Head for the Mountains

By
Christiana Roussel
-
Nestled in the very heart of Lonesome Valley, Canyon Kitchen is a beloved dining spot for both residents and visitors to the area. Chef Ken Naron and his team take full advantage of the backdoor garden to make the most of every season of eating.

Explore Sylva: Here you’re as likely to enjoy a local craft brew as a pop-up concert in the park. Dinner at Guadalupe is a must. This converted 1920’s drugstore features a menu that is as diverse as anything you’ll find in larger locales, with entrees influenced by the Caribbean, Spain, the Middle East, and our American South. Portion sizes are more than ample for sharing, and you’ll want to do just that so you can taste it all.

Take a Deep Breath: You’re already feeling less stressed after your drive. Now take that one step further with a forest therapy walk with Dr. Mark Ellison in Pinnacle Park. Leave your preconceived notions of hiking behind and be prepared to slow down and forest-bathe. The Japanese call this form of therapy Shinrin-Yoku—essentially immersing yourself in the calming energy of the forest. Dr. Ellison guides participants through a series of mindfulness exercises that are guaranteed to leave you feeling more rested than when you arrived. hikingresearch.wordpress.com/guided-forest-therapy-walks/

Adventure-loving travelers of all skill levels will find no shortage of things to do in Western North Carolina. Whether it’s shooting the rapids of the Tuckasegee River, fly-fishing with professional anglers, taking in the views, attending art shows, or enjoying no-fuss dining, there really is something for everyone.

Hit the Water: The Tuckasegee River winds its way through Jackson County from Cullowhee to Bryson City, but you’re encouraged to pick it up in Dillsboro on an easy river-rafting trip with the Dillsboro River Company. Their tagline of “mom-approved whitewater rafting” gives you an idea of how extreme this adventure is. Expert guides are available to groups who want them, but it is just as easy and enjoyable to grab an inflatable or two-man kayak and head downstream. Pack a cooler if you’d like, but Dillsboro River Company has everything else you’ll need. northcarolinarafting.com/

Still want more? Head back toward Cashiers and find your way to Silver Run Falls, where there is ample roadside parking at the trailhead. Follow the well-worn path to the falls to experience literal forest bathing. Families convene here to take in the cool mountain waters or just picnic adjacent to the roaring falls. Instagram-worthy opportunities abound. ncwaterfalls.com/silver1.htm

Fly-Fishing Dreams Realized: Jackson County is home to the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail with more than a dozen stops providing opportunities to catch brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Locations range in size from open water to small streams. Feel free to bring in your own gear, but if you are just testing the waters, book a guide with Brookings Anglers. They’ll provide everything from waders to hand-tied flies, plus plenty of expert knowledge and lots of patience. While guys like Rhett and Ben might not guarantee you’ll land a big rainbow, they promise you will have fun and probably come away addicted to making that perfect cast. brookingsonline.com

Whether you are staying at the adjacent Laurelwood Inn or not, make time to stop in at Whiteside Brewing Company for a flight of their craft brews.

Where To Stay: Jackson County stretches all the way from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park down to the South Carolina border. Given that there is so much to see and do, staying in the town of Cashiers is an easy choice. There is a wide variety of places to choose from to fit all budgets, but the Laurelwood Inn is perfect for just about everybody. Situated just off the main intersection of Hwy 64 and Hwy 107, the inn is close to everything while still being tucked into the forest’s glade. Even better, take the short stroll through the back of the property to arrive at Whiteside Brewing Company, where the kids can burn off some energy running around while the grownups enjoy a flight of craft brews. laurelwoodinncashiers.com

Planning a longer getaway?
There is almost no place better in Jackson County than Bear Lake Reserve in nearby Tuckasegee. A long afternoon at the Lake Club after a challenging round of golf is worth the drive alone, and yet there is so much else here to explore.

- Sponsors -

Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

By
Leslie Byars Register
-

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Recipe and photo by Leslie Byars Register

MAKES 2 QUARTS

1 large butternut squash, cut into 1-inch pieces, or precut pieces (4 to 5 cups)
1 onion, cut into 8 wedges
4 large garlic cloves, crushed
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon honey
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 (14.5-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth
3-4 slices of multigrain bread*, cubed and toasted
Garnishes: ground nutmeg and pomegranate seeds

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place squash, onion, and garlic on a large baking sheet; drizzle with oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat completely. Roast for 30 to 35 minutes or until tender. 

Place roasted vegetables in a blender. Gradually add honey, nutmeg, and broth. Blend until smooth. 

For the toasted bread cubes: Remove the crusts from several slices of multigrain bread; cut into squares. Spray both sides with butter-flavored cooking spray. Toast for 10 to 15 minutes in a 375 degree oven.

Add garnishes to soup, and serve with the toasted bread cubes.

NOTE: This soup can be served immediately or made ahead and refrigerated.
*Leslie Likes: Dave’s Killer Bread

- Sponsors -

Recipe: Easy French Onion Soup

By
Leslie Byars Register
-
Recipe and photo by Leslie Byars Register

Easy French Onion Soup

SERVES 6

3 large yellow onions
3 sweet onions, such as Vidalia
6 tablespoons butter
4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme
4 bay leaves
1 cup dry white wine
4 cups beef broth
1 (14.5-ounce) carton low-sodium chicken broth
1 dash Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 baguette
Olive oil
1 (8-ounce) block Gruyère cheese, grated

With a sharp knife, thinly slice onions. Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat; add onions, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir occasionally until onions are caramelized and a rich, dark brown color, about 35 to 40 minutes. Add 1 cup white wine and next 4 ingredients. Simmer for 45 minutes. Be sure to remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs before serving. 

While the soup simmers, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Slice the baguette into ½-inch slices. Brush both sides with olive oil; bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove from the oven. Increase the oven to broil. Spoon soup into oven-proof crock or bowl, place a baguette or two on top of soup, and top with cheese. Broil until cheese is hot and bubbly and begins to brown.

- Sponsors -

Fine Art & the Magic City

By
Lauren Helmer
-

Birminghamians will soon have the rare opportunity to experience—and purchase—some of the most exceptional oil paintings from across the eastern half of the United States and Canada. From October 10th through November 11th, incredibly accomplished and highly decorated artists, as well as serious collectors and art enthusiasts, will descend upon Birmingham’s Beverly McNeil Gallery for the Oil Painters of America’s 2019 Eastern Regional Juried Exhibition. “Being invited to host this beautifully curated exhibit at the Beverly McNeil Gallery is certainly a highlight of my career,” says gallery owner Beverly McNeil.

Of the 1,200 artist submissions, only 100 artists are selected for this exhibition, which is considered among the premier art shows in the country. The oil paintings will feature works in a wide range of subject matters and styles, from still lifes and landscapes to figuratives and florals. And many of the leading artists featured in this show are part of a master-to-pupil lineage that can be traced back to the 18th-century masters.

I have been in the fine art business for over 30 years and have taken great pleasure in helping art patrons find just the right pieces for their homes and businesses. It’s very rewarding to see clients connect with a piece of art that they truly love and that enhances their personal collection. —Beverly McNeil

“We will have several days of exciting and informative events including an opening reception and awards ceremony; a lecture from the OPA’s current president, Kurt Anderson; and live painting demos from master artists John Michael Carter and Roger Dale Brown,” says gallery director Brittany C. Barnes. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the people of Birmingham to view and collect artwork from nationally recognized artists without having to leave the city.”

To purchase a painting from this year’s exhibition, visit Beverly McNeil Gallery. You also can contact the gallery at 205.328.1761, or see the entire exhibition online at beverlymcneilgallery.com. 

- Sponsors -

Antiques at the Gardens 2019

By
Cathy Still McGowin
-

Taste in Spades, Cathy Graham

Meet the Speakers & Tastemakers

October 3: Tastebuds

David Baker: Mentored by Bobby McAlpine, David Baker eventually became one of Bobby’s business partners. In 2018, David and previous McAlpine partners Chris Tippett and John Sease formed Tippett Sease Baker Architecture. David has a passion for creating approachable, refined, and timeless architecture using traditional styles and details, all while meeting his clients’ modern needs.

Ronda Carman: Author of Designers at Home: Personal Reflections on Stylish Living (Rizzoli) and the forthcoming book Entertaining at Home (Rizzoli), Ronda Carman is also the founder of Ronda Carman Fine Fabrics and a contributing writer for The Huffington Post.

Frances Schultz: Journalist, tastemaker, world traveler, hostess, Southerner, and Sunday painter Frances Schultz is an enthusiast on design, cooking, entertaining, travel, and style. She is author and co-author of several books, including The Bee Cottage Story—How I Made a Muddle of Things and Decorated My Way Back to Happiness and, most recently, California Cooking & Southern Style.

October 4: Red Diamond Lecture Series

Markham Roberts: A graduate of Brown University, Markham Roberts moved to New York to work with the late Mark Hampton before opening his own firm in 1997. Called “a master of timeless American style” by Vogue, Markham has also been featured in publications such as Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, and Town & Country.

Taste in Spades, Ashley Whittaker

October 5: Taste in Spades

Gavin Duke: With over 30 years of professional experience, Gavin Duke has honed a passionate way of creating spaces with a refined eye for details. Gavin has a special way of envisioning the end result and designing creative solutions that evoke timelessness in the landscape. By combining landscape architecture with other arts, he designs gardens and living environments for people, plants, and animals.

Lee Ledbetter: In 1996, Lee Ledbetter established his New Orleans practice, Lee Ledbetter & Associates. His firm’s projects have appeared in publications such as Architectural Digest, Architectural Record, British House & Garden, Elle Decor, House & Garden, and House Beautiful. In spring 2019, Rizzoli released Lee’s first book, The Art of Place: Lee Ledbetter Architecture and Interiors.

Ashley Whittaker: Described as the “neo-traditionalist,” Ashley Whittaker offers a fresh, modern perspective on traditional design. She has been recognized on Elle Decor’s A-List as one of the world’s leading designers. Her work has been featured in publications such as Veranda, The New York Times, and House Beautiful.

Cathy Barancik Graham: Artist and fashion illustrator Cathy Barancik Graham is also an author and product designer. Her work has appeared in many publications, including Rolling Stone and New York Magazine.

Alex Hitz: Award-winning chef, author, lecturer, event designer, and master host Alex Hitz is renowned for his refinement in the art of preparing and serving food. His first book, My Beverly Hills Kitchen: Classic Southern Cooking with a French Twist, garnered editorial raves from The Wall Street Journal, Vogue, Vanity Fair, House Beautiful, and The New York Times.

Southern Sunday, Becky Boyle

October 6: Southern Sunday

Lisa Fine: Textile guru Lisa Fine is founder of Lisa Fine Textiles, which specializes in hand-printed linens. Her work has appeared in publications such as Elle Decor, The New York Times, The Herald Tribune, and Vogue. Lisa’s book, Near & Far: Interiors I Love, will be published this October by Vendome.

Richard Keith Langham: The Southern-born, Manhattan-based designer has been a force in the decorating world for nearly 30 years. Richard has worked with legendary ladies such as Mrs. William F. Buckley, Jr., and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. His book, About Decorating – the Remarkable Rooms of Richard Keith Langham, was published by Rizzoli in October 2017.

Becky Boyle: With offices in Los Angeles, CA, and Charlotte, NC, Becky Boyle heads up a full-service interior design firm. She is currently working on projects all over the United States, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Birmingham.

Virginia Page Cheek: Based in Atlanta, GA, Virginia Page Cheek worked under designers on the East and West Coasts before founding her design firm in 2015.

Jared Hughes: Atlanta designer Jared Hughes has a penchant for antiques and architecture. His work has been featured in Traditional Home and Atlanta Home.

Parkes & Lamb Interiors: A boutique interior design firm founded by Blair Parkes and Susan Lamb, Parkes & Lamb Interiors is  based in Nashville, TN. The firm creates interiors that are polished, refined, and personal.

Blackjack Horticulture: Specializing in landscape management, installation, and masonry/hardscapes, Birmingham-based Blackjack Horticulture serves residential and commercial clients throughout the Southeast.

Click here to purchase tickets to Antiques at the Gardens

- Sponsors -

Inspiration Home 2019

By
Cathy Still McGowin
-

2019 Inspiration Home Sponsors

Room Sponsors
Ashley Gallion
Georgia Carlee
Lauren Conner
Libby Greene
Lolo French Antiques
Mary Lauren McBride
Nan Jackson
Paige Albright Orientals
Pandy Agnew
Seibel’s
Stephanie Lynton
Stock & Trade

Materials Sponsors
American Lumber
Dread River Distilling Co.
Ecological Insulation
FireRock
Inline Lighting
Interscapes
Jackson Refrigeration
Lake Martin Painting
Pella Windows & Doors
River Bottom Pine
Robert F. Henry Tile Company
Russell Do It Center
Russell Marine
Sunrise Docks
V & W Gallerie
Vision Landscapes

- Sponsors -

Past Made Present

By
Lacey Howard
-

The only changes to the front exterior since 1927 are an extension of the terrace and the addition of two French doors with a big window between to capture city views along with a Parterre garden by landscape designer Peter Falkner. The design team added a canopy to protect the openings from sun and weather. “We used copper roofing that really ages gracefully and becomes more beautiful over time,” says architect Jason Dunham.

In the 1920s, Redmont Park was one of Birmingham’s first suburbs, stretching along the ridge of Red Mountain. It was here, in 1927, that local industrial titan Dr. Thomas Martin built a red-brick house with views of the burgeoning city to the north and south over Shades Valley. The home’s original architects, from the firm of Miller, Martin, & Lewis, had designed many of Birmingham’s well-known buildings, such as Avondale School and Birmingham Public Library, as well as many structures on the campuses of Birmingham-Southern College and The University of Alabama, including Denny Chimes.

When the current owners first viewed the property in 2015, they immediately knew it was perfectly suited for their empty-nester lifestyle. The home offered plenty of space to gather and celebrate with their six grown children who were starting to have children of their own. However, it was a year before the previous owner would sell and then another 18 months of planning, renovations, and decorating before the home was complete. “We wanted to make it livable and personalized for the new owners,” says architect Jason Dunham of Nequette Architecture & Design. “The main changes involved opening up views from the interior, adding a family room on the back, and expanding the master bedroom closets.”

The redesigned floating staircase creates a perfect alcove to house the grand piano. Photo by Chris Luker

To capitalize on downtown views, Dunham and his design team created a large window (once a solid wall) flanked by French doors that open from the living room onto the front terrace. At the back of the house, the new window-wrapped family room was constructed as a second story atop a carport that took the place of an uncovered patio off the kitchen. “The architects also redesigned the front entry’s grand staircase, which completely transformed the look and feel of the home,” says builder John Bryant of Francis Bryant. “The new floating, plastered stair with iron handrail is stunning and really sets the tone for the house.”

Even with all of the changes made, the design team purposely kept certain things the same as a way of preserving the home’s history. The front façade maintained its English traditional architecture, as seen in the arched front doorway with limestone surround. And the structure’s original Italian Renaissance touches are still visible in details such as a double-arch window with twisted columns above the front entry. In fact, the street view of the home today is almost indistinguishable from 90-year-old photographs.

Another unchanged aspect is the historic home’s original role as an escape from a bustling metropolis. Thanks to designer Liz Hand Woods’ soothing, inviting interiors, the house almost forces an exhale from those who enter. “You feel and smell and sense the history when you walk into the house,” says the owner. And because of the home’s solid construction (two-foot-thick concrete walls, along with rebar and brick), it is completely quiet. As the homeowner says, “The dichotomy of looking out at the city but feeling like we are in a private oasis is truly amazing.”

On the terrace just off the study, sleek Janus et Cie outdoor furniture creates an intimate conversation area.

On the back side of the house, French doors lead from the living room to the dining terrace. A concrete table with bases from Formations is surrounded by Janus et Cie dining chairs.

The new window-wrapped family room sits atop a carport. ”When you are in the backyard sitting on the pool terrace at night, the addition lights up and becomes a beacon on top of the brick base,” says Jason.

“We used a mix of old and new so it didn’t feel totally traditional,” says designer Liz Hand Woods of the living room. Antique chairs and benches are balanced out by the contemporary coffee table. The art above the commode is a self-portrait of the homeowner’s great-grandmother, who was a turn-of-the-century German artist. Two 18th-century French trophy lamps square off in opposite corners.

“Family room furnishings are kid and dog friendly,” says designer Liz Hand Woods. Motorized shades block light and offer privacy. The former terrace’s limestone pavers were repurposed as the fireplace surround.

“I love the contrast of light and dark,” Liz says of the wife’s study that includes charcoal-gray lacquered walls and white wing chairs. A vintage marble coffee table anchors the seating group. The grids of artwork are by local artist Jane Timberlake, and the piece over the mantel is by Ralph Harmon. Original leaded-glass doors enclose bookcases.

The husband’s study has appeal with straight, clean lines on the furnishings and green grasscloth on the walls.

The existing kitchen already had marble countertops and white cabinets. Industrial open shelving helps supplement the room’s storage options.

The breakfast nook offers banquette and armchair seating at an oval table between the kitchen and the new family room.

An icy silver color palette in the master bedroom ties into the marble mantel.

In the master bath, a contemporary tub and a new window seat offer spots to take in city and valley views. The water closet is enclosed by sand-blasted glass.

RESOURCES
Interiors:  Liz Hand Woods, 205.870.8005 Architect: Jason Dunham, Nequette Architecture & Design, nequette.com Builder: Francis Bryant Construction, francisbryant.com Landscape: Falkner Gardens falknergardens.com Kitchen hardware: Brandino Brass, brandinobrass.com Rugs: Foyer, living, study, & dining: Paige Albright Orientals, paigealbrightorientals.com Master bedroom: 18th Street Orientals, 18thstreetorientals.com Stair runner: Hiltz-Lauber, hiltzlauber.com Fixtures: Fixtures & Finishes, 205.323.5616 Firepit: Concrete Farmer, 205.790.1481

- Sponsors -

Feeling Saucy?

By
Leslie Byars Register
-

LEARN FROM LESLIE “If you double the [sauce] recipe, use two separate pans to ensure the ingredients and seasonings are equal and accurate.”

If you’ve been tempted all summer by a large basket of vine-ripe tomatoes at the produce stands, well, here’s your chance to scoop one up and make sure it goes to good use. One basket will make this recipe two to three times. Nanny’s Red Sauce is one of my favorite recipes that I always have on hand. Whether it’s used as the sauce for Chicken Parmesan, placed in a bowl as a dipping sauce for a meatball appetizer, or simply tossed with pasta, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser at your next gathering.

Nanny’s Red Sauce

8 cups fresh tomatoes, quartered
1 onion, chopped
½ cup olive oil
4 garlic cloves, smashed
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place all ingredients in a large roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet. Roast 45 minutes. Ladle ingredients into the bowl of a food processor. Be sure to get all the juices too. Pulse until smooth for a creamy texture. Keep warm in a saucepan on the stove before tossing with your favorite pasta. Makes 5 cups

Chicken Parmesan

1½ pounds chicken tenders
2 large eggs, beaten
1 tablespoon water
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups Nanny’s Red Sauce
8 slices Muenster cheese, thinly sliced
Fresh basil for garnish

Between two sheets of wax paper, pound chicken tenders with a meat pounder or rolling pin until ¼-inch thick; set aside.

In a small, shallow dish, beat eggs and water with a fork; set aside. In another small, shallow dish, combine Panko, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter and olive oil at medium-high heat. While skillet is heating to medium-high, dip chicken tender into egg mixture, then into Panko mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place in hot skillet. Repeat with rest of the chicken. Cook 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Place chicken on top of Nanny’s Red Sauce in an ovenproof dish. Top with two thin slices of Muenster cheese, and broil 2 to 3 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil. Serves 4

Savory Mini-Meatballs

½ pound pork sausage
½ pound ground chuck
½ onion, grated
1 carrot, grated
¼ cup fine breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup ketchup
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 375°. Combine all ingredients in a medium-size bowl. Shape the mini-meatballs with a melon ball scoop. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown. Serve mini-meatballs with toothpicks and warmed Nanny’s Red Sauce for dipping. Makes 38

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

- Sponsors -

Get to Know Designer Cameron Mobley

By
Lauren Helmer
-

The striking cane coffee table is the exciting find that really inspired Cameron’s design for this keeping room. The fabrics are indoor-outdoor for durability. Photos by Spark & Arrow

How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I’m a lot more traditional than most designers, and I especially like working with antiques. Through my design process, I strive to create timeless interiors.

What is it you love about antiques?
Why do they drive the soul of your designs? Each antique has its own history and story to tell. The patina, nicks, scratches, and faded colors are what make it unique and also what provides warmth, depth, and nostalgia to a room. I enjoy the hunt to find that one-of-a-kind piece, and I love making it the focal point of a room. I am always looking for those standout pieces.

Cameron wasn’t very fond of the chunky dining room set when her clients first purchased it, but she worked with it. “We custom-skirted the chairs with pretty little slipcovers,” she says. “Just adding details and layers made it all come together. Now it’s my very favorite dining room I’ve ever worked on!”

How do you keep antiques feeling fresh and relevant?
You should definitely mix antiques with new pieces. Timeless is not the same thing as dull and outdated!

How can people use antiques in fun, unexpected ways in their own homes?
When it comes to antiques, you are only limited by your imagination. An antique chest can be transformed into a powder-room sink. Old architectural fragments can be repurposed as lamps. One of the coolest things that I have done recently is turn a beautiful 18th-century chest into a hidden TV cabinet. The TV emerged out of the top of the chest with the push of a button.

Any designer secrets?
 I feel like there really are no secrets in the design world. The most important thing is to stay true to what you like. Don’t buy something just because it is “in style.” If you find a piece you love, purchase it now and then find a spot for it later. This is the way to ensure that you’ll always love your house.

Any advice for how to best build your antiques collection?
Buy one piece a year. Don’t look for stuff just to fill up a room. If you can’t afford to decorate your whole house at one time, which is the case for most people, just focus on finding one really nice piece of furniture every year. Over time, you’ll create a complete room with beautiful, quality items.

This bar cart vignette is a masterful mix of antiques. “Pairing the crusty antique fragments with this Phillip Jeffries grass wallpaper creates pretty texture,” says Cameron. An antique butler’s tray anchors the space, while a gilded antique sunburst tops it off.

What is your major antiques no-no?
The only no-no is if you never buy antiques. Antiques are always a good idea!

All About Cameron

Interior designer Cameron Mobley shares her favorite spots and current goings-ons.       

Favorite Boutique
Birmingham has a lot of great shops. My favorite local shop is Maison. The owner, Pam Evans, always has the perfect piece for my clients.

IG Obsessed
I love Danielle Rollins and her interiors! I feel like I could sit down with her, have a glass of wine, and chat all night. She never takes anything too seriously, and her interiors are amazing—and who doesn’t love a bit of daily laughter?

Excited About
We recently moved into a new house, and I am so excited to renovate and furnish my own home. I have a basket of fabrics I have been saving for years to use for myself, so it’s finally time.

Local artist to watch?
Mckenzie Dove is one of my good friends, and I love working with her on custom pieces. She can look at my fabric choices and create the perfect piece to finish a room.

Favorite fall activity
We love to visit local breweries during the fall.  And, of course, we enjoy watching football games with friends.

Fashion go–to’s and why?
I have an 18-month-old, so my daily fashion go-to seems to be anything from Athleta. I’m a full-time mom and a full-time designer, so some days workout clothes are the best I can do.

Travel Getaway
We love to run up to Chattanooga for quick weekend getaways. Two years ago, we went to Blackberry Farms and it was amazing. I’m ready to go back!

Cameron Mobley
Cameron Mobley Interior Design, LLC
205.820.0101
cameronmobley.com

- Sponsors -

Q&A with Architect Scott Torode

By
Catherine Romero
-

Meet Montgomery-based architect, Scott Torode of Pfeffer Torode Architecture, who was tasked with designing this year’s Inspiration Home.

Tell us a little about the home you designed for the 2019 Inspiration Home and from where you drew your inspiration.
ST: Steve Arnberg with Russell Lands came seeking a sort of aesthetic reset for this phase of The Willows. It’s not something that can be done in one house, but we hopefully started something by referencing more closely styles of American recreational architecture (shingle style, the Adirondacks, and mountain houses of North Carolina). The house is rendered in rough-sawn cedar siding, timber and rafters details which Chad Calhoun’s team does very well.

Do you have a favorite finish or design detail that you like to incorporate in your work that we can expect to see here?
ST: I always go back to materials of integrity, so I love wood planking wherever possible, dressed up or down, painted or stained, anyway that I can get it.

The most important details to me are in planning. We always think through the process of loading and unloading the house, where one enters and sets things down, and where to accommodate all of the groceries, coolers, luggage, pets, etc. that come with you to the lake.  Having a second entry through the mudroom gives opportunity to sort that stuff  away so it doesn’t end up cluttering the kitchen. It’s an important point with open kitchens.

The porch is always important to me. Here we’ve oriented it away from the house to capture cross breezes and views. The porch defines one side of the terrace which makes it more amenable as a hangout. I’m also fond of the separate grilling porch. It’s close but not smoke in everyone’s eyes close.

How do you design a home today that will continue to be relevant in the years to come?
ST: I’m not much for predicting trends, and seeking them out usually results in some future fashion hazard. Relevance depends on time and place, and comes from listening to the vision and desires of our clients. Our clients often come to us with the long view of what the house will be to their family in the future, and that’s the ideal place to start.

Favorite travel destination and why?
ST: I love the Blue Ridge mountains, so the nearer to the mountains the better. I’m usually there in my mind.

Favorite restaurant?
ST: The Vintage Year in Cloverdale is a great neighborhood restaurant for us. Chef Eric’s menu is always a step above and the service excellent.

Hobbies?
ST: Anything that involves design and a pencil in hand. I’m truly fortunate to have a profession that I cannot wait to start every morning.

Learn more about Pfeffer Torode Architecture by visiting their website here.

Click here to learn more about the 2019 BHG Inspiration Home.

- Sponsors -
1...545556...102Page 55 of 102