How an unusual lot in Bibb City resulted in design inspiration for the Link family.

By Marla Caligaris - Photography by S. Saxon

Seven years ago, after having traveled through Southeast Asia and then living in the Virgin Islands and Atlanta, Columbus natives Ben and Alee Link decided it was time to root down and call Columbus home again.

When it was time to build their dream home on the banks of the Chattahoochee in Bibb City, Alee and Ben called upon builder Johnny Cargill, Architect Jack Jenkins, and Interior Designer Beth Beaudoin of B-Line Studio. For Beth, this was the third project she collaborated on with the Links. The first was Bare Roots Restaurant for Ben, and the second was River Flow Yoga & Wellness for Alee.

What made this project so special for all those involved was that every single thing in the home was done with intention. Every single knob, paint color, tile, etc. holds a specific energy they as a family want to feel when they’re at home. There is something so sacred and divine about starting from scratch, birthing something, growing something. Alee never thought that building a home would be their journey because she lives for history and character. However, thanks to designer Beth Beaudoin, builder Johnny Cargill and Architect Jack Jenkins, their dreams of birthing something brand new, but with richness and character were made possible.

Alee and Ben’s modern farmhouse was completed in June of 2020 and feature three bedrooms and three bathrooms with an unfinished basement which will eventually serve as a fourth bedroom/bathroom. All the wood used in the home shelves, railing, kitchen island, and mantel is literally from the Chattahoochee River herself. Jim Flournoy, from Prattville, Al, scuba dives for the reclaimed wood and artifacts in the river and repurposes them in order to breathe new life into the treasure beneath the surface. “Our city holds such rich and fascinating history and we can feel it evolving and coming to life every time we gather around our kitchen island. When you touch this old wood, you truly feel its life and electricity." - Alee Link.

Living in front of the river and having the Riverwalk right outside their front door allows the Links and their two children Willow and Kai ages six and four to take long walks, ride bikes, roller skate, and skateboard amongst such a beautiful landscape. They are also huge supporters and lovers of the arts. And for Alee, who is a teacher and owner of River Flow Yoga & Wellness work is now just a short bike ride away!

AHEAD OF THE CURVE