Fine Finishes: South Cypress

By
Molly Lipski Powell
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Art galleries are a world unto themselves—the white walls  and quiet, almost muted surroundings lend a sober air to the canvases, prints, and sculptures to be marveled at. Being ushered in through the doors of the South Cypress showroom recalls the same sentiments, but instead of canvases and sculptures, the eye is drawn to flooring and tile. One after the other, glass, ceramic, stone, porcelain, concrete, vinyl, and wood tiles and slabs are arranged with precision to showcase an array of possibilities.

When WB “Tommy” Humphreys returned from WWII, artistic expression wasn’t top of mind. He needed a job, but wanted to try his hand at something besides the family farm. A local businessman, JB Stokes, was looking for someone to help franchise and run a new location of his flooring store in Mobile, and Tommy jumped at the chance. Of course, this didn’t come without obstacles: two other men had applied for the same position, so Stokes pitted them against one another. Stokes hired all three men for one week and promised that whichever of them performed best could have the job. Tommy won, eventually purchased his branch of the company, and the rest, as they say, is history. This history is a proud one, and one that employees and clients alike are greeted with in the showroom and office. CEO Drew Goneke, Tommy’s grandson, and his family have created a short timeline with pictures and key dates to highlight how far they’ve come and motivate them all to keep making progress in a business that can, at times, do anything but.

South Cypress’s forward-thinking business model has lead to an immense online presence, and the company now ships their range of South Cypress-branded products across the US using a network of carefully cultivated suppliers. Those suppliers, Drew notes, “value what we value, and we go through peaks and valleys together. Together, we do the right thing by our clients.” The South Cypress team knows that every tile and plank is representative of the company itself, so the design, sales, purchasing, and customer service teams monitor each aspect of the process from start to finish.

While the website doesn’t offer the gallery feel of the showroom, it does provide a simple, clean interface that meets the needs of almost any prospective client. The best feature? A Room Visualizer that allows users to upload a picture of their space and test out the spectrum of different flooring options. Clients can then order directly from the site, or visit the showroom to explore their options with designer Karen Royal.
 

The innovation of South Cypress doesn’t stop at the web browser, though. Keeping the newest middle-to-high end products available at value prices allows the team to monitor every advancement and new trend as it hits the market. “We’re seeing a movement from urethane finished hardwoods to oiled, engineered hardwoods, which is perfect for the Alabama humidity, as oiled pieces are more resistant to moisture levels. There’s also a push for porcelain tile instead of marble—it’s more durable and cost-effective.” To be sure, South Cypress has its history and experience melded seamlessly with its vision for the future.

South Cypress // 800.891.2623 • southcypress.com
 

Text by Molly L. Powell // Photography by art meripol

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Historic Hollywood Homes Tour 2018

By
Jean Allsopp Photography
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Nestled within the city of Homewood, the Hollywood neighborhood feels like a step back in time. Winding, tree-lined streets feature an array of stately homes, most dating back to the 1920s. To add to its appeal, the community is located within minutes of restaurants, shopping, award-winning schools, and even downtown. As a result, houses are in high demand and hard to come by. But don’t worry—you can still experience the charm of this historic neighborhood during this year’s homes tour.

Historic Hollywood Homes Tour 2018 | Sunday, April 22 | 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

The Pearson House

9 Bonita Drive

One of the first streets in Hollywood, Bonita Drive consists of many highly sought-after homes originally owned by prominent Birmingham businessmen and their families, including Clyde Nelson, the developer of Hollywood, and Clarence Lloyd, the mayor of Hollywood. The original owners of this 1926 Spanish Mission-style home were Laura B. and Fay B. Belt, who lived here with their children until 1947. Two more families resided in the house until Mary Scott and Blake Pearson purchased it in 2010.

Though the house underwent a significant renovation in 2006 that included a second level and a new den on the back, the Pearsons undertook another update in 2017. They moved a bathroom and mudroom to form a spacious butler’s pantry and also created an outdoor living area with a fireplace, outdoor kitchen, and separate dining porch. In addition, the upper-level master bedroom gained a covered balcony with a fireplace.

The Davis House

116 Bonita Drive

This home, originally a simple seven-room, brick structure with a carport, was built in 1960 by Mary and W. S. Wengel. Its style was typical of many ranch homes built in Hollywood in the postwar era. The house was sold in late 1960 to Caesarina and J. D. McKinstry, who resold it in 1961 to Anna and Arthur Abrasley. The Abrasleys owned the home from 1961 to 1987. The house had at least two additional owners before 2015.

LeeAnn and Paul Davis purchased the home in 2015 and embarked on a major transformation designed by architect Richard Long of Long & Long Design and constructed by Ruff Reams. Stucco walls and wood rafter tails and corbels brought Spanish style to the exterior. Three sets of French doors now lead into an open-concept kitchen, living room, and dining area. The design team reconfigured the entire interior of the house and added 1, 000 square feet to accommodate a new powder room, laundry room, and master suite.

The Beasley House

239 La Prado Place

This Tudor-style house was originally built in 1928 as a six-room, one-story bungalow with an open porch and a detached two-car garage. Like many other houses in this section of Hollywood, it featured a brick veneer exterior, steep roof, front gable vents, tiled porch, and recessed arched entryway typical of the Tudor Revival style.

The home’s first known owners were Mabel G. and Grady M. Beasley, who purchased it for $14, 000 in the 1930s and lived there until 1972. According to letters from Mr. Beasley to the Jefferson County Board of Equalization, there were no major improvements made to the house until at least 1960.

During 2007 and 2008, the home underwent a significant remodel that involved the addition of a second floor with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a playroom, and a laundry room. The first floor was completely reconfigured to include an open kitchen and den, as well as a main-level master suite.

The current owners purchased the home in 2015. Although the interior has undergone significant renovations, the house still occupies it original footprint and has retained its exterior charm.

The Nix House

306 English Circle

This Tudor Revival home, known as the Bodeker–Woodson–Lang House, was awarded a Jefferson County Historic Marker in 2015. The two-story brick veneer structure with an asphalt roof and a decorative stucco front gable was built in 1926 in the Granada section of Hollywood. It boasted a recessed entrance bay, two porches, and a two-car detached garage. The first owners, Elizabeth and John B. Stratford, sold the home to Norine and Fred J. Bodeker in 1935. The Bodekers resided in the home until its sale to Mary and Lewis Woodson in 1953. Later, the Lang family lived in the home from 1971 to 2014.

Kristi and Dan Logan purchased the home in 2014 and embarked on an extensive reconfiguration of the floor plan. They moved the kitchen to what was once the dining room and turned the original kitchen into a mudroom. On the second level, the couple created a new bathroom from an existing closet in the master bedroom and renovated the hall bathroom. Even with all of these changes, many of the home’s original elements were preserved. The windows and floors, with the exception of the tile floor in the new mudroom, are original. In addition, the chandelier in the powder room once hung in the original dining room.

Virginia and Jeffrey Nix purchased the home in 2016 and began their own renovations by creating a dining porch off the kitchen. The project included rearranging the upstairs floor plan and adding a playroom in the basement.

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Diamond View

By
Cathy Still McGowin
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DESIGN TIP: Clear the decks! Consider alternative materials for deck railing. Code calls for a certain height, but blocky wood slats impedes the view. Here, the designers chose cattle wire for its airy attributes. A bonus? It’s more budget-friendly than stainless steel and offers a modern farmhouse aesthetic.
 

If you were to put together a wish list for the perfect lakehouse, it might go something like this: Must have a view from every room, tall ceilings, room to entertain, bedrooms with private baths, a huge porch for taking in the sunsets, a dock with a really cool boat—oh! and plenty of storage for all of your lake toys. Russell Lands On Lake Martin hears you. And, with a multitude of communities under their belt—from the earliest cabins built in the 1930s to the grand homes at Willow Point—the team at Russell Lands is well versed in creating the dreamy getaways that have long attracted area residents to the shores of one of the state’s most popular recreational lakes.

DESIGN TIP: Think linear when it comes to a stairwell. Nan added visual interest above with the iron chandelier, mid-level with the wood-and iron-railing, and below with a collection of antique paddles and folk art angels.

 

Russell Lands On Lake Martin welcomes its newest introduction: Diamond View. Located at South Ridge Harbor at The Ridge, this home perches above a wide open view of the big water and embodies all the must-haves and more. Together, residential designer Larry Furlong and interior decorator Nan Jackson designed a place that will welcome families and friends for generations with ease of living and plenty of space for creating memories. A step inside the front door reveals the two-story living room that soaks in expansive views and offers comfy, cozy furniture for relaxing and taking it all in. The open floorplan segues into a kitchen with island seating and dining area for laid-back evenings with lake views. Two bedrooms with baths, a laundry, and powder room complete this level. Downstairs, more bedrooms await with bunk beds ready to accommodate kids and weekend guests.

The covered, L-shaped porches upstairs and down are the most coveted living spaces outside the house. Here, Nan has situated a seating area, complete with cushy sofas and rocking chairs, a bar, and a dining table. Mom and dad can enjoy the shade while the kids hang out on the dock below.

Throughout the house, the decor is lakey without being kitschy. Nan chose tabletop designs from Table Matters and artwork and organic accents from Design Supply, both in Birmingham. “I like to pull from a lot of places to create a collected look, and leave room for someone to make their own mark, ” the designer says of the many spec homes she creates.

The place for all those toys? There’s a garage for the golf cart, and underneath the house, there’s room to go organization-crazy with a lake-level laundry room; plentiful closets; and a gear room sizable enough to fit water mats, kayaks, canoes, and more. Better start shopping and stock up at one of the lake’s several marinas. Warmer weather is on the horizon, and with this view, you can see it coming from a mile away.

DESIGN TIP: Durable and dual-purpose furnishings are key to easy lake living. Some of the decorator’s must-haves? Easy-care fabrics and leather (for all those wet swimsuit bottoms!), swivel chairs (for taking in the room or the view), lots of little gathering spots (for encouraging conversation), and game tables.
 

  

ABOVE RIGHT Artwork by Arthur Price from Gallery 1930 and a table setting from Table Matters showcase woodland scenes.
 

DESIGN TIP: Take inspiration from the great outdoors when planning your interior palette. Wood floors, walls, and  a dark stained island—along with a copper light fixture above the dining table—add that warm, cozy lake feel everyone craves. For a punch of color, tune in to the blues of the lake and sky.
 

  

DESIGN TIP: Everyone loves a well-made bed, but everyone also loves a bed that’s easy to make. Choose cotton coverlets and no-iron sheets to keep guest-changeover time to a minimum.
 

Why the Ridge will always be the perfect spot

Located in the very heart of Lake Martin, The Ridge was planned in an intentional way. And still, its evolution and growth feel organic and natural. “The Ridge is a huge piece of property and we will eventually develop this into 800 waterfront units. We are about two-thirds of the way through our plan, ” says Steve Arnberg, Vice President of Real Estate at Lake Martin Ridge. Residents have access to year-round amenities: a two-tiered swimming area, tennis and fitness center, children’s play park, multi-purpose athletic fields, and more. Over 100 miles of trails that wind their way through the vast Russell Forest connect at The Ridge. Additionally, the 9, 000-square-foot clubhouse is perfect for hosting larger gatherings such as weddings, company retreats, retirement parties, and graduation get-togethers. And if all that was not enough to lure you, remember that from The Ridge, you’ll almost always have time to get to Chimney Rock for one last jump before the sun sets.

Photo by Justin Clayton 

RESOURCES
Interiors: Nan Jackson, Interiors Etc. By Nan • 780.664.5124 Residential Designer: Larry Furlong Builder: Classic Homes, Russell Lands • 256.329.0835 Fixtures, Flooring, Finishes: Russell Home Decor • 256.212.9877 Landscaping: Tim Price, Lake Martin Landscaping • 256.234.3970 Flowers: Susie Kelley, Gracie’s Flowers • 256.234.7538 Plants: Shoppe • 205.224.4450 Furniture and upholstery: Johnson Furniture • 334.541.3195 Monogrammed Towels: In Stitches • 256.749.7700 House Listing: Emily McDaniel and Rhonda Watson • 256.215.7011

Text by Cathy still mcgowin // Photography by jean allsopp

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Front Row Seats

By
Lynn Nesmith
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The window wall folds away, inviting one to leap into the pool or simply swim in the luxury of the panoramic views. Photos by Jean Allsopp

A front-row seat along the Gulf guarantees maximum exposure to the wonders of nature. The water is a constant presence no matter the season, whether obscured by morning fog, sparkling in the midday sun, or lapping on the shore at sunset. Its sounds and scents instill a calm for those who live nearby.

The pool terrace offers relaxed seating and endless views.

For a Birmingham family, all this and more inspired the design of their recently completed beach house. Although they already owned another place in Seagrove, the family was drawn to this property’s secluded feel and loved the fact that it was conveniently located halfway between Seaside and Rosemary Beach. It was the perfect spot to build their retreat.

Hoping to capture both the splendor and fun of living on the beach, local architect Cameron Hughes of Chancey Design Partnership and designers Paige Schnell and Anna Kay Porch of Tracery teamed up to craft a refuge in step with the majestic setting. To maintain the contours of the existing dunes while making the most of views, Cameron angled the structure and positioned the main living spaces on the second floor. “When living areas are elevated, it’s important to create a welcoming entry and procession up through the house, ” says Cameron. A sheltering vestibule outfitted with a wooden day bench and a seascape painting offer an  introduction of things to come. But only when one climbs the elegantly detailed stairway and “arrives” does the magic of this home become apparent.

Twelve-foot-tall ceilings and a seamless interchange between indoors and outdoors create a great room that more than lives up to the name. Traditional architectural details and a gracious furniture arrangement offer a comfortable and familiar formality, but the real focal point of the space is just past the pool terrace. “We wanted to make sure we didn’t do anything to distract from the stunning views of the ocean and the nearby state park, ” says Paige.

The designers established a tranquil mood with a palette of whites and sandy neutrals layered with rich textures. Upholstered pieces in durable cottons and linens combine comfort with practicality. Unexpected accents, such as a mirrored cocktail table, a whimsical furry ottoman, and a polished chrome arc floor lamp, add a bit of modern chic to the space, while seagrass rugs atop natural coral stone flooring encourage laid-back living.

The center of social living is one grand space, where the kitchen and gathering areas offer flexibility and clearly signal a spirit of hospitality. A sunny corner nook accommodates a round table, perfect for small gatherings, games on rainy days, or a spot to work on a laptop.

In a beach house, the kitchen should always be open for business. With this goal in mind, the design team placed the beautiful aspects of the kitchen front and center while the less attractive, hard-working elements are relegated to a large pantry—out of view but still close enough for efficiency.

On the third floor, the master suite also defers to the view and enjoys its own private porch. The bed faces a trio of tall windows, and a pair of facing chairs creates a cozy conversation area that cleverly frames the view.

Overall, the home exudes an open invitation to unwind and enjoy life along the water. With their coastal retreat complete, the family jumps at every chance to head to 30A, whether for a weekend, a week, or longer.

In the master bedroom, colors nod to restful grays and soft blues. A pair of silver coral lamps on the chest and a seascape by a local artist acknowledge the coastal setting.

RESOURCES
Interior Design: Paige Sumblin Schnell and Anna Kay Porch, Tracery, Rosemary Beach, FL shop.traceryinteriors.com Architecture: Cameron Hughes, Chancey Design Partnership, Seagrove, FL chanceydesign.com Select Upholstered Furniture: Lee Industries, leeindustries.com Pool Deck: FireRock firerock.us

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Dreaming in Color: Inside Stephanie Lynton’s Bold Birmingham Home

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
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Photography by Jean Allsopp

A Colorful Escape in Edgewood

In Birmingham, while totally committed to their Edgewood neighborhood and still in love with the charm of their 1934 home, the Lyntons were seeking more space, especially larger-scaled rooms to spread out in and entertain. Instead of moving, they settled on an addition that cleverly joins to the original home and encompasses the backyard carriage house footprint. The project also provided the perfect opportunity for Stephanie Lynton to show off her innate talent for creating bold rooms full of surprises and color.

Meet the Birmingham Designer with a Texas-Sized Eye for Color

The multi-talented native Texan who, despite more than 30 years in Birmingham, maintains some of that independent Lone Star State spirit. When it comes to her decorating aesthetic, Stephanie is writing her own music, a tune that’s filled with zesty color, a mix of styles, plenty of personality, and a well-honed eye for detail. Her passion for design took root as a child when, instead of playing with Barbie, she was constantly decorating the doll’s three-story Dreamhouse.

I used everyday things I found around the house. Patterned paper towels were wallpaper and drapes, and big matchboxes—don’t get me started—they made great dressers, sofas, etc.

While practicing law for 25 years, Stephanie pursued her early passion on the side. And once she had her own home, she began studying design in earnest. As any successful attorney would, Stephanie made sure she was well-versed and prepared before starting every project. She eventually traded in her legal briefs for paint chips, and the result speaks for itself in her Homewood home—a collection of chic rooms beyond even Barbie’s wildest dreams.

A Kitchen Designed for Entertaining

The kitchen has all the dreamed of items for preparing family meals and for lots of baking,  including a convection wall oven, a standing mixer lift, and a Lacanche range with a custom hood designed by Stephanie that’s evocative of a pagoda. But the area also houses a La Mattina (Italian for “the morning”) and contains everything the Lynton family and guests need for breakfast collected together along one wall—built in refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher drawers; an espresso maker; a sink, and storage for cereals and the like.

“We had a party recently, and our friends moved right through the kitchen and into the pantry, ” she says. “I think it’s a pretty and cozy place to hang out.”  The custom mint shade, based on the signature box from Ladurée—the Paris confectionary known for its delectable macarons—is just one of the many color surprises throughout the home.
Stephanie says that calling this space a pantry really does it a disservice because it’s so much more—storage and display for days, including an antique pine hutch-turned-bar and a place for guests to gather.
The entry area in the addition resembles a conservatory with a variety of topiaries and containers filled with boxwoods from Shoppe in Forest Park. A demilune table (part of a pair) sits prettily under a recessed circular window that was on Stephanie’s must-have list. The tableau includes an antique stone statuary of a rabbit family from one of her favorite resources for French antiques in Charleston.

Surprising Spaces Around Every Corner

An extension of the pantry provides a hardworking space for projects and gift-wrapping with its ‘Colorado Gold’ marble countertop (also used in the kitchen). The area is decorated with whimsical teapot brass lanterns and a mounted “long-horned steer head” made out of a mix of materials that gives a nod to Stephanie’s Texas roots. Even the family pet, Jack, scored in the pantry with a built-in custom dog bed that blends in with just the right amount of style.

Mint green pantry storage in colorful Birmingham home
Antique console display at top of stairs in Birmingham designer home
No space is left unconsidered, as this vignette at the top of the stairs demonstrates. “This is my homage to the British 19th-century architect Sir John Soane, who collected all types of architectural artifacts, especially plaster casts, ” says Stephanie. An antique console table holds her collection—19th-century French stone finials; a 19th-century plaster cast from Bruges, Belgium; and other antique plaster fragments.

A Glamorous Bedroom Retreat

“I just had to have a canopy bed, ” laughs Stephanie. “It was a childhood dream of mine!” The fabric treatment hangs directly from the ceiling, creating a dramatic focal point in the space. The hotel suite-like room is wrapped with lacquered walls and built-in bookcases in Benjamin Moore’s ‘Polo Blue.’ An English antique chest, a Swedish settee, and pillows in a checked print bring in a casual note.

Blue lacquer bedroom with canopy bed in Birmingham designer home
Stylish master bathroom with patterned tile in Birmingham home
The master bathroom emits a cool vibe with stained and glazed white oak cabinetry expertly finished by Daniel Whitsett of Paintworks Design Studio. The zigzag floor treatment adds unexpected character to the room balanced out by the sophistication of the paneled walls. While the room offers a bit of restraint, it also included doses of glamour with ornate curvy mirrors, shapely gold sconces, and gold pulls on the drawers. Stephanie’s artistry is evident in this seamless blend of masculine and feminine elements.
Custom closet with red interior in Birmingham luxury home
Closet space—something seriously lacking in the original house—is abundant in the addition. Stephanie made sure that the master closet—a decidedly glamorous room—would have a place for everything. It’s full of black pocket doors with gold trim hand-applied by Stephanie. The inside of her closet is a custom red tone, which makes a pretty backdrop for her shoes and handbags. This area is spacious enough to hold a French armchair and side table.

The Red Library That Doubles as a Guest Room

It’s no surprise that the designer would dedicate an entire room in her vibrant home to bold red. The lively library is wrapped in lipstick-hued walls and layered with eclectic textiles, creating a space that feels both dramatic and inviting. Practicality meets personality here as well—the sofas rest on casters so they can easily shift to face the television, while a wall adorned with a Zendek weaving conceals a Murphy bed, allowing the library to effortlessly double as a guest room. For the home’s official guest suite, Stephanie leaned even further into her love of color and global inspiration. “This room was about creating a happy space full of color and pattern,” she says, noting that portraits of a Tibetan man and woman—along with their richly layered clothing and accessories—inspired the design. Echoing the robes of Tibetan monks, the walls are painted a vivid saffron orange, setting the stage for dramatic textiles, including Clarence House’s tiger-print fabric, fittingly named Tibet, in a deep cinnabar colorway for the window panels. A mix of patterned bedding completes the room, proving that bold color and thoughtful layering can transform a guest space into a joyful, unforgettable retreat.

When it comes to design, I don’t swim in one pond. I do  whatever makes me happy.

Bold red library inside Stephanie Lynton’s Birmingham home
Colorful saffron guest bedroom in Birmingham designer home

Outdoor Living with Color and Comfort

The original stone courtyard has been “Stephanized” with plenty of bright color paired with comfort. Deep cushioned chairs and a large table invite guests to  linger over meals. The orange-and-blue combination speaks to the interiors, creating a sense of continuity inside and out. A stone console table serves as a buffet with a giant clam shell for chilling the wine. To make the space feel more like a room, Stephanie hung a piece of artwork over the console.

Outdoor entertaining courtyard at Stephanie Lynton’s Birmingham home

RESOURCES
Design: Stephanie Lynton Home, IG: @stephanielyntonhome Architect: Poole & Company Builder: Saunders Bradford Building Company Lighting: Mayer Lighting Hardware: Brandino Brass Countertops: Triton Stone Fixtures: Fixtures & Finishes Rugs and Mongolian pillows: Paige Albright Orientals Pantry Pavers: Peacock Pavers Tile /Backsplash: Fixtures & Finishes Verellen Sofas: Patina Paint: Fine Paints of Europe / Benjamin Moore Custom finishes: Paintworks Design Studio, LLC Floor on Side Porch: Alabama Brick Topiaries: Shoppe, Leaf N Petal Pantry Cabinets: Southern Expression Kitchen and Bath Cabinets: Lane Woodworking LLC Table: Circa Interiors and Antiques Security / Surround System: Sphere Home Technologies / Tamburello Protective

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Make-Ahead Made Easy

By
Leslie Byars Register
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Shake-and-Bake Parsley Potatoes

Do your prepping in the comfort of your own home, and place in bags ready to go. When you arrive at your destination, simply quarter the potatoes, toss, and bake. This simple, crowd-pleasing dish tastes delicious with steak and also pairs well with shrimp and chicken.

3 pounds red potatoes
1 (1-gallon) ziplock bag
1 (snack-size) ziplock bag
2 tablespoons garlic cloves, minced (about 4 to 5)
2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Wash red potatoes, pat dry, and put in 1-gallon ziplock bag. Refrigerate potatoes until ready to bake. In snack-size ziplock bag, combine minced garlic and next 3 ingredients. Remove potatoes from bag, cut into quarters, and return to the bag. Add seasonings and ¼ cup olive oil to bag. Seal and shake until thoroughly coated. Preheat baking sheet for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven, and pour potato mixture out of bag onto the hot baking sheet. Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown, stopping halfway through to flip potatoes. Serve immediately. Serves 8.

Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

It’s one less step when the marinade and sauce are the same. You can easily transport the flank steak in a ziplock  bag. If there is any leftover chimichurri sauce, pour it over grilled chicken or pasta for another meal.

6 garlic cloves
2 large shallots
1 jalapeño pepper
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
3 cups fresh cilantro
1 1/2 cups parsley
3/4 cup oregano
1 1/4 cups olive oil
1 (2-pound) flank steak
Garnish with cilantro and grilled mini sweet peppers

Roughly chop the garlic, shallots, and jalapeño, and place into the bowl of a food processor. Add vinegar and salt; pulse 3 to 4 times (max) until evenly chopped. With a knife, roughly chop next 3 ingredients, and add to food processor. Add oil, and pulse 2 times; stop and stir mixture to ensure even chopping. Pulse 2 to 3 more times until coarsely and evenly chopped. In a large ziplock bag, evenly coat flank steak with 1 cup of the chimichurri sauce. Refrigerate at least 8 hours or overnight. Remove flank steak from marinade, and pat dry. Grill at medium-high for 8 to 10 minutes on each side or until desired doneness. Allow to rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with remaining 2 cups chimichurri sauce. Serves 6.

Learn from Leslie: Grill the mini sweet peppers for 10 minutes while grilling the steak.

Wild Rice Chicken Salad

For this recipe, I like to poach the chicken in water with a dash of salt and a drizzle of olive oil instead of baking it. This method helps it stay moist and white. This recipe makes an easy supper or a quick lunch. I often use the dressing on a green salad too. It’s that good!

1 (6-ounce) box Uncle Ben’s Long Grain & Wild Rice
4 chicken breast halves, cooked and diced
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
Juice of 1 lemon
2 medium avocados
1 cup pecans, toasted

Dressing:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup seasoned rice wine vinegar
1/3 cup vegetable oil

Mix all salad ingredients, except avocados and pecans, in a large bowl. Set aside. Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar, and shake until combined. Toss salad mixture with dressing. Serve on a bed of leaf lettuce, and garnish with chopped avocado and toasted pecans. (The salad will keep several days once tossed.) Serves 5 – 6.

Make-Ahead Hot Artichoke Dip

The lemon juice brightens up the canned artichokes to give them a fresher taste. This dip can be made up to 48 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container. For a smaller crowd, bake half at a time, keeping the remainder in the refrigerator until needed.

1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, chopped
1 (4-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
8 ounces good-quality feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup light mayo
2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of half lemon
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish with basil (optional)
Assorted crackers

In a medium-size bowl combine first 7 ingredients. Refrigerate until ready to bake. (This can be done up to 48 hours in advance.) Place in a lightly greased 1½-quart baking dish. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until hot and bubbly. Garnish, if desired. Serve with crackers. Makes 4 cups.

Refreshing Lemonade Tea

I always have these ingredients on hand to whip this up the night or two before a trip. It’s a nice alternative to soft drinks. In the summer, I like to drink this with breakfast!

10 regular-size tea bags
8 cups boiling water
1 cup sugar
1 (12-ounce) can lemonade concentrate
Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Place tea bags in a 2-quart measuring cup or heat-proof bowl. Pour boiling water over tea bags, and allow to steep for 30 minutes. Remove tea bags, and pour tea into a 1-gallon container. Add sugar, and stir until dissolved. Add lemonade concentrate and water to fill container. Stir to combine. Chill and serve over ice with lemon wedges, if desired. Makes 1 gallon.

Packing List

When going to the lake or beach, especially if you are in a rental, don’t forget to pack these essentials:

1. Music source (Bluetooth portable device)
2. Scented candle
3. Paper products, tissues, soap, detergents
4. Condiments
5. Fresh flowers
6. Garbage bags,  ziplocks, plastic wrap
7. Cocktail provisions—napkins, wine,  alcohol, lemons, and limes
8. Puzzle and cards for a rainy day
9. Matches or a lighter
10. Your pillow

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Elegant Escape

By
Jean Allsopp Photography
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What’s more luxurious than a beautifully renovated master bath? Two of them—one for her and one for him. “Logan and Drew Mouron’s original master suite already had his and hers baths, ” says designer Mary Lauren McBride. “The existing footprint of Drew’s bath worked well, so we just gave the shower and vanity a facelift. But for Logan’s bath, we tore everything out and started from scratch.” The result is pure elegance.

  

ABOVE “Logan wanted a dramatic yet cozy pocket of space in her home, ” says Mary Lauren. “The wall covering in the powder room really drove this look. A large damask pattern paired with a deep charcoal background and gilded bronze fixtures packs a punch in tight quarters.”
 

Why We Love It

A BATH FOR HER With two spacious master baths, Logan and Drew have plenty of room to spread out. “They love their separate spaces, ” says Mary Lauren. “The layout functions very well for this couple’s busy lifestyle. They each have a retreat, complete with its own closet.”

STUNNING LIGHT FIXTURE The striking, oversized fixture adds the right amount of drama without detracting from the softness of the room. Its curved lines, aged patina, and intricate detail add feminine appeal to the space while casting a soft glow.

SOAKING TUB WITH A VIEW Logan truly takes a bath every single day in her soaking tub. With the addition of a picture window and beautiful view, the experience becomes even more luxurious.

DRESSING TABLE DETAILS Cabinets with insets and overlays create the look of custom furniture rather than built-ins. The vanity includes a spot for a small bench and space for makeup products.

Resources 

Design and layout: Mary Lauren McBride, Mary McBride Interiors [email protected] Sconces, fixtures, tile, tub, and sink: Fixtures & Finishes · 205.323.5616 Counters: Surface One · 205.621.1125 surface1.com Wallpapers: through Mary McBride Interiors Custom mirror: Arceneaux Gallery · 205.802.5800 arceneauxgallery.com Oushak rugs: Suite Dreams · 205.414.1922 shopsuitedreams.blogspot.com Light fixture: Tricia’s Treasures · 205.871.9779 triciastreasures.us Art: Gallery 1930 · 205.870.1930 artgallery1930.com Cabinets and marble splash: Mary McBride Interiors Cabinet hardware: Architectural Hardware Supply · 205.910.4893 Cabinet color: Natural Choice by Sherwin Williams sherwin-williams.com

Photography by Jean Allsopp

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Timeless and Tranquil

By
Jean Allsopp Photography
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When Lorrie and Glenn Robinson began building their new home, the master bathroom was of utmost importance. “We wanted a spacious retreat with timeless design, ” says Lorrie of her wish list for her ensuite bath. Working with builder Kyle Murphy of Murphy Home Builders, the couple started from the ground up in choosing materials and finishes. “Carrera marble and chrome were at the top of our list, ” says Lorrie. “We also wanted separate vanities, and I wanted a comfortable place to apply makeup.” The couple got everything they asked for and more, including a vanity with dual sinks centered by a recess Lorrie can use as a dressing table and a separate shower and soaking tub. An adjacent closet and a connected laundry room offer added convenience. “This truly is our haven, ” says Lorrie.

Powder rooms are the places to go bold. After all, these rooms are small which means it’s not costly to take chances and mistakes are easy to remedy (think one roll of wallpaper or a quart of paint!) Here, the homeowner’s chance to do something different was just right. She chose wallpaper for an accent wall and a blue, curvy vanity for a little something different. The result is a little bitty room with a whole lot of punch.

Why We Love It

TILE SET ON THE DIAGONAL Carrera marble is beautiful no matter how it is laid, but placing it on the diagonal in a staggered brick pattern gives it even more prominence.

ARCHITECTURAL INTEREST Large panels behind the tub add interest to the expanse of wall. They also eliminate the need for artwork.

NATURAL LIGHT A row of windows brings in plenty of light to the oversized space. Kyle strategically placed the windows high enough to allow for privacy.

COLOR CONTRAST Gray tile in the shower offers a pleasing contrast to the mostly white space. The color is also picked up in the rug, as well as in the subtle swirls of the marble.

Resources

Builder: Murphy Home Builders murphyhomebuilders.net Tile: Acme/Jenkins Brick & Tile, 205.988.3913 Plumbing fixtures: GLS Supply glssupply.com Lighting: Inline Lighting inlinelighting.com Wallpaper: through Davis Design, 205.991.2929

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Finding Balance

By
Jean Allsopp Photography
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Sometimes Mother Nature has a way of “forcing” a home-improvement project. Such was the case for this homeowner when his original master bath was flooded. “The water damage affected surrounding rooms as well, ” says designer Shea Bryars. “So we took advantage of the opportunity to shift some space.” By relocating the existing laundry room that backed up to the original bath, builder Joe Smaha was able to bring in additional square footage for the new bath. Shea then created a design full of sleek, contemporary details that works perfectly for this single homeowner but can easily transition into a shared bath for a couple. Says Shea, “We wanted the right balance that would bring in that dual appeal.”

Why we Love It

STAINED WOOD CABINETS Because this bath is for a bachelor,   Shea wanted to include some details that were more masculine. The wood cabinets also offer a nice change from the all-white palette used in many bath renovations.

FLOATING DUAL VANITIES In keeping with the more contemporary theme of the space, Shea chose floating vanities. The lack of legs maintains a clean aesthetic.

PATTERNED CEMENT TILE ON THE FLOOR The colorful pattern on the floor creates a pleasing balance to the otherwise sleek space. “It offers just the right amount of interest, ” says Shea.

MIX OF METALS Shea didn’t limit the room to one choice between silver and gold. “Sometimes people shy away from mixing the two finishes, but they can work so well together, ” she says. Here, gold-accented sconces complement chrome plumbing fixtures.

Resources

Designer: Shea Bryars Design sheabryarsdesign.com Builder: Joe Smaha/Smaha Building, LLC smahabuilding.com Light fixtures: Circa Lighting through Shea Bryars Design Cabinets: Parsons Cabinetry mattparsonscabinetry.com Tile: Cement Tile Shop cementtileshop.com Hardware: Brandino Brass brandinobrass.com Countertops: Cutstone Company, 205.624.3538

Photography by Jean Allsopp

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Standout Style

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
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ABOVE The oversized arched steel front door gives a hint of the unexpected and exceptional details inside.
 

While the Internet has opened up the formerly secretive world of design to anyone with a network connection, it has also spawned a sameness of sorts. Everyone seems to be pinning and posting similar looks so quickly that “good design” has become a bit predictable. So when you see a house that pokes a little hole in that—and makes you question the zeitgeist a bit—it’s like a blast of fresh air.

Laura Vogtle brings that blast, perhaps channeling decorating mavericks of the past, to help her clients make their new homes into something a bit extraordinary. Paint the dining room black, including the ceiling? Go for it! Put faux fur on the back of traditional dining chairs? Yes ma’am! Add an almost ceiling-height tufted banquette in the kitchen’s dining space? Most definitely! “I like a little unpredictability in design, ” says Laura. “But nothing so over the top that it looks random or distracts from the whole.” For this particular home, she certainly showcased her unique style.

ABOVE Unstained white oak floors flow throughout the home. “Originally, my client wanted a dark color, but when they put the floors in, the wood was so beautiful that we decided to keep it natural, ” says Laura. Calm colors in the living room set off the more dramatic features like the light fixtures, art, and antiqued mirror.
 

 

“Laura really encouraged us to take some chances, ” says the homeowner. “She has great vision, and I admire her talents so much. We’re so happy with the results that I have now become a serious homebody!”

Interior spaces are dynamic and generous with abundant seating areas and plenty of storage. The master retreat sits on the first floor and the girls’ suite is upstairs, offering the perfect amount of space for this family to spread out. The basement, a decidedly masculine affair, provides another hangout space. On the exterior, the house doesn’t fit any mold, but it’s beautifully proportioned and very well built. “Laura and I both can’t say enough about Trey Goldstein of Cotton Construction, ” says the homeowner. “He was a gem, and the process was easier than anyone thought it would be.” And, according to Trey, the feeling is mutual. “Laura really brought a different type of look to this special house, ” he says. “Sometimes I feel designers tend to do the same things, but she is really out there by herself.”

On the flip side of all that space and style is a serious dedication to comfort, as well as close attention to how the family lives. A television room sporting smart swivel chairs opens up to the pool area for ease in entertaining. There’s a wonderful office strategically placed to allow views clear through from the front to the back of the house. The kitchen offers plenty of space for large meals with barstools, a table, and the aforementioned banquette. Attic space was finished out to include a chic “bunkhouse” with five single beds for sleepovers.

Even with all of this unique style, the real showpieces throughout every room are the perfectly proportioned and amazing light fixtures that look more like art. That should come as no surprise to those familiar with Laura’s resume—art galleries, Gallery 1930, Scene, and Design Supply at Pepper Place, her most recent undertaking. She truly has that much-lauded “eye” that can’t be picked up at Parsons or SCAD. “Laura is very intuitive about what works in a room, especially when it comes to scale, ” says the homeowner. As Laura explains, “I do believe in taking some risks here and there.” Spoken like a true decorating maverick. After all, no risks, no rewards.

ABOVE Swivel chairs in the den work for television or conversation. The French doors along the back open up to the pool area. 
 

  

ABOVE LEFT The wood-paneled walls lend a casual note to the kitchen dining area while the faux fur-backed chairs and eye-catching chandelier up the sophistication factor.

ABOVE RIGHT “My husband wanted the banquette to look like something in a restaurant, and I think it does. Laura realized it beautifully. It’s better that anything I could imagine, ” says the homeowner. Laura adds, “The custom execution by Grant Trick is outstanding.”
 

ABOVE “At first, we were a little hesitant about the black paint. The painter was especially alarmed, ” laughs the homeowner. “But it made the room so comfortable that we always want to linger after a meal—we stay in there for hours.”
 

  

Make a Statement

  • Paint a room a deep color and extend that color to the ceiling for a moody or romantic look—works great in dining rooms, powder baths, and libraries.
  • Think outside the standard go-to resources for light fixtures and choose ones that will bring a layer of excitement to a room—almost like a great piece of jewelry.
  • Vary the finishes in a room—include wood with patina to temper slicker surfaces, and layer in throws and pillows for softness. Mix antiques with contemporary pieces.
  • Be selective about what decorative accents to include—choose things that are authentic and personal, and let those pieces stand out. A little can go a long way.
  • Art can transform a room. Buy what you love, but consider the scale. You may need to have something commissioned to work in a particular space. Seek out a gallery or specialist for assistance.

ABOVE AND BELOW The spacious master bedroom needed a sizable light fixture, and Laura found the perfect one in her hunt for unique accents for the home. Simple sheers line the room, cocooning and softening the space.
 

ABOVE The glass-paneled shower wall in the master bath relates back to the door at the front entrance, giving a design point of reference in the home.
 

ABOVE AND BELOW “I love that Laura really questioned my daughters about how they wanted their bedrooms to look. One loved the golds, and other wanted a silvery look, ” says the homeowner. Each daughter has her own private bath and den.
 

ABOVE A bunk room accommodates sleepovers.
 

Resources

Interior designer: Laura Vogtle, Design Supply • 205.910.5369  [email protected] Builder: Trey Goldstein, Cotton Construction Inc. • 205.413.1962 cottonconstructioninc.com Landscape design: Curb Appeal • 205.942.5200 curbappealonline.com Banquette in kitchen: Grant Trick of Design Industry • 205.224.5599 granttrick.com Vanity in powder bath: Brooks Barrow through Design Supply at Pepper Place select art available through Gallery 1930 • 205.870.1930 artgallery1930.com Foyer: ceiling light fixture: Ochre ochre.net Living room chandelier: Julie Neill through Design Supply Dining room: chandeliers: through Design Supply table: Taracea through Design Supply Family room: Verellen chairs: Patina • 205.802.9805 chandelier: Julian Chichester through Design Supply Master bedroom: bed: Oly Studio through Design Supply Chandelier: Arete Collection Aretecollection.com Master bathroom chandelier: through Design Supply Girl’s Gold Bedroom: bed: Made Goods through Design Supply Girl’s silver bedroom chandelier: through Design Supply.

Text by alice welsh doyle // Photography by jean allsopp

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