Front Porch Summer 2015

Page 1

Front Porch the

summer 2015

wichita

The Art of Cultivating Simple Pleasures and Living Well

Relaxing Lakeside Retreat Cool reflections, gentle breezes, and fanciful daydreams. These are just a few of the images that come to mind when we contemplate spending time at the lake. The allure of water is natural. Our attraction to it makes sense. Water composes a large part of our bodies as well as our planet, and it is important to our survival. Some people even ascribe mystical healing properties to it. But the ability of water to calm and rejuvenate may simply come from the way it looks, the way it sounds, and the way it feels. We can certainly attest to the pleasing effect it has on the mind and body. It’s no wonder that people gravitate toward bodies of water, such as beautiful lakes, and dream about making their homes there. People may have different reasons for wanting to live by the lake. Lakeside homes can be private places to get Continued on page 10.

New ingredients create delicious flavors in traditional favorites, making them certain to be on your mustmake summer menu. See page 14 for recipes.

This stunning home, situated on a pristine lot on Beaver Lake in Arkansas, reflects the beauty and magic of lakeside living. Completely remodeled and refined by the talented efforts of Design Studio Ltd. and Kitchen & Bath Gallery, the result is a warm and welcoming home imbued with the serene and relaxing allure of the lake. Clockwise from upper left: 1] The biggest transformation happened by removing a wall that cut the main living area in half. The newly created open space significantly enhanced the visual impact of the lake. The great room, furnished with a fluid blend of comfortable and contemporary dÊcor, offers ample seating that welcomes everyone to sit down, relax, and enjoy the view. Where the wall once existed now stands a peninsula that not only promotes openness but also features abundant storage, a bar for meals, and a place to set out a buffet when entertaining friends and family. The ceiling beams and the retained existing woodwork were originally golden oak. They were distressed and given a dark finish to blend in with the new custom-stained knotty alder cabinetry and woodwork throughout the house. 2] Lake-inspired prints at the far end of the main dining area convey the ambience of a lakeside resort. Wicker chairs with custom cushions upholstered in lake-friendly, indoor-outdoor fabric flank an expansive dining table topped with food-safe galvanized tin. 3] The original fireplace consists of a splendid design that utilizes the ubiquitous rock native to Arkansas. The beautiful floors throughout the home are 4-inch select white oak with a custom stain. Original antiques and Asian-inspired pieces perfectly complement the home’s sophisticated, rustic ambience. See additional photos and information on pages 2 and 3.

number 24 2 Peaceable Kingdom: loyal volunteers take action to ensure pet welfare 2 Shades of Green: eco-friendly roofscapes blend strength and style 6 On The Porch: an enchanting cottage garden is a delight for the senses 12 Noteworthy: an ambitious garden project becomes a reality for local veterans


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