From Flip to Forever
A Mid-Century Modern Renovation in Buena Vista
For Ryane Dunnagan and Matthew Tuttle, a couple who met in preschool and share a deep passion for music and design, Buena Vista has become more than just a neighborhood—it’s their forever home. Both are professional musicians—Ryane is a classically trained cellist, while Matt is an accomplished drummer and recording engineer—who also channel their creativity into real estate and home renovations. With over a dozen completed projects in the area, the couple has a knack for blending historical charm with modern functionality.
In August 2020, they moved into their current home, a 1964 Mid-Century Modern masterpiece designed by Richard "Gerald" Coghill, a former VP at Wachovia Bank. Originally, the couple planned to flip the property, but their realtor, Bethany Symmes, had other ideas, predicting they’d fall in love with it. And she was right. “The house was perfect for us in every way,” they shared, citing their love for Mid-Century Modern architecture and Buena Vista’s walkability and convenience.
Bethany has worked closely with Ryane and Matt over the years, beginning with their first flip in 2016. Together, they’ve successfully completed more than 25 transactions, building a trusted partnership. “Ryane and Matt have a great eye for design, and we love working together,” Bethany said. Now, with the formation of Symmes Byrd in 2022, Bethany and her business partner, Whitney Byrd, have continued collaborating with the couple on their projects. Their combined expertise has been instrumental in finding homes that perfectly align with Ryane and Matt’s creative vision.
The home’s history is as unique as its design. Built by Gerald and Marylynn Coghill, it was meticulously crafted with an architect’s assistance. The couple, known for hosting lively dinner parties, left behind an original blueprint, which Ryane and Matt still cherish. After the couple's passing, the house was then left to Marylynn's brother who lived out of town, so the home remained untouched until Ryane and Matt purchased it in early 2020. Ryane and Matt described the listing photos as a "Mid-Century Modern fan's dream!"
Renovating during a pandemic posed significant challenges, particularly with material shortages. However, the couple’s resourcefulness allowed them to complete the entire renovation in just six months. Their vision was clear: preserve the home’s character while introducing a curated mix of vintage and modern elements. High-gloss white and walnut furniture blend seamlessly with Persian rugs and Mid-Century Modern accents, creating a space that’s light, bright, and uniquely theirs.
Some standout features include a triangular courtyard nestled between the home’s wings, a nod to its “Y” or martini glass shape. Inside, the living room and kitchen shine as the couple’s favorite space—a remarkable transformation that even involved converting part of the former master bathroom. A custom wood-slatted wall in the bedroom and a original mural in the dining room add personal touches, while a custom wallpaper in the half-bath, designed by local artist Kat Lamp (www.katlamp.com), features whimsical drawings of their four princess-named cats.
Their advice to neighbors considering renovations? “Newer is not always better. Consider the style and history of your home before making changes,” they emphasized. For Ryane and Matt, the journey of home renovation is never-ending, but it’s a labor of love that brings joy, creativity, and a deep connection to their community.
Contact Bethany and Whitney for all of your home needs!
Bethany Symmes, Broker/Realtor
Phone: 336-971-6938
Whitney Byrd, Sales Associate/ Luxury Collection Specialist
Phone: 704-437-6471