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Inside the Colorful Master Retreat of Birmingham Floral Designer Sybil Sylvester

By
Lacey Howard
-
Photos by Laurey Glenn

Floral designer Sybil Sylvester lives in color—the color of flowers. Her arrangements are often vibrant medleys of pinks, oranges, purples, and greens that work beautifully together but beg to be examined closely for their little nuances. Interior designer Rebecca Hawkins channeled this design approach when she helped Sybil and husband Bill transform their bedroom into a retreat they both could enjoy.

“When I first saw the room, it was dark—not like Sybil at all” Rebecca says. “The ceiling was low, and heavy curtains blocked the windows.” To lighten it up, Rebecca worked with Francis Bryant Construction to vault the ceiling and finish it in white oak. Walls were painted Wythe Blue (Benjamin Moore), and hardwood floors were updated with a custom bright blue.

For the rest of the room, Rebecca chose spirited colors spread across floral prints, embellished bed linens, graphic artwork, and cheerful accessories with fanciful flourishes—the same defining details that underscore Sybil’s happy arrangements.  

Modern design mixes with feminine touches in the bedroom. Soft Leotine linens and a curvaceous upholstered bed trimmed in hot pink offer a contrast to the graphic lines of the artwork (Susan Hable), TV chest, and light fixtures.
A Lee chair with brass frame is enlivened with a Jim Thompson floral. The Roman shade in a traditional Schumacher print with fringed trim offers more garden delights. The lamp and end table from Circa Interiors & Antiques lend contemporary flair. Artwork by Ashley Woodson Bailey is a double standout thanks to the electric green frame.

Color Connection

When it comes to living in full color, designer Rebecca Hawkins is a real pro. “Sybil, Bill, and I all LOVE color!” she says. Here, she offers tips for making color and pattern work in any space. 

Designer Rebecca Hawkins, a former magazine editor and stylist for Southern Accents, loves working with color, fabrics, and a variety of styles to create layers of interest personalized for her clients. IG: rebeccahawkinsinteriors

REST YOUR EYES
One key to a colorful room is incorporating some white so that the eye has a place to rest. “Since there was so much color in the fabrics, I kept the headboard and coverlet white so everything else would pop,” Rebecca says.

REPEAT PATTERN
A smattering of pillows dresses the bed in coordinated colors, with anchor patterns in the Roman shade and side chair. “I repeated the print from the shade on the bed and then played off the colors in both prints,” she says.  

GO BOLD
Rebecca wanted to add something bold to the bedroom. “I knew Bill loved the color orange, so I figured why not include a leather TV cabinet in that color?” she says. The hue of the custom piece is echoed in artwork and fabrics. The cabinet’s nailhead trim gives it a distinctive look. 

DON’T FORGET BLACK
“Every room needs a touch of black,”Rebecca says. “I especially love anything lacquered in the color.” Nightstands that flank the bed with style and storage fit both bills.

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A Serene Retreat on Smith Lake

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
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The stone used for the exterior is referred to as “overburden”—discarded top pieces that are typically unused while extracting the more valuable flagstone pavers underneath. John purchased the stone by the truckload from a nearby quarry. Photos by Jean Allsopp

John Hagefstration knows a thing or two about Smith Lake. He’s owned two other homes in the area and has invested in developments at the lake as well. So he knew just what to look for when searching for a piece of property to build his third lake home—and he certainly got it right.

Located on an isolated peninsula with a series of coves, the land offered the ideal lake trifecta: expansive water views, a sandy beach, and abundant privacy. And John didn’t waste any time calling on the ideal design duo to execute his vision. “I worked with Ben Shepard and Darla Davis on my last Smith Lake house and on significant renovations to a mid-century home in Mountain Brook,” says John. “We speak the same language when it comes to design.” Adds Ben, “We were all on the same page about our goals for the project—a house that feels tucked into the landscape with an emphasis on natural materials, along with sight lines that connect the spaces and embrace the views. This home suits John’s style and viewpoint in every respect.”

The pavilion features a stone fireplace adorned with a family crest-style placard featuring Addison and Ally, John’s two beloved golden retrievers. The placard also includes Latin phrases that translate into “My Happy Place” and “Belly Up” in tribute to the dogs’ love of lake like. The Serena & Lily sofa and club chairs pair with a coffee table from Mecox Gardens.

The stone house with its cedar shake roof feels both intimate and open. A double-rolled gable roof treatment on the façade makes for a cozy, welcoming introduction. Inside, FireRock concrete pavers seamlessly join the main living spaces to each other, as well as to the back terrace. The main bedrooms and bunkroom have oak floors laid in a herringbone pattern, imparting a separate identity to those private areas.

To keep the scale modest, as well as suitable for weekend living with or without guests, the architects designed a lower level with its own entrance and no interior staircase. “It feels more like a guest house than a lower story,” John says. “Sometimes I forget it’s even here.”

When it came to the furnishings, John wished to include existing custom pieces from his previous Smith Lake home. He worked with interior designer Andrew Brown to reimage his furniture collection by reupholstering items or using them in fresh locations while also introducing new custom pieces and finds. “We wanted the interiors to be free from fuss but still engaging with a subtle palette that conversed with the outside,” says Andrew.

The only sheetrock in the house is in the foyer, allowing for the installation of a Phillip Jefferies grasscloth wallpaper hand-painted by decorative artist Jan Roberts. “We wanted it to look like a 1930s Deco-inspired forest scene,” says designer Andrew Brown. A vintage Maison Jansen bench serves as seating or a drop zone. The Roman shade fabric is from King Cotton. Pavers by FireRock.
Pecky cypress cabinetry and a soapstone-topped island play into the natural elements found throughout the home. A brutalist-inspired chandelier from Mecox Gardens pairs with a Pierre Frey fabric at the window to maintain the neutral color scheme. Simple cuttings of Sweet Bay magnolia speak to the landscape beyond. Pavers by FireRock.
The bedside tables, topped with custom skirts and Greek key detailing, impart softness to the leather wall.
The simple but stylish main bathroom plays off the kitchen materials with its pecky cypress cabinetry and soapstone counter.

Both the exterior and interior design circle back to the beautiful natural setting with its canopy of trees. Landscape contractor Joey Bischoff incorporated native plants and trees throughout, such as Oak Leaf hydrangeas, Sweet Bay magnolias, wax myrtles, native azaleas, yaupons, and beautyberry shrubs.

The result of the whole stems from kindred spirits with a clear and focused vision to create an exceptional home in an exceptional location. This one just may have staying power. After all, third time’s a charm.

The lower floor’s covered terrace leads to the guest quarters. Folding shutters can be flung open or closed depending on the season. A zinc table and Klismos-style chairs from Restoration Hardware provide another dining and entertaining option. The concrete console table is from Mecox Gardens.
Outdoor living area overlooking Smith Lake
The FireRock concrete pavers used throughout the main living spaces extend to the expansive back terrace. Restoration Hardware chaise lounges offer relaxation with a view. The dining table and chairs are from Mecox Gardens.

John Hagefstration’s Take on the Lake

Location: I love the proximity of Smith Lake to Birmingham. I can make it in an hour. There is less traffic when you head north, no matter the time of day, and you don’t have to deal with Highway 280 headaches going or coming. 

Topography: Smith Lake comprises 550 miles of shoreline and has so many interesting and private peninsulas and coves. It has the feeling of a lake in the mountains. It’s so diverse, so you have to be very intentional when describing the location of your house—generalizations won’t cut it.

Water: It’s very deep, clean, and clear. In the spring, it reaches 510 feet above sea level at full pool. Then it goes down gradually to around 500 feet starting in July though early spring. That’s when the natural sand beaches on my property get bigger. I like that summer progression. 

Scene: Smith Lake has a casual, informal atmosphere. There’s no country club or golf club. People come to escape and entertain family and invited guests.

RESOURCES
Architects: Shepard & Davis, shepardanddavis.com Interior Design: Andrew Brown Interiors, andrewbrowninteriors.com Landscape Design & Installation: Joey Bischoff, 256.287.2434 Builder: Randall Walker Construction, 256.775.6577 Pavers and Fireplace: FireRock, firerock.us

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4 Fresh Gulf Seafood Recipes

By
Leslie Byars Register
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I love the ease of a small vacation rental or second home. Whether you are one step from the laundry room or two steps from the pantry, it’s all there at an arm’s reach. Life just seems simpler. The recipes below are perfect for that kind of living. You probably already have most of the ingredients on hand (such as flour or vegetable oil), and there is little cleanup required. 

The Shrimp-and-Corn Chowder comes together in one pot in well under an hour. You can make the West Indies Salad ahead (it needs to marinate for at least 8 hours), and serve it in individual jars for a quick lunch or sunset appetizer. Easy Peasy Crab Cakes—well, the name says it all. You can assemble and sauté them in no time. For the BBQ Shrimp Bake, all you need is one baking dish. And guess what? It serves as the centerpiece too! This spring, let’s simplify the prep work and enjoy more time with friends and family!

Bowl of Shrimp and Corn Chowder

Shrimp-and-Corn Chowder

6 slices thick-cut bacon
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 small green onions, thinly sliced, white and green parts divided
4 stalks celery, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels, about 4 ears
1 (14.75-ounce) can cream-style corn
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or less if desired
1 pound medium-size shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ cup half-and-half
Hot sauce for serving

Cook bacon in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until crisp. Remove the bacon from the pan to a paper towel-lined paper plate. Set aside. Discard all but 1 tablespoon bacon fat.

Add butter to pan. Add white part only of green onions, reserving tops for garnish. Add celery, and cook on medium heat until tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper. 

Sprinkle the flour over the top of the onion mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Add the fresh corn, cream-style corn, and cayenne. Bring to a boil, and let bubble until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in shrimp, and cook until shrimp turn pink, about 3 more minutes. Turn heat to low, and stir in half-and-half. 

Garnish with crumbled, cooked bacon and green onion tops. Add a dash of hot sauce, if desired. Serve immediately. Serves 8

Leslie’s Tip: To make this recipe even faster, I like to buy the shrimp already peeled and deveined. 

Plate of crab cakes

Easy Peasy Crab Cakes

1/3 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pound jumbo lump crabmeat
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 to 3 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
Vegetable or canola oil for frying
Remoulade Sauce (see recipe below)
Lemon wedges

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, egg, Dijon, Worcestershire, and hot sauce; season with salt and pepper. Set aside. 

In a medium bowl, stir together crabmeat, panko, and parsley. Fold into mayonnaise mixture, and then form into 8 patties. 

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, rotating pan to coat evenly, and heat until shimmering. Add crab cakes, and cook, in batches, until golden and crispy, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. 

Serve with Remoulade Sauce and lemon wedges. Serves 4 – 6

Remoulade Sauce

1¼ cups mayonnaise
¼ cup Creole mustard
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning
2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
2 teaspoons dill pickle juice
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 large garlic clove, minced

Mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl. Chill for several hours in the refrigerator before serving. Makes 1 1/2 cups

Learn from Leslie: I like to chill the formed patties on a baking sheet in the refrigerator for an hour or two before cooking. It makes them hold their shape nicely. They also can be made up to 24 hours in advance of sautéing. 

BBQ Shrimp Bake

1 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup olive oil 
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup lemon juice, from about 2 lemons
2 tablespoons ground black pepper
1 tablespoon hot sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
4 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
3 pounds unpeeled medium to large shrimp
2 lemons, thinly sliced
Fresh basil leaves for garnish, optional
French bread

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

Combine first 9 ingredients in a medium-size bowl. Pour half of the mixture into a large baking dish. Layer shrimp and lemon slices in sauce, and pour remaining sauce over shrimp and lemons. 

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring twice, or until shrimp are pink. 

Place baking dish in the middle of the table, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve with crusty French bread for dipping and lots of paper towels! Serves 6

Learn from Leslie: This is the one recipe for which I choose paper over cloth napkins. Trust me—this one can get messy, but it’s so worth it!

West Indies Salad

1 pound jumbo lump crabmeat
1 medium onion, chopped
3/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup ice water
Salt and pepper to taste
Saltine crackers

Place crabmeat in a medium-size bowl; top with onion. Add oil, vinegar, and ice water. Cover and chill 6 to 8 hours. 

Stir mixture, add salt and pepper, and serve with saltine crackers. Makes about 2 cups

Leslie Likes: For individual servings, serve West Indies Salad in ½-cup canning jars. To dress up the jars, simply place the canning rings back on the rims without the lids.

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A Mountain Brook Garden Transformation

By
Lydia Somerville
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The patio enjoys both a firepit and the sound of a splashing fountain. Photos by Jean Allsopp

A lush grassy slope is lovely to behold but not so practical for cocktails in the garden with friends. When a client approached garden designer Troy Rhone about turning the steep hill behind her home into a space for entertaining, he responded with a vision for a progression of outdoor rooms. A pea gravel area centered on a sundial serves as an entryway into the outdoor retreat.

“We wanted the lower garden to form a quadrant around the sundial,” says Troy. “But we worked hard to keep it from being too formal. The casualness of the pea gravel helped with that.” The crunch of gravel underfoot also signals a transition toward a calming experience, slower and quieter than the household hustle. 

Working with remnants of the exisiting backyard, Troy carved into the hillside to create a series of flattened, terraced rooms. He extended a pair of brick planters to create a raised bed that defines both the garden entry and seating area. Steps lead from the entry level up to the terrace where outdoor seating and a firepit offer a place to enjoy company. 

To make the garden feel mature quickly, Troy employed some maneuvers that would defy the appearance of a new installation. Pavers and bricks were laid without mortar, and Troy seeded the steps, borders, and terrace with moss to add texture and dimension. He also planted creeping fig and smilax to soften the new brick wall. A collection of garden ornaments, including a fountain from Architectural Heritage, lichen-covered teak benches, and a coral-and-iron table with mirror above, brings antiques and old world appointments into the space. 

Perennials and annuals are abundant, chosen for their quick growth, while established boxwoods lend visual weight. In the spring, purple and white pansies serve as ground cover, warming the roots of the still-bare crepe myrtles. In shady areas, a variety of hostas, ferns, lamb’s ears, and impatiens flourish in hues of green and white. Above the seating area, a bank of blue and pink French hydrangeas bloom in abundance. Further in, a grassy lawn is staked with a row of Adirondack chairs situated for basking in the sun or enjoying a quiet moment.

Thanks to the introduction of garden rooms, carefully chosen accessories, and plantings guaranteed to thrive in the Birmingham climate, the garden presents itself as a well-established landscape, grown slowly and well-tended over time.

Around the Garden

In the corners of the pea gravel terrace, Troy planted a lush mixture of ferns, variegated hostas, and Lenten roses. Smilax and creeping fig frame the arched opening which leads to a walkway down the side of the house.

An array of weathered orbs and planters complements the home’s stuccoed exterior.

A glazed planter full of herbs, lavender, and scaevola makes a centerpiece for the dining table that will last through the summer.

RESOURCES
Garden Design: Troy Rhone Sundial: Foxglove Antiques Fountain: Architectural Heritage Mirror above bar: Foxglove Antiques. Bar table: Antiquities Outdoor furniture: Niermann Weeks

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A Fresh Faced Bath

By
BHG Staff
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Bathroom vanity and adjacent shower.
New paint on walls and trim (White Dove, Benjamin Moore), as well as the addition of Calacatta Gold marble tile (Triton Stone), creates a crisp, clean look. The designers kept the original diamond-paned, leaded-glass window beside the tub. New crystal knobs add a little sparkle to the vanity. Photography by Jean Allsopp

When you have beautiful architecture, it’s easy to update a space just by resurfacing,” says designer Kristi Freeman, co-owner of Catori Design House. Along with her business partner, Terra Bonner, Kristi brought a whole new look to the bath in this 27-year-old home without moving a wall or changing the floor plan. “Our clients built the house, but after so many years, some of their original choices had gone out of style,” says Kristi. “They wanted to add updated products for a fresh look.” Aside from new surfaces, fixtures, and paint, the biggest change was the new bathtub. “Back then, the only freestanding tubs available were clawfoot tubs,” Kristi says. 

Before and after of bathtub.
The original bath enjoyed an old-school soaking tub. To update the space, the designers took out the casement and replaced the fixture with an elegant free-standing tub from Ferguson.

Working with builder JL Crosby Construction, the team demolished the existing cased tub. “We took our client down to the Ferguson showroom and had her sit in several new tubs to try them out,” Kristi says. “It had to be both pretty and comfortable.”

Kristi and Terra’s Picks

Impactful Upgrade: 
Lighting! It’s like the jewelry to an outfit. We chose the Talia Chandelier from Circa Lighting because of its resemblance to bath bubbles. 

Here to Stay:
Brass accents. In frames or accessories such as candlesticks and trays, this classic material continues to endure.

Ready to see it go: 
Industrial appointments. Traditional fixtures and finishes remain timeless.

Can never go wrong with:
Polished nickel plumbing. 

Favorite products: 
Creed perfumes and Lollia Wish bubble bath.

“A well-built house with a good design is always a wise investment. There’s no reason to rebuild something just for the sake of rebuilding.”

Kristi Freeman, Catori Design House

Expert Insights from VW Gallerie

STAYING POWER:
Chrome and brushed nickel finishes keep a bath current. For a statement, try matte black or champagne bronze. 

Living finishes:
When you select a living finish such as unlacquered brass, it’s important to understand that when it’s manufactured, it is polished and shiny. Over time, the air and your cleaning products, as well as simply touching the faucet, will make it patina beautifully.    

Faucets and handles:
Taller spouts allow more room for handwashing and cleaning the sink. Fixtures with softer edges are gaining momentum over angles and modern styles. 

Gadgets:
Electric mirrors are lighted and come with Bluetooth capabilities and TV projection. Kohler’s Intelligent Toilets offer integrated cleansing functions, heated seats, a nightlight, a warm air dryer, and a deodorizer. The seat can be raised and lowered via remote.   

Freestanding or Cabinets?
A pedestal sink works best in smaller half baths or pool baths where there’s not a great need for storage. 

Contact:

Catori Design House: catoridesignhouse.com – 205.907.5499 – Instagram: @catoridesignhouse

VW Gallerie: vwplumbingsupply.com – 205.831.4773 – Instagram: @vwgallerie

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Fast, Flavorful Veggie-Filled Recipes

By
Leslie Byars Register
-

By the time the new year rolls around, I am ready for a fresh start. I’ve eaten everything I can get my hands on during the holidays, so I start to crave healthier foods and anything green. Living next door to a well-stocked grocery store for the last year has made me realize how many vegetables I rarely cook.

These colorful, fast, and flavorful recipes are helping me change that. In the steak salad, I prefer to use a New York strip because it doesn’t need to marinate all day—and it tastes pretty darn good! The sesame salmon and veggies all cook on one baking sheet and are ready in about 15 minutes. I also threw in a warm, comforting tomato soup that starts with canned tomatoes and is ready in under an hour. So let’s branch out, get back in the kitchen, and keep up our healthy eating goals. We can do it!

Fennel-Apple-Celery Slaw

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 large fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
2 Granny Smith apples, halved and cored, thinly sliced
3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fennel fronds
1/2 cup toasted walnuts
1/2 cup Parmesan, shaved with a vegetable peeler
Celery leaves for garnish

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in oil, continuously whisking, until dressing is emulsified. Taste and add more lemon juice or salt if needed. 

In a large bowl, toss the dressing with fennel, apple, and celery. Fold in fennel fronds and walnuts. Top with Parmesan and celery leaves. Serves 8

Learn from Leslie: Dressing can be made the day before serving. Store in the refrigerator. Toss with salad ingredients up to 1 hour before serving.

Fennel Facts: If you have never worked with fennel before, here are a few helpful preparation tips. Look for smaller bulbs. They will be more tender than the larger bulbs. Remove the fronds (dill-looking feathery part) and stalks. (Reserve the fronds for later use in the recipe.) Trim off the bottom of the bulb with a sharp knife. Then cut the bulb in half lengthwise. Remove the triangular-shaped core at the bottom of each half of the bulb. Discard any discolored outer pieces, and thinly slice the bulb horizontally. 

Sesame Glazed Salmon with Baby Broccoli, Carrots, and Edamame

2 tablespoons Sriracha chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 teaspoon honey
4 salmon fillets
2 to 3 bunches baby broccoli, ends trimmed and any leaves removed
2 large carrots, peeled and cut into ribbons with a peeler
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Frozen Edamame shelled beans (cooked according to package instructions)
Lime wedges

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In a shallow dish, mix together chili sauce and next 4 ingredients. Lay the salmon fillets in the marinade, skin-side up, and set aside for 15 minutes.

Place broccoli and carrots on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with a generous amount of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Using your hands, toss to coat completely, and spread in an even layer, leaving room for the salmon in the middle. Place salmon fillets skin-side down; sprinkle salmon with sesame seeds, and roast in the oven for 15 minutes.

Serve with warm Edamame beans and  lime wedges. Serves 4

Comforting Creamy Tomato Soup

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, chopped
2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes in their juice (Leslie prefers San Marzano)
½ cup water
½ cup whipping cream
Fresh basil leaves (about 10 to 12)
1 tablespoon sugar
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon celery seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
French Bread Croutons (recipe below)

In a Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil. Add the onion and garlic, and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes with their juices and the next 7 ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the tomatoes. 

Remove from the heat, and allow soup to cool for a few minutes. In a blender in batches, puree until smooth. Return the soup to a clean pot, and rewarm if needed. Ladle into bowls, and serve with French Bread Croutons. Serves 4 – 6

French Bread Croutons: Cube several slices of French bread into ½-inch pieces; set aside. In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until it begins to brown. Scrape butter from the skillet, and place in a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, and add the diced bread, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly browned. Remove from the heat, and stir in the browned butter. 

New York Strip Salad

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Montreal Steak Seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 (16-ounce) Prime New York strip steak
8 to 10 cups chopped Romaine hearts
4 ears corn, cooked and cut off the cob
2 avocados, sliced
1 cup grape tomatoes, cut in half
1 bunch green onions, sliced
Pickled Red Onions (recipe below)
Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing (recipe below)

Combine 1 tablespoon olive oil and next 3 ingredients in a shallow dish. Place steak into marinade, and allow steak to come to room temperature, about 1 to 2 hours. 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet to medium-high. Pat steak dry with a paper towel, and sear for a few minutes on each side. Place skillet into preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until medium-rare to medium doneness. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. 

On a dinner-size plate, arrange lettuce, corn, avocados, tomatoes, green onions, and Pickled Red Onions. Serve with Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing. Serves 2 – 3

Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing

1 large bunch cilantro
1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt
1 garlic clove
Juice of 2 limes
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 jalapeño, seeded

Combine all ingredients into a food processor. Pulse until smooth. Adjust salt to taste, if desired. The dressing will keep up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Makes about 2 cups

Pickled Red Onions

1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

Stir together all ingredients in a medium bowl. Place in a pint jar, and cover. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours. The pickles will keep up to 2 weeks. Makes 2 cups

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Designer Jan Ware Adds Bold Style to a New Build

By
Laura Kostelny
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The steel-framed front door opens to the entry where artwork by Michele James, a vellum console table, and an antique plaster bust foreshadow the interesting mélange of items throughout the house. Photos by Jean Allsopp

Finding a home with instant character usually means taking on a custom build or buying an older, updated home imbued with layers of history and patina. And finding that home in the neighborhood you want to live in can be as challenging as uncovering the proverbial needle in a haystack. Such was the case for these longtime, Atlanta-based clients of interior designer Jan Ware. “My friend and her husband had been wanting to build a house in Buckhead for years,” Jan says. But when a spec home became available on a desirable street, the couple nixed the idea of starting from scratch and decided to massage the finishes to suit themselves and their four sons. 

“The house was still in the very early stages of construction,” Jan says of the cottage-style plan designed by Amanda Orr Architects. Fortunately, that gave the couple plenty of time to step in and add their own touches. It also helped that Jan was willing to make the trek down I-20 from her Birmingham headquarters. 

Jan converted the home’s designated dining room into a sitting room because of its proximity to the wine cellar. Now the owners use this space for entertaining. The designer added drama and depth with wainscoting and a custom blue color on the walls that matches the Hermès fabric on the bolster and dining chairs. Other rooms are painted Snowbound (Sherwin-Williams). The settee and sofa, covered in outdoor fabric and performance velvet, are by Jan.
The sitting room’s walls perfectly complement “Fluttering” by artist Yury Darashkevich.

Still in the framing stages with David Siegel Design and Construction, the house was set to take on the classic, cottage architecture exhibited by the other homes on the street, but the owners wanted to move it in a more contemporary direction. With a few smart tweaks, Jan pushed the structure across the line by adding some striking appointments and dramatic finishes to create a California contemporary feel while still allowing the house to harmonize with its neighbors.

Architecturally, the designer introduced custom floor-to-ceiling, steel windows and doors across the front and rear of the house to open it up to the outdoors. She withheld ornate mouldings, opting instead for wide casings. Sheetrocked walls became canvases for color and drama.

The dining room houses a live-edge table with iron base. Chairs are bleached oak frames with brass detailing. The leather chandelier was handmade by women artisans in Africa. Lacquered vintage chests inset with brass flank the dining room window. Italian art deco mirrors and matching lamps put the spotlight on works by Arthur Price.
Every hour is happy at the built-in bar, which features custom black-plaster walls, sleek black cabinetry, and brass appointments, including the brass-wrapped shelf and gleaming hardware.

Jan also wasn’t shy about swapping rooms around. For instance, the dining room was much better suited as a sitting room thanks to its adjacency to the glass-paned wine cellar. “My clients host a lot of events, so I really concentrated on how all the rooms were going to flow when they entertained,” says Jan. With the exchange, the formal living room became the dining room, a welcoming space just inside the entry. 

Certain upholstered items offer transitional style while other pieces, such as the dining chairs and tables, lean midcentury modern. Contrasts and black accents play to the edgy look, giving the interiors depth while also emphasizing the gleam of metallic accents in the light fixtures, art, accessories, and furniture. As Jan explains, it’s that level of attention to every detail that made this spec house feel extra special. 

Mixed Metals: Jan created a jewel box-like powder room by hanging a dreamy, abstract wallpaper with the slightest silvery shimmer. Brass accents add even more shine.
Natural materials, such as the cedar beams, white oak shelving, live-edge sofa table, and polished wood bowl by Moulthrop Studios, bring the outdoors in. A seagrass rug underfoot grounds an assembly of brushed cotton and tweed upholstery—all performance fabrics.
Warren Platner-style, Italian chairs pair with a tulip table in the light-and-bright, eat-in breakfast spot overlooking the covered porch and pool.
Silver, gray, and white accents create a sublime scene in the master bedroom.
The tub enjoys sweeping views.

Jan Ware Designs: Janwaredesigns.com; IG: janwaredesigns

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Designer Spotlight: Virginia McCary

By
BHG Staff
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Portrait of Virginia McCary
Virginia McCary // Photo by Mary Fehr

Virginia McCary launched her firm in 2016 after studying business and interior design and then gaining invaluable experience working with designer Iris Thorpe. Her projects range from renovations and additions to full-scale interiors.

“I was born and raised in the South with a grandmother who had a strong appreciation for and knowledge of antiques. What I learned from her has been part of me for as long as I can remember.”

Virginia McCary

Personal Style

I believe homes should be curated, timeless, and inviting. I also believe in creating spaces that are equally beautiful, livable, and comfortable. 

Inspired By

Travel! I love learning the history of every destination I visit through the local architecture, culture, food, and beyond. A favorite activity is “house-stalking” through residential neighborhoods in other cities. I never mind taking the long way or the backroads that weave through streets with beautiful homes to study the architecture and design. I love a house that looks like it has been there forever. 

Shopping Local

ALKMY is one of my favorite spots. I think they do a great job of stocking unique gift items, as well as home decor and vintage pieces. If I am on the hunt, I frequent Tricia’s Treasures and The Nest. I can always count on finding something for a current project or even myself. Maison by Pam Evans and Maison de France are also at the top of the list when sourcing for client projects. For art, I usually start at Design Supply. A few other favorites include Circa Interiors & Antiques, Ex Voto Vintage, and Etc.

Favorite Personal Item

I am a collector, so narrowing it down is hard! If I had to choose, it would be the giltwood lantern by Formations that I found at Scott Antiques Market for far less than half price. It is currently in my dining room, but it could be used in almost any room of the house. It would make a great entryway fixture or could even hang in a master bathroom. Also, I can never resist a beautiful chest.

Favorite Room to Design

I have so much fun with children’s rooms. These are the places to be fun and take risks with color and pattern.

Virginia McCary Design • virginiamccarydesign.com, IG: @virginiamccarydesign 

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Step into Le Weekend every day!

By
Cathy Still McGowin
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Molly Dance Murphy, Director of Operations and Courtenay Pyburn Bullock (right) Owner of Le Weekend.
Molly Dance Murphy, Director of Operations (left) Courtenay Pyburn Bullock, Owner – Photography by Mary Fehr

Birmingham is excited to have a new place to shop! Tell us about yourselves and how Le Weekend came about?

Courtenay: My father owns Harrison Limited, a men’s clothing store in Mountain Brook Village. At an early age, I learned to appreciate well-tailored, thoughtful clothing. After studying fashion design at Auburn University, I moved to New York City with my husband, Zach, and worked for brands like Milly, Roxanne Assoulin, and Theory. It was then that I reconnected with Molly. She was completing a summer internship in public relations.

Molly: After graduating from Mississippi State University, I had intended to live in New York, but God had other plans. An internship with Birmingham Home & Garden led to my three-year-long career with KC Projects, a Birmingham PR firm, where I worked with clients such as Full Moon BBQ, 1818 Farms, and Nequette Architecture & Design. I married my husband, Matthew, in July 2021. Soon after, Courtenay asked if I would be interested in being her business partner. I said yes, of course! When I was growing up, my mom owned Mustard Seeds, a retail clothing store, and I was always interested in returning to that field. Plus, I had always admired Courtenay’s creativity.

What kind of outfits will customers find at Le Weekend, and where will they wear them?

Courtenay: All of our pieces are transitional and buildable. A Kule T-shirt with a cashmere cable-knit Derek Lam sweatsuit is perfect for croissants and coffee at Continental Bakery. Citizen jeans and a pair of Ann Mashburn buckle shoes will take you shopping through the villages in style before lunch at Chez Fon Fon. For drinks with friends at Paper Doll and a late dinner at LeFresca, you can’t go wrong with a Rhode silk skirt and a chunky Baum sweater. Evenings at home are best served with a glass of red wine and our favorite Sleeper Party Pajamas. (They’re trimmed in feathers!)

How about accessories?

Courtenay: We love the rule of three. By simply adding one more layer to your outfit, it allows you to showcase your personal style. It could be a belt, blazer, purse, or necklace—really anything! We have shoes, jewelry, and casual bags to help. Oh—and don’t forget a pair of Chimi shades—always!

What inspired you to choose the lines you carry?

Courtenay: When I lived in New York, my favorite Saturday activity was stopping in all the shops along Madison Avenue. The store clerks never made me feel like I had to purchase something; I just enjoyed the unique experience and atmosphere each store offered. For Le Weekend, I wanted to bring back that feeling and create a replication of the places I loved in my hometown.

What was involved in making your store so inviting?

Courtenay: It was a dream to collaborate with friend and designer Jeremy Clark (Jeremy D. Clark Studio). I want each person who walks in to feel immediately welcomed—much like you are trying on clothes in your living room with your best friends. Jeremy’s focus is residential design, which is exactly why I wanted him to transform this space into something familiar yet sophisticated.

Why English Village?

English Village is really being revamped by a new wave of entrepreneurs and businesses—Jeremy D. Clark, Sarah Stewart Consulting, The Atelier, Keystone Commons. Molly and I both live within a mile of the store, and it just felt right to create something in our own backyard. We also have amazing neighbors such as Continental Bakery, Vino, Chez Lulu, and Monkee’s that have been a staple in the village for a long time. It was the perfect concoction.

“Every piece in the store embodies the free spirit of the weekend—whether you are lounging around or enjoying lengthy dinners with loved ones. Le Weekend is a place where Mondays don’t exist. We truly have something for everyone, even if it’s just conversation.”

Courtenay Pyburn Bullock

Contact:

Le Weekend: 1917 Cahaba Road • 205.767.6857 • Instagram: @leweekendstudio

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Grisham Tolbert Interiors – Designer Spotlight

By
BHG Staff
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Eleanor Tolbert, Virginia Grisham, and sidekick Milo of Grisham Tolbert Interiors.
Eleanor Tolbert (left) and Virginia Grisham (right) Sidekick: Milo – Photography by Mary Fehr

“Life should be a celebration and the home is often its main stage. We strive to create timeless, elegant, and pleasing designs that will make a home more inviting, more comfortable, and more nurturing.”

Grisham Tolbert Interiors

Personal style?

Eleanor: I enjoy mixing modern and traditional pieces. I love color, a good stripe, and floral prints. I am obsessed with wallpaper! If I could wallpaper my entire house, I would.

Virginia: I love pops of color, dark wood, antiques, and upholstered pieces in natural linen. I like mixing genres, such as a great grandmother’s table with a new white sofa. And wallpaper is always fun!

How do you approach a project for a client?

Eleanor: We love taking our client’s personal style and helping elevate it to the next level. We work hard to bring clients’ dreams for their homes into stunning or understated reality. Typically, that includes adding fresh new pieces with clean lines alongside existing furniture or antiques and then slowly adding layers of texture through lighting, artwork, drapery, and rugs. We love playing
with scale, form, and texture to bring interest to each room or space. And we love working our way through an entire home, one room at a time, starting with just a single room and then moving on to the next space whenever the client is ready to proceed. Remember, design is a process, not a sprint.

Virginia: I am not going to advise a client to spend money on something unless it’s important to them. If we need the budget to cover an expensive fabric that the client loves, we like balancing it out with some less expensive items that are good quality and well-priced so we stay within budget.

Cannot wait to use…

Chelwood Wallpaper in green from the Ashdown Collection by Nina Campbell for Osborne & Little. It’s classic and timeless and one of our favorite colors. We also love the Cora Sofa from the Bunny Williams Home collection. It’s a fun piece that would add a statement to

any room. Mizzle by Farrow & Ball is a go-to color for us. It’s a soft green that looks great on everything from a front door to cabinets—even a whole room.

Local mentors:

Cyndy Cantley, Cantley & Company, Mary Evelyn Interiors, Jan Ware Designs, Sallie Aman with Ruby Ansley Interiors, Allene Neighbors (Virginia’s aunt)

Best Advice:

Starting out:

Virginia: Graciously accept any furniture that your family is willing to give you. Then, if you can, purchase one antique or one piece of furniture that you really love every year. Over time, you will build a collection of furnishings and family history that reflects your personal style as it evolves naturally.

For downsizing:

Eleanor: Choose your most favorite furniture pieces and take those to
your new home first. Then, fill in the space with other less-favorite items if necessary. Typically, once a homeowner has taken all their favorite pieces and staged them in their home, they realize what’s truly important to them and are then more willing to part with items left behind.

Contact:

Grisham Tolbert Interiors: Instagram – @GrishamTolbertInteriors – grishamtolbert.com

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