before & after
SUMMER DECORATING
AWARD-WINNING
RENOVATIONS
FRESH IDEAS FOR
Blue + White
LIVEN UP YOUR
Outdoor Living Space
IDEAS YOU CAN USE
A STUNNING NEW HOME IN
EASY
Weekend Shoal Creek Makeovers
4 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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Wesley Hall Room Setting Start your room off with a custom sofa from the Wesley Hall Signature Elements collection. Choose your base, arms and back styles. You can make any statement with your upholstery selection from timeless traditional to sleek metropolitan to family-room casual. The Miriam Chair, window adjacent, boasts timeless style and remains a favorite option for living rooms, foyers, libraries and more. Featured here in Lofton Julep, a lovely chenille with velvet stripe, it is also available in a variety of decorative fabrics and leather finishes. Lastly are a pair of matching Mallory Chairs in Array Multi. Because of the countless hours we spend in the selection and correlation process, you can make your fabric choices quickly and with confidence they will be the perfect complement to fashion-forward upholstery design.
Your Style. Your Budget. Our Expertise.
2200 2ND AVE S | BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 205.322.1687 | BIRMINGHAMWHOLESALE.COM
Imagine the Possibilities.
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homes
50
Inspiration Home 2021
Check in for an update on our progress. We’re moving along!
52
Fresh Start
An empty nester couple enjoys the next phase of life in a Shoal Creek home that feels like a year-round vacation retreat.
60
Head Turner
Interior designer Anne Turner Carroll collaborates with residential designer Richard Long to bring a 1970s Vestavia home from drab to dazzling. Color and creative appointments abound.
68
Embracing Change
downsize results in a customized home that makes use of every square inch.
60
CON T EN TS M AY/J U N E 2021 { vol. 19 no. 3 }
gardens
14
First Impression
Landscape designer Todd Dorlon revitalizes a ho-hum front yard
eye-catching parking pad.
18
The Great Outdoors
Shop local to elevate your alfresco style with these must-have items for outdoor spaces.
living well
20
of the owner’s boutique hotel shop
Global Vision
Brook Village (and an extension 10 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
design
26
Clean Living
Elevate your laundry room into a sophisticated space for multitasking. We also share our favorite luxury products to help make your housework feel like less of a chore.
voice of experience
32
Easy Upgrades
Local designers and real estate agents share their tips for getting your home showroom ready.
recipes
78
Wraps & Rolls
sandwiches are ideal for easy summer suppers.
favorite finds
82
Garden Party
Kick off the season of outdoor entertaining with these celebratory essentials.
SPECIAL SECTION
36 Remodelers & Builders
The Alabama Excellence Remodeling Awards have named their winners. Don’t miss these projects by some of Birmingham’s top remodelers. Then, turn to page 44 to take a look at some brand new homes that offer even more inspiration and ideas. You professional for your project.
R I S E
T O G E T H E R. R O C K
F O R E V E R.
Inspiring creativity while providing exceptional products and delivering an unparalleled customer service experience. 4500 5TH AVENUE SOUTH • BUILDING G • BIRMINGHAM • 35222 205.592.0202 • TRITONSTONE.COM tritonstonegroup • Triton Stone Group
FROM THE EDITOR
M
y husband and I have been doing a little sprucing up around the house—nothing terribly big, but the little improvements have made a huge difference. Outside, we replaced some rotten boards and touched up paint. Our lawn-service guys delivered and spread 40 bales of pine straw. I planted three Kimberly queen ferns, and we added a pea gravel parking area so our new teen drivers won’t have to block the street. Inside, we re-covered two chairs in my favorite color palette (blue and white), exchanged the hollow door leading to our basement for a custom sliding door, and finally—FINALLY—replaced all of the burned-out lightbulbs throughout the house. (Now I can see again!) In this issue, we celebrate renovations, remodels, and thoughtful ideas for tidying up your own home with projects large and small. On page 14, landscape designer Todd Dorlon shows how to gain enviable curb appeal through well-manicured borders and a parking pad that becomes part of the landscape. On page 32, decorators and real estate agents share their tips for DIY weekend fixups. And page 36 spotlights the recipients of this year’s Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards. Take a peek at the winning whole-home renovations and bath makeovers and find the pros you can hire to tackle your own project. Our features showcase a new build customized for empty nesters in Shoal Creek (page 52), as well as a renovation for soon-to-be empty nesters that were looking to downsize in Mountain Brook (page 68). I think you will love the personal touches, thoughtful ideas for space planning, outdoor living areas, and cheerful color palettes in both homes. And be sure to check out how designer Anne Turner Carroll threaded varying shades of blue through a Vestavia Hills renovation on page 60. I hope this issue inspires you to take on some of your own projects. As for me and mine, we’ll be enjoying the view of freshly-laid pine straw from our newly power-washed deck. Enjoy.
Birmingham Home & Garden is published bimonthly in addition to two special issues by PMT Publishing Inc. © 2021. 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 and Garden, P.O Box 923773, Norcross, GA 30010-3373.
12 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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Whether you are building your forever home or planning a budget friendly refresh of your kitchen or bath, VW Gallerie consultants will help deliver the best solutions for your project. VW Gallerie has the most knowledgeable consultants who are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service so that your experience with us is an enjoyable one. It’s a short drive to one of our three convenient locations. Schedule your appointment today.
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m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 13
GARDENS
Landscape designer Todd Dorlon refreshes an overgrown, lackluster front yard into one that causes passersby to slow down and admire the details.
First Impression
What dates a landscape—particularly this one? Overall, the biggest issue making this yard look tired was not the plant choices. Instead, it was the lack of thought that went into designing this space on the front end, paired with years of being poorly maintained. If you invest in a design, it’s critical to invest in upkeep.
How did you manage all of those boxwoods? In smaller spaces like this one, repeating the same plant in varied shapes and sizes helps provide a cohesive look while still adding visual interest. Boxwoods are a great tool for achieving that and are one of my favorite plants. Here, we removed some of the larger boxwoods and replaced them with smaller ones that have now grown together to form a low hedge along the retaining wall and around the large containers.
How did your client’s needs shape this new design? The owners needed additional parking, so a pad was added on the side connecting to the alley. Doing that required the addition of a retaining wall, so the courtyard idea evolved out of a functional need. 14 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
BEFORE
TODD DORLON Todd Dorlon has been designing exquisite landscapes in the Birmingham area for past 18 years. He graduated from BirminghamSouthern College and went on to receive a degree in Enviromental Design from the school of architecture at Auburn University. When developing outdoor spaces, he works closely with clients, integrating the landscape and the architecture of the home to create a space that is both timeless and customized to each client’s needs. Todd lives in Vestavia Hills with his wife, Kathryn, and their two children.
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In this particular project, the brick used on the original sidewalk was one of the only elements I felt made sense to carry over into the new design. We kept the existing sidewalk layout and expanded on it by adding another walkway that runs perpendicular to the original sidewalk, connecting all points of entry to and from the courtyard space.
Any tips for great-looking border gardens? I have a pretty relaxed approach when it comes to flower beds. I worked for a larger landscape company for a couple of years after graduate school, and they had very specific rules regarding flower bed layouts. In my opinion, the end result fell short when following those guidelines. I prefer not to worry as much about what the tag says as far as plant heights and proper spacing. While I do pay attention to those things to some degree, I have found that sometimes working taller plants into the front of a border or crowding annuals closer together than recommended can yield very successful results.
Do you have a favorite color scheme? I do have seasonal favorites and tend to gravitate toward a combination of purple, blue, and white, mixed with multiple shades of green. However, beds at my own house are never the same twice. Whether it be a revised layout or a change in plant material and/or new color combinations, something is always different with each seasonal planting.
What are some other plants you use to balance out formal structure? Even though I like the clean, simplistic look of large hedges or rounded boxwoods, the looser, sometimes messy elements are what can really bring character and interest to a garden. Vitex trees have a number of redeeming qualities and can be found on many of the properties I’ve had a hand in designing. They are low-maintenance, m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 15
CURB APPEAL
BEFORE
and fast-growing with a fairly long bloom period. The biggest reason I gravitate toward them, though, is the fact that as they age, their knarled, sometimes disheveled appearance provides a nice balance to other neat and tidy plant material.
Why are containers important in this design? The combination of the
A casual border of rosemary, ornamental grasses, lamb’s ear, white angelonia, and a lowmaintenance, repeatblooming shrub rose called ‘Crystal Fairy’ helps soften the formality and structure of the boxwoods and walls in this garden. Each season, new annuals are filled back in around the existing perennials and evergreens.
containers and trees in each corner of this courtyard adds a vertical element and frames the view of the beautiful front door. The trees, ‘Winter King’ Hawthorn, soften the look of the house from the street. Because they are in such a visible spot, the tree selections needed year-round interest. These bloom white in the spring, show red berries in the fall, and have an attractive bark and an interesting branching pattern that’s most evident in winter. 16 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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“In every project, I look for the assets already existing on a property and incorporate them into the new plan whenever possible to help stretch the budget.” — Todd Dorlon
How important is landscape lighting? Aside from the fact that it can help you navigate safely through the garden when it’s dark, it also adds interest and ambience to a space and can highlight the best features of a home and garden.
Tell us about the front parking pad. What an amazing transformation! Originally, there was asphalt in that space which made it read as part of the street since it was the same material. It caused the yard to feel even smaller than it actually is. Working with such a small space, I had to think through every little detail to maximize impact and elevate the look of the front yard. The new parking design certainly provides additional visual interest over what was there before, but additionally, the white pavers tie in to the color of the house. Plus, the use of sod (Emerald Zoysia) in the joints helps connect the parking pad to the lawn.
RESOURCES: Landscape Design: Todd
Dorlon, TMD Landscape, tmdlandscapedesigns.com Architect for renovation: Long & Long Design, longandlongdesign.com Exterior color selection and door design: Jan Ware, janwaredesigns. com Renovation construction: Francis Bryant Construction, francisbryant.com Concrete containers: Elegant Earth, elegantearth.com m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 17
205.908.2932
hulseygardens.com
Instagram@hulseygardendesign
BRANCH OUT WITH US AT THE GARDENS. Japanese Maple Day
S A T U R D AY , M A Y 1 5
Join us for a special celebration of Japanese maples in the tranquility of our
bbgardens.org/mapleday
Children’s Summer Camps
MAY 24–JULY 23
Choose from 20+ half-day camps that promote creativity and the joy of discovery for age 4 through rising 6th grade. Camps include explorations of the Gardens, a keepsake T-shirt, and plants to take home and grow. (Members receive a discount!) bbgardens.org/summercamps
Become a Friend of the Gardens
J O I N U S A ND G R O W
special access to select classes and events at the Gardens; discounts at bbgardens.org/membership
bbgardens.org A facility of the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is the result of a a mission-driven membership organization that seeks to protect, nurture, and share the wonders of the Gardens.
OUTDOOR LIVING
The Great Outdoors
PAVE THE WAY Perfect for flooring indoors and out, FireRock’s line of architectural-grade concrete pavers adds timeless elegance to your home. Shown here: Clay pavers in a traditonal finish. firerock.us
P
photo courtesy of FireRock
LIGHT IT UP Illuminate your front entry with this handcrafted lantern by Fourteenth Colony Lighting from Brandino Brass Co. Available in eight finishes. brandinobrass.com
PULL UP A SEAT There’s no better perch to enjoy summer libations than this French-café-inspired barstool. Available in two-tone weaves of white and navy or white and natural. Shop in-store or online. summerclassicshome.com
PRETTY CUSHY Designed to stand up against weather, children, pets, and spills, these outdoor pillows from Wendy Jane (Gabby Home) enliven any outside living area. Available in a multitude of playful patterns and colors. gabbyhome.com
ollen season is finally over! That means it’s time to step outside and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you want to relax on your front porch, in your outdoor room, or on your deck this summer (or maybe you are thinking about building one), the products on this page offer easy ways to elevate your style. Shop local for these items and start enjoying the great outdoors.
AT YOUR SERVICE A longtime customer favorite, this console table from Elegant Earth stands ready to serve at your next outdoor engagement. Be sure to check out their new showroom for more. (See page 83 for details.) elegantearth.com
18 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
BENCHED FOR THE SEASON This solid teak, 4-foot-long bench is super versatile. Try one (or two) on your front porch or in place of chairs on either side of your outdoor dining table. southeasternsalvage.com
GET GLOWING Available in a variety of sizes and styles, these woven lanterns from Southeastern Salvage look great grouped together on an outdoor dining table. Or scatter several around to light up an entry or pathway. southeasternsalvage.com
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MONTEREY COLLECTION Schedule a complimentary virtual design consultation at SummerClassicsHome.com/BHG 3140 Pelham Parkway | Suite 600 | Pelham, AL 35124 | 205-358-9200
LIVING WELL
global
VISION
Step inside Amparo Fine Living in English Village and prepare to be transported to a bespoke world of handicrafts, elegant décor, fine linens and treasures. Owner Mariana Barran de Goodall brings her passion for connecting artisans and makers to customers with discerning taste. We sat down with the Monterrey, Mexico-born proprietor and discovered she’s just as interesting as her finds. 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 20 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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from monterrey to birmingham
and places in between, Mariana grew up in a home filled with a lifetime of accumulated treasures. “My parents always did a really good job of curating things from around the world. So their homes have always been very textured and layered. They might have a painting that was done by an artist living two miles away from them or a tobacco leaf that was hand-painted in Chinese ink. I grew up hearing the stories of all of these things and the people who created them. It was integral to our life—appreciating different cultures and languages.” Earning an undergraduate degree in international relations with a focus on diplomacy and culture followed by graduate school in Australia, Mariana began to piece together “that there were different places that had different talents. You go to Italy for their glassware but you go to England for something else,” she says. After Australia, Mariana traveled to southeast Asia, spending time learning about textiles and the processes associated with them: block printing, natural dyes, etc. Not yet sure how to translate her passions for culture, art, and creativity into a career, Mariana moved to Houston, taking a job in the oil and gas industry. But in her downtime, she started working with hand-embroidery “as a way of meditation and relaxation, spending some time for myself.” She turned this love of textiles into Hibiscus Linens, selling handmade linens and teaching embroidery classes. About this same time, she met her husband Alabamian Taylor Goodall, and their adventure began.
PHOTO BY GRAHAM YELTON
STREET ORIENTALS old | new | modern | traditional 1829 29th Avenue South • Homewood, AL 35209 • 205.870.3838 www.18thStreetOrientals.com
GUIDING
creative vision
Mariana and her husband were married in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, a place that captured their hearts so much that they wanted to share it with others. To do that, they purchased a private home in the city and converted it into a boutique hotel (Hotel Amparo) with a focus on on bespoke experiences and fine m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 21
raypoynor.com 205.879.3036
YOU
HOME
LIVING WELL
“It is a lot of fun for us to have artisans, creatives, and makers from across the globe who want to have their items in our store. You won’t have to leave Birmingham to be connected to the rest of the world.” —Mariana Barran de Goodall living. “It’s old-school European hospitality where creatives and makers can come to connect,” Mariana says. Amparo Fine Living in English Village is an extension of Hotel Amparo’s finely curated gift shop where guests are known to call the hotel after returning home just to have something shipped that they could not forget. Mariana’s vision for Amparo Fine Living is not only to be a place you stop in for the perfect hostess gift or to take a hand-embroidery class but also as a resource for designers. “We represent artisans from India, Paris, Portugal, Spain and several states in the United States, so if you need different brands of wallpaper or fabric, you can source it through us without having to drive to Atlanta. Right now, we carry three lines: papers and fabrics by Antoinette de Poisson,
fabrics and such from Sister Parish (Hibiscus Linens has done several collaborations with them already), and Riley Sheehy, a watercolor artist whose designs are translated to fabric and wallpaper. “I also want to use our space to host other artists and makers such as a painter who will hand-paint monograms on straw bags from Mexico that we’ve sourced. We want that type of experience that you cannot get somewhere else. In this way, we are supporting a family in Mexico who has been making straw bags for five generations as well as an up-and-coming artist. If we can do that, that is really something to be proud of. We want to create as many pretty things with as many people as possible.”
For more information on creative events such as hand-embroidery classes, visit amparofineliving.com or stop by the store in English Village.
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS
4500 1st Ave N
Montgomery • Huntsville
Birmingham, AL 35222
Tuscaloosa • Pensacola • Memphis
205-592-8615
Nashville • Baton Rouge
COLLABORATING TO CREATE THE BEAUTIFUL SPACES YOU LIVE IN EVERY DAY.
LIVING WELL
Ex"ore. Relax. Retreat. HOTEL AMPARO SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, MEXICO
Love what you seein Amparo in English Village? Then visit Hotel Amparo in San Miguel to fully immerse yourself in the carefully curated boutique hotel by the same name. Formerly a private home that was remodeled in the early 1900s, the historic property was recently remodeled again by a noted team of architects and artisans. Turn-of-the-century Spanish comfort and tradition flirts with modern art and brazen textiles, along with hushed alcoves and cherished heirlooms—a smart, edgy sort of elegance that reaches backward and forward and across the globe in refinement and amenity. For more information or to book your stay, visit hotelamparo.com
SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE
True to its name, Amparo means “shelter.” The hotel invites guests to a choice of five intimately appointed suites nestled around a private interior courtyard. Every nook, every fabric, and every moment is considered.
24 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
Located in Mexico’s central highlands, San Miguel de Allende is a colonial-era city known for its baroque Spanish architecture, arts scene, and cultural festivals. The centerpiece of the city is a stunning pink church built in 1683 and a well-landscaped plaza. Shops and restaurants wrap the square and fill storefronts along the cobblestone streets that spill out from this city center. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, the city is well-preserved. Courtyard gardens and homes reside behind colorful facades of rusty brown, orange, and yellow.
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Mountain Brook Village 2814 PETTICOAT LANE (205) 877- 3232
MODERN TRADITIONAL RUGS, TEXTILES, PILLOWS & ACCESSORIES
9:30 - 4:00 M - F Appointments Recommended
“Usually you need to get your metabolism healthy before your body can lose weight properly, simply losing weight doesn’t equal a healthier body.”
Meredith Mann CPT, Holistic Nutrition & Wellness Consultant For details and services visit
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DESIGN
Clean Living
Text by P A I G E T O W N L E Y / Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P
The laundry is expected to serve as so much more than a washroom (hello pets, shoes, sports gear, and even gift wrap!), but it’s not always equipped to efficiently carry the load. Stop the never-ending cycle of unorganized chaos and make the most out of your space.
IN THE FOLD
A dedicated space to fold and organize clothes after they’ve been washed is critical to the functionality of any laundry room. Don’t have a built-in countertop? Iron out the problem with the addition of a table. To save space, consider a foldable option that can be removed when not in use.
CONTROL THE CHAOS
Cabinetry and shelving allow for organization and less clutter. If you choose open shelving, you can elevate your aesthetic by transferring items like detergent and fabric softener into pretty glass containers. 26 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
SINKING IN
The sink is as much of an essential laundry room worker as the washer and dryer. Stain emergencies, kids’ messes, pet cleanups, and even soaking of kitchen pans are just a few of its beneficial functions. A laundry sink is typically deeper than a kitchen sink and should be larger, if possible. For maximum functionality, opt for a faucet with a pull-down sprayer.
ON THE LINE
Every laundry room needs a space to hang delicates that must air-dry. Instead of a freestanding drying rack, opt for a built-in drying rod as it takes up less space. Just be
ABOVE: Light, bright, and airy, this laundry room offers space to tackle stains and personal projects. Finishes pull double duty: white cabinets (Toulmin Cabinetry and Design) topped with Mont Blanc quartzite countertops, easy-to-clean porcelain tile floors, and handmade subway tile in a beautiful bright blue. A jetted sink and pull-out spray kitchen faucet helps with handwashing clothes. Designer: Yolanda Crawford, Ellis Architects, ellisarchitects.com Architect: Brian Brooker, Ellis Architects Builder: Smitherman Construction, 205.316.8589 Walls: Repose Gray, Sherwin-Williams Washer/dryer: Maytag from Ferguson, ferguson.com Sink and faucet: Ferguson birminghamhomeandgarden.com
sure it’s positioned far enough away from the wall to leave room for hangers.
PRACTICAL & PRETTY
An organized and functional laundry room doesn’t have to be strictly utilitarian. Perk up the space with an inviting design and finer finishes. Bring on the drama with bold walls or cabinets, or create some calm with a serene palette. Add in woven baskets or a pretty rug for warmth and texture.
TOUGH IT OUT
Quartz countertops are stain-resistant and can withstand practically anything (even harsh chemicals like bleach). For natural stone, consider granite or quartzite (but they must be sealed for stain resistance). For flooring, nothing tops maintenancefree porcelain tile, though the texture of natural materials like slate or flagstone are more slip-resistant. BELOW: A wall-hung utility sink and pulldown faucet are positively chic thanks to accompaniments such as the unlacquered brass pendant, tiled wall, and mosaic floor. Architect/Designer: Sissy Austin, Austin and Co., austinand.co Builder: Fry/Jones, fryjones.com Sink, faucet, tile: Fixtures & Finishes, fixturesandfinishes.com Cabinets: JLP, Inc., 205.599.4424 Walls: White Dove, Benjamin Moore Cabinets: Green Smoke, Farrow & Ball
m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 27
DESIGN
“Laundry rooms don’t always offer a lot of space, so it’s important to utilize every inch to make it as functional as possible.”
1
– Sumner Starling, Starling Interiors
WIDE OPEN SPACES
There’s no standard size for a laundry room, but the “bigger is better” approach certainly applies. Think through your laundry room goals and map out the space during the design process so that it comfortably houses everything desired. A clear vision upfront will better ensure the space not only works, but also makes laundry less of a chore.
2
DOUBLE DUTY
Large families can benefit from double washers and dryers. If going that route, think stackable units to save space. A second-floor laundry room has become a new trend and certainly has its benefits: no lugging the laundry up and down steps and more loads going at one time.
FULLY LOADED
3
4
Today’s appliances feature high-tech options that wash away the laundry room woes. Save time checking on laundry with a wi-fi-enabled washer and dryer that can notify you via app when the cycle is complete. Many washers and dryers also offer steam options that let you lose the wrinkles without the work. And the real game-changer: a pedestal sidekick washer (thanks, LG!) that helps with those forgotto-throw-it-in items.
5
TO THE DOGS
The laundry room is prime real estate for housing the family pet and all of his (or her) belongings. When designing, designate a built-in space specifically for your pet’s crate, food, toys, and other essentials. To really pamper your pooch—and keep unwanted pet hair out of the sink or tub— add a grooming station for bath time. 28 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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TUCKED & FOLDED
You invest in your clothes, so you should definitely invest in their care. Check out these niceties that make laundry duty feel (almost) luxurious. 1 BRIGHT & WHITE Everyone knows that off-the-shelf bleach is a threat to turn whites yellow. Skip the laundry supply section in the grocery store aisle and turn to these white brighteners and bleach alternatives from the Laundress. Your designer jeans will thank you. Suite Dreams Mountain Brook Village 2 TUMBLERS Replace your liquid fabric softener or fabric softener sheets with wool dryer balls to save money (you can use them over and over), avoid harmful chemicals, and be eco-friendly while getting wrinkle-free, soft laundry. The Lingerie Shoppe, Mountain Brook Village 3 GATHER UP Forget the plastic bins. These woven laundry (or really anything) baskets are sturdy; have a wide, flat bottom; and offer comfortable handles for transport. Pottery Barn, The Summit 4 GLAMOROUS WASH Your athletic wear will never be the same. The gentle detergent and fragrance will last through even the toughest workouts. Try it on sheets for sweet slumbers and any clothes for the prettiest perfume. Please Reply, Crestline 5 FASHION CARE To keep your swimsuits and lingerie from tangling in the wash, make the extra effort to separate them in this mesh bag. The Lingerie Shoppe 6 DRAWER LINERS Sweetly-scented drawer liners keep linens fresh long after the wash. Available in a variety of fragrances and floral patterns, these papers are perfect for stored items or everyday use. Three Sheets, Homewood m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 29
W W W.L AU R A M E R R I L L I N T E R I O R S.N E T
DESIGN
LEFT AND ABOVE: Formerly a bedroom, this room was large enough to convert into both a workroom and laundry. In the workroom, the island’s white oak waterfall edge offers custom dovetail joints. The adjacent laundry houses a sink, more storage, and a full-size stackable washer and dryer. Designer: Sumner Starling, Starling Interiors, IG: @sumnertstarling Architect: Paul Bates Architects, paulbatesarchitects.com Builder: Mimikakis Construction, mimikakisconstruction.com Cabinets: Parsons Custom Cabinetry, parsonscustomcabinetry.com Oak countertop: Evolutia, evolutiamade.com Plumbing fixtures: Fixtures & Finishes, fixturesandfinishes.com Hardware: Brandino Brass, brandinobrass.com Topiaries: Shoppe, shoppebham.com Walls and cabinets: Shaded White, Farrow & Ball Island: Blue Gray, Farrow & Ball
“The laundry room is a space that should look good and feel good because so much time is spent there.” –Yolanda Crawford, Ellis Architects RIGHT: Shiplap walls and sage green cabinets with unlacquered brass hardware lend a modern farmhouse vibe to this hardworking space. Designer: Douglas C. Davis & Associates, douglascdavis.com Builder: Jim Neighbors, 256.316.1755 Hardware: Brandino Brass, brandinobrass.com Cabinets: Clary Sage, Sherwin-Williams Walls: Alabaster White, Sherwin-Williams Quartz countertops: OHM International, Inc., ohmintl. com Sink, faucet, flooring: Fixtures & Finishes, fixturesandfinishes.com 30 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
For a Laundry Room that is OUT OF THIS WORLD! It’s that time of year again, when we would all rather be outside than stuck inside doing laundry. It doesn’t have to be a heavy chore. Lighten your loads with organization and a beautiful space you actually will enjoy being in! Whether you prefer a modular or built-in system, Space Cadets has the perfect solution for you, your home and your budget.
Let Us Organize Your World!
Check out our Retail & Design Center in Brook Highland Plaza
5287 Hwy 280 South, Suite 261 l Birmingham, AL 35242 l 205.326.7025 l www.spacecadetsorg.com
LARGE CUSTOM CONTEMPORARY
VickiDenaburg.com FB: Vicki Denaburg Art Studio IG: @vickidenaburgart
ART
B E A U I N T E R I O R S / G R AY T O N B E A C H B E L L A V I TA / G E R M A N T O W N BY APPOINTMENT IN STUDIO COMMISSIONS WELCOME
VOICE OF EXPERIENCE
Easy Upgrades BEFORE
LOOKING FOR A LITTLE HOME REFRESHMENT? Or maybe a lot? Whether you want to renovate an entire room or just add some interest through paint, tile, fabric, or wallcoverings, take some advice from these design professionals to help get you started.
BEFORE
Laurie Fulkerson LIGHTEN UP
There are so many beautiful and unique lighting options available right now! It’s amazing what a difference new lighting can make. NEW SURFACES If new cabinets aren’t in the budget, consider new tile and countertops. There are a lot of options out there and it is always fun to find unique ways to install new tile. UPDATE YOUR BATH The bath is a place to relax and unwind after a long day—especially with a new soaking tub or updated shower complete with body sprays. PAPER IT Wallpaper is one of my favorite ways to update a room. I like to pull options to fit my client’s personality and the design of their home. HOME WORK With our current culture, working from home is becoming more commonplace. If you can’t dedicate an entire room to a home office, transform a nook or closet into a work space. Laurie Fulkerson • Twin Interiors, LLC 205.802.3920 • twincompanies.com laurie@twincompanies.com 32 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
Lauren Conner PAINT IT WHITE. A room always looks fresh with white paint. Try China White or Simply White from Benjamin Moore. UPGRADE THE MATERIAL Whether it’s your countertop, flooring, or upholstery, resurfacing or replacing worn materials makes a space feel new. FRAME SOMETHING Add interest to empty walls with wallpaper panels,
botanical prints, golf flags, or vintage anything. ADD A MIRROR Mirrors bring in an abundance of natural light, and the reflection visually increases room size. REUPHOLSTER A lively new fabric can do wonders for a vintage or antique chair. Perk up a room with a bold print or color.
Lauren Conner • Lauren Conner Interiors • 205.223• 1573 IG: @laurenconnerinteriors
Michael J. McKay UPDATE AND UPGRADE Pay extra attention to things such as cabinets, floors, plumbing, and electrical. These fixed items will last longer than a new sofa. And remember, it’s always easier to renovate before you move in. CONSIDER ACCESSIBILITY Universal design features and aging-in-place accommodations are finally capturing the attention of the Baby Boomers. COLOR TRENDS Looking for a new color scheme? Light paint colors—whites and light grays—continue to be very popular, but warmer whites and creams are on the rise. Blues— light and dark—are still popular as an accent color for cabinetry. Michael J. McKay • Oak Alley Design Build • 205.669.3334 • oakalleydesignbuild.com birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Alison Smith USE YOUR DINING ROOM Encourage longer stays at the table with plentiful, comfortable seating such as banquettes, paired sofas, and upholstered dining chairs. TAKE IT OUTSIDE Outdoor living spaces continue to call for indoor comforts. Exchange your wrought iron for fully upholstered sofas and lounge chairs that look and feel like indoor furniture. For at-home entertainment, consider adding a swimming pool, outdoor TV, fireplace and fans—as well as outdoor dining and cooking spaces. EVERYONE IS DOWNSTAIRS Because basement renovations are perfect multi-use spaces, it makes sense to up the caliber of the decor. Think lots of lounge seating, tables and chairs that do double duty in dining and gaming areas, bars, and pool and ping pong tables. READY FOR A TOTAL DO-OVER? A kitchen renovation is the number one way to add value and style. Current design trends call for inset cabinetry, more windows, marble or quartzite countertops, large islands with seating, multiple refrigeration options (column refrigerators, refrigerator drawers, and wine/beverage refrigerators), unlaquered brass fixtures and cabinet hardware, hardwood floors, breakfast area banquettes, and hidden areas for small appliances. Alison Smith Alison Smith Interiors 205.427.3547 alisonsmithinteriors.com alisonsmithinteriors@gmail.com IG: @alisonsmithinteriors m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 33
1830 29th Ave South • Homewood, AL sohohomewood.bar
VOICE OF EXPERIENCE
Quick Fixes REAL ESTATE AGENTS are tasked with advising clients on how to get their home market-ready. Everyone agrees that fresh pine straw and a good pressure washing will make any home more appealing, but have you thought about updating light fixtures or repainting your front door? Maybe you’re not looking to sell, but these simple tips will certainly improve your (and your neighbor’s) view.
CLEAN UP YOUR LANDSCAPE Trim bushes,
edge your lawn, and add tons of pine straw. REPAIR any rotted wood, and repaint. WASH WINDOWS
Always hire a professional to wash your windows. It makes your home feel cleaner inside and out. Ashley Fierman Lewis Associate Broker-The Fred Smith Group / RealtySouth cell: 205.907.7622 office: 205.879.6330 soldbyfred.com soldbyashley@gmail.com
PLANT FRESH GREENERY or flowers
in your planters. Replace any shrubbery that needs attention. If you don’t have a green thumb, talk to one of our city’s locally-owned nurseries. They are happy to help.
CHECK YOUR FRONT DOOR to see if it needs to
be re-stained or painted.
Blair Moss Ray and Poynor 205.222.5628 bmoss@raypoynor.com
PACK AND ORGANIZE.
Now is the time to organize closets, your basement, and the garage. Pack up personal items and accessories. You’ll be one step ahead when it’s time to move. REPAINT Well-lived -in rooms will benefit from a touch up.
ADD POTS OF FLOWERS
to bring a pop of color to your entrance.
MAKE IT INVITING
Add pillows and string lights to decks and patios.
REMOVE PERSONAL ITEMS so that buyers can
see themselves, not you, in your home. REPLACE OLD OR BROKEN FIXTURES
If you have old lighting or rusty hardware that needs updating, you can change out those things out fairly inexpensively. Crissi Waters Bradley Perlis Group, LAH Real Estate 205.792.2520 crissi@lahrealestate.com
Ginger Busby LAH Real Estate cell: 205.612.3834 gingerbusby@lahrealestate.com IG / FB: @gingerobusbyrealtor
Homes in photos above listed and sold by The Fred Smith Group. 34 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
CARPET, HARDWOOD, TILE & MORE
We Deliver Samples!
(205) 518-6423
813 Green Springs Hwy
FOO & YOU WE ARE ONE
McGowin-King Mortgage, LLC.
Make Your Dream Home a Reality
Looking to Buy? Rates are at historic lows. Call Warner McGowin at McGowinKing Mortgage, LLC and see what makes sense for you. With more than 40 years in the business, McGowin-King makes the mortgage process easy. mcgowinking.com 205.451.0679 NMLS#: 431618
Luxury Flooring... Without the Hefty Price Tag
Birmingham REMODELERS & BUILDERS Check out the following pages for award-winning projects by some of Birmingham’s top remodelers as recognized in the annual Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards. Join us in congratulating the winners! Then, turn to page 44 to take a look at some incredible new builds by some of the area’s top contractors. Whether you are renovating or building new, this section can point you to a top professional in their field.
This page showcases a few of the winning entries. Clockwise from top left: Toulmin Cabinetry, Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa; J. Manifold Construction, Lee County Home Builders Association; Cornerstone Construction, Cullman County Home Builders; Willow Homes, Greater Birimngham Association of Homebuilders
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Congratulations to the Winners of the 2021 ALABAMA REMODELING EXCELLENCE AWARDS BEST IN SHOW J. Manifold Construction (Brookside Game Day Dream Home), Lee County Home Builders Association WHOLE HOUSE REMODEL UNDER $250,000 Winner: Selby Davis Builder (Hawthorn Drive), Greater Montgomery Home Builders Association Runner-Up: Druid City Properties (Lake Vacation Rental), Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa Runner-Up: Robert Dueitt Construction, LLC (Lindeman Project), Home Builders Association of Metro Mobile WHOLE HOUSE REMODEL $250,000-$500,000 Winner: Robert Dueitt Construction, LLC (Ozburn Home), Home Builders Association of Metro Mobile Runner-Up: Willow Homes (Modern Vestavia Rancher), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Runner-Up: River Brook Design & Construction (209 Euclid), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders WHOLE HOUSE REMODEL OVER $500,000 Winner: J. Manifold Construction (Brookside Game Day Dream Home), Lee County Home Builders Association
BATH REMODEL UNDER $35,000 Winner: Crosstek Construction (Natural Master Reno), Huntsville Madison County Builders Association Runner-Up: Ray Kennamer Construction, Inc. (Cottage Master Bath Remodel), Marshall County Home Builders Association Runner-Up: Oak Alley, Inc. (Finishing Touch), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders BATH REMODEL $35,000-$70,000 Winner: j. fante studio (Cherokee Bend Master Bath), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Runner-Up: Toulmin Cabinetry & Design (Good as Gold), Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa Runner-Up: River Brook Design & Construction (1801 Kensington), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders BATH REMODEL OVER $70,000 Winner: Selby Davis Builder (Hawthorn Bath), Greater Montgomery Home Builders Association Runner-Up: j. fante studio (Montcrest Master Bath), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Runner-Up: Riverworks Design Studio (Strickland Master Bathroom), Shoals Home Builders Association
Runner-Up: Cornerstone Construction (Remodel Project), Cullman County Home Builders Association
ADDITIONS Winner: Oak Alley, Inc. (Fellowship & Congregation), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
Runner-Up: J. Manifold Construction (Payne Street Cottage), Lee County Home Builders Association
Runner-Up: Vincent Remodeling (Garage Addition), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
KITCHEN REMODEL UNDER $75,000 Winner: Ray Kennamer Construction, Inc. (Cottage Kitchen Remodel), Marshall County Home Builders Association
Runner-Up: Vincent Remodeling (Multiple Bedrooms & Baths Addition), Vincent Remodeling
BASEMENT REMODEL Winner: River Brook Design & Construction (104 Pine Ridge Circle), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders INSURANCE RESTORATION Winner: BMR Homes, Inc. (The Unlicensed Flip), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders SPACE RENOVATION/RESIDENTIAL SPECIALTY PROJECT Winner: TLC Design/Build, LLC (Collection Display Room), Lee County Home Builders Association Runner-Up: Thompson Construction Services Inc. (Holly’s Master Suite), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Runner-Up: Crosstek Construction (Attic Media Room), Huntsville Madison County Builders Association HISTORIC PRESERVATION Winner: Toulmin Cabinetry & Design (Mid-Century Marvel), Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa CUSTOM HOME BUILD UNDER $500,000 Winner: Willow Homes (Avondale Project), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Runner-Up: Frostholm Construction LLC (Neese Project), Baldwin County Home Builders Association Runner-Up: High Cotton Homes (Modern on Pine), Shoals Home Builders Association CUSTOM HOME BUILD $500,000-$1 MILLION Winner: Frostholm Construction LLC (Burton Project), Baldwin County Home Builders Association Runner-Up: Willow Homes (Hollywood Project), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
Runner-Up: Willow Homes (Kendall Court Kitchen), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
EXTERIOR REMODEL Winner: River Brook Design & Construction (209 Euclid), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
Runner-Up: Crosstek Construction (Main Kitchen Overhaul), Huntsville Madison County Builders Association
Runner-Up: Willow Homes (Modern Vestavia Rancher Remodel), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
CUSTOM HOME BUILD OVER $1 MILLION Winner: J Wright Building Company (Blackridge Cove), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
KITCHEN REMODEL $75,000-$150,000 Winner: River Brook Design & Construction (1801 Kensington), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
Runner-Up: Crosstek Construction (4-Story Monster Chimney), Huntsville Madison County Builders Association
Runner-Up: Taylor Burton Company, Inc.
Runner-Up: Taylor Burton Company, Inc. (Kitchen on the Mountain), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Runner-Up: Toulmin Cabinetry & Design (Mid-Century Marvel), Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa
OUTDOOR LIVING Winner: Frostholm Construction LLC (Connell Project), Baldwin County Home Builders Association Runner-Up: River Brook Design & Construction (209 Euclid), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Runner-Up: Oak Alley, Inc. (Summer in Style), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders
Runner-Up: Frostholm Construction LLC (JEP Project), Baldwin County Home Builders Association
Runner-Up: Frostholm Construction LLC (Coker Project), Baldwin County Home Builders Association (In-Town Resort), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders The Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards are presented by the Home Builders Association of Alabama. To learn more about the AREA competition and to view photos of all of this year’s winning entries, visit www.RemodelAlabama.com.
BIRMINGHAM REMODELERS & BUILDERS • 2021 • EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS birminghamhomeandgarden.com
m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 37
Birmingham
REMODELERS & BUILDERS
BEFORE
BEFORE
River Brook Design Construction (205) 383-9699
riverbrook.construction
Euclid
WINNER: EXTERIOR REMODEL
W
hen this 1950s home came on the market, the buyers were thrilled to have a home near their children and grandchildren but knew it would require extensive renovations. The exterior was redesigned to change the low-sloped roofline, which lacked visual appeal. Gables, a dormer, a bay window, and architectural elements such as copper awning and gutters, custom shutters, and recurring arches added Old World charm. The entire interior was gutted, and the lower level leading out to the backyard was fully finished to add a second living area, coffee bar, guest room, full bath, and baby room for visiting grandkids. On the main level, a screened porch addition was constructed with a vaulted ceiling to create the perfect airy retreat. The kitchen was opened up and updated with creamy white cabinetry, a large center island, and modern pendants hanging from a rustic beam overhead. New larger windows throughout the home help make the interiors bright and inviting.
BIRMINGHAM REMODELERS & BUILDERS • 2021 • EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS 38 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
River Brook Design Construction
BEFORE
Kensington
WINNER: KITCHEN REMODEL $75,000-$150,000
A
fter being inhabited by hoarders, this dark, closed-off kitchen was in desperate need of an update for its new homeowner. The kitchen was fully gutted and relocated to the old porch, where it is now open to the living room. The ceilings were vaulted and new larger windows were added to flood the space with light. High-end cabinets with quartz countertops were installed, along with all-new stainless steel appliances. A center island features plenty of storage and prep space. A built-in coffee station was added for an extra touch of luxury. Special antique architectural pieces, such as the reclaimed wood beams overhead bring the finishing touches to the design.
BIRMINGHAM REMODELERS & BUILDERS • 2021 • EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS birminghamhomeandgarden.com
m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 39
Birmingham
REMODELERS & BUILDERS
J. Fante Studio (205) 810-6600 jfantestudio.com
WINNER:
Cherokee Bend BATH REMODEL
$35,000-$70,000
A
lthough this older home had a huge master bedroom, the master bath was tiny and covered in dated, baby blue tile. To give the owners a place to unwind and relax, walls were opened up and moved for more space in the bathroom. A freestanding tub was installed underneath a new picture window. A new, oversized shower features marble tile and a floating bench. Custom inset cabinet vanities include marble countertops and a seated makeup vanity. Decorative lighting, custom mirrors, and hardware complete the space. and New hardwood floors match the rest of the house.
BEFORE
BIRMINGHAM REMODELERS & BUILDERS • 2021 • EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS 40 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Birmingham
REMODELERS & BUILDERS
BEFORE
Oak Alley (205) 669-3334
oakalleydesignbuild.com
Fellowship & Congregation
WINNER:
ADDITIONS
BEFORE
N
othing was more important to these homeowners than fellowship and congregation, but they knew they needed more space to entertain. The old deck and screen porch were removed, and a 500-square-foot addition was built with a 12-foot vaulted ceiling. In the existing living room, the cracked marble hearth was replaced with gloss ebony tile. For the kitchen renovation, the wall dividing the kitchen and living room was removed and an engineered beam installed. Bright white Bishop Wellborn Cabinets, a navy blue center island, quartz countertops, and all-new appliances were installed, and an arched window replaced the existing kitchen window. A new sunporch includes floor-to-ceiling, triple-track storm windows that can be opened from top to bottom or completely removed to create a screened porch for all seasons. Running along the entire width of the house, the back deck features stairs at either end, as well as an accessibility ramp for universal access to and from the parking area.
BIRMINGHAM REMODELERS & BUILDERS • 2021 • EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS birminghamhomeandgarden.com
m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 41
Birmingham
REMODELERS & BUILDERS
J. Wright Building Company (205) 820-0100
JWrightBuildingCompany.com
WINNER:
Blackridge Cove
CUSTOM HOME OVER $1 MILLION
S
et on a lot with tight front and rear setbacks, this custom home was designed for relaxing and entertaining with access to stunning views of the lake. This winning entry is just one example that shows the quality of work that helped designate J. Wright Building Company as a Southern Living custom home builder. The foyer gives a nod to its natural surroundings with the use of reclaimed wood on the ceiling. In the great room, a massive stone fireplace carries the eye up to the wood beams in the vaulted ceiling, creating movement in the space. A large, dark, stained center island in the kitchen contrasts with the light cabinets to add depth and dimension. An accent backsplash behind the range adds interest to the clean look of the surrounding subway tile. Each of the four bedrooms include a window seat to take in the lake views. The master bath features a large freestanding tub and a marble-tile shower with built-in bench for the ultimate home spa experience. The back porch is a peaceful space that continues the architecture of the great room. With its vaulted ceiling and direct views, it is designed to provide a relaxing space to take in the beauty of Blackridge Lake.
BIRMINGHAM REMODELERS & BUILDERS • 2021 • EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS 42 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
River Bottom Pine specializes in reclaimed wide plank flooring. We have the largest inventory of reclaimed oak in the southeast. We mill and pine all domestic woods. Not only do we build tables, mantels, barn doors, beams, and other needs but we also have a large inventory of wall skins. FARMHOUSE TABLES • BARN DOORS • ISLAND TOPS • MANTELS • BEAMS • WALL PANELING • NEW WOOD
INTERIORS BY RIVER BOTTOM PINE
2336 F.L. Shuttlesworth Drive • Birmingham, AL 35234 Contact Kim Turner: 205.914.4572 • kimrbp@gmail.com • www.riverbottompine.com
VESTAVIA - MOUNTAIN BROOK
KADCO HOMES
Lennox is a brand new gated townhome community located Shelby Counties.
community pool & NOW LEASING!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AT LIVEATLENNOX.COM OR CALL
Maggie Kessler (205) 999-9877
KADCO Homes • www.kadcohomes.com
HOMEWOOD - TRUSSVILLE
KADCO HOMES
THE COVE AT OVERTON Mountain Brook & Vestavia Hills
CALTON HILL Mountain Brook & Birmingham
POE DRIVE AT OVERTON VILLAGE Vestavia Hills ROSEMONT Vestavia Hills
Jason Kessler (205) 369-5187
THE CROSSING AT DEERFOOT Trussville DEVONSHIRE ESTATES Homewood
DAVID CHANCELLOR 334-799-3922
legacynewhomes.com
ASHLEY CHANCELLOR 334-202-9017
If you can dream it, we can build it on Lake Martin.
DESIGN RENOVATION MAINTENANCE
205.526.0476 turner-homes.com
MEET YOUR
SALES TEAM FOR AD INFO CALL
Hope Roddham 205.802.6363 ext 114
or Traci Owen
205.802.6363 ext 110
inspiration
Birmingham Home & Garden and River Brook Design & Construction can’t wait for you to experience our 20th anniversary Inspiration Home! Stay tuned for updates on our pages and on social media. Opening Fall 2021.
Introducing our 2021 Inspiration Home
Welcome to
W
HOLLYWOOD
e’ve selected Birmingham’s top vendors and talented designers to bring innovative and exciting ideas to our next Inspiration Home in the Hollywood neighborhood. You’ll find fresh, stylish looks from longtime Birmingham favorites, as well as newcomers to the design scene. The home features spaces by Pandy Agnew, Jeremy Clark, Ashley Gallion, Hiltz-Lauber, Laura Vogtle Interiors, Mark Kennamer Designs, Danielle Balanis, Cambridge Row, Stock & Trade, and 18th Street Orientals, along with many others. Plus, we feature outdoor designs from TMD Landscape and FireRock. Kitchens and baths showcase products from Fixtures & Finishes, Triton Stone Group, Avondale Specialty Hardware, Earthborn Pottery, Space Cadets, The Refinery Custom Cabinets, and more. And our design and building partners at River Brook Design & Construction are bringing in historic character with antique doors from Charles Phillips Antiques & Architecturals. We’ll also have advice and tips from local pros such as Land Title, Ray & Poynor, and Spire to guide your house-buying decisions. We can’t wait to greet you at the front door!
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birminghamhomeandgarden.com
DESIGNER & BUILDER: River Brook Design & Construction Owners Kevin and Leigh Misso launched River Brook Design & Construction as a husbandand-wife team in 2017. Since then, River Brook has expanded to include custom luxury new builds, renovations, and additions, as well as residential and commercial design. The River Brook team of talented designers and experienced project managers is committed to working with each client to identify their unique needs and expectations while delivering a beautiful project that is on-time and in-budget.
We work tirelessly to help kids get well because the world needs to see what Natalie dreams up. WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.
Benefitting
MAGIC MOMENTS Magic Moments was founded with the sole purpose of providing happiness to children throughout Alabama who are diagnosed with chronic, lifethreatening illnesses. To date, the organization has provided close to 5,000 special experiences. Not only does Magic Moments provide children with nonmedical opportunities, such as a family trip to Disney World, meeting a celebrity, or going on a shopping spree, they also offer events to enhance relationships between the staff and families, as well as relationships with other families.
1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 | ChildrensAL.org
Watch for 2021 Inspiration Home ticket and tour information at birminghamhomeandgarden.com (Tickets will be available online and at the door.)
SocialMedia Media Social L LC ET CI OT N ION L O LGOOG CO OCL OL E
m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 51
The William McLure painting in the foyer was purchased while the house was being built. The dramatic contrasts of color and and cool blue accents served as inspiration for the home’s palette. The entry table hosts an eye-catching bust/ flower container filled with a mix of garden greenery, limelight hydrangeas, and spiky yellow foxtail lilies. 52 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
FRESH START
A NEW HOME IN THE LUSH SHOAL CREEK COMMUNITY EMBRACES A TRANSITIONAL LOOK THAT GIVES OFF A CHIC BUT RELAXED VACATION VIBE INSIDE AND OUT. The dining table with its apron detailing and gloss coating contrasts the iron-hammered chairs. A crystal chandelier and gilded mirror, along with a collection of framed intaglios, introduce Old World elegance.
Text by A L I C E W E L S H D O Y L E / Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P birminghamhomeandgarden.com
m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 53
EXTERIOR ABOVE AND FAR RIGHT: The elegant but charming entrance is duplicated on the back of the house, making both places equally welcoming. Because of the golf course view, it was important that the back be as special as the front. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the great room, amazing outdoor entertaining spaces, and a striking back entrance fit the bill. One of the many advantages of living at Shoal Creek is the privacy of the properties, allowing plentiful large-scale windows to bring in light throughout the rooms.
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“I don’t think we brought anything from our former home when we moved to Shoal Creek!” laughs Lynne Petro. “Tim and I were ready for a new home and updated interiors that would reflect how we wanted to live and entertain going forward.” The couple had been members of the Shoal Creek golf club for years and were willing to live further from Birmingham’s center in order to enjoy the naturefilled setting, vacation attitude, and nonstop golf, one of Tim’s passions. When their youngest child was a junior in high school, they saw how quickly lots were being snatched up in the community and decided to act. The timing could not have been better. “We moved in one week before the COVID lockdown,” says Lynne. Early in the process, the Petros called on architect Robert Thompson to draw on influences from European cottage architecture when designing the house. Robert worked with Shoal Creek’s design review board to site the home to its best advantage. “The entire design really came down to capturing the views,” he
BELOW: A wet bar off the kitchen provides a connection between entertaining spaces with its arched opening and subtle patterned wallpaper (“Desmond in Pearl” from Thibaut). Cabinet paint color is “Iron Ore” from Sherwin-Williams.
SCALE UP Custom-built homes often require new furnishings, art, and décor to match the more modern proportions and higher ceilings. While interior designers love to incorporate existing pieces, there sometimes is a need for larger scale pieces to join in the mix. Kate Hartman and Kelly Neely of Hartman Neely Interiors (formerly Chickadee) share some ideas in play for this project. THINK BIG. When it comes to light fixtures in spaces with high ceilings, bigger is better. “They make such a difference,” say the designers. “An overscaled fixture demands attention to the room and also draws the eye up if the ceilings are high.” CREATE MULTIPLE SEATING AREAS. A large great room needs more than one seating area to make it feel inviting. In this house, the designers included a pair of high-backed chairs and a coffee table in front of the fireplace. The other side holds two sofas and a settee. DRAW ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS. Mirrors can work wonders to bring interest to a wall in a spacious room or to draw attention to an architectural feature. In the great room, a miror over the mantel leads the eye up to the spectacular ceiling detail.
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says. “While most plans call for a great room in the middle of the home, this one has it encompassing the far right side where it’s wrapped with floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the most compelling views.” For the overall floorplan, Lynne knew exactly what she wanted—spaces that allow for intimate family time as well as ones for larger gatherings. Her wish list also included a birminghamhomeandgarden.com
“The great room ceiling is one of our favorite features. It was a bit like putting a difficult puzzle together but was worth the effort. The waxed white oak adds warmth and certainly makes a statement in the large space.” — Kate Hartman birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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“We all still believe in the white kitchen! It’s a classic. You can always bring in color and texture through furniture and décor.” — Kelly Neely
RESOURCES: Architecture: Robert Thompson, thompsonarchitecture.com Interior design: Kate Hartman & Kelly Neely of Hartman Neely
Interiors, hartmanneelyinteriors.com Contractor: Harris Coggin, harriscoggin.com Landscape design and installation: Richter Landscape Company, richterlandscape.com Interior and exterior paint color: Sherwin-Williams “Alabaster” Bound carpets: Billy Brown Flooring, billybrownflooring.com Audio: Audio Visual Excellence (AVX), avxinc.com Kitchen and bathroom hardware: Brandino Brass, brandinobrass.com Kitchen and bathroom cabinets: RTS Construction, rtsconstruction.net Countertops and Backsplash: Surface One, surface1.com Kitchen appliances: AllSouth Appliance Group, allsouthappliance.net Bathroom finishes and tile: Fixtures & Finishes, fixturesandfinishes.com
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designated dining room. “After years of living with an open floorplan, I had a strong desire for a large, elegant dining room that was more of a destination within the home,” she says. The couple also requested a basement hangout for their college-age son, an upstairs bunkroom for current and future grandchildren, and space for guests. “Given that we are further from town, we wanted to give our close friends the option of staying the night if they desired,” says Lynne. To imbue these rooms with an updated and light-filled look, the Petros engaged Kate Hartman and Kelly Neely of Hartman Neely Interiors. Given that Lynne was ready to embrace a new style, the designers were operating with a blank canvas. “While we love incorporating our clients’ treasures into the design, there’s a real luxury to starting from scratch and selecting pieces that fit in perfectly with the design and scale of the home,” Kate and Kelly agree. One reason Lynn left everything behind during the move was that the needs of the new house were different. “Here, the scale of the rooms called out for some new statement-making pieces in keeping with the larger dimensions and higher ceilings,” says Kate. “Proportion was definitely key.” For continuity between spaces, the designers repeated certain finishes such as the waxed white oak on the great room ceiling that appears on the kitchen island. “We also put black into play in every room, including the outdoor spaces,” says Kate. “And we strived to balance feminine elements with masculine ones.” Examples include the black iron dining room chairs upholstered in a blue botanical print, as well as the more contemporary black side tables that flank the floral print headboard in the primary bedroom. Ultimately, each inviting room in the home seems to engage in conversation with the others, creating a welcoming flow eager to receive a myriad of Petro family and friends and ready to capture a new chapter of lasting memories. ABOVE RIGHT: The bathroom’s focus is the soaking tub. “It’s the star of the show,” says Kelly. “All the other things in the space are supporting characters.” RIGHT: The designers used tall mirrors over black bedside tables to draw the eye up. Hartman Neely Interiors designed the custom headboard.
Head Turner Text by Z O Ë G O W E N / Photography by J E A N A L L S O P P
BEFORE
AFTER
In the den, Anne Turner Carroll skipped window treatments and instead painted the windows and muntins Benjamin Moore “French Beret” (1610). “If you had this view, you wouldn’t hang curtains either,” she says. 60 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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A DRAB 1970S VESTAVIA HILLS HOME BECOMES A SHOWSTOPPER THANKS TO THE COLLABORATIVE VISION OF INTERIOR DESIGNER ANNE TURNER CARROLL AND RESIDENTIAL DESIGNER RICHARD LONG.
before: Dreary carpet and a dull paint color, along with an oppressive stone fireplace, stole the view and caused the room to feel small. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
after: Fresh paint, new windows and doors,
and a crisp new color scheme make this room worthy of its vistas. For architectural interest, Richard Long added curved details to the kitchen’s formerly squared openings.
““We We absolutely love the location, but the house is only likable.”That’s
the all-too-familiar quandary for many Birmingham families on a quest for their forever home, including these Vestavia Hills homeowners. “We had been living in the neighborhood for 15 years and didn’t want to give up our friends, the bike riding, or the walk to school,” says the wife. Luckily the couple was paying attention on one of those bike rides and saw the potential behind the overgrown shrubbery climbing this 1970s home. “The thought of renovating was a bit overwhelming, but we did like that the house backs up to the Vestavia Hills Country Club golf course,” the wife says. Deciding to go for it, the couple made a call to their friend and interior designer Anne Turner Carroll. They also enlisted the expertise of residential designer Richard Long of Long and Long Design and builder Nikolaus Mimikakis. “Teamwork makes the dream work, and this was really the best team I’ve ever worked with,” says Anne Turner. “The home’s architecture had a lot of character and charm,” Richard says. “We wanted to maintain the scale and as many of the Arts and Crafts details as we could. Our plans started with preserving those details while adding the modern amenities and efficiencies that people want today.” Richard drafted a two-story, steeplygabled addition to mimic the existing roofline on the front right exterior. Bringing symmetry to the design offered a more cohesive and updated m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 61
meet ANNE TURNER CARROLL
An Auburn design school grad with a stellar resume, Anne Turner Carroll started her career in New York City working under industry heavy hitters like Diamond Barrata and Hable Construction. She later held positions at Cottage Living and Southern Living magazines. Now she’s the owner of ATC Interiors + Designs.
personal style: Traditionalist with an edge. Warm, elegant, and elevated are the buzzwords running through my head when I’m scheming for clients. I try to avoid anything saccharine or trendy. You should invest in your home with timeless and elegant pieces. design inspiration: Sounds cliché, but it’s travel, textiles, and photography. My mom, also a decorator, and I went on the trip of a lifetime to Paris to celebrate her 70th and my 40th. The city is overflowing with design inspiration. dream project: Whether I’m working on new
construction or a renovation, my dream is simple: I want to work with a client that trusts me to create a beautiful, functional home that exceeds their expectations. 62 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
BEFORE
before: Grim brown cabinetry and a small window created a dark, cramped atmosphere. The kitchen island didn’t allow seating. after: A bigger window,
white cabinets, and new tile and countertops, along with an island to accomodate seating, allow the kitchen to feel and live larger.
look and allowed space for the new garage that the homeowners wanted. Inside, Richard reconfigured the floorplan to maximize living spaces. Rooms without much purpose were eliminated to allow for larger, hardworking areas such as the laundry and office. Newly widened halls welcome an abundance of natural light while discreet but amply-sized built-in closets and cabinets hide quietly between rooms and beside doorways. And when the team discovered the house had originally been framed for 9-foot ceilings, Richard elected to restore them to make the house seem bigger. For the interior scheme, Anne Turner made light-handed decorating choices. “It was really birminghamhomeandgarden.com
ABOVE: Tiny white subway tiles from Triton Stone pair well with Bianco Rhino marble countertops from Surface One and a polished nickel faucet from Fixtures & Finishes. Richard designed the three panels above the sink to further the rhythm of the upper cabinets.
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TOP: Removing a partition that divided the living room and kitchen improved circulation. RIGHT: In the master bedroom, the husband wanted to wake up feeling like he was at the beach. Anne Turner obliged with a raffia Oly Studio bed from Design Supply dressed in Matouk bedding with aqua accents from Suite Dreams. ABOVE: White bathroom walls allow punches of color and pattern to take center stage. 64 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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BEFORE
before: A typical 1970s design without much detail, the room lacked function and pizzazz. after: Richard created a built-in cabinet in lieu of a traditional sideboard while Anne Turner selected a whimsical wallpaper from Quadrille.
hard at first,” she says. “The husband likes minimal, modern designs while the wife prefers bright color. I was nervous about how to make it all work, but then I realized that the answer is exactly what I like myself—a neutral backdrop with a consistent pop of color and some black accents for contrast.” she says. To start, Anne Turner painted everything a classic white (Benjamin Moore’s White Dove) and then threaded a blue theme throughout. Pops of teal, Tiffany blue, navy, and aqua appear in fabrics and fixtures. The color palette includes a range of dark and light hues in solid applications, as well as graphic prints and soft florals. “There’s also a liveable mix of modern and traditional, like the funky wallpaper paired with the wife’s grandmother’s chandelier,” says Anne Turner. “It’s a comfortable combination that allows the family to live beautifully and fully in all of the spaces.” birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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before: Scraggly plants and a taupey brown paint scheme hid the potential of this one-story Arts and Crafts-style home.
BEFORE
after: Richard retained the home’s original eyebrow
dormer and widened the front doorway by 6 inches while adding a second gable. A fresh gray-and-white palette (Sherwin Williams “Grecian Ivory” and Benjamin Moore “Iron Mountain”) gives it a 21st-century spin.
“We moved here 15 years ago and became attached to this family-friendly neighborhood. We had been living just around the corner, but we could not pass up this home’s view.” —the homeowners
before: A patio, designed on the angle to take advantage of the golfcourse views, threw off the rest of the home’s symmetry.
after: A sweep of bluestone pavers
runs across the new patio on the back of the house and descends easily into the lawn.
BEFORE 66 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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CHANGE ORDERS
BEFORE KITCHEN
BEDROOM
DEN
Take a closer look at how residential designer Richard Long maximized this home for a young family.
CLOSET
BREAKFAST
Two Fronts
PATIO
DINING ROOM
Since the back of the house faces the golf course and was a large selling point, Richard paid equal attention to perfecting both the front and the back exteriors. With a steeper roofline created to house a garage, a wider motor court, and a slightly larger front door, the street side of the house exudes Arts and Crafts charm. An aligned rear terrace and simple landscaping clean up the back of the house
LIVING ROOM
BATH MAIN BEDROOM
BEDROOM MAIN BATH
Appropriate Additions
Raising the roofline was key to making the front garage work aesthetically. It also created additional space over the garage where Richard placed a guest suite. Other new areas include a mudroom and a laundry/ office. In the master bedroom, a new bay window tacks on a mere 55 square feet but is the homeowners’ favorite place to sit. One of the most unique additions is an outside water fountain for neighborhood kids to stop in for a refresh. Before, a master bedroom and guest bedroom were almost equal in size. Richard redesigned this wing, shrinking the guest room to allocate space for a larger, more functional master bed and bath, as well as two walk-in closets. Doing so also freed up space for a new sizeable hall closet.
AFTER
STORAGE
KITCHEN
OFFICE/ LAUNDRY
DEN
MUDROOM
DINING ROOM
LIVING ROOM
PORCH
Sleeping Quarters
CLOSET
PATIO
FOYER
BATH
HIS
BEDROOM MAIN BATH
HERS
MAIN BEDROOM
RESOURCES: Residential designer: Richard Long, Long & Long Design, longandlongdesign.com Interior designer: Anne Turner Carroll, ATC Interiors
+ Design, anneturnercarroll.com Builder: Nikolaus Mimikakis, Mimikakis Construction, mimikakisconstruction.com Landscape design: Peter Falkner, Falkner Gardens, falknergardens.com Art in entry hall: Carrie Carlton through Design Supply, designsupplyshop.com Green botanical photograph in living room: David Hillegas, davidhillegas.com Art above mantel in den: McKenzie Dove through Gallery 1930, artgallery1930.com Most light fixtures: Fixtures & Finishes, fixturesandfinishes.com Den upholstery and floor lamp, dining table and chairs, living room sofa and chairs: Design Supply Den chairs: Lee Industries, leeindustries.com Most rugs: Billy Brown Flooring, billybrownflooring.com Living room accent rug: Nashville Rug Gallery, nashvilleruggallery.com Hardware: Brandino Brass, brandinobrass.com Living room pillows and kitchen stool fabric: Heather Chadduck Textiles, heatherchadducktextiles.com Custom kitchen cabinets: Southern Grain Woodworks, southerngrain.net birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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Embracing Change RIVER BROOK DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION WON OVER THE WHOLE FAMILY WITH THIS MOUNTAIN BROOK RENOVATION. 68 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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M
Text by M A D I S O N P I N C O M B E / Photography by L A U R E Y G L E N N
artha and Robert Haley’s previous home was big enough to fit their family of five (plus two dogs), but as their kids got older and started leaving the nest, it began to feel cavernous. They found themselves searching for a cozier home that would serve their needs long term. After meeting Leigh and Kevin Misso of River Brook Design & Construction, the Haleys knew the duo would be the team to call when (and if) they found the perfect property. As soon as a new listing popped up in a neighborhood the Haleys liked, the couple invited the Missos to tag along for the showing. “We immediately started dreaming about what it could be,” Leigh says. The Haleys made an offer that day, and soon the house was theirs—but not everyone was excited. Because they had loved their old house so much, the Haley kids were understandably reluctant to embrace change. “I think they were all kind of worried about it,” Martha says. Before renovations even began, they gave their son, Peyton, a tour, including the windowless basement which would become his bedroom and hangout space. “He took one look and
before: Prior to the renovation, the kitchen was secluded in the middle of the main level. Although it had tons of cabinet space, it lacked open access to other living areas.
after: To create a more spacious kitchen and
open up the floorplan, the Missos moved the kitchen to the former living room and vaulted the ceilings. A walk-in pantry took the place of a hall closet to make up for lost storage.
LEFT: While a partial wall provides visual separation between the living room and kitchen, it also offered an opportunity for the Missos to create a stylish and functional vignette. The new kitchen pantry is located directly behind the drapery-covered wall. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
BEFORE
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TIP: Create drama with contrasts. Here and in the adjacent pantry, walls, ceiling, and trim are all painted Black Fox (SherwinWilliams), while furnishings and fabrics take on a lighter tone.
walked out of the house,” Martha says. Needless to say, there was a lot of work—both construction and convincing—to be done before everyone would feel at home. “We all wanted the house to have a lot of charm,” Leigh says. “And we wanted it to fit into the neighborhood. There’s a new custom build around most every corner, and we wanted the same level of detail applied to this house.” The home had good bones, but the square footage wasn’t used to its best advantage. In addition to cosmetic updates, the Haleys desired an open floorplan to encourage family time. They also wanted to add purposeful task areas such as a butler’s pantry and half bath. And because they planned to include a den in the basement, they decided they had no use for both a formal living room and casual family room on the main level. The solution was a major overhaul, and renovations began by gutting the house until only the foundation and exterior framing remained. The previously closed-off kitchen moved to the space once occupied by the formal living room. The master suite gained a raised ceiling, as well as a larger, more functional bathroom and closet. “We used all of the square footage we possibly could,” Robert says. “I don’t like wasted space. If you’ve got the room, you might as well use it.” Even though the children would be leaving the nest (and some had already flown), the Haleys and Missos made sure 70 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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BEFORE
before: Taupe walls, wainscoting, and a brass chandelier left the room feeling dated and predictable. The nolonger-needed door was closed off to make way for a new laundry on the other side.
after: The Haleys’ antique dining table and children’s portraits (by Kerri Gibbs from Portraits, Inc.) are the focal point of the dining room. A dark paint color covers the walls and trim, giving the room a cozy, elegant feel while putting the spotlight on family heirlooms.
For one-of-a-kind touches, the design team chose antique doors and ceiling beams, antiqued glass mirrors, marble countertops, and elegant gold fixtures. ABOVE: Mixing styles makes for a showstopping space in the dining room. Chairs with a modern shape and upholstered in a Greek key fabric gather around an antique birdcage table. ABOVE RIGHT: A pair of antique doors from Charles Phillips Antiques in Mobile adds interest and patina to the powder bath. RIGHT: For continuity, the same color was used in the dining room and butler’s pantry. Mirrored walls visually expand the narrow passageway. Vermont Danby marble countertops (Surface One) showcase custom curves.
photo by Mary Fehr
“The house is so perfect for the Haleys. Every single aspect of the plan meets a need.”
ABOVE: The Haley family from left: Jane (16), Robert, Martha, Martha Wright (21), and Peyton (18). FLOORPLAN, BELOW: Working within the existing exterior walls, the Missos realigned interior spaces to create rooms that suit the Haley family’s lifestyle.
— designer Leigh Misso
OUTDOOR MAIN BEDROOM
LIVING ROOM ENTRY
DINING ROOM
MAIN LEVEL AFTER
KITCHEN
MAIN LEVEL BEFORE
MUDROOM
KITCHEN
BUTLER’S PANTRY
CLOSET
FAMILY ROOM CLOSET
BATH
HALF BATH MAIN BATH
UTILITY/ LAUNDRY
FAMILY ROOM
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LIVING ROOM
MAIN BEDROOM
W
D
DINING ROOM ENTRY
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TIP: To visually increase the height of a room, hang drapery rods at ceiling height and allow drapes to just barely graze the floor.
BEFORE
before: The existing family room had an overabundance of bookcases and cabinets. An interior soffit lowered perimeter ceilings making the room feel cramped. after: Removing cabinets and
superfluous trim allowed for a crisper finish, a place for artwork, and consistent 9-foot ceilings in the family room. The fireplace received a new, modern surround.
TOP PHOTO: French doors open to the new, 400-square-foot covered porch, creating even more space for entertaining and easy flow between indoors and out. birminghamhomeandgarden.com
m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 73
ABOVE AND RIGHT: Previously dark and windowless, son Peyton’s bedroom now includes room for him and his friends. Built-in bunk beds accommodate overnight guests. For architectural interest, the entire room is wrapped in shiplap, but the inside of the bunks are painted “Black Fox” (Sherwin-Williams) for contrast. Each bunk has its own wall-mounted sconce for late-night visibility. Stairs were chosen over a ladder for added stability.
to include plenty of comforts for them. The upstairs was converted into a suite for the girls, complete with private bedrooms and baths. (In their former home, the girls shared a bathroom.) For all the kids, the basement garage was finished to create space for an epic media/entertainment room complete with a pool table, ping pong table, wet bar, and two ginormous TVs. Custom glass doors that accordionfold replaced the original garage doors to allow for indooroutdoor entertaining. Previously a “dungeon” as Martha called it, her son’s room on the lower level now features windows and four built-in bunk beds ready for his college friends to visit and stay the night. During the seven-month renovation, Leigh also worked 74 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
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TIP: Consider tapping into unused attic space to raise ceiling heights. The Haleys’ ceilings went from 9 feet to 14 feet in the master bedroom and kitchen.
BEFORE
before: The master bedroom offered plenty of natural light but the low ceilings felt oppressive. Dated cornice boards and clunky shutters crowded the wall space. after: Ceilings were raised from 9 to
14 feet. Roman shades replaced existing window treatments for a trim finish. The remodeled bath (left) was carved out of a labyrinth of three awkward spaces in the original plan. Combining the tub and shower into a single wet room made the most of the space and allowed for a new walk-in closet.
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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BEFORE
before: A backyard patio offered plenty of outdoor space but lacked appeal. after: To convert the
patio into an inviting outdoor living room, the Missos designed a covered, open-air porch with double-sided fireplace and large TV.
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before: Lacking any kind of architectural definition, the house had little if any character and appeared small from the street.
after: Dormer windows punctuate the expansive roof. Louvered shutters and a new front door offer custom details. A new pair of windows replaced the bay window to bring symmetry to facade. (Benjamin Moore paint colors: “White Dove” (brick) and “Revere Pewter” (shutters and trim).
BEFORE
with the Haleys on furnishing selections, deciding what to keep from their previous house and what they needed to purchase new. When construction was complete, the Missos convinced the Haleys to let them move their furnishings in “Property Brothers”-style and have a big reveal. “There was a wow factor when we saw it all finished,” Robert says. And their son, once a skeptic, immediately wanted to have people over—especially after seeing the basement renovation. Since settling in, the Haley family has used and enjoyed every inch of their house. Even with all of the kids at home during the pandemic lockdown, everyone had separate and communal spaces to spend time in without being on top of each other. Thanks to creative planning, the Haleys now have an “empty nest” home that also works when their nest is full.
RESOURCES: Design, construction, interiors: River Brook Design &
Construction, riverbrook.construction Landscape: Millhouse Howell Landscape Company, millhousehowell.com Dining chandelier: Visual Comfort from Mayer Lighting, mayerlighting.com Ceiling Beams: Evolutia, evolutiamade.com Appliances: AllSouth Appliance Group, allsouthappliance.net
The Haleys gained 1,600 square feet of additional living space by finishing the basement and closing in the garage. Accordion-fold glass doors open onto the driveway.
RECIPES
Wraps Rolls & Satisfying
Sandwich Suppers
TO ME, THE DAYS LEADING UP TO SUMMER mean less time spent at the grocery because of more fresh produce in my garden and in the farmers’ markets. These quick and easy recipes have few ingredients and minimal cleanup but are not lacking
Recipes and Photography by L E S L I E B YA R S R E G I S T E R
78 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
WHEN YOU NEED COVERAGE...
Turkey Caprese Wrap SERVES 4
DO IT WITH TRUITT!
1 (3.5-ounce) jar pesto 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 4 (8-inch) whole-wheat tortillas 8 ounces thinly sliced turkey 2 (4-ounce) fresh mozzarella balls, thinly sliced 2 heirloom tomatoes, thinly sliced 24 fresh basil leaves Salt and pepper In a small bowl, combine pesto and mayonnaise. Spread a thin layer on tortillas. Add layers of turkey, mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves evenly. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Starting from one side, roll tortillas, and secure with a wooden picks. Slice on the diagonal in between picks. (These can easily be cut smaller to be an appetizer.) They also can be warmed in a 300˚ oven until cheese melts.
BIRMINGHAM 205.254.3005 DAPHNE 251.625.2600
TALLASSEE 334.991.4688
TRUITTINSURANCE.COM
BBQ Sweet Potato Chips SERVES 4
2 sweet potatoes 2 tablespoons olive or canola oil 2 tablespoons BBQ rib rub Parchment sheets Preheat oven to 400˚. Thinly slice sweet potatoes (peel on), and place in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat both sides thoroughly. Add rib rub, and toss until well coated. Place on parchmentlined baking sheets, allowing plenty of space between slices. (You will probably need two baking sheets.) Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and crisp. m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 79
Helping you build with style 3912 2nd Ave So. Birmingham, AL (205) 510-4232 800-277-8888
schedule your appointment with a design consultant today
RECIPES
Oven-Fried Shrimp Po’ boys SERVES 4
1 egg 4 tablespoons flour 2 tablespoons beer 1 teaspoon garlic powder Salt to taste 2 tablespoons water 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Zesty Fridge Dill Pickles MAKES 1 PINT
3 to 4 pickling cucumbers, thinly sliced horizontally 2 garlic cloves, halved 1 jalapeño or other hot chile pepper, halved 3 to 4 sprigs fresh dill 1 teaspoon mustard seeds Pinch of red pepper flakes ½ cup water ½ cup white vinegar 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon sugar
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed 4 French po’boy rolls or one long baguette cut into fourths Jalapeño Tartar Sauce (recipe below) 2 heirloom tomatoes, thinly sliced 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce Cocktail sauce
Preheat oven to 400˚. Lightly spray baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. In a small bowl, lightly whisk egg; add flour, beer, garlic powder, salt, and water. Continue to whisk until batter is thoroughly combined and smooth. In another small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Cajun seasoning. Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel. Holding shrimp with a pick, dip shrimp into batter and then into breadcrumb mixture, and place on baking sheet. Repeat with remaining shrimp. Spray coated shrimp with nonstick cooking spray. Bake 10 minutes, flip shrimp over, and bake another 8 to 10 minutes. To assemble po’boys: Lightly broil bread halves. Spread Jalapeño Tartar Sauce on bottom half of each roll; add 2 tomato slices, shrimp, and shredded lettuce evenly. Spread the top of each roll with a thin layer of cocktail sauce. Pair top and bottom halves together, and dive in!
Jalapeño Tartar Sauce 1 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped Juice of ½ lemon
2 tablespoons chopped jalapeño Dash or 2 of hot sauce Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl, at least an hour in advance of serving if possible. It will keep for several days in the refrigerator.
Place cucumber slices, garlic, pepper half, and next 3 ingredients in a pint-size jar. (I like to arrange them so they are pretty on all sides.) Heat water, vinegar, salt, and sugar in a small saucepan on medium-high about 1 minute or until salt and sugar dissolve. Allow to cool for 5 minutes. Pour over cucumber mixture in jar. Allow to cool at room temperature, and then place in the refrigerator. Cucumbers will be lightly pickled after 1 day but best after 4 to 5 days. They will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator—if they aren’t eaten up quickly! 80 BH&G | m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1
birminghamhomeandgarden.com
Cuban Sliders MAKES 8 SLIDERS
8 slider buns, halved ½ cup yellow mustard 6 slices Swiss cheese, quartered 8 (½-ounce) thin slices ham 8 ounces pulled smoked pork 16 dill pickle slices 1 tablespoon butter To assemble sandwiches, spread a thin layer of mustard on the top and bottom of each bun. To the bottom bun, add a cheese quarter, ham slice, another cheese quarter, pork, another cheese quarter, pickles, and then top of bun. Repeat process with remaining buns. Melt butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, and add assembled sandwiches (in batches if necessary for fit). Lightly spray the top of the sandwiches with cooking spray. Heat another cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat until warm. Place on top of sandwiches, and gently press. Cook for an additional 6 to 8 minutes or until cheese is melted and sandwiches are heated through. Serve immediately.
ARTISAN OLIVE OIL & BALSAMICS ~ FOODIE GIFTS ETTA B ~ RONALDO JEWELRY ~ GOURMET MUSTARD SIGNATURE SPICES & TEAS ~ CHARCUTERIE ~ PRIVATE TASTINGS GIFT BASKETS AND MORE!
Learn from Leslie::For the
Oven-Fried Shrimp Po’boys, cut the bread almost in half but not all the way to create a hinge-like side. This will help hold in the shrimp and extra toppings.
For more recipes and fun entertaining ideas, visit dearpartydiary.com or birminghamhomeandgarden.com m a y. j u n e 2 0 2 1 | BH&G 81
261 RELE ST. LANE PARKE ~ 205.703.9003 CURBSIDE ~ LOCAL DELIVERY ~ WE SHIP WORLDWIDE MOUNTAINBROOKOLIVE.COM
FAVORITE FINDS... with
MISSIE CRAWFORD
SIT A SPELL These teal-colored ceramic garden stools are perfect for extra seating or as a side table for outdoor dining. $275, At Home, Homewood
CUSTOM COOKIES Delight guests (or treat your hostess) with these lovely floral cookies designed by Fultondale resident Angela Kelso Hundley. If they didn’t taste so delicious, you would think they are too pretty to eat! Prices start at $38 per dozen, IG @justforfuncookies
GARDENPARTY Summer is here. That means outdoor entertaining and leisurely days in the garden. Here are a few essentials to get your party started.
A DRESS FOR ANY OCCASSION Designed by Carolina DeSouza and handmade in Colombia, this 100% cotton sundress is perfect for long Friday lunches outdoors. $450, Beauté Therapie
PRETTY PLATES Designer Laura Park takes her fabric designs tabletop. These cocktail-size paper plates ($11.50) and napkins ($10) are guestworthy thanks to their vibrant colors and gold rim. Three Sheets, Homewood
STEP ON IT Made in Spain, these Paloma Barcelo wedges come in baby blue and white. This tone-ontone platform double-band wedge completes your attire for that fabulous garden party this summer. $330, Gus Mayer, The Summit
DRINK UP Handblown glass tumblers in emerald and azure elevate any cocktail or iced tea. Sold in sets of four. $64, shophammett.com
FRAGRANT BEAUTY Is there anything better than plucking your own lemon for a citrus twist? Container lemon trees are both pretty and tasty. Prices vary, Petals from the Past, Jemison, Alabama
MISSIE CRAWFORD has over 25 years of experience styling fashion, lifestyle, tabletop, and interiors. She began her career working for clients such as J. Crew and Cindy Crawford. Currently, her styling expertise can be seen in images for Chick-fil-A, Food and Wine, All Recipes, and Edible Arrangements. With a client-first attitude, Missie creates a look that is clean, fresh, simple, and focused without sacrificing style.
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PAINT BY NUMBER These easy paint-bynumbers florals are one party favor that everyone can appreciate. Available in hydrangea, succulents, and more. $45, Marguerite’s Conceits, Mountain Brook Village birminghamhomeandgarden.com
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