Q&A: PR & Style Maven Hannah Benak

By
Catherine Romero
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Hannah Benak

Hannah Benak, President of PR firm Black Benak and founder of fashion blog Looks and Merit, exudes style and confidence. This style maven, believing beauty and brains go hand in hand, is passionate about empowering women to dream big and achieve their own personal goals. To see more of Hannah’s keen sense of style, look for her home which will be featured in our July/August issue.

Tell us about how Looks and Merit came to be and what’s behind the name.
I consider Looks & Merit to be the lemonade made from sour lemons. The short story is that, through experiences I’ve had in the workplace (my real job = my public relations firm, Black Benak) I was compelled to not only give myself a creative outlet, but to have one that would inspire other women to feel confident about being perceived as pretty and also being intelligent. The two concepts are not mutually exclusive. Feeling confident about yourself, your abilities and your outfits makes you MORE capable, I would argue. You can read the full story behind the name on the About page of looksandmerit.com.

What do you love most about your work?
With Black Benak: it’s definitely the people we have the privilege of working with that makes the job so great. I learn something important from these entrepreneurs and executives every day.

With Looks and Merit: I feel like a lot of people look at clothes and fashion as frivolous and unimportant. But I feel very strongly that if those same people, especially women, looked at the big moments in their lives… the big life events, the times that defined them, whatever it was… they would remember what they were wearing, or remember how empowered they felt by feeling great about their outfits. On numerous occasions, strangers that follow Looks and Merit have come up to me and said, “you help me feel like a cool mom” or, “oh man, I feel so much more confident about my work wardrobe now” and that makes it all worth it. It’s very outside of my comfort zone to snap a photo of my outfit of the day and post it like I think I’m the most fashionable person on earth. I have major insecurities about it. Because OF COURSE I’m not the most fashionable or the best dressed person out there! But what I’ve found is that my personal style can help other people discover theirs or empower their day and it’s really inspiring, and definitely why I’ve kept going with the blog/Instagram and love it so much.

What keeps you inspired on a day-to-day basis?
My inspiration definitely comes from checking in on fashion websites like Who What Wear, street style photographers on Instagram and, of course, following my favorite Influencers and designers to see what’s happening with fashion all over the world. I discovered this woman in France that hand sews the most beautiful sheer silk tops and sells maybe three at a time on Instagram every month or so. Those people and the women who wear/appreciate that kind of fashion are my biggest sources of inspiration.

What are your favorite Birmingham haunts?
I will pause fashion talk ANY day to talk food! Right now, I’m addicted to the raw oysters and the “Absolutely” frozen cocktail at Automatic Seafood – so good. And I’d say, for me, it’s hard to beat dinner at Chez Fon Fon…. escargot followed by steak frites and a slice of the coconut cake. Now that I’m thinking about it, I wonder how much butter I consume in that one meal? Oh well, #worthit. Other faves: You can frequently find me at Ovenbird, I love having lunch at el Barrio, Paper Doll is my go-to drink spot, I love a Saturday afternoon at Back Forty, I think the po-boys at Rougaroux are awesome and I’m a Gianmarco’s fan for life as well.

What is your best piece of advice?
Work hard, never say “that’s not my job” and always stay true to yourself – but trust your gut and make a leap when an opportunity presents itself that would force you out of your comfort zone. There always seems to be something amazing waiting on the other side of those uncomfortable moments.

My favorite quote: “In breaking away from the familiar and the expected, you’ll be forced and privileged to face greater challenges, learn harder lessons, and really get to know yourself.” -Kelly Cutrone, If You Have to Cry, Go Outside

Side note on personal style: I get really frustrated feeling like I see the same style, same cheap Amazon finds, same headbands, handbags, whatever the “of the moment trend/item is” on Instagram over and over. I run in the opposite direction. My style is always evolving based on trends and updates but there’s a reason there are things in my closet that are 10 years old that are still completely in style. So, my account isn’t just about making people think they always have to have something new. I’m trying to encourage people to splurge on the appropriate items (that handbag they’ve been eyeing for years, a great trench coat, etc.) and look to fast fashion/affordable retailers for the trendy pieces that won’t be in style next season. If you follow that method, the important items in your closet will be there to stay, can be styled with just about anything and will be loved for years to come.

Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life and your work?
My biggest inspirations are my family members – both of my parents, my siblings, especially my sister, and my husband. All of these people have impacted me in different ways but there are a few things in common: they’ve all shown me (not told me) how to work hard, to always be improving, to be respectful but not a pushover, and to put the important things in life first.

Describe your perfect day.
This question is impossible for me to answer! My perfect day could be popping into boutiques in New York City, hunting for an antique piece for our house in Savannah, or roaming around just about anywhere in Paris. I would say the closest thing that comes to mind was in Italy a few years ago. Matt and I spent the day on a boat taking in the beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of Capri… it really was perfect.

What does an ideal relaxing weekend look like for you?
With a B-U-S-Y 10-month-old on our hands, we aren’t doing much relaxing on the weekends. But if I were dreaming up a relaxing weekend, first on my list would be enjoying a latte, immediately heading to a spa for the day and catching up on some reading. I’ve been trying to read this one novel for over a month now (see below).

Do you have any guilty pleasures?
I mean I shop entirely too much, duh.

What are you currently reading or listening to that you find inspiring?
Typically, when I’m reading (or listening to a podcast), it’s to learn something to better myself. My top podcast right now is “Influencer Business” by Trove. The people who run it are brilliant and bring on excellent guests who are top-notch businesspeople. I learn something invaluable each episode whether it’s about managing people or about making Looks & Merit better. I also have really enjoyed some of the episodes of the podcast Work Party. When I was in college, before I moved to NYC for the summer to intern at ELLE Magazine, I read Kelly Cutrone’s epic book, If You Have to Cry, Go Outside. I think legitimately every female should read that book. It toughened me up and put things into perspective, yet totally inspired me. I love to read for fun and have been trying to read Liane Moriarty’s Nine Perfect Strangers for over a month but keep getting interrupted hah… anything she writes (Big Little Lies, The Husband’s Secret) is fabulous, though. I really enjoyed Joan Juliet Buck (the only American to ever be at the helm of Vogue Paris as editor in chief)’s memoir, called The Price of Illusion. About a year ago I read The Devil Wear Prada’s sequel novel, When Life Gives you Lululemons by Laurel Weisberger, and it was laugh out loud funny and so well-written.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given, and who gave it to you?
The first thing that comes to mind is something my husband (who is also an entrepreneur, attorney, and by far one of the smartest and most hard-working and thorough people I have ever come in contact with) told me years ago while we were still dating and I was in a tumultuous work situation. Matt said to “stay even” because there were always going to be days with incredible highs and even more days with terrible lows and that you really don’t need to be swayed by either. If you keep your head down and keep thinking big picture, you aren’t constantly on this emotional roller coaster that’s dependent on your work day… you’re always looking forward and are able to appreciate the good things, learn from the bad things and maintain your composure all the while.

You can stay in the know by following Looks and Merit on Instagram here or read her blog here. And don’t forget to check out our upcoming issue featuring Hannah’s home.

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4 Garden Fresh Recipes for Fourth of July Weekend

By
Catherine Romero
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While we fully intend to enjoy some good old-fashioned barbecue, baked beans, coleslaw and apple pie, Leslie Register, of Leslie’s Party Diaries, offers up some tantalizing summer fare with these four garden fresh recipes that are sure to be a welcome addition to any Fourth of July picnic or potluck spread.

Summer Watermelon and Tomato Salad

1/2 of a medium seedless watermelon
1 red onion, cut in half vertically and thinly sliced
2 cups pear-shaped yellow tomatoes, cut in half
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 (4-ounce) package block feta cheese
Fresh mint or basil leaves for garnish

Cube watermelon into bite-size pieces, and place in a large bowl; add onion and tomato halves. Whisk together oil and vinegar until blended; stir in mint and basil. Drizzle over watermelon; toss gently. Add salt and pepper to taste. Top with feta cheese, and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh mint or basil leaves. Serves 8 – 10.

Learn from Leslie: To make a watermelon bowl, carefully cut the top third of the watermelon off horizontally, and then remove watermelon in 1-inch sections or rows. When all is removed, neaten up the edges with a paring knife, and scoop out excess juices with a large spoon.

Baked Corn and Jalapeño Dip

4 ears corn, kernels removed
4 ounces light cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, grated, divided
1 (4-ounce) can mild green chiles, drained
1/2 small Vidalia or sweet onion, finely chopped
3 to 4 jalapeños, seeded and chopped, reserving a few slices for garnish
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
Jalapeño slices for garnish
Corn chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine first 7 ingredients in a medium bowl, reserving ½ cup of the Cheddar cheese. Place corn mixture into a lightly greased, 1½-quart ovenproof dish. Bake for 20 minutes; top with remaining cheese and bacon, and bake 10 more minutes or until hot and bubbly. Garnish with jalapeño slices. Serve with corn chips (Leslie likes Frito Scoops). Serves 8 – 10.

Scallopini Chicken Fingers

2 pounds chicken tenders (about 10)
2 cups panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
1 cup Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
Lemon slices and fresh herbs for garnish

Place chicken tenders between two sheets of wax paper. Using a meat pounder or rolling pin, pound chicken tenders to ¼- to ½-inch thickness. Combine next 3 ingredients in a shallow dish; set aside. In a separate dish, stir together eggs; add 1 tablespoon water. In a large nonstick skillet, heat half of the oil and butter on medium-high heat. Dip each tender into egg mixture and then panko. Place into hot skillet, cooking half at a time so as not to crowd the skillet. Use remaining butter and oil for the second batch. Keep cooked tenders warm on a cooling rack resting on a baking sheet in a 250 degree oven while cooking the remaining chicken. Serve warm on a platter. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs. Serves 6 – 8.

The Ultimate Cobbler Topping

3 cups all-purpose flour
1¼ cups granulated sugar
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup light brown sugar
1 cup slivered almonds, crushed
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pound unsalted butter (4 sticks)

Combine all ingredients except butter in a medium bowl. Cut butter into small pieces and add to mixture. With the tines of a fork or a pastry blender, incorporate the butter evenly into the mixture. Using your fingers, make pea-size clumps. Divide into 4 Ziplock bags, and store in freezer until ready to use. Enough for 4 (9-inch) cobblers.

Learn from Leslie: For the 6-inch blueberry cobbler in the photo right, use:

1 pint of blueberries
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon lemon zest
juice from 1/2 of a lemon
1 tablespoon flour in the berry mixture

Top with 1 cup of The Ultimate Cobbler Topping. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes until hot and bubbly and golden brown. Note: This topping works with all fruits and berries. Cooking times may vary depending on size of fruit and baking pan.

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6 Gardens to Visit this Summer

By
Catherine Romero
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Photo courtesy Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham, Ala.
Free admission, open daily

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens includes 67.5 acres filled with more than 30 thematic gardens, each one classified into one of three types: Gardens of Collections, Gardens of Nature and Gardens of Culture. Guided tours are available daily, but should be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Specialized tours, such as Alabama’s Amazing Biodiversity tours, Fern Glade tours, Japanese Gardens tours, or other special-request tours, should be scheduled at least four weeks in advance. The BBG hosts numerous events and educational programs year round and offers a café, art gallery, gift shop, library and special event rentals.

Photo courtesy Aldridge Gardens

Aldridge Gardens

3530 Lorna Road, Hoover, Ala.
Free Admission, open daily

Aldridge Gardens, the 30-acre former property of the late horticulturist Eddie Aldridge and his wife Kay, opened in 2002. The garden showcases hydrangeas, including the Snowflake Hydrangea, which was patented by Mr. Aldridge and is now the official flower of the City of Hoover. Other features include an event venue and gallery in the couple’s former home, an outdoor pavilion, a five-acre lake and a half-mile walking trail. The Gardens also host plant sales, art exhibits, classes, bird walks, fishing days and more.

Photo courtesy Huntsville Botanical Gardens

Huntsville Botanical Gardens

4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, Ala.
$14 admission, open daily

Huntsville Botanical Gardens is open year-round and features a picture-perfect aquatic garden and specialty gardens throughout the 112 acres. With wildlife, foliage, florals, trails, specialty gardens, pavilions, a butterfly house, walkways, and lakes, there is something for everyone at the Huntsville Botanical Gardens. The Children’s Garden and Nature Center contain the nation’s largest seasonal butterfly house, open May through September. The Garden has a café, gift shop, indoor and outdoor facility rental options, as well as elementary and adult education programs.

Photo courtesy Mobile Botanical Gardens

Mobile Botanical Gardens

5151 Museum Drive, Mobile, Ala.
$8 admission, open Wednesday through Sunday

Mobile Botanical Gardens (MBG) includes one hundred acres of paved garden areas and woodland gardens and trails. The MBG are home to the largest collection of plants on the Gulf Coast. Visit and learn about the diversity of local plant and wildlife. From learning opportunities to plant sales, there are myriad events, including plant sales and sketching classes, for visitors to enjoy.

Photo courtesy Dothan Area Botanical Gardens

Dothan Area Botanical Gardens

5130 Headland Ave., Dothan, Ala.
$5 admission, open daily

Consisting of 50 acres of cultivated gardens, nature trails and undeveloped, wooded landscape, the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens is home to 24 gardens joined by a paved trail. The gardens feature the native plant life, as well as traditional botanical garden elements. There’s even a Lock Gate where visitors can add a padlock to symbolize the love they have for another. Visitors can also enjoy events, tours and a newly expanded gift shop.

Photo courtesy Bellingrath Gardens and Home

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, Ala.
$14 – $22, open daily

Bellingrath Gardens and Home features 65 acres of land along the Fowl River cultivated with annual blooms and continuous color for guests to enjoy. Visitors can enjoy lunch at the Magnolia Cafe and find gifts and souvenirs at the Bellingrath Gift Shop. In addition, the park hosts various special events, including car shows, concerts and more.

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Expert Summer Gardening Tips

By
Catherine Romero
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This Shade combo includes: caladiums, maidenhair fern, blue torenia, bounce impatiens, babywing begonia white, creeping Jenny and Joseph’s coat.

Planting

Prepare the soil by tilling or loosening existing soil and adding organic material such as compost, top soil, soil conditioner or mushroom compost. This will allow the roots to spread deeper and wider, allowing plants to stay better hydrated and anchored.

Dig hole for each plant about half the depth, but twice the width of the root ball. Mound the soil up to the top of the root ball, almost creating a mound with the plant at the top. This will allow water to shed off of the root ball which will keep the root system from rotting.

Loosen the root system of the plant by pulling roots loose or “scoring” roots with a knife to allow the roots to enter new soil.

Stagger plants forming a triangular pattern, keeping tall plants to the back and low growing plants to the front of the bed and don’t line plants up in soldier fashion! This will give your garden a much more natural look.

Watering & Fertilization

Watering in the morning hours is always best. Water for longer periods of times fewer times a week, rather than watering a little each day. This will allow water to get deeper into the soil and attract the roots to grow deeper.

Plant with a time release fertilizer, such as Osmocote as a supplement throughout the season with a liquid food.

Mulch the garden lightly to help hold in moisture and help keep weeds at bay. Be careful not to let the mulch mound atop the stems of the plants.

This Sun planter combo includes: lilac pentas, white salvia, “blue my mind” evolvulus, yellow mecardonia, lavender lantana and pink catharanthus.

Choosing Plants

Make sure to choose plants appropriate for your conditions. Watch the sun so you know how many hours a day the area is getting sun. Is it morning sun? Hot afternoon sun? Shade? Investigate plants to see if they will perform all summer or if they are more of a spring blooming variety.  

Mix perennials (plants that come back every year) and annuals (plants that bloom the season, but need replacing). This will give you color all season and give you plants that don’t need to be replaced.

Pay attention to the maximum heights of the plant, as well as the appropriate spacing so you don’t crowd the garden.

Enjoy your Garden

After you’ve put in the work, it’s finally time to enjoy your garden!

Tend the area by “deadheading” (cropping off old spent blooms to keep new ones coming). Replace old spent plants with new ones as needed.

View your garden at different times during the day to make sure the plants aren’t getting too much or too little sun.

Move things around as they grow and change, if necessary. 

Water and fertilize throughout the growing season.

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Two Renovations, One Stunning Vestavia Hills Home

By
Paige Townley
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Built in 1949, the original structure had no style, says designer Doug Davis of Hannon Douglas. “It was dark, the window placement didn’t make any sense, the front door was hidden, and the roofline was off.” Photos by Jean Allsopp

An old house that’s been sitting vacant for years with an overgrown yard, green shag carpet, and water coming out of the walls would be more than enough to scare most people away—but not Peter Falkner. A landscape design specialist, Peter saw well past the current state of the home to the potential of perfection—especially since it was in a sought-after Vestavia Hills neighborhood that he and his wife, Marchelle, wanted to call home. “It definitely wasn’t cute,” says Peter, “but it excited me because I love a project and the chance to create something out of nothing.”

To make the project happen, Peter called on Doug Davis of Hannon Douglas, who formulated the plan for adding some style to the unsightly exterior and opening up the interior to accommodate kids, as well as a love of entertaining. Doug transformed the den into a master suite, converted the carport into a playroom, and updated the kitchen. On the outside, he changed the angle of the roof, centered the front windows, and added a front porch to give the home a defining element. A fresh coat of paint and two shutters later, the house was much better suited for the family of four. But with two growing boys, the Falkners soon realized that they still needed more space. That’s when Peter once again called in Doug to do the only possible thing—go up. “We just couldn’t move,” Peter says. “We already loved the house and its location.”

Doug creatively worked out a way to add a second story without disturbing the work done in the previous renovation or making the house look too large—something Peter and Marchelle were trying to avoid. He added height to only one side so that the house didn’t feel big, allowing space for a new playroom, bunk room for guests, bathroom, and the boys’ bedroom upstairs. The downstairs playroom was converted into an office, and a downstairs bedroom became the dining room. “I had envisioned an inviting cottage, and with Doug’s help we thankfully made that happen,” Peter says. “We now have our ideal house to call our forever home.”

“Even though the house was in bad shape when we bought it, I knew we could do something incredible with it. The footprint of the home was great, and it sat on a beautiful corner lot. It offered a lot more than you’d think.” —Peter Falkner

Open Up the Interior

During the first renovation, Doug opened up the closed-off layout and gave the family some much-needed space, including a larger kitchen, a master suite, and a playroom. “One of the biggest things we realized is that we could do a lot more with that space than we originally anticipated,” Peter says.

Elevate the Exterior

While creating more space inside was a priority, giving the exterior a serious face-lift was also important. The couple wanted to keep a cottage feel, so they opted to paint the entire exterior white and add shutters, which were painted dark blue. Doug wrapped the chimney in stone to add in some character and interest, as well as to make sure the house didn’t look too washed out.

Lavish Landscape

As a landscape designer, Peter put his expertise to work in his own yard by creating a simple, clean look featuring hollies, boxwoods, and all sorts of flowers. “Between the pots, garden, and the flowers around the fence, we always have something blooming,” he says. For storage, Peter designed a shed and covered it in cedar shake. He then added shutters to the structure to match the house.

Thinking From All Angles

The house sits on a corner lot, which means two different sides of the home are visible on two different streets. To keep the house from feeling too large and overwhelming, Doug came up with the idea of adding the second story on one side only and reworking the roofline to make sure every visible side is attractive. He also turned the front door so that it faces a side street instead of keeping everything facing the same direction.

Mixed Materials

To maintain the cottage feel, Doug mixed the materials on the house, opting for siding on the second floor instead of more brick. “Building the second level with brick would have made the house feel too serious and imposing,” he says. “Keeping the heavier base with something lighter on top helps it not to appear too large.”

Small Details

When planning the second story, Doug looked for ways to help the house keep its all-American, cottage feel. One way he did so was by including mitered corners on the siding so that the corners turn out. “That detail gives the house some dimension and shadow,” he says. “It’s also a classic look and a great way to transition between heavier brick and a lighter material like siding.”

Extra Additions

In addition to upstairs space, the second renovation gave the family many more usable areas, including a foyer, laundry room, covered porch, and downstairs guest bedroom. “We were able to double the original home’s square footage without creating a house that looks really big,” Peter says. “We wanted it to feel as much like a one-story house as possible while also preserving the work done from the first renovation.”

Resources

Landscape design and installation, outdoor lighting, and grilling terrace: Falkner Gardens, falknergardens.com Designer: Doug Davis, Hannon Douglas, hannondouglas.com Builder: Franks Building Company, franksbuildingcompany.com Chairs on porch: Summer Classics, 205.358.9200, summerclassics.com

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The Defining Style of Willow Homes

By
Cathy Still McGowin
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Photos by Tommy Daspit

Whether building new or renovating an existing home, the design team at Willow Homes brings thoughtful floor plans, authentic character, and stylish looks to Birmingham’s favorite neighborhoods. Take a look at some of their work, and get to know the experts behind the designs.

Your tagline is design, build, renew. We love this—especially the word “renew.” How does this mantra guide what you do?
We are always working to “renew” the places our clients spend their time, whether it’s a kitchen, a family room, a condo, or an entire home. That same idea of renewal is a core concept in how we go about choosing where and how we design or build. We are working to help renew existing neighborhoods, thereby doing our part to hopefully help renew Birmingham.

We strive to find creative and exciting ways to breathe new life into the spaces our clients call home. Whether we are sourcing unique and durable products to turn an outdated kitchens into a gorgeous, yet highly functional, family center; bringing an artistic and timeless quality to an old fireplace; or figuring out an interesting way to reuse the beautiful old wood and brick from the original homestead, we love the entire process and always have fun along the way.

You really are a turnkey business! Can you help me with my new home or renovation, as well as my budget, from start to finish?
Yes, we can assist in every aspect of a project, including the budget. We often tell our clients that “shopping” in our industry is unlike any other purchase you make. When creating an estimate for a project, we put our expertise and experience to work, and we look closely at which customized design attributes should go in each home. And we are constantly improving our ability to estimate costs. Our team consists of experienced estimators, project managers, and designers who have the ability to deliver, from concept to move-in, on any project down to the smallest details, including turnkey furniture installation and window treatments.

I don’t need help with everything. Can I work with just Willow Homes or Willow Design Studios?
Absolutely! We offer a variety of services across the home-design spectrum. We can help our clients evaluate a lot they are considering for a new build or decide if an existing house is suitable for initial purchase. We also can design a new home or renovation or provide an estimate on house plans a client already owns. In addition, our design team has the resources and creativity to simply help clients freshen up the furniture and window treatments in their current home at a great price.

What have been some of your favorite designs?
Our favorites usually are the ones that prove to be the most challenging. Those projects may involve working with a unique space or an odd-sized lot and turning it into something really cool. We’ve also learned that eliminating wasted space and getting the most from a home’s existing square footage is often the best way to keep a project on budget.

What is essential to home design for today that will keep it relevant in years to come?
For us, it’s important to keep evolving in our designs while also looking back in time for inspiration. Our goal is to create something that is useful and artistic, as well as timeless. And while trends certainly inform us, we also work hard to make each home unique in its own way.

You work all over the city yet you call Homewood home. Why?
It comes back to the idea of renewal. The City of Homewood went through a great resurgence years ago, and with that came an increased interest in living here. The growth has created a mix of old and new in existing neighborhoods. Just like all areas of Birmingham, there is opportunity here to keep what is already great while also improving on other aspects.

Another reason we were drawn to this area involves the relationships and simplicity that come from the small-town friendliness. There’s simple pleasure in getting an ice-cream cone after school, riding bikes over to the library and the park, or walking to the elementary school to see your child in a play and then meeting up with neighbors for a fun, affordable meal at one of the many local restaurants. Homewood is a special place, and we love being a part of it.

Expert Advice

Create an interesting architectural envelope with high ceilings, thoughtful trim work, and pretty details.

Allow enough space on a front porch to accommodate a porch swing.

Place doors and windows (with transoms) strategically to allow for the maximum amount of natural light.

Keep historical details such as butler’s pantries and full walk-in pantries, wood-burning fireplaces on sleeping porches, and telephone shelves turned into well-placed charging stations.

Add built-ins, bookcases, window seats, and locker bays for storage and character.

Make a statement in a half bath. Sometimes the smallest rooms make the biggest impact. Some of our favorite details include wallpaper, antique mirrored glass, or a dark paint color. We also like a furniture vanity with a wall-mount faucet and a stunning light fixture.

Meet the Team

Willow Homes is an award-winning firm founded by the father-and-son team of Rob and Jason Hale. Rob is a third-generation homebuilder, while Jason left his law practice to join his father in creating the company. It has now become one of the fastest growing boutique construction firms in Birmingham. Willow Design Studios is owned by designer Allison Hallman (Rob’s daughter and Jason’s sister) and designer Katherine Bailey. Together, Willow Homes and Willow Design Studios handles new builds and renovations.

From Left: Jason Hale, Rob Hale, Allison Hallman, Katherine Bailey

Willow Homes • 205.206.6121 • IG: willowhomesbham

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AIA 2018 Residential Award Winners

By
Catherine Romero
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The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Birmingham Chapter’s primary goal is to promote good design and quality in the practice of architecture. The AIA has a long tradition of recognizing individuals and organizations for their outstanding achievements in support of the profession of architecture and the AIA.

Each year, AIA celebrates the best buildings and spaces—and the people behind them—with some of the most prestigious awards in the built environment. There are three categories: Honor Awards, Merit Awards and Citations. Take a look at the AIA Birmingham Chapter’s 2018 award winners for residential design and stay tuned for the 2019 Design Awards on June 10!

Honor Award

Factor 48 Residence, Leeds, AL
Architect: Richard Pigford, ArchitectureWorks, LLP

An exterior view of the home from the courtyard. Photo by Chris Luker
An abundance of natural light, as well as the use of wood, adds to the warmth of the kitchen. Photo by Chris Luker
This private residence was once a competition horse training facility. Photo by Chris Luker
Existing stalls were converted into a master suite. Photo by Chris Luker

A competition horse training facility turned private residence with studio designed by Richard Pigford, ArchitectureWorks, LLP with Brasfield & Gorrie as the general contractor. Existing horse stalls were converted into a master suite. Additional living and kitchen areas were added, as well as an exterior courtyard, pool and gardens making this natural light-filled space a truly remarkable gem.

Merit Award

Cabin Noir, Lake Martin, Alabama
Architect: Alex Krumdieck, Krumdieck A+I

Cabin Noir as seen from the drive. Photo by Rob Culpepper
The kitchen island anchors the space with its dark countertop and stained wood base. Photo by Rob Culpepper
An 18 foot long screened porch allows for a conversation area, as well as a dining area. Photo by Rob Culpepper
The white walls of the dining room are the perfect backdrop for a gallery wall of eclectic art. Photo by Rob Culpepper

Stained black with a black metal roof, the exterior of Cabin Noir blends unassumingly into the bosky shoreline of Lake Martin. In contrast, the interior is light and bright showcasing a collection of art while also providing multiple framed views of nature’s own art. This home built by Classic Homes was featured in our March/April issue so you can tour it here.

Citation Award

Hughes Family Lakehouse, Smith Lake, AL
Architect: Nequette Architecture & Design

Two linear bar buildings join to form an “L” shaped home on Smith Lake. Photo by Chris Luker
The view from the main mass of the home highlights the removal of the living room corner through the opening the doors. Photo by Chris Luker
The dining room, living room and kitchen look out over the pool and Smith Lake. Photo by Chris Luker
Soft warmer materials are used in the bedrooms with more durable stone surfaces in the living spaces for an indoor- outdoor experience that seamlessly connects to the natural environment of the wooded site. Photo by Chris Luker

The Hughes Lake House, designed by Louis Nequette and constructed by Hughes Capital Partners, is situated on a sloping site on the waterfront of Smith Lake. With its modern sensibility, the “L” shaped home is built with clean lines allowing it to blend seamlessly into the wooded site with unobstructed views of the lake.

To see more award winning Birmingham projects visit AIA Birmingham.

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Q&A: Designer Stephanie Lynton

By
Catherine Romero
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Photos by Jean Allsopp
Designer Stephanie Lynton

Stephanie Lynton, multi-talented lawyer turned designer, is known for creating colorful, personality-infused, yet highly functional spaces that bring joy and order to the home. Her design aesthetic is classic, bold, yet full of surprises, layering color and texture to create the perfect mix of style and function. We asked Stephanie to share some design insights, favorite resources, and update us on her 2019 Inspiration Home plans.

Why do you do what you do?
Your home should be the most charming and revitalizing place for you. From the creature-comforts of plush furniture to the colors and patterns that make you smile, I enjoy being a part of the creative process that achieves those goals.

Favorite local design resources:
Paige Albright Orientals and Domicile
DSR and MCJ (trade only resources)

Go to paint colors:
Mascarpone—Benjamin Moore
Nimbus Gray—Benjamin Moore

Trends vs. Timeless—where do you fall?
Comfort and function are paramount, so whether an element is timeless or on-trend, good design is good design in the end.

IG accounts that inspire you:
@passionfortulips @gustthepoodle @sheema713

What is your favorite space to design?
I like to design the work-horse rooms: Foyers/Mudrooms, Laundry Rooms, Kitchens, Closets, and Pantries. For me, having a place for everything, and everything in its place provides the palette on which to begin mixing colors and layering the decorative elements.

Tell us a little about the space you are designing for the Inspiration Home:
“Surprise, surprise, surprise” (Gomer Pyle style) – I chose the mudroom, laundry, and pantry! These rooms are going to be clad in joyful and energetic wallpaper and colors in addition to serving their function for the homeowners.

Do you have a design motto you live by?
“Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living.” Dr. Seuss.

Click here to see more of Stephanie Lynton’s home

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A Family-Friendly Renovation in Mountain Brook

By
Caroline McKenzie
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Before The home was handsome, but the façade lacked depth. Inside, a disjointed floor plan left the homeowners feeling cramped. After A reimagined portico and contrasting conservatory-style office bring dimension to the exterior, while new French doors and an expanded front patio connect the indoors and out. Photos by Holland Williams Photography
Both the homeowners and the designers cite the office as the favorite room in the house. With white-washed, oak-paneled walls, a pecky cypress ceiling, and window treatments in a meandering bird-and-vine motif, the room is a wonderfully Southern take on the look of an Old English library.

Sarah and Dave Stewart are firm believers in the “you-should-live-in-a-house-before-you-renovate-it” adage. Two years after moving into their circa -1940s Mountain Brook home, the couple realized that, while lovely and spacious, the house just wasn’t working for their family. “By that point we had two young children, and the closed-off floor plan was problematic on a daily basis,” Sarah says. “In addition, the kids’ bedrooms and our master suite were at opposite ends of the house. We also didn’t like that the living area was situated far away from the kitchen.”

The Stewarts did, however, love the location of the home, as well as its beautiful, old bones, so they decided to embark on an ambitious whole-house overhaul that would create a more family-friendly flow and better reflect their personal styles. They enlisted the help of Christopher Architecture & Interiors to spearhead the project and revamp the home’s overall layout.

The couple went through multiple rounds of blueprints until they found a floor plan they felt would work with their day-to-day lives for years to come. What they landed on involved strategically opening up the kitchen and dining room, adding a sunny home office at the front of the house, and creating an equally light-filled family room off the back. “As a result, the kitchen feels like what it was meant to be—the heart of the home,” says Sarah. “Now we can enjoy each other’s company in this easy, laidback setting.”

With the floor plan problems solved, the couple next turned their attention to enhancing the home’s style both indoors and out. Outside, they took a less-is-more approach, working with Dave Eyrich of Environmental Design Studio to create a nuanced mix of ground coverings and shrubbery. “The house used to feel perched on the lot, but we worked with the natural topography to make it feel more nestled,” says the landscape architect. “We also created layers of fencing and beds so there’s a better sense of privacy.”

Inside, the Stewarts turned to the professionals at Chickadee Interiors to enliven the spaces with color, as well as merge Dave’s traditional sensibilities with Sarah’s more modern eye. “This house turned out to be a fun challenge because Dave and Sarah have such differing style preferences,” says Chickadee Interiors co-owner Kate Hartman. The solution involved a strategic formula of timeless motifs in the form of florals and chinoiserie-style toiles, along with antique furnishings, modern art, and pops of blue in varying shades. “From indigo to robin’s egg, blue hues became a central theme throughout this project,” says Kelly Petro Neely, Kate’s business partner at Chickadee Interiors. “Blue is one of the few colors that can read as both classic and on-trend.”

With the renovation and redesign now complete, the Stewarts have no doubt that the results more than exceeded their expectations. As Sarah says, “It feels like the home was tailor-made for us, but it also still has that old-house charm. It’s the best of both worlds right under one roof.”

Brass accents, including the curvy chandelier and detailing on the range hood, warm up the neutral kitchen.
The home’s thread of blue takes a dramatic turn with an enveloping navy blue in the pass-through bar addition.
The expanded breakfast banquette was integral to the family-friendly sight lines the Stewarts craved.
The dining room is a feast for the eyes with a mix of pieces the Stewarts already owned, such as an antique farmhouse table and a Persian rug, as well as new additions incorporated by Chickadee Interiors, such as the sunburst mirror and custom-painted Louis XVI dining chairs.
Chickadee Interiors loosened up the feel of the dining room’s more traditional elements with abstract art by Laura Park and a clean-lined, shell-inlayed credenza.
When Sarah wanted blush and Dave wanted blue in the new den, the designers at Chickadee Interiors came up with a his-and-hers combo of throw pillows that marry the two, as well as a heaping helping of green and leopard print for good measure. A pivotal addition in the renovation, the den benefits from abundant sunshine. Lush linen curtain panels let the Stewarts control light and privacy as they see fit.
Chickadee Interiors brightened up the formerly dark master bedroom with a host of white furniture and accessories, such as the upholstered headboard, shapely wingbacks, and sleek side tables. Rich turquoise textiles add just the right touch of sophistication to the airy space.

Design Speak

Kate Hartman and Kelly Petro Neely are co-owners of the interiors shop and design firm, Chickadee Interiors.

Design Philosophy A house should look like it has evolved over time. Our style is all about a collected look, with layers that tell a story about the person who uses the space.

Color Cues We love to repeat a shade throughout a house. (In this home, it was blue.) From window treatments and pillows to artwork and paint colors, the various pops keep a house interesting but also create a visual connection from room to room.

Pattern Play When mixing patterns, which we love to do, we try to use an equal number of large-and small-scale prints, along with one anchoring solid. This balance keeps the various designs from fighting for your attention. 

Favorite accessory Pillows—lots of them! Decorative pillows can bring life to a room by providing pattern and texture without overwhelming a space. 

While the portico and conservatory are the showstoppers of the renovation, subtler elements such as the windows boxes further dimensionalize the exterior.

Curb Appeal with Dave Eyrich

Easiest Update Make sure your bed lines are well-defined. (You can use a shovel and pine straw to achieve this result.) This low-effort, low-cost enhancement will make plantings pop.

Ultimate Southern Combo Boxwoods and hydrangeas. Boxwoods provide necessary punctuation points in a landscape. And I can’t imagine anyone who cannot find a variety of hydrangeas to love. Plus they thrive in our region!

Most overlooked shrub Azaleas. They often get a bad rap because our grandparents’ azaleas were older, spindly varieties. But the indica azaleas are attractive, leafy shrubs that mass well and look nice even when not in bloom.  

RESOURCES
Architecture: Christopher Architecture & Interiors, christopherai.com, 205.413.8531 Interior Design: Chickadee Interiors, chickadeeinteriors.com, 205.969.3138  Construction: Cotton Construction, cottonconstructioninc.com, 205.413.1962 Landscape Design: Dave Eyrich of Environmental Design Studio, environmentaldesignstudio.com, 205.582.2052

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What’s Happening at Lake Martin this Weekend

By
Catherine Romero
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Springhouse Restaurant

Lucky enough to be at Lake Martin for Memorial Day weekend? Here’s what’s happening this weekend. Plus, a cocktail recipe from Springhouse Restaurant to kick off summer and get the party started!

RXR Fest

May 24 – 25 | Russell Crossroads | Free
Enjoy music on The Town Green at Russell Crossroads May 24 & May 25. Bring your chairs and coolers and join your family and friends for a fun-filled time. For the schedule and a listen to the amazing bands in the lineup here.

Raptors on Display

Friday, May 24: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, May 25: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Monday, May 27: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Get up close and personal with birds of prey at the Naturalist’s Cabin during the RXR Fest. The resident naturalist will be on hand to discuss the variety of species living in Russell Forest. She’ll share tips for how to attract certain types of birds to your yard, and what to do if you’re trying to discourage them from nesting or destroying your property. Bring your bird questions and your camera!

Yoga on the Green

May 25 | 7 a.m. – 8 a.m. | Russell Crossroads
Join the Yoga gang Saturday morning on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. All levels are welcome!

SpringHouse Sunday Night Supper

May 26 | 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | SpringHouse | $50
Sunday Night Supper is a departure from the typical night at Springhouse. On this night, Chef Rob McDaniel serves his fresh fare family-style. Doors open for cocktails and mingling at 6:00 pm with food served at 6:30 pm. Limited to 80 guests, the cost is $50++ per person (not to include alcohol, which is charged by consumption), and $25++ per person for children under 12. For reservations, call SpringHouse at 256-215-7080.

Refreshing summer cocktail by Scott Burlingame, bar manager at SpringHouse Restaurant

Here Comes The Sun

Scott Burlingame, bar manager at SpringHouse, shares this bright and fresh beverage to bring on the sun because SUMMER IS HERE!

1.5 oz Bombay Dry Gin
1.5 oz Fresh Citrus
1.25 oz Housemade Orange Marmalade*
3 dashes Angostura Bitters

Stir all ingredients in a mixing glass.
Strain and pour beverage, garnish with a twist of orange.

*You can use store bought marmalade or make your own with this recipe.

Cheers to summer sunshine and good times at the lake!

Find out more about Russell Lands On Lake Martin and upcoming events

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