Built in 1909, the Truitt House is a testament to the importance of sustainable historic preservation and an ode to the elegance that the town of Suffolk continues to embody.
The House & Gardens
The Truitt House Edit
Come with us as we tell meaningful stories of preservation and restoration, explore Suffolk's rich history, and share favorite entertaining and culinary experiences at The Truitt House.
Marrying history with something new
Now owned and resided in by the McCormally family, the Truitt House continues on as a significant landmark, with thoughtful and respectful updates being made to its gardens, carriage house, and interior that are all deeply reminiscent of days gone by. The 8,500 sq-ft masterpiece remains a hidden gem selflessly guarding its place of prominence just off Main Street and restored to its former glory by noted architect Seth Ballard of Ballard + Mensua Architecture with nothing to equal its classic scale anywhere in Virginia. Gatherings are still hosted there, with the promise that there are still many memorable parties and events yet to be experienced within its lovely walls. Marrying history with something new that can be used and enjoyed is never an easy task, but the Truitt House is a testament to the importance of sustainable historic preservation and an ode to the elegance that the town of Suffolk continues to embody.
Noteworthy Details
The Truitt House is adorned with enchanting details in each room. A few of our personal favorites include:
Freestanding staircase
Stunning mahogany stairs float between the three floors of the mansion’s elegant entry hall. The fifty-four stairs provide a gentle rise and deep tread, and are softened by spacious landings on each floor. The staircase is said to be the longest freestanding model in a residence in all of Virginia.
Marble entryway
Italian marble is featured both indoors and out. This marble door surround is infused with the beauty of Corinthian columns and intricately engraved period patterns. Compass rose mosaic floors adorn the vestibule and entryway with a luxe marble porch, surrounds and pathways further elevating the property.
Curly pine library
The library features elusive curly heart pine wood. Truitt is said to have had the wood cut from a single tree. The library’s floor, door, fireplace surround, and paneling are made of this rare species. It features extremely curly burled grain and a luminous vibrant color.
“The Truitt House is proof that when it comes to historic preservation, there’s always hope.”
— Suffolk Historical Society
Always at The Truitt House
Coffee, cake, cocktails, and plenty of time for good friends and slow conversation.
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A Note from the McCormallys
Our goal was to embrace The Truitt House by living in a way that’s unique to us - while still embracing the history.
It’s been hard work and we’ve made amazing friends and worked with fabulous craftsmen along the way. It’s finally starting to feel like home.
We are proud to preserve and care for this beautiful home, to be part of this historical community and celebrate the promise of downtown Suffolk.
Magazines, newsletters, cookbooks and apps…there’s so much out there these days to keep dinner fresh and motivate us to cook. Sure, we all have our go to casseroles or “burgers,” but I love to try something new.
We’ve all been there - It’s the recipe that looks so good, you find yourself searching for the car keys to go shopping while visions of the table setting are spinning around in your head. I was probably hungry when I read it too.
Yesterday, the New York Times shared a winner. They had me at Grilled Chicken with Charred-Scallion Chimichurri.