Front Porch the
autumn 2018
wichita
The Art of Cultivating Simple Pleasures and Living Well
Dining Styles to Suit Every Taste
D
Dining together with family and friends is something to be enjoyed and savored. It’s a time when everything else can be put on hold and your attention can shift to sharing food, engaging in conversation, and creating memories. Unfortunately, the pleasure of getting together for meals has mostly been relegated to holidays and special occasions. Today’s large, modern kitchens now have islands to accommodate members of the family as they hurry about, grab a bite, and return to their busy schedules. Continued on page 10.
Roasted green chile adds warmth to autumn meals. See page 14 for recipes.
The concept of a dining room arose in the Middle Ages. What was first a small room with planks or boards set upon trestles has evolved into highly stylized rooms, furniture, and accessories. Clockwise from upper left: [1] A stunning solid-bronze base featuring three trumpeting elephants and topped with an impressive piece of beveled glass is the centerpiece of this delightfully simple dining space. This owner loves all things elephant, and these elegant pachyderms sound out a resounding welcome to all. Surrounded by a stunning set of gold velvet chairs that are as comfortable as they look makes lingering after a delicious meal all the more enjoyable. The paintings “Sunrise” and “Sunset” are by local artist Sharon Nelson, co-owner of Nelson Designs. Furnishings and interior design by Nelson Designs, 8340 E 21st St N, Ste 200, 613.3450. [2] This winsome and cozy dining room setting, “Together in Winter,” was Dea Ann Drapery's entry in the 2017 MARK Arts’ Holiday Tables event. Dea Ann Kuhn fashioned a custom-made duvet cover to compose this intimate table for two; the fetching tableau also featured a custom-made monogrammed table runner and napkins, copper cookie cutters, and chair pillows. She says, “I fabricate custom drapery, bedding, and accessories for the home. When I’m not working with clients, you’ll find me decorating my home!” Contact Dea Ann's Drapery for your fabricated projects at 259.0276. [3] This restful dining room is part of an open floor plan that includes a large hearth room, kitchen, and breakfast area. The dining chairs sport lower backs, preserving this space’s free-flowing ambience. The area rug is a custom-bound outdoor sisal, which proves to be very practical in a dining area. The artwork, the distinctive lamps, and the view from the ample window provide the distinctive style that hallmarks this layered room. Interior design and furnishings by Lizanne Guthrie, Design Studio, Ltd., 682.6612.
number 37 2 Peaceable Kingdom: beneficial creatures of the night and day 2 Shades of Green: local builder puts eco-friendly designs into new homes 3 Art Gallery: an exhibition of fine art from extraordinary local artists 4 The Collector: treasured memories shine during the holidays 8 A La Carte: Italian cherries are the perfect topping for an almond delight 12 Quiet Spaces: walking outside brings us closer to our inner quiet nature 15 The Pantry: fresh ginger lends spice to a soothing tea for the season