FIX May/June 2013

your mid-south home and garden magazine

Elegant outdoor living may • june 2013

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m ag a z i n e Fix magazine is dedicated to providing local information about all things home and garden.

Associate Publisher

Amy Mills

amy.mills@scripps.com Editor

Holly Whitfield

editor@memphisfixmagazine.com Contributors

Molly Fromkin Sarah Matheny Gordon Brad Shapiro

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901.942.3201

Photography

Nathan Berry Marc Burford Jason Terrell

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FIX 495 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103 901.529.6513 www.memphisfixmagazine.com FIX is a bi-monthly magazine delivering essential local information on home design, remodeling, repair and restoration. It is published by E.W. Scripps Company. Opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors are not those of FIX. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Copyright 2013.

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May/June 2013 Cover Photo by MARC BURFORD

Fresh Air Elegant outdoor living ✶ ✶ ✶

Features In the Flyway 20 Classical Luxury 26 Captivating Courtyard 32 Placid Paradise 38 Return to the Garden • Garden Contest Finalists 46 Departments Artist Spotlight • John Sadowski 16 Pros Who Know • Ken Rash’s Inc. 42 Neat Fix 50 Garden Fix 52 Green Fix 54 Hospitality Fix 58 Ask the Architect 60 Decór Fix 62

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From The Editor

I

s it just me, or did it seem like winter had a hard time letting go of us this year? I felt like we were all a bit more excited than usual to welcome spring, and a bit more thankful for the dogwood blooms and the azaleas bursting with white and fuchsia. FIX Magazine once again dedicates our May/June issue to the art of outdoor living. Every year, we are amazed to find more hidden gems in every corner of the Mid-South that show us new

ways to enjoy pools, patios, and lawns. Get ready to explore the rustic but elegant grounds of an Arkansas duck hunting lodge, a cozy courtyard in East Memphis, and a luxurious outdoor building that will forever redefine the term “pool house."

In addition to these real-life examples of outdoor living at its finest, we have loads of practical how-tos: vegetable gardening, cleaning your patio, planning an outdoor gathering, and the answer to the ultimate summer question: how to grill the perfect steak. Full disclosure: I’m preparing to move to a new neighborhood, and while putting together this issue, I was gathering my own ideas for my future abode’s outdoor spaces. I hope you’ll enjoy the pretty and practical tips as much as I did!

Don’t forget, we are still accepting entries to our 2013 Garden Contest, and we’ve extended the deadline to June 14 to give your gardens a chance to bloom, blossom, and grow before you snap some photos and submit. See page 8 for entry details and prize information. Decide to try out something you see in FIX? Have another creative home project you’ve completed? I’d love to hear about it! Drop me a line at editor@memphisfixmagazine. com or post your ideas on our Facebook page.

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Advertiser Directory FIX Home and Garden Magazine is free because of our wonderful advertisers and sponsors. If you visit one of these local businesses, let them know you saw them in FIX!

Architectural Stoneworks 57 Bud Davis Cadillac 41 Chapman Landscape 53 Choate’s Air Conditioning and Heating 55 Corporate Air 49 Christie Cut Stone 64 Dave Moore Companies 25 First Fruit Collections 35 First State Bank 19, 37 Fresh Perspective Design & Decór 4 Gates Lumber 6, 31 Gurley’s Azalea Garden 14-15 Ken Rash 63 Kitchens Unlimited 11 Lamp Shade House 12 Magnolia Lighting 7 Marble and Granite Products 9 Memphis Boat Center 48 Metal Depot 51 Michael Hatcher 13 Natural Stone 43 Quality Landscape 17 Serenity Hardscapes 61 Seth’s Lighting 51 Southaven Supply 2-3 Southern Screens 45 Stanley Steemer 5 Venice Tile 59

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Artist Spotlight Photos by Nathan Berry

J

ohn Sadowski can’t remember visiting an art museum or gallery while he was growing up, although he has always loved art. “I remember in first grade reading class, I would study the illustrations instead of following the reading,” he recalls with a laugh. His mother ordered the TimeLife Art Library, which delivered a book on a different artist every month. “I devoured these books,” John says. In college, John did not study art, though he spent much time observing the art classes’ work in the halls and studying the notes they left on chalkboards. “I loved the smell of paints and art materials,” he recalls. “But the only college art class that I took was for art teachers. I remember my instructor wrote a note on my portfolio saying that I had good design skills.”

John graduated, built a family and a career as a teacher and principal, and his painting often took a backseat to his other responsibilities. “As our children got older, we began visiting museums and galleries when we traveled,” he says. “One time I dragged the entire family through the Gallery of Art in thirty minutes!” He recalls the moment when he decided to take the next step with his own work. “My wife Theresa suggested that I stop painting the typical ‘calendar’ pictures...and start painting from things that I saw and experienced,” he remembers.

John’s inspiration comes from some of his favorite places: the French Quarter in New Orleans, Oxford, Miss., Greenwich Village in New York City, and Memphis. His work continues to evolve. “Over time, I began to gain an interest in abstract or nonrepresentational art,” he says. “This added a real challenge to my work.”

After thirty-four years as a public school educator, John began to think about retiring. On his way home from collecting the necessary retirement paperwork, he decided to stop by the Artists on Central Gallery (now Gallery 56) to see if there were any new pieces on display. When he arrived, the curator explained that an upcoming show had been cancelled and asked if he wanted to display some of his own work.

“It was one of those moments where you look up in the sky and wonder if someone is trying to tell you something,” John says.

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John Sadowski

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clock-wise from top left: Blissful Notoriety, 46"x32" acrylic on canvas Transcending Substance, 10"x10", acrylic on canvas Andertons, 48"x24", oil on canvas Better Days, 20"x8", oil on canvas Blue Monkey, 22"x28", oil on canvas Significant Obscurity, 52"x34", acrylic on canvas

He painted for nearly six weeks straight to prepare for his first show, “Passion to Paint”, where he sold twenty-five pieces.

He now has artwork in four galleries. He credits his wife and mother as instrumental in encouraging him to pursue his talent, as well as the paternal grandmother he never met, but who has a family legacy as an artistic, creative woman. “I spent so many years reading and studying about art on my own,” John shares. “My story is an example of preparation meeting opportunity at a perfect time.”

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What Lenders Would Tell You

If You Asked

W

hen the sun begins to shine and the flowers begin to bloom, home projects, whether indoor or outdoor, become top of mind for many homeowners. Depending on the size of the project, requesting assistance from a financial lender may be necessary to make your dreams a reality.

Visiting a financial institution and requesting a loan can be intimidating. And while lenders strive to make the process easy and stress free, even families with excellent scores get anxious at the thought of having their loan request denied.

In an effort to eliminate some of the stress and anxiety of visiting your bank and requesting a loan, here are a few things lenders would tell you about the financing process if they were to be asked:

“We really want to make you a loan if there is any possible way to do so.”

person you have co-signed for misses a payment, then you missed it too. Chances are that you might not even know that there is a problem with the loan until it’s too late and the damage has already been done.

“When does much become too much?”

Good lenders will calculate one very important ratio that determines a person’s ability to pay their debts. It is called the debt to income ratio. It is calculated by taking a loan applicant’s existing monthly payment obligations for loans and credit cards and add the new payment for the loan being requested. That total is then divided by the gross pay for the month before any taxes or other deductions are subtracted.

If the result is more than 45%, you need to ask yourself the

The common personality traits of most good lenders include a terrible fear of having to turn someone down and an overwhelming desire to fulfill each loan request. So, to the extent that the policies and regulations permit, lenders are going to do their best to find a way to approve your loan request.

“Please stop us if our lingo is difficult to understand.”

Every profession has its own set of technical jargon, abbreviations and acronyms. You may have heard about debits, credits, LTV, DTI, and beacons, but if you don’t understand these terms, then we are not communicating with you well.

Ask again until you completely understand.

“Be prepared to explain the purpose of your loan request.”

There are reasons why lenders ask the purpose for your loan request. Financial representatives are charged by operating policies and there are certain uses of loan funds that are considered not acceptable, thus the reason for the question. You need to be prepared to give the reason and ‘personal reasons’ will not typically be a sufficient response.

“Helping friends and family can be dangerous.”

When asked to co-sign for friends and family, be prepared to say “no”. Many parents, siblings, and good friends have ruined their own credit by not being able to say that little word. If the

tough question, “Do I really need this loan?” If your answer is still yes, be prepared for a higher rate and the requirement of additional collateral. Again, it is the goal of the lender to help finance your project.

While it often appears to be a daunting task, requesting a loan should not be a scary situation. Lenders are partners ready to help meet your needs and being educated on the process provides a good and positive experience for all involved.

Since 1887, First State has dedicated itself to providing our customers with the best possible financial services. Rooted in banking, that commitment has grown to cover a complete and wide ranging selection of products and services. Today, a vibrant and growing First State offers customers across the state of Tennessee the convenience of having a multitude of financial services available from a familiar and trusted company. We look forward to the opportunity of offering More For You! For more information, visit us at www.first-state.net. m ay • j u n e 2 0 1 3 19

In the

Flyway Photos by Marc Burford

The first stop for birds migrating south on the Mississippi Flyway, Stan Jones Mallard Lodge is a testament to a Southerner’s penchant for outdoor living.

Contractor Keith White Decking Contractor Mark Sims Interior Woodworking Welby Young Landscape Architect David McGittigan Landscape Construction Supervisor Jeff Petterson Landscaping Michael Hatcher and Associates Lodge Art Mark Atwater, Sean Shrum

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E

ach winter, tens of thousands of ducks pass through the portion of Arkansas where the Black and Cache rivers converge, making it the best duck hunting area in the South.

For five generations, Stan Jones’ family has farmed rice in the Clover Bend area.

They hunt ducks themselves and lead other would-be hunters who come from across the country each year. Stan has been a hunter since he was five years old and ran his own club, Cat-Tail Hunting Club, for thirty years. He took a break from the sporting life several years ago, after his son passed away. “It took a lot

out of me,” he recalls. “After six or seven years, I was rejuvenated. I decided that I was going to build a hunting lodge the way I knew how, in a way that enhances and accentuates the land.”

With renewed purpose, Stan worked with architects, designers, landscapers, and artisans to fulfill his vision. The 15,000 square foot lodge boasts twelve bedrooms, a game room, conference rooms, and a commercial kitchen, where the onsite chef, Jay Taggert, creates fivestar meals for visitors and events. It’s the outdoor entertaining areas and the grounds, however, that steal the show.

The 2,000-acre property is home to an amphitheater, shooting range, skeet target range, a five-man stand, and a lake. “You are driving through fields, and then you come around the corner to the entrance of the lodge,” describes Michael Hatcher, landscape contractor for the project. “There is an alley of columnar Hornbeams leading up to the building. It really creates a sense of arrival.”

Behind the lodge lies an outdoor entertainment oasis, perfect for dining outside, soaking in the hot tub, or just enjoying the view. Covered pavilions with fire pits invite guests to relax and enjoy

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a meal or a cocktail in comfort regardless of the season. A 150-foot water feature flows through the area, creating a soothing and peaceful environment for the eyes and ears. Several small waterfalls weave among the retaining walls, part of the 700 tons of stone and boulder incorporated in the wood structures. A lighting system organically recessed into the landscaping gives the outdoor space a new feel after the sun goes down. “We illuminated the walkways, and accentuated certain elements of the landscape and water features,” Michael explains.

David, the designer, worked with Stan to select native plants, including azaleas, dogwoods, redbuds, hydrangeas, coneflower, and hostas. “We emulated a very natural setting,” David explains. “We planted species that bloom in varying cycles to keep the view interesting through the seasons.” The property boasts the largest oak tree in the county.

“It’s over 200 years old,” Stan says. “It takes about four people to reach around the trunk; it’s really something to see.”

The property took about fourteen months to complete, and was finished in September of 2012. “Once we started seeing things come together, the project took on a life and a feel of its own,” Michael explains. “Stan didn’t hold back when we had new ideas or when the vision evolved.”

Hunting is open from November through January for duck, pheasant, and goose. A thousand people each year visit the lodge during the season. “If I said there were 30,000 ducks out here, I might be underestimating,” Michael laughs. “There were so many, they almost looked like blackbirds in a flock.”

The rest of the year, the Stan Jones Mallard Lodge hosts retreats, events, and even weddings. Stan has plans to share his dream lodge with those who will appreciate the restful, natural atmosphere. He hopes to invite injured veterans to retreats at the lodge through a program called Wounded Warriors. At the end of March, nearly 200 Boy Scouts and adults camped out in a specially designated area beside the lake that Stan built himself. “This is a way that I can give back,” he says. “I wanted to create a place where people can come to enjoy all that God has created.”

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In the Flyway

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In the Flyway

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Classical

Luxury Photos by Nathan Berry

Architect Brad Shapiro Landscape Architect Joe Baasch Landscape Installation Terra Systems Builder Ken Garland Interior Designer Ken Burnett Glass-Panel Doors Gates Lumber

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T

he classically-inspired courtyard and pool house at the residence of Jimmy and Becky Winemiller in Memphis is a luxurious but relaxed retreat. A year and a half ago, the couple moved into the existing home, which is situated on two back-to-back lots. When the Winemillers decided to put in a pool and pool house on the back lot, they called on a talented team to help them reinvent the property. Brad Shapiro, the home’s original architect, worked with builder Ken Garland, designer Ken Burnett, and landscape architect Joe Baasch to realize the Winemillers’ elegantly comfortable vision.

“Since the location of the pool was removed from the main house, the Winemillers wanted to build a pool house that was convenient as well as a pleasure to use in all seasons,” Shapiro explains.

“They were very interested in creating a space that could be completely opened up to the pool, blurring the barrier between inside and outside.” In order to achieve this blending of interior and exterior space, the building team installed a wall of glass panels that open accordion-style. “Using stone as the interior wall material and a wood vaulted ceiling create a resort cabana feel,” Shapiro describes. The same material

from around the pool is repeated in the pool house’s interior floor, furthering the concept of a seamless transition from outdoors to indoors.

The Winemillers worked with interior designer Ken Burnett of Little Rock, who also designed their previous home. “For this project, we didn’t want to recreate the typical pool house,” he explains. “We wanted a warm, comfortable gathering place, one that they can enjoy even in the winter.” For the perfect mix of practicality and luxury, Burnett chose indoor-outdoor furniture that is waterresistant but immensely comfortable.

Double-cane chairs and a handmade

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Classical Luxury

table with a limestone top give a hint of tropical vacation style. “These pieces are high-quality, but never overdone,” Burnett explains. He chose light colors to keep the space comfortable and subtle. The painting was commissioned to match the soft hues, and the Chapman lamp was custom-finished to match the honey color of the cane furniture. A mermaid sculpture serves as the base for the glass

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coffee table, an artistically nautical touch.

“I always do an interesting coffee table that kind of serves as a centerpiece,” the designer shares.

The wall around the backyard protects both the Winemillers’ privacy and their neighbors’ view, but the cutouts in the wall break up the line in an almost colonnadelike style. The entire space has a very classical feel, evoking the courtyard of a

Mediterranean villa. This effect is mostly due to the strict adherence to symmetry: the line of sight stretches through the front door and out the back, up the steps to the pool, and culminates in the lamp centered on the table in the pool house.

“We located the pool house on an axis with the center gallery of the house,” Shapiro shares. “It provides that visual connection to the main house.”

“We wanted to make this area look like it had always been here,” explains builder Ken Garland. “We didn’t want it to look like an afterthought, so we used all of the same materials. We used the same style of buttercream limestone, from Christie Cut Stone, and peacock concrete pavers from the main house to give a consistent look,” he says. When they couldn’t find a perfect match for the home’s slate roof,

they installed a copper roof for a classic look with character. “In the next few years, the bright copper will continue to tone down,” Garland explains. “It will give the pool house an established, classic look.” He notes that careful attention to details, like choosing a 4-inch limestone cap rather than the standard 2-inch cap, can make all the difference to the overall finished space.

In addition to the materials, the overall design of the property had to be considered. “With the detached garage, the pool house is the third building on the site,” Shapiro says. “It was a challenge to make sure that all of the buildings worked together to create a pleasing composition.”

Going along with the classical feel, the loggia-style outdoor kitchen and dining area uses the same rustic wood elements and soft colors in the furniture as the pool house. “The homeowners wanted this entire backyard to feel like a ‘resort retreat’, so we designed and installed a full kitchen, lounge area, TV and fireplace,” architect Shapiro explains.

Classical Luxury

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W inner Make a

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Captivating courtyard Photos by Nathan Berry

architect charles shipp Contractor CHIP TAYLOE Landscape Architect HARRIET MCGEORGE Landscape INSTALLATION QUALITY LANDSCAPE + GARDEN CENTER FOUNTAIN memphis water works

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W

hen Bill and Jan Hicky returned to Memphis a few years ago, their new home required some work. While they spent nearly the first year working on remodeling the downstairs, the two decided to devote the next few months to transforming their back patio from an unusable, out-of-date space to a comfortable, stylish courtyard. The home’s original back porch ended just a few steps from the back door, and large tree roots had caused the deck to buckle and slope. Another tree was nearly leaning on the home. The first owners had installed an oversized Jacuzzi

that sat underneath the bedroom’s bay windows, causing water damage to the window frame. The second owner wasn’t interested in using the hot tub, so they covered the expansive piece with green Astroturf.

The first steps were to rip up the deck and clear both of the problem trees; then the Jacuzzi was removed and the water damage repaired. Jan, who has known landscape architect Harriet McGeorge for many years, called up her old friend for help with the next steps. “I told her ‘you have a task ahead of you!’” Jan recalls. “She said she was more than up to it!” The Hickys tore out the rest of the

existing backyard paving and structures and gave Harriet a blank slate with which to work.

The Hickys had three requests: a fountain, ledges to sit on, and colorful blooming plants. Working with architect Charles Ship, Harriet designed a classy, comfortable covered porch, patio and pathway to create a variety of different seating areas, the perfect setting for a cocktail party. Now when the homeowners or their guests exit through the back doors, they are immediately greeted with a sizable farmhouse table that can seat up to eight. “We found this in Hot Springs,” Jan says of the table. “We

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CaptivatingCourtyard

really just like to collect pieces wherever we go.” A charming metal stand serves as a mini-bar, stocked with colorful tumblers and accessories. Jan found an antique metal screen stand in Heber Springs, Arkansas, and creatively installed it as wall art.

In the winter, the Hickys have portable heaters placed throughout the space and a roaring fireplace and seating area to keep things warm. A television mounted above the mantel is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while watching a game. “We had a few warmer nights now and then early in the year,” Jan recalls.

“We could come out here and watch the bowl games right next to the fire.” The ceiling of the covered area is painted blue, a trick for discouraging bird nesting.

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“They do it in Charleston. Because the birds think that the blue ceiling is the sky, they won’t roost up in the corners,” Jan shares.

The patio’s centerpiece is the antique fountain from Palladio Group. As the ivy continues to grow in over the next few years, the fountain will have all of the charms of a courtyard water feature that has been established for decades. In the very early spring, the Hickys enjoy rows of colorful pansies along the ledges, and by summer they’ll have a bounty of colorful begonias to brighten their backyard.

There are plenty of places to perch in the courtyard. Two sunbathing chairs face the fountain, while an outdoor dining table is another option for seating. Several benches and of course the brick ledges

make the Hickys’ outdoor space ideal for an evening of mingling with guests or a relaxing moment of solitary repose.

“Harriet planned all of the uplighting for the trees and landscaping lighting,” Jan shares. “It’s really wonderful, especially when the lanterns are lit as well.”

Along the side of the home is a narrow passageway perfect for a secretgarden style bench and potting stand for Jan’s constant gardening projects. A gate at the end of the charming path opens to the front of the house; for a party, the gate could be opened to allow guests to enter directly into the party space.

“In decent weather, this just adds a lot of square footage of living space,” Jan shares. “We think of this as an extension of our home.”

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Placid

Paradise Photos by Nathan Berry

Like something out of a postcard, Dr. Albert and Sonia Fonticiella’s outdoor living space in Paragould, Arkansas, is a resort-like oasis.

“T

hey wanted something unique and different,” says Brian Brewer, owner of Brewer’s Pool and Landscaping, which

celebrates their 50th year in busines this year. He worked with the homeowners to create the breathtaking space. “The process began with us sitting down with the Fonticiellas, listening to their wants and needs, then doing all of the prep work,” Brian explains. Because the building team was working long-distance, taking accurate measurements and elevations, gaining a detailed understanding of the terrain, and preparing for any drainage issues were all especially necessary. “We created our drawings, then showed Albert and Sonia,” Brian recalls. The two loved all of the plans, and the construction process began immediately.

Though the project was completed in about four months, the winter weather during the construction time proved to be a challenge. “We actually had to build a tent over the pool so that we could keep working even during the snow,” Brian laughs. “If the weather changes, we just adapt to get the job done.” The end result is a stunning three-level grotto with a gorgeous view of the back property. The covered porch is outfitted with comfortable furniture, making the space essentially an outdoor living room. The second level is an infinity-edge pool, with Pennsylvania blue stone used for m ay • j u n e 2 0 1 3

39

the coping borders and wall caps. A special mix for the concrete decking around the pool gives a high-end, unique finish.

Water from the pool spills over the infinity edge down to the third level, where the falling water creates a sort of wall around the hot tub, giving the space a private, lagoon-like feel. Brian and his team paid special attention to the lighting around the pool and for the landscaping. “I think the pool almost looks more stunning at night,” he shares. A favorite spot for photo shoots and senior photos, the Fonticiellas’ outdoor oasis is a success. “They like to sit on their back porch and look at the vanishing edge and the waterfall,” Brian shares. With a beautiful backdrop of lawn and trees, the back porch provides the perfect place to observe turkey, deer, and other wildlife.

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Pros Who Know Photos by Jason Terrell

Ken Rash’s

F

orty-two years ago the Rash family opened “Ken Rash’s Pool and Patio” on Summer Avenue in Memphis. At the time, it was one of the few places in town to buy outdoor furniture and pool supplies. The business came

about as a result of Mr. Rash’s desire to be his own boss, and a full year of thorough research and planning. “He traveled all over the country, looking at stores, talking to manufacturers and learning about the industry,” Mrs. Ken Rash explains. This dedicated and enthusiastic approach to outdoor living has kept the family business going strong for nearly a half-century.

“At first we just had the duplex, then we added to the property, then we added a second floor...” laughs Mrs. Ken Rash’s daughter Camille, who has worked at the store since she was a teenager. “It’s been a constant evolution.”

Originally

specializing

in

basic

tables

and chairs for the outdoors, along with pool toys, supplies and chemicals, Ken Rash’s has expanded their inventory and focused on the highest quality outdoor furnishings, as well as their most famous product: The Big Green Egg grill. Mrs. Ken Rash laughs as she explains that she’s heard that some people call her “the big green egg lady”, a moniker that she holds with pride. “We’re master dealers for these grills, and they are very popular,” she explains. The store gives demonstrations on The Big Green Eggs every Saturday, serving their visitors anything from breakfast foods to freshly baked cookies.

“Yes, you can cook all of these things in the Egg,” Camille laughs.

“I like to tell people that all three of my daughters started here when they were thirteen, helping out in the summers,” Mrs. Ken Rash says. Her daughter Lawrie owns Ken Rash’s of Arkansas in Little Rock, while Camille works at the Summer Avenue store; their sister Allison worked at the business until her family moved several years ago. A third generation has joined the ranks of Ken Rash’s, as Lawrie’s daughter Mrs. Ken Rash (seated), Whitney Edwards (left) and Camille Blake

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Pros Who Know

store team. “We are able to offer a more personal experience than a large chain store,” Whitney shares. “Yesterday I saw my aunt Camille sit down with fifteen different fabrics to help a customer find the perfect pillows for her patio sofa.” Whitney explains that customers will even email photos of their outdoor spaces so that the educated staff can help coordinate pieces and building materials. Camille notes that the store keeps up on popular trends in outdoor living, including long-lasting teak furniture and one-of-a-kind items. “The furniture that we have here is a worthwhile investment,” she says. “It will feel and look the same even decades from now. A lower quality product may look the same at first, but you’ll notice the wear after just one season.” After forty-two years, Mrs. Ken Rash has perfected the art of evolving to fit her customers’ needs while remaining true to the staples of the store’s success. “Being in a family business is terrific,” she shares.

“I’ve never worked anywhere else, but I don’t think it gets any better than this.”

W

Ken Rash’s features large interior and exterior showrooms. A newly-installed, fully functional kitchen will demonstrate the kinds of appliances, furniture, and accessories that homeowners can enjoy in their own backyard.

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Return to the

Garden Photos by Nathan Berry

From sprawling, barely-tamed spaces to ornamental gardens to cozy sitting areas, the Mid-South is full of a variety of unique and beautiful approaches to lawn and garden tending.

Last spring, a number of local homeowners took the time to share their labors of love with FIX magazine. We were delighted to explore these lovely spaces and the hospitable folks behind them. Join us as we revisit each of the five 2012 Garden Contest finalists.

Eclectic Eden

Don and Barb Keith’s Bartlett backyard is filled with personality and attention to detail. Water features and ornamental pieces create a whimsical, colorful, and hospitable space. The garden is a lush and colorful place filled with hostas and azaleas. As for perennials, the couple tends to a variety of gladiolas, sunflowers, echinacea, herbs, daylilies, and gardenia bushes. The space is filled with mature sweet gum trees, a huge pecan tree, and a fifteen-foot tall Japanese maple.

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Up the Garden Path

Steve and Kace Lykins’ meadow-like backyard garden in Eads is a relaxing, pleasant space full of simple pleasures. A flagstone-paved patio nestled next to a low stone wall creates a perch for the two to enjoy their cast iron fire pit. A gurgling fountain provides soothing sounds, and a gallery of colorful wildflowers bloom in stone-lined beds. The covered patio is a sheltered spot for weather observation and the hammock provides a shady respite from the summer sun.

Peaceful Pathways

Bob and Johann DelPriore’s Collierville garden is distinguished by pathways that meander through the central pine grove and continue around the perimeter of the lawn. Low-light trees and plants like dogwoods, azaleas, and hydrangeas populate the garden, along with a bounty of flowering trees like bright yellow kerrias, camellias, and soft white blooms from a Japanese snowbell tree. A collection of unique ornamental pieces and create charming vignettes that even the local wildlife seem to enjoy.

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Garden Resort

Though their Cordova backyard is just 1/3 acre, Mike and Kandi Reilly’s garden seems like a much larger outdoor haven. A lagoon-like pool and tiki hut for grilling and dining make up the backyard patio area; a few steps down, flowering plants surround a wooden swing and rows of evergreens line the fence. The couple has personalized their space with quirky signs and found objects, like the deer skull they found at Shelby Farms.

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Shades of Green

Tucked into a charming Bartlett neighborhood, Tom and Laurie Rieman’s exquisite backyard garden awaits exploration. Winners of the 2012 Garden Contest, their space brims with nearly two hundred varieties of plants and a meticulously designed hardscape.

Terraced beds break up the slope of the front lawn, a pergola covers the front porch, and firethorn vines form a diamond-pattern on the side of the garage. In the backyard, the waterfall, red Japanese-style bridge and pond give a little formality to the space. Angel-wing begonias hang from the branches of a sweetgum tree, while native orchids provide a pretty purple bloom during the spring. White lotuses float serenely on the surface of the pond while darting koi fish provide glimpses of orange-red. A screened-in sun porch off of the home’s master bedroom completes the space.

Do you know someone who has a green thumb?

Whether it’s sunny, shady, or somewhere in between, we want to hear about the great gardens of the Mid-South. Email editor@ memphisfixmagazine.com with photos and descriptions of the lawn or garden. For more information on the $1200 in prizes for our annual Garden Contest winner, see page 8.

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neat fix

1

Move all furniture, planters, and other items out of the way.

Clean your ceiling, fans, and light fixtures with a long-handled duster or carefully use a heavyduty cloth and ladder.

A well-kept porch, patio, or lawn can be just like another room in your home.

Dedicate a weekend and a little elbow grease and you can have your space prepped for outdoor entertaining. Better yet, enlist a friend or family member to help you work through this simple checklist, then sit back and enjoy your hard work with a cold drink!

2

If you have outdoor plants, you’ll need easy access to a hose or watering can to keep your garden green during the hottest months. Make sure your hose is in good repair and easy to access. Now, spray off your patio to get rid of loose dirt and debris.

4

3

Tame your plants by pulling weeds around your paved or stone patio, and trim shrubs and trees. A little work goes a long way in creating a ordered atmosphere outdoors.

Wipe down your outdoor furniture and wash cushions. Consider giving your furniture a fresh coat of paint, a new stain, or a rustresistant coating. Pillows and cushions not make it through the winter? Give your tables and chairs a new look without breaking the bank by finding fresh cushions.

5

Clean and inspect your grill and make sure that you’re stocked up on necessities like charcoal, gas, utensils, and cleaning supplies.

Have your outdoor cooking station set up and ready to go for impromptu cookouts.

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6

Replant flowers, repot plants as needed, and discard any broken or cracked containers. Consider sunlight hours when placing plants, and arrange unique planters in vignettes for visual interest.

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garden fix

Sunny days and warm breezes

giving you the gardening bug? Don’t worry, it’s not too late to plant some of your favorite summer staples like beans, cucumbers, peppers, and squash. You can count on warm soil to speed up seed germination, or for plants like tomatoes, you may want to consider buying transplants from a local nursery.

Cucumbers

Staking vine varieties can save garden space, or try one of the many bush varieties. Cukes need steady moisture, so try to keep your plants watered if there are a few dry days.

Beans

Squash

If you’ve ever grown zucchini, you know how bountiful these varieties can be. Bush varieties are great for planting in containers on patios or decks.

Tomatoes

Now is the time to plant pole beans and bush beans. Stagger your planting by a few days so that you can enjoy a consistent harvest.

However you say it, a tomato is the perfect summer fruit to bring flavor and aroma to your garden. Don’t forget that tomatoes favor lots of direct sunlight.

Peppers

Herbs

From spicy to savory-sweet, peppers are a versatile and delicious garden vegetable. Sweet peppers mature in 60-90 days, while hot peppers can take several months

Heat-loving herbs like basil, thyme, and sage will smell and look wonderful next to complementary vegetables in your garden.

T M

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green fix

1

For maximum absorption and efficiency, water your lawn and other plants early in the morning.

2

Place sprinklers and irrigation systems carefully to avoid “watering” the sidewalk or street.

3 4

Use timers on your watering systems to control the amount of water that you use.

For homeowners with pools, use a pool pump with a timer and only run when necessary. Cover your pool to prevent evaporation and conserve water.

5

Have your AC inspected yearly, make sure that filters are changed regularly, and clean ducts of dust and debris.

6

there are ways to lower your energy costs

without melting away, whether you’re aiming to keep cool by staying inside during the summer months or planning to catch some rays while mowing the lawn, . Here are several tips for homeowners looking to stay cool, conserve water, and make the most of the MidSouth’s warmest months.

or when you are away from home longer than 4 hours.

Resist the urge to turn down the thermostat. Keep it at 78 degrees or higher to help maintain a constant temperature and lower costs.

9

7

10

Use fans and close the shades curtains on the sunny side of your home to make it feel up to 5 degrees cooler

8

Use a programmable thermostat to up the temperature at night,

54

m ay • j u n e 2 0 1 3

Install window treatments and coverings like shades, insulated panels, and reflective films that can stop heat gain through your windows.

Avoid placing lamps or TVs near your air conditioning thermostat, which can sense heat from these appliances and run longer than necessary.

11

Avoid using the oven or stove on the hottest days. Instead, use a microwave, or even better, grill outdoors.

Keep in mind that other appliances like TVs, computers, and even stereos can release heat that adds up in increasing the temperature in your home.

12

Install efficient lighting that runs cooler.

Incandescent lights only use about 10%-15% of their energy on light; the rest is heat.

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hospitality fix Recipe by Sarah Matheny Gordon

The Perfect Summer Steak

C

elebrate the arrival of grilling season and impress your family and friends with this easy method for grilling a steakhouse-quality steak, right in your own backyard. You can cook a delicious steak perfectly on a gas or charcoal grill by following a few simple steps.

RECIPE Steakhouse-style steaks (serves 4) 4 ( ½ – ¾ lb.) steaks, 1 ½” thick sprinkled with salt, at room temperature (see How-To for cut recommendations) Pat the steaks dry on each side. Season with fresh cracked pepper. Place steaks on the hottest part of a clean grill until evenly seared, 2-3 minutes. (The steaks may stick, but will release when a nice seared crust has formed.) Flip the steaks and sear on other side, 2-3 minutes.

Now that the steaks are well browned on both sides, move them to the cooler section of the grill. Cook for an additional 6-8 minutes for medium rare, or until a meat thermometer reads 125-130 degrees when inserted into the center of the meat (not touching the bone).

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k

How To First choose the right cut. The extra cost for a higher quality

prepare the grill For searing the outside of the

beef is well worth it. Find the best balance of tenderness and flavor

steaks, they must be on an extremely hot surface and as close

in cuts from the back of the cow, like the rib eye, Porterhouse,

to the heat source as possible. Pat them dry before placing on

New York strip, T-Bone, or from the leaner tenderloin, such as

the grill to properly sear. Then, to finish cooking the inside, they

filet. Choose steaks that are marbled with thin ribbons of white

should be moved to a lower heat or indirect heat. If you are using

fat throughout.

a gas grill, heat one side (or one burner) to the highest possible

Once you have selected your cut of beef, make sure your steaks are all cut to uniform thickness of about 1 ½ inches. This is important for achieving that sizzling, perfectly seared, flavorful crust and an evenly-cooked, juicy interior. Thin steaks can leave you with a sear on the outside, but an over-cooked, dry, and tough inside. Plan for ¾ pound per adult if using bone-in cuts and ½

temperature for searing, but set the other burners to a medium heat for finishing the steak. If you are using a charcoal grill, rake most of your lit charcoal (once it is covered in white ash) to one side of the grill, leaving just a single layer of charcoal on the other side. Close the lid while pre-heating the grill, but keep it open while cooking to avoid trapping heat that will over-cook the

pound per adult for boneless cuts.

interior of the steaks.

Prepare the meat Keep it simple! When using quality

Finally use an instant read meat thermometer to ensure the

cuts, very little preparation is required. In fact, most restaurants do not marinate or highly season their steaks. Simply sprinkle each side of the steaks with a pinch of salt and allow them to come to room temperature. The salt draws out water from the

steaks are cooked perfectly. All grills are different, and cooking outdoors is influenced by factors like the outdoor temperature, so a meat thermometer is really the only way to know for sure when the steaks are done.

The optimal internal temperature for the

outer layers of the meat, which will allow that beautiful dark,

juiciest, most tender steak is 130-135 degrees, or medium rare.

seared crust to form.

Serve with seasonal side items, such as grilled asparagus or baby spinach salad with strawberries.

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59

Brad Shapiro

Shapiro & Company Architects, Inc.

Ask the Architect

Photos provided by Shapiro & Company Architects

There are many people who love the location in which they live, but don’t necessarily love the way their home looks. Their home may be dated, or lacking in character. When designing a new home, we are able to make sure that it's charming and has the attributes that create a classic, timeless appeal. However, you don’t have to build a new home to achieve similar results. The home below is an example of what can be accomplished with a home “facelift.”

before

after

The existing front elevation had several problem areas that needed to be addressed including: a general lack of detail or character, a dark and dull color scheme, a dated two-story front entry that had no ties to classic architecture, first floor windows that were too wide, and landscaping that was too close to the house. Various design solutions were established that created a new home facade. Since the two story entry was one of the primary elements that contributed to the dated look, as well as being overbearing, this was completely removed. In its place, a front terrace was added to create a more welcoming environment for guests. A beautifully detailed stained front door was added, and a classically inspired round window was installed above the door to complete the entry. With the new terrace, nicely proportioned french doors were added to either side of the entry door. New operable shutters, correctly detailed dormers, and a larger scaled cornice were elements that helped provide the transition from dull to charming. The brick was painted and a soft accent color was chosen for the shutters. The new color scheme created the perfect backdrop for the new entry, and made the focus on the front door. As a final touch, the over-scaled landscaping was removed, and replaced with low manicured evergreens with seasonally plantings.

All of these elements help give the home a more classic and timeless charm. Now the home owner loves their house, as much as their neighborhood.

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decor fix

a day at Photos by Michael Thompson, Jr.

TheBeach

Invite your friends over for some fun in the sun. Simple summer fare and casual flair will make this the party of the season.

Dress a poolside table or a picnic blanket on the beach with this gorgeous tablescape and treat your guests to a day of fun in the sun.

Images and ideas provided by My Perfect Party. For more information, visit www.myperfectparty.com.

Serve crab legs and shrimp for a fancy affair, or go casual serving an array of deli meats and cheeses.

These casual whitewashed lanterns transition easily from summer seaside to fall decor. Place a scented candle in the lantern and surround it with fresh berries, pumpkins, and gourds to wow your guests all over again.

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