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Ray & Poynor is excited to announce a new division of our company— Transitional Move Experts. Life is full of transitions, and often these \ZIV[Q\QWV[ KWUM _Q\P NQVLQVO I VM_ XTIKM \W KITT PWUM 7]Z±<ZIV[Q\QWVIT 5W^M -`XMZ\[±IZM PMZM \W [QUXTQNa _PI\ KIV JM I KWUXTQKI\ML IVL [WUM\QUM[ overwhelming process. But first, aren’t all moves transitions?
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CON T EN TS JA N UA RY/ FEB R UA RY 2022 { vol. 20 no. 1 }
35 Beautiful Baths This special section showcases four inspiring baths filled with classic and contemporary styling. In addition, industry pros offer advice to help you create your own indulgent at-home spa. • Laurie Fulkerson, Twin Interiors, page 36 • Heather Steen, Steenhaus, page 40 • Catori Design House, page 44 • Lisa Flake, Caldwell Flake Interiors, page 48
Homes
52 Updated & Curated Designers Anna Still and Marguerite Johnson freshen up a historic Forest Park home to fit Anna’s young family.
60 Character Development Designer Jan Ware takes a spec home from boring to beautiful with custom touches and bold style.
Recipes
80 Winter Wellness Turn the tables on your tastebuds with these dishes that are healthy and downright delicious.
52 Living Well
Showroom Style
Style meets comfort at Le Weekend, a new women’s clothing store in English Village.
Meet the team behind Christopher Collection, Homewood’s newest interiors store and design showroom.
18 Step Into the Weekend
Gardening
24 Christopher Collection
20 Don’t Miss the Bus
Designer Spotlight
Jessica and Stephen Watts have built more than a plant business out of their converted bus—they have created a community.
Three young interior designers share their vision along with the people and experiences that inspired them.
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68 Special Section New Year, New You From learning how to eat right, take care of your skin, and manage your money, we’ve got the resources you need to start fresh.
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FROM THE EDITOR
hen I became the editor of Birmingham Home & Garden 12 years ago, I had just left a position with a national magazine. Moving to a magazine that focused primarily on one city, I was nervous that I might run out of projects to feature. I was used to having an entire country as a resource. I quickly realized that my concerns were unfounded. Birmingham has an amazing wealth of talented design professionals, and the beautiful homes and gardens they create rival any in the U.S. In fact, many of our Birmingham-based designers work with clients across the country. And our talent pool and reputation as a design hub both keep growing thanks to our many established and emerging designers, as well as new stores and showrooms that continue to open. In this issue, we celebrate all of the people who contribute their talents to our city and our homes. On page 18, you’ll meet Courtenay Pyburn Bullock and Molly Dance Murphy, young fashionistas and entrepreneurs who recently opened Le Weekend, a boutique clothing store that promises style and comfort. Get to know them and why they find themselves in good company in English Village. Page 20 introduces you to Jessica and Stephen Watts, enterprising plant enthusiasts who take their show on the road via a converted school bus. On page 24, the team at Christopher Collection, a new design store in Homewood, offers a look inside their carefully curated space. You’ll also meet a new class of enthusiastic young designers who were mentored by top talent and are now putting their own spin on things. If your 2022 resolutions involve some home improvements, you won’t want to miss our “Beautiful Baths” special section starting on page 35. You’ll find plenty of inspiration, as well as tips from the professionals, to create your own at-home escape. And speaking of resolutions, our “New Year, New You” feature (page 68) will help you reach your goals in the areas of food, health, and even money management. As we move into 2022, I look forward to continuing to share the talents, shops, and happenings in our city. There’s always something new to discover—and plenty of reasons to continue to love our magical city.
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. 16 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
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PUBLISHER / Walker Sorrell EDITOR / Cathy Still McGowin csmcgowin@pmtpublishing.com 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 / Mary Margaret Chambliss, Alice Welsh Doyle, Mary Fehr, Laurey Glenn, Grace Photography Studio, Laura Kostleny, Alison Lewis, Christiana Roussel ADVERTISING / SALES Traci Owen 205.802.6363 ext. 110 towen@pmtpublishing.com Hope Roddam 205.802.6363 ext. 114 hroddam@pmtpublishing.com DIRECTOR OF INTEGRATED MEDIA & EVENTS / Sheila Wardy ADMINISTRATION / OFFICE MANAGER Carol Ann Head ACCOUNTING / Keith Crabtree CIRCULATION / DISTRIBUTION Anita Miller Advertising Sales Office: 3324 Independence Drive Homewood, Alabama 35209 Office: 205.802.6363 / Fax: 205.802.6393 TO SUBSCRIBE OR FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR SUBSCRIPTION, CALL 1-833-454-5060 or visit birminghamhomeandgarden.com T.J. POTTS / President, PMT Publishing Inc. 3729 Cottage Hill Road, Suite H Mobile, AL 36609
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•LIVING WELL•
Birmingham is excited to have a new place to shop! Tell us about yourselves and how Le Weekend came about? Courtenay: My father owns Harrison Limited, a men’s clothing store in Mountain Brook Village. At an early age, I learned to appreciate well-tailored, thoughtful clothing. After studying fashion design at Auburn University, I moved to New York City with my husband, Zach, and worked for brands like Milly, Roxanne Assoulin, and Theory. It was then that I reconnected with Molly. She was completing a summer internship in public relations.
STEP INTO THE
WEEKEND.
Every day.
Molly Dance Murphy, Director of Operations (left) Courtenay Pyburn Bullock, Owner
Molly: After graduating from Mississippi State University, I had intended to live in New York, but God had other plans. An internship with Birmingham Home & Garden led to my three-year-long career with KC Projects, a Birmingham PR firm, where I worked with clients such as Full Moon BBQ, 1818 Farms, and Nequette Architecture & Design. I married my husband, Matthew, in July 2021. Soon after, Courtenay asked if I would be interested in being her business partner. I said yes, of course! When I was growing up, my mom owned Mustard Seeds, a retail clothing store, and I was always interested in returning to that field. Plus, I had always admired Courtenay’s creativity. What kind of outfits will customers find at Le Weekend, and where will they wear them? Courtenay: All of our pieces are transitional and buildable. A Kule T-shirt with a cashmere cable-knit Derek Lam
Le Weekend, a new women’s clothing store in English Village, promises stylish, comfortable clothes for every occasion. Meet Courtenay Pyburn Bullock and Molly Dance Murphy, friends and Birmingham natives who share the common goal of wanting to make every woman feel confident from head to toe. Interview by C A T H Y S T I L L M c G O W I N / Photography by M A R Y F E H R 18 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
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“Every piece in the store embodies the free spirit of the weekend—whether you are lounging around or enjoying lengthy dinners with loved ones. Le Weekend is a place where Mondays don’t exist. We truly have something for everyone, even if it’s just conversation.” — Courtenay Pyburn Bullock sweatsuit is perfect for croissants and coffee at Continental Bakery. Citizen jeans and a pair of Ann Mashburn buckle shoes will take you shopping through the villages in style before lunch at Chez Fon Fon. For drinks with friends at Paper Doll and a late dinner at LeFresca, you can’t go wrong with a Rhode silk skirt and a chunky Baum sweater. Evenings at home are best served with a glass of red wine and our favorite Sleeper Party Pajamas. (They’re trimmed in feathers!) How about accessories? Courtenay: We love the rule of three. By simply adding one more layer to your outfit, it allows you to showcase your personal style. It could be a belt, blazer, purse, or necklace—really anything! We have shoes, jewelry, and casual bags to help. Oh—and don’t forget a pair of Chimi shades—always! birminghamhomeandgarden.com
What inspired you to choose the the lines you carry? Courtenay: When I lived in New York, my favorite Saturday activity was stopping in all the shops along Madison Avenue. The store clerks never made me feel like I had to purchase something; I just enjoyed the unique experience and atmosphere each store offered. For Le Weekend, I wanted to bring back that feeling and create a replication of the places I loved in my hometown.
What was involved in making your store so inviting? Courtenay: It was a dream to collaborate with friend and designer Jeremy Clark (Jeremy D. Clark Studio). I want each person who walks in to feel immediately welcomed—much like you are trying on clothes in your living room with your best friends. Jeremy’s focus is residential design, which is exactly why I wanted him to transform this space into something familiar yet sophisticated.
Why English Village? English Village is really being revamped by
a new wave of entrepreneurs and businesses—Jeremy D. Clark, Sarah Stewart Consulting, The Atelier, Keystone Commons. Molly and I both live within a mile of the store, and it just felt right to create something in our own backyard. We also have amazing neighbors such as Continental Bakery, Vino, Chez Lulu, and Monkee’s that have been a staple in the village for a long time. It was the perfect concoction. 1917 Cahaba Road • 205.767.6857 • IG: @leweekendstudio
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Don’t Miss
The Bus!
For Jessica and Stephen Watts, a bus is much more than a mode of transportation. It’s an everyday business— and an ongoing adventure. Text by C H R I S T I A N A R O U S S E L / Photography by M A R Y F E H R
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here is just something special about a big bus. Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend knew it, when their band, The Who, released the song “Magic Bus” in 1968. Jessica Watts, co-owner of House Plant Collective, knows it too. After her personal jungle of houseplants began to reach maximum capacity, she and her husband, Stephen, refurbished and repurposed a bus to be a traveling retailer of all things green and leafy: fiddle-leaf fig trees, philodendrons, peace lilies, crotons, succulents, and more. What Jessica did not know at the time, however, was the power this one bus would have. Instead of being just a mobile retail outlet, it became a way to add comfort in the form of fresh greenery. But even more, that transformed bus created community in a time when life felt fractured by the uncertainty of a worldwide pandemic. Jessica will be the first to tell you that she has no professional botany training; her general knowledge and love of plants came to her from her mother and grandmother who were active gardeners. “But I did not start my own houseplant collection until about three or four years ago,” she says. “I broke my foot on my honeymoon and needed something to do while recovering.” Jessica proved quite adept at the whole houseplant thing, and her collection grew quickly. In an effort to thin the herd, she started giving away cuttings and hosting plant swaps. “Then my husband and I started brainstorming how we might turn this hobby into something more,” she says. The couple ruminated on the idea of bringing the plants to the people and started searching for a pre-owned bus they could convert into a mobile plant outpost. Jessica says, “We must have looked at more than a dozen large vehicles until we found this one on Craigslist. It’s an ideal birminghamhomeandgarden.com
CARE & TIPS
ABOVE: The Watts purchased the 1995 GMC Bluebird in 2019 for a song—$2,500 to be exact. “I know I got a good deal. I’m not sure if I could find one for that price today,” Jessica says. Stephen Steward, co-owner of Gatos and Beans, a cat-friendly café, helped with the interior buildout. The exterior is a collaboration between Hannah Mae Designs and bendyknees design co.
space for people to be able to step aboard and shop. We hosted our first bus event in July 2020 and started gaining traction all across the state.” Using the power of social media (IG: @house.plant.collective) and partnering with other area businesses, the House Plant Collective’s following grew almost faster than Audrey II from the 1986 movie Little Shop of Horrors. “By doing pop-ups at breweries and coffee shops, we placed ourselves in front of our target customer,” says Jessica. “Those are the places we hang out, so it made sense.” Jessica and Stephen have driven the bus all over the state. “We’ve traveled from Montgomery to Huntsville and Anniston
to Jacksonville,” Jessica says. “And while we haven’t yet come up with a name for the bus, we are always open to suggestions.” With the success of the mobile business, Jessica soon felt empowered to open the brick-and-mortar location she had originally wanted. Located in Avondale, the store includes a marked parking spot out front where the bus can rest between jaunts. Inside, Jessica has created what she feels like is a really green living room. When asked what makes the House Plant Collective different from a traditional nursery or garden shop, Jessica says, “I never thought I would be getting into a retail space. We’ve created a place that is not only welcoming to the houseplant customers but also to the creative community. “We partner with other small makers by showcasing their goods with our houseplants,” Jessica says. “Customers may come in for a new plant and might leave with a handmade vessel or locallycrafted candle.”
Jessica says that for most customers, it begins and ends with “What type of ‘plant parent’ are you? Do you like to hover and tend to your plants all day, every day? Or are you more of a setit-and-forget-it kind of plant owner?” Jessica and her staff are adept at helping customers select the right “plant baby” for their lifestyle. “Every plant we sell is labeled with the name and the environment in which it thrives,” she says. “We also include the price and whether the plant is toxic or not. We’re not just here to sell a plant and be done with it. We want to educate the buyer and help pick the right plant for them.”
Beyond the Bus Jessica stays true to the roots of the business, continuing to host monthly plant swaps for customers. Community is definitely at the heart of this parking lot-based event where “people can bring as many plants and cuttings that they want and just swap with others who have things to share,” she says. “Some people bring common plants while others might have some high-dollar plants. We had someone bring a Thai Constellation plant that was pretty special. Anything variegated gets a lot of attention.” birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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GOING GREEN? Try these popular varieties.
“Traditional gardening certainly took off during the pandemic, but for people with limited time, space, and resources, houseplants are the ideal fit.”
1 Hoya Carnosa Compacta The hindu rope is a popular houseplant due to its remarkable rope-like trailing vines and ease in care.
—JESSICA WATTS
2
2 Maranta Lemon Lime The prayer plant is notorious for its ability to bend and move throughout the day. It’s definitely a showstopper with the pop of green variations in the leaf veins. 3 Hoya Krimson Queen (variegated hoya) While most of the leaves are waxy green and white, this plant also flashes bits of pink in new leaves. 4 Sansevieria Cylindrica As part of the snake plant family, the cylindrica boasts itself as one of the easiest houseplants to maintain.
4
5 Watermelon Peperomia This is a trendy houseplant thanks to its attractive leaves that look like mini watermelons. 6 String of Dolphins As part of the succulent family, this plant prefers bright light and requires low watering in order to show off the perfect mini-dolphin trails.
1
7 Hoya Kentiana Known for their waxy leaves and some of the most beautiful blooms, the hoya varieties are generally lowmaintenance plants. 8 Spider Plant This is a perfect plant for a beginner. Plus it can be easily propagated to be shared with friends.
3
House Plant Collective 3621 5th Avenue South (Birmingham) 410 Queen City Avenue (Tuscaloosa) 256.365.8737 houseplantcollective.com @house.plant.collective @hpc.tuscaloosa
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Join us and grow.
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.................................................................... Become a member of the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens and help us protect, nurture, and share the wonders of this beloved community treasure. Members at the Family level and above receive: • Free or reduced admission at 340+ gardens nationwide • 10% off at participating local nurseries, garden centers & flower shops • Special access & discounts to select classes, workshops & events • A one-year subscription to Birmingham Home & Garden • 10% off at Leaf & Petal at the Gardens & The Gardens Café by Kathy G • A new member gift, annual gift plant—and more!
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bbgardens.org/membership 2612 LANE PARK ROAD | 205.414.3950
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•SHOWROOM STYLE•
STEP INSIDE ...
Christopher Collection
Christopher Collection offers luxury home goods such as upholstery, furniture, lighting, bedding, antiques, art, accessories, and rugs. Lines include Janus et Cie, Verellen, Matouk, Pom Pom linens, and Montes Dogget. Customers will find art and photography from Paige Bradley, David Yarrow, and Simon Bull, as well as lighting by Visual Comfort, Currey & Co, Jamie Young, and LowCountry Originals. “These brands are not exclusive to Birmingham, but all together, they create an elegant presentation,” says Joanna Goodman of Christopher Architecture & Interiors. Serving both the retail and design community, Christopher Collection sells directly off the floor for immediate delivery. Custom orders are also available. “We continue to keep the collection fresh, interesting, and ever evolving,” says Joanna.
Chris Reebals and Joanna Goodman in front of the showroom’s Eighteen Street entrance. christophercollection.com 205.413.8531
We recently toured Christopher Collection, Homewood’s newest interiors store and design center showroom, to get to know the team, photograph each member in their favorite space, and find out what they love most about it. Text and interviews by C A T H Y S T I L L M C G O W I N / Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P
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birminghamhomeandgarden.com
omewood’s design district is expanding thanks to Christopher Architecture & Interiors (CAI). Sited on Linden Avenue, Christopher Collection is housed in a newly-designed building that represents Birmingham’s distinctive blend of industrial and classic architecture. “By combining traditional and modern designs, we were able to break the building up into separate yet continued spaces that allow us to stay within the scale of Homewood,” says Chris Reebals, president and principal architect of CAI. One street off of Eighteenth Street, the building was carefully cited so it would naturally extend into the fold of Homewood’s main thoroughfare. Two entrances, one on each side of the building, offer visitors completely unique experiences. The Eighteenth Street side opens as an art gallery before segueing into an airy showroom that feels like a sophisticated, downtown loft. The opposite side opens to the downstairs area filled with more welcoming vignettes of home. “It’s an excellent resource for us (CAI designers) and our projects, as well as a creative outlet for the whole team,” says Joanna Goodman, vice president and director of interiors. “Birmingham has a large design presence with a vast amount of talent. We wanted to share a collection of products that inspire us and perhaps offer another layer of décor options for other designers, our clients, and friends.”
“We encourage our designers and architects to design products to add to the collection. I created a line of mirrors and coffee tables that will be available soon.” —Joanna Goodman j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 25
Social SocialMedia Media L O LGOOG CO OCL OL E L LC ET CI OT N ION
•SHOWROOM STYLE•
ISABELLE BUETTNER Interior Designer
FAVORITE THINGS: I love the antique butcher block table in the Annex. If I were building a home, I would use this as a kitchen island and then design the room around it. Other favorite pieces are the photographs by David Yarrow on the wall behind me. They are edgy, cool, risky, and fierce. PERSONAL STYLE: I believe that your home and the items that fill it should tell a story through the tiny imperfections that make their marks over time. My heart strings get pulled towards anything that has the boldness to stand alone with no formality holding it up. And while I don’t gravitate towards formal, traditional pieces, I can appreciate them.
LEAH MANN Lead Visual Designer FAVORITE THINGS: In this corner, each item is elegant enough to stand alone, yet everything works together. The Verellen sofa easily transistions to classic or contemporary. The iron cocktail table offers distinctive details. “The Girl on The Train” by David Yarrow is a collaboration of the human and animal world in a creative, authentic gesture. PERSONAL STYLE: I find inspiration in fashion, interiors, and architecture. I love the sustainable power of classic design and the simplicity of minimalism. INSPIRED BY: Powerful women such as American architect Julia Morgan and Danish architect Dorte Mandrup.
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birminghamhomeandgarden.com
SHERRI JOHNSTON Creative Director FAVORITE THINGS: I love everything about the Verellen dining banquette— from the shape, size, and hide upholstery to the upholstered legs. It’s a great brand to work with. Everything they offer is truly customizable, down to the height of the seat back. PERSONAL STYLE: I’m drawn to mid-century modern architecture and furniture. My true passion is photography. I spent a lot of time in the darkroom when I was an art major at UAB.
“I hope people come in and feel inspired. We want to be a place for them to explore new ideas and encounter pieces they have never seen before.”
AUDREY SCOTT Samford Interior Architecture Student and Retail Associate
FAVORITE THINGS: I love how the modern chaise and the 17th-century mirrors create such a beautiful juxtaposition in this corner. The soft neutral bouclé upholstery is so sharply contrasted by the loud Simon Bull painting. PERSONAL STYLE: My aesthetic centers around boldness and balance. I prefer a more eclectic approach. I love designing around statement elements and using light to create spaces that invigorate and intrigue. INSPIRED BY: Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill’s La Fábrica project near Barcelona. It is the embodiment of contrast, scale, and inventive renovation.
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 27
•DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT•
Personal style? Eleanor: I enjoy mixing modern and traditional pieces. I love color, a good stripe, and floral prints. I am obsessed with wallpaper! If I could wallpaper my entire house, I would. Virginia: I love pops of color, dark wood, antiques, and upholstered pieces in natural linen. I like mixing genres, such as a great grandmother’s table with a new white sofa. And wallpaper is always fun!
How do you approach a project for a client?
Eleanor Tolbert (left) and Virginia Grisham Sidekick: Milo
Virginia Grisham & Eleanor Tolbert
Eleanor: We love taking our client’s personal style and helping elevate it to the next level. We work hard to bring clients’ dreams for their homes into stunning or understated reality. Typically, that includes adding fresh new pieces with clean lines alongside existing furniture or antiques and then slowly adding layers of texture through lighting, artwork, drapery, and rugs. We love playing with scale, form, and texture to bring interest to each room or space. And we love working our way through an entire home, one room at a time, starting with just a single room and then moving on to the next space whenever the client is ready to proceed. Remember, design is a process, not a sprint. Virginia: I am not going to advise a client to spend money on something unless it’s important to them. If we need the budget to cover an expensive fabric that the client loves, we like balancing it out with some less expensive items that are good quality and well-priced so we stay within budget.
These young designers met early in their career paths while working at Cantley & Company. Opportunities took them in different directions, each one offering new experiences while Cannot wait to use… Chelwood Wallpaper in green from the honing their eye under some of Birmingham’s top talent. Ashdown Collection by Nina Campbell Now, the two have partnered to create Grisham Tolbert for Osborne & Little. It’s classic and Interiors, and they are on the rise. Here, they share what’s in timeless and one of our favorite colors. We also love the Cora Sofa from the store for their new business and what inspires them. Photography by M A R Y F E H R 28 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
Bunny Williams Home collection. It’s a fun piece that would add a statement to birminghamhomeandgarden.com
“Life should be a celebration and the home is often its main stage. We strive to create timeless, elegant, and pleasing designs that will make a home more inviting, more comfortable, and more nurturing.”
GOURMET & GIFT STORE
GIFT BOXES AND HOLIDAY GOODS GALORE! CHRISTMAS ETTA B - RONALDO - CHARCUTERIE SETS
any room. Mizzle by Farrow & Ball is a go-to color for us. It’s a soft green that looks great on everything from a front door to cabinets—even a whole room.
Local mentors: Cyndy Cantley, Cantley & Company Mary Evelyn Interiors Jan Ware Designs Sallie Aman with Ruby Ansley Interiors Allene Neighbors (Virginia’s aunt)
261 RELE ST. LANE PARKE ~ 205.703.9003 SHOP US ONLINE - SHIP - PICK UP IN STORE OR LET US DELIVER LOCALLY MOUNTAINBROOKOLIVE.COM
BEST ADVICE: Starting out: Virginia: Graciously accept any furniture that your family is willing to give you. Then, if you can, purchase one antique or one piece of furniture that you really love every year. Over time, you will build a collection of furnishings and family history that reflects your personal style as it evolves naturally.
For downsizing: Eleanor: Choose your most favorite furniture pieces and take those to your new home first. Then, fill in the space with other less-favorite items if necessary. Typically, once a homeowner has taken all their favorite pieces and staged them in their home, they realize what’s truly important to them and are then more willing to part with items left behind. Grisham Tolbert Interiors IG@GrishamTolbertInteriors grishamtolbert.com j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 29
1900 19th Place South Homewood, AL 35209 (205) 871-9779 triciastreasures.us
•DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT•
“I was born and raised in the South with a grandmother who had a strong appreciation for and knowledge of antiques. What I learned from her has been part of me for as long as I can remember.” Shopping Local:
Virginia McCary
Virginia McCary launched her firm in 2016 after studying business and interior design and then gaining invaluable experience working with designer Iris Thorpe. Her projects range from renovations and additions to full-scale interiors. Photography by M A R Y F E H R
Personal style: I believe homes should be curated, timeless, and inviting. I also believe in creating spaces that are equally beautiful, livable, and comfortable.
Inspired by: Travel! I love learning the history of every destination I visit through 30 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
the local architecture, culture, food, and beyond. A favorite activity is “house-stalking” through residential neighborhoods in other cities. I never mind taking the long way or the backroads that weave through streets with beautiful homes to study the architecture and design. I love a house that looks like it has been there forever.
ALKMY is one of my favorite spots. I think they do a great job of stocking unique gift items, as well as home decor and vintage pieces. If I am on the hunt, I frequent Tricia’s Treasures and The Nest. I can always count on finding something for a current project or even myself. Maison by Pam Evans and Maison de France are also at the top of the list when sourcing for client projects. For art, I usually start at Design Supply. A few other favorites include Circa Interiors & Antiques, Ex Voto Vintage, and Etc.
Favorite personal item: I am a collector, so narrowing it down is hard! If I had to choose, it would be the giltwood lantern by Formations that I found at Scott Antiques Market for far less than half price. It is currently in my dining room, but it could be used in almost any room of the house. It would make a great entryway fixture or could even hang in a master bathroom. Also, I can never resist a beautiful chest.
Favorite room to design? I have so much fun with children’s rooms. These are the places to be fun and take risks with color and pattern.
Virginia McCary Design virginiamccarydesign.com IG : @virginiamccarydesign birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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MODERN & TRADITIONAL RUGS
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TEXTILES
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ACCESSORIES
2 8 1 4 P E T T I C O AT L A N E • M O U N TA I N B R O O K V I L L A G E • ( 2 0 5 ) 8 7 7- 3 2 3 2 9:30-4:00 M-F • APP OINTMENTS RECOMMENDED • @paorientals @paosmalls birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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inspiration 2
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 on our pages and in social media. Coming November 2022.
Introducing our 2022 Inspiration Home
Welcome to
Vestavia Hills
W
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-filled 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 fireplaces, beamed ceilings in the den, and a two-car garage beneath a screened outdoor room. There’s also a full basement with bath that could serve as guest quarters or a media room. “The 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.” 32 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
Benefitting
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. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Meet the Team BUILDER: Mitch Bradford | Saunders Bradford Building Company 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. DESIGN: Adam Gerndt | 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, vernacular forms, and sensitivity to the site lead to timeless designs. 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. 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 passion. j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 33
TILE. IT’S WHAT WE DO. BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS
4500 1st Ave N
Montgomery • Huntsville
Birmingham, AL 35222
Tuscaloosa • Pensacola • Memphis
205-592-8615
Nashville • Baton Rouge
www.HenryTile.com
COLLABORATING TO CREATE THE BEAUTIFUL SPACES YOU LIVE IN EVERY DAY.
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.
TILE. IT’S WHAT WE DO. BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS
4500 1st Ave N
Montgomery • Huntsville
Birmingham, AL 35222
Tuscaloosa • Pensacola • Memphis
205-592-8615
Nashville • Baton Rouge
www.HenryTile.com
COLLABORATING TO CREATE THE BEAUTIFUL SPACES YOU LIVE IN EVERY DAY.
SPECI A L SECT ION
Baths
B E AU T I F U L
Produced by C A T H Y S T I L L M c G O W I N
Luxurious appointments, splurge-worthy stone, high-tech innovation, fresh color and pattern—these are the makings of five-star style. Create your own indulgent at-home spa by upping your design statement. Whether you are renovating, building from scratch, or just collecting ideas, you are sure to find inspiration on these pages, along with plenty of expert advice. THIS IMAGE: Architecture and design: Steenhaus Construction: Selby Davis Builder Cabinetry: Varner Woodworks Fixtures and lighting: Fixtures & Finishes Photography: Grace Photography Studio birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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The powder room doubles as a guest bath, a growing trend for homeowners that desire one-level living, according to Laurie. “Because it is seen from both the bedroom and the living areas, this space needed some personality,” she says. “The bold pattern in the wallpaper repeats the blues, grays, and golds used in other rooms throughout the house.” The antique cabinet, converted into a vanity during the original renovation, is from Scott Antiques Market.
Refreshing D e l i g h t f u l ly
en years ago, Twin Construction co-owner William Siegel and his wife, Kim, renovated a cottage in the Edgewood neighborhood of Homewood. At the time, neutral interiors were all the rage, so the couple’s bedrooms and baths were placidly serene. But over the years, as trends and tastes started to change, the Siegels craved color and pattern. For help with a new look, the couple turned to trusted designer Laurie Fulkerson of Twin Interiors for a refresh. Bringing in colorful fabrics, wallpaper, and paint, along with new surfaces in the bath, Laurie injected the rooms with cheerful pattern that still offered a soothing vibe but with a lot more interest. “William is my boss so I am pretty picky when it comes to designing for him and his family,” says Laurie. “I always have favorite selections that I have saved in my mind, and I used a lot of those throughout the home.”
Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P
In this bath, Laurie repainted the existing cabinets (from Twin Construction’s cabinet company) Mindful Gray (Sherwin-Williams). Walls and trim are Pointing by Farrow & Ball. New hardware is from Brandino Brass.
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birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Laurie’s Picks SPLURGE: Tile! With so many styles to choose from, it’s easy to make a statement on floors, walls, and backsplashes. A marble herringbone creates a classic look, while an interesting pattern brings in a contemporary element. WEEKEND UPGRADE: If tile isn’t in the budget, opt for new mirrors and lighting. Wallpaper and fresh paint always make a difference. And you can never go wrong by replacing dated hardware. HERE TO STAY: Natural stone and unlacquered brass are timeless. These appointments look equally good in kitchens and baths. FAVORITE BATH PRODUCTS: I love Aveda’s Shampure shampoo and conditioner. When I’m short on time, I like to use the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer—it’s a brush and dryer in one. One of my favorite shower mists is Eurospa Aromatics Pure ShowerMist. I’m also a big fan of Jo Malone products.
Laurie Fulkerson Twin Interiors, LLC 205.802.3920 laurie@twincompanies.com twincompanies.com j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 37
REALTOR®
205-281-8914
kdorlon@raypoynor.com
Your real estate resource expert.
E X PERT
Insights from Brandino Brass
STAYING POWER: Unlacquered brass and other living finishes, along with black and polished nickel. LOOK FOR: Contemporary designs mixed with classic finishes, as well as textured hardware. (Think knurling and coining.) CURRENTLY TRENDING: More color on cabinets! Favorites are seafoam green and cornflower blue. LIGHTING: Clients love a beautiful chandelier centered over a soaker tub. Remember to coordinate lighting styles and finishes with your hardware. KNOBS OR PULLS? Small knobs (¾-inch) offer a classic look, especially on wider drawers. The choice between pulls or knobs is a personal preference. MIXING FINISHES: Each room can be treated as its own entity. Your kitchen cabinets do not need to complement your builtin den/office cabinets. STATEMENT MAKERS: Crystal or acrylic knobs and pulls are definite favorites! Brass and crystal ring pulls are also popular. Brandino Brass 205.978.8900 or 205.617.7175 brandinobrass.com @brandinobrass
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TIP : Create contrast to show off color and pattern. A white bed and white end tables make pillow fabrics and paint colors pop.
Bedroom walls are painted Oval Room Blue (Farrow & Ball) to repeat the hallway wallpaper’s calming hue. The trio of Euro Shams, with their brush strokes of watery blues, golden yellows, and soft pinks, meets the color requirement the Siegels requested for their formerly neutral room. Laurie found the artisan fabric and had it custom-ordered in velvet. The golden-hued bolster offers a layer of texture. A subtle silver-and-cream pattern on the draperies brings in more texture. Drapery fabric: King Cotton. Art: Argent. Bed: Gabby Home. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Brandino Brass Co. offers an extensive selection of decorative hardware for doors & cabinets, exterior & interior lighting, gas lanterns, fire balls, mailboxes, gate hardware and much more! 2824 CENTRAL AVENUE SUITE 100 • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209 • 205.978.8900 BRANDINOBRASS.COM
R O o m to
Breathe Photography by L A U R E Y G L E N N
BEFORE 40 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
A set of French doors provided the perfect backdrop for the bath’s new focal point. Because the original floor plan had an excess of closets and an ill-planned use of ancillary spaces, it allowed room to widen the existing hallway and create a grand, graciously-appointed room. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
cramped labyrinth of closets, wet spaces, and storage areas was reimagined to create a grand bath with perfect proportions and elegant appointments. “While the existing bath was expansive, most of the valuable space was taken up for superfluous use,” says Montgomery designer Heather Steen, who operates Steenhaus Studio with her husband, Scott. The architecture and interiors firm worked with Selby Davis Builder to reallocate square footage and create well-connected, visually enticing, purposeful spaces. “We juxtaposed
clean and crisp walls with the wooden beams to create very distinct gateways to different areas of the bathroom,” Heather says. Now, the spaces are open and visible yet clearly defined thanks to a revised floor plan and thoughtful material choices. “As a designer I have seen my fair share of white bathrooms,” says Heather. “Don’t get me wrong—I love a beautiful white bathroom. However, in this home, we wanted to add some warmth by incorporating wood into the space. It allows the white and gray palette to present in a muted way to the user.”
TIP : Use materials to set off focal points and unite expansive spaces. Beams frame the tub, while a tile rug adds some drama.
Heather’sPicks SPLURGE: It changes for each project. There is always something that you want to be your “wow” moment. I tell my clients to make a statement where it counts and then save on the other areas. UPGRADE ON A BUDGET: Drapery! Because it’s always the last item installed, clients often cut corners here to be done with a project. But it makes such a difference to have a finished window treatment. READY TO SEE IT GO: Unrealistic design reality TV shows that give a false perspective on budget and timing for projects. CAN NEVER GO WRONG WITH: Attractive, quality lighting and great tile. FAVORITE PRODUCTS: Melissa Warnke’s “Diva” scent for Candles. Heather Steen / Steenhaus steenhaus.studio 334.652.1493 LEFT: The cerused rift oak cabinets by Varner Woodworks highlight the straight grain of the oak. “This method tones the wood down to give it a softer feel in the room,” says Heather. Using tile from Fixtures & Finishes, she created a rug design. “It draws your eye to the tub and window as you enter the room. It also breaks up the main floor to add interest.”
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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TIP : Add emphasis to the details. Heather chose black grout to put a stronger focus on the fish scale tile pattern.
E X PERT
Insights
from Robert F. Henry Tile
CREATE A WET-ROOM EFFECT: Walk-in showers with freestanding bathtubs surrounded by tile on all sides offer a dramatic look. STATEMENT MAKER: Use large-scale porcelain tiles on walls, or install a single slab of stone for a luxurious finish. COLOR: Gray-greens are trending thanks to SherwinWilliams and Benjamin Moore’s picks for 2021 Color of the Year. Earthy pinks and muted blues are also popping up. Black-andwhite tile combinations continue to have nostalgic appeal. CAN NEVER GO WRONG WITH: Any variety of white marble with interesting veining. POWDER ROOMS: Flex your creative style in this small space. Use interesting colors and shapes, along with unexpected countertop materials. PATTERN & SHAPE: Chevrons, triangles, and hexagons are carrying forward. Counter edges are being fabricated to imitate furniture-inspired curves.
2500 2nd Avenue South • Birmingham, Alabama 35233 205.323.5616 • fixturesandfinishes.com
50% OFF Installation*
TEXTURE: Undulation on tile brings dimension and interest, as do various glazing techniques for handmade appeal.
Robert F. Henry Tile Henrytile.com • 205.592.8615 IG: @robertfhenrytile Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today
LEFT: When updating this powder room, Heather Steen opted for a black-and-white color palette and unlacquered brass accents. The collection of fixtures came from different sources. “We had a mix of brands but they all worked nicely together,” Heather says.
j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 43
205-287-0202 kitchenwise.com/birmingham
Optimize the space in your kitchen, pantry, bathroom, and closet with clever storage solutions from Kitchen Wise.
*Spend a minimum of $1000 and get 50% off installation. Offer valid until 06/30/22. May not be combined with any other offer. Please mention this ad when booking.
New paint on walls and trim (White Dove, Benjamin Moore), as well as the addition of Calacatta Gold marble tile (Triton Stone), creates a crisp, clean look. The designers kept the original diamond-paned, leadedglass window beside the tub. New crystal knobs add a little sparkle to the vanity.
“A well-built house with a good design is always a wise investment. There’s no reason to rebuild something just for the sake of rebuilding.” — K risti Freeman, Catori Design House
BEFORE
The original bath enjoyed an old-school soaking tub. To update the space, the designers took out the casement and replaced the fixture with an elegant freestanding tub from Ferguson.
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birminghamhomeandgarden.com
FreshFACED Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P
hen you have beautiful architecture, it’s easy to update a space just by resurfacing,” says designer Kristi Freeman, co-owner of Catori Design House. Along with her business partner, Terra Bonner, Kristi brought a whole new look to the bath in this 27-year-old home without moving a wall or changing the floor plan. “Our clients built the house, but after so many years, some of their original choices had gone out of style,” says Kristi. “They wanted
to add updated products for a fresh look.” Aside from new surfaces, fixtures, and paint, the biggest change was the new bathtub. “Back then, the only freestanding tubs available were clawfoot tubs,” Kristi says. Working with builder JL Crosby Construction, the team demolished the existing cased tub. “We took our client down to the Ferguson showroom and had her sit in several new tubs to try them out,” Kristi says. “It had to be both pretty and comfortable.”
Kristi and Terra’s Picks IMPACTFUL UPGRADE: Lighting! It’s like the jewelry to an outfit. We chose the Talia Chandelier from Circa Lighting because of its resemblance to bath bubbles. HERE TO STAY: Brass accents. In frames or accessories such as candlesticks and trays, this classic material continues to endure. READY TO SEE IT GO: Industrial appointments. Traditional fixtures and finishes remain timeless. CAN NEVER GO WRONG WITH: Polished nickel plumbing. FAVORITE PRODUCTS: Creed perfumes and Lollia Wish bubble bath. Catori Design House catoridesignhouse.com 205.907.5499
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 45
E X PERT
Insights from VW Gallerie
STAYING POWER: Chrome and brushed nickel finishes keep a bath current. For a statement, try matte black or champagne bronze.
Creating Beautiful Spaces
Lolo French Antiques et More offers 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. 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
LIVING FINISHES: When you select a living finish such as unlacquered brass, it’s important to understand that when it’s manufactured, it is polished and shiny. Over time, the air and your cleaning products, as well as simply touching the faucet, will make it patina beautifully. FAUCETS AND HANDLES: Taller spouts allow more room for handwashing and cleaning the sink. Fixtures with softer edges are gaining momentum over angles and modern styles. GADGETS: Electric mirrors are lighted and come with Bluetooth capabilities and TV projection. Kohler’s Intelligent Toilets offer integrated cleansing functions, heated seats, a nightlight, a warm air dryer, and a deodorizer. The seat can be raised and lowered via remote. FREESTANDING OR CABINETS? A pedestal sink works best in smaller half baths or pool baths where there’s not a great need for storage.
VW Gallerie 205.831.4773 vwplumbingsupply.com @vwgallerie.com 46 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
EXPLORE THE POSSIB ILITIES. BE INSP IRED.
VW Gallerie, Birmingham’s most state of the art interactive plumbing design center, features the finest curated products from recognizable brands in the plumbing industry. It’s a short drive to one of our three convenient locations. Call and schedule your consultation appointment today, or, if you’re in the neighborhood, you are always welcome to come in and explore our design center.
BIRMINGHAM 3320 2ND AVENUE S BIRMINGHAM, AL 35222 205.324.9521
PELHAM 221 INDUSTRIAL PKWY PELHAM, AL 35124 205.663.1336
TUSCALOOSA 712 20TH AVENUE TUSCALOOSA, AL 35124 205.758.8621
MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM - 5PM • APPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED
vwplumbingsupply.com
SHELBY AMES
210.849.6293 https://shelbyamesinteriors.com @shelbyamesinteriors TEXAS | MONTANA | ALABAMA | MISSISSIPPI
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 47
THE NEW
Gold Standard Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P
TIP : Stay focused. Lisa chose acrylic accent furnishings to keep the attention on the dynamic tile floor and standout fixtures.
48 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
he opportunity to build a brand new house offers endless possibilities. Wish lists are made, and the drawing board is the imagination’s playground. When Candi and Lloyd Peeples enlisted decorator Lisa Flake and architect Carey Hollingsworth to design their new Liberty Park home, they requested a pleasing blend of tradition and contemporary appointments with a little bit of glamour thrown in. Nowhere is this more evident than in the tile choices throughout the house, especially in the main bedroom and powder bath. “The metallics definitely take the baths to a different level,” says Lisa. “Candi and I both love a little glam. We knew we wanted some modern, shiny touches.”
On wall and floor tile, the patterns and contrasting mix of materials include metals and glass which beautifully highlight the stately, natural stones. To complement the dazzling selections in the main bath, Lisa brought in a drumshaped, contemporary, mixed-metal chandelier from Hiltz-Lauber. A pair of gild-finished Hampton wall sconces by Aerin accentuate the bling in the powder room. Here, the well-dressed look is completed with a mirror trimmed in gold, along with the intricate barrel-key design on the faucet handles. Heated floors, a heated towel rack in the shower, Smart mirrors, and a Smart toilet (Fixtures & Finishes) top off wish-list items for the ultimate in style and sophistication.
Lisa’s Picks SPLURGE: Tile always makes a statement! In the main bath, we splurged on the floors (Mosaique Surface Dominion Ludlow Blue from Triton Stone). In the powder room, the tile covers every wall (Terra Bella Arrows in Calacatta Gold, also from Triton Stone). DESIGN LOVE: Upholstery that is not only functional but also visually stimulating. READY TO SEE IT GO: Shiplap. CAN NEVER GO WRONG WITH: White paint. The main bath is Vanilla Milkshake by Benjamin Moore. FAVORITE BATH PRODUCTS: I never tire of Issy Miyake parfums. In the 90s, I adored a scent called Rain. I have tried to find it or something similar for 20 years now. If anyone knows where I can get it, please contact me!
Lisa Flake Caldwell Flake Interiors 205.222.9139 caldwellflake.com Lisa designed the sink in the powder room. Working with Triton Stone Group and fabricator Epic Stone, she chose a White Thassos countertop and had it mitered to create the effect of a single, thick slab. A very slight slope in the stone leads to the slit of a drain. Builder: Slate Barganier Building birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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E X PERT
Insights from Kitchen Wise
TOSS IT: Bath cabinets tend to become a graveyard for half-used beauty and hygiene products. Prioritize using up whatever products you have already opened before buying more. Get rid of any products that have been left open for a long time or that have expired. SMART STORAGE: Keep beauty products such as cotton swabs and bath salts in clear jars or containers. Eliminate mismatched bottles or plastic bags that take up space. Kitchen Wise 205.961.4509 kitchenwise.com/birmingham
E X PERT
Insights from Triton Stone Group
MAKING A COMEBACK: Color—especially in warmer tones. Softer finishes such as antiqued, tumbled, and honed tile, as well as floral patterns, are making an entrance. Slab shower walls and full-height splashes are creating big statements. Vintage marbles in rose, green, and purple jewel tones are very current, along with bold veining patterns. And keep an eye out for square tiles. Triton Stone Group 205.592.0202 tritonstonebirmingham.com j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 51
Making everyday beautiful
cassietonsmeireinteriors.com cassietonsmeire@yahoo.com 205.999.5041
cassietonsmeire
Updated & Curated
PARTNERS IN DESIGN, ANNA STILL AND MARGUERITE JOHNSON, BLEW FRESH AIR THROUGHOUT ANNA’S HISTORIC HOME, TRANSFORMING IT INTO A LIGHT-FILLED AND STYLISH ABODE FOR HER YOUNG FAMILY. Text by A L I C E D O Y L E / Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P 52 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
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ABOVE: The graceful 1927 Tudor designed by architect Charles McCauley has a commanding presence at the end of a cul-de-sac in Forest Park. Large terra-cotta pots from Millhouse Howell add a crisp touch to the trim landscape. The original door and windowpanes received a coat of white paint, making them stand out against the red brick. LEFT: Designers Anna Still (sitting) and Marguerite Johnson of Still Johnson Interiors pose in the living room of Anna’s personal residence. The understated interiors keep the focus on original appointments such as the arched doors leading to the sunroom.
Still Johnson Interiors Interior designers and partners Anna Still and Marguerite Johnson of Still Johnson Interiors exemplify the Chinese philosophy of Yin and Yang. They each bring talents to the business that complement each other even though some of those talents are in opposition. As Anna explains, “Marguerite is a true creative and risk taker, while I am more grounded and comfortable with the analytical and logistical challenges of running a business.” Marguerite adds, “Anna is also a perfectionist and really cares what people want in their homes instead of what she thinks they should want. We tolerate each other’s weaknesses and champion our strengths.” The pair realized how compatible they were when working together at Betsy Brown for several years. At first, they worked side-by-side and then began to take on projects together. Soon, Anna thought they were ready to dive in together, and after meeting with Marguerite over coffee, Still Johnson Interiors was launched in June of 2021. Their style is modern, young, and fresh with accents of tradition. While the firm may be nascent, the talents are taking meetings with prominent local architects who know their reputations, and Betsy has handed off some projects as well. The pair uses Anna’s personal home to show off their approach to design as well as for a aboratory for trying new things. “It was a leap of faith to start our firm, and I have to pinch myself when I realize that we are well on our way,” says Anna. stilljohnson.com • IG@still.johnson
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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“I
think this house saved my marriage,” laughs Anna when talking about her 1927 Tudor home in Forest Park. “Perry and I had sold our house on 42nd Street and were living in a wreck of a rental on Conroy. Our boys were so young, and it felt so temporal. I wanted to set up a lasting family home.” Month after month, the design perfectionist could not find anything that was suitable and was feeling downright desperate. Then one day a very needy house that Anna had long admired on her neighborhood walks came on the market. It was one of those homes that only an interior designer or architect could appreciate, requiring the buyer to look beyond fluorescent lights and a tacky fruit wallpaper border in the kitchen; visible mold in the powder bath; and an enclosed sunroom with vinyl windows. “I loved the architectural details, and honestly, I didn’t want a badly renovated home that I would need to undo” says Anna. The designer enlisted the aid of architect Jimmy Laughlin who, like Anna, appreciated the home’s intrinsic beauty and potential. “When we started working on a plan, Jimmy and I were on the same page about the importance of deciding what features of the house speak to its original character and should be kept and what we could lose in order for the house to work for the way we wanted to live,” says Anna. “It you get the architecture addressed first, then ABOVE: An added box bay takes a starring role in the modern kitchen framing views of Red Mountain. The marble-topped kitchen island was designed by Jimmy Laughlin. Gold Calacatta marble is from Surface One. RIGHT: The original sunroom makes for a sunny, cheerful spot for Anna’s young boys, shot through with happy colors and a bold striped rug. The designers spray-painted the internet-ordered stools and floor lamp to replicate the colors in the accent pillows. FAR RIGHT: A storage cabinet with bins keeps the playroom neat and tidy. The orange and red painting is by 6-year-old Perry Still, Jr.
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QUIET COLORS
Just like their mentor, Betsy Brown, Anna and Marguerite prefer a more neutral palette, but they know how to make it pretty and engaging. Here are some of their tips. • Include a diversity of textures to infuse neutral rooms with personality by incorporating a mix of finishes—ones with patina, ones with some shine, and a few iron pieces, then choose fabrics with textural and visual interest. • Bring unexpected touches to every room with things such as sculptural pottery and shapely lampshades that allow the eye to bounce around the room. • Select rugs with visual interest such as ones with graphic stripes or even a more neutral one with a noticeable design. Layering rugs also adds additional visual appeal. • Add a drop of black to every room. Whether it’s something large like the kitchen windows, a bookcase, or just a pillow, black serves as a punctuation mark and connector that unites adjoining rooms.
ABOVE: A custom table by Michael Morrow in the breakfast room suits casual meals. Chairs are Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet circa 1960. LEFT: The powder bath’s dark hue strikes a dramatic statement in the small space. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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The dining room doubles as a library, which makes for interesting conversation during dinner parties. Custom étagères from Artistic Birmingham Iron hold Perry’s collection of novels and Anna’s design books. Lee dining room chairs through Circa Interiors & Antiques pair with a shiny white table from Blu Dot and a budget-friendly (custom-sized, DIY) seagrass rug from Rush House. “This is a high/low room—the pricier pieces elevate the whole,” says Anna.
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everything else follows its lead, and you will be set up for success.” While the footprint of the home remained more or less intact, the interiors received a complete overhaul. The kitchen renovation was the most dramatic—the dark, cramped space that was formely filled with dated appliances is now flooded with stylish appointments and
natural light. “I always wanted a view, and I had a vision that it could be realized in this house,” says Anna. To replace the existing tiny kitchen window—and open up the room to views—Jimmy designed a small box bay with multi-paned casement windows custom-fabricated by Bessemer Glass. The new windows match the originals, ensuring a seamless integration. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Finishing Touches
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A mass of blooms in the same palette makes easy but engaging arrangements.
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Brighten dark stairhalls by painting bannisters and rails white. A rice paper lantern strikes a contemporary (and budget-friendly) note.
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Painting mantels, the fireplace surround, trim, and walls the same color creates a modern, uniform look.
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Cabinets by Cotton Woodworks showcase minimal detailing for the contemporary kitchen. Children’s bedrooms are the perfect space to play with color and a mix of high/low finds. A vintage Kilim rug shares space with an Ikea bed.
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The view continues on an elevated outdoor deck and entertaining area that flows from the interiors. The kitchen’s existing butler’s pantry was removed, allowing room for a more functional space. Tile floors were replaced with wood to match the rest of the home. Every bathroom was renovated with smart, respectful choices for the birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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Minimal layers of black and white strike a symphony in the main bedroom. A striped vintage rug from Paige Albright Orientals plays well with the artwork by Kate Roebuck. The custom headboard is by Gary Childers. Anna found the midcentury bench on Chairish.
Fresh Looks FOR HISTORIC HOMES Anna and Marguerite shake up the interiors of a 1927 house with custom pieces, white paint, and carefully selected details that allow it to shine.
If you are living in a historic home with authenticity at every turn, Anna and Marguerite believe that you should invest in authentic décor. “Don’t feel like you have to get everything at once like so many young people think they should,” the designers advise. “Take your time and don’t settle on a placeholder piece. It’s better to have some emptiness than settling for something ho-hum,” says Marguerite. “And if you have young children, you need some open spaces for them to run around,” adds Anna. To give her Tudor a more modern attitude, the designers chose some edgier pieces. “We didn’t want anything to feel predictable, and we wanted the rooms to be dynamic and a bit quirky,” says Anna. “And don’t be afraid of some nicks or stains—they show life. If you live in an old that has seen a long life, you should embrace imperfections.” The duo’s curated mix of black accents, graphic fabrics, iron bookcases, stainless steel countertops, and organic pottery firmly plants this home in the 21st century.
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“Be patient in your search for things that speak to you. If you buy pieces you love, you will always find a home for them.” —Marguerite Johnson
traditionally small spaces of the era. In the sunroom, original vinyl windows that took away from the beauty of the façade were sent packing and replaced with beautiful, custom, multipaned steel windows. Central air-conditioning was added, making the room a perfect spot for a playroom for Anna and Perry’s two young sons. “The playroom is open and close enough to feel like we are all together, but it has a separate, more colorful attitude than the main living spaces,” birminghamhomeandgarden.com
says Anna of the boy’s hideaway. As far as the décor, the heavy window treatments also exited the stage, allowing the existing architecture to shine. Walls, trim, and the fireplace surround received a fresh coat of white paint. Anna commissioned Grant Trick to create the simple, white linen Roman shades throughout the house—something that softens the rooms and adds a finished look without swaths of fabric. “Historic homes have an innate character that can’t be duplicated, but the updates we made
to this house make it work for modern family life,” says Anna. The house also works as a studio for the duo. They use rooms to create vignettes, try out design combinations, and practice floral arrangements— something Marguerite is particually fond of as she prefers cut flowers and natural greenery over anything over-arranged. “I love that Marguerite pushes for the avant-garde when I would make a more conservative choice,” Anna says. “And I’m always happy she does.” j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 59
TIP : Lay low: A chaise sits in front of floor-to-ceiling windows. Because it doesn’t have a high back, it leaves the room open to views.
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Character
DEVELOPMENT WITH A LITTLE COLOR AND A LOT OF BOLD CHOICES, DESIGNER JAN WARE ADDS CUSTOM TOUCHES TO NEW CONSTRUCTION, TAKING IT FROM SPEC TO SPECTACULAR. Text by L A U R A K O S T E L N Y / Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P
Jan converted the home’s designated dining room into a sitting room because of its proximity to the wine cellar. Now the owners use this space for entertaining. The designer added drama and depth with wainscoting and a custom blue color on the walls that matches the Hermès fabric on the bolster and dining chairs. Other rooms are painted Snowbound (Sherwin-Williams). The settee and sofa, covered in outdoor fabric and performance velvet, are by Jan.
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TIP : inding a home with instant character usually means taking on a custom build or buying an older, updated home imbued with layers of history and patina. And finding that home in the neighborhood you want to live in can be as challenging as uncovering the proverbial needle in a haystack. Such was the case for these longtime, Atlanta-based clients of interior designer Jan Ware. “My friend and her husband had been wanting to build a house in Buckhead for years,” Jan says. But when a spec home became available on a desirable street, the couple nixed the idea of starting from scratch and decided to massage the finishes to suit themselves and their four sons. “The house was still in the very early stages of construction,” Jan says of the cottage-style plan designed by Amanda Orr Architects. Fortunately, that gave the couple plenty of time to step in and add their own touches. It also helped that
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Don’t overdo it. In the entry, furnishings and accessories show restraint. “Each element works together but gets noticed independently,” says Jan.
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The steel-framed front door opens to the entry where artwork by Michele James, a vellum console table, and an antique plaster bust foreshadow the interesting mélange of items throughout the house.
ABOVE: Every hour is happy at the built-in bar, which features custom black-plaster walls, sleek black cabinetry, and brass appointments, including the brass-wrapped shelf and gleaming hardware. LEFT: Warren Platner-style, Italian chairs pair with a tulip table in the light-and-bright, eat-in breakfast spot overlooking the covered porch and pool. FAR LEFT: The sitting room’s walls perfectly complement “Fluttering” by artist Yury Darashkevich.
“Beautiful indoor-outdoor textiles and high-performance fabrics mean you don’t have to compromise your vision. Even in a house full of boys, everything stays crisp.” —Designer Jan Ware
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ABOVE: Natural materials, such as the cedar beams, white oak shelving, live-edge sofa table, and polished wood bowl by Moulthrop Studios, bring the outdoors in. A seagrass rug underfoot grounds an assembly of brushed cotton and tweed upholstery—all performance fabrics. LEFT: Silver, gray, and white accents create a sublime scene in the master bedroom.
Jan was willing to make the trek down I-20 from her Birmingham headquarters. Still in the framing stages with David Siegel Design and Construction, the house was set to take on the classic, cottage architecture exhibited by the other homes on the street, but the owners wanted to move it in a more contemporary direction. With a few 64 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
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introducing... Clever Haven
a new collection for the home by Jan Ware
Designer Jan Ware is commited to turning homes into havens—those personal, private sanctuaries where owners can find respite yet also graciously welcome friends and family. She knows that it’s the curated mix of antiques, one-of-a-kind accessories, and classic comforts that truly bring warmth to a home. With Clever Haven, her new homes line, Jan’s favorite things can now become yours.
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TIP : Bridge indoors and out by introducing organic materials. A liveedge sofa table, along with natural wood accents and accessories, underscores the west coast vibe.
smart tweaks, Jan pushed the structure across the line by adding some striking appointments and dramatic finishes to create a California contemporary feel while still allowing the house to harmonize with its neighbors. Architecturally, the designer introduced custom floor-to-ceiling, steel windows and doors across the front and rear of the house to open it up to the outdoors. She withheld ornate mouldings, opting instead for wide casings. Sheetrocked walls became canvases for color and drama. Jan also wasn’t shy about swapping rooms around. For instance, the dining birminghamhomeandgarden.com
1. C andles create a tranformative experience. Try the Cereria Molla Bois de Santal 4 Wick Candle. It’s spicy, earthy, and sensual with a hint of patchouli and vanilla.
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2. One-of-a-kind finds such as this antique Louis Philippe Commode with black marble top create storied rooms with individual style. 3. This rattan mirror is equally at home at the lake or the beach. Try a pair above bedside tables for extra punch. 4. Vintage European bike tags offer color and invoke curiosity. 5. An finial-shaped sculpture (or two or three) is always a statement maker on tabletops or mantels. The top of this 10-inch tall onyx piece lifts off so it can double as a container. To inquire and to see more of the Clever Haven collection, CleverHaven.com, IG: Cleverhaven. Jan Ware Designs: Janwaredesigns.com; IG: janwaredesigns
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ABOVE: The dining room houses a live-edge table with iron base. Chairs are bleached oak frames with brass detailing. The leather chandelier was handmade by women artisans in Africa. Lacquered vintage chests inset with brass flank the dining room window. Italian art deco mirrors and matching lamps put the spotlight on works by Arthur Price. LEFT: The tub enjoys sweeping views.
room was much better suited as a sitting room thanks to its adjacency to the glasspaned wine cellar. “My clients host a lot of events, so I really concentrated on how all the rooms were going to flow when they entertained,” says Jan. With the exchange, the formal living room became the dining room, a welcoming space just inside the entry. Certain upholstered items offer transitional style while other pieces, such as the dining chairs and tables, lean midcentury modern. Contrasts and black accents play to the edgy look, giving the interiors depth while also emphasizing the gleam of metallic accents in the light fixtures, art, accessories, and furniture. As Jan explains, it’s that level of attention to every detail that made this spec house feel extra special. 66 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
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TIP : Mixed Metals: Jan created a jewel box-like powder room by hanging a dreamy, abstract wallpaper with the slightest silvery shimmer. Brass accents add even more shine.
“We didn’t want to overwhelm any space. We wanted to stay simple and take an intentional, mimimalistic approach.” — Designer Jan Ware
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SPECIAL SECTION
new you
NEW YEAR Every new year, we resolve to put our bad habits behind us and start fresh. More often than not, these resolutions involve our health. But the volume of information (and misinformation) on how to improve your nutrition can be daunting to sift through. So we asked the experts to help out. Join us as we gain valuable insights on food, health, skin care—and even money management.
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“Food should always be enjoyable. Deprivation is never the solution for achieving optimum health.” —Andrea Kirkland
HEALTHY COOKING with Andrea Kirkland Instead of looking at food as an enemy, learn how to improve your nutritional intake and cooking skills for a sustainable lifestyle change. BY CAROL ANN HEAD / PHOTO BY SUNNY NGUYEN
Whether you’re seeking to expand your contextual skills in the kitchen because of a new diagnosis or simply to improve your current cooking knowledge and recipe repertoire, Andrea Kirkland can help. Registered dietician, content creator, and owner and founder of Culinary Med Ed, Andrea has a
mission to help those living with chronic conditions discover delicious cooking solutions that will bring joy to their mealtimes. We asked Andrea to tell us about culinary medicine—a relatively new field in nutrition—and to share some of her tips, tricks, and philosophies when it comes to food and cooking. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
•NEW YEAR NEW YOU•
What is culinary medicine, and how did you find your way into it? There’s no formal definition for culinary medicine because it’s a relatively new practice. But I like to tell people that it integrates education about food selection, meal planning, and meal preparation into patient treatment plans to empower them to follow their special diets so food can do its part in improving their health. It also takes into account patients’ personal needs while offering practical, everyday advice for sustainable behavior modification.
What is a common misperception people have about “healthy” eating? People often think that the words healthy and delicious can’t coexist. The truth is that when you know how to combine specific ingredients with specific techniques that mutually benefit each other, the results can taste pretty amazing! Take pineapple, for example. When it’s roasted, its natural sugars caramelize, producing so much sweetness and depth of flavor that it can then be used as the key ingredient in a fresh salsa to dress up lean chicken or fish.
Kitchen Essentials Without a doubt, a handheld Microplane zester is a must. It makes quick work out of removing the zest from lemons, limes, and oranges. I often stir that zest into homemade salad dressings, marinades, rubs, and roasted or grilled vegetables. A little zest adds so much aroma and zing to foods that you may not even need to use a saltshaker at the table.
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Walnut-Rosemary Crusted Salmon Ingredients 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 clove garlic, minced ¼ teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary ½ teaspoon honey, strained or extracted ½ teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper 3 tablespoons Panko bread crumbs 3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 (1 pound) farmed Atlantic salmon Butter cooking spray
Is cooking at home really better for you? Yes! Eating homecooked meals helps you incorporate more nutrient-dense, health-boosting fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Plus it gives you control over the amount of salt, fat, and sugar you consume, which are often more abundant in convenience items and foods served at restaurants. Sticking to your healthy diet when eating out isn’t impossible, though. The only catch is that you must be more selective about where you dine and the foods you order.
Chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish Directions Preheat oven to 425° F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine mustard, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, rosemary, honey, salt and crushed red pepper in a small bowl. Combine Panko, walnuts, and oil in another small bowl. Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the mustard mixture over the fish, and sprinkle with the Panko mixture, pressing to adhere. Lightly coat with cooking spray. Bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 8 to 12 minutes, depending on thickness. Sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges, if desired. Nutrition Facts Serving size: 3 ounces Per serving: 222 calories; protein 24g; carbohydrates 4g; sugars 1g; fat 12g; saturated fat 2g; cholesterol 62mg; sodium 256mg. Image courtesy of Culinary Med Ed
Quick dinner idea? Sheet pan dinners are in my regular rotation. The prep and cleanup are easy. There’s an endless combo of ingredients I use to keep it interesting. My favorite combines a Walnut-Rosemary Crusted Salmon recipe with fresh asparagus or green beans. Andrea C Kirkland, MS, RD, Owner & Founder of Culinary Med Ed akirkland@culinarymeded.com culinarymeded.com IG:@culinarymeded FB:@Culinary Med Ed birminghamhomeandgarden.com
DESIGN AND BUILD YOUR DREAM BACKYARD! Building a swimming pool is one of the best ways to bring family and friends together. It provides a relaxing setting for loved ones to disconnect from the world around us and reconnect with one another. It is an addition that will provide a lifetime of happiness. We want to have the opportunity to be a part of the next step in your journey to creating your dream backyard. We understand that most people have never built a pool and will have a number of questions along the way. Please do not hesitate to contact us to learn more. We are here to serve you and look forward to helping you turn your dream into a reality!
300A APPLEGATE PKWY, PELHAM, AL 35124 205 358-3736 PREMIERPOOLSANDSPAS.COM
•NEW YEAR NEW YOU•
INTUITIVE EATING with Lori Ennis Break the diet cycle by learning how to be mindful of hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues. It’s possible to reject diet mentality and food rules and simply be kind to your body. BY CAROL ANN HEAD
You’ve probably heard that diets, in fact, often do more harm than good. Not only do people tend to regain lost weight, but they can experience significant psychological and emotional fallout from
the weight fluctuations that come with yo-yo dieting. Lori Ennis is a registered dietitian, yoga instructor, and owner of Food4Thought, a nutrition counseling
“The intention of intuitive eating is to normalize eating and cultivate a peaceful relationship between food, mind, and body.” —Lori Ennis
Cook Well. Eat Well. Live Well. Andrea Kirkland teaches cooking classes at the Samford Wellness Kitchen. Open to the Birmingham community and run by Samford’s Department of Nutrition and Dietetics in the School of Public Health, the kitchen offers participants opportunities to learn from registered dietitians and chefs, garnering skills and knowledge that will help them prepare healthy and delicious meals. Classes take place in the College of Health Science’s Food Production Labs, which were formerly the Southern Living Test Kitchens. A participant notebook with all recipes and nutrition information is provided for reference. For more information: Wellness Kitchen Director Clara Darling cdarling@samford.edu 205-726-2930 practice specializing in intuitive eating. The mission of Food4Thought is to change the conversation to focus on the “can” instead of the “can’t” and offer guidance that will bring a greater understanding of the connection between your mind, your body, and your relationship with food.
What is intuitive eating, and why should we do it? First and foremost, intuitive eating (IE) is not a diet. Unlike dieting, which tends to be 72 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
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We are highlighting a few treatments that will help you look and feel your best for 2022! VIVACÈ: Look 4-7 years younger after a series of 3 Vivacè treatments. It treats scars, wrinkles and fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and other signs of sun damage, aging, or trauma by drastically smoothing and tightening the skin. The Vivacè Experience is one of the most requested and performed procedures at our practice.
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Give us a call today or visit our website to book your appointment with us! Instagram: @gunndermatology Website: gunndermatology.com Phone: 205-415-7536 To Book an Appointment call 205-415-7536 or visit our website gunndermatology.com
•NEW YEAR NEW YOU• about restricting foods and trying to override our bodies’ instincts, IE is about self-compassion and trusting our bodies much like we did when we were children. We are born knowing to eat when we are hungry and to stop when we are full, but our culture and learned behaviors distort these cues. There is a profound amount of research showing the act of dieting not only does not work long term but can cause biological and psychological harm, increasing the risk of eating disorders and weight stigma. The process of learning how to intuitively eat helps unravel the diet mentality and negative thoughts about the body leading to healthy behavior changes that are sustainable.
Does the time of day you eat really matter? Prescribed diets, even those that claim they are “non-diets”, tend to focus a lot on the timing of meals. The clock becomes the external parameter that you use to control your food intake instead of allowing your body to be your guide for hunger and fullness. All human bodies generally need to eat within the first few hours of waking up and then every 2-4 hours. However, there are a lot of things that can interrupt, disrupt, and disconnect you from your hunger cues.
What’s the best way to be successful about changing your eating behaviors? Patience and self-compassion, hands down! Most of us live in a plugged-in, fast-paced world with an expectation that things happen quickly. To begin a journey to healing and cultivating your relationship with food, you have to accept that changing a lifetime of learned behavior will take time. It is important that you be kind to yourself as you move through the process of rediscovering how to trust that your body will guide your eating behaviors. 74 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
Are there really “good” and “bad” foods? Once you have a “don’t eat” sign on a food, you will only want it more. One principle of intuitive eating is making peace with food. This means giving yourself permission to eat with no judgment. There is no “good” food or “bad” food. I’m sure a lot of people may read that sentence and shudder, but the truth is that finding peace with what you perceive to be your “bad” food will end its power over you. While all foods are not nutritionally equivalent, you can learn to make them emotionally equivalent. You do not have to feel guilty or bad about eating certain foods.
What is a nutrition myth you love to bust? Many people believe the myth that if they allow themselves to eat anything they want, they are certain to overeat. Our brains drive our behaviors, including eating. The development of the human brain has a lot to do with how we decide what to eat and how much to eat. Our brains have the instinct to survive, the ability to have feelings, and the mechanism to put thoughts and feelings into words. Intuitive eating focuses on a combination of instinct, emotion, and thought. If you truly have made all foods emotionally equivalent, you won’t experience feelings of deprivation that come with restricting certain foods. Your instincts will tell you when you are hungry or full, you will know intuitively what tastes good, and you’ll use the rational part of your brain to comfort any fears you may have about eating. By practicing intuitive eating, all foods will become part of your eating life. Lori R. Ennis, MS, RDN, Owner of Food4Thought loriennisrdn@gmail.com, loriennis.com
Your Best Face Forward BY ALISON LEWIS AND DR. SARAH SAWYER PHOTO BY DALEY SNELL
Dr. Sarah Sawyer is owner and president of Dermatology & Laser of Alabama. She is a board-certified dermatologic surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. and anti-aging. Here are her tips for beautiful skin at any age. How young is too young for face products? Until kids hit puberty, don’t worry about any products except sunscreen. Use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sunscreens for babies and young children. Blue Lizard Baby and Aveeno Baby sunscreen stick are good options. Once puberty hits, it may be necessary to birminghamhomeandgarden.com
use acne products. Try Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash with a Clarisonic brush for early blackheads and whiteheads. If pink acne bumps arise, use a diluted benzoyl peroxide or a prescription product.
What do you recommend for skin care regimens as you age? Many choices actually reverse gene expression to that of younger skin cells. This includes intense pulsed light, retinoids, and TNS growth factor serums. In your 30s: Try a mild salicylic acid if acne prone. Use a Vitamin C product, a growth factor product, bleaching agents, and retinoids as you reach mid to late 30’s. In your late 30s/early 40s: Use Vitamin C, growth factors, and retinoids. Hydroquinone (the world’s most popular bleaching agent) should only be used a few months per year, not year-round. Retinoids should be matched to the person/skin type. In your 50s: Reduce the use of retinoids and hydroquinone as skin becomes more sensitive. Maintain Vitamin C and other antioxidants, as well as growth factor serum. A less aggressive skin brightener should be used full time. I recommend Skin Medica products.
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What procedures do you recommend as the skin ages? In your 30s: Try intense, pulsed light; light doses of Botox; fillers for particular skin conditions; and light resurfacing such as Clear and Brilliant. In your 40s: Try the resurfacing or intense pulsed light and/or Botox. By late 40s, try a deep volume restoration such as Sculptra or Voluma, or try tissue tightening with Ulthera or Exilis. In your 50s: Try tissue tightening plus resurfacing or intense, pulsed light. Add light doses of Botox. Dermatology & Laser of Alabama Mountain Brook • 205.870.3303 birminghamskin.com j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 75
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•NEW YEAR NEW YOU• habits. For example, Lauren says she is a “sad spender,” which means when she is sad, she has a tendency to spend money. Knowing behaviors like this can be very helpful as you are develop financial health.
Is The Wealth Edit separate from HighTower Somerset? How does it work? While The
Emily Lassiter (left) and Lauren Pearson
Wealthy and Wise PHOTO BY MARY MARGARET CHAMBLISS
Get financially fit with Emily Lassiter and Lauren Pearson, financial planners and founders of The Wealth Edit—a fun (Yes, fun!) way for women to learn about money management through courses, content, and community. You are both financial planners with HighTower Somerset. What do you do for them? And who do you serve? Our practice, Somerset, is a full-service wealth management firm. That means we do complex financial planning, investment management, portfolio construction, 76 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
and asset allocation, in addition to financial coaching. Financial planning is the framework for financial health; asset allocation is how we structure the investments in your portfolio; portfolio construction is how we select the investments; and financial coaching gets to the behavior behind spending
Wealth Edit is wholly separate from Somerset, the best practices we share through The Wealth Edit come from our private practice. We have seen trends among women and their financial trajectories, and we have studied these trends over time to create Glidepaths (see more about Glidepaths on the following page), which is our name to describe the financial trajectories we see women typically walk through during their lifetimes. At Somerset, we do complex planning and have a very small number of clients. The Wealth Edit is a comprehensive toolkit to become, as we like to say, “Good with Money.” But it doesn’t offer individual financial advice like Somerset does.
Most financial advisors require a pretty good nest egg for you to work with them. Is this true for The Wealth Edit? At HighTower Somerset, we do have a minimum for our current client base. But The Wealth Edit is a place for any woman to come and connect with other women around issues of financial health, entrepreneurship, and family. Often, women who join The Wealth Edit have a financial advisor already but want to connect with other like-minded women. There is no asset requirement to join.
You have a passion for helping women. Why? Do you only serve women? We both have a heart for serving women because women are largely underserved by the financial birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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•NEW YEAR NEW YOU• services industry. It was built for men by men, and it’s like fitting a round peg in a square hole. Adequately serving women through Somerset or The Wealth Edit involves a complete overhaul in the way you think about serving families. We love creating a place where families feel comfortable. We do intentionally try to serve women, but we have an equal amount of male clients at Somerset.
and Money,” where we teach participants how to be more mindful about personal finance. This is especially helpful around the holidays when we all get the urge to spend excessively. We also offer pop-ups and meet and greets. And in addition to our content—which is educational, informative, and fun— we are so proud of the relationships built as a part of this community.
What are some of the main reasons people come to you for help through The Wealth Edit? And what are some first questions they have about money? Most women who come to
What are WealthPods, a Slack channel, and wealth circles? These are all benefits if someone joins, but what are they really getting?
The Wealth Edit are coming for either content or connection—or both. Women want to know if they are going to be okay financially, but often the first thing we hear is a statement rather than a question: “I don’t know anything about money!” This is why we built The Wealth Edit. Women make financial decisions all the time. For example, when you hire an interior designer, that’s a financial decision that may be thousands of dollars.
Your website and IG actually make money management look like a lot of fun. Tell us a little about how you came up with Glidepaths—and explain what they are. Are they based on a psychological/personality test? Do I have to join if I just want to take the test on your site? We really do think money can be fun! Through dozens of roundtable discussions in 2019—and by working with women for over 15 years—we were able to identify financial trajectories which are common paths women take throughout their lifetime. We wanted to make it fun, so the quiz is like your financial personality. Go take the quiz! We think it will tell you a lot about yourself. 78 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
smart moves to make now. 1. Figure out how much you spend each month. 2. Begin working towards maximizing your retirement savings. 3. Check your bank account/ credit card/Paypal account for any unused subscriptions or memberships, and delete the ones you do not use. 4. Double-check that you have named beneficiaries on your retirement accounts. 5. Join The Wealth Edit!
So this is a club where you actually hang out with other members? How does that work? It is community over content for sure. Women learn best through the sharing of stories and ideas, so most of our content is live. This gives you the opportunity to connect with like-minded women. Not only do we connect you through your Glidepath, but we offer Wealth Edit Wednesdays featuring some truly talented women who are making a difference in their chosen fields. Right now, we’re running a six-week series called “Mindfulness
All of these are various ways you can connect once you are a member of The Wealth Edit. We know women are busy, especially in middle age, so there are opportunities to meaningfully connect through The Wealth Edit. We’ll never waste a member’s time; all of our offerings are meaningful.
In addition to money management, you do some fun events. Tell us about the social side of things. Through Somerset, we manage money and have live events for our clients. Through The Wealth Edit, we have pop-ups all over the Southeast. We have popped up in Birmingham, Atlanta, Charleston, and New Orleans. We are here to prove that talking about money to become good with money does not have to be boring. We’re having the time of our lives.
How many members are in The Wealth Edit? We have right at 200 members, and we are growing. We also have gift cards available so you can join or buy a membership for your friend or your daughter. It’s the perfect gift for the girl who has everything—because being financially savvy is a gift for life. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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•RECIPES•
wellness WINTER
Recipes and Photography by L E S L I E B YA R S R E G I S T E R IG: @lesliespartydiaries
By the time January rolls around, I am ready for a fresh start. I’ve eaten everything I can get my hands on during the holidays, so I start to crave healthier foods and anything green. Living next door to a well-stocked grocery store for the last year has made me realize how many vegetables I rarely cook. These colorful, fast, and flavorful recipes are helping me change that. In the steak salad, I prefer to use a New York strip because it doesn’t need to marinate all day—and it tastes pretty darn good! The sesame salmon and veggies all cook on one baking sheet and are ready in about 15 minutes. I also threw in a warm, comforting tomato soup that starts with canned tomatoes and is ready in under an hour. So let’s branch out, get back in the kitchen, and start a healthy new year together. We can do it! 80 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Comforting Creamy Tomato Soup SERVES 4 TO 6
1 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 4 garlic cloves, chopped 2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes in their juice ½ cup water ½ cup whipping cream
Fennel-AppleCelery Slaw SERVES 8
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste Freshly ground black pepper ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 3 large fennel bulbs, thinly sliced 2 Granny Smith apples, halved and cored, thinly sliced 3 celery stalks, thinly sliced ¼ cup fennel fronds ½ cup toasted walnuts ½ cup Parmesan, shaved with a vegetable peeler Celery leaves for garnish
Fresh basil leaves (about 10 to 12) 1 tablespoon sugar ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes ¼ teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon celery seeds Salt and pepper to taste French Bread Croutons (recipe below)
In a Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil. Add the onion and garlic, and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes with their juices and the next 7 ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the tomatoes. Remove from the heat, and allow soup to cool for a few minutes. In a blender in batches, puree until smooth. Return the soup to a San Marzano whole clean pot, and rewarm if needed. Ladle into bowls, and serve with tomatoes are French Bread Croutons. a must!
Leslie Likes:
French Bread Croutons: Cube several slices of French bread into ½-inch pieces; set aside. In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until it begins to brown. Scrape butter from the skillet, and place in a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, and add the diced bread, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly browned. Remove from the heat, and stir in the browned butter.
“Instead of grilled cheese, this healthy slaw makes the perfect pairing for the tomato soup—with the added benefit of some crunch.”
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in oil, continuously whisking, until dressing is emulsified. Taste and add more lemon juice or salt if needed. In a large bowl, toss the dressing with fennel, apple, and celery. Fold in fennel fronds and walnuts. Top with Parmesan and celery leaves.
Learn from Leslie: Dressing
can be made the day before serving. Store in the refrigerator. Toss with salad ingredients up to 1 hour before serving.
Fennel Facts: If you have never worked with fennel before, here are a few helpful preparation tips. Look for smaller bulbs. They will be more tender than the larger bulbs. Remove the fronds (dill-looking feathery part) and stalks. (Reserve the fronds for later use in the recipe.) Trim off the bottom of the bulb with a sharp knife. Then cut the bulb in half lengthwise. Remove the triangular-shaped core at the bottom of each half of the bulb. Discard any discolored outer pieces, and thinly slice the bulb horizontally. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2 | BH&G 81
Sesame Glazed Salmon with Baby Broccoli, Carrots, and Edamame SERVES 4
New York Strip Salad SERVES 2 TO 3
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon Montreal Steak Seasoning Salt and pepper to taste 1 (16-ounce) Prime New York strip steak 8 to 10 cups chopped Romaine hearts 4 ears corn, cooked and cut off the cob 2 avocados, sliced 1 cup grape tomatoes, cut in half 1 bunch green onions, sliced Pickled Red Onions (recipe below) Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing (recipe below)
Combine 1 tablespoon olive oil and next 3 ingredients in a shallow dish. Place steak into marinade, and allow steak to come to room temperature, about 1 to 2 hours. Preheat oven to 400°. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet to medium-high. Pat steak dry with a paper towel, and sear for a few minutes on each side. Place skillet into preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until medium-rare to medium doneness. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. On a dinner-size plate, arrange lettuce, corn, avocados, tomatoes, green onions, and Pickled Red Onions. Serve with Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing.
2 tablespoons Sriracha chili sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 teaspoon honey 4 salmon fillets 2 to 3 bunches baby broccoli, ends trimmed and any leaves removed 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into ribbons with a peeler Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Frozen Edamame shelled beans (cooked according to package instructions) Lime wedges Preheat oven to 400°. In a shallow dish, mix together chili sauce and next 4 ingredients. Lay the salmon fillets in the marinade, skin-side up, and set aside for 15 minutes. Place broccoli and carrots on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with a generous amount of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Using your hands, toss to coat completely, and spread in an even layer, leaving room for the salmon in the middle. Place salmon fillets skin-side down; sprinkle salmon with sesame seeds, and roast in the oven for 15 minutes. Serve with warm Edamame beans and lime wedges.
Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing MAKES ABOUT 2 CUPS
1 large bunch cilantro ½ cup plain whole milk yogurt 1 garlic clove Juice of 2 limes
1 teaspoon honey ½ teaspoon kosher salt ¼ cup olive oil 1 jalapeño, seeded
Combine all ingredients into a food processor. Pulse until smooth. Adjust salt to taste, if desired. The dressing will keep up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Pickled Red Onions MAKES 2 CUPS
Learn from Leslie:
For a quick and easy way to cook corn on the cob, place ears in a gallon-size, zip-top plastic bag; seal, and microwave 1 ½ minutes per ear.
82 BH&G | j a n u a r y. f e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2
1 medium onion, thinly sliced ½ cup apple cider vinegar 1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon sugar 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
Stir together all ingredients in a medium bowl. Place in a pint jar, and cover. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours. The pickles will keep up to 2 weeks. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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