ABODE Fall 2023

ABODE OCTOB E R 2 0 2 3

Bring the

OutdoorsIn tdoors In O C TO B E R 2 0 2 3

TREND TALK:

COZYCORE

SOLAR Made Simple

karr bick K ITCH E N • B ATH • W H ER E VE R

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Top St. Louis Sale Price of 9.1 Million in 2022 #1 Sales Associate in the Ladue/Clayton Coldwell Banker Gundaker office Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Sales Associates Nationwide

TH E RYAN TR AD ITI O N

A H E R I TAG E O F E XC E P T I O N A L R E A L E S TAT E S E R V I C E S I N C E 1 9 6 5 JOHN RYAN | 314.941.0572 | johnryan@coldwellbanker.com ANNA KICI | 314.285.7744 | anna.kici@cbgundaker.com | theryantradition.com

ABODE

CONTENTS

Designer Insights 08

Nick Liuzza of NJL Custom Homes

Trends to Try 10

Bringing the Outside In

15

The Cozycore Trend of 2023

Function & Form 21

Finishes and Furnishings

26

Laundry Rooms

Inside Look 30

Lia Holter’s Euro-Inspired Home

Shop Local 36

Custom Cabinetry in St. Louis

42

Polish Pottery in St. Charles

Photo courtesy of Centro Modern Furnishings

21

Photo by Anne Matheis

50

Take It Outside 46

Solar Panel Tips

Inspired Interiors 50

1930s Dream Home

by Liston Design Build

58

Warm and Rustic Retreat

by C&M Interiors

On the cover…

The Iowa House, designed and styled by C&M Interiors, exudes autumnal warmth with natural and rustic elements. Learn how to balance cozy charm with modern refinement starting on p. 58.

Cover photo by Corey Hogrefe, CH Studios LLC

Photo by Carmen Troesser

36

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE!

PERFECT HOMES. FAMILY HOMES. DREAM HOMES.

CONNECT WITH US

·

· 314-725-5100 | LAURAMCCARTHY.COM | 29 THE BOULEVARD · CLAYTON

CONNECT WITH ABODE AND LADUE NEWS

LADUE NEWS ABODE PUBLISHER Ian Caso

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Adams | eadams@laduenews.com

Follow the Ladue News Facebook page to keep up with the latest home décor trends. Each week, look forward to THE TRIO column, which showcases three pieces ideal for updating your interior design.

MANAGING EDITOR Ashley Klein | aklein@laduenews.com DIGITAL EDITOR & STAFF WRITER Amanda Dahl | adahl@laduenews.com COPY EDITOR & STAFF WRITER Madeleine Ackerburg | mackerburg@laduenews.com

Photo supplied

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Emily Standlee | estandlee@laduenews.com STAFF WRITER Charlotte Renner | crenner@laduenews.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bethany Christo, Drew Gieseke, Alecia Humphreys, Connie Mitchell, Brittany Nay, Hope Timmermann

Get a peek inside luxurious local homes by following @laduenews on Instagram. Photos from the DESIGN ELEMENTS column show off stunning work by some of the top interior designers in the metro area.

ADVERTISING VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Kevin Hart | khart@stlpostmedia.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Katie Ray | kray@laduenews.com Erin Wood | ewood@laduenews.com SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER Maggie Peters | mpeters@laduenews.com

Photo courtesy of Chelsea Design Company

CLASSIFIED ACCOUNT MANAGER Lisa Taylor | ltaylor@lee.net

CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR Dawn Deane | ddeane@laduenews.com ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Laura De Vlieger | ldevlieger@laduenews.com

See something in the magazine that inspires you? Follow Ladue News on Pinterest to save your favorite FEATURES for whenever you need a creative spark.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Alise O’Brien, Kip Dawkins, Corey Hogrefe, Christina Kling-Garrett, Photographie by Li, Anne Matheis, Karen Palmer, Carmen Troesser

CONTACT Photo by Alise O'Brien, courtesy of Rebekah Moore Murphy

901 N. 10th St., St. Louis, MO 63101-1250 314.863.3737 | LadueNews.com A L E E E N T E R P R I S E S P U B L I CAT I O N

4 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

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LADUE LA DUE NEW NEWS

ABODE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

I

t doesn’t matter how much I love my home, how happy I am with the way I’ve decorated, or even how much time and effort I’ve put into redesigns and renovations.

Every few years … I get the itch. I have to change it all. I crave new colors, I dream of new hardware, and someone has to hide the sledgehammer because I am finally – finally – going to knock down that bathroom wall.

That’s why I love – nay, am obsessed with – this edition of ABODE. From cover to cover, we are sharing expert ways to incorporate small changes that have the biggest impact on your favorite living spaces.

On p. 21, local experts advise how to ensure you’re picking finishes, details and furnishings that will never go out of style.

And if you, like me, live for the seasons of home décor in which all is comfy, warm-toned and candlelit, turn to p. 15.

We’re breaking down the details of the “cozycore” phenomenon and telling you where to shop it locally. Speaking of shopping locally, do not miss the feature on Siostra, the Polish pottery boutique Photo by Christina Kling-Garrett in St. Charles, on p. 42. These quality, heirloom-worthy pieces will be all you’ll want to gift this holiday.

If you’re not as enthused as I am by the impending months of hibernation, turn to p. 10, where local experts tell you all you need to know to bring the outside in this season. And for a way to harness the power of the outdoors, check out p. 46 for the ultimate guide to installing solar panels in your metro area home.

We’d be remiss in this edition not to mention some of the most popular types of home renovation projects. On p. 36, we’re talking cabinets with some of the metro area’s most sought-after custom cabinet craftspeople. And on p. 26, learn how to make a laundry room that’s as pretty as it is practical.

Don’t even get me started on the insanely gorgeous home redesigns we have scattered throughout these pages – including the Euro-inspired kitchen of none other than Lia Weber of Made. by Lia bakery on p. 30.

I promise you, every story in this edition will give you the itch, too.

Happy living,

Emily Adams

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Designer INSIGHTS With Nick Liuzza NJL Custom Homes

By Alecia Humphreys Photos courtesy of NJL Custom Homes Nick Liuzza believes no two homes should look the same. That’s why he founded NJL Custom Homes, his Kirkwood-based business that rejects formulaic home design in favor of constructing spaces that honor the individuality of each client.

“I liked the opportunity to design something that was new, unique and a one-off build,” Liuzza says. “I saw there was a whole other world out there that didn’t necessarily exist in the production world that I was currently in, which spurred me to start my own business a little over a decade ago.”

NJL Custom Homes supports clients every step of the way during the home construction process.

“We will help people find a lot to build on, we will help them design the actual plans, and then we will build the home,” Liuzza says. “On top of that, we have two designers in-house on staff, so we will get all the way down to the nittygritty of the tail end of a project – custom drapes and blinds, plantation shutters and wallpaper, landscaping … we’ll take it as far as our clients want us to.”

NJL Custom Homes, 556 Leffingwell Ave., Kirkwood, 314-575-7481, njlcustomhomes.com

Entertaining Made Easy.

“We used to do a lot more theater rooms. Now, I feel as if people don’t necessarily gather that same way – [they] don’t invite somebody over to watch a movie and turn the lights off in a theater room [as often]. Now, people want to watch the Super Bowl together in a space that has options for other entertainment at the same time. Another big thing we’re doing is specialty golf rooms in basements or golf simulators, which is a fun way for people to interact, hit some golf balls and play games.”

Home Must-Have.

“The biggest thing you need is a place for your family to gather. Most [NJL] home designs have inviting great rooms or family rooms and big kitchens with large islands that people can gather around while someone is cooking – just a shared space for family and friends to come together and bond.”

Pro Tip. “Think about how you intend to use the space and what goals you’re trying to accomplish.

We can build beautiful homes; that’s easy. But they need to be beautiful and be functional for how your family is going to live at the same time.”

On Trend.

“One popular trend we’re seeing is what we call ‘prep kitchens’ or ‘dirty kitchens.’ This could be a fully separate working kitchen or a large walk-in pantry that has an extra dishwasher and extra space to keep appliances like your toaster oven or a coffee-maker. Having a designated ‘prep zone’ can keep your kitchen organized and open for entertaining, even though it’s the place where you’re doing the actual cooking.”

THE POSSIBILITIES ARE YOURS TO DEFINE.

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Force of

Nature HOW TO INCORPORATE NATURE’S AESTHETIC INTO A TRANQUIL INDOOR SPACE

By Bethany Christo | Photos by Karen Palmer

10 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

T

he soothing elements of nature, from the joy of plant parenting to harvesting a garden to an invigorating walk in the woods, are well-known to have a restorative effect on your physical and mental well-being. With so many benefits to the outdoors, it’s no wonder that many homeowners are seeking to replicate nature’s beauty inside their homes.

“I think being cooped up during COVID gave people a new appreciation for their homes and for nature,” says Marcia Moore of Marcia Moore Design.

“The sterile feel of minimalism started to lose its appeal. We have many people who want greenery but don’t have green thumbs or a lifestyle that can accommodate real plants, so we use lots of faux plants in those homes.

Whether real or fake, plants create a warm, cozy environment and add peacefulness to a room.”

A renovation Moore completed for a Town & Country family earlier this year is a perfect example of creating an indoor oasis. The soon-to-be empty nesters decided to stay in their five-bedroom, five-bathroom house and remodel rather than downsize to a condo. The two-year renovation included updates to the entire main level with new furniture, paint, wallpaper, lighting, area rugs and accessories, in addition to total primary bathroom and partial kitchen remodels. Moore worked alongside interior designer Kathleen Matthews, who completed the front entry, office and powder room.

Knowing this would be their forever home, the clients wanted a sophisticated yet relaxing space that emanated joy, peace and functionality with an international flair that highlighted their Colombian heritage.

“They loved live plants, but in addition to that, their daughter was studying horticulture and landscape architecture, so she was propagating many, many plants,” Moore says. “When we started, they were all over the living room. One of their first requests was to find some kind of attractive shelving unit for all the baby plants. Their only absolute directive was no fake plants.”

In addition to cultivating casual elegance, Moore was challenged to place the living greenery in spots with sufficient sunlight and distance from heating vents while also looking intentional. She didn’t purchase any plants – all belonged to the homeowners; she just artfully arranged them. Her favorites included the large majesty palm in the living room that not only fills the room with supple splendor but also hides a large cat tree behind it (“The perfect place for Waffles the cat to sleep and watch the birds!” Moore adds), as well as the elegant fiddle-leaf fig near the bathtub that creates a relaxing tropical oasis in the primary bathroom.

I wanted it to feel like eating on a screened porch at twilight.

The grid pattern looks like wood in between screens, and the muted tones feel like the color of plants at dusk.

- MARCIA MOORE

The living room was prime real estate for plants, so Moore needed to make sure she left enough open floor space for the large plants and enough shelving for the small plants.

“Plants that needed lots of sun were near the windows; those that just needed bright light were further into the room,” she says. “Using warm wood tones, like walnut cabinets for the bathroom, kitchen island and coffee bar, as well as the faux burl wood painted on the fireplace and pillars, brought another natural outdoor element inside.” This is accomplished in the eye-catching art, like the commanding metal sculpture above the fireplace and the agave plant-inspired floral chandelier in the front entry.

The biggest remodel of the project was the primary bathroom – the color scheme for which was pulled from the red-leafed tree directly outside its main window. The crimson bath towels were chosen to match, and the tree served as a focal point for the tub’s orientation. “The primary bathtub was angled so you could enjoy nature while soaking rather than staring at a wall or into the room,” Moore says, adding that she loves everything about this particular remodeled room. “Walnut cabinets; flooring and shower walls in a marble pattern; tile that looks like wood parquet on the shower floor and under the tub; open, airy metal pendants and gold fixtures – all are to die for.”

Another of Moore’s favorite elements was the wallpaper chosen for the office and dining room. In the office, Kathleen Matthews coordinated with the existing orange-hued woodwork to match the floral wallpaper with East Asian influences and bring natural elements into a north-facing room that didn’t get much light. The dining room wallpaper from Dutch brand Daisy James served a similar purpose for Moore. “I wanted it to feel like eating on a screened porch at twilight,” she says. “The grid pattern looks like wood in between screens, and the muted tones feel like the color of plants at dusk.”

If you’re interested in incorporating the outdoors indoors in your own home, Moore has a few easy ways to do so: “First, start with one large plant or three plants of different sizes and textures in the corner of a room, and see how it makes you feel. That might be enough for you. You can always add more.

Second, if you know you are going to kill a real plant, go faux!

Don’t feel bad your thumb isn’t green. Enjoy the plant without the guilt or the hassle. Third, don’t buy cheap or cheap-looking faux plants. Spending extra for a realistic-looking plant is well worth it. Fourth, make sure you read about a live plant so you know how much sun, water, fertilizer and care it needs. That will help you make the decision between real or faux. And finally, if you have pets, make sure you purchase plants that aren’t poisonous to them.”

Marcia Moore Design, 7404 Bland Drive, St. Louis, 314-395-1114, marciamooredesign.com

12 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

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HOW TO MASTER THE “COZYCORE” AESTHETIC FOR FALL AND MAKE YOUR HOME ONE YOU’LL NEVER WANT TO LEAVE

Cozycore ERA

By Madeleine Ackerburg | Photos courtesy of J&J Design Team

I can’t get enough of adding sheepskins here and there whenever I can.

Talk about cozy!

It gives the space a boho-scandinavian feel and makes the living room feel extra comfortable.

– Jenna Siebert

F

or many, 2022 was the year of “cottegecore” – a romanticized, rural-inspired aesthetic featuring warm woods, rustic finishes, neutral tones and abundant florals. This year, countless “core” aesthetics have taken the interior design corner of the internet by storm, but one in particular – “cozycore” – will undoubtedly stand the test of time for its focus on creating feel-good spaces you never want to leave, which is exactly what Jenna Siebert had in mind while pursuing her newest design venture, a charming cottage-style home right next to Grant’s Farm.

“It’s important to me to create a special feeling when you walk into your home,” Siebert says. “Your house should take you to a comfortable space from the moment you walk through the door, which is the feeling we wanted to capture with The Farmhouse.”

Siebert has always had a passion for creating cozy spaces, which is why she launched J&J Design Team with her husband, Jason Siebert, in 2016.

Together with their daughter, Kenzie Siebert, the familyoperated team works to create comfortable, livable spaces with a special, “feel-good” vibe. The Farmhouse was a unique project for the team, who began working on the single-family,

three-story home in 2020. The two-year renovation period involved a complete gut and remodel of the three-bedroom, two-bathroom abode with new lighting, wallpaper, paint and furniture. Every detail in the freshly remodeled house, from the plush living room couch to the tiled bathroom wall and vintage vanity to the rattan furniture, was intentionally selected to create a cohesive aesthetic of warmth and comfort. The end result was an earthy, boho-farmhouse home with an eclectic mix of vintage and modern furniture.

Appealing to the five senses is a great place to start, Siebert says, for creating the perfect cozy space. Visually, she chose to freshen up The Farmhouse’s originally dull interior by painting the core floors, walls and stairs a bright white, and then added muted colors like earthly green to soften and balance the space. Textures are also important, like adding throw pillows and soft blankets or layering rugs with natural fibers, like Siebert did with the woven jute rug in the living room. “I can’t get enough of adding sheepskins here and there whenever I can,” she says. “Talk about cozy! It gives the space a boho-scandinavian feel and makes the living room feel extra comfortable.”

Light fixtures are another key way to add comfort to the home. Using soft white or yellow bulbs, candles, wall sconces or fireplaces to set the tone for fall is a great way to curate a specific mood, and incorporating plenty of natural light can make any room feel more welcoming. Incorporating plants into a space is also an easy way to make it feel natural, earthy and comfortable, and Siebert says you don’t have to have a green thumb to add a touch of the outdoors to your rooms.

“I’m a lover of plants,” she says. “I think a lot of people can relate to connecting with nature and feeling calmer and at peace when you’re outside. Bringing those plants inside is an effective way to make any space feel cozier. They don’t need to be live plants – artificial is completely OK and creates that same soothing feeling.”

Above all, Siebert emphasizes that creating the perfect cozy space is all about finding what works for you. For some of her projects, she enjoys making mood boards on Pinterest to create visuals for the bigger picture, which she adds could be helpful for homeowners experimenting with styling. “I used minimal décor in the home to create a fresh, clean feeling,” she says. “All of the rooms have this eclectic mixture in them, but not too much where it begins to feel cluttered and confusing. Start by finding a piece that speaks to you and sparks the inspiration for your next big project. That’s the fun part!”

J&J Design Team, jandjdesignteam.com, instagram.com/jandjdesignteam

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Finishing TOUCHES

By Connie Mitchell

Photo by Photographie by Li, design by Karr Bick

LOCAL DESIGN EXPERTS EXPLAIN WHICH DESIGN FINISHES AND FURNISHINGS WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME.

Photo courtesy of Centro Modern Furnishings

Photo by Photographie by Li, design by Karr Bick 22 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

D

esign trends come and go. Homeowners can chase them endlessly, and some do. Most recently, for example, of-the-moment magazine spreads, TV shows and social media accounts have some people tearing out granite countertops in favor of light-colored marble. But when it comes to both hard and soft finishes in your home, don’t let trends dictate your choices, two local experts say.

“Stick with what you love,” says Jenny Rausch, owner and kitchen and bath designer of Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath. “The current trends are just that – current trends. If you’ve always loved green, you’ll continue to love it.”

Todd Lannom, co-owner of Centro Modern Furnishings in the Central West End, agrees. He advises clients to steer toward classic textures and colors when choosing investment-grade furnishings.

“We suggest that clients keep trendy pieces to a minimum so they don’t tire of them and end up living with expensive mistakes. We look at pieces with longevity – rich textures and natural fibers never go out of style.”

In short, your home should feel aesthetically pleasing and reflect your personal taste, regardless of what you see trending. With that in mind, choosing finishes for your home is a process that can take time and thought due to the broad array of options available.

Centro offers many choices from European furniture brands that feature removable fabric covers for couch and chair cushions.

“You could splash out with colors or patterns in a space where that works, like a home theater or lower-level rec area. Those covers could then be changed out more easily than replacing an entire piece of furniture,” Lannom says. “With these manufacturers, we can order new covers that will be a perfect fit so people can be a bit edgier with their choices in these more flexible spaces.”

Photo courtesy of Centro Modern Furnishings

Public spaces, such as a great room, main floor hearth room or formal dining room, tend to be more suited to neutrals with pops of color in pillows, accent chairs, throws and accessories that can be changed with the seasons.

One color that may seem trendy but has staying power is gray.

“Gray is very neutral, like white or cream,” Lannom says. “It’s popular but not ‘trendy,’ and the nice thing about gray is that it can be cool with blue undertones or warm with brown or red undertones.”

Another consideration in finishes is texture. For furnishings, Lannom says natural fibers and leather remain popular choices, and his company works with European firms, such as the Italian leathermaker Poltrona Frau, which uses a more environmentally friendly process than other manufacturers and creates a high-quality product designed to stand the test of time. “Going with long-established manufacturers who take care to produce fine products might be more expensive up front, but I’ve never had anyone come back and say they wish they had bought a knockoff or a cheaper alternative.”

Whether choosing hard or soft finishes, go with what you love and don’t worry too much about consistency, Rausch adds. “Things do not have to match perfectly. When you mix and match, there’s a sense of ‘collected over time’ that adds warmth and coziness.

You want to feel at home in your space, and you want others to get that vibe, too. But the best advice is to find someone you trust to help you, and listen to them.”

Centro Modern Furnishings, 4727 McPherson Ave., St. Louis, 314-454-0111, centro-inc.com Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath, 2715 Mercantile Drive, Brentwood, 314-645-6545, karrbick.com

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Changing the

CHORE GAME

By Brittany Nay

CREATE A LAUNDRY ROOM THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO PUT THE RINSE CYCLE ON REPEAT.

D

esigning a laundry room that’s as practical as it is pretty is possible with these expert tips.

It’s all about location, location, location, according to St. Louis-based interior designer Joni Spear. Finding the perfect placement is the first step to creating an ideal laundry room, she says. “Optimally, you want existing plumbing nearby – that’s why it’s best to pick a location close to a bathroom or kitchen,” she explains. “If you are fortunate enough to have an existing window, all the better to allow natural light to shine through. If not, explore that option with your contractor.”

Another key consideration is space, Spear says.

“Select your appliances and sink prior to purchasing cabinets to ensure they fit,” she notes. “When space is limited, add stackable models. If you have ample room, opt for side-by-side appliances and place platforms underneath to raise the machines to a more convenient height.”

Ceramic tile or vinyl flooring works best to avoid water damage, as well as hardy, stainresistant countertops like quartz, granite and Formica, Spear advises.

Infuse functionality into the space by affixing pull-down racks, or hang a bar above the machines for line-drying, she says. “Suspending an old ladder horizontally from the ceiling offers a decorative detail with maximum functionality,” she adds.

For practical storage, attach hooks to the wall and include a tall cabinet for your ironing board, vacuum and mops, Spear suggests. “Be sure to implement outlets in convenient areas [for] your iron or steamer,” she continues.

You can make the area uniquely yours with wallpaper and colorful wall tile as a backsplash, she notes. And most importantly, Spear says, select a distinguished light fixture related to the theme to hang as a focal point and incorporate undercounter lighting for more intense illumination.

26 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

Photo by Alise O’Brien

SPANISH OASIS Spear transformed a local family’s poorly functioning laundry room into a Spain-inspired oasis.

First, the designer reconfigured the area to allow for more hanging space and storage, including relocating the washer-dryer to the opposite side of the room for more counter capacity.

A highlight of the design was a useful, sleek set of custom cabinets imported from Spain with modern slab-style doors. For a playful, colorful element, Spear says hardwood floors were replaced with Spanish-inspired encaustic tiles. Additionally, Schumacher blue and white striped café window panels invited natural light into the space while still providing privacy.

Spear’s favorite parts of the project are its pretty details, from the Samuel & Son’s pom-pom trim to the perching bird finials adorning the drapery hardware, she says, noting: “The Diego Grand Classical lantern in gilded iron by Visual Comfort completes the delightful composition.”

SMALL BUT MIGHTY SPACE For Spear’s own former home’s laundry room, she strategically moved the space from a kitchen closet to the second story, where clothes, towels and linens accumulated from the bedrooms.

Tiny but mighty, the space features a small Elkay sink for hand-washables, a quartz countertop and a retractable clothesline to hang-dry delicate clothing. Custom cabinets were added for storing linens and cleaning supplies.

The project’s backsplash was a pleasant surprise, Spear says.

“We used leftover black and white hexagon tile from the guest bathroom,” she explains. “There were only three black tiles, so I had to place them strategically.”

Photo by Kip Dawkins

THE FUN IN FUNCTIONAL Wendy Kuhn, lead designer at St. Louis-based Karr Bick Kitchen & Bath, turned an overcrowded, combined laundry and mudroom space into a beautiful, functional dream room.

“We stacked the washer and dryer to add counter space and relocated the pantry to the opposite side of the room to avoid walking into a crowded room,” Kuhn says.

The best features were the playful elements incorporated into the utilitarian space through cabinetry color and patterned floor tile.

Kuhn emphasizes that though practicality reigns supreme in the laundry room, it doesn’t have to be boring. “Have fun with the choices through color, wallpaper and interesting tile,” she recommends. “It’s a space where you can take risks. Make it a space you enjoy seeing!”

Joni Spear Interior Design, 314-614-9080, jonispear.com Karr Bick Kitchen & Bath, 2715 Mercantile Drive, St. Louis, 314-645-6545, karrbick.com

Photo by Photographie by Li

Welcome

LAURA DONOVAN

KATHLEEN LOVETT

314.229.8978 ldonovan@janetmcafee.com

314.610.7408 klovett@janetmcafee.com

In my 23 years in real estate, I have come to realize that it is all about service. Going beyond buying and selling properties, it is about building relationships and helping people achieve their dreams. It has been a fulfilling journey, and I look forward to many more years of serving my clients with passion and dedication.

For the past 25 years, I have been a successful real estate agent with a focus on building relationships. I am dedicated to providing an unbeatable level of service before, during, and after the sale. I thrive on providing the best possible experience for my clients by taking the time to get to know their needs and desires and working hard to ensure that their goals are met. My commitment to excellence has resulted in a large and loyal base of clients who trust me to handle their real estate needs.

CINDY HANDY

MELINDA MCCARTHY

314.489.3546 cindy.handy@janetmcafee.com

314.606.2180 melinda@janetmcafee.com

One of the things I love about real estate, is the one-on-one connection with people.

It requires trust and skill to guide a client through the process of buying or selling a home. Because our homes are such an important part of who we are, I find the process very rewarding.

I love what I do, and it shows! My 30+ years as a top Realtor is a reflection of my experience, market knowledge, responsiveness to and communication with my clients. I take great pride in my strong relationships with clients who I view as partners while we navigate your sale and purchase process.

I listen to your needs, and we work together as a team to get you the best possible outcome in this ever-changing housing market.

SUSAN JOHNSTON

TRICIA KOLBRENER

314.541.4149 susanjohnston@janetmcafee.com

314.504.5564 tkolbrener@janetmcafee.com

As a seasoned real estate agent, I provide luxury representation at all price points. With professionalism, expertise and integrity, I work hard to get the very best sale and results for each of my buyers and sellers. I love my job as my clients become trusted partners and friends.

I love the ever changing markets in the real estate industry. With 34 years experience, I have seen and worked through many challenging transactions. Let me help you with your next move!

LAURIE BUSCH

ANDREA MADDOCK

314.496.9654 lauriebusch@janetmcafee.com

314.518.6699 ahmaddock@janetmcafee.com

I am passionate about real estate, my clients, and their goals. My previous career with Anheuser- Busch instilled in me the high-quality service that I provide today. My core values are hard work, dedication and a strong partnership with my clients.

I enjoy working together with everyone involved in the buying and selling process. Helping clients and building relationships has earned me a top agent recognition year after year.

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A Tuscan

ESCAPE

THE BENEFITS OF DEKTON Introduced in 2013 by the global company Cosentino, Dekton combines manmade quartz with glass and porcelain that have undergone heat and compaction to become extremely durable.

Consumer Reports testing shows the new material is heat-resistant, stain-resistant and undamaged by chopping or cutting on its surface.

Lia Holter of Made. by Lia says of her newly installed Dekton countertops:“My husband, within the first week that we had it, goes to pour a glass of wine. And I’m not joking when I say the entire bottle of red wine spilled all over. I was like,‘Nooo!’ Luckily, it came up, and you cannot tell – there’s no red mark anywhere.Then, I was like,‘Alright, kids, do whatever. It’s bullet-proof now.’”

The warm aesthetic of Italy meets the clean, minimalist design of Nordic countries in this award-winning baker’s metro area home.

By Amanda Dahl | Photos courtesy of Lia Holter

L

ia Holter may be best known as the fourthseason winner of TLC’s “The Next Great Baker” or as the craft baker behind Made.

by Lia in Florissant, but she has another talent: a keen eye for interior design. Holter’s home in Old Town Florissant, “a hidden gem,” she says, northwest of St. Louis, has undergone a complete renovation this year.

“We knew right away that we were going to go with Pernikoff [Construction Company] because they did such an amazing job at the bakery,” Holter says. “The lead on the team, Brandon, has the eye of a perfectionist. You can tell that he’s put all of his time and love into the house.”

The Holter homestead’s original layout included three divided rooms on the main floor, a style that never suited the family, as they often spend their time together. Although knocking down the two loadbearing walls was a long-awaited dream come true, the project required additional strategizing with a structural engineer and time spent away from the family’s residence.

“We lived above my sister’s restaurant, Hendel’s, in a tiny apartment for a few months – but it was a really sweet time,” Holter says. “My kids stayed in a bunk bed together. We all ate around a little coffee table. It helped our family to grow closer. I’m really grateful for that opportunity and for the support of my husband, Max. He was the one who made all of this happen!”

The toughest part for the chef was not having a kitchen at her disposal. She made it work by using her popular bakery’s kitchen after hours, conveniently located a mere minute from her house, and counts herself fortunate to have family and friends who hosted the foursome for dinners. It made the final reveal of her family’s renovated kitchen that much sweeter.

Photo by Amanda Dahl

LADUENEWS.COM | ABODE | OCTOBER 2023 | 31

THE KITCHEN IS THE CENTER OF OUR HOME. I WANTED TO MAKE IT LIGHT AND AIRY, JUST LIKE THE BAKERY, BUT WITH A LOT OF TEXTURES. IT HAS A SUBTLE TUSCAN VIBE BECAUSE I’M ITALIAN, AND I LOVE TO COOK.

“The kitchen is the center of our home,” Holter says. “I wanted to make it light and airy, just like the bakery, but with a lot of textures. It has a subtle Tuscan vibe because I’m Italian, and I love to cook.” The goal of creating a family-centered space was achieved by marrying the sun-bleached aesthetic of a rustic Italian farmhouse to the minimalist design of a functionforward Scandinavian kitchen.

Black framed windows rush light in from every corner to bathe the interior in an inviting glow.

Floating open wooden shelves bring in earth tones and hold plates from the Holters’ wedding eight years ago.

A colorful clay tray made by the chef ’s brother doubles as a scrub brush holder beside the farmhouse sink. A brass magazine rack from Webster Groves’ Dharma + Dwell stores cutting boards. Iridescent square tiles in a pearly white serve as an attractive backsplash to the GE Café brand appliances sourced from St. Louis-based Fleck’s Appliance.

Pass the center island, made with durable Dekton, and step into the entertaining area, where a custom-built bar showcases rolling shelves for wine storage and a window seat invites guests to linger. The Holters added a textural element to each thoughtfully designed space, from the reeded doors on the bar to the vertical brick surrounding the living room fireplace to the real potted palms and rubber trees

32 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

– Lia Holter

Photo by Amanda Dahl

dotting the monochromatic home with vibrant green.

Echoing the interior spaces, the exterior’s original wood siding received a fresh coat of cream-colored paint and the cedar shake’s brawny texture offers a pleasing contrast that draws the eye.

“Bring your personality into your home,” Holter advises. “I think it’s so important that somebody can walk in [here] and be like, ‘Yeah, this would be Lia’s home.’” To view the entire renovation process, follow along on Instagram @madebylia.

Made. by Lia, 610 Rue St. Francis, Florissant, 314-551-2383, madebylia.com

Original, yet timeless.

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JEWELRY DESIGNED TODAY, MADE TO LAST FOR GENERATIONS AWARD WINNING CUSTOM JEWELER OF SAINT LOUIS

Last

Built to

By Alecia Humphreys

Design by Beck/Allen Cabinetry

Photos by Carmen Troesser

Choose unique, timeless cabinetry for your home with expert tips from St. Louis area designers.

Y

our cabinets often house your most meaningful keepsakes – the Dutch oven passed down through generations, the dining set you received on your wedding day or the favorite mug that holds your daily cup of coffee. Every household has unique needs, which is why customization can be important for homeowners looking for the perfect place for their prized possessions.

“Custom cabinetry is a great option because it can be tailored to the individual to better reflect their lifestyle,” says Serena Williams, designer at Beck/Allen Cabinetry.

“You can design bespoke pieces that are beautiful and timeless. There are plenty of opportunities for creativity, play and collaboration.”

These three components come together to create cabinets that mean more to a space than one might imagine.

“I think custom cabinetry sets the foundation and tone of the whole space that you’re in,” says Rebekah Murphy, founder and lead designer of Stone Hall Cabinetry. “It elevates it. It’s the component that brings everything together on a high-end level. Without custom design, it would look more like what everybody has – more ubiquitous.”

That is why every cabinet that leaves Stone Hall Cabinetry is entirely custom – from the frame and finish to every design and detail.

“The people who come to us are committed to the highest quality,” Murphy says. “We’re not just selling a great, superior cabinet product – you’re also getting design services, so the look and feel of the custom cabinetry is exactly how it’s supposed to be. We are not just regurgitating designs that everybody else has. Each design is treated like a piece of fine art.”

The process begins by considering each client’s lifestyle and plans for the future, Murphy says: “Ask yourself how long you plan to live in the home, what’s your budget and how you plan to use the space. It also helps when clients come into our showroom and see what they like and what they’re drawn to in terms of finishes – if they want something high gloss or something more understated.”

Other components to consider are the frame, door style, finish and hardware.

“It’s almost like choosing your clothes and getting your makeup done – doing it all in a tasteful way [ensures longevity],” Murphy says. “Our clients can walk into the space in 20 years and it will still feel right, classic and true to who they are.”

Williams also recommends clients decide what details are essential in their design.

“The attention to detail sets custom cabinets apart,” Williams says. “If you are using a certain wood species, we will grain match so that there is continuity of the wood grain between pieces. [A custom design also gives you] a wider offering of items such as luxury interior accessories or exotic wood species.”

Having more options at hand is helpful for achieving the exact look you want.

You can design bespoke pieces that are beautiful and timeless. There are plenty of opportunities for creativity, play and collaboration.”

– Serena Williams

38 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

“I love seeing wood tones making a comeback,” Williams says. “I'm noticing many warmer colors and dramatic finishes. For a while, everything appeared the same – white on white or white and gray. There is now a lot more variety.

Natural materials and neutral colors are classic. Don’t be afraid of color, but make sure to choose a color you genuinely love and not just a passing trend.”

Murphy wholeheartedly agrees.

“I get triggered by the word ‘trends,’” she says with a laugh. “We’re not going to be for everybody, but the people that we are for are committed to high-quality, custom, unique designs that are rooted in history – but are also pushing boundaries in 21st-century designs.”

Regardless of the route you choose, both designers stress how important it is to stay true to you.

“People spend a significant amount of time in their homes, and they want it to reflect their true selves, not just resemble a staged space,” Williams says. “The kitchen is the place where families gather, connect and make memories.

It is worth investing in this important space because the returns are far more than financial.”

Beck/Allen Cabinetry, 11585 Lackland Road, St. Louis, 314-677-6713, beckallencabinetry.com Stone Hall Cabinetry, 9155 Clayton Road, St. Louis, 314-873-1154, stonehallcabinetry.com

Design by Stone Hall Cabinetry Photos by Alise O’Brien

From Poland,

With Love

SIOSTRA, A POLISH POTTERY SHOP IN ST. CHARLES, SELLS DURABLE, ONE-OF-A-KIND POTTERY FOR YOUR HOME.

T

By Ashley Klein | Photos courtesy of Siostra

he most beloved pieces in a home always have a story.

A rich history is inherent in any authentic Polish pottery piece.

Classic Polish pottery has been made in the town of Boleslawiec, Poland – with few changes to the process and product – as early as the Middle Ages. But the pottery at Siostra, a Polish pottery shop on Historic St. Charles Main Street, brings another layer to the story’s allure. Owner Katheryne Morschl, though a small business owner by trade, is a storyteller at heart. Do yourself a favor, and listen in as she educates shoppers browsing the store and speaks with the ad-lib precision of a museum tour guide and the passion of a seasoned collector.

She did, after all, begin as a collector. She first caught the bug when her husband was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, with the Army from 1999 to 2002.

“All the military spouses had their houses filled with Polish pottery,” she says. “The Army set up bus trips for us to go next door to Poland to buy it. When I went over in 1999, the Berlin Wall had only been down for 10 years, so Poland was just barely crawling out of communism and reestablishing itself and its economy. The factories were pretty limited – I think there were only four or five of them at the time.”

Boleslawiec, home to the natural white clay deposits used to create the durable ceramics, has about a dozen artists’ guilds that make the pottery.

Each factory specializes in its own pottery shapes and painted patterns, but the colors remain the same so shoppers can mix and match between makers and

keep a cohesive look. It’s the mixing and matching, Morschl contends, that’s half the fun.

“There are thousands of different patterns available, so I find it odd when somebody picks just one pattern [for their home],” she says. “I order about 12 to 14 patterns at a time. Usually, about half of those are the fan favorites that always sell out. For the other half, I try to pick something new and make a rainbow of color; there’s always at least one green, one yellow, a red and a few blues.”

Fan-favorite patterns include “Sunburst,” which features small blue flowers dotted across a yellow background and blue on the rim of the dish; “California Poppy,” with a big orange poppy and green detailing; and “Garden Party,” which features more white space to offset a ring of blue and red flowers and offers an old-fashioned aesthetic.

Although most designs include a floral motif, Morschl always keeps some geometric patterns on the shelves for a modern alternative.

The range of options can be overwhelming for first-time buyers. To narrow it down, Morschl suggests thinking practically.

“I ask people if they’re bakers, or if they like to entertain, or if they’re really just looking for something simple for themselves,” she says. The 10-inch round baker with handles is her go-to recommendation: “It’s a good universal piece.

It’s great for everything: pies, pizza, casserole.

Sometimes, I just put a couple of chicken breasts in there with some sauce and throw that in the oven while I work on my sides.”

Another standby is Morschl’s favorite soup mug. Its big loop of a handle and 16-fluid-ounce capacity make it ideal for hot drinks, soups, stews and even ice cream.

Indeed, Polish pottery is multifunctional to the core. Authentic Polish pottery is dishwasher, microwave, freezer and oven-safe (but not for use on a stovetop). It’s cured with a durable smooth glaze, which makes it easy to disinfect and highly chip resistant, so using knives and metal silverware is fair game.

“They don’t stain, and they don’t fade,” Morschl says. “I’ve been using some of my pieces since 1999, and they’re still as shiny and glossy as the day I bought them. And I use them a lot.”

This longevity makes Polish pottery a keepsake – and a story – worth passing down for generations to come.

“Especially here in America, we’ve become so accustomed to a disposable economy, where everything you purchase is meant to be thrown away and rebought,” Morschl says. “That’s not really great for the sustainability of the Earth. Polish pottery is durable enough to last, so you can use it again and again and not have to worry about it breaking down like you do with plastics. I think it makes your food taste better.

And, of course, it’s gorgeous.”

Siostra, 330 S. Main St., St. Charles, 636-925-1480, siostrapolishpottery.com

44 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

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TO THE

O Solar POWER

By Drew Gieseke

FROM COSTS TO INSTALLATION, HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS RENEWABLE-ENERGY TECHNOLOGY.

S

olar power continues to rise in popularity.

According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, “the U.S. solar industry installed 6.1 gigawatts-direct current of capacity in the first quarter of 2023,” marking a nearly 50 percent increase from the same period the previous year.

Part of the reason for this increase is that solar panel systems are more affordable than ever, with prices ranging from as low as $5,000 to as high as $40,000 (though the average cost for a 6-kW system runs between $13,000 and $20,000, according to Forbes).

With an industry this booming, it’s no surprise that the St. Louis area is home to several solar panel companies that help homeowners find the right system for their home and goals, whether it be helping the environment or offsetting energy costs.

“During the long, sunny days of May through September, a homeowner [with a full solar panel system] can expect zero energy costs for their electricity bill,” says StraightUp Solar director of business development Eric Schneider. “Even in the fall and winter months, the sun is still producing solar energy to reduce the homeowner’s energy bill.”

This approach is more common than it may seem. Astrawatt Solar CEO and founder Keith Murphy says that his company’s target impact is 100 percent offset. In other words, once panels are installed, Astrawatt Solar customers should be able to get all the electricity needed to power their home from the sun – and can expect a typical return on investment after about 10 years. Federal tax credits can also help offset initial setup costs.

However, solar power does more than simply reduce energy bills.

46 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

One of the primary reasons this renewable energy source has seen wider adoption in the past several years is that people want to lower their carbon footprint. Earth just experienced its hottest summer on record, with the U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres proclaiming that “climate breakdown has begun.” And although installing solar panels on a residential home won’t necessarily reverse the impacts of climate change, it can certainly help move the needle.

“Putting solar panels on your roof is the single most beneficial change a homeowner can make to help the environment and our air quality,” Schneider says. “A solar PV system places a source of clean energy generation on your home and offsets the burning of fossil fuels in the regional utility grid.”

Schneider also adds that a hotter climate can cause more devastating storms, including tornadoes and powerful thunderstorms.

“A solar PV system, with battery storage, can provide energy independence and security for homeowners,” he says.

“In a storm outage, battery storage enables a home to use their own electricity without power from the utility grid.”

Customers might be surprised at the ease of the installation process. Schneider says his team usually finishes installation within two to three days, while Murphy estimates that the installation of solar panels typically takes about two days in a non-invasive process. Installers usually need access to the home through an attic space and wherever the main service panel is located. But otherwise, most of the work is performed outside.

Aesthetics are also a significant component and consideration for many buyers. The classic all-black look is designed to blend in or avoid drawing attention away from other parts of a family’s home.

“We use all-black solar panels and hide all conduit roof runs to ensure a clean look,” Murphy says. “We don't want to draw attention to the installation. It should look as though the solar panels were meant to be there.”

Between rising energy costs and efforts to curb carbon emissions, it’s clear that solar power is here to stay. It’s clean, renewable and can save money in the long run. That’s a win-win-win for pretty much everyone.

“Solar energy is the greatest investment in your home – and the most significant home improvement project that improves your home’s cash flow,” Schneider says.

Photo courtesy of Mark Holderbaugh

StraightUp Solar, straightupsolar.com Astrawatt Solar, astrawatt.solar

Photo courtesy of Cara Maurizi

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A 1930s

Dream

By Emily Standlee Photos by Anne Matheis

LADUENEWS.COM | ABODE | OCTOBER 2023 | 51

Liston Design Build turns a 90-year-old Ladue LISTON DESIGN BUILD house TURNS A 90-YEAR-OLD LADUE HOUSE INTO ONE COUPLE’S into one couple’ s idyllic IDYLLIC METRO AREA HOME. metro area home.

I

t’s a tale as old as time: Family meets house.

Family falls in love with house. Liston Design Build makes family’s dream come true.

When a New York-based couple moved back to Ladue to be closer to family and were drawn to a 6,000-square-foot stunner on Lay Road, it felt like happily ever after. “Everything about their new home excited them – location, curb appeal, beautiful architectural elements, updated bathrooms and even outdoor living,” LDB owner Jeanne Liston says. “But one thing was missing – an expansive, updated kitchen.”

Luckily, with nearly 40 years in the home remodeling industry, Liston Design Build – a business spanning three generations – is a prime example of what quality design can look like in the St. Louis area.

When taking on new projects, the company has a tried-and-true method that begins with what they call ‘discovery.’ Because remodeling a home involves intensive decision-making with multiple moving parts, examining the client’s concept – and whether it can translate into reality – is paramount for LDB. “We listen to your dreams and visions, and then we pair those ideas with our expertise,” Liston says. “We discuss project objectives, investment levels and existing conditions.” Homeowners can think of this first phase as the foundation for the rest of the project, which should be built and designed to uphold its quality. “After all, good design considers how clients will use and move through their home over time,” Liston says.

Because the Lay Road home was built in the 1930s, the clients wanted design features that could mirror this aesthetic. It was also important that the kitchen not only meet their cooking and entertaining needs but also be open, sophisticated and functional. “In keeping with a timeless, elegant design, we selected the classic color palette of white, black and charcoal, highlighted with brass finishes,” Liston says. “The black soapstone-like quartz island material grounds the space and guides your eye to the charcoal bar cabinetry wall and butler’s pantry hall.” Additional components like bright white cabinetry, leaded glass and glowing quartz countertops lend a cohesive, flowing ambiance to the space.

The kitchen’s “wow” factor, Liston explains, is its black and brass hood range, which serves as a backdrop to the island. Above the island hang honey-gold geometric pendant lights infused with more beveled glass; these complement the various golden-hued fixtures and cabinet hardware. As a thoughtful touch, LDB also built out a full-height, curving backsplash, which softens the overall design and mimics the glass found in both sets of cabinets. “It’s a beautiful space that is reflective of the home’s character and functional for day-to-day living,” Liston says.

LDB focuses on the client experience. Rather than adding stress to an already high-energy remodeling environment, the company aims to make its clients feel comfortable throughout the process. “Our goal is to find clients who are looking for a contractor with experience, stability and talent to create projects that are beautiful and functional, while also delivering a great customer experience,” Liston says. “Remodeling can be challenging, but our team provides guidance and communication in an industry that’s not [always] known for that.” The business prioritizes clients' needs in every way possible and often accompanies them to local showrooms and matches them with designers as a project unfolds.

For Liston, this intricate design process is the most rewarding part of any remodel. “As you delve into the reason, objective and vision for the remodel, you intimately begin to understand the client’s desired outcome,” she says. “Knowing that you’re improving their lifestyle is absolutely the best.”

She says she frequently receives joyful texts from past clients – the ultimate indication of success behind all the hard work. Limitations do exist – structural complications that come with working on a 90-year-old home like Lay Road, for instance – but these are met with strategy. “There are no homes without imperfection,” Liston says. “The challenge is to work with those restrictions to deliver a successful project in terms of design, function and beauty.”

Liston Design Build, 1106 1st Capitol Drive, St. Charles, 636-940-9417, listondesignbuild.com

In keeping with a timeless, elegant design, we selected the classic color palette of white, black and charcoal, highlighted with brass finishes.

– JEANNE LISTON

LADUENEWS.COM | ABODE | OCTOBER 2023 | 55

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A Rustic

By Hope Timmermann | Photos by Corey Hogrefe, CH Studios LLC

LADUENEWS.COM | ABODE | OCTOBER 2023 | 59

60 | OCTOBER 2023 | ABODE | LADUENEWS.COM

Explore The Iowa House, a warm and refined autumnal retreat.

D

ecorating with pumpkins, mums and colorful leaves can turn any home into a festive fall haven. However, some homes are just inherently autumnal – it’s in the warmth of their wood, the richness of their color palette and the cozy feeling you get when you first cross the threshold.

The Iowa House, designed and styled by C&M Interiors, is just that – rustic and warm with a delicate balance of rough and soft. Since 2016, C&M Interiors has helped its clients style, design and build homes with thoughtfulness, detail and refinement, and the Iowa House is no exception.

C&M Interiors was referred to help design a home being built near an Amish community in rural Iowa in 2020. The homeowners wanted their interior spaces to feel comfortable and make sense for their lifestyle of farming and outdoor activity. Principal and interior designer Maria Hogrefe and co-owner and principal designer Channing Krichevsky worked hand in hand with their clients to customize a space that was refined, tailored and rustic all at once.

Set against a backdrop of natural beauty, the home couldn’t feel too modern or sleek, and it couldn’t overpower its environment.

“Our vision revolved around the idea of bringing the color palette of the outdoors into the home,” Hogrefe says. “Being surrounded by a beautiful landscape and farmland, we were inspired by many of these elements.”

Hogrefe and Krichevsky focused on adding neutral colors and plenty of texture throughout the home to bring the natural beauty indoors.

– Maria Hogrefe “We loved working on the living room, which is the first room you see upon entering the home,” Hogrefe says. The cathedral ceiling of warm wood beams catches the eye upon first entry and gives the living room a grand appearance. The gray and brown tones of the stone fireplace play nicely with the cooler colors in the adjacent wood-paneled cabinets and offer a bit of tonal variety to the space.

Our vision revolved around the idea of bringing the color palette of the outdoors into the home.

“The living room feels very open, and the furnishings, textiles, area rug and light fixtures complement and give true character and life to the home,” Hogrefe says. The living room opens to a kitchen fit for a chef with cabinets that match those in the living room, a striking copper vent hood above the stove and deep gray countertops. Even the Fisher & Paykel oven and range soothe the eye with a luxurious chocolate color.

One can see the natural and rustic elements throughout the home, but it’s not all on one note. In the hallway bathroom, Hogrefe and Krichevsky replicated the warm bronze metals and timeless white subway tiles found in the kitchen and primary bathroom and paired them with a vibrant green-and-yellow wallpaper for a refined pop of color. The primary bathroom’s vanity was painted a deep indigo to complement the slate tile floors and shower walls. In these smaller spaces in the home, the team explored more modern elements that harmonized with the main rustic themes throughout the rest of the house.

“It takes a classically trained eye to be able to marry a variety of styles together,” Hogrefe says.

The overall feeling of warmth throughout the Iowa House wasn’t achieved solely through small details like cabinet finials or rich leathers

It takes a classically trained eye to be able to marry a variety of styles together.

– Maria Hogrefe

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– it was built from the ground up. C&M Interiors worked with a local Amish millwork company, Yoder’s Indian Creek Furniture out of Milton, Iowa, on the wood elements in the home. Hardwood floors, custom wood stains and finishes, custom cabinetry and different wood species were incorporated throughout the home to create a look that truly exudes coziness. The primary bathroom boasts rich woodpaneled walls in which you can trace the tongue and groove of the wood. These details are unique and add a special charm to the home, Hogrefe says.

In fact, it seems that every inch of the Iowa House is packed with charm – and that’s on purpose.

“C&M Interiors leaves no surface untouched if my designers have anything to do with it,” Hogrefe says.

C&M Interiors, 937 Midland Blvd., St. Louis, 314-328-1923, candminteriors.com

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