Celebrating Spring

Story & Event Design by Ginni Jones | Photography by Annabella Charles

The Scene:  Since outdoor festivities are just now starting to happen again—how about lunch in the nursery at Millstone? Everyone needs a little fresh air these days so the nursery and greenhouse were the perfect location for this luncheon. Overflowing with green and blooming plants, it was a stunning backdrop to set the scene. 

The Setting: The table was set with all the best. From a beautiful mix of hand-painted Herend china to pastel mint and blush martini glasses by Estelle Colored Glass, the table was nothing short of spring soiree ready! But the real star of the show was the centerpiece, the silver Milan three-tier display from White Door Events, filled with lush green and blooming plants in aged terra cotta pots from the nursery. Tricia Hunt, owner of Millstone Marketplace, even provided some of her fresh-cut tulips to top off the lush spring look. Above the centerpiece, Patra and Hera Pendants chandeliers from White Door brought the vignette to full scale, completing the feast for the eyes to go along with the delicious meal. The pendants added a beautiful mix of natural woven and aged metal materials. Not to be missed from the tablescape were White Door’s adorable Dina mini lamps—cordless yet powerful, providing enough light to highlight the table. Table linens and chairs were also sourced from White Door. The Faux Bois chairs provided the perfect touch of garden chic to sit in while being surrounded by the greenhouse plants.

In addition to the gorgeous table, a lovely lounge section gave guests a spot to relax while enjoying desserts. The light blue and corals of the Tristan sofa and Persimmon dot pillows were the perfect addition to all the green around the venue. White and ivory velvet Neely chairs, paired with teal dot pillows, gave the perfect vibrant pop, balancing out all the colors involved. And last, but certainly not least, the power of accent tables: no lounge section is complete without them. The gold Bali side tables and Berlin coffee table brought a much-needed metallic shine to the scene.

The Sweets: 17 Berkshire’s new spring menu was perfect for the lunch. The mix of all the springtime flavors owner Nuha Abuduhair creates is magic! To-die-for desserts included Lemon Lavender Entremet, layers of soft lemon cake with lavender creme, topped with a candied lemon wedge and a lavender macaron; Hummingbird Cake, sweet spice cake layered with cream cheese mousse with white chocolate ganache; the Grapefruit Rose Tart, a delicate grapefruit curd infused with a touch of rose water; the Rosie, rose water mousse with a tart raspberry center; Opera Cake, joconde soaked in espresso and layered with chocolate ganache and espresso buttercream; and finally, the Bavarian Eclair, a vanilla bean cream stuffed eclair, simple and delicious. For the dessert table, Laura Park Designs paper plates and cocktail napkins the brightest patterns added a fun accent. These new designer paper plates and matching napkins make any picnic more extravagant and beautiful. 

The Style: After over a year without events & dressing to the nines, now every occasion calls for a fresh, new outfit - and this luncheon was no exception! Oak Hall was the perfect stop for all things Spring. Whether it was a flirty maxi dress or bright spring top, their women’s department was overflowing with an array of bright colorful options to start off Spring on the right foot. Also available at Oak Hall is the local handbag line J LOWERY, their new spring collection has just hit the shelves and is sure to be a sell out! All your favorite bags, in fresh pastel colors and textures - feathers were even spotted, how fun!  

Trusting the Vision

Design by Lindsey Black Interiors | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Sélavie Photography

When Kayla and Nick Arcuri bought their Jackson, TN, home they knew they’d need to do some major decorating. Being cultured, educated people, they set out to find the perfect furnishings for their new abode on their own. 

After a series of missteps and a lot of stress, the couple found themselves completely frustrated. “I was having difficulty picking things that made sense,” Kayla recalls. “We brought home several items and none of them worked for the house. It was driving us up the wall!” With a baby, a toddler and two careers, the busy couple decided it was time to call in a professional.

So they started their search for help using social media, a resource that might seem a bit unconventional to some. But, as interior designer Lindsey Black puts it, “I’m not your mother’s decorator.” The owner of Memphis-based Lindsey Black Interiors says many of her clients find her through her Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook posts.

Once the clients and designer connected, plans began to make the home beautiful and functional and to customize it to fit the Arcuris’ unique needs. Built in the mid 90s, the brick Georgian received a major modernization from its previous owners. The result is an open-concept living area that includes the entryway, living room, dining room and kitchen. Black says her task was to bring color and interest into the wide-open spaces and make them feel polished yet still homey and practical for a family with children and dogs. She describes her design aesthetic for the project as “modern mix.” 

To achieve the look Black started in the living room, a cavernous area with soaring ceilings with clerestory windows flanking a fireplace. She cozied up the space by removing oversized white built-in cabinets, the kind used to house large stereo equipment in the era in which the home was built, and adding scaled-down natural wood shelves in their place. A custom painting by New Orleans artist Sarah Ella Cole tops the mantel, helping to define boundaries.  After visually reducing the area to a more manageable size, Black filled it with comfortable upholstered pieces in neutral tones. Performance fabrics prevent worries over spills and other child-related mishaps. A pair of armchairs brought from the Arcuris’ previous home blends in seamlessly and two Noir Furniture coffee tables echo the natural wood look of the shelves. “Because the room is so big, I wanted to use two coffee tables. That way every seat in the room has access to a spot,” she explains. Their separated placement keeps the tables from looking too heavy and their natural construction makes them match, but not match,” she explains.

Two nondescript ceiling fans that formerly hung in the living room didn’t do the space justice. In their place Black chose a Visual Comfort modern chandelier that is part light fixture, part work of art. Says the designer, “I knew that whatever we put there had to be large in scale—that’s a huge vertical space—and really unique and impactful. I love how sculptural it is and also that it’s uplighting so it’s not harsh when it’s turned on.

The adjacent dining room also packs a visual punch thanks to one starring piece and several supporting design elements curated by Black. A huge custom cabinet built by Byler Craft in Whiteville, TN, lines one wall, anchoring the space beautifully and providing a worthy home for Nick’s extensive bourbon collection. Coordinating heron prints on the room’s back wall bring a dramatic element. Black and her project manager Mary Katherine Harris sourced the prints from market in High Point, NC, on one of their semi-annual buying trips. The art was so striking they knew they’d find the perfect spot for it in a client’s home eventually, and the Arcuris are the happy recipients. Kayla says they are among her favorite parts of Black’s design. “They just fill me with joy when I look at them.”

Entertaining will be a priority for the homeowners in the post-pandemic era, so they told Black they wanted a dining table that would comfortably seat 10. She delivered with a simple double-pedestal design surrounded by eight neutral side chairs and a pair of end chairs upholstered in fabrics that add interest and a nod to mid-century modern. To provide ample lighting over the expansive table Black chose two black and white chandeliers. They fit the bill perfectly, shedding plenty of light without overpowering the room’s other features.

“Our big three must-haves were function—something we could live in—a nice dining room we could entertain in, and a place for the bourbon to live and be celebrated.”

—Homeowner Kayla Arcuri

The Arcuris were happy with the clean, white-on-white look of their kitchen, but a seemingly small design element Black added makes a big splash. The large kitchen window looked a bit bare so the designer brought in a Roman shade in a John Derian Designers Guild fabric that adds a pop of color to the kitchen. The textile also inspired Black’s accessory choices for the living room. She repeated the stunning bird print on throw pillows and pulled from its tones for other accents. 

“Function is very important to me. I try to weigh form and function equally. If you put enough thought into it, you can always find something that checks both those boxes.”

—Designer Lindsey Black

While bright white walls make the rest of the house feel light and airy, the master bedroom is a soothing cocoon of saturated color. Black selected grasscloth wallpaper in a deep slate blue to bring texture and tone to the space. “The clients like color, but because every other room is essentially connected and was white, the bedroom was the logical spot to bring it in, to have a really bold moment on the walls,” she explains. 

Custom drapes in a Thibaut leaf print set a light/dark palette that’s repeated in the furniture, bedding and rug. Palacek rattan and rope sconces, another treasure sourced from High Point, bring an additional natural material into play. Black says she’s a big fan of the lights for more than just their good looks: not only do the wall-mounted sconces free up space on nightstands, their height is infinitely adjustable thanks to the knotted rope design.

“I love a moody master bedroom. Given a choice I’m always going to go darker.”

—Designer Lindsey Black

Kayla couldn’t be happier with the dramatic tone of her master bedroom. “I feel like when I get into bed at night I am so cozy and relaxed. It’s just such a nice place to be.”

As much as she loves the bedroom, the homeowner is also thrilled with the way the whole project turned out. Black agrees that the project was a rousing success and attributes that to the fact that the clients were willing to totally hand the design reins over to a professional. She says, “They really trusted my vision. Even when they were initially a little on the fence about something they made the decision to trust me. I think the projects that turn out the best are always the ones where the client isn’t over analyzing every little detail. They have to remember that’s why they hired me, to know how it’s going to work together, and trust that the end result is going to be amazing. They did an excellent job of that.”

Outdoor Oasis

Design by Cindy McCord | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Ross Group Creative

Outdoor living is a trend that has steadily gained popularity recently, but the unique situation of the past year, with its stay-at-home mandates and the lower risk of disease transmission outdoors, has placed more emphasis than ever on the importance of beautiful, practical alfresco areas.

We sat down with Cindy McCord, owner of Cindy McCord Design, and her client, a Germantown homeowner whose backyard has been her family’s haven, to talk about what takes an outdoor space from routine to remarkable.

At Home Memphis & Mid South: When you built this house in 2018 did you have a plan for the backyard?

Homeowner: Yes! The architecture of the house is U-shaped around the courtyard so lots of windows face the backyard. We wanted to take advantage of the views of what we thought was a beautiful lot with lots of trees. 

Cindy McCord: The backdrop is fabulous with all those trees!

Homeowner: We wanted different areas to gather—sunny areas by the pool and also more shaded areas for dining. And we loved the concept of a screen porch that we could use three or even four seasons of the year, depending on the weather. Our thought was that we wanted to be able to get together with family and friends in different areas at different times of year, and during COVID we really did. We moved furniture out of the screened area and we moved our outdoor dining table into the porch at different times so we could accommodate larger groups safely. We’ll do that beyond COVID because it’s a fun way to use that space; we’re able to adapt it easily by just moving some things around.

AHMMS: What features maximize the screened-in porch’s flexibility of use?

Cindy McCord: We installed heaters and fans on the screen porch ceiling and gave the outdoor room a beautiful fireplace covered in the same stone we used on the fireplace inside the house. We also had retractable screens put in so the homeowners can raise or lower them as the weather dictates.

AHMMS: What drove your design choices for the outdoor room?

Cindy McCord: Definitely nature. We went more neutral to enhance the green of the surroundings. We didn’t want to put a lot of color in the room; we kept everything natural to keep the emphasis on the beauty of the landscape. We chose a light fixture with a fabric drum shade to make the room warm and inviting. The big square coffee table is actually two rectangular table grouped together. It’s practical because if you need to separate them and use them in other ways you have that option. 

AHMMS: Was the pool on your original list of backyard must-haves?

Homeowner: We definitely wanted the pool and a water feature as part of the pool. Jay R. West Pools did the pool. While the house was under construction Jay and I walked the lot many times to get an idea of exactly where the pool should be placed. Jay also had great ideas about the finishes. We chose ice blue flagstone for the decking so it wouldn’t get too hot in the summer, but the water feature has sandstone, so it’s a nice blend of cool and warm tone

AHMMS: Was a firepit a feature you knew you wanted from the start?

Homeowner: Absolutely. The idea of having a natural wood pit with a gas starter really appealed to us. And we knew we wanted it in a position where it was further back so smoke wouldn’t be coming towards the house. We ended up putting it in a back corner area, which I think is fun. Our homebuilder, Thomas Wirth, gave us the idea to build benches around it, which made it a fun conversation area to have fires by.

“I love the outdoors. I grew up camping; that’s how we vacationed. The outdoors was our playground and I feel the same way about our home. It’s God’s beautiful playground and we get to enjoy and take in the beauty of His creation. To be outside to me is just the biggest blessing.” —Homeowner

 AHMMS: What part of the backyard do you and your family use the most?

Homeowner: We congregate according to the number we have and shade or sun or temperature. If it’s just the two of us having a glass of wine we may be seated in the two chairs that face the pool. If there’s four of us we might be around the round table having a meal. Thanksgiving evening we sat in the screen porch and watched a movie with the fireplace going

AHMMS: Who else had a hand in making your backyard such a showplace?

Homeowner: Johnny Deniston and his company, Agriscapes, designed and installed the landscaping. They did such a great job. I especially love the area between the back door and the pool, where he placed stone pads surrounded by grass borders. It combines two elements, organic and stone, and keeps the area from being just a huge expanse of concrete. 

Audio Video Artistry (AVA) installed speakers in the screen porch and all around the yard. It’s so relaxing to be able to sit anywhere and enjoy music.

Michelle Bolton and Margaux Bartosch of June Wren Flowers are responsible for the beautiful color that we have in the backyard and also in the front of our home. Michelle has a great eye for color and flowers. She loves to walk the property with me and talk about colors. I look to her for inspiration; she just has such a knack for bringing out beauty in flowers and plants.

AHMMS: If you had to sum up the appeal of this backyard in a sentence what would you say?

Cindy McCord: They have so many conversation areas—it’s great for entertaining.

Homeowner: It’s nice to have a spot for everything.

The Evolution of a Home

Design by Parker Design Studio | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Annabella Charles

Designer Ann Parker helps an Eads couple adapt their beloved family home to suit their new stage of life.

When Beth and David Skudder built their home in Eads in 2003, they customized it to perfectly fill the needs of a family with three school-age children. The Skudders loved to entertain, and they had plenty of room for large-scale events. Beth recalls, “I had luaus, I had prom parties, I had homecoming parties. I had game dinners. I had school functions. It was great—lots of life in the house.” As the years went by, the children grew up and flew the nest, leaving their parents to figure out how the two of them could best use the house on their own. 

David recently suggested that master bath needed an update, and Beth jumped right on the idea. She enlisted the help of Ann Parker, owner of Parker Design Studio, to brighten up the space.

And, as is so often the case with home renovations, a small project snowballed into a redo that encompassed almost every room in the home, along with a screened porch. The Skudders had worked with Parker on several previous design projects, so Beth trusted her implicitly. “There were two things I wanted in this house from the beginning and again in the renovation. Every space had to be useful and the design had to be timeless. Ann helped me so much with that. There’s not one room in the house we don’t use. And I feel like the design will definitely hold up over time

Parker says one of the main goals of the renovation was to freshen the home while still respecting its original design. “It was really important to stay true to the architecture of the house and not turn it into an alien just to update it,” she recalls. “It was about being very sensitive to what was already here while adding updated features.”

What was already there was a houseful of custom features with materials and furnishings both made by local artisans and brought in from far and wide. The original design team, architect Carson Looney of LRK and designer Julie Nicholson, helped the Skudders source distinctive elements including salvaged barn wood from Canada, antique light fixtures from New Orleans, French antique furnishings and large steel windows. Memphis metal sculptor Brian Russell created a stair rail that features balusters shaped like stalks of wheat and a stunning bronze head of wheat for a newel post, a nod to David’s career as a commodities trader. 

Parker embraced the opportunity to incorporate some of the Skudders’ existing pieces into her redesign. She says, “We reassembled the details without going too far.” She and Beth went from room to room assessing which of the pieces Beth most loved. Those favorites stayed, often with new upholstery or in a different location. The designer notes that often all it takes to revitalize a space is a new light fixture, a fresh coat of paint, a little wallpaper or some cabinet hardware. A small “tweak” can make a big difference.

Beth was ready for a change in her kitchen. She loves to cook and was happy with the flow of the space, but wanted to update the original green furniture-style cabinets and rework the island. She wasn’t interested in buying into the popular trend of having white walls, cabinets and countertops, however. “This house has been too custom from the beginning to all of the sudden make the kitchen generic,” she says. Parker agreed. The new look seamlessly blends the kitchen’s brick wall and wood beams with a handsome island, painted cabinets that are sleek and sophisticated, and pendant-style lantern lights with a decidedly modern flair. 

The adjacent family room went from European traditional, completely furnished in antiques, to a more contemporary blend of classic pieces with new additions and reworked favorites. Parker continued with that aesthetic into the home’s central hall, where a pair of antique needlepoint chairs flank a modern painting by local artist Hamlett Dobbins. The Skudders added several pieces from David Lusk Gallery to their art collection as part of the renovation, including a commission by Tad Lauritzen Wright. The artful anagram contains 29 words related to commodities.

Parker brought in art consultant Anna Wunderlich to maximize the impact of the family’s art collection. Beth remembers, “We literally took every piece of art off the walls and repurposed every single piece throughout the house. It gave everything a new life. I felt like I had new art because it was all in new places.”

The designer’s “keep-what-you-love, change-the-rest” plan applied to the dining room, as well. The homeowners have always enjoyed entertaining around the large round table in their square-shaped dining room. They no longer loved the gold-leafed ceiling or the upholstery on the dining chairs, though. Parker had the ceiling painted in a quieter tone, reupholstered the chairs, brought in an oversized mirror antiqued by local framer Chris Garner, placed art over the mirror for drama, and added gorgeous silk drapes to give the room a feel that’s altogether different from before, but still in keeping with the home’s character.

The master bedroom’s original faux finished walls received a new look thanks to several coats of paint. Parker freshened up the decor in the room with a new upholstered headboard, bedside tables, window treatments and art, giving it perhaps the most major facelift of any area of the home. In the master bath, “where it all started,” according to Beth, there’s the new shower tile David suggested, along with newly painted cabinets, new hardware, countertops, sinks and faucets. The family eschewed trends here, too: Beth had a freestanding tub, so popular in bathroom remodels at the moment, removed. “It just wasn’t functional,” she explains. In its place Parker installed a built-in tub with a granite deck.

With Parker’s help, the Skudders now have a home that’s evolved to fit their current needs—the upstairs renovations even included reworking part of the guest room into a nursery nook for their year-old grandson. But even though the house is now much more suited to the couple’s current lifestyle, their relationship with the designer isn’t winding down. “We love a project,” Beth says. “We truly enjoy the whole process and I’m looking forward to working on more projects with Ann in the future.” 

Well Thought Out

Design by Hyde Design & Renovation | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Steve Roberts

When it came to renovating their High Point Terrace home, Catherine and Ian Hyde were as focused on the process as much as the end result. The couple undertook the project as a personal journey that was to be relished.

To say that the classic 1940s-era cottage was neglected when they bought it would be an understatement. The front yard was so overgrown that the house was barely visible from the street, and the structure itself was “borderline uninhabitable,” as Catherine recalls. The young husband and wife went to work immediately to restore the home and add their personal stamp. While some might find such a large-scale restoration daunting, it was right in Catherine’s wheelhouse as the owner of Hyde Design & Renovation, a design-and-build company that delivers turnkey projects.

BEFORE

The order in which they renovated was a bit unconventional, but, like every aspect of the journey, it was intentional. Soon after they closed on the property Catherine decided to paint the exterior shutters, a task most contractors would wait to do until much later. It was important to her, though, to have a cheerful element to see in the midst of the disarray of demolition/construction, a preview of the finished product. She applies this concept to Hyde Design projects regularly now. “You need something that gives you that immediate satisfaction, that feeling that it’s all going to be okay,” she says, recalling how, when she felt bogged down during the remodel, all it took to reassure her was a look at the freshly painted shutters.

The couple wanted to bring the house into the modern era while retaining its vintage character. To that end, they decided to leave the wall between the kitchen and living room intact rather than completely opening the floor plan. “I like the journey when you come in and you have a surprise,” Catherine says. And the completely reimagined kitchen is a lovely surprise. Changing the layout was a must-do, explains Ian, as the floor plan before necessitated moving the refrigerator before the dishwasher door could fully open. Every inch of the space is functional now, with clean, simple style and plenty of space for work and storage—much sought-after features in the small-scale kitchens found in older homes.

Part of the redo involved relocating the washer and dryer out of the kitchen, and the space the Hydes added to accommodate laundry is a perfect fit for their lifestyle. Both Catherine and Ian are marathon runners, and when they come home from a run, they can access both laundry and a shower directly inside the back door. The roomy walk-in shower also comes in handy when their best friend, a goldendoodle named Addie, needs a quick bath. 

Just off the kitchen and back entrance, Catherine’s office is an efficient and personal workspace. She replaced two awkward closet doors with sliding barn-style closures to maximize usable area and furnished the room with a mix of locally sourced furniture, refinished pieces from family, and items she and Ian made themselves. Ian is an accomplished woodworker whose creations grace the entire house, from the headboard in the master bedroom to the custom bench and sofa table in the living room to the handsome built-in corner cabinets in the dining room.

While the Hydes’ decor includes a variety of natural wooden elements, their love for organic materials in design goes beyond the use of wood. The house is filled with plants that function not only as decorative accents; the greenery serves a practical purpose, as well. Catherine has placed huge fiddle-leaf figs, many of which she grew from seedlings, strategically near windows to provide privacy. Outside a guest bedroom a window box is planted with jasmine trained to grow straight up. The natural green screen still allows light to fill the room and eliminates the need for heavy curtains. 

 The home’s dated bathroom received a major facelift. Catherine achieved that by taking out impractical storage bins and replacing them with custom built-in cabinets. Classic white subway tile walls pair perfectly with gray hex tiles on the floor and fixtures that are modern with a nod to the home’s original era. She even specified the location of the mix valves for the showers after careful thought. Because she wanted the shower or bath experience to be an enjoyable way to start or wind down a day, she specified that the controls be put on the wall away from the shower head so they can be adjusted without having to step into cold spray. 

That level of thought goes into every project Catherine undertakes in her business, as well. She starts the design process by trying to understand each client’s personal taste and lifestyle. “We need to know how our clients function day to day,” she says, noting that this sometimes surprises customers who are anxious to get right down to the business of selecting paint colors and furnishings. Taking a slower, more thoughtful approach pays off ultimately, though, with a uniquely personalized finished product. “The more I get to know a client and what they need and their spaces, that will bring the finishes naturally.”

“We really do strive to create holistic, natural spaces and make it less about what you see on Pinterest or Instagram, because that can be discouraging, overwhelming,” she says. “It’s more about how your space is going to make you feel as opposed to what somebody else is doing. Well-designed spaces don’t rely on things or brands to make them beautiful or complete.”

Catherine adds that she not only tries to create homes that will lift clients up, she also seeks to make the actual construction process a positive experience. “It's easy [for clients] to get bogged down, so we have a very particular way that we construct and it's different from a lot of other contractors in the area,” she says. “We try to make it a calm and easily understandable process so that when it's done they don’t feel like they've just been worn out, worn down, and that their bank account has been worn down. We want them to look back on the journey as a positive experience and to feel that the end result is the space they desired.”

Well thought out, indeed. 

Old House, New Life

Remodeling by RKA Construction | Story by Terri Glazer | Photos by Stefanie Rawlinson

Memphis artist Hank Gray and his wife breathe new life into a neglected mid-century modern.

The distinctive modern-style house sat uninhabited on a quiet East Memphis cove for years. Someone had purchased the property, had even had renovation plans drawn, but never did the work and never lived in the home.

The future didn’t seem bright for the Bauhaus-inspired structure, designed in the early 1970s by Bill Nixon, now partner emeritus at ANF Architects. That is, until the right buyers came along. Artist Hank Gray, his wife Katherine and their two young daughters had just moved home to Memphis after a stint in Dallas, and were on the search for their next home. 

“We've always been drawn to mid-century modern architecture,” says Katherine, “but this renovation was going to be a huge project.” The fact that the original architect, Nixon, is a friend of the family tipped the scales in the house’s favor, though. “It made us feel like it was meant to be,” says Hank.

The Grays received the previous owners’ renovation drawings as part of the house purchase, but soon decided to move the renovation in a different direction in the interest of preserving as much of Nixon’s minimalist creation as possible. “They were really going to modernize it, kind of, to the point where it just didn't feel like the same house. They were going to raise the roof, but it just wasn't going to be feasible. This is how the home was built,” Katherine explains.

Once the Grays decided to create their own version of the remodel plan, they brought RKA Construction on board to make it a reality. RKA project manager Hunter Cooper oversaw the work. Demolition started in August 2018 and the family moved in about 10 months later.

Nestled into a hillside, the house sits back from the street. Nixon’s original drawings called for a bridge over a low-lying section of the front yard leading to the front door. Although the bridge has yet to be built in the home’s half-century history, the Grays love the idea and hope to find a way to work it into the landscape eventually.

Just inside the front door is a roomy and bright entryway that showcases one of Hank’s large abstract paintings perfectly. The foyer leads to the home’s heart—the combination family room and kitchen. The Grays’ renovation plan included removing walls replacing existing windows with the largest ones possible. The new floor-to-ceiling panes allow light to fill the room, even on a gloomy day, and provide views of the home’s distinctive courtyard and pool area.

Renovations in the kitchen were extensive and included expanding it, taking in the former laundry room and creating a scullery area behind the range wall. Flooring was a challenge the homeowners and Cooper overcame with a solution that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. When the Grays bought the house the kitchen floor was slate squares. Once those were removed workers found brick underneath. Removing the brick was cost prohibitive, and installing tile over the top would have made the floors too high. The answer? Cover the brick with a thin layer of concrete. Katherine says she couldn’t be happier with its looks, durability and ease of cleaning.

The lack of a space to put a kitchen table presented another quandary. The Grays opted instead for an extension to the kitchen island with a stunning waterfall effect and plenty of room for their family of four to enjoy a meal together.

Both Katherine and Hank enjoy cooking, and their gourmet kitchen suits them perfectly. A large refrigerator and freezer, commercial grade cooktop, double ovens and generous amount of pantry space in the scullery allow them to whip up their specialities, including Hank’s duck enchiladas, with ease. 

The home’s living areas underwent major renovations, as well. The Grays loved the original two-sided fireplace that separates the large den/dining room from a smaller, more formal space, but not the fieldstone treatment that covered it. Now finished in sleek white, the fireplace gives the room a much more sophisticated vibe, the perfect backdrop for the couple’s large collection of contemporary art. Along with Hank’s originals, works by Jeri Ledbetter, Mary Sims, Adam Geary and Ted Faiers grace the walls.

The floors were a happy surprise found during renovation. Existing pine flooring was warped and unusable, but underneath was original solid wood parquet in an intricate geometric pattern. Katherine loved the same floor that was in another room in the house and still remembers her excitement when Cooper texted her a photo of the unique flooring when workers discovered it in the living room.

Full-height windows across an entire wall of the area provide views of the tree-filled side yard, a sight Katherine particularly loves in the spring and fall when the colors of nature are at their finest. 

The master suite received a total overhaul, especially the master bath. Its design, featuring clean lines, rich woods and muted gold accents, evokes a peaceful vibe, but the installation induced more than a little stress for Katherine. An oversized glass panel separates the shower from the rest of the room. So oversized, in fact, that the installer told the Grays it was the largest single piece of glass he’d ever worked with. So oversized that the plumbing fixtures for the free-standing tub nearby had to be removed to put it in place.

Being built into a hill, the home has a large downstairs level, which also underwent extensive renovation to suit the needs of an artist and his family. The only square footage added to the residence in the project is a studio for Hank. It sits adjacent to the Gray girls’ playroom, largely the domain of the younger sister. The nine-year-old has inherited her father’s creative penchant and turned the space into a workroom where she loves to sew; hats and dog blankets are her specialty.

Bringing the long-empty house back to being not only an architectural and design showplace, but also a comfortable family home, was a labor of love for Katherine, who made all the design decisions for the project while also serving as a senior vice president at Independent Bank. She also had to spend time convincing her husband that the project was not only doable, but that it was right for them. A self-admitted doubter at the onset, Hank says he eventually came on board. “I'm glad we did it,” he says. “I love the architecture itself. I love the style of the home and I love that it was done by a Memphis architect.”

Galentine's Day with 17 Berkshire

Styling and Story by Nuha Abuduhair of 17 Berkshire | Photography by Annabella Charles

Like so many other women, I have always adored the over-the-top, Marie Antoinette approach to get togethers. While pandemic safety precautions are in place, I think it's even more important to enjoy the little things. Valentine’s Day is coming up, but I think I speak for a large number of people when I say the true fun is on Galentine’s Day. 

What do you get when you and your squad pod have been socially distancing and are up for some fun? An over-the-top Galentine’s Day fête. Treat yourself and your “ride or dies” to an assortment of macarons, chocolates, teas and more this Galentine’s Day.

Don’t miss 17 Berkshire's annual Galentine’s Day celebration, set for Sat., Feb. 6. The shop’s staff will be taking precautions to keep it Covid-safe. The Valentine's Day menu will be available to pre-order/purchase online or in-store.  

Pastries: 17 Berkshire, @17berkshire

Wardrobe: Shelby Jewel, @shopshelbyjewel

Stationery: Ellywise Studios, @ellywisestudios

Florals: Pampas & Floral @pampasnfloral

Model: Yamile Iskeif, @yamiiskeif

Model:Caitlin McGill, @caitlinmcgill

Menu

Love Platter: Assortment of macarons, cookies, marshmallows and more

Heart Box of Chocolates

Assorted Cupcakes

Jumbo Macarons

“All the Frills” Cake

Assorted pastries and teas

17 Berkshire | 2094 Trimble Place Memphis, TN 38104 | 901.729.7916 | 17berkshire.com | Instagram @17berkshire 

A House Becomes A Home

Interior Design by Leigh Dill Interiors | Story by Terri Glazer | Photos by Sélavie Photography

If a house becomes a home when it is a reflection of the people who live in it, then the house where Drs. Amna Khattak and Haris Zafarullah and their two daughters live is a home in the truest sense. With help from local interior designer Leigh Dill, the couple filled their residence with things that tell their story and reflect their culture. Dill says the project is a testament to the concept that when you collect things you love, they will eventually all work together to create a complete look.

A Memphis resident since 2005, Khattak has amassed quite a collection of artwork, textiles and rugs from her native Pakistan, along with pieces acquired during many vacations abroad with her husband. 

The couple decided to move from their Harbor Town home a few years ago to be closer to their children’s school and activities. After much searching they found nothing to perfectly suit their needs, so they purchased a lot in an East Memphis neighborhood and set about building their dream home.

Khattak’s vision for her house was that of a transitional style Mediterranean with a terracotta roof, stucco walls, arched entryways and a courtyard. The interior of the house had to have a calming effect. Also on her list of must-haves was a floor plan that was family friendly, but conducive to entertaining, as well. Architect Doug Enoch delivered a design that checked all the boxes, and contractor Eddie Kircher brought Enoch’s creation to reality. Dill came on board partway through the process, about the time the house was framed, in time to help with the finishing pieces like paint colors, flooring and furnishings.

Khattak credits Dill with masterminding the tranquil vibe she sought by blending her colorful treasures with a simple palette of whites and neutrals. That pairing of color and calm is evident from the first step through the front door. Crowned by a high barrel ceiling, the foyer features a large abstract painting placed thoughtfully over a dramatic divan in purple velvet.

Just off the foyer a powder room brings all the drama. Variegated marble tiles in a striking chevron pattern extend across the floor right up to the ceiling, punctuated by a floating vanity that holds a vessel sink. Pewter-toned metallic wallpaper ups the glam factor another notch in this small but unforgettable space.

A pair of arched openings separate the large living room from the formal dining room. Khattak says the dining room is one of her favorites places in the home, in part due to the artwork that adorns its walls. She recalls, “Leigh was very particular about what kind of art we were going to put in this room. She said, ‘This is an elegant room; we don't need too much going on.’” The pieces Khattak and Dill ultimately chose for the dining room walls are particular favorites of the homeowner: an original calligraphy work that artistically displays verses written in Arabic, and a pair of tall paintings in black and white that depict the Old City of Lahore in Pakistan. 

Khattak says her native country has a very rich culture and a lot of history, especially in its ancient Mughal cities. “I love these paintings because they remind me of back home and all the hustle and bustle of the markets,” she adds. 

An elegant light fixture, a Restoration Hardware dining table and chairs, custom curtains made from Pakistani fabric, and a brilliant blue rug, also imported from Khattak’s homeland, complete the dining room decor. 

That same vibrant blue appears in the adjacent living room’s sofa, rug and art, playing off the crisp white walls and marble tile floors found throughout the home’s main floor. The quiet foundation allows the brilliant accents to get the attention they deserve to clearly tell the story of this family.

White and neutral don’t have to equal boring, however, and that fact is beautifully illustrated in the home’s spacious kitchen. Dill guided the homeowners in selecting finishes that give the room a light, airy feel, from the stunning marble tile backsplash to the Taj Mahal quartzite counters to the cabinets in a tone that nods to white, but with a bit more color and depth.

Clever swinging doors separate the kitchen from the scullery, a feature Enoch is known for including in his residential architecture. Khattak says she loves the convenience of having extra work area and appliances out of plain view in the bonus kitchen.

Flowing from the kitchen is the family room, perhaps the heart of the home, which Khattak describes as the house’s “wow factor.” Warm oranges and deep blues stand out as the predominant design colors, repeated in the oversized sectional sofa and a pair of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams barrel chairs, in addition to the room’s true statement piece—the rug. Its Pakistani designer has been featured in Harper’s Bazaar, noted for his juxtaposition of traditional patterns with contemporary colors.  

The master bedroom continues to tell the story of the couple’s extensive travel history. Art from Amsterdam, textiles from Mexico and a rug and drapes from Pakistan merge flawlessly, punched up by a dramatic blue upholstered bed and a modern light fixture that adds an element of fun to the design. 

The upstairs playroom tells the story of the family’s two daughters, Menaal and Aaleen, aged 11 and nine. The two girls are both avid readers, so it’s only natural that their hangout space is literally wallpapered with books. A brightly colored pattern, a collage of front covers of iconic paperbacks from the famous Penguin publishing house, not only hints at the sisters’ favorite pastime, it also sets the saturated color palette for the room. A comfy sofa with twin chaises gives the girls an ideal spot to curl up with their favorite read, as does a pair of window seats set with plenty of pillows.

Past the playroom is the bedroom Menaal and Aaleen share, and it is every girl’s dream. Khattak says it was important to her and her husband that their daughters have a fully furnished spot of their own as soon as they moved into the house, so she gave Dill free rein with the design. The designer didn’t hold back, choosing bright pink and white wallpaper for one wall and to back the shelves in built-in bookcases, magenta upholstered bed frames with matching treasure chests at the foot, lavender and white bedding, and a built-in double desk with two pink furry chairs. A framed silhouette hangs over each girl’s bed—a must for any stylish young lady!

Although the house has been her family’s home for three years, Khattak says there are still a few chapters left before its story is complete. She and Dill continue to work on finishing touches in the guest bedrooms and there are plans to add an outdoor kitchen on the back patio. She also says she likes having her home as a bit of a work in progress; in fact she so enjoys collaborating with Dill that she’s in no hurry to turn the last page on the process of making the house a home that tells the story of her culture and her family. 

New Year, New Looks

Design by First Fruit Collection, Sensational Sofas and Kim Williams Interiors | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Annabella Charles

THE PENNINGTON

There’s nothing like turning the calendar page to a new year to spark the urge to update with the latest and greatest in home design trends. And there’s nowhere better to view up-to-the-moment ideas on display than the annual Vesta Home Show. 

We sat down with the creative minds behind two of the stunning residences from the latest installment of the Vesta to talk about the show homes and the newest ideas in architecture and design. We’re sure to see more of these trends in new construction and remodels in 2021 and beyond.

Ashley Toney, owner of First Fruit Collection in Collierville, along with her lead designer, Patty Michaelis, masterminded the design and decor of the Mandeville, built by the Dave Moore Companies. Toney describes the home as a “modern farmhouse” that appealed to show attendees due to its warm and inviting feel. “It flows well and it’s very liveable,” she says.

The Pennington was constructed by Griffin Elkington. Alexandra Quinn, owner of Sensational Sofas & Interiors, and staff designer Steven Ennis created the interior design and furnished the home. “When designing the custom furnishings for the Pennington, we thought of comfort, style and trend. We wanted to give it a fresh, updated feel,” says Quinn. Kim Williams, owner of KSW Interiors, provided design assistance for the homeowners.

The highlights of these two custom homes include features and looks that are fast becoming must haves in Mid South construction and design. 

THE PENNINGTON

THE PENNINGTON

BOLD COLOR

Gone are the days when everything in the house had to be light and neutral. Today’s home designers and owners aren’t afraid to make a dramatic statement with color. As Ennis says, “We love using neutrals, but pops of color really make a statement. Color always adds personality and a distinct mood to a space.”

The Mandeville’s kitchen features cabinets painted in Sherwin Williams Oak Moss, a bold green. The hue might be unexpected, but it works perfectly in the house, playing well with gold and brass hardware and fixtures. Setting off the colorful cabinets, a backsplash that extends to the ceiling (another current design trend) features square tiles in four slightly varied neutral shades, installed in a random pattern. 

The sitting room off the master bedroom in the Pennington is decked out in saturated color literally from head to toe. Its ceiling, walls and trim are all painted in a handsome charcoal that adds a wow factor, especially when paired with the room’s limestone fireplace. Williams notes that despite such a deep, rich color, the room doesn’t seem dark. “It gets plenty of natural light, so it works,” she explains.

BONUS KITCHENS

Whether they’re known as butler’s pantries or sculleries, extra rooms off the kitchen are all the rage, and both these Vesta homes have shining examples. It’s no wonder homeowners are clamoring for the bonus spaces—they offer extra storage, room for appliances, a prep spot that can be closed off from view when entertaining, and perhaps most importantly, a way to keep counters in the main kitchen clear and uncluttered. In fact, the family that now calls the Pennington home uses the scullery as the primary kitchen; the dishwasher and the main sink are located there. Thanks to that, the kitchen has an elegant, almost gallery-like feel. Art, rather than cabinets, graces the walls that flank the range, and the twin islands seem more like tables in a fine-dining restaurant.

In the Mandeville’s butler’s pantry, to-the-ceiling cabinets provide storage galore, while under-cabinet lighting illuminates extra countertop workspace any chef would envy. 

THE PENNINGTON

GOURMET APPLIANCES

The pandemic and quarantine turned many a homeowner into a would-be culinary star, whether by desire or necessity, and kitchen trends are reflecting that. These custom kitchens feature more than the standard range-refrigerator-sink triangle. The centerpiece of the Pennington is a stunning Hallman Professional Range. The perfect marriage of elegant design and cooking performance, Hallman’s feature brass burners and accents and come in an array of colors.

A restaurant-style pizza oven and a built-in coffee station are the stars of the kitchen show in the Mandeville. Such features make staying in for the evening appealing and eliminate the need for drive-through caffeine on the morning commute.

KIDS LOUNGES

Both these homes have upstairs areas dedicated to the younger set that go above and beyond the rec rooms of years gone by. Built-in bunk beds in play areas or media rooms are the ideal setting for sleep-overs. Williams points out that these clever additions continue to deliver even after the days of Friday night slumber parties are past. “This is such a fun trend that can also be a great spot when grandchildren come to visit. The Pennington has a guest room downstairs, but if the family has a lot of company, they could put the kids up there.”

THE PENNINGTON

Other leading-edge home design ideas include simpler vent hoods in kitchens. The Mandeville’s is clean white shiplap and the Pennington’s blends with the surrounding white walls. “We’re not seeing a lot of scrolling and detail like we used to, and that goes for cabinet style, too,” Toney says. Mixing metals throughout the home is quite popular for 2021, as well. Michaelis says some clients are hesitant to use a variety of finishes, but it definitely “pops” in design. “We think stainless steel and gold are great together. Everything doesn’t have to match.” 

Ditto for warm and cool tones in paint colors and furnishings. The Mandeville’s palette doesn’t tend as heavily to gray as that of some homes on which Toney and Michaelis have collaborated. Warm tones are experiencing a comeback, blending with cooler grays and whites for a varied look.

In keeping with that, wood elements are making appearances all over home design. These two homes are no exception. The Pennington features pecky cedar ceilings in the dining room and the stair hallway, while the Mandeville’s kitchen has open wooden shelving in place of wall cabinets and handsome beams in a warm honey finish in the family room.

Floating bathroom vanities and a wet room, a glass-enclosed area that holds the shower and bathtub, reflect current trends and make the Pennington’s master bath a luxurious retreat that would rival any spa.

THE PENNINGTON

For 2021, outdoor living areas continue to be in demand, while pools with extra features are more popular than ever. The Pennington’s pool is embellished with a series of fountain streams meeting in the center, as well as a pair of fire features that bring all the drama. At the Mandeville, a fieldstone combination waterfall and hot tub adds a focal point to the pool and the entire back yard. 

THE MANDEVILLE

Welcoming a New Season of Entertaining

Styling & Story by Ginni Jones | Photography by Annabella Charles Photography

Smaller & more intimate, fresh & outdoor gatherings... 

It's become our new norm. With a new year's arrival, it's time to welcome the new era of entertaining.

We were forced into it, but we've grown to love it and will never take it for granted.

Set the Table

  The dinner party is back! Small, more intimate gatherings that were once our only option have become a new trend we have grown to love. This winter we dined to celebrate our dear friends behind the brand J. LOWERY, and the launch of their new card case collection! 

The Details

REACTIVE GLAZE DINNERWARE WILLIAMS SONOMA | LEVI STONEWARE PLATES ANTHROPOLOGIE | GLASS BUD VASES LISA MALLORY INTERIOR DESIGN | ESTELLE COLORED GLASS LISA MALLORY INTERIOR DESIGN | CLOTHING OAK HALL 

Set the Table

Dinner was set al fresco in the courtyard. For the table I kept it simple, which was a nice change of pace from all the Christmas decor. I paired muted sage glazed dinner plates with light blue stoneware salad plates and glossy white French soup bowls. For pops of color, I used all the produce of the winter season: pomegranates, artichokes, persimmons and dried orange slices scattered down the table with delicate clear glass vases of fresh white scabiosa flowers. To top it off and complete the table, I chose my favorite "gems," Estelle Colored Glass wine glasses, as well as glass and gold champagne flutes, because we have lots to celebrate this new year!

J. LOWERY

the brand

Jamey and Margaret are lifelong best friends turned business partners and the co-owners of J.LOWERY. Together they design beautiful, quality pieces that fit seamlessly into today's lifestyle and personal aesthetic. For them, it's all about the everyday influencer. 

.................................

"We're a brand that celebrates who you are and what you like to wear. We strive to help people see in themselves what their peers see in them, hence our belief that each customer is an everyday influencer.

By building on a culture rather than building solely on a product, our brand’s core is not about the bags themselves, but the women who carry them.  

Wear your bag in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable and we will feel like we’ve accomplished what we’ve set out to do."

Chosen With Love

Interior Design by Selena McAdams of Spruce Shop | Story by Terri Glazer | Photos by Stefanie Rawlinson

As an interior designer, Selena McAdams’ job is all about making choices. Her daily work involves making decisions for her clients’ homes and choosing what to put on the shelves at Spruce, the East Memphis retail shop she owns.

The same is true for the home she shares with her husband Patrick and their two daughters, Taylor and Charlotte. Selena chose the house itself, and every piece in it, using careful thought combined with instinct. “I’ve done this [design] for so long that when I see something I love, I know that’s it,” she says.

The journey to making the 1940s era place her family home began about three years ago. She and Patrick had just finished flipping the house next door to their previous residence when this one came on the market, and they were looking to do another renovation for resale. “One family had lived here the whole time and had raised four sons here prior to us purchasing it,” says McAdams. “They had entertained a lot of offers on it, but the fact that we weren’t going to tear it down and we were going to redo it was appealing to them.”

About halfway through what started as a “really awesome project” Selena says something clicked. She realized this wasn’t just a house, it was her house. In fact, she felt so at home there, she decided to throw Patrick a surprise birthday party in the yard while the house was still under renovation.

The couple worked with local architect David Anderson to reimagine the home to suit their family’s needs, and Selena gives his practical design philosophy high marks. “What he is so good about is usable space. He’s so practical—he really has family in mind when he’s making space. He made it to where we live in all the rooms every day, which is great. I’m not a person who wants to have rooms that we’re not using.”

Although much “shifting” of the home had to be done, the architect and designer tried to keep as much of the original structure as possible. Builder Frank Gusmus and his crew from Gusmus Construction made the plan a reality and the homeowners couldn’t be happier with his work.

“I’m a big believer in making your space work for you. If your square footage doesn’t seem like it’s functional, change it.”

Where using the home’s original materials wasn't feasible, Selena was careful to make choices that were in keeping with the character of the house. Case in point is the entryway, where the new tile floor, hardwood stair risers and black lacquered handrail speak to the era in which the home was constructed.

Just off the entry is a sunny office area that Selena calls the “hub” of the home. On the large sofa or at the computer atop a pretty curved writing desk the girls can do school work in a cheerful space that’s not too far removed from the watchful eyes of their parents.

Perhaps the most drastic architectural shift was in the home’s former den, now a sleek and stylish master bedroom. The original design included a red brick fireplace, now plaster washed, and dark beams on the ceiling, which the McAdamses had removed. Hunt Simonton of HS Carpentry constructed the full wall of built-ins in the master. The handsome unit provides storage, a laundry hamper for each family member and a segue into the home’s laundry room.

Noting that even though both her daughters have their own bathrooms upstairs, “everyone is always in our space,” Selena says with a laugh. With that in mind, she asked Anderson to design a master bath and closet add-on inspired by a luxury lodging she had visited in Asheville, NC. “The bathroom was almost like a locker room and I told David that was what I wanted. I didn’t want doors; I just wanted everything to be in one space; one big room,” she recalls. 

While the master suite underwent the most extensive change, the living room is the most untouched part of the house. The stately fireplace is original, as well as the hardwood floors. Its furnishings are an eclectic blend of pieces Selena loves, having collected and used them in various ways over the years. The pair of rose velvet chairs were in a bedroom in her previous home, and the empire-style bench with a stunning malachite upholstered seat is a treasure she acquired solely because she loved it. “When I got that piece I didn’t have a stitch of green anywhere in my house. It was just one of those things where I loved the fabric so much that I said, ‘I’m doing it. It will all make sense one day! I’m a big believer in that.”

Through a large cased opening from the living room is the current dining room; ”current” because Selena originally imagined the space as another sitting area where Patrick could watch a game on TV while she and the girls enjoyed a show more to their liking nearby. Even though the space is now used for family meals, a TV hidden inside the antique French armoire still lets the man of the house keep up with his favorite teams. 

The dining room opens into the kitchen, an area that exudes sophistication. The room is more than a pretty face, though, every detail created with practicality in mind. The striking antiqued glass mirror wall is easily cleanable. Selena says it was a must in this house, as it also reflects the beauty of the backyard through the facing windows. “It gets more of that gardenly love inside,” she says. “The light bounces back and forth and we get a lot of green from the yard.”

In her professional life, Selena encourages her clients to make functional design choices so they can use and enjoy their homes without worry, Her own kitchen is a testament to that concept. She opted for a dark paint color on the island to mask scuff marks when her children sit there and decided to forgo upper cabinets because they can be hard to reach. Instead she included drawers in varying sizes and depths in the cabinet design, even a homework drawer to keep the countertops clutter free.

Behind the kitchen, the home’s reworked floor plan includes a powder room, pantry and a back kitchen—one of Selena’s favorite features. “When we’re outside grilling, when we have parties, all the drinks are in here,” she says. “Glasses, cups, ice, liquor, coolers...all the drink action. It works really well.”

Working well is a phrase that applies to every aspect of this house and its furnishings. Using her design expertise, Selena has blended function and beauty, traditional with unexpected, incorporating her treasures, to create a family home that will stand the test of time. 

Holiday Entryways

Styling by Lindley Martens | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Ross Group Creative

Three different styles, each sure to make big impact

Our holiday gatherings may be a bit smaller and more subdued in 2020, but there’s no reason they can’t look merry. Lindley Martens, owner of Lindley Martens Design and Laurel Rd. Antiques and Modern, created three seasonal entryway vignettes exclusively for At Home. Whether your style is traditional, minimalist or glam, they will inspire you to create a warm welcome for guests from the moment they walk through the front door.

Modern Elegance

Festive yet understated

A Korean secretary chest provides the base for this minimalist look. Martens paired a mid-century lamp and a green Empoli glass vase filled with magnolia branches from the yard to anchor the piece, accented by more vintage classics: a pair of banana peel candle holders and a brass sculpture. “This handsome guy could live there all year round and don a bow at Christmas time to make him more festive,” she says. A Paul Schneider Ceramics geode glazed tray adds to the cool factor.

“Fragrance adds another memorable layer to your home, whether it’s fresh pine from your yard or spicy, clove-pierced oranges.”

Time-Honored Classic

Traditional with a little spunk

Here Martens paired tried-and-true Christmas decor elements with the unexpected for an unforgettable look. The Empire-style chest with bronze ormolu details sports a colorful topper doing double duty. “That’s actually a scarf that I wear,” Martens says. “I love using scarves to add an extra layer of color and texture. Walking in the door to this color would be so festive!” The opaline glass and bronze lamps are from the estate of 80s design superstar Mario Buatta. Martens added Indian ikat fabric shades for an unexpected touch of drama. The white compote filled with pine cones is a simple way to add height to any tableau.

“The new faux greenery, like this wreath, looks incredible. I added some holly from a bush in the yard and lots of loppy ribbon is really cheerful.”

Masterful Mingling

Glamor meets holiday

What a stately look this Empire-style chest would bring to an entryway. Topped by a grand antique directoire mirror embellished with pine garland, it is decked out for the holidays. Martens brought together a diverse group of pieces to create the look, including a pair of glossy lamps and two original works of art by Haley

“Put a collection of antique Christmas tree ornaments in a bright, mid-century bowl. This is a great and easy way to add a shiny touch.”

Laurel Rd. Antiques & Modern, located at 680 S. Perkins Rd., is open Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 901.581.2000 to set up an evening or weekend appointment during December. Visit lindleymartens.com to join the mailing list and stay up to date with all things Lindley Martens including her new online shop.

Setting the Table for the Holidays!

Styling & Story by Ginni Jones | Photography by Annabella Charles

'Tis the season to set the table! This holiday season we have realized it's more important than ever to spend time with our loved ones. For my family, that means gathering around the table for a lovely meal. 

Keeping with the theme of "nothing being normal" this year, I decided to create a colorful and bright tablescape rather than the traditional red and green holiday setting. My inspiration was sparked by these "Twelve Days of Christmas" dessert plates from Anthropologie. For many years I have loved the work of watercolor artist Inslee Fariss. I found her, of course, on Instagram, and have been following her right from the beginning. When she posted these plates as a part of her collaboration with Anthropologie back in the summer, I knew I wanted to plan my whole Christmas tablescape around them. They are the cutest plates—a new take on the traditional twelve days of Christmas—complete with six geese a-laying, apres ski style, and more. When the plates arrived in the mail, I found they were even better in person. The plates are scalloped with a hand-painted gold edge, perfectly matching the scalloped gold edges of Herend china.

So I was off to Social, our local Herend distributors, to pick out the color palette that would accompany my adorable new plates. We went with rust, raspberry, fern and turquoise to best accent the plates. My final decision was to use the "Silk Ribbon" chargers with the corresponding "Chinese Bouquet" dinner plates. 

Since I had a bright color palette going with raspberry, turquoise, fern and rust, I called my sweet friend at Spyglass Lane for some custom cocktail napkins. We selected a classic "cheers" as well as "merry & bright" with Christmas lights in the four bright hues from the color palette. 

For the rest of the table, I kept it simple. Beautiful white hemstitched linen napkins, antique silver flatware, and my great grandmother's champagne coupes, only used for special occasions (aka 2020)!  

Decking the halls

was super simple this year thanks to my favorite floral shop, Garden District. In addition to creating stunning floral arrangements year round, they are masters at decorating for the holidays. 

Our table is long; 10 feet long, to be exact, so I fastened two strands of artificial pinecone garland from Garden District together to create the perfect centerpiece.    (TIP: I always add a few springs of fresh greens to the artificial garland to make it look even more realistic!) I tucked in gold candlesticks and the table was set. 

On the sideboard, I love to mix and match clusters of bottle brush trees. Also sourced from Garden District, the silver trees paired nicely with the antique silver flatware on the table and the bright green trees, which also light up, were the perfect bright take on traditional Christmas green. 

Shop Local

If ever there was a time to shop locally, 2020 is it. We know this year has been rough for everyone, especially small business owners. This Christmas, even though it will be a small family get-together, we are still dressing as if we were having a big Christmas Eve party. I'll be cocktail party (I wish) ready in this Tish Cox navy taffeta Sheridan top from Oak Hall. And to complete the outfit, I’ll be sporting my favorite stack of Oak Hall Collection oxidized sterling silver and diamond bracelets.

Plan

your menu ahead of time. This year, make it a priority to outsource some items from local restaurants. In our house, we will be ordering the sweets from 17 Berkshire Bakery. 

Nuha Abuduhair, the owner and baker at 17 Berkshire, plans the most creative holiday menus when it comes to the dessert department. For tarts, cakes, macarons, cupcakes and more, I highly suggest visiting her in Overton Square for your holiday treats. 

wishing

you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas! May you fill this time with happy, healthy and wonderful memories as you spend the season with your quarantine crew. And may you finish 2020 on one special note!

see y'all next year!   xoxo, ginni jones

Old- World Opulence

Design by Angela Mazanti | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Sélavie Photography

Step inside the East Memphis home of Kim and Johnny Pitts and be transported to a lavish Christmas in a French chateau.

The holiday decor in the Pitts home reflects all the best of the season, with a decidedly European flair. Designer Angela Mazanti decks these halls, keeping in mind the French chateau style of the architecture and the house’s year round color palette. Rather than traditional red and green, Mazanti opts for tones of persimmon and gold. Those hues play perfectly off the Turkish rug in the foyer, artwork in the dining room and upholstered antique French chairs.

The home’s exterior gets the holiday treatment from Tennessee Christmas Lights. The company illuminates the front yard for the season, including the jasmine espalier around the entry turret, welcoming guests to the front door.

Once inside, visitors are immediately wowed by a tree filled with ornaments that have special meaning for Kim. “Her maiden name is Swann, and friends love to give her swan ornaments because of that,” Mazanti explains. 

Fresh pine and magnolia combine with lights and silk, velvet and taffeta ribbons to drape the front stair railing, the orange-brown of the underside of the magnolia leaves adding a natural element to the unique color scheme. 

The centerpiece of the Pitts’ holiday decor is the enormous fresh Christmas tree. Reaching to the family room’s 12-foot ceiling, it fills the home with holiday spirit and the aroma of evergreen. Mazanti says decorating the massive Douglas fir is no small feat, but luckily, Kim has amassed a large collection of beautiful ornaments over the years. Mazanti combines the keepsakes with thousands of twinkling lights and lush ribbons to create a spectacle worthy of European royalty.

The home isn’t fully ready for the holidays until Kim’s treasured angels are on display. Her collection of exquisite Old World-style angels, many of which she found in a shop in The Greenbrier resort in West Virginia, is large enough that Mazanti places them throughout the home to add an element of elegance.

Sets of sparkling snow-covered houses and glittering vintage Santas nestled in more fresh greenery dress up the dining room buffet.

Many of Kim’s beloved Christmas pieces are also sentimental, as they have been gifts from the family’s large circle of friends over the years. Bringing them out every year to trim her home is like gathering again to share memories with the people who mean so much to her. It’s that emotional connection that truly mirrors the spirit of the holiday season.

A Gem in the Heart of Germantown

Interior Design by Warehouse 67 Design | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Annabella Charles

“A home is just like a painting; you have some elements that play the background and some that are focal points. It’s knowing how to layer those so that the end result is harmonious and you get that beautiful, cohesive, finished look that’s indescribable. You don’t know why you like it, but you like it.” 

Interior designer Kim Loudenbeck uses this artistic analogy to describe a renovation project she recently completed. The collaboration between Loudenbeck, home builder John Duke and Elizabeth Wilson Duke, realtor, was a labor of love. 

“We’ve been pouring our hearts into it because we love that it’s such a gem,” says Loudenbeck. The beauty of the house is that it is a sizable home on a sizable lot, and in the heart of Germantown. “You don’t see these properties in Germantown very much. With the space limitations now the lots are getting smaller but there are still people who want more land, and those lots are few and far between,” the designer adds.

When the house went on the market Elizabeth recognized a golden opportunity. She bought the property and convinced her husband, who usually builds new-construction homes, to tackle a large-scale renovation. Rounding out the team were architect Jeff Bramlett and Loudenbeck. 

The designer says that for this reno, as with every project she takes on, the vision of the ultimate personality of the home was key from day one. “Laying that out and having a clear definition of where you’re going is so important,” she emphasizes. However, a renovation always involves twists and turns. “There are so many things that come about in the process. You don’t know what’s behind the walls; you don’t know what you’re going to run into,” she cautions. Loudenbeck’s goal was to keep the project focused amid the changes that inevitably came. “It can be like a roller coaster with a reno, and you just have to be prepared that there are going to be changes. As long as you know where you’re going, it’s easy to stay on track. People often get stuck in the weeds; they get overwhelmed with renovations. It’s so important to have the right team or someone to partner with to keep you focused on getting what you want out of the home.”

Although the Dukes bought it with the intention to remodel for resale the term “flip” seems an inadequate description of this jewel of a house. “It’s the features that really set this home apart. The attention to detail is phenomenal, says Loudenbeck. The master bath has a heated floor, the kitchen has an Aga Elise induction range and a custom vent hood. The original kitchen was transformed into a large, fully equipped scullery for entertaining, and the study has an eye-catching wood-paneled ceiling. 

That focus on detail sometimes led to more work, but the results justify the effort. Loudenbeck says, “We didn’t really stick with what was easy; we made choices based on what was best. In the office we used pecky cypress on the ceiling as a decorative element. The front and back doors are solid alder. We used smooth cypress on the beams. It was a lot of using the right elements in the right place, but when it came to paint and stain, we had to use a different combination of stain on each of these to make sure that it all looks the same in the end. Every wood stains differently. So many details and to get the end result that you want you have to focus on each and every one of them. The end result will be affected if you don’t take everything seriously.”

Loudenbeck’s vision for the design was to retain the character of the original home while pushing the envelope to take the design from traditional more toward transitional. While she had Duke keep what she calls “little jewels” from the original construction like arched openings and a curved staircase, she admits she went a little edgier on the lighting selections, the finishes and the modern waterfall island in the kitchen. “Adding unique and different elements that are more transitional creates a great balance between what was here and what was done. It’s a beautiful marriage of the two,” she says.

Two of the areas that received full do-overs were the home’s bathrooms and kitchen—rooms Loudenbeck says a discerning buyer would most definitely want to see equipped with up-to-the-moment features. Along with the show-stopping range, vent hood from Lipford Sheet Metal and waterfall counter in quartzite with just the right blend of warm and cool tones, the kitchen boasts a large commercial-style refrigerator/freezer and a bar area embellished with antique mirror-front doors. Open, natural wood shelving in both the kitchen and the scullery bring an earthy element that Loudenbeck loves to incorporate in all her designs and pair with stone and mixed metals. “I feel like it creates a real sense of warmth, especially when the walls are lighter,” she says. 

While Bramlett was able to work with the rooms in the front of the house, the ones on the back weren’t compatible with a modern, open floor plan, so they had to be completely redone. You’d never know it, though. “In a renovation, the ultimate goal is that you don’t want it to feel like the newly done part is disjointed from the rest of the home,” says Loudenbeck. The renovation team achieved that goal perfectly. The floor plan flows seamlessly from the front entry with its majestic, yet clean-lined curved stair, to the large dining room, to the newly built family room and kitchen. “We took the traditional elements and gave them a little different spin—a bit cleaner, different finishes to make it look new and fresh versus feeling like we had to go back with what was expected.” 

The master suite was created with relaxation and luxury in mind. While it feels private and secluded, the bedroom is also soaked in natural light. The vaulted ceiling repeats the natural element of wooden beams found in the family room. The bath is full of all the latest bells and whistles, from the heated floor to the freestanding soaking tub to the his-and-hers vanities to the deluxe shower with multiple sprays. “We knew that someone in this home on this land in the heart of Germantown would want a really special home. When you have a chance to put all the fun stuff in, why not?” laughs Loudenbeck. 

Asked about the effort she and her Warehouse 67 team put into fully staging the home Loudenbeck had this to say. “In our area, homes don’t usually sell furnished, but in other parts of the country that’s more typical. We are seeing that change a little, though. We’ve furnished it tastefully and so that it blends perfectly with the house. A buyer might like the fact that they could walk right in and only need to bring sentimental pieces that they want with them.”

In addition, the team felt that with the scope of this renovation, it was only fitting to dress the revitalized home in style. “We wanted to show the sentence finished, with the exclamation mark. What the potential of this house could be,” the designer says. 

It’s clear from Loudenbeck’s enthusiasm that the architect, builder and designer achieved the full potential on this collaboration. “I think it’s fun to sit back and take in the beautiful vignettes created in the home,” she says. “When you’re walking through the house it reads well. There’s something pretty in every view and at every different angle.”

Thanksgiving with Spruce Shop

Event Design and Written by Selena McAdams of Spruce Shop | Photography by Annabella Charles Photography

Spruce Shop | 632 South Perkins Rd. Memphis, TN 38117 | Instagram @spruceshop

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays...the air is cool and the pressure of deadlines or finding the perfect gift doesn’t exist. It’s simply a gathering with your tribe, whether that consists of family or friends you call family. So when At Home mentioned styling a Thanksgiving table, especially after a year of quarantining and social distancing, I was ready and willing. To create the style I tried to stick with the concept of using what I had on hand first—a little hunting and gathering in my own home—and only filling in as needed. I always say if you only buy things you love, you can pull it all together when the time comes. That concept plays out beautifully when setting a table. I hope you enjoy this grouping of mostly vintage finds collected over a lifetime to tell a story in our home this Thanksgiving.

New Years with Babcock Gifts

Event Design by Babcock Gifts | Photography by Annabella Charles Photography

Babcock Gifts | 4538 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38117 | babcockgifts.com

crystal vase: Jasmine 7" Tumbler Vase by William Yeoward | Double Champagne Bucket: Match

We have all spent more nights at home this year, but that doesn't mean we have been lacking in elegance. Whether you are hosting a multi-course meal or a champagne toast, let's ring in a New Year with golden sophistication and a perfect table for family and friends. Cheers to 2021!

Dinnerware: Auratus OB by Porcel | Crystal: Mille Nuits by Baccarat | Flatware: Osiris by Christofle | Ruffle Gold Wine Coaster by Annieglass

Dinnerware: Chinese Bouquet Black by Herend | Crystal: Lismore Essence by Waterford | Flatware: 1800 by Reed & Barton | Weston Candlesticks by Reed & Barton

Dinnerware: Latitudes Black and Gold by Royal Limoges | Glassware: Hartland by Simon Pearce | Flatware: Le Perle by Couzon

Dinnerware: Oasis Black and Gold by Royal Limoges | Crystal: Araglin by Waterford | Flatware: Albi by Christofle

Dinnerware: Chinese Bouquet Garland Black by Herend | Crystal: Elizabeth by William Yeoward | Flatware: Roma by Mepra

Dinnerware: Zen by L'Objet | Crystal: Helena by William Yeoward | Flatware: Allora by Reed & Barton

Christmas with Social

Event Design by Social | Photography by Annabella Charles Photography

Social | 600 S. Perkins Rd. Memphis, TN 38117 | social-memphis.com

In the deep, deep woods where Russian Romanov meets Gypsy... a setting of opulent surroundings, fine china, luxurious textiles and indulgent cuisine. A jubilee in honor of the imperial court celebrating Christmas. Just imagine... a Christmas tree for each family member, relative and court staff, all decorated with burning candles, gilded and silvered fruit and toys. Dripping candles in gold candelabras, fruit and flowers that add natural decor to the setting.

The tabletop team at Social is at it again, with Carmen Bond taking the reins to create this lavish Christmas table fit for royalty. A wide range of china, crystal and silver give inspiration for your very own Thanksgiving or Christmas tablescape. While this elaborate display may not be in reach for some, the tabletop team at Social is at your disposal to create your perfect holiday table. 

Dinner in the Greenhouse

Text & Event Design by Ginni Jones | Photography by Annabella Charles

Fall is here & what better way to celebrate than enjoying the crisp, cool air with dinner al fresco!  

Since gathering in small groups has become the new norm, we decided to embrace the cooler temperatures and head outdoors for a small, intimate dinner party for four! This fall, I am loving all the earth tones. When I saw these stunning sage green splatter plates at The Avenue, I knew they would be the star of the table. Paired with terrcotta linen napkins, dark rose tumblers and a pale green textured runner, the colors blended together beautifully.

The Table

THE AVENUE | Headquartered in Houston, TX & online, this store is always my first stop! Lyndsey Zorich, the owner, has curated the most unique and special products that take any tablescape or outfit to the next level. 

THE DETAILS

STONE SCALLOP DINNER PLATE THE AVENUE | TERRACOTTA LINEN NAPKINS THE AVENUE | TINTED ROSE TUMBLER THE AVENUE | PANALITO RUNNER THE AVENUE | GINGHAM DELFINA DRESS THE AVENUE | SAGE SPLATTER SALAD PLATE & BOWL THE AVENUE | VINTAGE RUG ELLE WOVEN | CALLIGRAPHY MARY ELIZABETH LETTERING  

The Menu

appetizer | sweet potato rounds two ways

1 ) herbed goat cheese, pear, walnut, thyme                                  

2) arugula, fig, goat cheese, pomegranate, basalmic

appetizer | autumn cheese board

starter | roasted butternut squash soup

entree | cider-brined pork lion in a mustard glaze  fresh herb polenta with parsnip chips & maple butter

dessert | apple crumble & homemade ice cream

cocktail | eastside rickey

The Greens

JUNE WREN FLOWERS |  There's no better pair to call than this mother-daughter duo that's making Memphis beautiful with all things green!  These fabulous ladies do it all-help you grow your seasonal garden, container gardening around your home and more. Check out their happy hour plant speak series on Instagram (@junewrenflowers) for all their tips & tricks! 

The House

My family is blessed to have been surrounded by amazing friends, or as we like to call them, "our chosen family." The Kakaleses are just that & we have shared countless memories in their greenhouse. Whether it's Cinco de Mayo, celebrating a birthday or friend's recent engagement, or just a wednesday happy hour, I have cherished every memory made with our "chosen" family in this charming greenhouse. 

The Cocktail

The Eastside Rickey was found at the Wonderbird Spirits Distillery in Taylor, MS. Featuring their world-class gin, just add lime, cucumber & mint-it's a crisp & refresing beverage we will be sipping on all year round! Not only is Wonderbird's gin award winning, but it's fermented from Mississippi Delta rice-straight from grain to glass. 

Creating a Classic

Interior Design by M.Steffens Interiors | Story by Terri Glazer | Photography by Ross Group Creative

When a couple sold their house in Germantown in 2016 they weren’t planning to build a new house. In fact, the wish list for their new home was quite the opposite. The two neighborhoods they had their eyes on were both long established. 

They purchased a house in Belle Meade, an East Memphis area known for its stately older homes on tree-lined streets, with the intention of remodeling it. As plans progressed, however, they realized a redo wouldn’t be feasible. The only option that made sense was to start from scratch. 

Disappointed but undeterred, the pair brought in experts to create a new-construction home with an older, classic ambiance. “I wanted it to feel like a home that belonged here and had been a part of the neighborhood for some time.  In terms of interior features and finishes, we wanted pieces that would be timeless and lasting,” the homeowner recalls. Missy Steffens, owner of M. Steffens Interiors, was on board from the beginning, along with architect Doug Enoch. “That was a great thing to be able to have the architect and designer sit down with us at the same table when we were walking through how we wanted the house to feel.” 

The finished product, built by Walker Uhlhorn and Uhlhorn Brothers Construction, is an updated classic designed in a courtyard style to maximize views of the parklike backyard. The peaceful vista includes large trees, lush green spaces created by landscape designer Harry Schuh, and the home’s original pool, with a fresh structural and cosmetic facelift.

In keeping with the owners’ desire to respect and fit in to the neighborhood, Enoch set the structure as far back from the street as possible. In addition to the goal of not overbuilding the lot, the owners again emphasized the desire for the home to feel as if it had been on the street for years. “So many homes in the neighborhood have grown and expanded over the years with tasteful additions. Doug provided a design that gave the far left and right wings a different treatment which subtly felt as if they had been additions to the original house,” says the homeowner.

The exterior’s green and white color scheme is the end result of a collaboration between Steffens and the homeowner. “We thought we wanted antique brick, and that’s what we did the chimney and the outdoor space in. Missy and I spent hours driving around town looking at houses, and we think we landed on the right look.” 

Adds Steffens, “The green creates that cozy, cottagey look, but it blends in well and makes you focus more on the rest of the home.” As for the white painted brick that covers most of the house, the designer says that also had to be precisely the right shade. “We wanted it to be white, but really soft.” 

Moving to the interior plans, the clients asked the architect to keep in mind their family’s casual lifestyle. “We wanted a lot of open space that would be nice but comfortable,” says the homeowner. The parents to a blended family of three older children knew they would be empty nesters before long, so they envisioned their new house as one that would meet their needs long-term. 

Enoch came through with a floor plan that has all the kids’ bedrooms upstairs; the downstairs and outdoor area are a custom fit for the couple. “We love being outside so the pool and the outdoor area and the porch...especially in fall and spring, that’s where we are,” says the homeowner. “We have my husband’s den and then our bedroom and bathroom downstairs. We really enjoy it in the evenings. He likes to stay up and watch sports and I like to go to bed, so we tried to make it space that we could enjoy, just the two of us.” 

From the first step into the bright, welcoming entryway, it’s clear that green is an overarching theme in the home’s design, evidenced in the showcased views of the verdant outdoor space. The rear of the foyer was originally intended to be an art wall, but, at the homeowners’ request, Enoch inserted an oversized floor-to-ceiling window that floods the area with light and shows off the beauty of the backyard. 

The wall of windows continues in the open combined family room and dining area, and although the couple is thrilled with the expansive views they enjoy, they admit it took a bit of getting used to when they moved in. “We felt like we lived in a fishbowl for a while,” she says with a laugh, “but I think we’ve adjusted. It’s funny how much I love the openness now.” Even the family pet is a fan of the large windows. Otis the boxer “posts up” daily at the front window and watches the world go by from his favorite vantage point. 

The family room’s furnishings reflect Steffens’ signature design style. “I love something old in each room. But I like to keep things fresh, so we also introduce current materials. I like to try to mix, and different textures are always interesting,” she explains. The room features comfortable seating for the whole family, but is missing an item often included in a home’s main gathering area—a TV. 

The omission was a request from the homeowner, and one she says garnered plenty of questions. “Everybody asked me when we did that, ‘Are you sure you don’t want a TV?’” She couldn’t be happier with the result, though. “What I’ve really enjoyed about it is when our kids are over for dinner we all end up sitting in here after we’ve eaten and we actually talk. We have conversations and we share things about the week. Maybe we turn music on. We laugh. So I have loved not having a TV in here.” 

Over the mantel Steffens placed an original piece by Oxford, MS, artist Carlyle Wolfe Lee, who paints en plein air then finishes her works with a stencil layering process. The homeowner says she loves the way its green hues bring the outside in. “The view through all the windows, and the beautiful green siding...it just enhances!” 

The open kitchen’s simple design reflects casual elegance. Classic white cabinets in a symmetrical layout are topped with Carrera marble in a honed finish for a softer look. Steffens repeated the same marble on the full-height backsplash behind the range in the name of design simplicity. She likes the idea of having only a few different materials in a kitchen, and the large island opposite the range has a walnut countertop. 

The island anchors the space as well as giving guests a gathering spot. “I wanted a big island because we entertain a good bit. We have friends over and this is where everybody ends up,” says the homeowner. 

Behind the range wall lies the scullery, a feature that the family loves having and uses constantly. From the abundance of storage space in its cabinets to the extra dishwasher and sink to the pair of refrigerator drawers, everything about it gets high marks from the homeowner. 

Near the rear entrance, a pantry and utility closet disappear into a shiplap wall, giving convenient room for even more storage as well as small appliances like a coffee maker and a microwave. Steffens calls the area the clients’ “grown-up mudroom.” In place of lockers or cubbies needed for a family with young children, she designed the spot to hold a treasured bench and a painting by local artist Beth Edwards that the homeowner says is her favorite one in the house. “As much as I love the outdoors, when Missy sent me this piece of art I knew it was the one.” 

Bathed in stunning floral wallpaper from British designer Neisha Crosland, the powder room is a showstopper. Steffens is pleased with the way the paper fits into the home’s overall design. “I love the movement in it and the range of greens that flow through the house. The deep, deep greens of the leaves and the bright white background. This just really worked with the whole house. The house flows through different saturations of green—some are more blue green and some are more yellow green.” The room’s only window is high on the wall, so Steffens didn’t have to cover it to allow for privacy. She did, however, have to come up with a way to fill the space between the vanity and the window. A tall backsplash and wall faucets provide the perfect balance, and do so with loads of panache. 

The saturation of green color reaches a peak in the office, where the walls and all the trim sport the same deep, lush shade. Steffens says going all in when using a bold color creates a refined look. “If this room had white trim or even white mullions on the windows it wouldn’t quite have the same sophistication. But it’s a commitment and it can be scary for people.” 

An antique brick fireplace not only gives the room a cozy feel, it also gets regular use in all but the hottest months of the year. “My husband loves a fire, so sometimes when I get home from work he will have one burning in here and in the fireplace on the porch,” says the homeowner. 

If the office is a man cave, albeit a sophisticated one, the master suite has a decidedly feminine flair. The bedroom is simple and roomy, but not grandiose. The homeowner instructed Steffens to design the space with minimal furniture and no television. She says, “I wanted it to be a place where we can rest.” The sanctuary feel comes from a custom upholstered Hickory Chair bed with simple bedding and an original Catherine Erb work of art. All Erb’s creations have a different moodiness to them, says Steffens, who chose the depiction of sky and clouds for its serene nature. 

The artwork is dreamy, but the homeowner says the view out the large window opposite the bed is the most picturesque scene in the room. “I love that I can see our home out this window, especially at night when the porch is all lit up out back with a fire in the fireplace. Doug said more people should be able to see their home from inside their home and we agree.”

The elegant master bath gets an ethereal feel from natural light spilling in through a window above the large soaking tub and from the soaring vaulted ceiling. A full wall of built-in cabinets and drawers eliminates the need for a lot of furniture and keeps the space clean and simple. “Simple is calming to me,” says the homeowner. “Running a business can be stressful, and to come home and have things simple and pretty and comfortable...it makes a big difference in your life.” 

Even though it has been over two years since they moved in, the homeowner admits that the house is still a bit of a work in progress. Steffens has no problem with the extended nature of the project. She says, “That never bothers me because once you’re in a space you can really think through how the family lives and provide an even a stronger design. It takes more time in some ways but at the end, the product’s always fantastic.” 

Adds the homeowner, “We’re still working on layering those last items. I didn’t want to rush out and buy things just to fill the house. I want it to take time and have meaning. To nest over years.”

Turning a house into a home. Nesting over years with time and meaning...carefully creating a sense of place and belonging.