Authement Family

By Greta Honsberger

he Authements moved into their new home in The Sanctuary two years ago, but the process of building their dream home included spending a year just to draw up the plans making the entire process a two and a half year adventure. Creating their own home was an obvious labor of love and perfection. The idea that would become a reality was to build a multi-generational home in a quiet area. The challenge was finding a lot large enough for such a home. Megan explains that they were always looking for the right size lot for their family home, including enough space for the five of them, along with Joseph’s parents, Rickey and Pam. The Sanctuary accommodated their needs perfectly.

TOur Cover Family, Joseph, and Megan Authement, are the parents of Hyland, a sophomore at St. Paul’s, William, a 7th grader at Mary, Queen of Peace, and Isabelle, a fourth grader also at Mary, Queen of Peace. This busy family has found their place in The Sanctuary. They love all the space they have around them especially the wooded areas that offer such peace. The Authements enjoy being outside, whether swimming in their pool or cooking in their outdoor space. Another notable element to their home, which the family loves the most, is their living room. This favorite room boasts 24-foot cathedral ceilings made of reclaimed wood from the original Levi Strauss production facilities. Likewise, the wood floors also

came from the old Levi Strauss building. Megan says that these floors are Joseph’s favorite feature in the home. Another incredible detail in this space is a painting by local artist Inga Falterman. The inception of this custom painting began in the early stages in the building process when they were framing the home. Because of the 24 - foot ceilings and the desire for something bright and representative of Louisiana, the Authements commissioned Falterman. Knowing the space was significant in size, early on, she began painting the Live Oak that hangs prominently over their fireplace. This treasured painting is another family favorite. The well appointed living room is loved because of the rich history in the flooring and beams, the custom made Inga Falterman painting, and the comfortable feel of the open floor plan. If the Authements aren’t outside enjoying the tranquility of their outdoor space, they are most likely in this comfy and timeless room. When it comes to decor, it is evident that this family has a genuine appreciation for the past as well. Megan was sure to mention her favorite piece, which is an antique barometer that hangs in their dining room. This gorgeous piece of gilt carved artistry is 18th century French, in the Louis XVI style. Megan, and decorator Corrin Fisher, have combined antiques with new furnishings from places like Greige Furnishings creating the perfect ambience of old and new. It is obvious that Joseph, Megan and their three children value time spent outdoors and time spent together. The family enjoys going to Shell Beach, where they keep a boat and love to go out fishing. Seaside and Orange Beach are also spots the family likes to visit for a break to recharge from their busy life. The Authements enjoy cooking at home, but on the occasion when they go out to dinner, they frequent local places like Coffee Rani, Greyhound, and Fazzios. If Joseph and Megan are looking forward to a date night, they enjoy Del Porto or Pardos. k

These nights out are a refreshing change from their normal routine. Favorites for shopping locally are Paisley, Villa, Mackenzie and Me, and the ever timeless Perlis for the grownups. Hyland and William appreciate Second Serve Tennis for their local tennis needs, and Blossom Girl is best-loved for Izzy’s shopping pleasure. Finally, Megan and Joseph Authement are leading by example when it comes to teaching their three children about the importance of giving back to their community. An important cause they are dedicated to is Hog for a Cause. Since 2009, Hogs has raised millions of dollars for pediatric brain cancer research and much needed help for their families. The founder, Becker Hall, is a childhood friend of Joseph’s, which is how the Authements became involved in their ten year, unwavering support. Their involvement became more significant the past two years as they hosted Party for the Cause at their home. Their hosting efforts have been a huge success, raising over $130,000! Their efforts in teaching their children to give back is absolutely becoming a reality. The youngest Authement, Isabelle raised $1,500, herself, by making and selling bracelets at the event. What an incredible example to teach your children. For the Authement Family, The Sanctuary checks all their boxes in terms of space, tranquility, and the beauty of a multi-generation home. This family of five, plus grandparents, along with their menagerie: BB, Dixie, Tamale, the appropriately named chihuahua, Skeeter, and Nutmeg the Guinea pig, are truly home.v Photo Credits to Katie Ulmer Photography