and Italy collecting the furniture, appointments, and paintings that grace the airy rooms.

Jackson designer Michael Grogan was the presiding genius over the interior spaces, although, in his characteristically generous manner, he quickly turns the praise to the homeowners.

"These clients, and especially the wife, have the rare gift of knowing exactly what they want and how to convey it clearly," he says. "She is a quick study and extremely bright. This project was a total pleasure."