Molly and Jeremy Bolton’s front stoop welcomes guests with a doormat that reads “Home Sweet Home.” That kind sentiment is enough to make anyone feel welcome, but once you open the door, it’s the delightful aroma of baked goods that makes you want to sit at the kitchen island and stay awhile.
Founder of The Nostalgic Crumb, she started baking as a way to revive memories of her childhood. A Dallas native, Molly says that baking was a regular activity with her mom and grandmother, affectionately known as JuJu. “Every time I bake JuJu’s poundcake, its scent takes me straight back to Amarillo,” Molly says, referring to her grandmother’s hometown.
“Whenever I’m at a loss for recipes, I just look in JuJu’s box. I’m such a sucker for a well-worn recipe card that’s faded and marked with batter.”
Those sweet memories turned into a passion when Molly found herself not just baking but also developing new recipes and ideas to blog and photograph. “At first, I tried selling my baked goods, but it got complicated because I’m a one-woman show and the orders were so varied. That’s when I shifted my focus,” she says.
With The Nostalgic Crumb, Molly has multiple goals—to develop recipes for brands, to provide content for publications, and to write a cookbook. She also hopes to open a teaching kitchen one day. Right now, Molly’s favorite people to cook for include husband Jeremy and her two children, Francie and Elliott. “My true passion is homemaking and loving my family, and I enjoy sharing that with others,” she says.
Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
With chewy, caramelized edges; soft centers; and loads of chocolate, this thick, bakery-style cookie leaves you wanting absolutely nothing!
Cook Time: 16 minutes Total Time: 24 hours, 30 minutes (includes chill time) Yield: 15–18 large cookies
226 grams (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened 250 grams (11/4 cups) lightly packed light brown sugar 100 grams (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 1 large egg plus 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 312 grams (21/2 cups) spooned and leveled all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 113 grams (4 ounces) high-quality semisweet chocolate, chopped 165 grams (3/4 cup) semisweet chocolate chips
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add butter, brown sugar, and sugar, and beat on medium speed until combined and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
Mix in egg and egg yolk, one at a time, making sure that the first is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, kosher salt, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder. Add the flour mixture to the batter in 2 additions, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix. Using a rubber spatula, fold in chopped chocolate and chocolate chips by hand.
Tightly cover the dough, and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, preferably up to 24 hours (TIP: the longer you chill the dough, the more flavorful and golden the cookies will be!).
Preheat the oven to 350°F, and line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Using a #16 spring-loaded cookie scoop, scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing 3 to 4 inches apart.
Bake for 14-17 minutes, preferably one cookie sheet at a time, until edges are golden brown and centers are set. Remove from the oven and allow to set on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.
NOTE: I develop my recipes in grams because weighing your ingredients is the best, most accurate way to bake.
When a Birmingham family that loves to golf needed a multifunctional green space to gather with loved ones and engage in family competitions, the answer was a synthetic turf putting green.
While “Astroturf” is synonymous with its 1960s heyday, a la The Brady Bunch backyard, today’s synthetic turf looks natural. “This turf has become something different than the beach vacation miniature golf product,” says Daniel McCurry, co-founder and CEO of Father Nature Landscapes. “It is a highly studied, high-tech option that supports stimp, the roll speed of golf balls, much like a grass putting green.”
Daniel explains that most of the putting green spaces they design are multifunctional. “Our mission is to assist our clients in better connecting with their friends and family in their custom outdoor living environment,” he says. “In this case, the wife wanted her children, sisters, and friends to be able to get together by a fire and talk, while the husband wanted the same but through competition with his sons on a putting green.”
“Blending syntheticturf into its natural surroundings might include planting a border of dwarf evergreen grass. It also helps to not place the turf within view of an expanse of natural grass.”
Daniel McCurry, Father Nature Landscapes
The Father Nature team designed a green that delivers a dynamic practice experience for the skilled father and sons but also provides fun for players of any level when the homeowners host friends and family. In addition, the design offers a seating area in front of a wood-burning fireplace for a more intimate outdoor entertaining experience.
Daniel explains that the use of synthetic turf is essential to the function of a home putting green. “A real turf putting surface requires an incredible amount of maintenance,” he says. “For this project, we chose Southwest Greens synthetic turf.”
According to Daniel, many varieties of modern synthetic turf emulate the look of a variety of grasses, including Bentgrass, Bermuda, and Zoysia. Brown, curled blades woven into the base of the surface provide a more realistic look of dirt beneath the “sod” while providing a bounce similar to the feel of a real lawn underfoot. “You really have to lay on the grass and touch it to figure out that it is synthetic,” Daniel says. He notes that while there definitely are instances where natural grass can’t be beat, lawns that are highly-used and heavily shaded are ideal candidates for artificial turf.
For this family, the turf allows everyone to enjoy gathering on the lawn, whether to play golf or simply enjoy relaxing by the fire. “Spending time outside with family and friends is one of the best ways to make lasting memories,” Daniel says.
Synthetic Turf vs. Natural Turf
Synthetic turf comes with some advantages and disadvantages for the homeowner, just like natural grass. “Synthetic turf fits with the goal of having a lower maintenance lawn—no more cutting,” says Daniel McCurry of Father Nature Landscapes. “It also has grown in popularity due to environmental concerns.” Real turf for a putting green requires daily mowing, fans, water, fertilizers, pesticides, aeration, topdress, and more. Adds Daniel, “We do irrigate (artificial lawns) to keep the surface clean of dust, as well as to wash off pet urine and keep it cooler during the summer.”
Daniel also notes that while the initial cost of synthetic turf may be higher and the installation is more labor intensive, the cost of maintaining natural grass lawns over time comes at a higher price tag.
COUNTLESS HOBBYISTS HAVE WHILED AWAY AFTERNOONS doing things they love while wondering if their passion could ever turn into a bonified career. As a culinary school graduate of Johnson & Wales—Miami, Adam Hickman had earned the enviable position of cooking and working with food for a good part of his career, developing recipes for Cooking Light and Food & Wine. But after he got his first beehive in 2012, his afternoons and weekends were spent beekeeping. A few years later, he began to work on monetizing the hobby, first selling honey and then becoming a trusted local resource for beekeeping and related equipment. As the bee business began humming, Adam found himself burning the (beeswax) candle at both ends as he tried to balance his daytime career with his honey venture. Enter one global pandemic and a forced work-from- home status, and Fox Hound Bee Company became Adam’s full-time gig.
“If you had asked me a couple years ago where my business would be, I would have never thought I’d be right in the middle of downtown. My downtown bees actually do better than any of the bees that I have in more agricultural areas around Birmingham.”
Fox Hound Bee Company offers more than just honey—what else do you do?
We take care of our bees, we take care of other people’s bees, and we get honey production from those as well. We also teach beekeepers and supply them with equipment. I have hives all over town, but this is where we can sell to the public and meet with people to talk bees.
It sounds like the pandemic was a boon to your business.
It definitely was. When I first started Fox Hound years ago, I did so with a blog where we just answered questions for beekeepers to help them learn the skills. During the pandemic, I had more time at home to grow the business. Beekeeping was one of those hobbies that a lot of people took up at that time while they were kind of stuck at home. I was already a resource for beekeepers, so it grew from there.
Talk about that growth. As a small- batch entrepreneur, how do handle it?
This may sound strange, but I actually did my best to slow the growth as much as possible. I am a firm believer in too much growth too quickly leads to a lot of mistakes and possibly failure. I didn’t want to expand too fast and make big mistakes with big costs. People think that as a small business, you just sell this product and that’s it. But you also have to be an accountant. You have to be a marketing person. You have to be a logistics manager and offer customer support. You’ve got to be a web designer. There are all these things that you end up having to do that you didn’t really anticipate needing to do.
The best use of the honey is to eat it raw just like the bees made it. Of course, it is pretty great on waffles and biscuits too.
Talk sweet to us. Tell us more.
We actually sell some of the honey by zip code, and customers love that. It might sound crazy but you can look at a jar of honey from Bessemer and it looks different than one from Avondale or Hoover hives. A lot of customers use the honey to combat allergies, so knowing the location of the honey is a real plus. We also make a bourbon honey by filling spent bourbon barrels, still wet with whiskey, with honey and letting it take on the flavors of the charred oak and bourbon. Every bottle comes with a piece of the barrel added. Customer love that. The same goes with our Korean chili hot honey; you can see the chili flakes in the jar.
Working downtown & sticking together.
After years of working out of my home garage, I finally have a brick-and-mortar warehouse and retail location at Hardware Park in downtown Birmingham. The entrepreneurial world is a little bit lonely sometimes, so it’s nice to work alongside all these other entrepreneurs. We’re all going through the same kinds of successes and failures together, and we can kind of relate to each other.
When you start cooking and applying heat to honey (anything over 105°), it diminishes a lot of the properties that make honey nuanced and special. So I really like to treat our honey as I would finishing salts, basically drizzling it over things.
Because I don’t want to miss a single minute by the pool, on the golf course, or in the backyard, I prefer to make cocktails and appetizers as easy and fresh as possible. That means less time in the kitchen and more time with friends and family.
The Sweet Corn Salsa, Tangy Herb Ranch Dip, and Tricolored Cherry Tomato Bruschetta become even tastier over time, so feel free to make these a day ahead.
Be sure to also try the Watermelon Margarita. It’s a refreshing way to make use of a large, seedless melon. And if you have never had a Kentucky Mule, it’s time to saddle up! This is a bourbon lover’s dream come true on a hot summer night.
Relax and enjoy the longer days, fresh-market finds, and these easy-to-tote recipes. This is what summer is all about.
Kentucky Mule
MAKES 1 DRINK
Ice 1 1/2 ounces bourbon 3 ounces ginger beer 1/2 ounce lime juice Lime slices and fresh mint for garnish
Fill a copper cup or julep cup with ice. Add bourbon, ginger beer, and lime juice. Stir to combine. Garnish with lime slices and fresh mint.
Sweet Corn Salsa
MAKES ABOUT 5 CUPS
6 ears sweet fresh corn, kernels removed 1 red bell pepper 1 orange bell pepper 4 green onions 1 to 2 jalapeños, seeded 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Tortilla chips
Dressing: 1/4 cup olive oil 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar Juice of one lime, plus extra slices for garnish 1 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Salt and pepper to taste
Bring a large pot filled with water to a boil. Add corn, and cook for 5 to 10 minutes or until tender. Remove from the pot, and allow to cool.
Chop next 4 ingredients finely and uniformly (about the size of a corn kernel), and place in a medium-size bowl. Add red onion and cilantro. With a sharp knife, remove the kernels from the cob, and add to the vegetables.
In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients. Pour over corn and vegetables, and toss to coat thoroughly. Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least an hour. The salsa is best made in advance and will keep for several days.
Serve with tortilla chips.
Watermelon Margarita
MAKES 2 TO 3 DRINKS
Ice 6 ounces fresh watermelon juice (from about 1 1/2 cups seedlesswatermelon cubes, blended and strained) 2 ounces blanco tequila 2 ounces fresh lime juice 2 ounces Cointreau (optional) Salt for the rims (optional) Garnish with a lime, nasturtium, or watermelon wedge
Place ice, watermelon juice, tequila, lime juice, and, if desired, Cointreau in a martini shaker. Shake vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds.
Salt the rims of the glasses, if desired, and pour mixture through the strainer of the shaker into the glasses. Garnish and serve immediately.
Tangy Herb Ranch Dip
MAKES 2 CUPS
1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup sour cream 1/4 cup fresh dill, minced, plus an extra sprig for garnish 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced 2 tablespoons fresh chives 2 tablespoons fresh basil, minced 2 tablespoons white vinegar 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon paprika Dash of Worcestershire sauce Dash of hot sauce 1/4 cup buttermilk
Combine all ingredients in a small jar. Shake to combine thoroughly. Adjust thickness consistency with more buttermilk if needed. Chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. This can be made a day or two in advance.
Garnish and serve with assorted fresh summer vegetables.
Leslie Likes: Real mayonnaise and sour cream, not light.
Tricolored Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
MAKES ABOUT 4 CUPS
2 pints tricolored cherry tomatoes, quartered 2 cloves minced fresh garlic 1/2 cup fresh chopped basil, plus morefor garnish 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for baguette 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar 1/2 teaspoon sugar Salt and pepper to taste 1 French baguette
In a medium-sized bowl, combine tomatoes, garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine completely. Allow to sit for at least an hour either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. (I like to do it both ways, depending on if I want the tomatoes chilled.)
Before serving, slice the French baguette into 1⁄4-inch slices.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, nd drizzle with olive oil. Preheat broiler in oven, and then toast bread until golden brown. Serve tomato mixture on toasted bread, and garnish with fresh basil.
Learn from Leslie: If there are any leftovers, which I doubt there will be, this makes a light, refreshing sauce over grilled fish or chicken.
Leslie Likes: For an added attraction spread a thin layer of creamy burrata on the toasted bread before adding the tomato mixture
If you’re looking for high-end tile in Birmingham, including decorative, domestic, imported, Alabama made, and allied tile products, as well as stone surfaces, Robert F. Henry Tile is a one-stop destination. Since 1933, the company has been a leading provider of the beautiful and durable tile in Birmingham, and they have grown to include seven other locations across the Southeast.
Each location of this family-owned business has a team of tile experts ready to help you find exactly what you’re looking for—whether you’re a homeowner, a designer, an architect, or a contractor. Robert F. Henry Tile has kept its focus strictly on ceramic tile and stone. This allows them to offer unparalleled expertise and service. “We search the world for the best products at the best values,” says vice president Fred Henry. “We offer those products at fair prices. And, we do it in a way that makes people want to return and do business with us again.”
In addition to offering stone selections such as quartz, marble, and granite, the company also provides fabrication to customize and fit your look for kitchens, baths, and more.
At Robert F. Henry Tile Company, the next big idea is waiting for you. Visit their gallery and showroom to unlock your creativity and create a home that expresses your personal style. A new or updated look with tile and stone can make a world of difference in your home.
“We search the world for the best products at the best values. We offer those products at fair prices.”
—FRED HENRY, VICE PRESIDENT
Contact: Birmingham, Alabama Showroom: 4500 1st Avenue North – 205.592.8615 or 205.592.8625 – www.henrytile.com
There’s just something about the space that draws people in. We partnered with Robert F. Henry Tile Company to spotlight this favorite room with a kitchen contest. Entries came in from across the city and beyond, and you—our readers—had the final vote. And while these kitchens may differ in design, they all serve as the all-important heart of the home.
Get ready to tour these winning spaces and find some inspiration for your own kitchen. From colorful to rustic to rancher, these rooms are full of substance and style.
Dark Knight – 1st Place
Designer Nicole Roby refashioned a kitchen for a client’s childhood home on Lake Guntersville to bright it up to date for the next generation.
Dark Knight photographed by Jean Allsopp
You really can go home again. This client returned to her Nicole Roby. “And she asked for saturated colors but childhood home, a 1992 Georgian, with the caveat that still wanted the kitchen to feel light and airy. We took she would keep the memories but update the interiors for inspirations from the handsome tones in the original her family. “She wanted rich enhancements that coincided mahogany floors and cherry finishes throughout.” with the original structure of the home,” says designer Cabinets are painted Black Fox (Sherwin-Williams) to add drama and depth. For contrast, Nicole introduced Cristallo quartzite countertops on perimeter surfaces, as well as on the two islands. And to bring in some shine, she incorporated brass hardware from Brandino Brass and a pair of matching lanterns from Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, and Lighting Gallery above the center island. Color palette aside, perhaps the most dramatic introduction is the La Cornue range and hood. “The custom range with the brass finish looks like a piece of armor,” says Nicole. “It actually inspired the name of the kitchen, ‘Dark Knight.’”
TIP: Two islands allow room for everyone to enjoy the space. Devote one to the chef and use the second as a serving bar or casual dining spot.
“The goal for this project was to optimize the kitchen area for entertaining and, most importantly, make it a place where the family could congregate and spend special moments.”
—DESIGNER NICOLE ROBY
Defining Style
It takes two. To create distinction between the two islands yet maintain a consistent use of materials, Nicole created a waterfall effect with Cristallo quartzite on the inner island.
Twist on tradition. Subway tile is a perennial favorite for a timeless look. Nicole broke up the traditional, horizontal installation with a chevron- patterned inset behind the range.
Color cues: The caramel veining on the countertops cues the warm wood hues on the home’s floors and trim, helping bridge the new design with existing architectural features.
A new kitchen adds another chapter to a historic barn-turned-home located at Shady Lane, an events venue in Bessemer, Alabama.
Shady Lane photographed by Jean Allsopp – Styling by Ivy Schuster
Retrofitting a new kitchen into a historic barn is no easy task, but it offers an inspiring jumping-off point for design. As the primary home for Linda and Michael Adler, owners of wedding and events venue The Barn at Shady Lane, the barn- turned-home is one of two structures located on a picturesque swath of farmland near Ross Bridge.
When establishing their new home and business, the Adlers focused on the event barn first—a glammed-up rustic structure that can accommodate parties of up to 300 people. Once that was complete, they turned to their own home. Of top importance—a new kitchen.
Working with Ivy Schuster of Hatcher Schuster Interiors, the couple saw their ideas and concepts begin to flow. “We all wanted the kitchen to have a collected feel to look like something that evolved over time,” says Ivy. “We also knew the room was dictated by the linear design of the space, so we had to carefully determine what felt right for the island and the area around it.”
With the perimeters set, Ivy and the Adlers focused their attention on function and style. “I felt like the kitchen could have a more modern design that would create a nice contrast with the rustic nature of the barn,” says Ivy. “I also wanted the space to be a reflection of Linda and Michael, who value handcrafted materials, time with family, and their own unique style.”
Standout appointments include the island’s handmade wood countertop from Evolutia and the handmade tile from Cle Tile on the wall. Custom cabinets by Kitchen Potential were painted in shades of gray to contrast the rustic wood of the barn while also adding dimension and interest. New cable lighting adds a contemporary vibe while the large pendants are more in keeping with the barn aesthetic—all part of the unique balance that seems to check every box on the Adlers’ wish list.
TIP: Tie in to existing finishes with complementary colors and a mix of materials. Countertops are stone, while the island features wood. Select cabinets are painted gray to reflect the hues in the concrete floors and the natural tones in the wood ceiling and beams.
“This kitchen embraces the historic envelope of the barn while providing a modern, clean aesthetic in the new elements that were layered in. It’s timeless, clean, and simple with an overall unique composition.”
Designer Katrina Porter upped the style quotient in this ranch home, bringing modern midcentury style to the forefront, along with stylish appointments and conveniences.
Refined Rancher photographed by Paula Coldiron – Styling by Katrina Porter and Jeannie Hoffman
Wood finishes on cabinets are making a comeback in a big way, but today’s look is fresh and modern, unlike the flimsy, orange-tinged, lacquered cabinets original to many 1960s ranch homes. For clients Jeannie and Mark Hoffman, designer Katrina Porter stepped in to transform a cramped, U-shaped kitchen into a streamlined, open, airy space that defies its dated finishes. “My projects begin with layout, space planning, conceptualizing how the space will be used, and figuring out the best location of appliances for both function and focal points,” Katrina says.
With plans in place to open up the space and realign task areas, as well as to add some much-needed storage, Katrina turned her focus to aesthetics. Jeannie was interested in a light-oak finish for the cabinets, so Katrina brought in Village Woodworks for the project. The resulting rift cut white oak cabinets offer clean lines that are complemented by the honed Porcini marble backsplash—something that Katrina calls nature’s art. “The marble slab has a greenish, blue/teal veining,” she says. “It adds color in a subtle way.” This defining detail stands as a focal point, neatly framed by the range surround. “It’s the first thing you see when you step into the kitchen,” says Katrina.
TIP: The ceiling-mount hood from Wolf can be mounted higher than a typical ventilation system. Tucked up and out of view, this necessary appliance takes a step back to let the Porcini slabshine.
In Good Order
This kitchen gets its clean, crisp look thanks to streamlined cabinets and cleverly concealed storage and appliances. Here are the features you don’t see:
Roll-out Pantry: No one likes to dig deep into the recesses of a pantry for dry goods or dishes. A roll-out system keeps everything at the forefront.
Task Stations: A charging station for phones and devices resides in a drawer beneath the coffee maker. Other drawers feature custom peg systems to keep plates and bowls in place. Another cabinet fits a vacuum. It opens to the floor and accommodates an outlet for quick cleanup.
Hidden Appliances: The refrigerator and freezer blend seamlessly with the rest of the kitchen thanks to custom cabinet fronts. Counter appliances such as the coffee maker and microwave are hidden behind a retractable cabinet door adjacent to the sink.
A kitchen renovation combines a vibrant blue-and-white palette with classic appointments.
Azure Kitchen photographed by Grace Photography Studios
A traditional white kitchen is certainly a safe choice when To help the couple meet in the middle, Heather opted forit comes to design, but infuse it with a bit of blue and some cabinets with custom beaded inset recessed panels—a design whimsy, and it goes from ordinary to outstanding. When with just-enough trim and furniture detailing to give a nod to designer Heather Steen of Steenhaus stepped in to renovate this conventional style. Brittney then had her say with the punch of kitchen for homeowners Brittney and Richard Calhoun, she blue on the island and the dramatic tiled wall (Eastern Promise immediately knew there would be some give and take. from Ann Sacks). “I convinced the couple to not only tile the “The homeowners are the definition of ‘opposites attract,’ ” says Heather. “Richard tends towards safer choices, but Brittney loves color and is willing to take risks.”
To help the couple meet in the middle, Heather opted for cabinets with custom beaded inset recessed panels—a design whimsy, and it goes from ordinary to outstanding. When with just-enough trim and furniture detailing to give a nod to designer Heather Steen of Steenhaus stepped in to renovate this conventional style. Brittney then had her say with the punch of kitchen for homeowners Brittney and Richard Calhoun, she blue on the island and the dramatic tiled wall (Eastern Promise immediately knew there would be some give and take. from Ann Sacks). “I convinced the couple to not only tile the whole wall but also wrap it around the window to meet the cabinetry,” Heather says. “The space is a marriage of what both Richard and Brittney love.”
“The risk of placing a bold tile and color in the kitchen paid dividends. It’s a powerful yet elegant backdrop for creating family memories.”
Birmingham boasts some of the best food in the nation— from fine dining to casual eateries to down-home goodness. With a roster of award-winning chefs and yet-to-be discovered locals, our city offers a culinary scene to satisfy every palate.
Sited about 300 feet down from the main house, the pool house is a retreat unto its own. “It’s so easy to pack bags and spend weekends down there,” says Kate. “Even though it’s in the backyard, it feels like an escape—a place to truly exhale.” Photography by Jean Allsopp
With just a short stroll and one wagon full of groceries, we could be at our getaway without ever leaving our property,” says interior designer Kate Hartman when describing the pool house addition to her family’s former Mountain Brook home. “I wanted us to have a place where we would feel like we were on vacation even when we couldn’t travel.”
Steel-and-glass doors slide open 16 feet to connect indoors and out. Downstairs walls are painted brick. “We wanted the house to feel like it could be completely opened up to the elements and feel truly like an indoor/outdoor space,” says Kate. The porch-like vibe is further realized through color choice and materials— Origami White (Sherwin-Williams), stained-cypress ceiling, and FireRock pavers indoors and out.
To realize her vision, Kate engaged Montgomery architect Scott Torode of Pfeffer Torode to come up with a design that checked all the boxes. “We didn’t have any particular resort in mind; we just wanted it to have the feel of a luxurious retreat where you start to relax the minute you enter the doors,” says the designer.
“It also needed to be filled with plenty of creature comforts so that when we spent time there, we wouldn’t think about the things that needed attending to in our everyday home.”
LEFT: A painting by Florida artist Sarah Soule Webb brings the pool blues into the dining area. Parisan bistro chairs from Maison Gatti and a round dining table (Mr. Brown London)exude an attitude of nonchalant glamour. RIGHT: “With careful planning, we were able to pack a lot in the small kitchen,” says Kate. “I didn’t want to be tempted to go to the main house to cook; I wanted everything self-contained and user-ready.”
The 1,600-square-foot house includes touchstones from the main house such as black steel windows and doors, stained-paneled ceilings, and the same exterior color palette (Origami White from Sherwin-Williams and Off Black from Farrow and Ball) that extends to the pool house. Interior arches connect the downstairs stretch of rooms that opens to the pool. Upstairs, a bedroom, bath, and adjacent den offer a getaway within the getaway.
For the interiors, Kate was very intentional when making choices—custom sofas upholstered in Sunbrella fabric; performance rugs; sweep-clean floors; and easy-to-wipe-down dining chairs and barstools. “Every surface can handle wet swimsuits and greasy popcorn fingers,” says Kate.
The bedroom in blue shows off a high-gloss ceiling that references the shimmering pool water.
“The idea was to create a well-appointed resort where every need is anticipated and all that’s required of you is to start relaxing.”
Kate Hartman
Beyond the practical, the designer focused on the pretty. “The word casual is not a favorite of mine,” she says. “I believe that comfortable and durable can be executed in a beautiful way. You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.” To accomplish that, she added statement lighting, pretty accent fabrics, and elegant appointments from Fixtures & Finishes.
To mimic the reflection of the sky and pool, Kate painted the upstairs bedroom ceiling in a high-gloss blue. Cole & Sons wallpaper and a custom headboard continue the cerulean scheme. The designer found vintage block prints on a trip to Japan that she had framed and placed over the bed. Other vintage art pieces dress walls on the main level as well. “I think it’s important to have older pieces in a new space to impart some age and character,” Kate says.
Amenities include stocked cupboards and closets with everything anyone would need for a proper, 5-star vacation. The pool house towels (both pool towels and bathroom towels), lounge chair covers, and robes are from the Madison Collection. “We saw them at a resort in Arizona and loved how they were cozy but thin enough to quick-dry,” Kate says.
Also important to the Hartmans was the landscaping around the pool, so the couple brought in Kelvin Terry. His design included swaths of green grass (both natural and artificial), as well as Carolina Jasmine planted to trail over doorways.
For the Hartmans and their guests, the entire oasis beckons on all fronts, inviting anyone to kick off their shoes and relax—all without ever getting in the car.
Kate saw the brass his-and-her bathroom icons on a trip to Zurich, Switzerland, and filed the signage away in her memory. When she was ready to build, she drew her own pattern and had them replicated locally. A nearby wall displays vintage artwork
Pool House Essentials
PERFORMANCE PIECES: For ease and durability, choose fabrics and rugs that can handles spills , sticky fingers, and wet swimsuits.
SHOWER OPTIONS: If space allows, an outdoor shower is such a refreshing option to rinse off sticky sunscreen before coming inside. On the flip side, an indoor steam shower is ideal for warming up after a dip in the pool.
UMBRELLAS: There’s nothing more inviting than a stylish umbrella for seeking a bit of shade poolside. Kate opted for white umbrellas with scalloped edges from California Umbrellas.
STORAGE: Include attractive bins to store things and help with straightening up. Pottery Barn baskets with tops or handles are tucked under a console table. Kitchen built-ins hold entertainining essentials.
A MIX OF OUTDOOR SEATING: Summer Classics chaise lounges and chairs with ottomans that can serve as seats offer plenty of space for guests. The pool even includes a shelf for chaises.
ICE MAKER: A commercial ice maker on the backside of the kitchen island can handles heavy use and plenty of refills.
FIREPLACE: A wood-burning fireplace in the living room gives the retreat year-round appeal.
Defining Details
1 The tile in the downstairs bath is set at a 50% vertical offset, which gives the white space a more distinct look. It’s a great place for orchids to thrive.
2 The hot tub proved to be versatile as a children’s safe area to play—especially because on either side, there are tanning ledges with shallow water.
3 This outdoor wood-slat shower on the side of the house conveniently leads into the downstairs bathroom.
4 “I love to soften a space with fresh flowers, trees, and houseplants to bring organic elements to the interiors,” Kate says.
5 The upstairs bath, with its black subway- tiled walls and a hexagon pattern for the floor, strikes a graphic note.
6 Stools and ottomans are always a good idea. Tucked out of the way, they can be put into service when hosting a larger group.
7 Kate painted artwork to bring in the colors she preferred and complement the Sarah Soule Webb painting of a woman swimming in the dining space.
LEFT: White Dove (Benjamin Moore) RIGHT: Snowbound (Sherwin-Williams)
1 – Lighten up
Whether you need a few touchups or a whole new scheme, a coat of paint will do wonders. Get a fresh look with go-to whites such as White Dove (Benjamin Moore) or Snowbound (Sherwin-Williams). Always remember to consider undertones. Some skew warm, some cold. Take advantage of sample cans, and test them in various rooms, being mindful about light shift.
2 – Paint it all
Designer Laurie Fulkerson swathed the walls, trim, and ceiling of this dining room in Farrow & Ball De Nimes. “I love the depth it brings into the space and the undertones of just enough blue, gray, and green for a very sophisticated look,” she says.
3 – Wallpaper
From classic chinoiserie to oversize botanicals to graphic metallics, wallpaper makes a big punch. Intimidated about the thought of covering an entire room? Try using it in a small connector space such as a foyer or powder bath like this one by Doug Davis. Be sure to cue colors from adjacent spaces.
4 – Reframe and rehang artwork
Shop your home and reorganize and rehang some of your favorite pieces and finds to create a stunning salon wall. Designer Fran Keenan is a pro at creating gallery walls. Her advice? Vary scale, and use prints and artful objects of all sizes and shapes.
5 – Take it up a notch
8-foot ceilings? Raise drapery to ceiling height to elongate the view. Seeking a custom look? Edge store-bought drapes in designer trims.
6 – Introduce a rug
Antique rugs bring in flair, color, and interest. If you can’t afford that 11 X 14 you’ve been eyeing, layer a smaller one on top of a natural woven rug. Birmingham natives Liz Strong and Page Mullins’s affordable rugs come in traditional sizes but with the benefit of customization. Order extra squares to go bigger, or cut them down to suit your size. Shoprushhouse.com
7 – Restyle your bookshelves
Go ahead and take everything down— everything. It’s time to dust anyway. Reorganize by color and shape using only the things you truly enjoy looking at.
8 – Set your table
Your china is way too pretty to keep in the cabinet – especially if you own this Haviland pattern (Syracuse Green Dinnerware) from Table Matters. Make every day feel like a special occasion. We won’t tell anyone you aren’t entertaining.
9 – Upgrade lighting
Save energy and get tech savvy by changing to LED bulbs, smart light bulbs, timers, motion sensors, and dimmers on overheads and lamps. Mayer Lighting is a pro at helping you select stylish fixtures and a lighting plan to suit your style.
10 – Replace dated hardware
Oversized pulls are in. They make a bold statement, and their streamlined look helps to add a sense of spaciousness to any room. We’re partial to these handles from the new Ashley Norton collection available at Brandino Brass.
11 – Get organized
Whether it’s your closet, your garage, or a junk drawer, these essential spaces are oft used but regularly neglected. It’s time to enjoy the daily tasks. Need some tips? Call Space Cadets or Closets by Design.
12 – Reupholster
Give new life to an antique chair with a fun, funky pattern. It’s the ultimate way to bridge old and new, and it will likely become the statement piece you’ve been looking for. Here, designer Alison Smith reinvented dining chairs with two fabrics. (Top: Kravet; Seat: Brunschwig & Fils)
To hear Drew and Megan Templeton tell the story, it was pure destiny that Rosie, the Wild Honey Flower Truck, would one day be theirs.
When he came upon a flower truck parked outside the Pizitz Food Hall a few years ago, Drew stopped by to purchase blooms for his bride.
As soon as Megan learned where he’d bought the flowers, she researched the business, fell in love with the concept, and set her sights on making it her own. Fast-forward to 2020 when that dream came true as Drew and Megan purchased the 1963 Ford Econoline and flower business for themselves. The couple takes “Rosie” and her locally-sourced blooms to public and private events around town. Don’t worry—if you can’t catch Rosie, you can visit their new brick-and-mortar store (Wild Honey Flower Studio) in Avondale for flowers, gifts, and more.
