A Fresh Start

By
Lacey Howard
-
The open floorplan sees lots of activity from visiting grandsons. Susan can keep an eye on them from the kitchen. Photos by Jean Allsopp

Susan Presley had three good reasons to move away from her waterfront Florida home—“my three grandsons,” she says. “I found myself driving up very frequently to see sports and school activities and to attend other special events for them, so I decided it would work best to live nearby.”

While family was the biggest incentive to move north, Susan also felt the need to downsize and lighten the load of upkeep. “I wanted to scale down significantly,” she says. “My home on the water required a lot of maintenance on both the home and landscaping. So, for this house, I wanted everything to be much more manageable.”

With those things in mind, Susan found a lot in Edgewood and turned to Twin Construction for design assistance. Working with Twin’s plan designer, Crystal Tucker, Susan laid out the specific requests she had for the floorplan. “I wanted all of the spaces that I use most located on the first floor,” she says, which included the living and dining areas, kitchen, master suite, laundry room, and office space. “In looking through the photos Susan had gathered for inspiration, it became clear she had a distinct vision for what her home would look like,” says Crystal. “Certain architectural features reappeared in multiple photos she provided, such as steep pitches, a cedar-shake roof, white tones, and lots of glass. She had really done her homework.” But creating a design that worked for Susan and still fit within the lot’s narrow width restrictions was a challenge—one Crystal was ready to tackle. “We had to be thoughtful in laying out the rooms so the house didn’t feel too narrow,” she says.

Susan also had some other things on her wish list that helped shape how her home flows from room to room, as well as the choices made for the interior design. “I wanted an open, airy kitchen that would flow into the family room,” she says. “Having a separate pantry, as well as lots of cabinet storage space, was also important. And I didn’t want a formal living room. One of the most important things for me was my bedroom. A vaulted ceiling was a must, and I wanted exposed timbers.”

”The sliding door that separates the master bedroom from the master bath is a gorgeous custom piece that fits perfectly,” says Susan. Adds Laurie, “I feel like every master bedroom needs a full-length mirror, so I designed one in the form of a sophisticated, yet functional, door.”
Almost every inch of the master bath is marble. “In my opinion, it will be just as beautiful in 30-plus years,” says Laurie.

Thanks to Crystal and Twin interior designer Laurie Fulkerson, Susan’s visions came to life in every space. Laurie outfitted the four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home in soft colors and classic materials that she describes as timeless, warm, and inviting. “We used Calacatta gold marble, which gives a beautiful, warm look,” she says. “The home also has a lot of wood, limestone, and wallpaper, all with a creamy color palette as a backdrop. Most of the furnishings are new with some antiques bought locally. Susan did have some personal pieces she wanted to use, so I made a point to incorporate those for her. Overall, the interiors have a timeless quality with plenty of warmth, which perfectly reflects Susan’s personality.”

With interiors in place, Susan turned her attention to the exterior surroundings. Behind the house, tucked between the garage and the property line, she incorporated a raised-bed garden. “I enjoy spending time tending to flowers and seeing things grow and bloom,” she says. “I have visited a lot of European gardens, and I wanted to make mine similar to those by incorporating lots of pebbles, large planters, and water features.” Randy McDaniel of McDaniel Land Designs helped with the design. “I envisioned a strong graphic pattern with a neat-and-tidy presence,” he says. The raised beds are simple rectangles with each inside corner clipped to create a circular space for the center urn water feature. Adds Susan, “If I had one tip for someone starting a raised-bed garden, it would be to do a lot of research about what works best with the sun exposure, what plants are the easiest to care for, and which ones offer the most color for impact.”

For her own beds, Susan started with zinnias and dusty miller. “They are both so easy to grow here, and their cuttings make beautiful arrangements,” she says. “I also have always had great success with pentas in the sun and impatiens in the shade. Green leaf sweet potato vine is easy and prolific and really sets off a garden with its trailing structure. I once read that you should have a thriller, a filler, and a spiller, so I have implemented all three of those in the beds and surrounding pots.”

Now settled in her new space, Susan says her home and yard have provided everything she wanted, with the best part being the short commute to see her grandsons. “I like waking up to have my cup of coffee while enjoying the garden view through my master bedroom window,” she says. “Then it’s an easy stroll to my daughter’s house to walk my grandsons to Edgewood Elementary.” After school, the boys often come to her house to play with neighbors. “I love that my front yard has already hosted many football games and Nerf gun battles,” Susan says.

A covered entry gives easy access to the garden from the screened porch.
“The entry plays an important role in setting the tone for the house,” says Crystal Tucker, plan designer at Twin Construction. “We elevated the ceilings and created a special staircase with windows to draw your focus up.” Homeowner Susan Presley specified the French antique closet doors that flank the doorway between the entry and living area. “I searched a long time and had them shipped from South Alabama,” she says. “They have a ton of character.”

The dining room, which sits opposite the stairs at the front of the house, enjoys a street view. Steel-and-glass French doors that echo the front door separate the space from the kitchen.
The hallway leading to the master suite puts an art piece painted by a friend of Susan’s on display. “This is a painting of Susan, her two daughters, and her grandsons,” says Laurie Fulkerson of Twin Interiors. I wanted to place it where she would see it all the time.”
Wallpaper offers a colorful, patterned surprise in the powder room. The trim and ceiling are painted with Farrow & Ball’s Skylight, and the vanity is painted in a custom color to match the lighter color in the wallpaper.
Located in the hallway just outside the master suite, the laundry room has tons of storage, as well as a marble countertop for folding.

Spring Forward

Now is the time to plan for the warmer months ahead. Landscape designer Randy McDaniel of McDaniel Land Designs shares tips for creating a backyard garden full of spring blooms.

RAISE IT UP. Raised beds make tending to plants easier because there’s no need to crouch down on your knees. But according to Randy, there’s an even better reason to garden above ground. “Raised beds help ensure that you have good soil and good drainage. To me, that’s as good as the convenience of not having to bend over.”

UNDER FOOT. The gravel in Susan’s garden is called Selma Brown gravel. “Oftentimes people will assume it’s peagravel, but this gravel has a richer brown color and is angular so it locks together and compacts to form a surface that’s easier to walk on,” says Randy. “Peagravel can feel like you’re walking on marbles.”

“The master bedroom has a bank of windows overlooking the garden. I love to sit there with a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening.” — Susan Presley, Homeowner

MAKE ROOM. “I like to have a place to sit,” Randy says of garden must-haves. “This garden has a bench at its back edge that acts as a terminating focal element. I love that Susan added a console table! She’s furnished the area like a room, and that makes it feel like a space where you want to hang out.”

CREATE YEAR-ROUND INTEREST. Vertically-growing cedar trees at the back of the lot, along with the Confederate jasmine climbing vine, offer evergreen color. In the summer, Susan fills beds with annuals and vegetables.

RESOURCES
Plan designer: Crystal Tucker, Twin Construction, 205.802.3920, twincompanies.com Builder: Twin Construction, twincompanies.com Interior designer: Laurie Fulkerson,  Twin Interiors, 205.802.3920, twincompanies.com Kitchen: Cabinet hardware: Brandino Brass, 205.978.8900, brandinobrass.com Countertops: Surface One, surface1.com, Triton Stone, tritonstone.com Backsplash: Triton Stone Cabinets: Parsons Cabinetry, 205. 960.3636 Master bath: Cabinets: Parsons Cabinetry Cabinet hardware: Brandino Brass Tile: Triton Stone Garden design: Randy McDaniel, McDaniel Land Designs, 205.918.0190, mcdaniellanddesigns.com Garden installation: Curb Appeal, curbappealonline.com

- Sponsors -

New Flavors for a New Year

By
Leslie Byars Register
-

Charred Shishito Peppers with Sriracha Aioli

1 tablespoon olive oil
6-ounce carton of Shishito peppers
¼ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Sriracha Aioli
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Sriracha, more to taste
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Garnish: red pepper flakes

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, and next 3 ingredients. Cover aioli and chill until ready to use. Just before serving, garnish if desired.

In a large skillet, heat oil to medium-high. Add peppers, stirring occasionally until they are blistered and charred on several sides. This will take about 10 to 15 minutes, at the most. Sprinkle with sea salt and lemon juice. Garnish with lemon slices or nasturtiums—or both! Serve with Sriracha Aioli dipping sauce. Serves 4 to 6 as an appetizer

Learn from Leslie: Put out a small bowl for the stem discards.

Coconut Chicken Curry

1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves minced garlic
2 tablespoons finely minced ginger
1/2 large red bell pepper
1/2 large green bell pepper
3 tablespoons coconut oil, separated
2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
3 tablespoons red curry paste
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1½ pounds chicken breast tenders, cut into 1-inch pieces
Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper
1 can full-fat coconut milk (NOT lite)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar or Splenda Brown Sugar Blend*
1 teaspoon fish sauce, optional
Cooked basmati rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice along with additional lime wedges
1/4 cup cilantro and/or basil, diced
Optional: chopped peanuts or cashews

*If using Splenda Brown Sugar Blend (which I did), cut the amount by half.

Start by prepping ingredients: Dice onion, and mince the garlic and ginger. Peel the ginger with a spoon or vegetable peeler, and then finely mince it. Thinly slice the bell peppers into long vertical strips, and then cut those strips in half horizontally.

Heat 2 tablespoons coconut oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes or until the onions are beginning to get golden. Add the garlic and ginger. Stir to coat everything with the oil. Lower the heat to low, and add the curry powder, red curry paste, and coriander. Stir often for 2 to 3 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.

Return the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon coconut oil and the peppers. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes, and then add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Add salt and pepper to taste. (I add 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.) Cook, stirring often, for about 4 to 5 minutes or until the chicken is browned on both sides but not cooked through.

Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and brown sugar (to taste, I start with just 1 tablespoon brown sugar). Stir until chicken is cooked through and curry is slightly thickened. Stir in fish sauce, if desired.

Serve over rice. Garnish individual bowls with cilantro, basil, and crushed peanuts or cashews. Serve with additional lime wedges, if desired. Serves 4

Learn from Leslie: If you want a thicker sauce, remove 1 to 2 tablespoons of the sauce to a small bowl and, with a fork, whisk in 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth. Whisk this mixture into the curry.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

2 tablespoons peanut oil
garlic
1 pound ground chicken
1/3 cup chicken broth
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
16 Bibb lettuce leaves
1/2 cup salted peanuts

Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-heat for 1 minute. Add garlic and chicken; cook 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Add broth, and cook over medium heat until most of the liquid evaporates. Stir in green onions and next 5 ingredients. Spoon 2 tablespoons chicken mixture onto each lettuce leaf. Top with salted peanuts, and fold over. Serve with Cucumber Dipping Sauce. Makes 16 wraps

Cucumber Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon plum sauce
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon chopped mint

Combine first 6 ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 3 minutes. Remove from heat, and cool. Stir in cucumber, cilantro, and mint. Makes 1 cup

For more recipes and fun entertaining ideas, visit dearpartydiary.com.

- Sponsors -

Shoppe Birmingham Owners Share Their Forest Park Townhome

By
Caroline McKenzie
-
“It took a village.” That’s how Mark describes the striking mural lining the dining room walls. The artwork began, ever-so-humbly, with him creating a template using an X-Acto knife and a cast-off refrigerator box. He then worked with friend and Birmingham artist William McLure to add details to the fig tree motif. Finally, Shoppe employee Caitlin Lawler embellished the piece with flourishes of bold color. Photos by Jean Allsopp

Some people dream of Christmas presents. Then there are Mark Thompson and Jay Draper, who dream of something altogether different—Christmas plants. The partners co-own Shoppe, the impossibly stylish garden-and-home store located on Forest Park’s Clairmont Avenue. It’s a venture that was a long time coming for both. “Jay has been working in nurseries since he was 14 years old,” Mark says. “And I’ve been knee-deep in gardening just as long. I was that neighborhood kid who would help all the old ladies in their yards. It was always, ‘Sure, I’ll take some of those daylilies’ and ‘I’d love a few hostas.’”

It’s no surprise, then, that during the holidays, their townhome, located a short walk from the store, becomes a showplace for decadent displays of seasonal flora and fauna. Everything from mantels and windows to doorways and chandeliers is twirled up with boughs of boxwood, magnolia, fir, pine, and more. Meanwhile, winter blooms such as amaryllis, paperwhites, and poinsettias punctuate tabletops and shelves at every turn. “We’re less about glitz and more about bringing the outdoors in this time of year,” says Mark.

The antique Oushak carpet inspired the living room’s scrumptious palette of rusty oranges and mossy greens. The combo is a perfect complement to the Fraser fir tree, which is bedecked in citrine-hued ribbons.

That philosophy also wonderfully sums up the design aesthetic the couple has applied to their home’s décor. Built in 1915 as the Clairmont Terrace apartments, the townhome boasts they-don’t-make-‘em-like-they-used-to details such as high ceilings and handsome millwork. And to showcase those old bones, Mark and Jay developed a simple, whole-house palette of mossy greens, rich browns, and rusty oranges. The earthy scheme makes an elegant backdrop for a bounty of inherited antique furniture and old family photos. As Mark says, “There’s nothing like creating rooms that remind you of where you’ve come from.”

And while the home oozes sophistication, much of it was pulled together (surprisingly!) with bargain finds. “I’m always looking for a deal, while Jay is always pulled toward more expensive items,” says Mark. “Striking a balance has been important at this house.”

Mark’s drive for a bargain has led to numerous late-night internet searches and some very savvy second-hand purchases. Case in point: the elegant Baker sofa that anchors the study. “Jay told me I could do peach on anything but a sofa,” he says. “Wouldn’t you know I found the most perfect peach sofa the very next week?” There have also been times when Mark took design matters into his own hands, creating the large abstract artwork displayed in the living room (created from two-by-fours and drop cloth canvas) and hand-painting the dining room mural.

But that artful handiwork really has nothing on the couple’s aforementioned holiday creations. Together, Mark and Jay string garlands, craft wreaths, and arrange luscious florals. “We have a habit of one of us starting a project and the other finishing it,” Mark says. “It’s our form of teamwork.” Mixed into the already cozy, layered rooms, the decorations seem to beckon guests to sit and stay awhile, which is exactly what Mark and Jay want friends and family to do—especially during the holidays.

The townhome’s sunroom is a veritable showplace for some of Mark and Jay’s favorite collections—chief among them, potted plants and an impressive array of terra-cotta pots. The latter’s orangey hue is repeated many times within the home.
Art imitates life in the study, where Mark and Jay’s extensive collection of coffee table books (a job hazard when one owns a décor shop) has become a wall-to-wall, ever-changing installation. The display’s cacophony of color is balanced by neutral furnishings, such as the pale peach sofa and linen-upholstered armchairs.
Seasonal flora and fauna abound in the petite kitchen. Black granite and white subway tile make an obliging backdrop for fresh greenery and a bounty of clementines. Designed with efficiency in mind, the hardworking space features thoughtful details such as a pullout prep space above the dishwasher drawer (perfect for plating party trays) and open shelves that keep pots and platters at the ready.
The couple’s collection of silhouettes adds to the master bedroom’s style profile. Look closely: The one pinned directly to the wall is actually young Mark; the silhouette was made during a childhood visit to Chattanooga’s Rock City. The others are antiques, which can be quite pricey. However, Mark and Jay will only purchase those they find for $15 or less.
Joy to the world—or at least the neighborhood. Each year, Mark and Jay add festive flair to Clairmont Avenue with a twirled-up front stoop that includes lush magnolia garland (measuring nearly 2 feet in diameter!) and fruit-lined topiaries.
Have an unused alcove? Mark worked with a local metal worker to create a frame “that fits like a glove” within a wall recess on the front stoop. Built to hold 40 small terra-cotta pots, it provides an artful spot to display seasonal plants and clippings.

Shoppe Birmingham owners Mark Thompson and Jay Draper share tips for mixing designer pieces with bargain buys.

Shoppe Birmingham Owners

Choose similar finishes. In the dining room, we paired a hand-me-down dining table and an inexpensive sideboard with serious-investment dining chairs. The combination feels seamless thanks to similar wood tones.

Rethink humble materials, and go wild with pattern. The kitchen floor looks stylish but is merely vinyl tiles laid in a graphic stripe. The striking design definitely holds its own amongst the room’s niceties such as hand-glazed subway tile and performance appliances.

Consider a whole-house palette for a more refined feel. Choosing a cohesive color scheme and using it from room to room brings a level of sophistication and also elevates thrifty finds. In our case, we chose shades of green, orange, and brown.

Seeking Fresh Greenery & Beautiful Blooms? Visit Mark and Jay at Shoppe! 3815 Clairmont Ave / 205.224.4450 shoppebham.com FB:@shoppebham IG: shoppebham

- Sponsors -

Family Affair

By
Madison Pincombe
-

In the kitchen, another heirloom silver piece serves as the base for a display of white amaryllis and paperwhites. “It looks very dramatic, but it’s really just white cut flowers in glass vases,” Val says. Photos by Jean Allsopp

When Val and George Holman design and build a house, the location of the Christmas tree is always drawn into the plans. This house—the fifth one George and his brother, Richard, have collaborated on for George’s family—is specifically designed around hosting their whole family for the holidays. “The Christmas tree is in our den, where we spend a lot of time,” Val says. “We placed it there so that as guests enter through the front door, they catch a glimpse of the tree.”

While the house is outfitted with an entire second floor of guest rooms to welcome overnight visitors, the main level caters to entertaining large groups—a priority for the Holmans. “We know the kinds of things we like to do, so we designed the house in a way that would work for that,” Val says about the spacious, open kitchen; formal and informal dining spaces; and large, outdoor living area outfitted with a fireplace and TV. “I want to always share my house,” Val says. The family uses the outdoor space to watch sports together, and they gather in the den to celebrate holidays.

A mid-century modern table and chandelier marry perfectly with upholstered side chairs and family-heirloom silver pieces in the dining room.

For the interior décor, Val turned to George’s two sisters, who each inherited a designer’s eye from their mother. The women helped Val select the color palette and outfit the home. Val wanted to achieve a simplistic, mid-century modern look, so they chose one neutral paint color for the entire house and then used art and furniture to add interest throughout.

The family affair continued with contributions from Val’s father, who has been a woodworker since he was in eighth grade. Since Val has always had a love for wood and handmade furniture, she wanted to make the shelving and cabinetry prominent features in her new house. Thanks to her father’s handiwork, the home showcases craftsman-built, quarter-sawn, white oak shelves in the den. In addition, a feature wall provides display space for family treasures, such as antique boxes and silver, creating the perfect background for family-focused gatherings.

As the holidays arrive, Val begins by decorating the tree with generations of ornaments. Then she simply adds a few modern, festive touches throughout the house to get it ready for the season. Square wreaths on windows, a garland on the stair banister, and fresh amaryllis and paperwhites in almost every room round out the décor. “I’m a minimalist,” Val says. “I like for my house to have the look of Christmas but still show our everyday style and how we really live.”

White orchids are a staple in the house throughout the year. Here, they add sophisticated holiday cheer when paired with gold angels and a generous magnolia garland.

Homeowner Val Holman always wears red lipstick. When the Holmans purchased this painting from local artist Meredith Keith, Val’s husband, George, asked the artist to make the subject’s lips red. For the holidays, amaryllis in the same lipstick red pair with seasonal greens inside a silver urn, just one of the many pieces from the family’s collection found throughout the house.

This ornate inlaid desk was a favorite piece of George’s father.

Simply Beautiful

Twinkle lights wrap a natural cedar garland, setting off its undulating shape. Confederate jasmine flanks the exterior doorway.

Your décor can be both beautiful and personal—even if you are showing Christmas decorating restraint. Michael Dyer of Vestavia’s Uncut Flowers LLC shares his tips.

Plan Ahead. If you are using live flowers such as amaryllis, paperwhites, or orchids, consider when you want them to look their best. “If you buy them at their peak, the blooms will have faded by the time your celebration rolls around,” says Michael.

Choose Lasting Looks. When it comes to materials crucial for holiday decorating, Michael believes more people should utilize pinecones. “I have always loved pinecones,” he says. “They are very traditional—a Southern thing. They can be used in so many ways, and some people like to tint them.”

Use items you treasure. Michael and his team seldom shop for items to add to clients’ collections. Instead, they just embellish the homeowners’ belongings. “Shop your own home for great items to use as vessels or stand-alone décor,” says Michael. “And if you do buy new, buy only what you love.” He also suggests creating a family tradition as you build a meaningful ornament collection, much like Val’s family does. Growing up, Val and her siblings received an ornament every year, and she has continued this tradition with her own family. “Each year, my children receive a Christopher Radko ornament that depicts something important to them from that year,” Val says. “It can be anything from taking piano lessons to playing soccer.”

RESOURCES
Designer: Mary Lib Cole, Sofas & Chairs, Inc., of New Orleans, sofasandchairsnola.com, 504.486.9622 Architectural Designer and Builder: Richard Holman and George Holman, Holman Building Company, 205.870.0070 Kitchen Cabinets: Jeff Holifield, Cahaba Woodworks, 205.428.1025 Appliances: All-South Appliance, 205.942.0408, allsouthappliance.net Rugs: Paige Albright, 205.877.3232, paigealbrightorientals.com Florals and Greenery: Michael Dyer, Uncut Flowers LLC, 205.970.8850

- Sponsors -

Simply Homemade

By
Leslie Byars Register
-

Sugar’s Pralines

1 box (1 pound) light brown sugar
8 ounces heavy whipping cream
1 (½ cup) stick butter
1½ cups pecan halves

1. In a large, microwave-safe bowl, heat sugar and whipping cream on high for 11 to 12 minutes, until hot and bubbly. (Cooking time may vary slightly with microwaves.) DO NOT LET IT BURN.
2. Remove from the microwave, and add butter, combining thoroughly until completely melted. (I cut the butter into smaller pieces to allow it to melt faster.) Add pecans, and stir to combine.
3. Drop pecan mixture onto wax paper with a spoon or small measuring cup. Allow to cool completely. It may take an hour or two. The pralines will lighten as they harden. Makes 2 dozen

Judy’s Brownie Pie

½ cup butter
1 ounce unsweetened baking chocolate
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup toasted pecans
Garnish: powdered sugar, fresh cherries (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
2. Combine butter and chocolate in a small saucepan; cook over low heat until chocolate melts. Cool 5 minutes.
3. Whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla in a medium bowl until blended. Add chocolate mixture, and stir until blended; stir in flour. Stir in pecans. Pour mixture into a greased 9-inch piepan.
4. Bake 30 to 35 minutes. DO NOT OVERBAKE. Cool on a wire rack. Garnish with sugar and cherries, if desired. 1 (9-inch) pie

FROM LESLIE’S PARTY DIARY Judy Feagin was one of the first people I met during my interview at Southern Living in 1989. She worked in the Test Kitchens. As part of the interview process, I had to do the job of a photo stylist for a week, competing against five other stylists. Well, luckily I made the cut and went on to work with Judy for nine years. My book, Leslie’s Party Diaries, would not be complete without including one of Judy’s favorites, her brownie pie. And she has been sweet enough to edit all my recipes too. Thank you, Judy! I couldn’t have done it without you.

Super Sugar Cookies

These are the crispiest sugar cookies I have ever put in my mouth. I love to make them around Valentine’s Day. They can keep for days in a tin, but they usually don’t last that long.

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
4¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
½ teaspoon salt
Colored granulated sugar

1. Beat butter at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer until creamy. Gradually add sugars, beating until blended. Add oil and eggs, beating well. Stir in vanilla.
2. Combine flour, cream of tartar, and salt in a small bowl; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until blended. Cover dough with plastic wrap; chill several hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
4. Roll dough into balls the size of a walnut; place on baking sheets. Lightly grease the bottom of a glass and dip into the colored sugar; press cookie flat with the bottom of the glass. (Sometimes I will dip glass into sugar a second time if I want the cookies to be more colorful.)
5. Bake 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. Makes 5 dozen

Yum Yum Bars

⅔ cup butter, softened, plus 2 tablespoons, divided
1 pound brown sugar
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2¾ cups flour, sifted
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup pecans, chopped

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
2. Beat softened butter and brown sugar at medium speed in a heavy-duty mixer until thoroughly combined; add 3 eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
3. Combine sifted flour and salt in a medium-size bowl. Add flour mixture to the butter mixture; beat at medium speed until combined, scraping down sides once.
4. Remove the bowl from the mixer. With a wooden spoon, stir in chocolate chips and pecans.
5. In the preheated oven, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a 9-x-13 glass baking dish. After the butter is melted, remove from the oven, and tilt the dish to completely coat the bottom of the pan. Spoon mixture into the pan, and spread out evenly. (Don’t worry if the mixture does not cover the bottom of the pan entirely; it will spread out while baking.)
6. Bake for 30 minutes. DO NOT OVERBAKE. Allow to cool before cutting into squares. Makes 24 (2-inch) squares

LEARN FROM LESLIE Baking can be messy, but this one doesn’t make a sticky mess. I use my Kitchenaid mixer, but you can use a hand mixer too—or mix manually. I do think the mixer gives it an extra whip that makes it super yummy. For perfectly cut squares, place pan in the freezer for a few minutes to chill before cutting.

For more recipes and fun entertaining ideas, visit dearpartydiary.com

- Sponsors -

Into the Woods

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
-

From Left: Suzanne McMillan; Rebecca Davis, Laura McBride, Whitney Johnson, Toni Dennis // Photos by Art Meripol

What signals the start of the holiday season varies depending on who you ask. For some, it’s picking out the Christmas tree or hanging a wreath on the front door, but for others, it’s the annual holiday event at Circa Interiors & Antiques in Mountain Brook Village. And it’s no wonder why. Rebecca Davis and Whitney Johnson outdo themselves to create a shop full of wonderful must-haves sourced from all over the world. And it’s not just what’s for sale that entices—the complete sensory experience is part of the appeal. For the enchanted forest theme last year, a dreamy woodland arch, filled with greenery foraged from the Davis’s lake property, greeted shoppers and drew the crowd inside where a glamorous skirted, mirror-topped table held an array of shimmering décor and served as a debut to the treasures beyond.

“We start working on it in June,” says Whitney. “We look for pieces that you can’t find anywhere else with detailing that fits in with our direction and palette that season. We tie everything together, from the wrapping paper and ribbons to the ornaments, candles, and more.”

Last year’s enchanted forest event included napkins with elaborate feathers, beads, and mother of pearl buttons from Latvia; flocked miniature trees with pearl detailing; angels wearing gowns  in shades of bronze and silver from Paris; snowy owls perched in moss; hand-dipped pinecone-shaped candles from Denmark; and wintery trees and woodland animals captured in a snow globe. Shop employees wore handcrafted fanciful animal masks bedecked with feathers from a source in London, which customers snapped up for future dinner parties. The shop also provided plenty of its tried-and-true favorites that customers expect to find. “We always have potted paperwhites and amaryllis ready to go, as well as wreaths with rich satin ribbon, our floating candles, pre-wrapped ornaments and candles, and hand-blown glassware from Belgium,” says Rebecca. “And Blankenship Nurseries, where we preorder all the greenery for the shop and for our customers, brings their truck up during the party so people can buy on the spot.”

In the afternoon, small guests arrived to a firepit with “reindeer” ponies, music, and mugs of hot chocolate to wait their turn with Santa Claus. As one might expect, this was no ordinary Santa. “He’s a very European-style Santa, and we had his suit custom made,” says Whitney. Santa’s tunic was deep green velvet trimmed in fur with gold trim down the center and brown velvet pants. The ensemble blended perfectly with the rest of the wonderful and bountiful cheer, which charmed everyone who entered and seemed to announce that the Christmas season was here indeed.

Holiday Traditions

WHITNEY

Caroling on Christmas Eve It’s not about the quality; it’s about the spirit. We usually practice in the car on the way, and someone often cries during our serenade!

Matching Pajamas Sometimes they match a theme that fits in with an anticipated Christmas present. One year, each one of us had a different letter on the front that together spelled a word. I like to sneak in and carefully change the little ones into the pajamas after they are asleep. They wake up truly amazed.

Order a Coconut Cake from Bottega We light candles and sing happy birthday to Jesus.

Pay It Forward Beginning December 1st, I encourage family members to put notes in miniature stockings that remind us to do simple, kind things such as walk a neighbor’s dog, bake cookies for the firehouse, or buy someone’s meal behind us in the Chick-fil-A drive-through line.

REBECCA

Christmas in Birmingham Last year we celebrated with a big Christmas Eve party where we serve my favorite spinach Madeline, oysters on the half shell, and pickled shrimp. For cocktails, there were old-fashioneds with homemade syrups.

The Holidays Begin at Thanksgiving We serve my grandmother’s “famous” brandy and bourbon-laced milk punch at Thanksgiving and keep it going throughout the entire season until New Year’s Day. On Christmas morning, we enjoy Danish Kringles in raspberry and almond.

The Music Is On My father and son play guitar, and we definitely end up dancing before the night ends.

I take my Christmas tree lights very seriously! My grandmother taught me how to create a perfectly lit tree. Last year, we included old-fashioned tinsel, which was fun! Our tree includes everything from ornaments made in first grade to a glittery baubles.

Circa Interiors and Antiques • 2831 Culver Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.868.9199
OPEN HOUSE: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Santa, Cocoa & Cocktails 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

- Sponsors -

A Fashionable Refresh

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
-

In the family den, Danielle blended unexpected colors and fabrics and different periods of furniture. The pendant light fixture is from Fixtures & Finishes and the small wooden coffee table is from Roman Brantley. Photos by Jean Allsopp

The fashion designer Mark Jacobs once said, “I always find beauty in things that are odd and imperfect; they are much more interesting.” This view applies to the home of interior designer Danielle Balanis albeit with a slight twist—her things are beautifully odd and imperfect. Fashion designers—favorites Dries Van Noten and Gucci’s creative director Alessandro Michele—and interior designers Billy Baldwin, Miles Redd, and Michelle Nussbaumer are some of Balanis’s reference points. She is also inspired by the interiors and spaces created in James Bond films (“I am completely in awe.”), as well as the sets of the television series Mad Men and the early years of the Rolling Stones. Danielle’s aesthetic is not about understated elegance but rather about unexpected design. “A room should be smart and intriguing, even sometimes a little peculiar,” she says. “It should keep you on your toes yet put you at ease. When a room makes me feel this way, it is a success.” 

A grid of multiple small pendants hangs throughout the kitchen inspired by a restaurant in Chicago that Danielle saw years ago. “I like the industrial note they add.”

A black La Cornue French oven looks more like a piece of fine furniture than an appliance.

All of the above put the designer in good stead when looking for a larger home for her family. She was willing to take a chance on a house in Mountain Brook that had languished on the market for a couple of years. “I loved it at first sight and could see beyond its imperfections,” says Danielle.

While the renovation involved a new first-floor master suite, a totally revamped kitchen, and other architectural tweaks, much of the home’s allure springs from Danielle’s vision for the interiors. For the kitchen’s tailored black-and-white appeal, she looked to the head-to-toe tiling of the indoor pool space at the Biltmore Estate, as well as traditional English basement kitchens.

The dining room has an Old Hollywood allure with its glamorous window treatments in Schumacher fabric with trim around the pelmet from King Cotton. The room shows off Danielle’s deft hand when mixing traditional antiques with more modern ones such as the dining room chairs from Kellum & Company in Homewood.

The palette for the rest of the house surprises from the front door and beyond. “I’m drawn to strong saturated colors and I like to focus on the contrast between colors,” says Danielle. Think mustard, blue, and orange—deftly orchestrated and grounded with menswear fabrics. “One of my color inspirations is the work of the Los Angeles and Nashville design firm Pierce & Ward—they challenge the eye a bit, but in a pleasing way,” says Danielle. She explains that nothing is too jarring as you move through the rooms, but there’s a reason to pause at almost at every step—Pierre Frey wallpaper, framed as a triptych, in the dining room; art groupings of small pieces that cause you to lean in to appreciate; the almost peacock-toned fabric for windows treatments—a color you can’t quite identify; and the push and pull of textures, objects, and art. “Design works best when you find a way to mix extreme opposites,” says Danielle. “And you need to have a sensory experience through the mix of textures.”

Her style, however, is not too esoteric to eschew family heirlooms, her husband’s love of golf or her young boys need to create a little chaos upstairs in their shared bedroom. Because what’s a family home if the family doesn’t feel at home? Not an issue in this magical mélange.

The study’s furniture shows off interesting silhouettes and fabrics. “I totally adhere to a high-low mix, and I’m not snobby about my sources; if it’s right for the space that’s all that matters.”

The master bathroom is bathed in Sun Dried Tomato from Sherwin-Williams in a high-gloss finish which gives the room a slightly decadent couture vibe.

The master bath is lighter and more feminine with its pretty floral wallpaper in a gray colorway that plays against the black-and-white marble floors.

Get to know Danielle Balanis

As a child growing up in Tifton, Georgia, Danielle could be found leafing through her mother’s archives of Architectural Digest and Southern Accents even going so far as to draw her own house plans. Still she didn’t think about interior design as a career until a friend told her that’s what she was majoring in, and it clicked. “I can do this!” With a degree in hand, she started out with Birmingham interior designer Sandra Lynn, but then took a turn working for her family’s business while being busy with three young boys. Design lured her back, and she starting helping friends with various projects. The soft-spoken petite blonde has full-size ideas about decorating that she put into action in her Mountain Brook home—such as menswear fabrics, engaging saturated color combinations, nostalgic pieces mixed with more modern items—all with a keen eye for scale in every room.

Danielle on Design

Be always on the lookout for pieces that will give your home personality even in unlikely places. “I bought some art on the street in Brooklyn, then had to do some sleuthing to find him again for more!

Think about proportion and scale when choosing pieces for your home. You may find something beautiful, but will it look lost in your large living room?

Don’t be shy about mixing prints and colors. It’s okay to experiment. Objects need to have a unique juxtaposition imbedded in that layering that we all strive for. My decorating (and fashion style) is more based on feelings and impulses than logic.

If you have a decorating challenge, such as an awkward or dull space, embrace it rather than try to hide it. We had a hallway that was very utilitarian looking, so I papered it in stripes, even the ceiling!

RESOURCES
Designer: Danielle Balanis Design, 229.392.2853 Architect: Chad Bryant, C.M. Bryant Architecture, 205.223.8602 Builder and interior wood finishing: Francis Bryant Construction, 205.802.7700, francisbryant.com Landscape: Falkner Gardens, 205.871.5999, falknergardens.com Kitchen and bath cabinets: Cotton Woodworks, 205.567.5469, cottonwoodworks.com Kitchen and bath hardware and lighting: Fixtures & Finishes, 205.323.5616 Countertops: Montclair Danby Marble from Surface One, 205.621.1125, surface1.com; walnut Countertops from Cotton Woodworks Tile/backsplash: Floor & Decor, 877.675.0002, flooranddecor.com Sink: Surface One Faucet: VW Gallerie, 205.324.9521, vwplumbingsupply.com Lighting: Fixtures & Finishes Hardwood floors: Alabama Hardwood Floors, 205.338.6878; Master bath, bookcase hallway, and powder bath tile, den pendants, and sconces: Fixtures & Finishes Custom master bed upholstery: Leonard’s Upholstery, 205.251.3021 Master bedroom: Lamps: Fixtures & Finishes. Coffee table in front of loveseat: Roman Brantley Arts & Antiques, 205.460.1224 Dining room: Chairs: Kellum & Company, 205.874.9530, kellumandco.com; Custom recovering: Leonard’s Upholstery Chandelier: Fixtures & Finishes Study: Loveseat: Circa Interiors & Antiques, 205.868.9199, circainteriors.com Black side table: Argent Antiques, 205.871.4221 Door hardware and gas lighting: Brandino Brass, 205.978.8900, brandinobrass.com

- Sponsors -

Get to Know Birmingham Builder Jeremy Wright

By
Brierley Horton
-

Jeremy Wright doesn’t know what life without home-building looks like. His grandfather was a builder, as well as his father. “I’ve been in this industry for 21 years,” he says. But in 2015 he founded J. Wright Building Company. Today his company is not only a Southern Living Custom Builder, but also is quite successful, actively working on twelve to fourteen new builds each year. We sat down and talked with Jeremy about his company and what’s popping in home building right now. He even made some predictions for trends next year.

What makes your company unique from other builders in the Birmingham Area?
We’re in the business of designing and building custom homes, and we also design a new home for every client we work with. A lot of builders have a designer that they outsource to, but we keep it all in-house.

Our process is also slightly different. A lot of people start with a designer and then go to a builder, only to then find out that what they want to build isn’t in their budget. We try to work from a budget and go backwards, and help guide clients into what to build.

Another thing that makes us unique is that we fund our own jobs with just a percentage down upfront from homeowners. The balance isn’t due until the completion of your home.

One of the things we pride ourselves on is building very, very energy efficient homes. We make them tight (the way we seal the home) and well-insulated and use excellent heating and cooling equipment.

What does it mean to be a Southern Living Custom Builder?
It’s an invitation only program. They seek you and you then have you go through all of their checks and balances (background checks, financial information) to see if you meet their criteria. We’ve been in the program for 4 years. Once you’re in, there are nice benefits. Their brand helps promote us and vice-a-versa—we help promote them with what we do. We can also offer some products at a better price standpoint because of the Southern Living partnership.

Where do you find your inspiration?
We learn a lot from our clients! As far as inspiration, I look at historic buildings, both here and when I tour other cities. I like architecture that is simplistic and leans towards traditional principals. From a personal preference, I like stuff that’s more timeless and our designers are that way too.

Who are some of your favorite vendors?
We are very loyal to brands. We love Sherwin-Williams paint; Wellborn Cabinet, Inc., which is right here in Alabama; Trane for heating and cooling systems; Kohler faucets; we mostly use Marvin windows, but sometimes Sierra Pacific; and James Hardie siding.

Some of our favorite vendors are AllSouth Appliance and Southern Bath & Kitchen.

What are some trends you’re seeing right now?
There are trends that will always be present. An open floor plan concept is here to stay. I think that’s a cultural change. White exteriors have been a thing and they’re not going away, but people are moving towards darker colors. White interiors will also stick around, but you’re going to see some more color popping up, like darker blues. Navy is going to be the color next year.

How did you get into custom home building?
I grew up in the industry—and have always been around custom home building. My grandfather was a millright. When the plant would shut down, he would build a house. My father is a home builder. And I worked as a construction superintendent in high school and college. High school is also when I started designing houses. I’ve been a builder for 21 years, but I started this company in 2015 because I wanted a better process for custom building.

I’m also very active in the industry—from the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders to the Alabama Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders. I am enjoying working with builders from around the county in striving for fair codes and regulations that help ensure home affordability for homeowners. I’m a member of the Jefferson County Planning and Zoning Commission and the Alabama Historic Ironwork Commission.

- Sponsors -

Natural Holidays

By
John Floyd
-

Japanese Maple

Believe it or not, our fall color peaks around the week before Thanksgiving. And our first killing frost usually waits until some time in November. This makes for great gardening across the metro area this time of year. Cool fall days and cold nights create the perfect atmosphere for planting biennials such as foxgloves, stock, sweet Williams, and Canterbury bells for spring bloom. These are special plants for me, as they grace my garden every spring with an exceptional show of color. You can generally find foxgloves and sweet Williams in our local garden centers, but stock and Canterbury bells will probably have to be ordered from a company such as Bluestone Perennials.

As we rake leaves and plant perennials and pansies, our thoughts start to turn to the holidays. The Thanksgiving table with its beautiful centerpiece is always special at our house. Usually, the material for this arrangement comes from my garden and the surrounding woods or neighbor’s yards (with permission, of course). In our region, the leaves and branches of ginkgo, green Japanese maples, red maples (especially the named selections), sugar maples, and Southern sugar maples are great options. If you plan to cut branches for arranging, be sure to make a clean cut on the limb where you do not leave a nub of stem. And if you want to add any of these trees to your landscape for future enjoyment, now is the perfect time to plant them. 

When planting a ginkgo, keep in mind that it’s a large tree when mature and needs dryer locations. Also be sure you purchase a male one, as the female fruits have a dead fish odor. Green Japanese maples and Southern sugar maples are smaller trees that are easy to grow. However, over time their root system becomes dense, and few things other than ground covers will grow well  under the canopy. Red maples and sugar maples are large trees and good growers. And while they are excellent shade trees, they do have surface roots, which means you may need to eliminate the turf under these trees at some point and replace with mulch. I do have a 20-year-old red maple in my front area that still has turf under it, but I don’t mind having exposed roots combined with the turf.

As we look ahead to December, many of us start to prepare for Christmas. In our house, using natural decorations is a must. Magnolia clusters, holly branches, smilax vines, nandina berries, and juniper sprays are go-to materials when decorating the mantels and doors, as well as when creating arrangements. Since these decorations usually need to last two weeks or longer, we try to arrange them in water or in florist foam so that water can be added. This also allows fresh flowers to be mixed in when we
are entertaining.

During the holiday season, potted poinsettias, Christmas cactus, hothouse azaleas, amaryllis, and paperwhites are also commonly available. One of the newer plants in the marketplace is the shooting star hydrangea. It’s a lace-cap type whose white flowers look like they are shooting off the bud cluster with a white star-like flower. This hydrangea creates a unique look, and unlike the common white florist hydrangea, you can usually find it at shops across the metro area. In addition, if you can keep the shooting star alive until the danger of frost has passed, it will grow outside in the spring in high filtered shade. However, these hydrangeas are not cheap—they range between 15 and 20 dollars for a 4-inch pot in local shops.

Perhaps the best thing about using natural decorations is that they can be recycled, meaning you can enjoy the materials in other arrangements after the season is over. That’s definitely something to make your holidays even happier.

Poinsettias

Floyd’s To-Do List: November/December

Leaves If leaves are still falling, mow the turf with a bagging attachment and then put the leaves in plastic bags. Wet the cut-up leaves well, and seal the bags. Store the filled bags out of sight. Over the winter, they will decompose and will make good compost or mulch for your spring garden.

Vegetable Garden Once you have finished harvesting your vegetable garden, remove all the debris, till the area, and water well. Then cover it with opaque plastic sheeting. This will prevent winter weeds and will control some pests because of the solarizing effect.

Spring Bulbs This time of year, spring bulbs go on sale at many garden centers and mail-order nurseries. Purchase them now and refrigerate them until time to plant. Any time after Thanksgiving through the first of the year is when I plant my spring bulbs for best effect. This especially works well for tulips and daffodils.

Paperwhite and amaryllis bulbs These bulbs are popular to force in water this time of year. However, it’s important to not allow the water to be above the basal plate, which is the area where you see the shriveled dead roots coming out of the base of the bulb. Only allow the water level to come to this point on the bulbs. Remove the dead material from the bulb before placing the bulb in water. Keep the water level touching the basal plate until you see new roots; then allow the water to drop slightly below this level. Grow in a sunny, cool spot for best results.

Poinsettias When purchasing a poinsettia, look for one that has the little flowers in the center of the colorful bracts. These flowers, whether just opening or in bloom, tell you the age of the plant. Look for plants whose flowers are unopened or just opening to get the best quality plants. And remember that lack of water and sunlight are the main causes of poinsettias looking poor through the holidays.

John Floyd has been gardening in the Birmingham area for more than 30 years. In addition to his day-to-day experience, John has degrees in horticulture from Auburn and Clemson Universities and was editor-in-chief of Southern Living.

- Sponsors -

Fall for Savannah

By
Cathy Still McGowin
-

Called the “Hostess City of the South,” Savannah, Georgia, is built on centuries of history, mystery, architecture, and the arts. Its charms draw antiques buffs, water enthusiasts, and visitors seeking a good story filled with intrigue. Visitors can find all of this and more at the Mansion on Forsyth Park and its sister property, Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront. (Yes, these are part of the Kessler Collection and in the same family as Birmingham’s own Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook.) Typical of other Kessler properties (there are currently nine, with more under way), each exhibits a one-of-a-kind personality that begs exploration. For convenience, a complimentary trolley runs between the hotels for quick access to both. But since they are only just a little over a mile apart, you may want to take the route on foot and enjoy the beautiful stroll through Savannah’s historical squares and gardens.

The Mansion on Forsyth Park is housed in a renovated 1888 Victorian Romanesque home. A new addition accommodates hotel rooms while maintaining the historical architecture that graciously blends in with the grand homes surrounding it. Rooms and public spaces are decadently appointed with Louis XV-style chairs, velvet upholstery, and hundreds of pieces of original art—many of which are for sale. Can’t-miss hotel activities include afternoon cocktails in the Marble Garden or poolside, a treatment in the tranquility of The Poseidon Spa, and a very entertaining and delicious meal with the oh-so-charming Chef Shahin in the hotel’s cooking school. As part of the cooking school experience, Shahin takes guests to the farmer’s market in Forsyth Park to navigate the open-air vendors and learn from local growers about micro-greens, who makes the best honey, and what on earth you do with Lion’s Mane mushrooms. Once back in the hotel’s kitchen, Shanin puts everyone to work chopping, dicing, and learning the proper techniques in order to earn your meal.

Drinks at Rocks on the Roof at the Bohemian Riverfront Hotel come with a view of the Savannah River.

The romantic and moody Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront offers a completely different vibe with a historic maritime theme. The best part? The location. Cocktails at the rooftop restaurant, Rocks on the Roof, come with mesmerizing views of the busy Savannah River, where barges the size of cruise ships ferry goods to and from the Atlantic and beyond. Just a few blocks away, you’ll find the City Market, a district filled with casual dining, shops, and tour operators ready to peddle you through Savannah’s most historical districts.

It’s easy enough to fill an entire stay with activities and offerings at the two properties. However, any visitor would be amiss not to take a day trip to the beaches of Tybee Island. Just 20 minutes from downtown, the island remains as one of those rare, old beach towns where hi-rises are banned and T-shirt shops are plentiful. Climb the circa-1736 Tybee Lighthouse for panoramic views of the beaches and Atlantic, or better yet, get up close and personal with the water on a sea kayak tour with Sea Kayak Georgia led by nature enthusiasts (and sometimes a dolphin or two).

In keeping with hotelier Richard Kessler’s visions for wonder and whimsy, the Marble Garden (and pool) at the Mansion is a wonderland for afternoon cocktails.

Chef Shahin greets vendors at the open-air farmer’s market in Forsyth Park to prepare for the cooking school at the Mansion on Forsyth Park.

Located at the Mansion on Forsyth Park, The Poseidon Spa is pure bliss. Can’t make it to Savannah in time for that overdue massage? Book an appointment close to home at the Mansions’s sister property, Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, to escape for the day.

- Sponsors -
1...535455...102Page 54 of 102