Past Forward

When Adkins inherited her family’s nineteenth-century Greek Revival Alabama farmhouse—lived in by five generations of her family and listed on the National Register of Historic Places—it became the canvas for her singular eye. A gifted collector and beloved figure in the design industry for her antiques store, Black Sheep, Adkins revitalized the house, gardens, and grounds over the ensuing decades, leaning on her deep appreciation for thoughtful historic preservation and Southern decor. Every room reflects Adkins’s instinct for artful interiors: heart pine floors underfoot, patinated finishes on storied antiques, flower arrangements foraged from the grounds, and everyday objects curated with connoisseurship. Layered vignettes, rustic textiles, and heirloom pieces elevated to the status of art create interiors that feel both collected and deeply personal. A powerful sense of place pervades the surrounding landscape as well, where seasonal color, historic plantings, thoughtful outdoor rooms, and a new summer house enrich the property’s character. Throughout the book, Adkins shares insight into the rhythms of gracious Southern living—from porch sitting to receiving guests to collecting with intention. Illustrated with beautifully moody photography by Hector Sanchez, the resulting book is a moving story of a family house shaped by time, narrative, and the woman who cared for it.

We accept returns for store credit or exchange for most items within 7 days of purchase. For online orders, the return window is 7 days from the day the customer receives the return label. Items must be unused, in original condition, and in original packaging and tags, as well as accompanied by a receipt.

Non returnable items:
Furniture
Artwork
Custom or special orders
Skincare and beauty products
Sale items
Swimwear

To start a return, log in to your account on our website by selecting the “Account” icon or using your order email link. Once logged in, find your order under Order History, select the item(s) you wish to return, and click “Request Return.” You will receive return instructions and a shipping label if your return is approved.

Customers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the item arrives damaged or incorrect. For full details, please see our Return Policy page.

Orders ship from our Nantucket shop via UPS or FedEx within 1–2 business days of payment.​
Economy shipping typically arrives within 5–8 business days, and Standard shipping within 3–4 business days within the continental U.S.​
We currently ship to U.S. addresses only and cannot deliver to PO Boxes or APO/FPO addresses.​
Delivery timelines are estimates and may be affected by carrier delays, weather, or holidays. For full details, please see our Shipping Policy page.