Birmingham Home & Garden - July/August 2022 by Birmingham Home & Garden

BeautifulKitchensMeettheWinners + homes designed for family living DINING FavoriteBirmingham’sOUTRestaurantsp.90 Local Goods from FoodiesSmall-Batch

1919 Oxmoor Road #313, Homewood AL, 35209 Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration 205-999-8424 Carbertservices.com License #: AL# 20103

Carbert Services LLC is a small owner operated service company with a primary focus on heating and cooling. What does that mean? It means your call for service isn’t answered by a receptionist that transfers your information to a dispatcher who sends a service technician to your home or property. Here at Carbert the receptionist, dispatcher and technician are all the same: e Owner. Why is that a benefit to you? e overhead here is low and as a result, you’re able to get a low competitive price on any work Carbert performs. We repair, maintain and replace comfort heating and cooling equipment. Residential systems are our single biggest customer base. However, if you have a need for light commercial work, we’re able to accommodate that as well. Residential customers may also find it beneficial to know that we o er a line of Handyman services so please feel free to reach out about those projects around the house, whether large or small, that you may not feel comfortable tackling. When you’re unsure who to call about that list of to-dos that never seem to get done, call us. We service and repair a variety of makes and models. ere is no overtime charge for a er hours repairs and there is no charge when you call for a second opinion. System maintenance goes a long way in the life of your equipment. Ask about our residential maintenance discounts. We also o er commercial maintenance contracts.

Art and furniture by Design Supply Lumber Reimagined. feat antique white oak www.evolutiamade.com | 855-277-5495

Your Style. Your Budget. Our Expertise. Yves

ONE OF THE FINEST LUXURY FURNITURE BRANDS IN THE WORLD Theodore Alexander is renowned as a unique brand embodying quality and originality in design. Their modular sectional sofa can accommodate any room. A pair of Fisher Round Cocktail Tables with Circular Bianco Carrara Marble Top and stainless steel base ﬁnished in brushed brass are modern and elegant. Don’t overlook the touch of comfort leant by these two Beau Ottomans on the right or the Avenue Montaigne: Yves Chair to the left. And the Lark Decorative Chest with walnut parquetry ﬂuted doors is nothing short of stunning. Our expert designers are always available in-house to help you bring your vision to life. Chair

2200 2ND AVE S | BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 205.322.1687 | BIRMINGHAMWHOLESALE.COMBeau Ottomans

ANNOUNCES COLOR FEATURE FOR 2022

Olive Branch

On-screen and printer color representations may vary from actual paint colors

1450 Montgomery Highway, Birmingham, Alabama, AL 35216 Hours: M-F 7am-6pm, Sat 8am-12pm

Rainbow Paint & Decorating specializes in all your indoor decoration needs. Looking for paint, window treatments, wallpaper, or flooring? We can help! Contact us to schedule an in-person appointment or get answers to your design questions. Rainbow Paint & Decorating carries top-quality products from Hunter Douglas. We are located in Birmingham, Alabama, and are proud to serve the Greater Birmingham area, including Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, Homewood, & Hoover, AL. Call us today to setup a consultation 205-822-3548 1450 Montgomery Hwy Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 (205) rainbow-paint.com822-3548

RepresentsHeart,Home,andHumanNature

Humans need connection: with others, nature, our homes, and ourselves. The 2022 C2 Paint Feature Color brings the powerful combination of “nurture” and “nature” into the sacred spaces where we seek refuge and recharge our spirits —our homes. Olive Branch, C2-938, is an organic, iconic, and soulful color that illustrates the dichotomy between strength and softness. There is an intrinsic beauty in the olive branch because it bears such a profound, symbolic meaning. It represents peace, forgiveness, and humanity in its purest form, dating back to Greek mythology. The organic roots of Olive Branch provide an anchored sense of purpose. The complexity of its color is reliable, quietly strong, and dependable, while its softness offers a sense of grounding tranquility. Both rich in heritage and strong in character, it’s able to stand on its own and comfortably adapt to various design settings and styles.

LAKEMARTINREALTY.COM Unlock the value in your lake home and trust the market leaders. DADEVILLE 256.825.9092 Allison Ladson 256.750.0711 Jim Cleveland 256.596.2220 Jerry Purcell 205.382.3417 Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 Adam Yager 205.914.0830 Cindy Scroggins 256.794.3372 Ashley Chancellor 334.202.9017 Jan Hall 256.329.6313 David Mitchell 256.212.3511 Mike Davis 256.226.1238 India Davis 256.749.7592 Lindsay Kane 256.675.6792 Hugh Neighbors 256.750.5071 Howard Haynie 334.312.0693 Damon Story 205.789.9526 Judy Voss 256.794.0779 Mimi Rush 334.399.7874 Amy Duncan 256.212.2222 John Shelton 404.858.9198 Sawyer Davis 205.965.7940 Randall Rogers 334.707.5804 Rhonda Jaye 256.749.8681 John McInnish 334.415.2149 Jeff Cochran 256.786.0099 Michelle Brooks-Slayman 256.749.1031 Denise Cochran 256.786.2484 Judith Jager 205.789.0698 Haley Fuller 256.750.2411 WILLOW POINT 256.212.1498 OURTOWN 256.212.1498WE’RE THE MARKET LEADER LAKE MARTIN REALTY/ RUSSELL LANDS OTHER COMPETITORS (49 OURcompanies)CLOSEST COMPETITOR 45.7% Lake Martin Waterfront Market Share Member*LMAAR/MLSFirms Sales Volume Data May 2021 – April 2022

Style.CraftedJustforYou. YourlocalPella®teamisreadytoshowyoutherightwindowordoorforyourhomeandbudget.Whetherwood,vinyl orfiberglass,letourteamfindtherightproductthatfitsyourvision.Pellacanhelpsupportthecompletionofyour project-fromanewconstructioninstalltoaremodelproject.Yourhomeisunique,soyoushouldn’thavetosettlefor anordinarywindowordoor. Calltodayforyourfreein-homeconsultationandlearnmore. PellaWindow&DoorShowroom 101DistributionDrive,Homewood,AL|205.259.1960 pellabranch.com/AL ©2022PellaCorporation

SALES • REPAIR • RESTORATION • UPHOLSTERY • DRAPERY FURNITURE REPAIR BLEACHING • CHAIR CANING STRIPPING • REFINISHING UPHOLSTERY CHAIRS • SOFAS • BOAT SEATS CAR SEATS WINDOW TREATMENTS CUSTOM SHADES • CURTAINS VALANCES RESTORATION GLASS • PORCELAIN • LEATHER EMBOSSING • GOLD LEAF Days In - Weeks Out (Museum Quality/Reasonably Priced) Hours Mon-Fri 10-5 or by appointment Pick Up and Delivery Available 3722 3rd Ave. S Birmingham, AL 35222 Phone (205) 591-7341 • Email: www.christopherhouseinc.comchristopherhouse8@gmail.com

birminghamhomeandgarden.com16 BH&G | july.august 2022 CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST 2022 { vol. 20 no. 4 } 65 gardens 20 Forever Green Working with Daniel McCurry of Father Nature Landscapes, this family created the ultimate setting for some friendly competition with a backyard putting green. travel 24 Above the Clouds Take the short drive for a long weekend at the upscale McLemore Club near Chattanooga, Tennessee. living well 42 The Nostalgic Crumb Through her blog, The Nostalgic Crumb, Molly Bolton celebrates the memories and connections that are made through baking. homes 48 A Creative Reimaging Architect Matt Costanzo saw the hidden potential beyond the choppy floorplan and outdated materials of his family’s Cherokee Bend home. 56 Timeless and Traditional A new home built for a young family offers the perfect balance of style and function. kitchen winnerscontest 65 We partnered with Robert F. Henry Tile Company for a city-wide kitchen contest—and you had the final vote! Check our your favorites and more. 66 / First Place: Dark Knight 70 / Second Place: Shady Lane 74 / Third Place: Refined Rancher 78 / Editor’s Choice: Azure Kitchen 82 showroom style Robert F. Henry Tile Company Take a look inside one of Birmingham’s top tile and surface companies and meet the team who goes above and beyond to fill our homes with quality and style. recipes 86 Fresh Summer Fun Leslie Byars Register shares recipes to simplify your summer entertaining with fresh picks from the local farmer’s markets. 30 SPECIAL SECTION Foodies 2022 From bee keepers to jam makers to kettle corn poppers, these local, small-batch makers are making a big mark on Birmingham’s food scene. Dive in for some of the tastiest flavors in town.

Speaking of entertaining at home, be sure to turn to page 20 to see how one family has turned their backyard into a fun escape with an at-home putting green using arti cial turf. is landscaping material is becoming a mainstay in many yards—and not just for avid golfers. And if you’re also looking to spruce up your interiors for those summer guests, check out our homes section starting on page 48. Finally, for those looking to get away during this vacation season, McLemore Club (page 24) near Chattanooga, Tennessee, o ers plenty of activities including golf, biking, and rock climbing. ey even have a songwriter series running through October. And the best part? It’s only a couple of hours away. at’s good news with gas prices these days! Whether your summer has you hitting the road or simply relaxing at home, I hope you nd some time to enjoy the slower pace with the ones you love. Enjoy.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com18 BH&G | july.august 2022 Birmingham Home & Garden is published bimonthly in addition to two special issues by PMT Publishing Inc. © 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. ADDRESS ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO: Birmingham Home & Garden, 3324 Independence Drive, Homewood, Alabama 35209, 205.802.6363. Letters to the editor are welcome. Please query the editor before sending unsolicited articles or photographs. Moving? Please send the old label along with your new address to Birmingham Home & Garden, P.O. Box 923773, Norcross, GA 30010-3373. FROM THE EDITOR

Discover how she is re-creating memories through the art of baking. Be sure to try her recipe for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies—the name says it all. More local favorites can be found starting on page 30 with our annual foodies section. is year, we focused on small-batch makers who are bringing jam, honey, salsa, and more to our tables thanks to local shops, markets, and grocers that provide an outlet for these talented epicureans.

Is anyone else hungry? If not, you will be after reading this issue. Focused on foodies and kitchens and locally-grown produce, the stories we put together for these summer months will surely whet your appetite for whipping up some fresh dishes in your own kitchen or enjoying a meal out on the town.

Turn to page 42 to meet Molly Bolton of e Nostalgic Crumb (@thennostalgiccrumb).

In addition to these small-batch chefs, we showcase our kitchen contest winners on page 65. is year, we had nearly 40 entries, which shows how the “heart of the home” has become more important than ever. is is the place where we take care of family and entertain our friends—and these stylish, swoon-worthy winners will o er the inspiration to do that in style.

july.august 2022 | BH&G 19 1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS. Ask a child what he dreams of doing in the future. His answer brings everything into focus for us. Cover Photo: Jean Allsopp / Story: Page 56 PUBLISHER / Walker wsorrell@pmtpublishing.comSorrell EDITOR / Cathy Still csmcgowin@pmtpublishing.comMcGowin ART DIRECTOR / Derek Gaylard ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR / Vic Wheeler PHOTOGRAPHER / Jean Allsopp WEB EDITORS / Abby Parrott, Kathryn Bell COPY EDITOR / Julie Gillis RECIPE EDITOR / Leslie Byars Register CONTRIBUTORS / Alice Welsh Doyle, Mary Fehr, Emily Williams Robershaw, Christiana Roussel, Paige Townley ADVERTISING / SALES Traci 205.802.6363Owen ext. hroddam@pmtpublishing.com205.802.6363Hopetowen@pmtpublishing.com110Roddamext.114 DIRECTOR OF INTEGRATED MEDIA & EVENTS / Sheila Wardy, Amanda Hartin ADMINISTRATION / OFFICE MANAGER Lauren Sullivan ACCOUNTING / Keith Crabtree CIRCULATION / DISTRIBUTION Anita AdvertisingMiller Sales O ce: 3324 Independence Drive Homewood, Alabama 35209 O ce: 205.802.6363 / Fax: 205.802.6393 TO SUBSCRIBE OR FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR SUBSCRIPTION, CALL 1-833-454-5060 or birminghamhomeandgarden.comvisit T.J. POTTS / President THOMAS E. MCMILLAN / Partner & Director PMT Publishing Inc. 3729 Cottage Hill Road, Suite H Mobile, AL 36609 SUBSCRIBE NOW TO BIRMINGHAM HOME & GARDEN AND SAVE OVER 60% OFF THE NEWSSTAND PRICE! 1 YEAR for $20.00 Includes 7 issues, NEW Real Estate guide, 2022 Inspiration Home Resource Guide and 2 bonus publications Subscribe online at BirminghamHomeandGarden.com • Call Toll-Free 1-855-357-3137

birminghamhomeandgarden.com20 BH&G | july.august 2022 Forever Text By EMILY WILLIAMS-ROBERTSHAW Photography by REED BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY FOR A FAMILY OF AVID GOLFERS, A BACKYARD PUTTING GREEN IS THE IDEAL SETTING TO ENTERTAIN FRIENDS AND WORK ON THEIR “A” GAME. •GARDENING• Green

presenting sponsor: first horizon bank textile sponsor: sister parish save e date September 29 – October 2, 2022 benefiting FRIENDS OF BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS BBGARDENS.ORG/ANTIQUES

Daniel explains that most of the putting green spaces they design are multifunctional. “Our mission is to assist our clients in better connecting with their friends and family in their custom outdoor living environment,” he says. “In this case, the wife wanted her children,

While “Astroturf” is synonymous with its 1960s heyday, a la e Brady Bunch backyard, today’s synthetic turf looks natural. “ is turf has become something di erent than the beach vacation miniature golf product,” says Daniel McCurry, co-founder and CEO of Father Nature Landscapes. “It is a highly studied, high-tech option that supports stimp, the roll speed of golf balls, much like a grass putting green.”

july.august 2022 | BH&G 21 hen a Birmingham family that loves to golf needed a multifunctional green space to gather with loved ones and engage in family competitions, the answer was a synthetic turf putting green.

Daniel also notes that while the initial cost of synthetic turf may be higher and the installation is more labor intensive, the cost of maintaining natural grass lawns over time comes at a higher price tag. “Blending synthetic turf into its bordersurroundingsnaturalmightincludeplantingaofdwarfevergreengrass.Italsohelpstonotplacetheturfwithinviewofanexpanseofnaturalgrass.”

fathernaturelandscapes.com

Synthetic turf comes with some advantages and disadvantages for the homeowner, just like natural grass. “Synthetic turf fits with the goal of having a lower maintenance lawn—no more cutting,” says Daniel McCurry of Father Nature Landscapes. “It also has grown in popularity due to environmental concerns.” Real turf for a putting green requires daily mowing, fans, water, fertilizers, pesticides, aeration, topdress, and more.Adds Daniel, “We do irrigate (artificial lawns) to keep the surface clean of dust, as well as to wash off pet urine and keep it cooler during the summer.”

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SYNTHETIC vs. NATURAL

—Daniel McCurry, Father Nature Landscapes sisters, and friends to be able to get together by a re and talk, while the husband wanted the same but through competition with his sons on a putting green.” e Father Nature team designed a green that delivers a dynamic practice experience for the skilled father and sons but also provides fun for players of any level when the homeowners host friends and family. In addition, the design o ers a seating area in front of a wood-burning replace for a more intimate outdoor entertaining experience. Daniel explains that the use of synthetic turf is essential to the function of a home putting green. “A real turf putting surface requires an incredible amount of maintenance,” he says. “For this project, we chose Southwest Greens syntheticAccordingturf.”to Daniel, many varieties of modern synthetic turf emulate the look of a variety of grasses, including Bentgrass, Bermuda, and Zoysia. Brown, curled blades woven into the base of the surface provide a more realistic look of dirt beneath the “sod” while providing a bounce similar to the feel of a real lawn underfoot. “You really have to lay on the grass and touch it to gure out that it is synthetic,” Daniel says. He notes that while there de nitely are instances where natural grass can’t be beat, lawns that are highly-used and heavily shaded are ideal candidates for arti cial turf. For this family, the turf allows everyone to enjoy gathering on the lawn, whether to play golf or simply enjoy relaxing by the re. “Spending time outside with family and friends is one of the best ways to make lasting memories,” Daniel says.

Alabama Pro Turf, LLC • Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 Phone: (205) 799-4047 Open Monday - Saturday 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM We are an exclusive partner of Celebrity Greens. We install world class synthetic golf greens and synthetic turf lawns. Services include golf greens, putting greens, lawns, pet turf, tennis courts, sport ﬁelds, and batting cages. Call us and let us transform your backyard into a maintenance-free area for your pets and family to enjoy for years to come! (205)799-4047 Visit our website at HTTP://CELEBRITYGREENS.COM/BIRMINGHAM EXPERT PUTTING GREENS & ARTIFICIAL GRASS INSTALLERS IN BIRMINGHAM, AL

WHILE MCLEMORE CLUB, A RESORT AND GOLF DESTINATION NEAR CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE, MAY BE A SHORT DRIVE FROM BIRMINGHAM, IT FEELS LIKE IT’S A CONTINENT AWAY. Clouds Above the GOLF: If you’ve ever wanted to play golf in the Scottish Highlands but just haven’t booked the ight, take a drive to McLemore Club to quench your wanderlust. Located atop Lookout Mountain in Northwest Georgia and surrounded by thousands of acres of protected wilderness, state parks, and national parks, the getaway o ers breathtaking views and an 18-hole championship course designed by internationally acclaimed architects Rees Jones and Bill Bergin. Planned in order to take in the natural topography, the mountain course is equally challenging and beautiful. e 18th hole, carved into the edge of a cli , has been named the best nishing hole built since 2000 by Golf Digest and ranks in the top 10 best nishing holes in the world, according to Links magazine.

OTHER ACTIVITES: McLemore Club o ers hiking and mountain biking trails, bouldering and rock climbing routes, and breathtaking waterfalls, as well as wedding and event venues. A songwriter series features Grammy-winning performers May through October. Future plans call for additional amenities, including a full trail system, spa, tness center, tennis and pickle ball, a club pool, and more.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com24 BH&G | july.august 2022 •TRAVEL•

Brook#SHOPLOCALHighlandPlaza205.326.7025 5287 Hwy 280 South Suite 261 Birmingham, Alabama 35242 www.spacecadetsorg.com At Space Cadets, we believe that good design promotes easy organization. Our designers ask key questions to understand how you live, work and play so that we may provide a customized plan for your speciﬁc needs. Your castle should have a beautiful quality system and we can make your closet dreams come true!

Play for a Day: McLemore Club is ranked as one of the best public courses in America by Golf Digest. Though it is a private club, it is open for daily play as well as overnight packages for non-members. Membership options include The Friends of McLemore program that offers the chance to play the course once per season as a non-member. Non-members can also play as the guest of a member (either accompanied or unaccompanied) with varying rates. www.themclemore.com

Drawing inspiration from the area’s natural landscape and Scottish heritage, e Creag [kreyg] and executive chef Anthony Hooper o er elevated comfort food paired with sweeping views within the thoughtfully designed space featuring vaulted beam ceilings, natural wood and stone nishes, and a doublesidedAlongreplace.withfavorites such as the Smoked Portabella Fries, Short Rib Philly, and Wagyu Bavette, e Creag serves craft cocktails and the nest curated whiskeys and wines from around the world.

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DINING:

Leave it to theCALLExpertsTODAY! 205-588-0673 WINDOW CLEANING HOUSE WASHING GUTTER CLEANING

MEMBERSHIP HOMEOWNERSHIP:AND e social membership o ers access to the clubhouse, special events, and golf with certain limitations. e resident membership and non-resident membership include golf privileges and more. Homes and homesites are available for purchase. With full and part-time residents at McLemore, in addition to rental cottages, the club is a weekend destination with overnight accommodations for any size group.

(205) birminghamlandscapedesign.net915-8491

Beneﬁ ing

inspiration 2 Introducing our 2022 Inspiration Home

Welcome to Vestavia Hills

The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs provides early intervention services in a center-based program in Birmingham. Infants and toddlers at risk for developmental delay receive services from transdisciplinary teams which include a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, a speechlanguage pathologist, and an early childhood special education teacher as each child works on individual goals.

e’re breaking ground again! We are so excited to share the rendering for our next Inspiration Home. Located on Chestnut Street in Vestavia Hills, the home will be a beautiful addition to the tree- lled neighborhood. Adam Gerndt designed this family-friendly plan with master on main, three bedrooms and three baths upstairs, and an open-concept living space. Other features will include a wet-room shower (the bath will be in the shower), two replaces, beamed ceilings in the den, and a two-car garage beneath a screened outdoor room. ere’s also a full basement with bath that could serve as guest quarters or as a media room. “ e house brings authentic scale to the neighborhood,” Adam says. “It’s not overblown, but it’s not a small cottage. It’s designed to grow with the family.”

birminghamhomeandgarden.com28 BH&G | july.august 2022 Birmingham Home & Garden, Saunders Bradford Building Company, and designer Adam Gerndt can’t wait for you to experience our next Inspiration Home! Stay tuned for updates in our pages and on social media. Coming November 2022.

| Adams Gerndt Design Group Adams Gerndt Design Group has completed lake houses, farmhouses, mountain houses, hunting camps, beach houses, and primary residences. With every project, they strive to maximize investment, select materials and processes that will ensure longevity, and develop innovative designs. Their use of regional materials and vernacular forms, as well as their sensitivity to the site, lead to timeless designs.

INTERIOR DESIGN LIAISON: Britney Bradford, Neylan Design Britney Bradford is the owner of the interior design ﬁrm Neylan Design. Helping her clients curate an environment that meets their needs, reﬂects their lifestyle, and inspires them daily is her greatest

Meetpassion.the Team Zachery Eldridge REALTOR (205) 705-0748 Zachery@ queenbeerealtyal.com Rolanda Eldridge BROKER (205) 422-7275 Rolanda@ queenbeerealtyal.com

LANDSCAPE DESIGN: Craig Smith & Fletcher Smith | Curb Appeal From landscape design/ build projects to landscape management services, Fletcher Smith and his team’s business was built on repeat customers and referrals because of their commitment to excellence. Whether clients are looking for a tranquil backyard retreat, a play space for kids, or professional property maintenance, Curb Appeal can help.

Mitch Bradford is the owner and operator of Saunders Bradford Building Company. He strives to provide the best in the business for quality, organization, and customer experience. Custom construction is what he knows, and working together with talented team-oriented people is what he desires. He has been in the business for over 18 years helping customers build the home of their dreams.

Saunders Bradford Building Company

july.august 2022 | BH&G 29 BUILDER: Mitch Bradford |

AdamDESIGN:Gerndt

2022 Sometimes, smaller is just better. In a world that seems to be ruled by the loudest and the ﬂashiest, the splashiest and the showiest, it often feels like there is no room for something small or personal or even genuinely authentic anymore. But when it comes to foodstu , smaller can most decidedly be better. The small-batch makers featured here prove that with the goods they bring to market. Some started their businesses as a side hustle while others were clearly looking to carve out a niche in the marketplace. Whether the ﬁnal product is honey or co ee, salsa or cinnamon rolls, the one common element each maker shares is passion, which might be the most irresistible ingredient of all.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com30 BH&G | july.august 2022 FOODIES

Text by CHRISTIANA ROUSSEL Photographs by MARY FEHR

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Our Maple Latte is always a customer favorite, hot or cold: For a hot treat, combine 8 ounces milk of your choice (we prefer oat milk) with 1 ounce maple syrup and a shot of Cala espresso. In the warmer months, we make it cold by combining 6 ounces oat milk with 1 ounce maple syrup and 4 ounces Cala cold brew.

How did two Californians end up starting a coffee business in Alabama? We moved to Birmingham in 2016 without even visiting it first! Our plan was to finish out a one-year internship here and then move on. But after Melanie got accepted into the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at UAB, we decided to stay and put down roots in Cahaba Heights. We’d always dreamed of a co eeroasting company, so in 2021 we decided to start this journey, calling our company Cala for the California/Alabama connection. We began by launching our co ee cart after receiving a lot of encouragement on the Cahaba Heights Community Facebook page. Owning a small business is a wild ride—at times we feel like we are crushing it, but then the next day it can feel like we have no clue what we’re doing. Thankfully we have each other to lean on, so we’re able to tackle the doubts together and get back on track. We worked our first wedding last October.

“Stay in touch with your people.” A friend gave us this bit of advice when discussing how to manage people helping with our brick-and-mortar shop’s buildout, but we’ve applied it in many di erent circumstances. We are committed to staying in touch with our customers by giving them what they like while also staying true to our values. In working around the clock to build our company, our social lives take a hit from time to time. It is during those moments that we remind ourselves to also stay in touch with the people that bring out our best. A small business can only be as happy as the people running it!

“We hope our coﬀee leaves our customers feeling energized and inspired to make connections with others, get their work done, play with their kids a li le more, or push harder in a workout.”

Cala Coffee

Set goals and make plans, but trust your gut. It’s okay to go o -script if you’re being pulled in direction.another

ALABAMA INTERESTINGDOESTHINGS TO PEOPLE. Visitors to the Magic City often find themselves at the corner of “surprised” and “what if” and decide to convert a short stint into a permanent life here. Melanie and Josh Cosio are two such individuals. These transplants from California fell in love with life in Birmingham and decided to put down roots. Their bespoke co ee company, Cala Co ee, is headquartered in Cahaba Heights but is happily ca einating folks all over town. The bride reached out to us in the spring of 2021. We thought it was so exciting that someone believed in us enough to want us at an event months down the road. All of our hard work had finally helped us achieve our goal. Where can we find you? We have a pop-up cart at Fig Tree in Cahaba Heights and at the Saturday Birdsong Market each week. Our co ee cart can also be rented for events like weddings, employee appreciations, grand openings, etc. And you can find our roasted beans at six area Piggly Wiggly locations, as well as Local Source. The full line, along with our Cala merch, can be found on our website: calaco eeco.com. Best advice?

Birmingham is a unique city with lots of opportunity and growth potential. It welcomes innovation and creativity. Community support makes it ideal for small businesses to thrive if they embrace the resources. We’ve been the proud recipients of so many local awards—the 2019 Les Dames d’Esco er new entrepreneur; the 2020 Birmingham Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40; and the 2015 PNC Bank’s Big Pitch, to We donate up to 10% of our annual revenue to causes that work to create change.

Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn Co.

You’ve inspired a fan group who call themselves Popheads. How did you inspire legions?

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THERE IS SOMETHING KIND OF MAGICAL ABOUT POPCORN. The sound of it popping, the smell of it roasting—it all just kind of goes hand-in-hand with fun. You might say that this mentality of bringing people together in a happy state of mind was the “kernel” of how Tanesha and Clem Summers created Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn Co.

We wish we could say that it was always our dream to own a kettle corn shop. Instead, what we have always had a passion for is community and bringing people together in a positive way. Kettle corn does that! After 15 years in the corporate world of banking and digital marketing, I (Tanesha) was ready for something di erent and tapped into my entrepreneurial side to launch the company in 2014. Why ke le corn? Initially, I (Tanesha) wanted to spend more time being a wife and mom and was looking to start a business that would make that possible while still allowing me to give back to people. While we specialize in selling small-batch, artisan-style kettle corn blends, we also use this product to help communities. We help people celebrate life’s sweet moments while keeping social responsibility at the forefront of our operations. What does it mean to call Birmingham home?

july.august 2022 | BH&G 33 name a few—which show how much this city supports people with vision who work hard. Do you have a mantra? Grow where you are planted. I also tell people that success is where preparedness meets opportunity. Never stop learning. Enjoy the process, and be sure to focus on your mental well-being. Where can readers ﬁnd Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn Co. and become the next generation of Popheads? Customers can order online atnbnkettlecorn.com for local pickup or shipping. Or see our events page to ﬁnd Mr. Poppy, our kettle corn food truck. He makes appearances all over town! 261 RELE ST. LANE PARKE ~ 205.703.9003 SHOP THE MOUNTAINBROOKOLIVE.COMWEBSTORE ARTISAN OLIVE OILS & BALSAMICS ~ CHARCUTERIE ETTA B ~ RONALDO ~ GIFT BASKETS GOURMET & GIFT STORE

COUNTLESS HOBBYISTS HAVE WHILED AWAY

Fox Hound Bee Company

“If you had asked me a couple years ago where my business would be, I would have never thought I’d be right in the middle of downtown. My downtown bees actually do be er than any of the bees that I have in more agricultural areas around Birmingham.”

The best use of the honey is to eat it raw just like the bees made it. Of course, it is pretty great on wa es and biscuits too.

AFTERNOONS doing things they love while wondering if their passion could ever turn into a bonified career. As a culinary school graduate of Johnson & Wales—Miami, Adam Hickman had earned the enviable position of cooking and working with food for a good part of his career, developing recipes for Cooking Light and Food & Wine. But after he got his first beehive in 2012, his afternoons and weekends were spent beekeeping. A few years later, he began to work on monetizing the hobby, first selling honey and then becoming a trusted local resource for beekeeping and related equipment. As the bee business began humming, Adam found himself burning the (beeswax) candle at both ends as he tried to balance his daytime career with his honey venture. Enter one global pandemic and a forced work-fromhome status, and Fox Hound Bee Company became Adam’s full-time gig.

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Fox Hound Bee Company offers more than just honey—what else do you do? We take care of our bees, we take care of other people’s bees, and we get honey production from those as well. We also teach beekeepers and supply them with equipment. I have hives all over town, but this is where we can sell to the public and meet with people to talk bees. It sounds like the pandemic was a boon to your business. It definitely was. When I first started Fox Hound years ago, I did so with a blog where we just answered questions for beekeepers to help them learn the skills. During the pandemic, I had more time at home to grow the business. Beekeeping was one of those hobbies that a lot of people took up at that time while they were kind of stuck at home. I was already a resource for beekeepers, so it grew from there. Talk about that growth. As a smallbatch entrepreneur, how do handle it? This may sound strange, but I actually did my best to slow the growth as much as possible. I am a firm believer in too much growth too quickly leads to a lot of mistakes and possibly failure. I didn’t want to expand too fast and make big mistakes with big costs. People think that as a small business, you just sell this product and that’s it. But you also have to be an accountant. You have to be a marketing person. You have to be a logistics manager and o er customer support. You’ve got to be a web designer. There are all these things that you end up having to do that you didn’t really anticipate needing to do.

When you start cooking and applying heat to honey (anything over 105°), it diminishes a lot of the properties that make honey nuanced and special. So I really like to treat our honey as I would ﬁnishing salts, basically drizzling it over things.

After years of working out of my home garage, I ﬁnally have a brick-and-mortar warehouse and retail location at Hardware Park in downtown Birmingham. The entrepreneurial world is a little bit lonely sometimes, so it’s nice to work alongside all these other entrepreneurs. We’re all going through the same kinds of successes and failures together, and we can kind of relate to each other.

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Talk sweet to us. Tell us more. We actually sell some of the honey by zip code, and customers love that. It might sound crazy but you can look at a jar of honey from Bessemer and it looks di erent than one from Avondale or Hoover hives. A lot of customers use the honey to combat allergies, so knowing the location of the honey is a real plus. We also make a bourbon honey by filling spent bourbon barrels, still wet with whiskey, with honey and letting it take on the flavors of the charred oak and bourbon. Every bottle comes with a piece of the barrel added. Customer love that. The same goes with our Korean chili hot honey; you can see the chili flakes in the jar. Working downtown & sticking together.

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Birmingham has had our heart from the beginning because it feels like family! They have cheered us on and been there for us every step of the way with my Lyla. The support from our customers and other local businesses has been a huge help. Children’s Hospital has also been an important part of this story. We make a special Lyla Roll with fancy unicorn sprinkles, and a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Lyla Rolls goes directly back to Children’s Hospital. What keeps you pushing forward? Lyla’s situation certainly gives me perspective. I kept thinking, “If my baby can ﬁght like this, I really have no excuse. I need to step up to the plate and ﬁght too.” I should add that my dad is my greatest mentor. He has been successful in his career while balancing caring for a sick wife throughout his marriage to my mom. I still stand in awe of how he could make it all work. His “Live and love to the fullest. We are not promised tomorrow. Make the best out of every situation. Live intentionally and with generosity.”

strong faith, servant’s heart, and generous spirit are what make him who he is. I want to be just like him when I grow up! Where can readers ﬁnd all the amazing rolls you are churning out? We are so proud to be carried in six local Piggly Wiggly locations, as well as in stores in Mississippi and Tennessee. We had a storefront location in Homewood but found we could grow our business better by focusing on wholesale production. Customers can also place orders on line for local delivery or shipping. We also do catering. Our single-serve rolls are a huge hit at wedding receptions, baby showers, and anywhere else people like to enjoy something sweet and homemade.

Let’s face it, rolls of any kind are hard to resist. Katie Cornutt sure ﬁgured that out when she launched her Rolls Bakery back in March 2019. At the time, Katie was looking for solace in between round-the-clock feedings of her newborn, Lyla, who was born with a severe heart defect. Encouraged by a roll-loving neighbor to “just start an Instagram page,” Katie took the leap, launched a brand, and never looked back.

As a busy mom, what’s your favorite mom hack when it comes to serving rolls? I like to thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight and then the next morning, I can pop one in a mini-wa e maker ($10 at Target!) so the kids can be eating a hot cinnamon roll in under ﬁve minutes. her heart. Doctors and surgeons at Children’s Hospital told me she would need several open-heart surgeries to survive. Once she was born, her feeding schedule meant that my work schedule had to change. My son, Lennon, was the one who encouraged me to make my Grandma Schumm’s rolls recipe, which always brought everyone some comfort. What does it mean to have your business here in Birmingham?

You le behind the world of real estate to become a full-ﬂedged, small-batch producer of some pre y tasty baked goods. What prompted that change? When I was 22 weeks pregnant with my daughter, Lyla, I learned that she has a condition called hypoplastic left heart syndrome, meaning she would be born without a left ventricle of

birminghamhomeandgarden.com36 BH&G | OOEY, GOOEY CINNAMON ROLLS. BROWN SUGAR MONKEY BREAD ROLLS. PIZZA ROLLS. ORANGE ROLLS.

Rolls Homewood

SAVORY amd www.edgarsbakery.com 205.987.0790

Woodhill Cottage Cream Scones 2 cups all purpose ﬂour 1 tablespoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ cup sugar ¹/³ cup butter, cut up 1 cup heavy whipping cream Preheat oven to 375°. Combine ﬁrst 4 ingredients. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add cream, stirring just until moistened. Knead 5-6 times. Roll to ½-inch thickness. Cut and cook for 15 minutes.

“Don’t try to ﬁgure out how it usually is done or how it should be done. Instead, think about what you want to accomplish, think through the ﬁrst steps, and look around the corners. Be active andandintentional—havefun!”

Tomato jam is fantastic on a grilled cheese (and on a grilled pimento cheese sandwich), on scrambled eggs, and over cream cheese with crackers. And it honestly takes a hamburger to another level.

Find BrookChristine’sCottageWoodhillJamsatinMountainVillageandLittleHardwareinEnglishVillage.

So a orney by day and jam-magnate on the weekends. How did that come about? Well I probably wouldn’t call myself a jammagnate, but I do love this endeavor that is my creative outlet. The recipes are ones I’ve had forever and have tweaked over the years. I often give something homemade to my neighbors and friends for Christmas. One of my favorites to give is tomato jam. Few folks have ever had it, and everyone wants more as soon as they taste it.

SOUTHERN WOMEN MIGHT JUST BE BORN KNOWING HOW TO PRESERVE THINGS. Be it jams or jellies, pickled okra or dilly green beans, if it can be sealed in a jar to be gifted and enjoyed later, we’re all in. Jenny McCain is one of those women who comes by her preserving skills naturally while also being blessed with a business acumen like no other. A practicing attorney by day (and nights too, if you know anything about the kind of hours lawyers put in), she founded Woodhill Cottage as a creative outlet, one that honors the entrepreneurial spirit of her grandmother.

Tell us about the woman who inspired you to start Woodhill Co age. My grandmother Ruby co-founded and served as chief operating o cer of our family’s children’s-wear manufacturing company. She also majored in home economics at Samford University (then Howard College). Our time together focused equally on discussions about business and home economics. She loved to cook and loved a pretty table just as much as she loved landing a new customer. Her life was a lovely blend of business and home, and I’m very similar to my grandmother in that way. I love both business and home—and I like a challenge.

Business in Birmingham: The enthusiasm and experience-based advice I’ve received from friends and business owners in Birmingham may be the single greatest reason I decided to start this venture. So many people have encouraged me. Birmingham is a food town, and for a long time, everyone I knew either was working at Southern Living or used to work there. These friends are now some of my best advisors and cheerleaders.

Woodhill Cottage

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AS MOST ENTREPRENEURS WILL TELL YOU, when you’re committed to your passion, you’ll ﬁnd the time to dedicate to it. For many who are in the nascent stage of establishing their businesses, those hours fall outside of their regular full-time work schedule. For salsa man Jimmy Brogden, those late-night hours inspired the name of his company, After Midnight Salsa Company.

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After Midnight Salsa

How did you get your start?

Your salsas have some funny but memorable names. My salsas are made fresh without any preservatives or any ingredients you can’t pronounce. A friend of mine tried my original salsa, but she claimed to be a sissy and needed it to be milder, so I named that one Sissy Salsa. My buddy Joseph likes things really hot, so I called that one Lava Joe. And the one in the middle? Well, I just call that Fire in the Hole.

What is a saying you keep in mind when you think about being a small-batch maker? I always say that it is the customers who build the business; we just do the work. I think if you keep that perspective, everything else falls into place.

“Always try to do everything right the ﬁrst time. If you don’t have time to do it right, when are you going to have time to do it again?”

I’ve lived in a lot of di erent places, but Birmingham has the best conglomeration of the best chefs in the country. This is a foodie town, and people really support one another here. I have seen that ﬁrsthand at Pepper Place.

What makes Birmingham the perfect place for A er Midnight Salsa Company?

I started making salsa to bring to potluck lunches when I worked in the corporate world. The ladies went crazy for it, telling me I needed to sell it, so I ﬁnally did. We’ve been selling at Pepper Place Market since 2012. We’re now entering our 10th season there, and the market has been really, really good to us.

NostalgicCrumb The IN THE KITCHEN... with MOLLY BOLTON Text By CATHY STILL MCGOWIN Photography by MARY FEHR MOLLY BOLTON STARTED HER BLOG, THE NOSTALGIC CRUMB, AS A WAY TO RE-CREATE CHILDHOOD MEMORIES. NOW, SHE’S SHARING HER RECIPES AND BAKING KNOWLEDGE TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO FIND THEIR OWN SWEET MOMENTS.

july.august 2022 | BH&G 43 olly and Jeremy Bolton’s front stoop welcomes guests with a doormat that reads “Home Sweet Home.” at kind sentiment is enough to make anyone feel welcome, but once you open the door, it’s the delightful aroma of baked goods that makes you want to sit at the kitchen island and stay awhile. Founder of e Nostalgic Crumb, she started baking as a way to revive memories of her childhood. A Dallas native, Molly says that baking was a regular activity with her mom and grandmother, a ectionately known as JuJu. “Every time I bake JuJu’s poundcake, its scent takes me straight back to Amarillo,” Molly says, referring to her grandmother’s hometown. “Whenever I’m at a loss for recipes, I just look in JuJu’s box. I’m such a sucker for a well-worn recipe card that’s faded and marked with batter.” ose sweet memories turned into a passion when Molly found herself not 4300 1st Avenue South • Birmingham, AL 35222 • 205.323.6033 lolofrenchantiques.com • Monday-Friday 10-5 / Saturday 11-4 Lolo French Antiques et More lolofrenchantiques Lolo French Antiques et More o ers one of the South’s most impressive collections of period and style pieces dating from the 17th to mid-20th century. With 30 years experience buying and importing French antiques, owner Laurent Gouon has the knowledge needed to help you make your most important antique purchases.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com44 BH&G | july.august 2022 just baking but also developing new recipes and ideas to blog and photograph.

e Nostalgic Crumb, Molly has multiple goals—to develop recipes for brands, to provide content for publications, and to write a cookbook. She also hopes to open a teaching kitchen one day. Right now, Molly’s favorite people to cook for include husband Jeremy and her two children, Francie and Elliott. “My true passion is homemaking and loving my family, and I enjoy sharing that with others,” she says.

“At rst, I tried selling my baked goods, but it got complicated because I’m a one-woman show and the orders were so varied. at’s when I shifted my focus,” sheWithsays.

“Baking is an easy way to invite people into your home and life. Beyond sugar, ﬂour, and eggs, it’s my way of connecting with others.”

—Molly Bolton Molly calls her newly renovated kitchen her o ce. Designed and built by River Brook Design & Construction, the space suits her needs perfectly thanks to plenty of marble countertops, a double oven, and a concealed pantry for dry goods and baking pans.

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226 grams (1 cup) unsalted butter, 250gramssoftened (1¼ cups) lightly packed light brown sugar

100grams (½ cup) granulated sugar 1 large egg plus 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature

¼ teaspoonbaking powder

312grams (2½ cups) spooned and leveled all-purpose ﬂour

1 teaspoonvanilla extract

113grams (4 ounces) high-quality semisweet chocolate, chopped 165 grams (¾ cup) semisweet chocolate chips your the most accurate way to

• Bake for 14-17 minutes, preferably one cookie sheet at a time, until edges are golden brown and centers are set. Remove from the oven and allow to set on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. soft chocolate, this thick, 24 hours, 30 minutes 15–18

• In the bowl of a stand mixer ﬁtted with the paddle attachment, add butter, brown sugar, and sugar, and beat on medium speed until combined and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.

With chewy, caramelized edges;

• Preheat the oven to 350°F, and line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Using a #16 spring-loaded cookie scoop, scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing 3 to 4 inches apart.

• In a separate bowl, combine the ﬂour, kosher salt, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder. Add the ﬂour mixture to the batter in 2 additions, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix. Using a rubber spatula, fold in chopped chocolate and chocolate chips by hand.

• Tightly cover the dough, and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, preferably up to 24 hours(TIP: the longer you chill the dough, the more flavorful and golden the cookies will be!).

centers; and loads of

1 teaspoonbaking soda

ingredients is

bake. :

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(includes chill time) Yield:

1 teaspoonkosher salt

1 teaspooncornstarch

bakery-style cookie leaves you wanting absolutely nothing! Cook Time: 16 minutes Total Time:

best,

• Mix in egg and egg yolk, one at a time, making sure that the ﬁrst is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla.

large cookies Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies:

RESOURCES: Kitchen design, lamps, barstools, rug: River Brook Design & Construction • Cabinet color: “Narragansett Green” (semi-gloss) by Benjamin Moore Hardware: Brandino Brass • Sconces and pendant: Visual Comfort through Mayer Lighting Art: Colleen Leach NOTE: I develop my recipes in grams because weighing

birminghamhomeandgarden.com48 BH&G | july.august 2022 ARCHITECT MATT COSTANZO TOOK A PREDICTABLE CHEROKEE BEND LAYOUT AND GAVE IT A FULL-SIZED SPIN TO CREATE A FLOW THAT WORKS FOR MODERN FAMILY LIVING WITH PLENTY OF CUSTOM DETAILS. A ReimagingCreative Text by ALICE WELSH DOYLE Photography by JEAN ALLSOPP

e couple saw a shining future for their home in Cherokee Bend and considered the positives—a huge private lot and generous one-level living spaces. ey knew it could turn into the modern family home theyFirstenvisioned.itemtotackle— nding a way to let in more light. “ ere were a lot of large windows, which was a plus, so I saw hope to remedy the dark, dreary atmosphere,” says Matt. Without changing the footprint, the architect cleverly swapped spaces, got rid of hallways, replaced doors with

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THIS IMAGE: A newly created breakfast area connects the family room to the kitchen. Matt chose brick for the ﬂooring to set it apart from the adjoining spaces. Hiding behind the dark gray family room walls is the original orangishbrown stained wood paneling—the new paint color gives the room an easy, sophisticated lift.

ften a dated home just needs someone with vision to look beyond its inherent aws and see the potential that lurks behind choppy rooms, dark corners, and outmoded materials. Architect Matt Costanzo and his wife Lisa are a case in point.

ABOVE: The Costanzo family: (from left) daughter Julia, Matt, and Lisa.

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openings, reworked windows, and stole space from existing rooms to create a modern layout that captures the light. e laundry and powder bath, formerly o the kitchen, took up partial residence in a repurposed guest suite, making way for a breakfast room that opens to the family den and kitchen. e former dining space was transformed into a connecting keeping room that allows views to the kitchen and living-turneddining room. To create a true ensuite main bathroom, the architect took in the rest of the guest suite to house a soaking tub and shower. New rooms also sprung out of underutilized space. “One of the Painted a creamy white with a slightly deeper shade for the shutters, the homes’s façade ﬂoats in the lush rolling landscape of Cherokee Bend.

—Matt Costanzo, archtect and homeowner biggest draws for me in this house was the unlimited attic area,” says Matt. “I converted it into two bedrooms and a playroom, and we still had enough room left over for a small full bath.”

“The privacy of this space was a big draw for us,” says Matt. With the use of a substantial retaining wall, Matt fulfilled Lisa’s wish for a pool and outdoor dining area. Potted trees, boxwoods, creeping fig, along with synthetic turf impart a Mediterranean vibe. “We all really enjoy one-level living. In our previous home, my office was up on the third floor. Now I can easily walk to the kitchen, and I feel more engaged with family life.”

In addition, certain subtle changes helped take the home from the 1970s into today. A custom-designed front door brought much-needed light into the entry. Dated ooring such as parquet and terra-cotta tiles made an exit, while reworked beams and bookcases in the family room delivered a fresh attitude. When it came to color choices, the couple wanted to depart from the palette used in their previous homes in A multi-paned custom door designed by Matt allows light to ﬂood the entry hall, while a classic crystal chandelier original to the home holds court with contemporary art and a streamlined console table.

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BELOW: An overscaled and jubilant ﬂoral-print wallpaper injects a small room with a big shot of stylish fun.

ABOVE: An opening replaced a wall and swinging door in the updated kitchen, allowing much-needed ﬂow throughout the living RIGHT:spaces.Theformer dining room, reimagined as a keeping room, exudes elegant ease highlighted by a favorite painting from David Kidd that the couple had in their previous home.

Crestline. “We didn’t want to feel bound to continue a primarily white look forever, so we looked for richer tones,” says Lisa. She discovered a marble slab for the kitchen with veins in a purplish hue that started the conversation at shade served as inspiration for the deep plum keeping room walls. e moody color beautifully sets o a favorite piece of art the couple already owned, allowing it to take center stage. e plum also speaks harmoniously to the

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Get To Know

“Ma and I collaborate well together and enjoy the process when it comes to the interiors. We have realized that if we don’t both love it and agree on it, then it’s not right.”

—Lisa Costanzo

Architect Matt Costanzo

Some career paths move along on a steady, straight-ahead path while others are more circuitous. Architect Matt Costanzo’s fell into the latter category. Raised in Bellport, Long Island, Matt found his way to the architecture program at Clemson, receiving a degree in the related field of construction science and management and eventually taking a position for a general contactor in Southampton, New York. “While I worked on some exciting projects, I quickly realized that my passion lay in design,” he says. Matt then landed a commercial architecture position in Atlanta, where he met his wife, Lisa. When the couple contemplated the tight Atlanta real estate market, they shifted their sights to Birmingham, Lisa’s hometown. “After a visit to plan the wedding, I was pleasantly surprised with the city’s beauty,” says Matt. “And the villages of Mountain Brook reminded me so much of home.” In 2002, Matt was o ered an ideal opportunity with James Carter to learn the ins and outs of an architecture practice. “I fell even deeper in love with design,” he says. In 2008, Matt detoured back to the corporate commercial arena, but he kept his footing in architecture by moonlighting outside his day job. “The one thing I was lacking was certification as a registered architect, so I found a program in Boston that I could take primarily from home to acquire a master’s of architecture degree,” he says. “And I finally became a registered architect in my mid-forties.”

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A large brass lantern replaced the expected crystal chandelier which found a new home in the entry. Purple hues in the velvet draperies and entry painting hold hands with the deeper plum in the facing keeping room.

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grays chosen for the foyer and the family roomebeyond.couple’s uency in the same design language resulted in a winning combination of antiques and more contemporary nds. For example, a vintage settee upholstered in navy velvet sits comfortably with curved, white dining chairs in the breakfast room. ey also played into the concept of high/low with selections from West Elm, CB2, and even a piece or two from Target.

“We both think the mix makes rooms more engaging and brings down the formality,” says Lisa. And thanks to this lively approach to décor, as well as Matt’s creative design solutions, this home now sings with modernity and joy—a winning tune for the family.

OPPOSITE, BOTTOM: In the main bedroom, the couple took a quieter turn from the home’s bolder palette with a favorite custom blue-gray for the walls that they carried over from their prior home, along with the toile window treatments.

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RESOURCES: Architect and landscape design: Matthew V. Costanzo Landscape installation: Millhouse Howell Synthetic turf: ProGround through Matthew V. Costanzo Kitchen Cabinets: Mendez Woodworks Hardware: Brandino Brass Appliances: AllSouth Appliance Group, Inc. Countertops: Triton Stone Group Countertop fabrication and installation: SurfaceOne Tile and backsplash: Fixtures & Finishes Kitchen walls and cabinet color: Ammonite by Farrow & Ball Brick ﬂoors: Acme Brick Bathroom ﬁxtures: Ferguson and Restoration Hardware Bath tile: Crossville Tile & Stone

THIS IMAGE: The dreamy soaking tub carved out of a former guest suite looks out to the beautiful pool.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com56 BH&G | july.august 2022 A BALANCE OF FORM AND FUNCTION GIVES THIS MOUNTAIN BROOK BUILD A MASTERFUL MIX OF LAID-BACK LIVING AND CLASSIC STYLE. Traditional Timeless and Text By PAIGE TOWNLEY / Photography by JEAN ALLSOP

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Countertops and backsplash of Montclair Danby marble from Triton Stone Group add to the kitchen’s bright, all-white color scheme. Brass pendants over the island complement the library sconce above the farmhouse sink. A white oak cabinet o ers a bit of contrast to the palette.

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Two sets of French doors open onto a covered outdoor room that extends the living space in warm weather. Along with the cedar beams, well-placed accents such as the brown leather chairs and rustic console table provide warmth to the family’s main hangout space.

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ABOVE: Carey and Kelsey Davis (with son, James) were immediately drawn to the large size of the lot that would eventually house their Mountain Brook abode.

Building a home was top of the bucket list for Kelsey and Carey Davis since the day they got married. “Every Sunday we would drive around to look at homes and talk about what we’d build,” says Carey. “ at was our fun thing to do.” ose weekly drives paid o when the couple made the lot-purchasing plunge and began designing their dream home. From the beginning, the couple was likeminded in their must-have list. At the very top was a traditional style with a layout that was open yet included intentional, well-de ned spaces. Another prerequisite was functionality—without compromising on form and nishes. “We knew we wanted to start a family soon, so the space needed to be designed for a family,” Kelsey says. “We wanted it to be pretty yet livable with classic nishes.” anks to architect Scott Carlisle’s vision and interior designer Shea Bryars’ elevated eye for design, the Davises were able to check all of those boxes—and then some. Starting with a large foyer, Scott created an open concept for the main

TOP: To make the home’s exterior feel as classic and timeless as the interior, architect Scott Carlisle chose a traditional, non-painted brick featuring a reddish hue and accented with cedar beams at the front entry.

—Kelsey Davis

“The biggest compliment we get is when friends who come visit for the ﬁrst time tell us how homey it feels.”

birminghamhomeandgarden.com july.august 2022 | BH&G 61 oor. Each space connects to one other through arched openings and is further distinguished by various ceiling treatments such as cedar beams and pecky cypress. In addition to the main living areas, Scott also designed spaces for respite, such as the keeping and hearth rooms. To meet the couple’s functionality needs, Scott added graciously-sized, task-focused rooms, such as a butler’s pantry and a separate laundry room with a shower just for the family dogs, Gus and ABOVE AND RIGHT: The rich warm ﬁnishes in the hearth room were inspired by the Davises’ recent trip to Europe. Here, the couple enjoys catching up ﬁreside in a pair of velvet wingback chairs accented with plaid pillows. To continue this English gentlemen’s club look, designer Shea Bryars wrapped the adjacent powder room walls in a large-patterned wallpaper from Cole & Son.

LEFT: The dining room serves as the formal eating area when friends and family visit. Tufted linen chairs dress up the custom-made, white oak table, while the brass chandelier provides a bit of shine. The Oushak rug from LillieKat Rugs features pops of blue, periwinkle, green, and coral that tie the space together with the living room.

And because it’s slipcovered, it is easily washable. e same linen-look fabric was carried over to the keeping room for the swivel chairs. And in the main living spaces, Shea relied on leather upholstery for easy care. “We are amazed at how the interiors combine funtionality with beauty,” Kelsey says. “And it all feels so cozy.” For this young family, it strikes the perfect balance.

While most walls are covered in

birminghamhomeandgarden.com62 BH&G | july.august 2022 Allie. And to provide easy accessibility to the outdoors, the architect incorporated doors wherever possible, including in the master bedroom where they lead directly to the Sheabackyard.addeddetails and nishes that ensure the new home’s design balances out the couple’s traditional aesthetic.

OPPOSITE, TOP TO BOTTOM: The keeping room just o the kitchen o ers a brighter counterpart to the hearth room thanks to light upholstery and window treatments. The master bathroom provides plenty of room with storage for two.

THIS PAGE: The silver canopy bed inspired the white, beige, and silver color palette in the master bedroom. A bench from Stock & Trade creates a comfortable spot to slip shoes on or o —or for Gus, one of the family’s dogs, to lounge.

Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Co ee, the designer injected color in the hearth room by painting paneled walls in Jack Pine (Benjamin Moore). Fabrics were thoughtfully chosen to be durable enough for an active, growing family.

For example, a performance fabric gives the classic camel sofa its linen look.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com july.august 2022 | BH&G 63 RESOURCES: Interior Design: Shea Bryars Design Architect: Carlisle Moore Architects Builder: Davis Construction Landscape: Daviscapes, Inc. Kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets, and china cabinet in kitchen: Hamm Custom Cabinets Dining room table: Seth Hart Carpentry Kitchen and bath hardware: Brandino Brass Kitchen appliances: Ferguson Draperies: custom by Deanna Hollis, 205.612.5821; @housewarmingsbirmingham Living room accent tables, dining console, and paintings: White House Interiors

COLLAB OR ATI NG TO CRE AT E TH E BEAUT IF UL SPAC ES YOU L IVE IN EVE RY DAY. T IL E. IT ’S WHAT WE DO. BIRMIN G HA M , ALA BA MA 4500 1st Ave N Birmingham, AL www.HenryTile.com205-592-861535222 As experts in tile design and products for 88 years, we welcome you to visit our showrooms and discover our extensive collections while working with our dedicated designers. ADD IT IO NA L LOC AT IO NS Montgomery • Huntsville Tuscaloosa • Pensacola • Memphis Nashville • Baton Rouge PROUD SPONSOR OF BIRMINGHAM HOME & GARDEN MAGAZINE’S 2022 FRESH KITCHEN CONTEST

Flip through the following pages to tour these winning spaces and nd some inspiration for your own kitchen. From colorful to rustic to rancher, these rooms are full of substance and style.

WINNERSCONTEST

And while these kitchens may di er in design, they all serve as the all-important heart of the home.

NO MATTER WHAT SORT OF GATHERING YOU HOST AT YOUR HOME, ONE THING IS TRUE:

Text by CATHY STILL MCGOWIN

Everyone ends up congregating in the kitchen. ere’s just something about the space that draws people in. We partnered with Robert F. Henry Tile Company to spotlight this favorite room with a kitchen contest. Entries came in from across the city and beyond, and you—our readers—had the nal vote.

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KITCHEN and present

You really can go home again. is client returned to her childhood home, a 1992 Georgian, with the caveat that she would keep the memories but update the interiors for her family. “She wanted rich enhancements that coincided with the original structure of the home,” says designer

1st PLACE Nicole Roby. “And she asked for saturated colors but still wanted the kitchen to feel light and airy. We took inspirations from the handsome tones in the original mahogany oors and cherry nishes throughout.” Cabinets are painted Black Fox (Sherwin-Williams) to

Photography by JEAN ALLSOPP

•KITCHENS•

birminghamhomeandgarden.com66 BH&G | july.august 2022

DARK KNIGHT

Designer Nicole Roby refashioned a kitchen for a client’s childhood home on Lake Guntersville to bring it up to date for the next generation.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com july.august 2022 | BH&G 67 add drama and depth. For contrast, Nicole introduced Cristallo quartzite countertops on perimeter surfaces, as well as on the two islands. And to bring in some shine, she incorporated brass hardware from Brandino Brass and a pair of matching lanterns from Ferguson Bath, Kitchen,

TIP: Two islands allow room for everyone to enjoy the space. Devote one to the chef and use the second as a serving bar or casual dining spot. and Lighting Gallery above the center island. Color palette aside, perhaps the most dramatic introduction is the La Cornue range and hood. “ e custom range with the brass nish looks like a piece of armor,” says Nicole. “It actually inspired the name of the kitchen, ‘Dark Knight.’”

“The goal for this project was to optimize the kitchen area for

Venable Custom

RESOURCES: Interior designer: Nicole Roby Designs Builder: Home

DEFINING style

It takes two. To create distinction between the two islands yet maintain a consistent use of materials, Nicole created a waterfall e ect with Cristallo quartzite on the inner island. Twist on tradition. Subway tile is a perennial favorite for a timeless look. Nicole broke up the traditional, horizontal installation with a chevronpatterned inset behind the range. Color cues: The caramel veining on the countertops cues the warm wood hues on the home’s ﬂoors and trim, helping bridge the new design with existing architectural features.

Construction Hardware: Brandino Brass Countertops: Cottage Supply Downtown Fixtures: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, and Lighting Gallery Cabinets: Covenant Cabinets

68 BH&G | july.august 2022

—designer Nicole Roby

itimportantly,and,entertainingmostmakeaplacewherethefamilycouldcongregateandspendspecialmoments.”

SHADY LANE

Retro tting a new kitchen into a historic barn is no easy task, but it o ers an inspiring jumping-o point for design. As the primary home for Linda and Michael Adler, owners of wedding and events venue e Barn at Shady Lane, the barnturned-home is one of two structures located on a picturesque swath of farmland near Ross Bridge. When establishing their new home and business, the Adlers focused on the event barn rst—a glammed-up rustic structure that can accommodate parties of up to 300 people. Once that was complete, they turned to their own home. Of top importance—a new kitchen. Working with Ivy Schuster of Hatcher Schuster Interiors, the couple saw their ideas and concepts begin to ow. “We all wanted the kitchen to have a collected feel to look like something that evolved over time,” says Ivy. “We also knew the room was dictated by the linear design of the TIP: Tie in to existing finishes with complementary colors and a mix of materials. Countertops are stone, while the island features wood. Select cabinets are painted gray to reflect the hues in the concrete floors and the natural tones in the wood ceiling and beams.

2nd

Photography by JEAN ALLSOPP / Styling by IVY SCHUSTER

birminghamhomeandgarden.com70 BH&G | july.august 2022

A new kitchen adds another chapter to a historic barn-turned-home located at Shady Lane, an events venue in Bessemer, Alabama. PLACE R

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RESOURCES: Interior design: Ivy Schuster, Hatcher Schuster Builder: David Peeks Cabinets: Kitchen Potential, Inc. Paint colors: Sherwin-Williams (island: Iron Ore; glass cabinet: Agreeable Gray) Hardware: Top Knobs Hardware Appliances: Sub-Zero through AllSouth Appliance Group Stone countertops: Surface One Island countertop: Evolutia space, so we had to carefully determine what felt right for the island and the area around it.”

Interiors

“This kitchen embraces the historic envelope of the barn while providing a modern, clean aesthetic in the new elements that were layered in. It’s timeless, clean, and simple with an overall unique composition.”

With the perimeters set, Ivy and the Adlers focused their attention on function and style. “I felt like the kitchen could have a more modern design that would create a nice contrast with the rustic nature of the barn,” says Ivy. “I also wanted the space to be a re ection of Linda and Michael, who value handcrafted materials, time with family, and their own unique style.”

Standout appointments include the island’s handmade wood countertop from Evolutia and the handmade tile from Cle Tile on the wall. Custom cabinets by Kitchen Potential were painted in shades of gray to contrast the rustic wood of the barn while also adding dimension and interest. New cable lighting adds a contemporary vibe while the large pendants are more in keeping with the barn aesthetic—all part of the unique balance that seems to check every box on the Adlers’ wish list.

—designer Ivy Schuster

BEFORE

Patty and her husband, Chris, had agreed to clean everything out before the demolition would start, but Chris had just tested positive for COVID the day before and was sequestered to their lake house. at le Patty to handle the nal steps to prepare for the project. But even with all of the stress at that moment, Patty knew they were in good hands. e couple’s journey began some months before when they decided to make their Indian Springs home their “forever home.” ey realized that a full-scale kitchen remodel was the rst step towards realizing

Designed

It was 3:00 AM, and Patty Curow was scrambling to pack up everything in her kitchen. But she wasn’t moving. Instead, she was preparing for her con tractor to arrive in a few hours to put down cardboard walkways and plastic barriers in order to start ripping out her kitchen.

To Please that potential, so they contacted a few design/build remodeling contractors. From the get-go, Precision Homecra ers was the frontrunner as they seemed to understand the project and the Curows’ expectations. ere was something about their designer, Holly Burrow, and the Precision team’s pro cess that set Chris and Patty at ease. “Holly understood my aesthetic and was able to assist me with selections,” says Patty. Since the Curows have a large family, they wanted a more open concept for enter taining. e original kitchen had minimal counter space and a very small area for gatherings. ere also was a long peninsula near the back door that limited access to the back porch. In addition, the adjacent dining room was only being used for storage. Precision Homecra ers began by demol ishing the wall between the dining room and kitchen to create an enlarged kitchen ere was something about their designer, Holly Burrow, and the Precision team’s process that set Chris and Patty at ease.

— By Joshua Dean, President, Precision Homecra ers, LLC

104 Trade Center Dr., Birmingham, AL 35244 info@precisionhomecra ers.com 205-733-9583 • www.precisionhomecra ers.com e region’s leading professional with over 24 years experience. with eat-in area, breakfast nook, and co ee bar. e opening between the dining room and living room was then widened several feet. Project manager, Phillip McClain, oversaw all the construction details, which included modi cations in the space below to support the load. Footings and steel posts were installed to support an LVL beam, which was needed to open the new kitchen to the replace area, connecting all the main living spaces together. To create access to the back door, the team removed the old peninsula. e door was then replaced with a 4-footwide French door unit to allow a better view of the pool and bring in more natural light. Using a mix of metal and wood, Holly created a classic chef’s kitchen. e appliances were upgraded to include a Wolf dual-fuel range with infrared griddle and a 42-inch SubZero refrigerator. A Wolf convection steam oven drawer and a beverage refrigerator were also tted into theNow,island.when the Curows entertain, their kitchen functions precisely how they envisioned. “If we ever do any more work to our home, I will want to work with Holly again,” says Patty. “And Chris will insist that Phillip be the project manager.”

birminghamhomeandgarden.com74 BH&G | july.august 2022 RANCHERREFINED Designer Katrina Porter upped the style quotient in this ranch home, bringing modern midcentury style to the forefront, along with stylish appointments and conveniences. 3rd PLACE Photography by PAULA COLDIRON / Styling by KATRINA PORTER AND JEANNIE HOFFMAN Before

july.august 2022 | BH&G 75 Social Media L OGO C OLLECTION Social Media L OGO C OLLECTION

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TIP: The ceiling-mount hood from Wolf can be mounted higher than a typical ventilation system. Tucked up and out of view, this necessary appliance takes a step back to let the Porcini slab shine.

RESOURCES: Interior design: Katrina Porter, Katrina Porter Designs Builder: BECA Residential Cabinets: Village Woodworks Hardware: Schaub pulls in White Bronze from Brandino Brass Appliances: AllSouth Appliance Group Bianco Rhino Honed Marble countertops: Triton Stone Group and Alabama Stone Works: Porcini marble backsplash: Triton Stone Group and Alabama Stone Works Plumbing: Waterstone faucet purchased through Ferguson

Task Stations: A charging station for phones and devices resides in a drawer beneath the co ee maker. Other drawers feature custom peg systems to keep plates and bowls in place. Another cabinet ﬁts a vacuum. It opens to the ﬂoor and accommodates an outlet for quick cleanup.

Hidden Appliances: The refrigerator and freezer blend seamlessly with the rest of the kitchen thanks to custom cabinet fronts. Counter appliances such as the co ee maker and microwave are hidden behind a retractable cabinet door adjacent to the sink. Wood nishes on cabinets are making a comeback in a big way, but today’s look is fresh and modern, unlike the imsy, orange-tinged, lacquered cabinets original to many 1960s ranch homes. For clients Jeannie and Mark Ho man, designer Katrina Porter stepped in to transform a cramped, U-shaped kitchen into a streamlined, open, airy space that de es its dated nishes. “My projects begin with layout, space planning, conceptualizing how the space will be used, and guring out the best location of appliances for both function and focal points,” Katrina says. With plans in place to open up the space and realign task areas, as well as to add some much-needed storage, Katrina turned her focus to aesthetics. Jeannie was interested in a light-oak nish for the cabinets, so Katrina brought in Village Woodworks for the project. e resulting rift cut white oak cabinets o er clean lines that are complemented by the honed Porcini marble backsplash—something that Katrina calls nature’s art. “ e marble slab has a greenish, blue/teal veining,” she says. “It adds color in a subtle way.” is de ning detail stands as a focal point, neatly framed by the range surround. “It’s the rst thing you see when you step into the kitchen,” says Katrina.

This kitchen gets its clean, crisp look thanks to streamlined cabinets and cleverly concealed storage and appliances. Here are the features you don’t see: Roll-out Pantry: No one likes to dig deep into the recesses of a pantry for dry goods or dishes. A roll-out system keeps everything at the forefront.

IN GOOD order

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To help the couple meet in the middle, Heather opted for cabinets with custom beaded inset recessed panels—a design with just-enough trim and furniture detailing to give a nod to conventional style. Brittney then had her say with the punch of blue on the island and the dramatic tiled wall (Eastern Promise from Ann Sacks). “I convinced the couple to not only tile the whole wall but also wrap it around the window to meet the cabinetry,” Heather says. “ e space is a marriage of what both Richard and Brittney love.”

birminghamhomeandgarden.com78 BH&G | july.august 2022

A EDITORS’ CHOICE

Photography by GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS

TIP: Make an intentional impact with color and tile. The island and wall are even bigger standouts thanks to the calm backdrop of white.

A traditional white kitchen is certainly a safe choice when it comes to design, but infuse it with a bit of blue and some whimsy, and it goes from ordinary to outstanding. When designer Heather Steen of Steenhaus stepped in to renovate this kitchen for homeowners Brittney and Richard Calhoun, she immediately knew there would be some give and take.

KITCHENAZURE

“ e homeowners are the de nition of ‘opposites attract,’ ” says Heather. “Richard tends towards safer choices, but Brittney loves color and is willing to take risks.”

A kitchen renovation combines a appointments.paleblue-and-whitevibrantcolorewithclassic

july.august 2022 | BH&G 79 RESOURCES: Interior design: Heather Steen, Steenhaus Cabinets and hardware: Grace Fabrications Appliances: Cohens Countertops, tile, and lighting: Fixtures & Finishes Before 25 00 2ndAven ue S ou th •B irm in gham , Ala bama35233 20 5. 323.5616• fix tures an dfin i sh e s. co m

birminghamhomeandgarden.com80 BH&G | july.august 2022 “The risk of placing a bold tile and color in the kitchen paid dividends. It’s a powerful yet elegant backdrop for creating family memories.” —Heather Steen, designer

cassietonsmeireinteriors.comcassietonsmeire@yahoo.com205.999.5041cassietonsmeire Making everyday beautiful

At Robert F. Henry Tile Company, the next big idea is waiting for you. Visit their gallery and showroom to unlock your creativity and create a home that expresses your personal style. A new or updated look with tile and stone can make a world of di erence in your home.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com82 BH&G | july.august 2022 I Birmingham, Alabama Showroom: 4500 Avenue North 205.592.8615 or www.henrytile.com205.592.8625 •SHOWROOM STYLE•

“We search the world for the best products at the best values. We oﬀer those products at fair prices.”

In addition to o ering stone selections such as quartz, marble, and granite, the company also provides fabrication to customize and t your look for kitchens, baths, and more.

If you’re looking for high-end tile in Birmingham, including decorative, domestic, imported, Alabama made, and allied tile products, as well as stone surfaces, Robert F. Henry Tile is a one-stop destination. Since 1933, the company has been a leading provider of the beautiful and durable tile in Birmingham, and they have grown to include seven other locations across theEachSoutheast.location of this family-owned business has a team of tile experts ready to help you nd exactly what you’re looking for—whether you’re a homeowner, a designer, an architect, or a contractor. Robert F. Henry Tile has kept its focus strictly on ceramic tile and stone. is allows them to o er unparalleled expertise and service. “We search the world for the best products at the best values,” says vice president Fred Henry. “We o er those products at fair prices. And, we do it in a way that makes people want to return and do business with us again.”

ROBERT F. HENRY TILE

—Fred Henry, vice president

birminghamhomeandgarden.com july.august 2022 | BH&G 83 We receved nearly 40 entries for our Fresh Kitchen Contest. You voted and we shared the winners on the previous pages, but we couldn’t resist showing you more of our favorites. These kitchens o er a range of styles while displaying smart and innovative details anyone would want to aspire to. For the full catalog of entries, visit our website. MORE OF OUR FAVORITE KITCHENS (1) Designer: Anna Claire Interiors Builder: Kano Remodeling (2) Designer: Laurie Fulkerson Plan Designer: Crystal Tucker Builder: Twin Construction (3) Designer: Katrina Porter Builder: Kitchen Potential (4) Designer: Heather Steen Architect: Steenhaus 1 2 3 and 4

birminghamhomeandgarden.com84 BH&G | july.august 2022 (5) Designer: Cyndy Cantley Builder: Shearer Building Company(6) Designer: Niclole Roby Builder: Matrix Builders (7) Designer: Joanna Goodman Architect: Chris Reebals Builder: Davis Construction (8) Designer and Builder: River Brook Design and Construction 57 8 6 MORE OF OUR FAVORITE KITCHENS

R ISE TOGET HER. ROC K FO R EV ER. 45 00 5 T H AVENU E SOUT H BU ILDING G BIRMI NG HA M • 35 22 2 205. 5 92 .0202 TRI TONSTO NE .COM TritontritonstonegroupStoneGroup remotsucstcudorpgnidivorpwhilegnirevileddelellarapnuecivresexperience. R ISE TOGET HER. ROC K FO R EV ER. 45 00 5 T H AVENU E SOUT H BU ILDING G BIRMI NG HA M • 35 22 2 205. 5 92 .0202 TRI TONSTO NE .COM TritontritonstonegroupStoneGroup remotsucstcudorpgnidivorpwhilegnirevileddelellarapnuecivresexperience.INSPIRINGCREATIVITY

IG: @lesliespartydiaries

SummerFun

Tricolored Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Fresh

birminghamhomeandgarden.com86 BH&G | july.august 2022 Recipes and Photography by LESLIE BYARS REGISTER

•RECIPES• ... SPONSORED BY

Summertime is a “What can I bring?” time of year! Because I don’t want to miss a single minute by the pool, on the golf course, or in the backyard, I prefer to make cocktails and appetizers as easy and fresh as possible. at means less time in the kitchen and more time with friends and family. e Sweet Corn Salsa, Tangy Herb Ranch Dip, and Tricolored Cherry Tomato Bruschetta become even tastier over time, so feel free to make these a day ahead. Be sure to also try the Watermelon Margarita. It’s a refreshing way to make use of a large, seedless melon. And if you have never had a Kentucky Mule, it’s time to saddle up! is is a bourbon lover’s dream come true on a hot summer night. Relax and enjoy the longer days, fresh-market nds, and these easy-to-tote recipes. is is what summer is all about.

6Iceounces

2 ounces fresh lime juice

6 ears sweet fresh corn, kernels removed

1 to 2 jalapeños, seeded ½ cup ﬁnely chopped red onion ¼ cup chopped cilantro

½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon oregano ½ teaspoon chili powder Salt and pepper to taste Bring a large pot ﬁlled with water to a boil. Add corn, and cook for 5 to 10 minutes or until tender. Remove from the pot, and allow to cool.

Chop next 4 ingredients ﬁnely and uniformly (about the size of a corn kernel), and place in a medium-size bowl. Add red onion and cilantro. With a sharp knife, remove the kernels from the cob, and add to the vegetables. In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients. Pour over corn and vegetables, and toss to coat thoroughly. Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least an hour. The salsa is best made in advance and will keep for several days. Serve with tortilla chips.

MAKES 2 TO 3 DRINKS

Sweet Corn Salsa

2 ounces Cointreau (optional) Salt for the rims (optional) Garnish with a lime, nasturtium, or watermelon wedge Place ice, watermelon juice, tequila, lime juice, and, if desired, Cointreau in a martini shaker. Shake vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds. Salt the rims of the glasses, if desired, and pour mixture through the strainer of the shaker into the glasses. Garnish and serve immediately.

birminghamhomeandgarden.com88 BH&G | july.august 2022 •RECIPES•

MAKES ABOUT 5 CUPS

Tortilla

1 teaspoon sugar

Juice of one lime, plus extra slices for garnish

3¼Dressing:chipscupoliveoiltablespoonsred wine vinegar

2 ounces blanco tequila

4 green onions

1 orange bell pepper

1 red bell pepper

fresh watermelon juice (from about 1 ½ cups seedless watermelon cubes, blended and strained)

... SPONSORED BY

Watermelon Margarita

Combine all ingredients in a small jar. Shake to combine thoroughly. Adjust thickness consistency with more buttermilk if needed. Chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. This can be made a day or two in advance. Garnish and serve with assorted fresh summer vegetables.

¼ cup white balsamic vinegar

1 French baguette In a medium-sized bowl, combine tomatoes, garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine completely. Allow to sit for at least an hour either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. (I like to do it both ways, depending on if I want the tomatoes chilled.)

Tangy Herb Ranch Dip

Learn om Leslie: If there are any leftovers, which I doubt there will be, this makes a light, refreshing sauce over grilled ﬁsh or chicken.

MAKES ABOUT 4 CUPS and drizzle with olive oil. Preheat broiler in oven, and then toast bread until golden brown. Serve tomato mixture on toasted bread, and garnish with fresh basil. For an added attraction, spread a thin layer of creamy burrata on the toasted bread before adding the tomato mixture.

2 tablespoons white vinegar

1Ice½ ounces bourbon 3 ounces ginger beer ½ ounce lime juice Lime slices and fresh mint for garnish Fill a copper cup or julep cup with ice. Add bourbon, ginger beer, and lime juice. Stir to combine. Garnish with lime slices and fresh mint. BY

½ cup fresh chopped basil, plus more for garnish ¼ cup olive oil, plus extra for baguette

Dash of hot sauce

2 tablespoons fresh basil, minced

½ teaspoon paprika

1 cup mayonnaise

2 pints tricolored cherry tomatoes, quartered 2 cloves minced fresh garlic

½ teaspoon sugar Salt and pepper to taste

Before serving, slice the French baguette into ¼-inchPlaceslices.onaparchment-lined baking sheet, Tricolored Cherry Tomato Bruschetta

LeslieLikes:

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 garlic clove, minced ½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup buttermilk

Kentucky Mule MAKES 1 DRINK

Birmingham Home & Garden - July/August 2022

Articles inside

Editor’s Choice: Azure Kitchen

Third Place: Refined Rancher

First Place: Dark Knight