Front Porch the
winter 2015–2016
wichita
The Art of Cultivating Simple Pleasures and Living Well
Rooms to Grow In B
Bedrooms, more than any other room in the house, hold special meaning for children and adolescents. It is their special territory—a place of refuge, entertainment, and self-discovery. It is also the one room in the house that sees the most changes. A child’s room begins as a blank canvas. Many different landscapes will be painted in the years to come, and it is usually the parents who apply the first brushstroke. The spectrum of available colors extends far beyond bluefor-boys and pink-for-girls, and parents shouldn’t be afraid to break away from tired old traditions. The important thing is to create a stimulating environment. As it turns out, children are naturally inclined toward interior design. Their penchant for claiming territory leads them to crayon the closet walls, drag toys into the doghouse, and assemble fortresses out of cushions and blankets. Continued on page 10.
Clockwise from upper left: 1] Lizanne Guthrie’s children are fortunate to have a designer for a mom. Guthrie, of Design Studio Ltd., helped transform their bedrooms into spaces that combine style and comfort. “We have used sleep sofas both in the loft area and in our daughter’s sitting room so that those spaces can be used to comfortably sleep additional guests when needed,” Guthrie says. Elegance and warmth come together through the arrangement of antique accessories, wicker furnishings, and paisley fabrics. The watercolor paintings to the right of the window add a personal touch to the daughter’s room. One is of her grandmother’s house, and the other is of the original Design Studio, Ltd. building on East Central Avenue. 2] For children, this French-style playhouse must be like having their own home, complete with a second-story sleeping area, sundeck, and small garden. 3] This child’s room features Roman shades and cornice board in a Tiffany blue linen with satin ribbon trim. Thanks to A&M Superior Upholstery, this beautiful color can extend to the chair and accent the painting hanging next to the bed. A&M also upholstered the window seat cushions with a vintage print Pucci fabric. A lusciously simple winter fruit compote not only warms body and soul, but also stirs up some family-favorite memories. For recipes, see page 14.
number 26 2 Peaceable Kingdom: classic books reveal the nature of animals 2 Shades of Green: houseplants clean winter’s indoor air—naturally 4 Beautiful Finds: enchanting new finds for living well 6 Noteworthy: picture book illustrations engage children in art
The Front Porch Wichita
A Peaceable Kingdom
Nature’s Stories Natural lessons abound in classic books.
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Design Studio, Ltd.
A new generation in interior design services ◊
Offering a complete range of interior design services including new home construction consultations, space planning, fabric, furniture and rug selections, and whole-home or individual room makeovers. I look forward to helping you make your home warm, beautiful, comfortable, and inviting.
Lizanne Guthrie | Residential and Business Interiors Call or e-mail for an appointment 682.6612 | lizanne@designstudioltd.com
hroughout history, many prominent teachers and authors have used fiction to describe our relationship with nature—the joy it brings, how we affect it, and the responsibilities we have toward it. Many were self-taught naturalists while others held academic titles. But they all shared a common view that, if humanity is to evolve, we need to take a closer look at how we interact with the environment and determine areas for improvement, especially when it comes to our relationship with wildlife. When winter weather settles in, we retreat indoors to keep warm and cozy. It’s a good opportunity to spend some time reading and reflecting. To that end, we present two classics: The Song of the Cardinal, by Gene Stratton-Porter, and The Year of the Whale, by Victor B. Scheffer. Both stories are told from the point of view of an animal. The strength of these books is that the authors present the narratives in such a way that opens the door for important conversations about the preservation of creatures both great and small. The Song of the Cardinal was written in 1903 and became an overnight best Although written in 1903, The seller. To this day, the Song of the Cardinal continnovel continues to delight ues to bring joy to new readers readers. A woman ahead with its engaging prose. of her time, Stratton-Porter wrote twenty books and countless magazine articles read by nearly fifty million people. The novel is about a special cardinal that is “bigger, redder, and sings more beautifully than any other bird.” As he sings, an Continued on page 4
Green Shades of Green
Plant Power
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“Look around Leaves are brown And the sky Is a hazy shade of winter.” —Simon & Garfunkel
utumn’s glorious displays of reds, yellows, and oranges have naturally yielded to the dispiriting winter palette of muted monochromes: browns, greys, and oatmeals. The connection between winter’s shortened daylight hours and seasonal affective disorder has been recognized for some time now, but there’s a lesserknown winter-month correlation between houseplants and better overall health that needs publicizing. It’s a fact: During the winter, the air in your home is regularly more polluted than the air outside. Its wellcaulked windows and insulated walls successfully resist any exchange of air, and it thus becomes a musty, germladen incubator. Luckily, an easy remedy is available; many common houseplants can clean and improve the quality of indoor air. A couple of decades ago, NASA investigated whether or not houseplants could purify the air in space facilities. They discovered that many could indeed filter out 87 percent of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as well as other contaminants. For example, the snake plant is one of Many houseplants can naturally the best for filtering cleanse the stale, toxic air in your out formaldehyde, home. And they add a cheerful pop of which is common in green to remind you that spring is but a season away!
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Continued on page 6. Winter 2015–2016
The Front Porch Wichita
Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design offers the greatest selection of the newest and most exquisite diamonds and wedding rings. While diamonds are clearly one of the world’s most perfect gems, they are not created equal.
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hoosing diamonds takes a lot of knowledge and expertise. You may be familiar with the four “Cs”—color, cut, clarity and carat, but when it gets right down to it, most of us aren’t very sure what it all means, and few know how to tell which diamond is the best. That’s why the expertise and sterling reputation of Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design is so highly valued. When it comes to knowledge about gems, and an authentic interest in matching customers to the jewelry that’s right for them, Burnell’s is in a class by itself. They know a lot goes into the purchase of any fine jewelry, and they recognize the significance of choosing a wedding ring. But that doesn’t mean it has to be overwhelming. Their newly remodeled space offers a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, where each and every customer receives individualized care and attention. And their knowledge makes all the difference in the world when it comes to choosing fine jewelry, and especially when it comes to buying diamonds. While on the one hand it can be said that it all comes down to size and sparkle, at Burnell’s they understand there’s a lot more to diamonds that can make a real difference. For example, most diamonds have 58 facets, which is why they sparkle so beautifully. But the Star 129 Diamond, available exclusively at Burnell’s, has 129 facets. This creates a look that outshines the indusThe Star 129 Diamond Difference try’s standard “Ideal Cut.” Even people that profess that they do not like diamonds find they love this cut. A Star 129 diamond doesn’t need a jeweler’s light or a gem scope to see the difference. It is the brightest gemstone diamond available. “You have to see one to believe it,” says coowner Robin Lies. “They are amazingly brilAbove: A brilliant transformation from a liant. Under bright lights they are just truly standard 58 facet cut, left, to the amazing blinding, and even in darker places they are 129 facets, right. still dazzling.” But you don’t have to buy a new diamond Below: This round diamond, left, was a regular 58 facet, but was also damaged. to get that sparkle. If you already have a diaAfter getting the Star 129 cut, it sparkles mond that you’ve loved for years, bring it to like a completely different diamond. Burnell’s and they can give it a Star 129 cut. “It’s a great way to bring new brilliance to your older diamonds. Or if you have a damaged stone, there’s a good chance we can renew it with this specialized cut, says Robin.” And it doesn’t stop there. Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design continues to lead with its unparalleled selection of innovative jew-
Winter 2015–2016
One step inside Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design and you know you’re somewhere special. For over thirty years, this locally-owned jewelry store has set the bar for integrity, quality, and customer service. From the extraordinary jewelry wholly designed and made by their award-winning in-house master jewelers, to the wide range of the world’s top jewelry designs, Burnell’s continues to impress. Now they also have a custom Design Suite where customers can bring their ideas to life.
elry lines by top designers from around the world. Or, if you want to see about your own design, you’re invited to use their all-new Design Suite. With the help of cutting-edge software, Burnell’s award-winning designers will work with you to create a piece that’s uniquely yours. In the end, that’s the ultimate goal: finding jewelry that is beautiful, durable, comfortable, and truly matches your wishes and lifestyle. That’s one more area where Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design excels—in helping you make the decision that’s right for you. Regardless of your budget, the occasion, or who you are buying for, Burnell’s is committed to helping you select the jewelry that’s perfect for you. Discover the difference in next generation Star 129 diamonds, and the most imaginative, and flat-out gorgeous jewelry in Wichita at Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design in the Mill Creek Shopping Center, 550 N. Rock Rd., 634.2822, or visit Burnells.com.
Tips on finding the perfect engagement ring, from Nathan Regan. 1. First and foremost you should feel comfortable with your jeweler, you should never feel pressured. You should be able to ask any questions you have and make sure you are getting the product you want. 2. If there’s nothing in the showcase that piques your interest, ask to look at other options. Often times a custom piece may be the answer. It may sound complicated and expensive, but we make it easy. Besides, if you give your fiancée a ring that you design, she’ll love it even more. 3. Once you have a ring that you are confident about you need to hand select a center gemstone. This doesn’t have to be a diamond. There is a rainbow of durable gemstones available that will give your ring more personality. 4. Relax and enjoy yourself! You’re making memories you’ll cherish for a long time.
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RadicalBubbles.com 316.204.4694 FREE ESTIMATES!
Owners Ann and Mike
We clean and repair all types of blinds and shades!
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Come see us at the 2016 Home Show! “Using Science to Clean Your Blinds”
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Beautiful Finds
A Peaceable Kingdom
Sometimes we run across something that’s so remarkable, so lovely, so captivating, that we simply must have it!
Nature’s Stories, from page 2
Deliberate Luxury Subtle glamour glimmers in master textile artist Aviva Stanoff’s luxury pillow collections. Here, Southern California’s beaches and lagoons provide inspiration for her exclusive fabrics celebrating creative surface design. Natural objects, including blossoms, feathers, and corals, are impressed deeply, in exquisite detail, into each stunningly unique fabric conception. No two are alike, and each is made by hand in America. Experience Aviva at Nelson Designs, 8340 E 21st St, The Shops at Tallgrass, 613.3450.
Dazzling Aromas Typically found in such renowned designer stores as Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, these sophisticated candles from NEST are also exclusively available from Wichita’s Individually Yours. NEST Fragrances offers a variety of exceptional personal care, home fragrance, and fine fragrance collections. Having quickly evolved into a luxury lifestyle brand, NEST is acclaimed for its complex fragrances, luxurious formulas, and exceptionally beautiful packaging. Follow your senses to Individually Yours, 128 N Oliver Ave, 683.7350.
Time Recycled Realizing the intrinsic beauty of the handmade, the Tubbin family turned a hobby into a thriving business. Starting modestly in art fairs, this duo saw their product lines expand nationwide to include whimsical wall art, metal-on-wood pieces, block letters and numbers, and birdhouses, created from memory-rich reclaimed wood enhanced by the priceless patina of time. Fall in love with the charm of days past at Frou Frou, The Shops at Tallgrass, 8340 E 21st St N #600, 651.0771.
Radiantly Rugged The Bracha jewelry line evolved from a mission to end human trafficking. Their unique, drop-dead-gorgeous designs are fashioned from natural stones, goldfilled metals, and semi-precious gemstones that are meant to symbolize beauty, resilience, and freedom. With every Bracha purchase, including this sparkly and sugary lavender druzy with 14k-gold-filled adjustable cuff, you help support the fight against modern-day slavery. Visit thea21campaign.org, and explore the brilliant world of Bracha at Lola Boutique, 4730 E Douglas Ave, 425.5533.
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old farmer and his wife begin to listen and even try to interpret the songs. The farmer becomes so enamored with the bird that he talks to it and vows to protect it from hunters. The book reveals Stratton-Porter’s feelings about nature. She clearly intends to make the reader sit up and take notice of how our attitudes and behavior can impact wild animals. Her method of delivery is far from preachy, though. Instead, she crafts beautiful prose that takes the reader into the cardinal’s world—a world rich with scented flowers and the need to propagate its own species. The Song of the Cardinal promises to have you discovering the world anew from “a bird’s point of view.” The Year of the Whale, by marine biologist Victor B. Scheffer, was written in 1969 and won the John Burrough’s Medal for Best Natural History Book. Originally from Manhattan, Kansas, Scheffer moved to Washington, where he received a doctorate in Author Victor Scheffer also wrote The Year of the Seal, using the zoology and co-founded same format of weaving facts the Washington chapter of the Nature Conservancy with a fictional tale. and the Audubon Society. The Year of the Whale shares the experiences and trials of a young sperm whale during the first year of his life as he traverses the ocean. What is especially valuable about this novel is that Scheffer weaves real facts about whales into his fictional story, which helps give readers an authentic view of the animal’s life. As one reviewer noted, the book provides a much greater understanding of these magnificent creatures along with an empathy for them. Scheffer succeeds in showing us that these amazing creatures are unique, beautiful, and worthy of our respect. Winter 2015–2016
The Front Porch Wichita
Design Network is one-of-a-kind Gas Can Kitchens makes it fun among Wichita carpet retailers and easy to create gourmet meals Large selection, competitive pricing, and personalized service make this business stand tall against big-box stores.
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esign Network is a rare gem when it comes to carpet stores. With the buying power of a giant retailer and the charm of a locallyowned business, it combines the best of both worlds in the flooring industry. “Coming to our store is a different experience than going to Lowe’s or Home Depot in that we provide one-onone, personalized service,” says owner Dan Daze. “You’re not being passed off to a salesperson. You’re dealing with the owner of the business. We have a very vested interest in making sure that our customers are happy.” Design Network forms part of the mighty CarpetPlus ColorTile group, an affiliation of flooring stores nationwide that have access to a vast inventory of carpet styles from all the major mills. As a CarpetPlus ColorTile retailer, Design Network has the ability to offer the latest in Since 1996 Design Network has offered the finest flooring trends while competing with carpets from America’s best mills. Their great buying edge means an unmatched selection of the latest big-box store prices. carpet fashions to fit your style. Dan and his wife Teresa Daze have twenty years of experience working in Network gives them the chance to provide the industry. Teresa channels her strong clients with a wide-ranging selection of tile, background in art and decorating to help wood flooring, natural stone surfaces, and window treatments in addition to carpet. customers make good design choices. “If people need help choosing the right And they make sure that the job is done right. product for the interior of their home, they Design Network warrants and guarantees a don’t have to hire a decorator or designer. professional installation performed by its very own crew. It’s a part of the personalized She can work with them,” Dan says. Dan and Teresa have a real passion about service that Dan and Teresa believe makes their business. They are an outdoorsy the difference that counts! To learn more about all the different couple who enjoys visiting national parks, and they see a clear connection between types of flooring available for your home, our attraction to nature and our desire or office, stop by Design Network’s showto incorporate natural elements into our room at 1927 S. West St., 722.5050, or home décor. Owning and operating Design visit FlooringWichita.com.
This locally-owned company is meeting the increased demand for the best new thing in outdoor cooking—pizza ovens!
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here’s no getting around it: from barbecue to smokers to grilling, food cooked outside tastes amazing. But a pizza oven will take your meals to a whole new level. According to Ryan Dirks and Aaron Young, owners of Gas Can Kitchens, there are plenty of reasons why pizza ovens are catching on. “Nothing compares to the flavor of food baked in a wood burning pizza oven,” says Dirks. “Most people know they’re the best way to make a A pizza oven is the must-have accessory for outdoor pizza, but what we love about them kitchens. They are a natural when it comes to outdoor cooking and a great addition to any entertaining space. is that they’re brick lined and insulated, making them super efficient for baking delicious breads and pies, making soups and stews, and a host of other delicious comfort foods. Plus, they don’t require cleaning!” The growing list of celebrity chefs with pizza ovens also means there are plenty of recipes for cooking and baking in them. Whatever reason you decide to have a pizza oven, it will add a delicious dimension to your cooking, fun to your entertaining, and be a visually appealing accessory for your garden and outdoor kitchen. Gas Can Kitchens has built their reputation by designing and installing stunning outdoor kitchens. They are committed to making the process smooth, and are satisfied with nothing short of impeccable results. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet outdoor kitchen, wanting to add a pizza oven, a patio with specialty lighting and a fire pit, or you want a pergola, pool house, porch, or deck, Gas Can Kitchens has the know-how, and the talent, to get the job done right. They incorporate practical details into their cutting-edge designs, and give each project the personalized care and attention it deserves. Pizza ovens are just one of the many reasons why Gas Can Kitchens has become the go-to place for Gas Can Kitchens always use fully outdoor living spaces. Their extraordinary outdoor welded steel frames in their outdoor kitchens and stunning indoor projects continue to kitchens. This space features beautiful “Wow” their growing number of happy customers. masonry, a natural flagstone patio, and Learn more about the benefits of a pizza oven, a wood burning fireplace. The natural or how you can have your dream outdoor living gas fire pit and adjacent stone bench, space, call Gas Can Kitchens at 316.530.1295. premium furniture, and outdoor lighting View their custom fire tables, grill islands, and fivecreate a warm and inviting oasis. star outdoor kitchens at GasCanKitchens.com
Let us do yourwe’llnextgiveremodel— you a beautiful smile! A Full Service Dental Office Full Mouth Restoration Cosmetic Dentistry
316.685.5121 Dr. Lowen Leatherman and Dr. Aaron Leatherman
LeathermanDental.com Winter 2015–2016
3837 North Woodlawn 5
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Noteworthy The Fine Art of IIlustration Parents and their children can view inspiring works of art in picture books.
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im Raglin remembers when he and his sister Pat took art lessons from a woman named Nelle Reneau in his hometown of Independence, Kansas. He was just a kid when he started learning one of the most difficult artistic mediums, pen and ink.“I practiced at home in between the weekly lessons. Nelle was a great teacher and made you feel like you were part of the great tradition of visual artists,” Raglin says. His fondness for drawing cartoons and animals naturally led to illustrating children’s books. He has also drawn for The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Smithsonian, and Sports Illustrated. Although Raglin says he has not mastered his technique, his drawings tell a different story. They are highly detailed; his pen-andink cross-hatching is precise. Because of his affinity for the 1920s and 1930s, his characters tend to wear clothes and accoutrements of that era, which complements the elegance of his work. Uncle Mugsy and the Terrible Twins of Christmas, for example, feels like it should be displayed on a mantel rather than stuck on a shelf. Uncle Mugsy was a collaborative effort with Eric Metaxas, an internationally best-selling author who penned the story. When you look at Raglin’s body of work, some other pretty big names stand out. Robin Williams narrated Pecos Bill, a Grammy Award-winning animated book that Raglin illustrated and co-directed. He recently started writing his own books. The Curse of Catunkhamun (catun-common) is a “pulpish adventure story” starring two dog detectives. (Think of the
canine versions of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.) The sequel, Footsteps in Katmandudu (cat-man-doo-doo), is due out next fall. Raglin is part of an artistic tradition that goes all the way back to the 1400s and the advent of the printing press, when illustrations first accompanied fables. The function of pictures, he says, is to tell parts of the story that the text does not. “The illustrator has a blank canvas to create a picture that’s a point-counterpoint to what’s being said in the text. That’s where the real magic of a picture book can happen,” he says. Illustrations have a didactic purpose, too. They help children decode language by reinforcing the words with images. Picture books foster creativity and aesthetic appreciation in young minds. To that end, Raglin enjoys visiting schools and libraries to share his work and talk about the process of developing pictures for children’s books. Give the gift of children’s literature this Christmas and during special occasions throughout the new year. To learn more about Tim Raglin and to purchase books featuring his art, visit TimRaglin.com.
Shades of Green Green
Plant Power, from page 2
cleaning products, tissues, and personal care products. The peace lily cleans indoor air of many environmental impurities. And the red-edged dracaena removes xylene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde, which can be brought in through lacquers, varnishes, and dry-cleaned clothing. Other houseplants that cleanse indoor air include the aloe vera, spider plant, English ivy, Chinese evergreen, jade plant, and golden pothos. A good rule of thumb is to use at least one houseplant per 100 square feet of indoor space. And houseplants can additionally purify the air by pulling contaminants into your potting soil, where rootzone microorganisms convert VOCs into food for the plant. All these are tangible improvements, but perhaps just as important are the intangibles. Houseplants have the capacity to soothe frayed nerves, slow the breath, relax the muscles, quiet the mind, and enhance the quality of your life. Green is a cool color and is thus thought to calm, heal, and refresh. It helps to relieve inflammation and lower blood pressure. By releasing some 97 percent of the water they take in as moisture vapor, houseplants increase oxygen levels and humidify indoor air, which means fewer vexing episodes of dry skin and fewer respiratory illnesses, including colds, dry coughs, and sore throats. The humble houseplant not only alleviates many seasonal ailments, but introduces a welcome pop of green—the harbinger color of spring—to battle those bleak winter blues.
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Front Porch the
winter 2015–2016
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
Contents copyright ©2015 by Daniels Publishing, Inc.
Contributing Writers: Matt Nelson and Kat Schneider
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.
Copy Editor: Jo Bowman Contributing Graphic Designer: Hai Tran Web Development: Frantz Augustin Publisher’s Assistant: Shelbi Carpenter Publisher: Patrick D. Wherritt
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.
Daniels Publishing, Inc. | 2250 N. Rock Road, Ste. 118-J | Wichita, KS 67226 | 316.687.1968
Winter 2015–2016
The Front Porch Wichita
Wichita’s Best Selection of
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5400 E. Central ~ 682.8193 maxinesinvitations.com
Kitchen Tune-Up ® creates an urban chic makeover that “Wows” This award-winning local company is all about creating fresh new looks with custom touches that deliver form and function.
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his old, and very tired kitchen was in some serious need of a major remodel, and the homeowner wanted something with some real “pop.” Armed with ideas, but a tight time schedule and limited budget, she contacted Kitchen Tune-Up. Part of the success of this locally-owned, award-winning company is its great team of professionals. Owners Jim and Arlene Phillips, with designer Rachel Phillips have the years of experience, talent, and know-how, to transform old into new, with style. And, in a truly timely manner. In this case, they created a stunning design based on a perfect balance of minimalism and vintage. The result is a sleek, modern kitchen with an industrial edge, and an artistic touch that captured the heart of this homeowner. To begin, they installed new white painted maple Shaker-inspired cabinets. Adding a soft-close feature on the doors and drawers is a nice custom touch that will be Before
Winter 2015–2016
This amazing kitchen won the November, 2015, Project of the Month Award.
appreciated for years to come. Linear glass mosaic tile in a soft blue-grey was used for the backsplash behind the new stainless steel range, as well as above the counters, which are a beautifully finished black matte concrete. While the stainless steel appliances and sink give the kitchen a modern look, the embossed tin ceiling treatment lend it an ideal touch of vintage. Industrial-style lighting fixtures, a woodtopped utility cart, and refinished, original wood floors bring it all together for a free-spirited kitchen that “Wows.” To schedule a free consultation in the design studio at 4057 N. Woodlawn, Ste 1, call 316.558.8888 or e-mail jphillips@kitchentuneup.com. Learn more at kitchentuneup.com, or Facebook at Kitchen Tune-Up, Wichita, Kansas.
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The Front Porch Wichita
Oh Yeah! China Bistro
HANA CAFE
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.
and Sushi Bar
Unique Asian Fare Drawing upon a background of more than thirty years’ experience in running successful sushi bars in New York and Boston, Jay and Eunice Kim serve a unique blend of Japanese and Korean cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Since opening in 1996, HANA CAFE has steadily gained favor with those who appreciate ultrafresh sushi and other artfully prepared-from-scratch Asian food.
Lunch: Mon–Sat 11-4 Dinner: Mon–Thur 4–10, Fri–Sat 4–11, Sun 12–10
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Chinese Cuisine with an Artful Flair
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
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
Winter 2015–2016
The Front Porch Wichita
Fine art photography becomes a mainstay at Dock 410 Together, a father and son find business potential in documenting the beauty of Kansas through the camera lens.
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nown for its collection of “cool stuff ”—furniture, bronzes, and eclectic décor—Dock 410 has expanded its inventory of curios to include “cool art.” And according to owner Mark Wilkes, there is a lot of it. “With three hundred thousand images, it’s hard not to find something that somebody likes,” he says. Dock 410’s archive of fine art photography contains pictures taken by Mark and his son, Taylor Wilkes. From Alaska to Arizona, they have captured this country’s most striking landscapes. Many of the photos were shot right here in the Sunflower State. Dock 410’s extensive collection is ideal for local businesses looking for art that will do more than fill wall space. Mark and Taylor’s work is stunning. The windswept plains, golden wheat fields, local wildlife, and Midwest sunsets compose imagery that is distinct to Kansas. Scenes like these convey a sense of roots when displayed in a corporate environment. While other shops merely sell whatever is hanging on the wall, Dock 410 offers
Winter 2015–2016
A Cold Stretch by Mark Wilkes “When I walk on a track and look into the future its like you can see forever. It’s ‘mezzzzmerizing’ and transcendental and transcontinental as well. On a cold wintery day with snow drifts and the sun setting on beautiful clouds I always take a moment to look at life in a different way and see the big picture. Keep it in between the tracks and keep looking up.”
in-house printing, image editing, framing, and genuine care about how a piece of art will look in the client’s home or office. Now there are more buying choices available for people who may not want to invest in a museum-quality print. For just under forty dollars, Dock 410 will print a poster reproduction of a customer’s favorite image. What began as a hobby in junior high school has turned into a major part of Mark’s expanding business. He and Taylor have just launched a website featuring their work from eight years of shooting Shocker basketball games. They currently give photography lessons, and next year they plan to teach workshops that will take people into the Flint Hills and Yellowstone National Park. “It’s a real blessing for me to share this and do this with my son,” Mark says. Stop by Dock 410, 410 S. Commerce St., 262.7330, or visit Dock410Wichita.com, and discover great finds for your home or office. Check out Mark and Taylor’s Shocker photos online at ShootAngry. Photography 9
The Front Porch Wichita
Rooms to Grow In, from cover You may have noticed that toddlers prefer small enclosures. It’s all part of learning how their tiny bodies relate to the environment. Parents can help by setting up fun places to do that, such as indoor tepees and tents. Young people need dedicated environments where they can feel free to be creative. In Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are, Max is sent to his bedroom, where he imagines that he rules over a vast jungle filled with beasts. Bedrooms are places where children can be masters of their domain and act out different roles using their miniature carpenter’s tools, stethoscopes, and appliances. At the same time, they can retreat to the quiet bedroom whenever they feel stressed or overstimulated. Kids will explore other areas of the house to appropriate. Parents can give them separate playrooms, which may help keep their bedrooms tidy. When children outgrow their toys, playrooms can be transitioned to areas for honing skills (an art studio, a game room, a computer room, etc.). Building a tree house has the dual benefit of promoting outdoor activity and introducing kids to basics in engineering and math. As they grow, children feel a greater sense of ownership over their bedrooms. It is important to let them express their identity through color and décor. It is also good to remember that a child’s taste can change from day to day. That’s why interior designers advise against putting a lot of effort into creating a theme for a bedroom. Parents may compromise with children to avoid extreme results. Mounting framed prints and sports memorabilia on the walls may be preferable to wallpapering the whole room with team logos. Accessories such as area rugs, bedding, curtains, Continued on page 12.
Clockwise from upper right: 1] “It’s good to update the rooms of college-age children while keeping some elements of their old room so they don’t feel like guests in their own house. I love taking favorite pieces of my children’s artwork, scanning them, blowing them up large, and framing them. The piece in the loft is a painting done by our son in grade school. We call it Gatto Polkie Dot-o, and I love the color and whimsy it brings to that space,” says Lizanne Guthrie of Design Studio Ltd. 2] Her son, who currently studies art in college, also did the painting above the bed. 3] Instead of a window seat, there are built-in shelves designed to display his favorite old and new pieces.
Below: For an older child”s bedroom, Guthrie recommends including comfortable seating and a private sitting area if space allows. Her daughter has a place to read with plenty of natural light. The map above the bed indicates her interest in world travel. Right: Some of the family’s favorite art hangs in the common area. The idyllic beach scene belonged to the daughter’s great grandmother, who commissioned an artist to reproduce an image she had seen in Architectural Digest. The other watercolor inspired the design of the sitting room. Although Guthrie’s son and daughter have different styles, the wicker furnishings in both rooms result in cohesiveness. Both bedrooms have a sitting area for reading.
Right: Forts, clubhouses, and tree houses encourage outdoor play. They provide children with a home base while they explore the wonders of the natural world. This family is lucky to live adjacent to a cornfield and wooded area. The bucolic landscape no doubt appeals to the adventurous nature of young children.
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Nelson Designs offers assistance in the full design of your home or office. Everything from selecting your color story, fine furniture, draperies and accessories to the installation of artwork and mirrors.
Art Expresses Who You Are
Visit our showroom, bring pictures, or call for a consultation today. Our desire is to make you happy with your choices and enjoy the process of transforming your house into your home!
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316.262.2435 412 E Douglas Mon–Sat 10–4 Last Friday of every month 5:30–9 pm TesseraFineArtGallery.com
8340 E 21st St • The Shops at Tallgrass • 613.3450 NelsonDesignsLLC.net
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.
Executive Park Eas t / L akeside Plaza, 250 N Rock Road, Ste 30 0 P
Winter 2015–2016
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Rooms to Grow In, from page 10 and lampshades will make different rooms special to their owners. And kids will interpret their parents’ help as a show of support in this endeavor. Impermanence is the key to ensuring that bedrooms can change as children grow. Quality furnishings are better than child-size built-ins that will have to be rebuilt later. The great thing about furniture is that it can be adapted and rearranged to alter the look of a room. As children’s styles change, headboards can be re-upholstered and furniture can be re-painted or refinished. The evolving décor of children’s bedrooms reflects the physical and personal transformations that they go through. By the time they’re teenagers, their rooms will be more than an expression of their current interests. The sports memorabilia, personal artwork, and dance trophies represent their dreams and aspirations for the future. When they go off to college, they will be living in new spaces (and, perhaps, with roommates who have very different ideas about what tasteful décor looks like). In the meantime, we hope their parents safeguard their bedrooms. Those special places will be a welcome sight when they return home for the holidays. Text by Matt Nelson, photography by Patrick Wherritt.
Clockwise from upper right: 1] The oil paintings of beauty queens on the left wall came from an auction at the Wichita Center for the Arts. They provide kindling for the imagination of little girls pretending to be princesses in castles. The skilled professionals at A&M Superior Upholstery finished the bookshelves with Ralph Lauren plaid backing. They also upholstered the sofa with pine-green velvet and the two club chairs with Ralph Lauren floral print and red bullion fringe. 2] Amid a pasture of fresh green walls, the fluffy lamb and toadstool are friendly accessories for any boy who loves plants and animals. Every child’s room should have a comfy chair for bedtime stories. The Pendleton blankets on the bed find all the colors in the room. 3] Three twin beds allow mom to join her two little angels for afternoon naps. A&M upholstered the bench at the foot of beds—along with the cornice and Roman shades—in an abstract print linen.
Clockwise from left: 1] A&M Superior Upholstery used its talents to define and accent the rooms of these two young people. The smart use of tone-on-tone blacks and greys lends a sophisticated touch to this young boy’s room. The parson chair has a ticking stripe slipcover. This family has visited France more than once and has acquired a lot of French antiques for the home. The desk and the stuffed elephant on wheels are two such pieces. The poster above the dresser is a French teaching aid showing a village scene. Mercury glass apothecary jars and baseballs form an unlikely bond on top of the dresser. 2] The daughter’s room has brighter colors. The headboard is upholstered in a vintage floral plain linen fabric while the blue monogrammed pillow is encased in cotton twill. There is an antique desk and wood wall art. 3] An armoire from the eighteenth century is topped with an antique brass baby bed (a family heirloom) that holds favorite stuffed animals.
Above: A&M upholstered this child’s French bergëre with fanciful pink-pattern fabric. Far right: The French wrought iron bench and chair have striped pink cushions to match the bergëre. Center: The French-style playhouse has everything a little girl could ever want—right down to a chandelier. Running water and airconditioning make playtime comfortable all summer long. There is plenty of room for the vast collection of antique French toys, a tiny dining set, fabrics, an ironing board, an oven, a crib, and cabinets that store toy dishware. The second level has room for sleepovers and even a sundeck! When the daughter outgrows the décor, the playhouse can easily be converted into an art studio, a craft room, a private study area, or a cool place to hang out with friends.
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CertaPro Painters of Wichita gives a fresh look to country living Expansive views are part of the allure of living in the country, but painting for the elements takes expertise.
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hat’s where the experience of Jamie and Jorge Ibarra, the owners of CertaPro Painters of Wichita comes in. They’ve been involved in just about every kind of painting project, big or small, commercial or residential, new construction, remodels, interiors, and whole home exteriors. They understand the nuances of each kind of job, and are committed to making sure that whatever the project demands, you get the kind of paint job you deserve—the very best! When it comes to taking care of your property, Jamie and Jorge know what will make your house look its best, and make it last longer. They take great care with every step. From appearance to durability, they make certain that every painting project is finished to the customer’s satisfaction. It’s what CertaPro calls the “Certainty” promise that accompanies every job. “We know people have a choice when it comes to allowing a contractor into their home,” says Jamie. “We consider it an honor when they choose us for their painting jobs, and we always strive to exceed their expectations” To Jamie and Jorge, painting is about making homes as beautiful as they can be. They love the work they do, as their finished projects clearly show. In fact, when it comes to painting, this family-owned local business Winter 2015–2016
These homeowners had invested a lot into their home, real wood trim, an inviting front porch, deck, and a second building for their country lifestyle. They knew they needed someone who could do quality work, and give them the durability needed to withstand the brunt of Kansas weather. They are so happy to find CertaPro Painters of Wichita. “They did an exceptional job—all the painting is perfect!”
continues to raise the bar on what defines a proper paint job. They start on-site, where they go over all your needs and address any special concerns, making sure all the details that are important to you are kept in mind. Advice from their professional color consultant is always free. And, the painting? Well, there’s a reason why CertaPro Painters of Wichita has become the go-to company for all kinds of painting jobs in Wichita. They are everything you want in a painting company, and more. As their growing list of testimonials attest, “they’re professional, detail-oriented, neat, honest, caring, and dependable.” Their customers are “especially happy to find a company that is on time, pleasant to work with, knowledgeable, and do perfect work.” That’s high praise, but Jamie and Jorge are committed to making sure CertaPro continues to provide the highest quality professional service in the area. They strive to be top of the industry, and the painters you can trust—now, and with all your future jobs. Contact CertaPro Painters of Wichita today and discover the difference. 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 send an e-mail to jabaker@certapro.com. 13
The Front Porch Wichita
A Warming Winter Supper Japanese Sweet Potato Latkes with Horseradish-Dill Sour Cream Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage Ginger-Spiced Applesauce Spaetzle with Hungarian Paprika and Parsley Sauce Winter Fruit Compote with Cinnamon-Walnut Palmiers Japanese Sweet Potato Latkes, Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage, and Ginger-Spiced Apple Sauce
By Kathy Heaton Photography by Patrick Wherritt
A Warming Winter Supper Long winter evenings give us an opportunity to experiment with new ways of preparing old favorites, creating new memories.
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hen I was a young girl, winter evenings were a time to celebrate as a family. My mother would cook up something fun to eat, and as we gathered ’round the table, we would delight in sharing the various combinations we could create with all the goodies she placed before us. One of my personal favorites were what she would call “potato pancakes,” but since then I’ve come to realize that her recipe more resembled the traditional meal of latkes, which we always pronounced, “lat-keys,” but are known in New York City as “lat-kuhs.” Accompanying these crunchy little treats would be homemade applesauce and sour cream. In our menu here, we’ve taken a few liberties with those original pancakes. For the main ingredient, we used Japanese sweet potatoes, which have a similar texture to potatoes, but are a much better choice if you want to prepare them in advance by forming the patties and keeping them covered in the refrigerator overnight. To warm things up a bit, we added horseradish to the sour cream, which is also flavored with fresh dill. Applesauce is incredibly easy to make, takes very little time, and with the abundance and variety of apples available this time of year, it’s hard to go wrong with whatever kind you choose to use. In this Spaetzle with Hungarian Paprika and Parsley Sauce case, we selected Jonagold apples, and instead of the traditional cinnamon seasoning, we added fresh grated ginger, giving it an extra little kick that we think you’ll find to be just right. To round out the meal, we have sweet and sour red cabbage and what probably will become your family’s favorite kind of dumpling—spaetzle, finished with the subtle flavors of Hungarian paprika and parsley. As the meal’s grand finale, we suggest a simple winter fruit compote made with dried plums, figs, currants, apricots, and slightly poached fresh pears. Flavored with quality vanilla bean paste and a little lemon, it will satisfy the sweetest tooth in the house. Feel free to add your favorite sugar cookie for something crunchy. We found that puff pastry, left over from the holidays, was easily and quickly transformed into delicate cinnamon-walnut palmiers. Remember, there’s no need to include all these items to create a satisfying supper. Making memories is what winter suppers are truly all about, and we hope that some of these recipes create new memories for you and yours
Japanese Sweet Potato Latkes with Horseradish-Dill Sour Cream
Blend all the ingredients together and place the mixture in the refrigerator to keep until ready to use. Can be prepared a day in advance.
Latkes
Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage
4 cups grated Japanese sweet potato; it’s fine to leave the peels on 1 shallot, finely diced approximately 1/4 cup water 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup garbanzo bean flour (or you can use all-purpose flour) 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons cornstarch vegetable oil for cooking
Mix everything except the water together in a large bowl. Add the water, a little at a time, mixing until the batter comes together. The mixture may seem delicate at first, but take a large spoonful and try shaping it into a patty; place the patty on a cookie sheet covered with parchment or waxed paper, then lightly flatten it. If the patty holds together, you’ve got the right amount of liquid. If necessary, add a tablespoon or more of water to get the right consistency. Once the patties are all formed and lightly flattened on the cookie sheet—perhaps a total of 15 latkes—you can cover them and put them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to cook the latkes, preheat a cast-iron skillet or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. If using a cast-iron skillet, you will need to heat about 1/4 cup of vegetable oil before adding the latkes. If you have a non-stick skillet, a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil will be enough. When the oil is hot, add the latkes, being careful not to crowd them too much. Cook them about 4-5 minutes on the first side. When you observe that the latkes are beginning to brown nicely, turn them and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the latkes and put them on a sheet covered with paper towels or brown paper bags to absorb the excess oil. Place the latkes in a warmed oven until all are made.
Horseradish-Dill Sour Cream 3/4 cup non-dairy sour cream 3 tablespoons minced fresh dill 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish Optional: Fresh horseradish is much milder and can be grated and served on the side to accompany the latkes.
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4 cups thinly sliced red cabbage 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons water 3 tablespoons sugar
Put all the ingredients in a large saucepan, stir, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the cabbage is tender, about 30–45 minutes, depending upon your preference. If you are cooking the cabbage the day before, remove it when it’s still a little crisp; when it’s reheated to serve the following day, it will soften a bit more. Keep an eye on it, however, as you don’t want it to be mushy.
Ginger-Spiced Applesauce 6 Jonagold apples, peeled and sliced 1/3 cup water 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1-2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger, depending on the amount of spiciness you prefer
Put the apples, water, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan, stir, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the apples are soft, about 20 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of the grated fresh ginger and let the mixture cook for another 10 minutes. Taste and see if the heat from the ginger is enough. It will warm the applesauce as it sits, but if you prefer a bit more heat, add the additional teaspoon of ginger. Cook for another 10 minutes and then remove it from the heat. Bring the applesauce to room temperature, then cover and cool it in the refrigerator. Can be made a day or two ahead of time. Remove the applesauce and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Spaetzle with Hungarian Paprika and Parsley Sauce The easiest way to make spaetzle is with a spaetzle maker, but in a pinch, a food mill with the largest hole attachment will work very well. Also, to keep the dumplings soft, but not too fragile, we suggest using semolina flour with a little chickpea flour mixed in to add a nice flavor.
Spaetzle 1 1/2 cups semolina flour 1/2 cup chickpea flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup water 1 tablespoon olive oil
Mix the flours and salt together in a large bowl. Add the water and stir until the batter is smooth. Cover the batter with a tea towel and set aside for approximately one hour. The batter should be thicker than pancake batter.
Hungarian Paprika and Parsley Sauce 2-3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon Hungarian paprika 1/4 cup finely minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
Pour the 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a non-stick saucepan. Add the paprika and parsley and mix all over low heat, and, in effect, set aside. You won’t actually be cooking the spaetzle; it’s just to keep the dumplings warm in the sauce as you finish making them all and are ready to serve.
To Assemble To make the spaetzle, bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Also have ready a large bowl of cold water with a colander sitting in it. Add the tablespoon of olive oil just before you begin to drop the dumplings into the water. As each batch of spaetzle is done, gently remove them from the boiling water with a slotted spoon and place them into the cold water to stop them from cooking any longer. When the next batch is ready to remove from the boiling water, use the colander to remove the earlier batch from the cold water, and place the dumplings into the saucepan with the paprika and parsley sauce to keep them warm until they’re ready to serve. If the water gets too warm, you can replace it with a fresh batch of cold water. If you’re fortunate enough to have a spaetzle maker, follow the manufacturer’s directions, or if you use a food mill as we did, fill the food mill with the batter, hold it over the boiling water, and turn the handle. The batter will break off in nice inch-long lengths, but if you need help with that, simply use a table knife to cut them free from the food mill. The spaetzle will sink to the bottom of the pan, but as they cook, they’ll rise to the top, where you can gently scoop them up and place them in the cold water. Repeat until all the batter has been used. Gently stir the cooked spaetzle that’s been staying warm in the paprika and parsley sauce and serve. Continued on page 15.
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From cooking to entertaining you’ll find everything you need at All Things Barbecue Chic and eco-smart products for savvy cooks are a natural addition for this Wichita phenomenon.
Winter Fruit Compote and Cinnamon-Walnut Palmiers Fruit Compote 1 cup dried figs 1 cup dried plums 1/2 cup dried currants 1 1/2 cups dried apricots 1 large fresh pear, peeled and sliced thinly 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste zest of one lemon juice of one-half lemon
Put the dried figs, plums, and currants into a medium saucepan with enough water to just cover. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, cover, remove from the heat, and set the mixture aside until it’s cooled. In another saucepan, put the apricots and pears with water to cover and bring them to a simmer over medium heat. Cover, remove from the heat, and set aside until they also have cooled. It’s important to cook the fruits separately because the figs, plums, and currants can muddy the lighter colors of the apricots and pears. When the fruits have cooled, pour the liquid from both pans into a large bowl, add the vanilla bean paste, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the fruits and allow all to sit for several hours. It can be made the day before, but keep the pears and apricots separate to maintain their color, and add to each serving last; be sure to spoon a bit of the flavored syrup over them.
Palmiers 2 teaspoons cinnamon 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or baker’s sugar) 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed, and a little flour 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped finely
Heat the oven to 400°F. Stir the cinnamon and coconut sugar together in a small bowl and set aside. Sprinkle your work surface with flour and unfold 1 pastry sheet on the floured surface. Sprinkle the pastry sheet with the cinnamon-and-sugar mixture and the walnuts. Starting at both short sides, roll the pastry toward the center, bringing both sides together in the center. Slice the rolled rectangle into 3/4-inch slices. Place the slices approximately 1-inch apart on a baking sheet. Bake them for 12 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown. Remove the palmiers from the baking sheet and cool them on wire racks.
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s Wichita’s leading provider of quality, high-end barbecue equipment, All Things BBQ knows a thing or two about growing a business. Adding relevant, indemand products is an important element of their growth thus far. Following in that vein, All Things BBQ has added an extensive line of houseware products to their offering. Brands like Riedel, Architec, Totally Bamboo, and VacuVin are now available at the store. New items include natural, high-quality cutting boards in both wood and recycled materials, vacuum seal marinators, varietal specific wine glasses, and temperature controlled serveware.
All Things Barbecue now offers an abundance of premium, and high-performing, housewares to complement your kitchen and favorite recipes.
Austrian glassware company Riedel is the standout star of All Things BBQ’s new houseware lines. Following on the success of two popular wine pairing classes this year, the store has expanded their glassware line to include Riedel’s entry level “O” stemless wine glass collection. These varietal specific glasses are great for everyday use and fit nicely in standard kitchen cabinets. Riedel’s Veritas glass collection is also represented at All Things BBQ. Veritas is a higher-end, stemmed
As All Things Barbecue continues to expand its wide-ranging offerings beyond grills and sauces, it’s easy to call it, “All Things Cooking.”
collection that is recognized industry wide as the crème de la crème of glassware. Decanters, spirit glasses, and gift sets round out All Things BBQ’s barware collection. Totally Bamboo is another brand addition that customers will find valuable. As consumers look for more sustainable options in a variety of products, bamboo is becoming a very popular material. It is an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional timber. All Things BBQ carries Totally Bamboo cutting boards in a wide range of sizes along with their other cooking related items. The addition of houseware items makes All Things BBQ a one stop shop for all things cooking and food. Customers already love their popular line of cooking classes and have been asking for more indoor food prep items for some time now. The line between outdoors and indoors is continually blurring with the popularity of outdoor kitchens and year round outdoor entertainment spaces. As always, All Things BBQ is focused on helping consumers find the correct grills and smokers to meet their individual needs and provides high quality products to make the cooking experience more versatile, convenient, and fun. Discover the difference that quality lines can make in your cooking experience. Visit All Things Barbecue at 818 W. Douglas Ave in the Historic Delano District, call 440.3950, or visit online at ATBBQ.com
ROOFING - OUTDOOR LIVING - SIDING - REMODELING
FROM YOUR HOME TO YOUR BUSINESS...
YOU NAME IT. WE DO IT.
Ask about our TRUE LIFETIME WARRANTY! www.NEWIMAGEROOFING.biz Winter 2015–2016
316.201.1180 15
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LivingSound’s design expertise brings back the magic of movies Dim the lights, crank up the sound, and get the popcorn ready.
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hen it comes to technology, LivingSound has the very finest equipment and the people who understand how to make it all work—seamlessly. They are dedicated to making home entertainment as enjoyable as you can imagine it to be. So, when recently asked to design a cozy and intimate home theater space for an East Wichita patio home they were more than up to the challenge. An extra unfinished basement space was ideal for a six seat home theater, complete with custom lighting, designer acoustic treat-
ment and a full 7.1 surround speaker system featuring nine Bowers & Wilkins Custom Theater speakers installed in the walls and ceiling. A Rotel surround processor and high power amplifiers provided superior sound quality and punch when needed. LivingSound designed the room to hide the speakers behind the acoustic treatment in the front of the room, on each side wall, behind and below the screen, and in the ceiling. Positioning speakers behind the acoustically transparent screen delivers a real big-movie theater experience for everyone in the room. Movies, tv shows and sports all come alive with sound covering every square inch of the room’s interior. Two levels of fully reclining leather theater seating, including a full bench seat in the rear, makes every seat in the house the best seat in the house.
“We’ve had the privilege of designing and installing amazing systems in some of the most beautiful and elegant homes in the area,” says Gary Jones, owner of LivingSound. “We excel at creating custom spaces and to that end, we work with the finest designers and builders in Wichita.” This project began with the insight of the homeowner’s interior designer Skip Brasted, was constructed by Guthridge Nighswonger, and included custom wrought iron and glass sconces by Jensen Design.
To best utilize the space under the stairs, a striking wet bar was designed with an entrance from the theater through a hidden acoustic panel incorporated into the room’s design. Although small, the bar is fully functional with a bar sink, two under-counter wine chillers and custom shelving with led lighting. A popcorn station was added to make intermission breaks more convenient for family and guests.
Once inside the room, one touch on the Universal Remote Control system brings the room to life, automatically powering on the projector, electronics and custom lighting. The JVC projector was installed in a utility room behind the home theater to save ceiling space and ensure cool and quiet operating during those soft movie passages. The remote is also used to control the video source, selecting from cable TV, Bluray disc or streaming HD movies and television via an Apple TV. Pre-set lighting scenes allow the viewer to select a pause or ‘intermission’ mode which pauses the show and brings the lighting up to a higher level. A ‘demo’ mode can be selected where led lighting softly illuminates the built in speakers and ceiling treatment casting a soothing blue hue over the room. Discover how LivingSound can design a beautiful home entertainment experience with a custom installation of superb audio and video gear specifically for you. Stop in their newly remodeled showroom at the Waterfront, 10096 E. 13th St N. #138, call 425.6340 or visit LivingSoundHome.com to schedule a free in-home consultation. Follow LivingSound on Facebook to learn more.
A sophisticated look that complements every decor.
Come in today and let Philip and Noelle show you the latest in crisp clean lines, silken textures, and pure luxury under foot.
8336 E. 21st St., Ste 600, Just East of 21st & Rock Road | The Shops at Tallgrass | 682.0033 | WichitaRugs.com 16
Winter 2015–2016