The home sits on two lots that create a gradual slope to the water, requiring no major set of stairs like many lakeside homes. This is one of the many reasons the Smiths were drawn to this particular spot on the lake. — Photography by Chris Luker
Smith Lake has long played a prominent part in the lives of Jennifer and Ken Smith. It was where the young couple spent many weekends at Ken’s parents’ place well before they were even married, so naturally it was the preferred spot when the couple decided to take the plunge and purchase their own lakeside abode. “From the moment we started coming here, we fell in love with it,” Jennifer says. “When a friend of Ken’s decided to sell their home, we jumped on it. It’s one of the best lots on the lake.”
This covered porch features comfortable seating for watching an evening sunset, including a classic porch swing from Seibels and black weather-resistant Adirondack chairs. The screened-in porch is located right off the living room—easily accessed through telescopic doors. “Screened porches are great, but they can be dark, so I like to offer variety,” Adam says.
Outdoor living is key to lake life, and Adam Gerndt prefers to include a generous mix of screened porches, terraces, and unscreened porches to maximize the views and entertaining spaces.
The home’s bar was specifically inspired by the large and centrally-located bar at Hooray Ranch. This smaller take on the bar is a family-favorite spot for watching football in the fall with its three TVs. Editorial credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson / Shutterstock.com Editorial credit: Critical Labz / Shutterstock.com
And that may be an understatement. Nestled atop a point amongst stately trees, the lot features an easy slope to the water—no stairs required—and nearly 360-degree water views. The same description, however, couldn’t be used for the original home itself. Built in the 1960s, the house didn’t live up to the high standards of its plot. Though the Smiths enjoyed the home as it was for nearly a decade, it became quite clear that some updates had to be done to keep it livable. “We realized we either needed to do a lot of repairs or build new,” Jennifer says. “But we also knew that the first option would require a whole lot of ‘band-aids.’”
The Belgian blue stone tile backsplash from Triton Stone surrounds the custom iron hood from Welded Wood. The interior design team balanced out the room’s darker tones with Calcutta Paonazzo marble (Triton Stone), which blends beautifully thanks to the hint of black, gold, and rust in its veining.
The perfect solution came about when the lot next door went on the market. Rather than renovating, the Smiths purchased the neighboring lot, tore down both houses, and began envisioning a new rustic retreat that would take center stage on the point and full advantage of the lakeside layout. Just as importantly, the new home would be large enough to comfortably house the couple’s expanding family and many friends. “Our kids like to have a lot of friends over too, and sometimes we would be hosting upwards of 25 people,” Jennifer says. “The old house just didn’t have all the space where it was needed to do that easily.”
In considering the design of the new home, the Smiths wanted to combine their love of the lake with another favorite place: Hooray Ranch, a hunting lodge in Kansas. Ken particularly loved the look and layout of the lodge, but he needed someone who could take the vision and tailor it to their specific needs. The couple found just the right partner with Adam Gerndt. “Adam took the idea and ran with it,” Jennifer says. “From the very first meeting, he grasped every detail perfectly.”
LEFT: The vaulted ceiling makes a major statement in the main living area, which includes the living room, dining room, and bar. The trio of custom iron chandeliers, designed by Adam’s team and fabricated by Welded Wood, offer weight and balance to the soaring space. CENTER: Double doors welcome guests into the home’s foyer. Nestled into the alcove is a dresser and floral artwork from High Point Furniture. RIGHT: Adam converted what was to be a storage room into a fun and playful bunk room for the family’s ever-expanding family. The custom-made beds are accented with custom railing and bronze sconces from Visual Comfort. Blue and white linen and accessories are a mix-and-match combination from HomeGoods and T.J. Maxx.
“To create something timeless and generational, the best way to do it is scale and proportion. Those come together in this home in a truly thoughtful way.”
— Adam Gerndt
Jennifer chose to keep neutral tones throughout the home, including the primary suite. “I didn’t want anything to feel too feminine or too overly masculine for any guests,” she says.The Calacatta Gold marble water table adds drama to the primary bathroom. The same marble continues into the shower and sits atop the pecky cypress cabinets, which feature a metal mesh for an extra layer of texture. To avoid outshining the marble—and to ensure the space has plenty of light—the interior design team opted for simple sconces. The polished nickel faucet adds a clean, crisp feel to the space.
Adam started by carefully crafting the layout, keeping the main living areas centered in the structure and placing bedroom wings on each side, just like the lodge. This provided privacy while also ensuring every room has a view of the lake. He also made sure the house would live as large as possible when hosting a crowd by utilizing an open concept that features expansive kitchen, living, and dining areas, all directly open to the screened porch, which has become a favorite spot in the house for its views.
To keep the feel of a rustic retreat, Adam opted for natural materials, both inside and out, such as Oneonta brown sandstone, western red cedar, pine-clad walls, and pesky cypress cabinets. These earthy selections not only connect the home to its environment but also stand the test of time for generations to come. Jennifer adds, “Adam designed this home in a way that our family can enjoy forever.”
1 English cucumber 2 1/2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, chopped 2 red and yellow bell peppers chopped and seeded 1/2 small red onion 3 cloves of garlic 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar 1/2 cup olive evoo plus more for drizzling 1 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Small tomatoes for toppings Crumpled bacon for toppings Garlic bread croutons for toppings
Instructions 1. Finely chop 1/4 cucumber reserve for garnish 2. Peel the remaining cucumber, cut into chunks , and transfer to a blender. Add the tomatoes, peppers, onion , garlic , cilantro, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth . Season to taste and chill for at least 2 hours . 3. Serve soup with reserved diced cucumber ,fresh herbs, bacon, garlic bread croutons and drizzles of oil and lemon squeeze
The Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens will celebrate the 17th Annual Antiques at the Gardens (AATG) this fall. Presented by O’Neal Industries and featuring design sponsor de Gournay and textile sponsor Cowtan & Tout, Birmingham’s premier antiques show welcomes a lineup of nationally and internationally acclaimed speakers, interior designers, landscape architects, and experts on gracious entertaining.
Weekend festivities begin Thursday, September 28, with the Gala in the Gardens—outdoors and under the stars—sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. James E. Ard and honoring former board chair Mr. B. Hanson Slaughter. Guests will arrive through the Garden entry. Created by Zachary J. Westall, the entry will available to be admired and enjoyed through the entirety of the event.
Proceeds benefit the mission of the nonprofit Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, which seeks to protect, nurture, and share the wonders of the Gardens.
Tickets for the show and special events are on sale now. For tickets, show schedule, speaker bios, and dealer information, visit bbgardens.org/antiques. Follow show announcements and reveals on Facebook and Instagram @antiquesgardensbham. We look forward to seeing you at Antiques at the Gardens!
Friday, September 29 Red Diamond Lecture Series– Sponsored by Red Diamond, Inc. Hosted by Richard Keith Langham, 2023 Show Ambassador Moderator: Mitchell Owens, American Editor, THE WORLD OF INTERIORS
Martin Brudnizki Martin Brudnizki is founder and principal of Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS), an internationally acclaimed interior architecture and design practice. Hailing from Stockholm, Martin held positions at a number of firms before establishing his studios in London and New York. He has been described as “one of the best restaurant and hotel designers of his generation.” Notable clients include: Four Seasons, Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, Six Senses Luxury Resorts, and The Surf Club. In 2015, Martin established And Objects, a luxury furniture, lighting, and accessories design studio. Martin is listed within AD 100, House & Garden Top 100 Leading Interior Designers, the Elle Décor A-List, and more.
Friday, September 29 The Art of Tradition Panel Hannah Cecil Gurney, Celerie Kemble, Sarah Wetenhall Moderator: Steele Marcoux, Editor in Chief, VERANDA
Hannah Cecil Gurney Hannah is the daughter of Claud Cecil Gurney, who founded the English bespoke wallpaper company de Gournay in 1986. She is now the director of the company, renowned for its elegant wallpapers and textiles. Celebrated for its hand-painted chinoiserie wallpapers, patterns of colorful flora, and varied birdlife, de Gournay produces collections that explore historical themes. The company also crafts abstract designs that fit well with modern interiors. With showrooms in London, New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Moscow, de Gournay also has representatives worldwide.
Celerie Kemble Celerie Kemble is a principal in Kemble Interiors, a design firm founded in Palm Beach by her mother, Mimi McMakin. Over the past 22 years, her work has included homes and commercial spaces across the United States and the Caribbean, many of which have been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Veranda, Elle Décor, Traditional Home, Luxe, and more. Celerie is the author of several books: Island Whimsy, To Your Taste, and Black & White (and a Bit in Between). She has been included in Architectural Digest’s AD100, House & Garden’s 50 New Tastemakers, House Beautiful’s Top Designers, Elle Décor’s A-List Designers, Luxe’s Gold List, and more. She currently boasts licensed product lines with Schumacher, Arteriors, Lane Venture, Maitland-Smith, and others. Celerie also has an ongoing partnership with Chairish where she offers exclusive product designs and sells most of her lines in one spot.
Sarah Wetenhall Sarah Wetenhall is the owner and CEO of The Colony Hotel, the visionary behind this historic “Pink Paradise” in Palm Beach. Sarah began her career in New York, spearheading public relations and marketing efforts for major fashion houses. After acquiring The Colony Hotel in 2016 from a previous generation of ownership including her father-in-law, Wetenhall commenced a restoration and relaunch, evolving The Colony into an internationally recognized, and design-forward hotel. Among her industry-defining projects are the resurgence of the iconic Manhattan boîte, Swifty’s, the lobby transformation featuring bespoke de Gournay wallpaper, the Villa redesigns by Kemble, Aerin Lauder, and Mark D. Sikes, along with fashion partnerships with Bergdorf Goodman, Valentino, Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors, and Dolce & Gabbana—to name a few. In 2021, she was named one of HOTELS magazine’s Top Ten Independent Hoteliers.
Saturday, September 30 Love it or Hate it Panel Aldous Bertram, Paloma Contreras, Peter Dunham, Michael Diaz-Griffith Moderator: Anna Brockway, Co-Founder and President, Chairish Sponsored by Visual Comfort & Co.
Aldous Bertram Aldous Bertram is an artist, art historian, and interior designer who lives in Charleston, South Carolina. His designs and interiors have been featured in House Beautiful and other top design publications. Aldous grew up in England and received his Ph.D. from Trinity College, Cambridge University, specializing in the historical influence of China on English garden design and architecture. He recently published his first book, Dragons & Pagodas: A Celebration of Chinoiserie.
Paloma Contreras Houston-based designer Paloma Contreras has repeatedly been named to the Elle Décor A-List and has been recognized in House Beautiful’s “Next Wave” designer list and Luxe Magazine’s “Gold List.” She has been recognized as a top social media influencer in home and interior design by Forbes and Elle Décor and her work has been featured in many magazines including Architectural Digest, Vogue, Domino, Traditional Home, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, The New York Times, and more. Paloma debuted a lighting collection with Visual Comfort & Co. She is author of Dream Design Live and The New Classic Home (October 2024). Her retail shop, Paloma & Co sources antiques, objects from across the globe, and emerging artists.
Peter Dunham After a childhood in France and college in England, Peter Dunham spent time in New York real estate before moving to Los Angeles in 1998 where he started his design firm followed by the launch of his fabric and wallpaper collection in 2003, now sold worldwide. In 2007, he opened Hollywood at Home, featuring handcrafted furniture, textiles, and vintage finds. His design work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, House Beautiful, Coastal Living, Veranda, Domino, and more. Peter is on Elle Décor’s A-List and included in Vendome Press’s new book, Inspired Design: The 100 Most Important Designers of the Past 100 Years.
Michael Diaz-Griffith Michael Diaz-Griffith is an art historian, designer, and executive director and COO of the Design Leadership Network. Previously, he served as executive director of Sir John Soane’s Museum Foundation, and associate executive director of The Winter Show. As a consultant, he has advised fairs, auction houses, galleries, and museums, and he was recently named to House Beautiful’s list of “Visionaries” for his advocacy of antiques, historic art, and preservation. The New Antiquarians: At Home with Young Collectors, released in June 2023, is his first book.
Saturday, September 30 The Art of Hospitality Panel Zoë de Givenchy, Alex Hitz, G. Blake Sams, Sybil Sylvester Moderator: Margot Shaw, Editor in Chief, FLOWER Sponsored by LICOA
Zoë de Givenchy Zoë de Givenchy is founder and creative director of luxury brand Z.d.G. Z.d.G. celebrates European craftsmanship and ancient artisanal techniques to create beautiful objects for the home and table. This approach is the result of her life rooted in Europe, her childhood in Australia, and now in the US. Zoë’s entire supply chain is focused on supporting regional artisans and the communities in which they work to ensure longevity of these arts.
Alex Hitz Alex Hitz is an award-winning celebrity chef, event designer, and tastemaker. His most recent book, “Occasions to Celebrate: Cooking and Entertaining with Style” features more than 100 recipes inspired by Southern fare and French flair. He is author of My Beverly Hills Kitchen and The Art of the Host. A contributing editor for Town & Country, he writes regularly for C Magazine, Quest, and Southern Living, and was a former food editor for House Beautiful. He splits his time between Atlanta, New York City, Los Angeles, and Palm Beach.
G. Blake Sams G. Blake Sams is an innovator in the special events industry. His passion for design and hospitality allows him to create a memorable experience for clients. His interpretation of timeless design, combined with attention to detail, understanding of event logistics, and focus on residential design, has made him an award-winning event producer. His work has been featured in Vogue, Brides, Veranda, Elle Décor, Garden & Gun, and more. He splits his time between New York City and Charleston, South Carolina.
Sybil Sylvester Sybil Sylvester is the owner of Birmingham-based Wildflower Designs. She is known for creating stunning flower arrangements and orchestrating take-your-breath-away events. Always culling greenery and flowers from the abundance growing in the gardens and forests of her surroundings, Sybil embraces the philosophy of local and natural. Her “Flower School” was a popular column in Southern Accents magazine, and her work has been featured in many other publications, including Flower magazine. Through Sylvester’s Wildflower School, she travels around the country, designing and demonstrating. She is the author of Fresh, published in 2017.
Sunday, October 1 Sunday with Richard Keith Langham,2023 Show Ambassador Sponsored by Cobbs Allen and PURE Insurance
Richard Keith Langham Alabama-born and Manhattan-based Richard Keith Langham has been a force in the decorating world for more than 30 years. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and attending the Center for the History of Fine and Decorative Arts in London, Keith apprenticed with design legend Mark Hampton. He then spent 10 years with Irvine & Fleming before founding his own firm in 1990. Keith’s keen eye and ebullient talent serve him well in assembling his signature rooms—those that speak to the past in a fresh way and are brimming with luscious color, pattern, and couture detailing.
Sunday, October 1 The Art of the Home Panel Bill Brockschmidt, Courtney Coleman, Stan Dixon, Keith Robinson Moderator: Hadley Keller, Director of Editorial, Design Leadership Network Sponsored by Christopher Collection and Christopher Architecture and Interiors
Bill Brockschmidt and Courtney Coleman Bill Brockschmidt and Courtney Coleman focus on traditional detailing, proportion, materials, and craftsmanship in both architectural elements and in furnishings. They launched their interior design studio, Brockschmidt & Coleman, in NYC in 2001, followed by a studio on Magazine Street in New Orleans in 2019. Their work has been featured in Frederic, Veranda, Architectural Digest, Departures, Garden & Gun, and more. The duo has been included on Elle Décor’s A-List annually since 2012.
Stan Dixon Architect Stan Dixon was named one of “The New Faces of Southern Style” by Garden & Gun. He is a three-time winner of the Southeast Architect of the Year by Veranda and ADAC. He is an 11-time winner of the Philip Trammell Shutze Award presented by the Southeast Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. He was awarded the Addison Mizner Medal for his work in Palm Beach. Rizzoli will publish his first book, HOME: The Residential Architecture of D. Stanley Dixon this fall.
Keith Robinson Keith G. Robinson is the former creative director/owner of the event company Gloriosa. He is known for his restoration of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia’s 19th-century Hutcheson-Redwine Plantation, where he developed exhibition gardens that have been featured in Garden & Gun, Garden Design, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Veranda and the book, American Roots. He is now on the executive team of a resort under development at Dunaway Gardens, where he is focusing on restoring 22 acres of historic gardens and starting a five-star culinary program.
Some talks will be followed by book signings. Books available for purchase at Leaf & Petal prior to and during the show.
Special Weekend Events
Shop the Show with Michael Diaz-Griffith Friday, Sept. 29 at 9:30 a.m. Sponsored by MK Quinlan Join Michael for a special tour of the dealer booths, share recommendations, and talk about pieces that catch his eye during this intimate walk-through.
Floral Workshop with Keith Robinson Saturday, Sept 30 at 3:30 p.m. Sponsored by SHOPPE Keith will lead participants through his creative process and inspirations as he crafts a signature arrangement for the audience.
The Antiques Dealers
Antiques Cupboard • Beau Matthews Jewels • Black Sheep Antiques • Dana Kelly Oriental Rugs • Edwin C. Skinner Antiques • Hedgerow Antiques • Justin Westbrook Antiques • Linda Ketterling Antiques • Madison James • Maison de France Antiques • McDonough Fine Art • Piggy Kitchen • Recreo Jewelry • Relic Interiors Limited • Right Proper • Roger D. Winter Ltd • Thomas M. Fortner Antiques • Victoriana • Well + Wonder Artist Collective • Whitehall Antiques
The classic Craftsman-style bungalow exudes charm with custom chert rock columns and restored windows, while an expanded front porch encourages neighbors to drop by for a visit. The Baileys added the second story and expanded the width of the front porch. Photography by Jean Allsopp, photo styling by Virginia Volman
Long-time Homewood residents Clark and Kat Bailey were not looking to move, but when good friends and residential designers Jama and Geoffrey Ketcham decided to put their quaint bungalow up for sale, the large flat front yard on the property proved irresistible. With four active boys, Kat, an interior designer, envisioned neighborhood fun with football games in the front, soccer games in back, and friends gathering on a large front porch for socializing and watching the kids at play.
Despite the tight space inside and the small-scale porch, Kat saw the home’s inherent potential and knew it could be expanded to suit her family of six, especially since the Ketchams had already completed some appealing renovations during their tenure. She drew the plans and collaborated with the Ketchams on creating more space by adding a second story for the boys’ rooms, as well as making smart architectural decisions using as many original materials as possible to keep the historical character.
While many large families would seek out a modern, open floor plan, Kat is an old soul. “I love historic houses with multiple cozy rooms. There are so many spots for us to be together yet places for you to find a quiet corner to read or work,” she says. For instance, the bookcases were designed to accommodate two built-in desk spaces (homework stations for the boys), and one of the family’s favorite gathering spots is the dining room. There, a Gabby table is met with midcentury modern chairs from The Nest. “This has become our hangout room,” Kat says. “When we first moved in, we would find ourselves pulling in more chairs when friends came over. Finally, we just added the sofa and wing chairs so everyone can continue the conversation after a meal.”
The bookcase wall adds a dramatic note but it’s also practical with two built-in desk areas. Kat mounted European antler trophies on plaques that sit on the bookcase’s exterior framing. Antique books, an old typewriter, and vintage globe contribute to the eye-catching presentation.
And there are plenty of conversation starters. Artwork in the dining room and pieces around the house are prompts for family member and curious guests. “We all interpret the pieces in our own way,” Kat says. “Everyone sees something different in the abstracts, and we like to consider the personalities in the portraits. I think the man in the blue painting in the living room has a bit of a condescending attitude,” she laughs.
Plants are front and center in every room, including the dining room. “A room is not complete without house plants in varying sizes; they breathe new life into a space, and the year-round green is always refreshing,”Kat says.Kat contrasts antique pieces such as this spindle arm chair and gilded French mirror with contemporary art. “Some people would frame the art, but I like the added texture of the exposed canvas,” she says.
Saturated paint colors such as “Caviar” from Sherwin-Williams set off her art and assorted pieces. It’s an engaging collection of special and surprising finds with a blend of antiques, as well as vintage pieces with some contemporary additions in play from varied sources. “I can look at a room and tell you where I got every single piece,” Kat says. “And it’s always changing. I never buy anything for a particular location because I am always moving things around. Nothing ever stays in the same spot for long.” The designer is especially drawn to items with texture, color, and age. “If something is old, it’s already had a life and has a story behind it,” she says. “Then I get to add my own story to it.”
LEFT: Residential designer and former homeowner Jama Ketchum designed the custom cabinetry and chose the Danby marble countertops from Triton Stone and the La Cornue range from European Kitchens. Kat added the soapstone backsplash and unlacquered brass pot filler. She also wrapped the hood and walls in a distinguishing moody blush grasscloth. The butcher block counter was a gift from Jama. RIGHT: The family room shows off a mélange of varying styles and furnishings with an antique rug juxtaposed with a black-iron contemporary light fixture that has a futuristic attitude.
Kat’s personal finds are complemented by narratives in pieces handed down from her own family. The weathered ceiling beams came from her father who had salvaged an old tobacco barn in Tennessee, and the Duncan Phyfe sofa in the dining room was from Clark’s grandmother. The sideboard in the living room was originally in the dining room of Kat’s childhood home.
“The rooms and collections morph,” says the designer. “Rearranging is my therapy, and it keeps things interesting.” She has created a sense of discovery at every turn with a studied attention to detail. And for guests, something new is sure to captivate and engage the eye on each visit.
LEFT: The primary bedroom reveals a black-and-white story tempered by a vivid antique rug and floral-patterned ceramic table lamps with gleaming gold shades. The bed is painted the same color as the walls (Caviar” from Sherwin-Williams) to let fabrics and artwork shine. The painting of clouds above the bed is by Kat’s college friend Courtney J. Garrett. RIGHT: Formerly a study, the primary bath fits in seamlessly with the home’s historic architecture. “I wanted to impart some age with the old-fashioned, claw-foot soaking tub and an antique rug,” Kat says.
When you live in Alabama, you gradually “ease” into fall. September still feels like summer here. As much as I want to pull out the slow cooker or make a big pot of chili, it’s not time yet—at least not until the first cold snap that usually comes along in mid-October.
So with this weather reality, I thought it would be the perfect time to grab up a handful of fresh, hearty-healthy ingredients and give Mediterranean cooking a try.
For football gatherings, you’ll want to serve the make-ahead White Bean Dip, Toasted Sesame Almonds, and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. All three of these make an impressive spread and a nice alternative to a predictable cheese board.
Be sure to try the Simple Salmon with Mediterranean Couscous for a quick weeknight supper. And if you really want to impress your next dinner guests, assemble the Shrimp and Rice with Olives and Oranges en Papillote in advance. Your guests will be amazed when they tear open these beautiful, tasty packets of flavor.
Shrimp and Rice with Olives and Oranges en Papillote
SERVES 4
2 cups precooked basmati rice 1 cup coarsely chopped green olives ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest Juice from 1 orange 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 pound (medium-size) shrimp, peeled and deveined 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 4 thin slices orange 2 tablespoons chopped toasted almonds 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut 4 (12- x 15-inch) pieces of parchment paper. Fold each in half widthwise, and reopen.
In a small bowl, combine rice, green olives, and next 5 ingredients. Spoon ¾ of the rice mixture on to one side of each parchment rectangle near the crease. Divide shrimp evenly, and place over the rice mixture. Drizzle each with 1 teaspoon olive oil, and top with orange slice.
Fold the empty half of parchment over the shrimp filling, and crimp edges together with overlapping folds to seal. Place packets on a large sheet pan. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes. To serve, slide packets on to plates, carefully tear open paper, and garnish with almonds and parsley.
Toasted Sesame Almonds
MAKES 3½ CUPS
2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 teaspoons Kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 3 tablespoons sesame seeds, or 1½ tablespoons each white and black sesame seeds 1 large egg white 2 teaspoons soy sauce 3 cups unsalted whole almonds Toasted sesame oil
Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine the sugars, salt, cayenne, and sesame seeds in a bowl.
In a second bowl, beat the egg white with the soy sauce until mixture is combined. Add the almonds to the egg mixture, and stir to coat evenly.
Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the almonds, and stir to combine. Transfer the almonds to the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, and bake for 30 minutes, stirring once midway through the baking time.
Remove from the oven, and drizzle with sesame oil; allow to cool completely on the baking sheet. Store in a tin or jar, breaking up any that stick together.
Simple Salmon with Mediterranean Couscous
SERVES 4
For the couscous: 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 medium-size shallots, finely chopped ¼ teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon ground cumin 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1 cup couscous ½ cup golden raisins ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, plus additional mint leaves for garnish ½ cup chopped pistachio nuts
For the salmon: 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skinned removed 2 tablespoons olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper Lemon wedges
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan. Sauté shallots for about 3 minutes, until they begin to soften. Add the salt, pepper, and cumin, and cook for 1 minute. Pour in broth, increase heat to high, and bring to a boil. Add couscous; stir, cover, and remove from heat. Allow to sit for 10 minutes. With a fork, fluff the couscous, and add raisins, parsley, and mint. Stir to combine. Top with nuts before serving.
Place salmon in a shallow bowl, and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Turn to coat fillets on all sides. Heat a cast-iron skillet to medium-high. Place salmon in pan, and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Carefully flip salmon over, and place in preheated oven to finish cooking, about 5 to 6 minutes or until desired doneness. Serve salmon with couscous. Garnish with fresh mint and lemon wedges.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
MAKES 4½ CUPS
2 (15.5-ounce) cans garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and drained 1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers in water, drained 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (juice of 2 lemons) ¼ cup tahini, well stirred 1 garlic clove 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper Salt to taste Toasted pine nuts, optional
Place first 7 ingredients in the bowl of a food processor; pulse until creamy. Garnish if desired. Serve with pita chips, crackers, or assorted vegetables.
White Bean Dip
MAKES 3 CUPS
2 (15.5-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh rosemary Juice of 1 lemon 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Combine all ingredients in the bowl of a food processor; pulse until creamy. Serve with warm bread, crackers, or assorted vegetables.
Looking for your next weekend away? The Watersound Club on 30A offers more than enough reasons to visit in any season—and it will entice you to come back again and again.
Watersound Club’s idyllic private beach.
Membership has its benefits. When the crowds flock to Florida’s famed 30A, Watersound Club members aren’t the ones waiting for a dining table or a beach chair. The St. Joe Company’s private club has recently expanded to offer more amenities and more access. And they have just opened the Camp Creek Inn with a “Member for a Day” package that allows guests to see just how good the other half lives.
Not only is the 75-room inn well-appointed and inviting, thanks to spacious rooms, golf course views, a fine-dining location, and elegant bar for meeting up with friends, it’s also adjacent to the club’s new 12,000-square-foot wellness and recreation center complete with three group exercise rooms, a cardio and strength-training area, men’s and women’s steam rooms and saunas, a hot tub, and an adults-only lap pool. For family fun, there’s an incredible meandering pool complete with a lazy river, waterpark-worthy slide, and poolside dining with seated restaurant or chairside service. The brand new racquet center offers competitive fun with eight lighted clay tennis courts, eight pickleball courts, and a pro shop. For golfers, membership includes entry to two pristine golf courses (another is under way), as well as a performance center with instructional pros that promise to knock a couple of strokes off your game.
Not enough? Camp Creek Inn guests also have shuttle access to the original beachfront club that started it all. Enjoy two zero-entry, ocean-front pools; two dining venues; private beach access; and concierge-style service with complimentary beach chairs and towels.
With all of the offerings, it would be hard for anyone to leave—unless they take advantage of the club’s eight-seat private charter plane, a Pilatus PC-12 NG. Access to 30A beaches and a private airstrip hangar that allows members to jet down to the Caribbean on their own schedule? We’re in! See you at the beach, but don’t be looking for us among the crowds. We’ll be at the club.
Builder: RW Development Home design: David Smelcer Landscape design: Greenspace, LLC Landscape supplier: SiteOne Landscape Supply Pavers: FireRock Building Materials Windows and doors: PlyGym / Cornerstone Building Brands Gas lanterns and hardware: Brandino Brass Gas: Spire Outdoor furniture: Hollywood Outdoor Living Garage doors: Red Mountain Garage Doors Insulation: Allied Insulation Fountain: Elegant Earth
“Classic design with a nod to current trends makes for a beautiful home, as seen in the 2023 Inspiration Home. To unify the look for this house, the directive for the designers was just soft, warm colors. Most people won’t realize that seven different designers worked on the main level.”
— Becky Umphrey, design liaison
Exterior & Landscape
Builder: RW Development Home design: David SmelcerBuilder: RW Development Home design: David Smelcer Landscape design: Greenspace, LLC Outdoor furniture: Hollywood Outdoor LivingBuilder: RW Development Home design: David Smelcer Garage doors:Red Mountain Garage Doors
Entry
Rugs, furnishings, accessories: Hiltz-Lauber Windows and door: PlyGem / Cornerstone Building Brands Hardwood floors: River Bottom Pine Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Lighting: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply
Room design and accessories: Nicole Roby Designs / Rome Curate Lighting: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Appliances: Ferguson Hardware: Brandino Brass Countertop and backsplash: Triton Stone Group
Dining room
Room design, furnishings, art, accessories: Stock & Trade Design Co. Floors: River Bottom Pine Chandelier: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Marble: Triton Stone Group Windows: PlyGem Windows / Cottage Supply Co.
Powder Room
Room design and accessories: Cotton & Quill Vanity design: Becky Umphrey Soapstone vanity: Triton Stone Group Fixtures and plumbing: VW Gallerie at V&W Supply Sconces: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply
Mudroom
Room design and accesories: Cotton & Quill Cabinets: KITH Cabinets / Cottage Supply Sconces: Inline Lighting Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Rug: English Village Lane Floors: River Bottom Pine
Laundry
Room design, wallpaper, fabric, and accessories: Cotton & Quill Appliances: Ferguson Cabinets: KITH Cabintets / Cottage Supply Company Plumbing and fixtures: VW Gallerie at V&W Supply Countertops: Triton Stone Group Lighting: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Rug: English Village Lane
Outdoor Living
Room design and outdoor furniture: Hollywood Outdoor Living Builder: RW Development Home design: David Smelcer Landscape design: Greenspace, LLC Landscape installation: SiteOne Landscape Supply Fireplace and pavers: FireRock Building Materials Gas: Spire Windows and doors: PlyGem / Cornerstone Building Brands Garage doors: Red Mountain Garage Doors Insulation: Allied InsulationStay cool. The front entrance features FireRock pavers with superior solar reflection. No matter how hot it gets outside, this flooring always stays cool.
Primary Bedroom
Room design, furnishings, rug, accessories: Christopher Collection Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Chandelier: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Floors and ceiling: River Bottom Pine
“The provenance of piece has always been intriguing. How many owners has it had? What has it ‘seen’? Who made it? Most of that information gets lost along the way, but history makes a piece more interesting.”
— Christopher Collection design team
Even it out. A draped wall balances out the weight of the wood ceiling and the heavy furnishings.
Primary Bath & Fixtures
Room design, accessories: Christopher Collection Plumbing and fixtures: VW Gallerie at V&W Supply Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Ceiling fixture and sconces: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Cabinets: KITH Kitchens / Cottage Supply Tile and countertops: Triton Stone Group Cabinet hardware: Brandino Brass
Closet
Closet design: Space Cadets Accessories: Christopher Architecture and Interiors Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating
Bedroom
Room design, furnishings: White Peacock Designs Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Ceiling fixture and bath sconces: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Cabinets: KITH Kitchens/Cottage Supply Tile: Triton Stone Group Cabinet hardware: Brandino Brass Plumbing and fixtures: VW Gallerie at V&W Supply Company
Loft
Room design, furnishings, rug, accessories: Christopher Collection Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Chandelier: Inline Lighting & Electrical Supply
Bedroom
Room design, beds, linens, drapery, ottomans: Dorm Decor Rug: English Village Lane Chest: Stock & Trade Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Artwork: Allison Brown
Upstairs Bonus Room
Room design, furnishings, art, accessories: Scandinavian Design Gallery Chandelier: Inline Lighting and Electric Supply Rug: English Village Lane Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Floors: River Bottom Pine Adjacent bathroom designer: Becky Umphrey Tile: Triton Stone Group Plumbing Fixtures: VW Gallerie at V&W Supply Cabinets: KITH Kitchens / Cottage Supply
Bedroom
Room design, furnishings, accessories: Bill Aroosian Designs / Habitation Paint: Rainbow Paint and Decorating Ceiling fixture and sconces: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Floors: River Bottom Pine Cabinets: KITH Kitchens / Cottage Supply Company Tile: Triton Stone Group Cabinet hardware: Brandino Brass Plumbing and fixtures: VW Gallerie at V&W Supply Company
Downstairs Den
Room design, furniture, and accessories: SWAG Design Studio Rugs: English Village Lane Builder: RW Development Home design: David Smelcer Garage doors: Red Mountain Garage Doors Insulation: Allied Insulation
Bar
Bar design: Becky Umphrey Accessories: SWAG Design Studio Tile and countertops: Triton Stone Group Cabinets: KITH Cabinets/ Cottage Supply Company Lighting: Inline Lighting & Electric Supply Hardware: Brandino Brass Appliances: VW Gallerie at V&W Supply
In her new cookbook, Ashley Mac shares over 100 recipes with fans of her Birmingham restaurants and beyond.
Ashley listened to customer requests and gave them some highly proprietary recipes, most notably her Strawberry Cake. “I was a little hesitant to give this gem away, but I also really want our fans to have the opportunity to try this delicious cake—especially those that don’t live close to our cafes,” Ashley says. Photo by 83 Press
After almost 17 years of serving homemade meals for Birmingham residents, Ashley McMakin, also known as Ashley Mac, has released Ashley Mac’s Kitchen (83 Press, Hoffman Media), a cookbook featuring her most popular recipes, as well as some new ones that are sure to become instant favorites. The dishes in this book reflect the way Ashley eats in her real life. For the home chef who may feel intimidated by some of the more complex, time-consuming recipes, Ashley recommends the chapter focused on comfort food. It even includes no-bake options.
Photo by The Pen + Piper
“I like to say this cookbook is how I cook and eat in real life. The recipes are simple yet delicious. They are enough for the home cook yet elevated enough to serve for company.”
—Ashley McMakin
Aside from her restaurant business, Ashley runs a busy household with five children, something that had a large impact on the development of her book. There is an entire section dedicated to her family’s favorites. In her commentary for each recipe, Ashley goes beyond the actual dishes and offers readers a story that ties the food to herself and her family in a special way. Her hope is that those who purchase this book will create their own memories as they serve the recipes to their loved ones.
Ashley Mac’s Kitchen is available in all Ashley Mac’s main locations (Cahaba Heights, Inverness, Riverchase, Homewood) and at ashleymacs.com.
The ranch-style home originally had a small galley-like kitchen. In the renovation, space was taken from an unused secondary den to nearly double the size of the room and allow for a large island—a must-have for the homeowners. To provide as much functionality as possible at the island, Kelly went with all drawers. “They’re more functional than traditional cabinets,” she says. “Everything is much more accessible.” Photography by Mary Margaret Smith // Styling by Kathleen Varner
To give her clients the colorful space they desired without it feeling too quirky or playful, designer Kelly Neely went with a soft blue (‘Light Blue’ by Farrow & Ball) on the island and pantry tower. “It’s a safe way to add color while keeping the look more sophisticated,” she says. “I didn’t want it to feel like Barbie’s kitchen.”
The designer then worked with Neely Construction to keep the rest of the aesthetic classic and clean, starting with a mosaic Asian Statuary polished marble backsplash from Fixtures & Finishes that mimics the geometric shape of the custom vent hood. As another nod to the curvature of the backsplash and hood, as well as to bring a little extra character into the room, Kelly added a dainty trim profile to the drawers on the island.
And to keep these details from feeling too feminine, she balanced them with the sleek, straight lines of shaker doors and inset cabinetry in the rest of the space. Calcutta Gold marble from Surface One, featuring gray-and-white veining that complements the pops of blue, tops off the island and perimeter cabinets, while a mix of hardware finishes—polished nickel plumbing fixtures and French antique cabinet pulls from Brandino Brass—add some shine. Barstools from Ballard Designs and pendant lights from Circa Lighting complete the look.
An appliance tower allows the homeowners to hide appliances yet easily access them as needed. Kelly brought the shades of blue to the wall with a still life by Caroline Stroud from Design Supply.
“From the strategic uses of blue to the applied molding on the cabinets, each detail works together to elevate the space.”
—Kelly Neely
Kelly created an instant focal point with the custom vent hood. Because the range is on a wall by itself, she wanted cabinetry on either side for a sense of symmetry. Glass doors on the cabinet towers soften the look while also allowing the homeowners’ Estelle colored glasses to shine through.Kelly wanted to bring the blue-and-white scheme of the kitchen into the laundry room without copying it too closely. She chose a more masculine spin with darker cabinets and a darker slate floor from Fixtures & Finishes. A rug from Paige Albright Orientals brings additional pops of blue. To add interest to the flat panel cabinets, the designer included a backplate with the drawer and cabinet pulls. A gold light fixture from Circa Lighting offers a bit of bling.
In the laundry room, Kelly continued the use of blue, but she chose to go a bit bolder in the small space. ‘Hauge Blue’ by Farrow & Ball makes a serious statement on the flat-panel cabinets, which are topped with easy-to-clean white quartz countertops. Hand-painted walls perfectly imitate the look of wallpaper and bring another shade of blue into the space. “My wish was for both rooms to feel colorful and welcoming yet sophisticated, and Kelly made it happen,” says the homeowner. “When you walk inside, you can’t help but be happy.”
TIP: To combat the lower ceiling, Kelly painted the wall, trim, and cabinets the same shade, ‘Alabaster’ by Sherwin-Williams, giving the illusion of height.
Incorporating Color
Considering color in your kitchen? Kelly Neely of Kelly Neely Interiors shares her tips on layering in color without overdoing it.
Stick to just one color. Too much color will overwhelm the eye. Here, blue is used on the island and certain perimeter cabinets. The remaining cabinets are painted white to blend into the wall, allowing the blue to be the focal point.
Use the color in strategic places. It’s important to make the color feel purposeful, not random.
Ensure additional pops of the color throughout the room. Circulating the same color throughout the space pulls the eye around the entire room.
Add a contrasting hue on the island. This is an easy way to incorporate color while also helping to anchor the space.
Bring in more color with rugs and artwork. This helps continue color without overwhelming the room.
Designer Hadley Dobson reimagines a kitchen for a couple who loves to cook and entertain.
The original footprint of the kitchen stayed intact except for moving the stovetop from the island to an exterior wall that formerly housed wall-to-wall cabinets. Hadley softened the space by designing a custom arch above it. She let in the light by adding more windows. Photography by Jean Allsopp
Hospitality has always been a way of life for Tommy and Paula Artmann. It started decades ago when Tommy first began serving as a pastor, and it only accelerated when Paula began hosting local college-aged kids for dinner every week in what became known as Mondays with Mom. “It started very organically with our daughter, who was in college at the time, bringing friends over for dinner after cheer practice,” Paula says. “It grew into something that meant so much to us.”
When Tommy retired and the Artmanns made the move to Birmingham to be near grandkids, they wanted to keep a kitchen that is ready to serve. “Our home is open for people to come and know that they are loved and that they have a place, and that especially includes the kitchen,” Paula says.
The built-in beverage station helps guests feel right at home while also making it easy for Paula to hide items away. The shelves house coffee cups and small appliances, while the drawers below hold a variety of teas, coffees, and accessories.
TIP: To keep a white kitchen from feeling too cold, avoid stark white shades. Here, Hadley opted to go with two coordinating whites: Benjamin Moore ‘White Dove’ on the walls and Benjamin Moore ‘Ashwood’ on the perimeter cabinetry.
Thankfully, the Artmanns knew precisely who to call when taking on a renovation of their new abode—designer Hadley Dobson, who has known the family since her college days when she was coming over for those Monday night meals. Hadley teamed with Trey Crosby of JL Crosby Construction to create an inviting space that’s as warm and welcoming as it is well-designed.
Hadley started by creating an ultra-functional layout with multiple workspaces, as well as cabinets from The Refinery Custom Cabinets. Near the stovetop, which was moved from the island to an exterior wall underneath a custom-designed arch, she added easily-accessible drawers for spices, cookware, and bakeware. The island houses Paula’s baking station, made to hide her mixer and other baking staples. She even factored in a beverage station, which can be hidden when not in use, as well as a butler’s pantry that doubles as a serving area and storage space.
LEFT: Paula has a large African violet collection, which she often likes to bring into the kitchen, so Hadley worked in a ledge on the window above the cooktop especially for her chosen plants. “My grandmother and my father both grew African violets, and I became the keeper of the violets when they passed,” Paula says. “Hadley noticed that, and it’s a tiny detail she worked in that I love so much.” RIGHT: Hadley wanted to make sure Paula could enjoy the view of her garden, so she added more windows to the back of the house. As a special nod to Paula’s love of gardening—which she also uses as a ministry to serve others—Hadley comissioned two florals by artist Carrie Nenstiel.
Hadley also ensured the kitchen was livable, especially since multiple grandchildren would be using it. That led to specific finish selections, including dark soapstone from Surface One for the perimeter countertops. “It’s durable but also grounds the space,” she says. Ever-resilient white quartz covers the island. “Everything about the kitchen is so functional, but it’s more beautiful than I ever expected,” Paula says. “And just as importantly, it’s made to accommodate a crowd.”
“I love this kitchen so much because Paula loves to cook, so I know she’s going to use it for good. In this space, she will continue serving others.”
—Hadley Dobson
Hadley Dobson
Creating a Collected Kitchen
Strategic style choices allow for a newly-renovated space to feel curated yet collected. Here, Hadley shares her tips to give a new space the character that feels like home.
Layer in a variety of textures and finishes. This gives the room depth and warmth. Here, Hadley brought in soapstone and quartz on the countertops, wooden barstools, and antique brass plumbing fixtures and cabinet pulls, which will patina over time.
Mix the new with the old. Trendy pendant lights and sconces from Visual Comfort offer a pleasing contrast to the vintage-inspired wooden barstools.
Incorporate meaningful items. There’s no better way to up the character of a space. In addition to custom-painted floral prints that speak to Paula’s love of gardening, Hadley also included a family heirloom, a painting by Paula’s mother, hung between a new, built-in cabinet in the dining room.
Avoid going too trendy with the finishes. Keep most picks classic and traditional, such as a stained island, shaker cabinets, and brass finishes, which allows for the space to be stylish without ever going out of style.
