The Front Porch Wichita Summer 2017 by Kathy Heaton

Front Porch the

summer 2017

wichita

The Art of Cultivating Simple Pleasures and Living Well

High Tech on the High Plains

One of Kansas’ most attractive features is that, no matter where you live, you don’t have to go far to find wide-open spaces. A prairie oasis exists all around us, inviting retreat from the urban hustle and bustle. Ever since people began roaming the Great Plains, many have found this region idyllic for building a homestead. Without further ado, we present an outstanding case study of how to do it right. This particular house on the prairie takes country living to a brand-new level. Numerous features make it a monolith of craftsmanship and technology. To name a few, the living room is sheltered by a soaring cathedral ceiling, the theater room is state of the art, and natural wood and stone surfaces flow generously throughout the home’s 7,000 square feet. But our favorite aspect might be its efficiency, proving that high class and energy savings can go hand in hand. Continued on page 10. This home’s range of high-tech elements is grounded in a variety of primeval building materials, including timber, stone, and rock. Above, clockwise from left: [1] Constructed by Wichita’s TRU-Building Inc., this marvelous estate’s natural stonework and wood facades complement the surrounding acres of ancient prairie grasslands. [2] The great room alone measures an impressive 2,400 square feet; its soaring cathedral ceiling is constructed of rough timber; and the room’s focal point is the mantle, featuring a massive hand-scraped cedar log. LivingSound’s Thomas Shafer says, “The homeowner commissioned an immense painting for the great room. We worked closely with TRU-Building’s owner, Jeff Jones, to spec in a huge 70-inch television over the fireplace, which the painting easily covers by a good six inches on all sides.” When somebody wants to turn on the TV, the artwork simply rises up and out of the way. [3] LivingSound also installed weatherproof video and sound systems outdoors, including those in the sheltered and comfy cabana adjacent to the swimming pool, which itself affords multiple activities. Says Shafer, “The allweather television in this shaded retreat is five times brighter than typical sets are, and it’s completely watchable, even on bright summer days. The television’s operating temperature runs from -40 degrees to 120 degrees, so you can view it pretty much all year ’round.” Even more ingeniously, LivingSound installed many of the sound systems’ subwoofers underground in the garden, and the high-frequency satellite speakers are equally inconspicuous: they look for all the world like garden lighting!

Easy-to-make, wholesome summer recipes give time to enjoy the simple pleasures of summer. See page 14.

number 32 2 Peaceable Kingdom: coax your cat to stay home sweet home 2 Shades of Green: get rid of weeds the natural way 3 Quiet Spaces: experience the silence of the Flint Hills 6 The Collector: revisit the charm of children’s books

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A Peaceable Kingdom

It’s a Jungle Out There! You might think it’s cruel to make your cat an exclusively indoor pet, but these days, it’s the wiser choice.

imes have changed. Your cat can’t roam innocently outdoors anymore, enjoying the sunshine, the tantalizing summer breezes, the glorious scents abounding. Even in the “country,” treacherous highways and thoroughfares, paved or dusty, nowadays criss-cross your cat’s terrain and territory. Most importantly, if your cat is allowed to go outside, even once, he’s at risk for contracting highly contagious FIV— Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, the feline equivalent of AIDS—say, from a random cat bite. No vaccine exists for FIV. And that’s only one of the many diseases your cat can be exposed to. Other fatal dangers include poisoning via spilled antifreeze, maiming from fan blades when cats crawl into car engines on winter nights, aggressive dogs, and a variety of wildlife.

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Your adorable cat may be oblivious to the many dangers that exist in today’s outdoor concrete jungle, but he counts on you to make his home indoors a safe, irresistible, full-of-fun sanctuary and playground.

Neighbors may complain that your cat digs up their flower beds or gardens, or your cat catches too many songbirds. The number of birds killed by cats in America varies wildly, but it’s safe to say that even one cat-killed bird (or lizard, or chipmunk, or field mouse) is one too many. All Continued on page 4.

The most important part of a pool paradise Shades of Green Green is what lies beneath the ground. Kill ’em with Kindness Edwards Pool Construction creates unique, custom designs and stunning features by approaching every project with a solid base of durable materials and precise structures.

eautiful pools are the finished product, but to Steve Edwards, owner and designer of Edwards Pool Construction, it’s what’s underneath that really makes the difference. That’s why with every new project he takes the time to thoroughly design the elements that you won’t see, but will be the reason you have a smoothly operating pool for years to come. Initially there is the design, and Edwards has plenty of expertise in that department. Edwards Pool specializes in transforming any space, and has designed pools from the ordinary to the extraordinary, and everything in between. He is also happy to work with your design, and will do everything possible to make Edwards Pool Construction can create something sure your expectations are met and exceeded. for every budget, from regular-sized pools to one-ofa-kind, custom works of art. Creating the beautiful backyard or commercial oasis you have always wanted takes the creative vision and hard work that Edwards Pool is known for. With your vision, blueprints, and drawings in hand Edwards begins the process by coordinating everything needed to create the final elevation you want and constructing the pool’s perimeter form. Next up is installing the floor plumbing and the steel cage that holds the pool structure together. Although Edwards knows you won’t be seeing this work in the final product, Precise placement of he also knows how critical these primary pipes is critical to a processes are to giving customers a dusmooth-flowing pool. rable and exceptional pool experience. For example, he knows there are several A beautiful lake front project shows the considerable planvariables to consider for precise flow rates through the plumb- ning and precision required to create a high-quality pool. ing systems connected through your pool, and he understands the need to make sure the filtration equipment and all the piping are done precisely. The award-winning projects Edwards Pool Construction has created are a testament to the difference that comes from a family-owned, local business that takes great pride in their work, and pays attention to the details at every stage, from planning to construction to maintenance. To transform your backyard into an oasis, visit online at EdwardsPoolConstruction.com, stop by their design center at 118 E 13th St. N in Andover, or call 316.260.0757 for a free quote. They also provide complete maintenance, services, and pool updates.

It’s weeding time once again, but this time, try solving the problem with safe, natural, eco-friendly solutions!

uite simply, weeds are wild plants that you don’t want in your yard or garden beds. Chickweed, henbit, dandelion, clover, ragweed, sorrel—the list can go on, but you don’t have to resort to harsh chemical weed killers. Forget about such quick fixes as white or cider vinegar, bleach, borax, and Roundup®-style herbicides. Both vinegars, sprayed carelessly on a windy day, will likely kill desirable plants. And both vinegar solutions also kill ants and other possibly beneficial insects. If you pour undiluted bleach on weeds, you can pull them out after a day or two, and they probably won’t come back. Just be very careful not to get bleach on grass or cultivated plants in your borders and beds. Also remember that bleach is an ecologically unfriendly mix of chemicals. Borax? No. It’s toxic to plants and insects alike.

Wichita’s family-owned Hillside Nursery recommends such products as good old-fashioned mulch, which in today’s market is widely available in a variety of environmentally friendly colors, to discourage weed growth and foster water conservation.

And finally, Monsanto’s Roundup® and other grass and weed killers are, frankly, a garden’s worst nightmare. Glyphosate, an active but small ingredient in Roundup®, has been linked to leukemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, among other conditions. By federal law, only 4% of its Continued on page 7. Summer 2017

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Abundant natural luxury is the hallmark of this stunning master bath remodel by Kitchen & Bath Gallery

lthough this home was relatively new, the master bath had an awkward layout with little room and minimal storage. The homeowners wanted an update, but were not certain how their needs could be met with the existing floor plan. Fortunately, Mark Combs, co-owner of Kitchen & Bath Gallery, has the expertise to design remodels in a way to maximize space, plus provide plenty of amenities. The centerpiece of this project is a stunning wet room—a combined shower and bath area—enclosed with a stacked stone wall. When Combs showed one of the homeowners the Jeffrey Court tile for the shower flooring she knew he understood exactly the style they envisioned. By installing a wet room, Kitchen & Bath Gallery was able to create an incredible amount of extra space. The previous shower was in a small closet-like space. Now, besides the spacious wet room, they also have storage and linen closets, in custom painted Crystal cabinetry, on either side of the dual vanity that is topped with 3cm Pergaminho granite. But one of the things they like the most is the fact that now they can take advantage of the window. Kitchen & Bath Gallery installed a large piece of glass, in a way that it can be removed if necessary, to protect the blinds behind them that are set to automatically raise from the bottom up, to just the right height for privacy. Plus, the design includes open drains along the shower wall and behind the beautiful soaking tub, making the entire area extremely easy to keep clean. A hidden door was built into the right wall of the newly remodeled entry to the master suite, which is easily accessed from inside the walk-in closets, thereby permitting one of the owners to get up early and never have to go back through the bedroom to disturb their sleeping spouse. The additional space gained from Kitchen & Bath Gallery’s innovative design, gave the homeowners room for dual walk-in closets, with builtin dressers, as well as a must-have wall for shoes. Throughout the new rooms, overhead and recessed lighting give much more light, and when dimmed create a soothing, spa-like ambience. Another luxurious touch the homeowners love is the heated floor throughout, including the champagne-colored honed limestone in the main bath area, as well as in the wet room and closets. They also really appreciate the additional storage closets in the bath, the way Kitchen & Bath Gallery used a stacked stone wall that replicates what is throughout the rest of the house, and the “hidey” door that masterfully disappears into the fine custom woodwork, the wood crafted cover for the vent, and the handsome molding in the entry, all custom painted to match the bath cabinetry. According to the homeowners, Kitchen & Bath Gallery created an incredible inviting space that emanates a sense of softness. The morethan-satisfied couple exclaim, “We absolutely love it!’

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Quiet Spaces To see and know a place is a contemplative act. It means emptying out minds and letting what’s there, in all its multiplicity and endless variety, come in. —Gretel Ehrlich, “Landscape”

Photograph by Mark Wilkes Wilkes has developed a very special connection to the land with his camera. He often travels to other regions, embracing the wilds of Alaska, Montana, Tennessee, and more, but here in Kansas, he finds some of his favorite landscapes. He captured this contemplative scene in the middle of the Flint Hills, just outside Cassoday, Kansas.

Changes in latitude mean bright new colors for a lovely Wichita home When it comes to getting the right colors in all the right places, CertaPro Painters gets it spot-on every time.

here are a lot of companies that paint, but using professionals that really care about their work, and their customers, makes all the difference in the world. These homeowners recently moved to Wichita from the woodlands of the U.S. Northwest. They have quickly adopted Wichita as their new home, and love the open spaces and beautiful blue skies. The only drawback they found to their new home was its drab, brown and beige colors. They were looking for something brighter to reflect their new, sunny environment. As with most things, they looked around to get a few bids, but when they met Jamie and Jorge Ibarra, the local owners of CertaPro Painters, they instinctively knew they were the right company for the job. “We could tell from meeting with them that they had a passion for what they do and the expertise to guarantee we would be getting a high-quality painting job,” says one of the homeowners. CertaPro has built their first-rate reputation from the special care they give to every project. They know that painting your home is an important investment. They encourage their customers to point out any areas of concern, learn what they are trying to achieve, offer helpful suggestions, provide the complimentary expertise of their color consultant, and a project manager stays on top of the job through every stage of the process. From the appearance of the painting to its durability, they make certain every painting project is finished to the customer’s satisfaction. It’s what CertaPro calls the “Certainty” promise that comes Before with every job. “You could tell they take pride in their work,” says the homeowner. “All of the workers were very professional. They showed up on time, and every day they cleaned up everything so it didn’t even look like we were in the middle of having our house painted. And, most importantly, they treated our home as if it were their own—taking care with all the details. We would definitely recommend CertaPro Painters to anyone who wants their home painted the right way.” “We understand people have a choice when it comes to allowing a contractor into their home,” says Summer 2017

This home’s new main color is a lovely bright SW7667 Zircon, the gables are accented with a slightly darker shade, SW6155 Rice Grain, and the trim is finished in a clean, SW6155 Westhighland White. Together, the three tones created a bright, cheery home.

Jamie. “We feel privileged to have the opportunity to deliver the best possible job to them. Making people happy with their homes is a great feeling.” With that kind of positive attitude, it’s little wonder so many people are wanting to experience the CertaPro difference for themselves. Contact CertaPro Painters of Wichita and discover the difference for yourself. Schedule a free quote online at wichita-east.certapro.com, call 316.440.0161, stop by their office at 125 S. West St., Ste 103, or e-mail jabaker@certapro.com. 3

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A Peaceable Kingdom

It’s a Jungle Out There! from page 2

in all, it’s better to keep your cat inside. First things first: Spay or neuter your cat as soon as it’s old enough. Current veterinary practice holds that most cats can be “fixed” at two months, or two pounds, and they recover far more quickly than older cats. Also, think about getting a rescue cat from the Kansas Humane Society; the cats come already altered and vaccinated, and your cat will be forever grateful for its new forever home. Then set the stage for exciting activities indoors. Cats absolutely love to scratch, so make sure you have several dedicated places for scratching, be it an approved piece of furniture in the rec room or non-tipping cat trees and posts—anywhere. All it takes is a small amount of training and a few stern “No!”s over a weekend. Cats are smart; they’ll get the message. And they delight in having their own stuff to claim. It almost doesn’t matter what you choose as cat toys. Practically anything will do, from paper bags and boxes, to balled-up pieces of paper, laser pointers, and mechanical mice and spiders. Encourage bonding interactive play with your cat via “cat dancers” and other springy toys, as well as stuffed, catnip-laced critters. Oh, and remember to get a secure cat carrier for regular trips to the vet. With wholesome food, stimulating play, and lots of love, your cat won’t miss the outdoor jungle at all! 4

Meet Winnie, available from the Wichita Animal Action League, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing abandoned cats and adopting them to indoor-only homes. Winnie is looking for her forever home! For more information, visit rescueme.org.

Summer 2017

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inding More Ways to Better Serve You . . . Since 1968

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GrafElectric.com Summer 2017

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anie and Dave Chisholm started out in 1978 as a professional window covering installation service and custom drapery workroom, branching out in 1994 to sales of all facets of custom window treatments. They pride themselves in offering quality products at competitive pricing, quick turnaround, child/pet safety consciousness, and professional measuring and installation. Extraordinary Style, Exceptional Design

Call 686.8417 for appointments

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Alustra® PowerView® Folio

How Does Your Child Do in School? screenings for dyslexia and other reading difficulties private school for children ages 5 - 7, Rolph Literacy Academy teacher and parent education courses and information lectures

funlearn.org 316-684-READ (7323) 2220 E. 21st St. N., Opportunity Dr. Wichita, KS 67214

The Charm of Children’s Books The Collector

ew moments in life resonate as universally as a child fully immersed in the pages of a storybook. More than any other kind of literature, children’s books have forged our language skills and shaped our morality through lessons disguised as fiction. They have inspired exploration, shown us the different faces of good and evil, and taught us about consequences and redemption. For those of us who collect children’s books, they remain prized artifacts from our formative years. “I was an avid reader as a child and developed a love of books,” says Betsy Morrison, owner of Frou Frou. “They are still an important part of my life.” It’s hard to imagine a time when children’s literature did not exist. But until the 1800s, there Continued on page 7. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz are children’s tales about young and innocent protagonists learning to negotiate in a world full of amazing discoveries and perils. Even today, young readers have no trouble relating to them. The Story of Peter Rabbit has been delighting readers since the first edition, shown here, was published in 1908. Particularly popular children’s books, such as Robert Lewis Stevenson’s, A Child’s Garden of Verses, often went through several printings, and their colorful illustrations correspondingly changed with the times. Those collectors fortunate to have more than one of a given copy can trace the story’s history through the various editions.

Summer 2017

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Holistic Nursing Consultants Barbara Denison msn, aprn, ahn–bc

Your Healthcare Partner . . . with time to listen . . . to learn . . . to care. Whether you have: • Chronic or acute pain • Chronic inflammation • High cholesterol

• Insulin resistance • Stress, anxiety, fatigue, or • Grief brought on by life changes

Holistic Nursing Consultants has the resources to navigate you toward the path of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Holistic Health Consultations, with nutritional assessment and recommendations. APOE Gene Diettm Program & Therapeutic Touch to facilitate healthy lifestyle changes. Mindfulness practices such as learning the relaxation response and meditation. Education classes and workshops in Meditation, Nutrition, and Therapeutic Touch. To learn more or schedule a consultation with Barbara Denison, call 316.992.0077. Visit BarbaraDenison.com for upcoming events, workshops, and classes.

Barbara Denison relies on her more than 37-year nursing career, considerable advanced education, and intuition to guide her in becoming a therapeutic partner with her clients. Her integrative approach helps many people regain their health.

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Shades of Green Green Kill ‘em with Kindness, from page 2 ingredients have to be disclosed; Monsanto can conceal the identity of the rest as proprietary business information. This caustic weed killer is safe for children and pets only after it dries, and it’s a recognized eye irritant for all. Monsanto guarantees the product for up to twelve months only, so you’ll have to reapply it next year. And the year after that. Fortunately, non-poisonous, eco-friendly, simple solutions are readily available. You can pour boiling water directly onto your weeds. Easy. Another very effective method is to spread plain ol’ table salt directly on them; sprinkle the salt lightly with water or just wait until it rains. Or you can boil two cups of water and one cup of salt, cool slightly, then transfer it to a spray bottle and apply. Still another natural way is to Mark McHenry, owner of Hillside simply sprinkle handfuls of inexpensive baking Nursery, says that the growing popularity of xeriscaping—the use of native soda and sweep it into cracks. Remember, it’s always best to use gentler plants, shrubs, and trees that provide solutions like water, baking soda, and table salt. wildlife a natural habitat—can reduce Not only do they not pose a health risk, they’re water use by more than half. also better for the environment. More importantly, harsh chemical treatments can affect garden plants adversely, including stress, collateral burns, and loss of vigor. When your plants are weakened by drastic chemical measures, they become susceptible to invasion by pests and disease. Rest assured, if you kill your weeds with kindness, Planet Earth will thank you.

The Collector

The Charm of Children’s Books, from page 6

The genre of children’s books rapidly ranged from fiction to poetry to tall tales of impossible, imaginary, phantasmagorical adventures, such as The Flying Locomotive, by author and illustrator, William Pene du Bois.

Continued on page 8. Summer 2017

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@smallcakesict Smallcakes Wichita

The Collector

from page 7

and Sushi Bar

was no such genre. Children as young as 6 years old were already working and assuming adult responsibilities. Two things helped change all that: labor reform and affordable printing. As kids enjoyed more freedom to be kids, writers began crafting stories for them. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, by Lewis Carroll, was published in 1865. L. Frank Baum wrote The Wonderful Wizard of Oz at the turn of the century. Both tales are about young, innocent protagonists learning to negotiate a world full of amazing discoveries and perils. Although these metaphors for childhood belong to another century, today’s young readers have no trouble relating to them. The illustrations are timeless, too. More than ninety years after A. A. Milne introduced the world to Winnie the Pooh, children still embrace his lovable cast of anthropomorphic characters. The zany Continued on page 9.

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Chinese Cuisine with an Artful Flair For more than twenty years Shu Tai and Robert Liao have been serving the finest Asian foods to grateful Wichitans. It’s no surprise that their loyal following has grown dramatically with the opening of OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO. This fine-dining Chinese restaurant reaches far beyond the ordinary with authentic gourmet Chinese cuisine. At OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO, every meal is prepared to order, and their delicious sauces are all made from scratch. The menu features all the traditional Asian favorites, plantbased or meat proteins, and steamed or stir-fried dishes—and they are more than happy to accommodate special requests.

Since opening in 1996, HANA CAFE has steadily gained favor with those who appreciate ultra-fresh sushi and other artfully prepared-from-scratch Asian food. 325 N. Mead, Old Town Square 267.3766

Reserve a table in the beautiful dining room for your special occasion. And remember— Oh Yeah! China Bistro also caters!

Deliveries within 4 mile radius

Open Tue–Fri 11–2:30, Tue–Thurs 4:30–9:30, Fri 4:30–10, Sat 11:30–10, Sun 11:30–9

WEST 316.942.CAKE (2253) 7130 W. Maple, 220 Wichita KS, 67209

The Charm of Children’s Books,

Sometimes the stories behind the books are as interesting to collectors as the books. The Sunbonnet Babies’ Book came about from illustrations by Bertha L. Corbett. She believed she could not draw faces properly, so she simply covered them with bonnets. Eulalie Osgood Grover, a former elementary school teacher, was impressed with Corbett’s art and they went on to collaborate on a series of nine books. The adorable Sunbonnet Babies remain a favorite pattern for quilters and others.

HANA CAFE

EAST: 316.685.CAKE (2253) 8338 E. 21st Street, 300 Wichita KS, 67206

OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO chefs skillfully transform traditional Chinese dishes into masterpieces so artfully, so delectably, and so subtly that diners will wonder if they’re still in Kansas. There’s more: OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO’S reasonable prices, sleek décor, soft lighting, rich hardwood floors, upholstered booths, and linen tablecloths and napkins— even for lunch—create a dining experience that will have you saying, “Oh Yeah! China Bistro.” 3101 N. Rock Rd 425.7700 OhYeahChinaBistro.com

Summer 2017

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...................................

8340 E 21st St N Suite 600 {316} 651-0771

The Collector The Charm of Children’s Books, from page 8

The charm of children’s books is that they’re timeless. We first discover them when we’re young, and when we next encounter these old familiar stories as adults, we share them again with our own children. And as we celebrate these storybooks, we rejoice in that old adage, “The more things change, the more they stay the same.”

drawings of Dr. Seuss’ books remain equally iconic. So do the lumbering, long-clawed beasts that Maurice Sendak created for Where the Wild Things Are. Before she owned a fashion boutique, Morrison used to run an antique business. That’s how she got into collecting books. She says that her favorite is a signed first edition of Little Men, the sequel to Louisa May Alcott’s most famous work, Little Women. Rare copies like this can fetch a healthy sum. But resale value is not what inspires collectors like Morrison. It’s the recurring joy that children’s books bring to our lives. We first discover them when we’re young. As adults, we share these same books with our own children. And now we cherish them again for their enduring beauty and the nostalgia they evoke—especially today, when the printed word is a sight less common. “I do display some children’s books in my living room,” says Morrison, whose vast collection approximates 150 beloved titles. Summer 2017

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High Tech on the High Plains, from cover To accomplish this synthesis, TRU-Building owner Jeff Jones relied on the very latest construction technology. “Building science has advanced much over the last ten years,” Jones says. “Our tagline, ‘Construction Innovation,’ says it best as we are continually learning about products, equipment, and processes that provide customers the best value.” For instance, TRU-Building created an airtight envelope by installing windows that are more than twice as efficient as the ones found in most new homes. Meanwhile, four energy-recovery ventilators pump in a steady supply of fresh air, which many homes also lack. The ventilators conserve energy by using the indoor air temperature to cool the outdoor air coming in. “We’re passionate about high-performance construction for several reasons,” Jones says. “Overall living costs are less when you factor in utility savings alone. But in addition, greatly improved indoor air quality reduces sickness and allergies.” The quality of insulation was another boon to the homeowners, especially after recent research showed that 90 percent of homes are under-insulated. TRUBuilding added R-38 insulative wall sheathing on the main floor and R-58 in the attic. The high R-values stand for exceptional heat-flow resistance. Continued on page 11. Extraordinary outdoor vistas abound in the great room, the dining room, and the kitchen. Above, clockwise: [1] Chandeliers, sconces, and spot lighting illuminate the great room’s colossal cathedral ceiling at night, which is ample enough to easily showcase a grand piano for impromptu entertainment and a coterie of sociable guests. [2] Chandeliers and sconces, dimmed as necessary to enhance the ambience of the dining room, imbue this intimate space with muted elegance. Sumptuous leather chairs beckon guests to linger longer. [3] In the spectacular kitchen, Jones designed and installed a custom make-up air exhaust hood to handle the required 1200-CFM blower needed above the 60inch gas cooktop. A bank of glazed red accent cabinets provide a lustrous pop of color above the kitchen’s granite countertops; Belwith hardware was selected from Designers Expo as a finishing touch for these cabinets. The breakfast bar alone is spacious enough to accommodate eleven people. Natural travertine tiles throughout anchor and unify all the first-floor rooms.

Far left to right: The wine cellar holds an astounding 3,400 bottles. The adjacent winetasting room features a long view of the prairie horizon, as does the smoking lounge, but since this home boasts a state-of-the-art air-exchange system, smoke cannot overspread the house. And the humidor room—yes, room—is designed to be a walk-in storage space for cigars, keeping them optimally moist.

There’s no shortage of seating space at this estate! Upper, left to right: Casual chairs sporting red fabrics on the upper-level deck echo the cabana’s pillows, the lower deck’s cachet is a convenient pass-through bar, and the raison d’être for this appealing interior bar is an impressive liquor stash. By contrast, the upstairs rooms were designed as private retreats, removed from any goings-on below. Left, clockwise: Dual showers, a central rain-shower head, and custom recessed toilette shelves complement the jetted soaking tub on the other side of the wall. Designer Expo furnished the master bath’s Kohler and Schaub hardware fittings. The bath also boasts a television and customized sound system. The luxurious master bedroom is a sybarite’s delight, hallmarked by a double-recessed ceiling, indirect lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows for a panoramic view.

At right: A windmill from times gone by evokes memories of simpler times.

Summer 2017

The Front Porch Wichita Locally Owned by Dan & Teresa Daze Since 1995

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1927 S. West St | 722.5050 | Mon–Fri 8:30–5 | Sat 10–2 High Tech on the High Plains, from page 10 Backup power is essential for life on the plains. Fortunately, these homeowners have enough to live comfortably for months without electrical service. Their home can draw emergency power from multiple sources, including a solar array capable of offsetting almost all their electrical usage. TRU-Building isn’t the only local business leveraging innovation to streamline homelife. “If there’s one overriding theme of this project, it’s that we’re building things that cater to your lifestyle,” says Thomas Shafer of LivingSound. LivingSound was originally commissioned to install Continued on page 12.

Please don’t judge a barn by its classic red siding! Says Jones, “The owners had already acquired the acreage for their home, but first they asked us to build what turned out to be a very nice horse barn.” Top and bottom: Chandeliers hang adjacent to the stables. The energy-efficient bunkhouse is nicely furnished with modern appliances, and the lodge-style furniture was built from rough-hewn wood.

Summer 2017

Beautiful design and energy efficiency go hand-in-hand at TRU-Building. For Jeff Jones, owner of TRU-Building, the goal of all projects—commercial, residential, a new build, or a remodel—is to build a better building.

ince 1977, that’s exactly what he has been doing. First for other companies, working primarily on commercial properties. But Jones has always had an eye for an innovative approach to construction and in 2010 he decided to take his years of experience and start his own company, TRU-Building. Jones has always been intrigued with construction methods. He enjoys problem solving and he really likes finding new and better ways to accomplish his customers’ goals. His approach is pretty simple: he believes integrity, knowledge, and expertise are the guide to building attractive, functional spaces that deliver industryleading energy efficient buildings with healthier indoor air quality, and the advanced technology features today’s buyers seek. “For example, in Europe they are much more conscious about efficiency,” Jones says. Their approach is what initially led him to To learn more about this beautiful net-zero energy home by looking more seriously at passive homes, and what he found was a TRU-Building, see the article, “High Tech on the High Plains,” starting on the cover of this issue. treasure trove of data showing just how smart these buildings are. HERS (Home Energy Rating Systems) scores are now used nationally to determine the value of buildings: a lower number means a more affordable, comfortable, and energy efficient home. And balanced ventilation systems, such as TRU-Building uses, mean cleaner, healthier indoor air. When TRU-Building began incorporating more sustainable products and methods into their building projects, their list of more than satisfied customers began to grow at an amazing rate, and it took his company to an entirely new level. As a Zero Energy Ready Home Partner with the Department of Energy, Jones has the know-how and expertise to build a high-performance home that is so energy efficient that all or most annual energy consumption can be offset with renewable energy sources. “One of the biggest misconceptions people have about sustainable building is that it costs too much,” says Jones. “But the difference it can make in your annual utility bills alone is extremely significant, and the cleaner air is definitely a healthier environment.” Sustainable or passive building doesn’t affect the finished look, either. Any style home can be built with sustainable methods. While Jones understands how some people don’t yet understand the overall savings that can be gained by using these products and techniques, he continues to exhort the very real benefits of ultra-efficiency as a foundational element for the optimal performance of any building. “After all,” Jones says, “the sooner our customers incorporate some of these energy After this commercial remodel, that saving techniques, the sooner they’ll start saving big on energy bills, and for many of included changing all the lighting them, the higher quality of indoor air will mean fewer health problems, as well.” to LED, the owner’s utility bill deIn other words, TRU-Building is ready to build the home of the future—today. creased significantly, and their new To learn more about the benefits of passive building or remodeling, residential or look has led to an increase in sales commercial, contact TRU-Building at 544 S Ridge Circle Ste. 100, 316.247.2236, or visit of their high-quality dresses. online at TRU-Building.com. 11

The Front Porch Wichita

Kitchen Tune-Up brings new conveniences and vintage styling to a Kansas home on the range These homeowners truly embrace country living, but they also longed for the modern conveniences of a new kitchen remodel.

ortunately, they found just the right folks to bring in the new, while maintaining respect for the old. Adam and Rachel Phillips, owners of the local franchise of Kitchen TuneUp, specialize in everything from cabinet refacing to complete kitchen remodels, or even new builds. They also take pride in making sure every project reflects the homeowner’s personality. Upon meeting with the Phillips, these homeowners felt they had definitely found someone who could give them what they wanted and stay within their budget. “Rachel was really good about giving us options throughout the process. Right away I knew I could trust her,” says the homeowner. “Plus, she made it fun. I knew I wanted a few modern conveniences, so we opted for all new appliances. I was really happy to finally get a dishwasher, but it took a little convincing to get me to consider a pull-out trash container, but now that’s my happiest little feature of the entire remodel!” The homeowner is also very pleased with the combination of two granites. The perimeter has a darker granite with a half moon edge. For the island, however, a piece of luxury granite was custom cut to give it a wavy pattern. And although it is chunky and rough-hewn, it’s not sharp, and it adds another element to this engaging remodel. Knotty Alder stained café with a chocolate glaze was chosen for the cabinets, and truffle-stained bead board was used for the base of the island. The vintage signs and farm implements used for décor show how passionate this couple are about the history of found items. The old butcher block is a solid 500 pounds, and to cover an electrical box above the range they installed an old barn door with a stained glass window on it mounted on rails. But the new kitchen that Kitchen Tune-Up created for them is their most favorite find to date. “Kitchen Tune-Up was able to make everything new, and create an original look that truly highlights our most cherished pieces,” says the homeowner. “I really love it!” Call 316.558.8888 or e-mail jphillips@kitchentuneup.com to schedule a free consultation at their design studio, located at 4057 N. Woodlawn, Ste 1. You can also visit them online at kitchentuneup.com, or follow them on Facebook at Kitchen Tune-Up, Wichita, Kansas.

High Tech on the High Plains, from page 11 a theater room, but when the owners realized the full extent of the company’s capabilities, they chose to integrate video, sound, and home automation throughout the whole house. And outdoors, too. The poolside cabana has an allweather TV. Subwoofers are buried in the garden, and high-frequency satellite speakers are camouflaged as lighting. “When it’s party time around the pool and you’ve got that cranked up, it makes for a neat environment,” Shafer says. “You get seamless audio coming from all over, including rich, deep bass.” From sound systems to window coverings, home automation allows the owners to customize and manage their environment through voice commands or simply by pressing a button. The motorized blinds automatically close during the brightest part of the day, blocking sunlight and reducing air-conditioner workload. Lights turn off at a scheduled time just in case someone forgets to flick the switch before leaving a room. The lights can even be programmed to shine at less than full capacity, such as 85 percent. “They’re saving that 15 percent every time they turn on the lights,” Shafer says. “And when you multiply that over multiple months over multiple years, boom—there are your big energy savings.” Although this level of technology requires cables, processors, and other hardware to perform its magic, one of LivingSound’s greatest acts is making it all vanish. Out of sight. Out of mind. Cutting-edge living doesn’t have to be complex. You can enjoy a high-tech home on the range while conserving resources and savoring simple pleasures more fully. Like hosting a summer cookout set to your custom playlist. Or kicking back and watching the curtains rise on one of those famous prairie sunsets. —By Matt Nelson

At night, a billion brilliant stars serenely traverse the prairie landscape. Above, clockwise from left: A sparkling fountain effusively welcomes guests to this grand estate. The pool and its abundant amenities take on a whole new persona at night. An intimate seating niche with low accent lighting fosters star-gazing. A stair-lit entry to the cabana and pool is but one of this home’s cutting-edge safety features. Other stars come out at night as well! At left, counter-clockwise: Arguably the star of this home is the lower-level theater room, which comfortably seats twelve. LivingSound installed the home theater, which delivers a consummate cinematic experience through state-of-the-art audio and video. Motorized curtains open to dramatically introduce the feature presentation. “I think it’s one of the best home theaters in the entire region,” Shafer says. “The whole experience is pretty phenomenal.” And there are many other features as well. When somebody rings the doorbell, for example, the television and music mute, so the homeowner can hear it over the speaker system. Then, about five seconds later, everything resumes. So even if you’re downstairs, that option alone lets you know that the doorbell’s ringing. Note that the home theater’s stylish custom-upholstered chairs echo the cheerful red pillows found outdoors in the cabana, in the lower-deck’s pool chairs, and even in the red-sided barn. And the closeby entertainment room and bar give guests a world of choices after the movie’s over. All in all, being invited to this home is an evening well spent!

Summer 2017

The Front Porch Wichita

Transformation by Design

hile maintaining the

homeowner’s personal style, the experienced team of interior designers at Nelson Designs imbued this beautiful new home with an easeful atmosphere by bringing in a palette of varying neutrals in multiple, innovative ways. New leaf-patterned drapes gently frame the expansive views, and thoughtfully chosen furnishings, carefully arranged, lend a softness by adding layers of varying tones of cream, gray, and beige.

Art Expresses Who You Are Home to one of Wichita’s largest original art collections. Visit our gallery and meet many of

The choice of accessories reflects the new multi-tonal décor. In one example, a black bowl and a contemporary metal sculpture accent the black and gray furnishings. In another example, the designers shared a way the homeowner could make a statement with contrasts by adding a bright original painting—created by Sharon Nelson, also an accomplished artist—and setting it off nicely with a white contemporary vase filled with brightly hued flowers.

our artists in their on-site studios. 316.262.2435 | 412 E. Douglas Mon.–Fri. 11–3, Sat. 10–3 Join us the last Friday of every month 6–9 pm

TESSERAFINEARTGALLERY.COM Looking Up, oil by Arlo Casper

Nelson Designs offers impeccable assistance in the full design of your home or office. Everything from selecting your color story, fine furniture, accessories, and window treatments, including Hunter Douglas, to the installation of artwork and mirrors. As Sharon says, “our desire is to make you happy with your choices and enjoy the process of transforming your house into your home!”

Above: A colorful study in contrasts. Below: Lunar phases accent the room’s blacks and shades of gray.

Visit the showroom, bring pictures, or call for your complimentary consultation today.

BEFORE This beautiful house was an amazing canvas that Nelson Designs carefully transformed into a home.

8340 E 21st St • The Shops at Tallgrass • NelsonDesignsLLC.net

613.3450

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The Front Porch Wichita

As soon as summer arrives, we look for any opportunity to spend more time outdoors. Summer is the perfect season for simple, easy-to-prepare foods that require little time in the kitchen and keep well at out-of-doors get-togethers. Hang some lights in the trees and set out plenty of candles and a few bowls of water filled with cut flower blossoms, and a festive garden party is underway. In order to make it an especially enjoyable alfresco experience, we enthusiastically suggest a menu that is satisfying yet simple. These recipes are guaranteed to fulfill any and all desires for taste-filled, but not overly filling, summer specialties. Sandwiches made with long French baguettes make for a casual presentation that also provides the option of creating full-meal sandwiches or smaller snack-sized portions.

Our Eggplant-Provolone Sandwiches can be made either by grilling the eggplant and onion at an ambienceenhancing outdoor island cooking station, or by simply placing them under the kitchen-range broiler. Either way, they come together quickly, and the olives, tomatoes, and fresh basil combine to create a truly satisfying pastiche of flavors and textures. No summer meal seems to be complete without at least a couple of salads, but it is best to avoid heavy dressings made with egg or mayonnaise, which do not keep well in the outdoor heat. Our Penne Pasta Salad is made with surprisingly few ingredients, which may be the very key to its delicious taste. The pasta is simply tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, roasted garlic, and fresh Italian parsley. Delicious, nothing-compares, homemade ice cream is the very essence of summer. Many of us have fond memories of family reunions at which everyone pitched in to take their turn at the White Mountain hand-crank ice cream maker, which was filled with plenty of ice and salt. No doubt the effort expended made it taste extra good, and if you have plenty of friends and family that are up to the task of making ice cream the old-fashioned way, that can be a lot of fun for everybody. However, there are several ice cream makers available today that make short work of that arduous job. Usually they feature a gel-containing bowl that is frozen by placing it in the kitchen freezer for a few hours. Then the magic of electricity makes for effortless cranking all on its own, resulting in fresh, delectable ice cream for everyone in approximately twenty-five to thirty easy minutes. To keep things simple, prepare an easy vanilla ice cream with a non-dairy milk and creamer, sugar, and vanilla. Plain vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with our luxuriously textured sweet cherry sauce. This sauce can be prepared quickly and will keep nicely overnight if necessary. For an extra treat, offer chunks of premium chocolate bars to mix in, or pecans to put on top. One thing is certain: Whether the ice cream is made the old-fashioned way or in a convenient ice cream maker, the final products are equally delicious, and sure to be the basis for some new memories. Always keep in mind that in summertime, the living is supposed to be easy. Free yourself from any guilt—and from complicated, time-consuming recipes—and allow yourself to savor the endless simple pleasures of summer, enhanced by great food. You will be simply glad you did! n

Eggplant Provolone Sandwich 2 medium eggplant, cut lengthwise into 1/4” or 1/2” thick slices 1 medium red onion, 1/4” or 1/2”thick slices 1/4 cup olive oil 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar 2 large tomatoes, sliced 1/2 bunch of fresh basil leaves 2 tablespoons pitted Kalamata olives 4 slices provolone cheese, non-dairy Daiya is good 1 pound French baguette 1-2 whole cloves fresh garlic

Brush 1/2” slices eggplant and onion with olive oil and grill for 3-5 minutes, turning once, until browned. To cook inside, simply brush 1/4” slices with olive oil and place on a baking sheet under a broiler until browned. Sprinkle the tomatoes with the vinegar and set aside. Slice the bread in half lengthwise, and rub with garlic cloves cut in half. Grill the bread for a few moments or place under the broiler until it just begins to brown. Arrange the eggplant sliced tomatoes on the bottom half of the bread. Top with the chopped Kalamata olives, and whole basil leaves. On the top half of bread place the grilled onions and top with the provolone cheese. Put the two halves together and slice into 4 to 5 pieces.

Use organic ingredients whenever possible.

Penne Pasta Salad 2/3 pound box of penne pasta 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/3 cup fresh Italian parsley, minced 2 whole garlic heads, roasted 1/3 cup freshly grated dairy-free Parmesan cheese, we’re partial to GoVeggie® salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

“It’s amazing how quickly you recover from misery when someone offers you ice cream.” — Neil Simon, Brighton Beach Memoirs

Roast 2 whole garlic heads tosssed in a tablespoon of olive oil at 400 degrees for thirty to forty-five minutes. Test for doneness with a fork; the cloves should be soft, but firm. Remove and push the roasted garlic out of their skins. Cook the pasta according to package directions, being certain to not overcook. Boiling for about 2 minutes less than the total recommended time. Remove from the heat when al dente, drain, and lightly rinse with cool water. Mash 2 cloves of the roasted garlic into a small bowl. Add the lemon juice and whisk in the olive oil. Add salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Pour over the pasta and mix well. Add the chopped parsley, roasted garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well and chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Will keep for up to two days.

Vanilla Ice Cream with Sweet Cherry Sauce For the Ice Cream: In 1845, Nancy Johnson invented a hand-operated ice cream freezer, which helped Americans enjoy ice cream in their own homes.

1 cup whole organic non-dairy milk, well chilled. 3/4 cup fine sugar 2 cups organic non-dairy creamer, well chilled 1-2 teaspoons Madagascar vanilla

Pour the milk into a medium bowl, stir in the sugar, gently whisking until it is dissolved. Stir in the heavy cream and the vanilla. Pour into an ice cream maker and proceed with the manufacturer’s instructions. Most take about 25-30 minutes until the ice cream becomes thickened. Then, spoon into a plastic container and put in the freezer to harden. Continued on page 15.

Summer 2017

The Front Porch Wichita

“We still have to put some cherry syrup on it, and then we can eat it.” — Bill Murray, finishing an ice sculpture in Groundhog Day

Sweet Cherry Sauce: 1 pint fresh organic cherries, pitted 1 cup water 3/4 cup fine sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine the cherries and water in a heavy-bottomed sauce pan. Quickly bring to a boil and remove from the heat. Remove the cherries with a slotted spoon and put into a bowl. Add the sugar to the cherry liquid in the pan and boil until the mixture just begins to thicken, being careful not to overcook to the hard candy stage. Add the vanilla, boil for another minute. Remove from the heat and pour over the cherries.

Front Porch the

summer 2017

wichita

The Art of Cultivating Simple Pleasures and Living Well Welcome to The Front Porch Wichita! We invite you to join us as we share ideas for homes and gardens, swap some recipes, meet some interesting people, and chat a little about this and that. And if you happen to have a front porch that you’d like us to see, please write or call us. We’ll be more than happy to stop by, and maybe even sit a spell. To view on-line, please visit: TheFrontPorchWichita.com Support your local businesses whenever possible. Please let participants know you saw them in The Front Porch Wichita!

Editor: Kathy D. Heaton Contributing Writers: David Caylor, Matt Nelson, Kat Schneider Copy Editor: Jo Bowman Contributing Graphic Designer: Hai Tran IT Department: Aarcher Consultanting Publisher: Patrick D. Wherritt

Daniels Publishing, Inc. | 2250 N. Rock Road, Ste. 118-J Wichita, KS 67226 | 316.687.1968

Contents copyright ©2017 by Daniels Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted or reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. The Front Porch WichitaTM is a registered trademark of Daniels Publishing, Inc. The Front Porch Wichita is designed to showcase area businesses and professionals. Space is paid for by the advertisers and is an opportunity for them to let you know more about them and their businesses. The Front Porch Wichita makes no claims regarding, and does not endorse, the services, and/or products featured. Subscriptions: If you would like to receive each quarterly issue of The Front Porch Wichita please send a check or money order for $3.00 to Daniels Publishing, Inc.

Summer 2017

A New Addition Creates Rooms and a View

hat began with a new screened porch, grew into a complete addition. Originally the homeowners wanted an old, open deck removed and replaced with something they could use more of the year. Barry Reece, owner of Choice Exteriors, went to work designing a screened porch, with a step-out, open-air platform for grilling. As the project began to take form they talked with Reece about building an addition on the opposite side of the rear of the house. The result was a splendid new expansive master suite they had long wanted, with the added benefit of space for a home office and an exercise room. The new addition looks every bit like the rest of the home, as was Reece’s intention, and created the much needed space for the entire family. An automated heat pump system was installed for the addition. Space heaters beneath the addition and inside the porch keep those areas comfortable when the evenings are cool, and the shaded patio and screened porch create a respite for sunny days. “Now we eat nearly every meal outside, and with the new patio below there is plenty of room for our children to play,” says the owner. Their favorite part? Well, it’s hard to say. Inside, they thoroughly enjoy the expanded space from the addition. And outside? The comfort and views of the new screened porch are certainly hard to beat. Hands down, inside and out, they’d highly recommend Barry Reece and his company, Choice Exteriors, for anyone looking for high-quality work at a fair, competitive rate. “Barry was great to work with during the entire project,” says the homeowner. “He gave us options along the way, and the final product, well, it speaks for itself. We couldn’t be happier,” he adds with a smile.

316.409.1820 ChoiceExteriorsllc.com

Your imagination is the only limit!

Porches & Decks • Room Additions • Cabinets • Roofing & Siding • Painting Entertainment Centers • Room Additions • Home Remodeling Services • Custom Jobs New Window Replacements • Wet Bars • Leaf Armourtm Gutter Covers

The Front Porch Wichita

Introducing from

LivingSound Great Room

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A well-respected dental professional in Wichita had just purchased a new home in The Residences at Waterfront and came to us asking for help. In his previous home, he had dabbled with some popular DIY home automation products with varying levels of success, and said, “this time I want to do it right.” LivingSound provided and installed a Savant Pro home automation system that controls a new integrated AV system in the great room, a new discrete 7.2 surround sound system in the family room, and the home’s heating/cooling/humidification system— all from a user-friendly, visually-based iPad App called Savant Pro 8. Our customer enjoys it’s ease of use and the ability to control all of this when away from home. A good home automation system from Savant Pro just makes life simpler!

Create your Savant Home Family Room

Savant has been in the world’s most luxurious homes since 2005. LivingSound can help you experience it for yourself.

Wichita’s Apple Sales & Premium Service Provider 10096 E. 13th St N., #138 | 316.425.6340 LivingSoundHome.com

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Summer 2017