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Shop Local: Homewood Shopping

By
Christiana Roussel
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This Audrey Hepburn-inspired mural on the side of Roman Brantley Antiques on Central Avenue sums up the general feeling of anyone who lives, works, or plays in Homewood.

Homewood Stores

Stock & Trade

Located on Highway 31, Stock & Trade has a massive footprint that might at first seem a bit overwhelming—that is, of course, until one of the on-staff designers greets you to determine your specific needs. From hostess gifts to whole-home re-do’s, there is almost nothing Stock & Trade can’t update and make better. 205.783.1350 • stockandtrade.com

Three Sheets

Long known as THE place to shop for bedding and all things boudoir, Three Sheets has been outfitting Birmingham bedrooms for decades. From ordering custom crib sheets to perfecting your bed’s ‘hotel-stack’ of pillows, owner Babbie Styslinger and her staff have you covered. 205.871.2337 • threesheetslinen Instagram

At Home Furnishings

With offerings that include napkin rings, home scents, custom sofas, bookshelf art, sassy reading glasses, and vegan leather clutches, At Home has a little something for everyone. The staff balances just the right amount of assistance with letting you browse and touch, so make sure you set aside extra time to shop. You are guaranteed to leave with a new find you’ll want to share with your friends. 205.879.3510 • shopathomefurnishings.com

Alabama Goods

Every state in our blessed union is teeming with pride, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a store where that love is as tastefully curated in local wares as at Alabama Goods. You’ll find Earthborn Pottery out of Leeds and Merry Cheese Crisps from right here in Birmingham, as well as a variety of Alabama-shaped gifts emblazoned with that ubiquitous “It’s Nice to Have You in Birmingham” image. Go ahead and pick two of whatever you buy; you know you want one for yourself! 205.803.3900 • alabamagoods.com

18th Street Orientals

With their new location at 1829 29th Avenue South, owners Paige and Sam Drummond have been softening the floors of Homewood residents—and beyond—for a very long time. The staff at 18th Street Orientals understands that a new rug is a real investment, much like a coveted piece of art. That is why patience is only part of the process in rug-buying at this showroom; knowledge and customer service are the starting points with every customer. 205.870.3838 • 18thstreetorientals.com

Hiltz-Lauber

Smaller than some of the other design shops in town, Hiltz-Lauber makes up for its size with its caliber of offerings, along with its designation as a Visual Comfort Gallery.  The furnishings here yearn to be placed in an elegant living room.  And while the Schumacher carpets and a Baker writing desk may start off in your home, they are guaranteed to be enjoyed by your children and grandchildren. 205.879.0039 • hiltzlauber.com

Argent, known for its vast collection of fine silver, is also a homes store offering a wide selection of new pieces and antiques.

Argent

More than just the go-to place for silver, Argent also offers furniture, jewelry, art, lighting, and more. You may come in looking for an heirloom cake knife but leave with something for your living room. 205.871.4221

Brandino Brass

When your Pinterest boards are teeming with coveted hardware selections, make Brandino Brass your first stop in selecting something timeless and perfect. From the elegant P.E. Guerin cabinet pulls to casually classic Rocky Mountain Hardware door handles—not to mention outdoor lighting and mailboxes—there is no shortage of choices available at this family-owned store. 205.978.8900 • brandinobrass.com

Special Interests Stores in Homewood, AL

Caliber

This upscale sporting destination has become THE place to get your adventure on. With European brands like Dubarry, Barbour, and Seaward & Stearn, as well as technical lines like Orvis, Beretta, Duck Camp, and Russell, Caliber offers everything the outdoorsman needs. Whether you are outfitting for a quail hunt in Argentina or a bonefishing adventure on Lanai this is your place. With a knowledgeable staff and a fancy complimentary coffee bar, the store encourages you to browse at your leisure. 205.917.5800 • Caliber Instagram

Penzey’s Spices

As any cooks worth their salt can attest, Penzey’s Spices is way more than a spice vendor. It’s a culinary idea factory with inspiration on practically every shelf. There are straightforward offerings (Tellicherry peppercorns and sel gris), baking needs (Dutch-processed cocoa and Tahitian vanilla beans), and house blends that will let your imagination run wild with new menu ideas. We’re partial to the Sunny Paris blend which elevates everything from BLTs to salad dressings and grilled fish. 205.871.7277 • penzeys.com

Biscuit Leather Company

Leathergoods maven Becky Stayner is just off the beaten path in Homewood at 2764 BM Montgomery Street, between Caliber and the Creative Montessori School. The space operates as her retail location (her studio is just next door), where she sells custom purses, folios, napkin rings, and other home goods. Becky shares the sun-drenched space with artist Paul Ware and one-of-a-kind treasures created by students at Studio by the Tracks. 205.390.2000

Homewood Toy & Hobby

Long known as THE place to stop before hitting the Saturday morning birthday party circuit, Homewood Toy & Hobby has been making people happy since 1950. From the latest craze (remember Silly Bandz?) to timeless hobbies like Legos and model trains, you can always find something fun, creative, and engaging here.  205.879.3986 • homewoodtoy-hobby.com

Restaurants in Homewood

Momma Goldberg’s Deli

You no longer have to make the road trip down Highway 280 to enjoy those Auburn specialty salads and sandwiches. That Gobbler or Momma’s Love can now be found in downtown Homewood in the first Momma Goldberg’s franchise outside of Auburn. 
205.834.8871 • mommagoldbergsdeli.com

Ashley Mac’s

Located just behind City Hall where a vast expanse of windows provides generous natural light to one of the newest Ashley Mac’s restaurants, this location has become an immediate favorite with Homewood residents. You’ll tell yourself you’re stopping in for the broccoli slaw or chopped BLT salad, but we all know it’s the strawberry cake that you really crave. 205.582.0062 • ashleymacs.com

Johnny’s Homewood

Nobody does “Greek-and-three” like Johnny’s Tim Hontzas. And nobody sweats the details like Tim either. The tzatziki that accompanies his keftedes (Greek meatballs) is made with yogurt he makes in-house. If you don’t order that and the fried green tomatoes, then order the special of the day. Wait, maybe you should try the baked Greek chicken and parmesan grit cake. Or go for the chicken pot pie and turnip greens. 205.802.2711 • johnnyshomewood.com

Homewood Gourmet

It’s hard to improve upon a beloved local staple, but Laura and Chris Zapalowski have done just that. Displaced after Hurricane Katrina, the couple found their footing in the Magic City and soon after bought the restaurant from chef Franklin Biggs. They wisely kept Biggs’ beloved Baby Blue Spinach Salad on the menu but added Louisiana staples like gumbo and po’ boys on those famous Leidenheimer rolls. Their Dinner in a Dash options mean you can knock out dinner duty while enjoying your lunch.  205.871.1620 • homewoodgourmet.com

Homewood by the Numbers

With a population of 25,476, Homewood is one of those communities where people put down roots and never want to leave their zip code. The small-town atmosphere seems to be the biggest draw. With plenty of green space, a public pool, senior centers, and athletic facilities, the city keeps neighbors active and involved. Plus, the three elementary schools, junior high, and high school consistently rank high in academic excellence. Strong municipal services, a responsive city government, and plenty of anticipated annual activities make this Over the Mountain community truly beloved.

Ray & Poynor realtor Hillary Weiss notes that plenty of buyers are looking beyond traditionally popular neighborhoods like Hollywood and Edgewood. She explains that the addition of Patriot Park in West Homewood is attracting a lot of young families. “This area is becoming a hot spot with new restaurants like Pizzeria GM,” Hillary says. “It also has a great walkable area. Homewood really is booming!” 

If you are looking to buy, there is no time like the present to purchase in Homewood. “The average list price per square foot in the area is $245,” Hillary says. “A 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is selling on average for $400,000. A few years ago it was closer to $329,000.”

Everything in Alabama Goods is, well, from Alabama. Don’t miss out on showing your state pride by taking a photo in front of this wall-size mural and sharing it on FB and Instagram. What better way to celebrate the state’s 200th birthday?

Why I Love Homewood

“I moved to Birmingham 25 years ago and can honestly say that the characteristics that first attracted me to Homewood are still in place: historic charm, down-to-earth residents, and a real sense of community.” – Michael Murray, CCIM, Associate Broker, Shannon Waltchack

“I love that I have neighbors that share farm eggs and pimiento cheese, and that I always have taste testers for my weekend cooking and baking projects.” – Brooke Bell, Vice President of Culinary & Custom Content, Hoffman Media

“I have lived in Homewood for more than 25 years, and my husband (who grew up in Homewood) and I have raised our four children here. I am from Europe, and I love Homewood because it provides me with a feeling of the “Old World” with its small houses nestled in little yards along the gentle hills. I like that my children can take their bikes from our house to visit me at the clinic and then stop for some ice cream before heading back. Homewood makes you feel welcome, and the wonderful little restaurants and bakeries invite you to slow down and enjoy.” – Ingrid Straeter Giattina, Owner, Animal Rehabilitation & Cardiology

“My great grandfather settled in Homewood before it was incorporated. It’s where our store is still located today. Even then, it was the type of community that was extremely diverse. That’s what I like most about it.” – Ken Shaia, owner, Shaia’s

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A Nod to Nature: Explore This Stunning Smith Lake Home

By
Robert Martin
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Front elevation of Smith Lake Home by Barrett Architechture. Photography by Art Meripol

A picturesque setting deserves an equally inspiring place to unwind and admire the scenery. Such were the goals of Barrett Architecture Studio architect and firm principal Adam Kent and interior designer Lauren Hulsey when a Smith Lake property owner approached them to design a new lake house. Presented with a site that offered lake views on three sides, Adam and Lauren capitalized upon every vista. “We took full advantage of the terrain by configuring the floor plan in parts, then moved each segment around for just the right placement,” says Adam of the resulting bends in the structure that capture 180 degrees of uninterrupted lakefront and beauty.

The front porch, complete with black locust wood decking, includes a small footbridge connected to a stone-paving path that leads to a detached, three-car garage and upper guest suite beyond.

Continuing this seamless relationship with the property, Lauren followed suit by layering the interiors with an equally well-chosen array of materials. “The homeowners wanted a minimalistic feel, both inside and out,” she says. “We drew from a natural palette, highlighting inherent textures.” The design team also specified other finishes that added to the varied patina, like wire-brushed and stained white oak for the floors and ceilings. To create a standout fireplace in the living area, they poured concrete into a wooden frame to get the imprint of the wood grain.

Open concept kitchen and dining space with rustic wooden beams and floors

“While the clients purchased all of the furniture, we kept a close eye on maintaining an appropriate scale and arrangement.”

—Lauren Hulsey, Interior Designer, Barrett Architecture Studio

A 40-foot-long window comprised of minimal mullions offers spectacular views. At the far end of the living space, the fireplace’s monolithic form not only accentuates the room but also cleverly conceals the stairwell beyond.

In keeping with the relaxed vibe, the home also boasts a streamlined kitchen. Anchored by a large island that caters to family gatherings and entertaining, this open cooking area echoes the same nod to nature that’s found throughout the house. “We selected warm tones for the cabinets and open shelving, which lend a welcoming contrast to the stainless-steel appliances,” Lauren says. The kitchen’s smooth plaster hood and glazed Zellige- inspired tile interject a fresh contrast to the rugged fireplace. A large pantry provides room for a second refrigerator, as well as an ice maker to fill coolers for a day spent on the water.

Just around the corner from the kitchen, a spacious screened porch serves as the official go-to spot on pleasant days. As Adam notes, “This space offers ample opportunities for both relaxing and entertaining and fosters a vital connection to the outdoors.”

Just around the corner from the kitchen, a spacious screened porch serves as the official hangout space on pretty days. Resting 10 feet above the ground, the porch resembles a treehouse in the way it hovers within the canopy of trees.

The lake side of the house shows the prominent position of the screened porch and the smart orientation of the floor plan designed to capture views from every room.

The primary bedroom is outfitted with stained-wood beams and a tongue- and-groove ceiling. For added comfort, a custom-built window seat overlooks the lake.

Landscape elements and plantings mesh well with the lush environs. Landscape architect David Lorberbaum weaved a series of meandering paths and rock retaining walls into the existing terrain. “Like us, his understanding of the client’s needs, along with their invaluable collaboration, led to a truly successful outcome,” says Adam.

The kids enjoy their own den downstairs.
Kids bunk room suited for sleepovers. Custom-built by contractor Nathan Allred, each bunk features a hidden nook that doubles as a nightstand, complete with a sconce and outlet.

Explore other beautiful Smith Lake Homes:

Blending Nature and Design: A Stunning Smith Lake Kitchen Makeover
A Serene Retreat on Smith Lake

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On the Market: A Stunning Custom Home in Edgewood

By
BHG Partners
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1523 Roseland Drive, Homewood, AL 35209

$1,990,000 | 5 beds 4 full 1 half baths | 4,265 square feet | 56 x 180 lot
VIEW FLOOR PLANS AND TAKE 3D TOUR

Charm and elegance in Edgewood! Authentic materials, stunning windows, living metal finishes and a thoughtful floor plan drawn by one of Birmingham’s renowned classical architects, this home is truly one of a kind. The cedar shake roof with elegantly tucked dormers is reminiscent of a cottage from across the pond.

A spacious upstairs on one of Homewood’s favorite streets brings space without losing Edgewood’s coveted charm. Loaded with custom details, a bespoke trim package, and cabinet joinery that brings a sleek, but timeless finish.

Luxurious, chef-approved appliances with custom marble countertops, and a gracious island perfect for easy entertaining or daily meal prep. This home is for the buyer looking for custom everything without hiring the design team that you would need to execute. It has all been done for you!

The floor to ceiling windows throughout the house, the two limestone, wood burning fireplaces (that can be gas logs), the all brass hardware on every drawer and door, the cedar roof, the trim molding throughout the house, the bath fixtures, the bluestone patios, all of these perfect details add up to make a beautiful home.

For more information on this property, contact Brent Griffis, brentgriffis.com | 205-616-6008 | bg@brentgriffis.com

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How to Create a Meaningful Art Collection

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
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Blue home library with colorful wall art collection
Melissa’s colorful art collection pairs perfectly with the den’s bold walls painted Benjamin Moore Bella Blue | Photo by Jean Allsopp

Interior Designer Melissa Salem’s Tips for Curating an Art Collection

1Art does not have to be expensive, but it should be a reflection of you and your passions.

2Do not buy art just online; go to art shows and galleries because the texture, flesh, and life of the piece can only be appreciated in person. We have very talented artists right here in Alabama.

3 That said, I do encourage people to learn what they love by looking online; it’s helpful to take screenshots of things that you are attracted to and then go back through those photos to determine if it’s a palette, a subject matter, or a meaning behind a piece that draws you to it.

4 Art is called a collection for a reason—it’s a journey; let it tell your story, especially when doing a gallery wall. Choose a variety of scales and mix mediums and subjects. Make sure they don’t compete, but complement each other.

5 Save up for special pieces that might be a bit out of your budget. I write something on the back—a quote or a reason why I loved it. Art is a gift to share with your children and others, and the pieces are like leaving breadcrumbs to those who come after.

6 Art doesn’t have to be expensive, but the meaning of the art—whether it evokes a memory or life lesson, for example, is what is what truly makes it valuable.

Click here to tour Melissa Salem’s 1925 Hollywood Mediterranean

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Layers of Intrigue: A Hollywood Neighborhood Renovation

By
Alice Welsh Doyle
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Mediterranean style home exterior
The Salems were drawn to the upstairs triple windows and the Mediterranean stucco façade with front and side porches. Photography by Jean Allsopp

No matter how many places you roam, there is always a strong pull to your roots, and that may include the neighborhood where you started a meaningful chapter in your life.

Interior designer Melissa Salem and her husband, Richie, bought their first house on Broadway and then moved a couple of doors down to Grove Place, both in Homewood. Detours took the couple to Vestavia Hills and Highway 119 near Leeds where they raised their children. However, when the Salems received a tempting offer to buy their home, they decided to move back to their first love—Homewood. “I have always been attracted to the Hollywood neighborhood, but houses there are hard to come by,” says Melissa. Unbeknownst to Melissa, her husband knocked on the door of a Bonita Drive house that was not on the market. “I had always loved this particular house with its upstairs triple windows, carriage house, and porches,” says Melissa. “The owners wouldn’t sell at first, but they finally decided they didn’t have the time it would take to bring it back to life.”

Melissa Salem, Birmingham Interior Designer

“My goal is to create spaces where all walks of life feel welcomed, loved, and honored—otherwise it’s just brick and mortar and stuff.”
—Melissa Salem, homeowner and designer

The home was rife with challenges that had to be tackled before any of the beauty could unfold. The family lived upstairs for two years while the first floor was modernized. Despite trials presenting themselves almost daily, such as the collapse of the carriage house, the Salems kept their eyes on the outcome that was executed in phases.

Ladies' lounge - upstairs bedroom in Homewood house
Melissa and her daughter renamed this upstairs bedroom the ladies’ lounge. “It’s a respite for us to watch rom-coms and a space for our kids to catch up with old friends when they are in town.”

 

Antique chairs in the Homewood, AL dining room
The house was on the dark side, so the Salems included floor-to-ceiling sliding doors in several spaces. Melissa fell in love with these chairs because they had a rich history. “I feel we need to gather around the table more often. Opening my home is like a calling for me.”

When it came to the décor, Melissa dialed into her personal preferences. “When I work with clients, I’m a little more constrained than I am with my own homes, although I always encourage them to step outside of their comfort zone,” she says. “If I come across something I love, I generally just go for it knowing that there is a reason it speaks to me. Later, I always find a home for it.”

Some of those things she loves include ethnic-inspired pieces such as the pair of Moroccan inlaid tables on the side porch, along with rustic natural elements, including the many reclaimed wood beams added throughout. She’s also drawn to rattan and to captivating light fixtures both vintage and new, and she’s a self-confessed “color” girl who looks for thoughtful ways to use hues. “I think color adds interest, and it can be done in smaller doses,” she says. “I love to look for unappreciated spots to add color such as stair risers, window trims, or the ceiling.”

narrow Entry Room table
The base to this narrow entry table was originally a fireplace screen Melissa purchased for the living room. She soon realized that its ornateness took away from the original fireplace, so she found an ideal home for it.
Reworked kitchen in Homewood, AL house
The totally reworked kitchen was accomplished in phases. In the second phase, the Salems collaborated with kitchen specialist Katrina Porter to include a blend of finishes and textures with both marble and concrete countertops, bracketed reclaimed wood beams, concrete floors, and a steel vent hood.

“I love antiques, and I love the unexpected finds. You turn the corner and there’s something surprising and you think ‘wow!’”

—Melissa Salem

Melissa avoids trends and has a strong penchant for décor that’s been purchased over time. “I always advise my young clients to slow down. You don’t have to buy a bunch of stuff to completely outfit a room all at once,” she says. “Be patient and do it right the first time; it will be worthwhile. Plus the collecting process is exciting!” She’s also a fan of the unexpected but eschews the word eclectic as overused. However, in this case, it aptly describes her style, especially her art collection, which is a main character throughout the interiors. The designer as a very heartfelt approach to choosing art. For example, after her mother died, Melissa took all her much-loved lipsticks and commissioned an original artwork by Jill McCool. Then she had prints made for her sisters and female family members and actually taped one of the lipstick tubes to the back of each.

Melissa believes that art should express your family’s personality and tell a story. “People can be very intimidated when it comes to art, so I advise them to get out their children’s creations and their beloved family photos to start with,” she says. Her 1925 Hollywood Mediterranean proved an ideal canvas to put her advice into practice, creating spaces sure to resonate for generations to come.

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6 Easy Tips for Collecting Antiques

By
BHG Staff
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Bedroom with antique sofa, bed and rug
Photo by Jean Allsopp

Most designers agree that antique and vintage pieces add character to any interior. Whether you are seeking a piece for value or purely for style, there are a few things to know before beginning the hunt.

  1. Know Your Age. A true antique is an item over 100 years old, while those 20-99 years old are classified as vintage.
  2. Consider rarity. Limited production runs, unique designs, or discontinued items are highly sought after by buyers and dealers.
  3. Check the Condition. Pieces in pristine or original condition without repairs or alterations are deemed more valuable. Look for signs of replaced hardware, refinishing, wood fillers, and chips.
  4. Provenance is Key. The history of an item adds value and offers a story to tell—especially if it has ties to notable figures or events. Even family heirlooms offer tales. The more you know about its style, origin, and previous owners makes it more interesting. Be sure to preserve receipts and any documentation.
  5. Craftsmanship is Critical. A well-made, visually appealing item that shows the true hand of a craftsperson is always admired. Think seamless sliding drawers, dovetail details, and defining hardware.
  6. What to Look For. Trends come and go, and that includes antiques. Brown furniture is making a comeback as is bleached wood, pieces with original patina, and statement making accessories. Peruse our local shops, and ask questions. The owners and dealers in Birmingham offer a wealth of information. It’s their passion, after all.

View details of this bedroom featured in “Antique Remix“

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Twin Construction Blends Modern Design with Historic Charm in Edgewood

By
Paige Townley
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Foyer in Edgewood home by Twin Construction
A wooden console table and brass ceiling fixture contrasts the vibrant color on display in the foyer | Photography by Jean Allsopp

Twin Construction helped this Homewood family turn their desire for more space into a stunning new home, keeping their neighborhood’s character intact.

Homewood is well-known for its architectural character and authenticity, and the work of Twin Construction over the past two decades has certainly aided the community’s vision for honoring the past while propelling it forward. So when this family of four realized their charming yet pint-sized bungalow didn’t quite measure up due to its lack of square footage, it was no surprise that they turned to a frontrunner in the community’s transformation.

Edgewood Home Exterior by Twin Construction
The slope of the lot presented the biggest challenge for the Twin Construction team. “Much thought went into nesting the house in the perfect spot to avoid a ‘stairway to heaven’ effect from the street and an underground bunker in the back,” says plan designer Crystal Tucker. Stuart Nash, another Twin plan designer, used 3D imaging to help get the layout right. Jeremy and Bethany Miller of Endless Summer graded the lot to ensure it felt approachable from the street. This also maximized the usable yard and maintained a natural feel with no harsh retaining wall.

The goal was to build an entirely new abode on their existing lot that would provide the much-needed space without looking like a new build, honoring the historical integrity of their street was at the top of the list for the family.

To accomplish the task, Twin put together a team dedicated to seamlessly blending modern functionality and optimum space with the neighborhood’s architectural heritage. The team began by consulting the family to capture their vision. “They wanted something that fit into the landscape but didn’t look exactly like everything else around them,” says Lydia Smith, an interior designer at Twin.

Crystal Tucker, another designer with Twin, checked off the modern requests with a dark exterior, clean lines, and lots of windows to let in the natural light. To balance out the modern vibes and give a nod to the home’s Edgewood roots, she wove in natural elements at every opportunity, including cedar board-and-batten, cedar brackets, and tumbled natural stone. “The stone offers a nice yin to the dark house’s yang,” says Crystal.

Calacatta Carrara honed marbled countertops and island from Surface One.
The backsplash matches the Calacatta Carrara-honed marble countertops and island from Surface One. To balance the vintage feel of the custom-designed zinc-and-brass hood, interior designer Lydia Smith chose brass sconces from Mayer Lighting, adding a modern touch that fits perfectly with the curves of the custom backsplash.

Edgewood Home Kitchen details
The kitchen’s neutral base is enlivened by an Oushak runner from Hazel House Collective and vibrant artwork. Interior designer Lydia Smith complemented these colorful touches with brass accessories. “Those small but vibrant additions, combined with brass accents, keep the room’s neutral palette from feeling boring,” she says.

“When mixing patterns, consider their size. Pair geometrics with a design that is more freeform, or add something more whimsical near an animal print. Color coordination is crucial but so is size and scale.” – Lydia Smith, interior designer, Twin Interiors

After going moody outside, Lydia worked with the clients on a fun and funky feel inside. “They wanted color and an eclectic vibe, which fit their personalities perfectly,” she says.

Edgewood Home Living Room with dark green velvet sofas
A pair of dark green velvet sofas, a substantial coffee table, oversized floor lamps, and tall wingback chairs maintain the correct proportions in the living room.

The designer set the tone in the entry with a colorful Native American painting by Birmingham-based artist Mandy Maples. She accented the artwork with an equally vibrant runner from Hazel House. Lydia then carried the collected look straight through to the hallway, where a gallery of mix-and-match items graces the wall. In the main living area, she combined both pattern and color with throw pillows on the sofa, an antelope print on the side chairs, and a vivid kitchen runner.

Canopy Bed
A canopy bed nods to traditional style while the iron structure and linen headboard underscore the home’s modern aesthetic.

Taking cues from the exterior, Lydia balanced the eye-catching color and many modern moments with more traditional and natural elements. Unlacquered brass hardware, marble countertops, wood furniture in warm tones, and a combination of stone and limestone on the fireplace add to the lived-in look. As Lydia explains, “We used materials that help the home blend in with the charm of Homewood while also incorporating all the amenities the family needs.”

Resources:

Construction Firm: Twin Construction; Lot Grading: Jeremy and Bethany Miller, Endless Summer; Countertops and Island: Surface One; Runner: Hazel House Collective; Foyer Painting: Mandy Maples

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Table for Two: How to Make a Special Dinner for Two

By
Leslie Byars Register
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Menu card and place setting for two

Some of the finest meals I’ve ever had have been in a home. You don’t always have to go out for special events—you can create something memorable in your own place. “Reserve” your dining room or a special nook in your house. Take time to do a handwritten menu, use place cards (just because), and create a pretty centerpiece to add to the celebration. I love serving a meal at home because you can linger around the table—and seconds and refills are close by!

I always forget how quick and easy cooking for two can be. Fewer ingredients require less time and energy, allowing more time to create a special setting for your “at home” reservation. Whether it’s a birthday or anniversary, or if you are a new empty nester, everything tastes better in a pretty atmosphere. Keep the recipes simple but delicious, and take time to add all the extra touches.

Eggplant Fries and Cocktail Sauce Recipe 

Eggplant Fries and Cocktail Sauce

Recipe: A Healthy and Delicious Appetizer

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Recipe: The Perfect Way to Start a Fantastic Meal at Home

Bolognese with Rigatoni

Recipe: Delicious Small Batch Bolognese with Rigatoni: A Perfect Comfort Meal

Apple-and-Blackberry Crumble Recipe

Apple-and-Blueberry Crumble

Recipe: Classic Apple and Blackberry Crumble Recipe for a Cozy Dessert

 

View more recipes from Leslie Byers Register

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Apple-and-Blackberry Crumble Recipe

By
Leslie Byars Register
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Apple and Blueberry Crumble Recipe

Serves 2

Recipe Ingredients: 

  • 1.5 cups peeled and sliced Honeycrisp apples
  • 1⁄8 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3-ounces fresh blackberries
  • 3⁄8 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1⁄8 cup granulated sugar
  • Vanilla ice cream

Recipe Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Combine apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, and blackberries in a bowl. Grease 4 (12-ounce) ramekins. Divide berry mixture evenly into 4 ramekins; set aside.

Sift flour into a small mixing bowl, and cut butter in with a pastry blender, until it resembles a coarse meal. Add the granulated sugar to the flour mixture, and stir until combined.

Sprinkle the flour mixture over the berries in each ramekin. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream.

Learn from Leslie:
Broil crumble for a minute or two for more brownness if desired.

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Small-Batch Bolognese with Rigatoni Recipe

By
Leslie Byars Register
-

Bolognese with Rigatoni

Serves 2 to 3

Recipe Ingredients: 

  • 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrots, finely chopped
  • 1 celery ribs, finely chopped
  • 1 1/2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1⁄4 pound ground chuck
  • 1⁄4 pound ground pork
  • 1 ounce pancetta or 2 slices bacon
  • 1/2 (3-ounce) can tomato paste
  • 1⁄4 cup white wine
  • 1⁄4 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces rigatoni or another type
  • pasta, cooked according to package directions
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh thyme sprig or basil for garnish

Recipe Directions:

Melt butter with olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan or small Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Stir in all three meats; cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until beef and pork crumble and are no longer pink.

Stir in tomato paste, wine, milk, and thyme; add salt and pepper to taste. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, 1 to 1 1⁄2 hours. Toss with hot cooked pasta. Sprinkle with cheese, and garnish with chopped basil or fresh thyme.

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