Hello friends,
I have had my hickory bentwood rocking chair longer than I have had my husband.
My brother Tim and his late wife Beth gifted me the chair made in northern Michigan when I was just out of college. For 13 years, it sat in my friend’s basement along with our fragile wedding gifts when we moved abroad just after we got married.
When we moved back to the States, I had a happy reunion with my rocking chair and rocked my babies to sleep in it, my weary head resting on its smooth wood. It was my mom’s favorite seat in our family room and I can picture my kids scrambling onto her lap for a story or hug. It’s lived in three states, nine homes, and rocked four babies I nannied, plus my two grandchildren and countless houseguests. It’s been a porch rocker, living room seating, and a nursery staple.
She has been my sidekick for 40 years and I love her.
We furnish our homes with beautiful and practical pieces, sentimental curios, nostalgic knickknacks, and prized possessions. In this home issue, we bring you stories of lovely homes, designers with vision, and rooms that share a story and welcome guests.
I've always wanted a wall bed, very Jetsons and stealth. They're back! And, aside sleek built-ins. Both from Closets By Design. Who knew? (page 16)
Enjoy your home. And the people in it!
All my best,
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @BUCKHAVENCITYLIFESTYLE
Art by Suzy Parker @ParkerPrints_
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Aleks Kappett
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean O'Keefe, Summer Robinson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Catrina Maxwell | CatMax Photography, Jolie Loren
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Proverbs 3:5-6
business monthly
Lunch at Delbar, anyone?
Delbar’s recently opened Buckhead location is now serving lunch featuring limited favorites from the dinner menu along with four new sandwiches made on homemade sourdough pita – crafted to bring bold flavors to guests’ midday break. Try classic spreads like hummus & labneh, greens & grains including Sabzu Polo and Endive Citrus Salad, and meats like various kabobs, seabass and chinjeh. 3060 Peachtree Rd Suite R-160, Atlanta 404.738.9302 https://www.delbaratl.com/
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Doing Good in Destin
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) is hosting the 20th Anniversary Destin Charity Wine Auction, presented by the Jumonville Family scheduled for April 25-26. All funds raised at the annual auction benefit children in need in Northwest Florida through the Foundation’s 17 partner children’s charities. In 2024, DCWAF donated $3 million to charity following one of its most successful auctions to date. A limited number of patron packages are on sale now at dcwaf.org/tickets.
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Welcome, Ms Fisher
The Lovett School is thrilled to announce that after a comprehensive national search, Alisha Fisher has been named the Head of Middle School. Alisha brings more than 20 years of educational leadership and teaching experience to her role. A native of Washington, D.C., Alisha earned a Bachelor’s from Clark Atlanta University and a Master of Education from Kennesaw State University. Her commitment to fostering academic excellence, inclusivity, and student well-being has defined her leadership approach.
Belle Turner Lynch Preservation Award
John Beach presented the award to three Bunnen family members, Melissa Bunnen Jernigan, Belinda Bunnen Reusch, and Robb Bunnen, on behalf of Buckhead Heritage. The Bunnen family members worked with the Conservation Fund and the city of Atlanta to preserve their family home and 30 acres on Randell Mill Road for a new city park. The property is known as the Lucinda Bunnen estate after their high-profile photographer and arts activist mother.
The Pink Affair TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation will be hosting its 24th Annual Pink Affair on March 22 at the Georgia Aquarium. The event is the signature fundraising gala for TurningPoint and raises critical funding for the nonprofit's financial assistance program so that no patient is ever denied treatment due to inadequate insurance coverage or financial resources. The evening features silent and live auctions, seated dinner, live music, and dancing as well as a short program. ThePinkAffair.org
TIDY IS TRENDY
NEAT ORGANIZATION SOLUTIONS BEYOND THE BEDROOM CLOSET.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
Organizing is necessary and unavoidable and for some, impossible.
I spend hours tidying and reorganizing my bedroom closet each spring and the laundry room gets a makeover once a year before the kids come home from college (and again when they leave). I long for shelving in the garage dedicated to my outdoor gear, for cubbies in my office to hide my knitting and crafts, and a guest room that isn’t all bed and pillows.
Turning to the experts in custom organization and innovative designs for the home, Closets By Design, I found the options enticing and the one-on-one design services essential. The company, family owned and operated, provides help every step of the way with solutions for every room of the house, not just closets.
“At Closets by Design, we understand that every home is unique, which is why our design process is tailored specifically to your individual needs and preferences. From the moment you schedule your no-obligation consultation, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way,” says owner and operator, Stephanie Parmer.
Set an appointment online or by phone and a professional designer will come directly to your home bringing the showroom experience to your doorstep. “Together, you’ll collaborate to create a personalized design that maximizes your space and fits your budget. Once the perfect layout is established, your designer will coordinate the installation date, ensuring a seamless transition from vision to reality,” Stephanie explains.
On installation day, a highly trained installer will arrive with all the necessary materials to complete your project—typically in just one day. Dreamy!
Since its inception in 1982, Closets By Design has carved a niche as a trailblazer in home organization, and today one of their latest focuses has been on transforming garages into efficient spaces that reflect the needs and lifestyle of the homeowner. Think sleek cabinetry, versatile shelving systems, tools neatly organized on wall-mounted racks, sports gear tucked away in custom cabinets, and dedicated spaces for hobby supplies. The company offers garage flooring options too, durable and easy to maintain, giving your space a polished look.
Indoors, a standout trend is in home office design with the rise of custom furniture. These versatile pieces can be configured to fit any space, allowing you to create a customized workstation that adapts to your needs. Think vertical storage options like shelves and pegboards that utilize wall space effectively, as well as drawers that help you find what you need quickly along
with storage cubes and baskets for keeping supplies neatly tucked away while adding a decorative touch.
When we think of home design, laundry rooms often take a backseat. Yet, this hardworking area deserves just as much attention with custom cabinets in on-trend colors or finishes with ample workspace for sorting, folding, and ironing clothes. Countertops— made from durable materials like quartz or granite— that are both functional and appealing are paired with stylish backsplashes for a cohesive look that transforms your laundry area into a mini oasis of organization. Include pull-out hampers, dedicated areas for sorting clothes by color or fabric type, and a foldable ironing board that tucks away neatly when not in use,
My guest room is also my office and I am pining for a Murphy bed from Closets By Design. Their wallbeds are designed to fold up against the wall when not in use, with a user-friendly mechanism, engineered to be lightweight yet sturdy; while they support a standard mattress.
“We’re passionate about transforming overlooked spaces into beautiful, functional areas that you’ll enjoy using,” says Stephanie. “We offer a wide spectrum of finishing options, whether you prefer the warm, natural look of wood or the sleek, contemporary feel of laminate finishes. Each material is crafted for durability while providing an elegant aesthetic that can elevate any room.”
Her team understands every home has unique needs and styles, and they are passionate about providing tailored solutions that enhance both functionality and aesthetics, transforming your spaces into beautifully organized havens.
3165 Corners N Ct, Peachtree Corners 770.418.2112
Atlanta.ClosetsByDesign.com
Won't You Come In?
Bespoke entryways set the tone.
ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
With over 50 years of combined experience in custom doors and windows, the team at Clark Hall Doors & Windows have unmatched quality and expertise when it comes to iron doors. The artisan workers at Clark Hall Doors & Windows have honed their craft to create unique doors to reflect their client’s vision. Whether it’s a new construction or renovation, every Clark Hall door or window is carefully built with the highest standards to provide clients with a plethora of customization options. They pride themselves on being the best
option for bespoke doors that make a big impact on your home’s design. While their design studios are based in Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina, their white glove installation services and sales consultants are available for clients in Alpharetta, Buckhead, Marietta, Milton, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. At-home consultations in the Atlanta area can be booked from Monday through Saturday with an appointment.
“The customer here was looking to create a focal point at the entrance, maximizing the light coming into the foyer with minimal sightlines along with complementing the cedar, copper, and natural stone of the exterior,” says Jack Paton, general manager of Clark Hall Doors & Windows. “Each project we do is fully custom to the architect’s or homeowner’s desires. If you can dream it, we can build it.” Once the design is chosen, the options for glass are considered. “There are many options when choosing glass,” Paton says. “Typically customers are choosing between a clear insulated glass with a UV LoE protective layer. They can also choose from our textured options for more privacy.”
Why select Clark Hall for designing a bespoke front door? The front door of your home makes a statement and increases curb appeal. Why not make it personal and one-of-a-kind? According to Clark Hall Doors & Windows, they are known for being hand-perfected by a skilled artisan maker and uniform, smooth-to-touch finishes. Styles range from modern, traditional and ornate. Each custom door is individually crafted and designed to specification to turn your dream entryway into a reality. Iron doors are not only durable and attractive, but they take the security of your home to the next level. Every door is made specifically for your home, and goes through extensive detailing. Fully custom iron doors also increase the value of your home. According to Clark Hall’s website, realtors and remodeling experts
“Each project we do is fully custom to the architect’s or homeowner’s desires. If you can dream it, we can build it.”
show that upgrading the front entryway has one of the highest cost recoup percentages when compared to other home improvements.
With a combined passion for elevated design, Clark Hall Doors was launched in 2004 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Their family-focused and community-based team takes pride in working with clients from the first sketch to the final installation to bring their client’s visions to life and marry artistry, engineering, and craftsmanship. Showrooms are located in Charlotte, Raleigh, and now Atlanta, at 690 Miami Circle Suite 575.
ClarkHallDoors.com 980.575.1711
ORGANIC BEDDING UNVEILED, WITH ARIN SCHULTZ, CHIEF GROWTH OFFICER AT NATUREPEDIC.
Sleep Matters
ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
...here’s a pro tip not everyone knows: you need to break in a new mattress!
NATUREPEDIC WAS FOUNDED BY PASSIONATE SLEEPERS WHO WANTED THE ABSOLUTE SAFEST AND HEALTHIEST MATTRESS WITHOUT HAVING TO SACRIFICE COMFORT OR SUPPORT. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING SOMEONE WILL NOTICE WHEN STRETCHING OUT ON ONE OF YOUR MATTRESSES?
Honestly, we think you’ll be surprised by how comfortable you are! Many people seek out organic mattresses because they are motivated by the health and environmental benefits of a mattress that minimizes chemical exposure. However, our founder Barry Cik is famous for saying, “It’s like organic chocolate. If it doesn’t taste good, you’re not going to eat it!” It’s the same with a mattress – if it’s not comfy, you’re not sleeping on it.
We’ve found that organic materials are cozier, more breathable and higher quality, making for a more comfortable mattress.
That said, here’s a pro tip not everyone knows: you need to break in a new mattress! It takes a few weeks at least for the mattress to settle and adapt to your form. That’s why we offer a 100-night, riskfree sleep trial.
OUR BEDROOM, AND MATTRESS IN PARTICULAR, SHOULD BE A SAFE HAVEN FOR REJUVENATION, NOT ANOTHER SOURCE OF CHEMICALS. CONVENTIONAL MATTRESSES ARE NOTORIOUS FOR RELEASING CHEMICALS LIKE VOCS AND ALDEHYDES. TELL US ABOUT THE FABRIC AND CONSTRUCTION OF YOUR MATTRESSES.
We handcraft our mattresses in our Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified factory, using only materials that are made by or mindful of Mother Nature. The cotton fill is sustainably sourced from GOTS-certified cotton farms in Texas. The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) and GOTS-certified organic wool are sourced from organic farms that prioritize animal welfare and sustainable land management. We also use GOLS- and FSC®- certified latex, derived from the sap of rubber trees growing in responsibly managed forests.
Our EOS and Halcyon organic mattress collections also offer customization. With an innovative, modular design, these customizable mattresses allow you to select the comfort materials that best suit your needs (and change them out over time!).
YOU OFFER SEPARATE LINES OF BEDS, BEDDING AND FRAMES FOR BABIES, KIDS AND ADULTS. WE LOVE THAT YOU OFFER CRIB AND KIDS MATTRESSES THAT ARE CERTIFIED VEGAN WITH A WATERPROOF LAYER MADE FROM NON-GMO SUGARCANE, AND THAT ALL OF YOUR MATTRESSES CONTAIN NO GLUES, ADHESIVES, OR POLYURETHANE FOAM. THE 100-NIGHT TRIAL PERIOD IS DREAMY, TOO! HOW DO ORDERING AND DELIVERY WORK?
We actually have Certified Vegan options available across all categories – even our PETA-Approved Vegan dog bed!
We can help fit you for your perfect mattress based on your sleep position, firmness preference, and other lifestyle factors. You can choose to have it shipped ground directly to your home or have our white glove service come in and set up your mattress in your home.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE BUCKHEAD FOR YOUR BUSINESS HOME?
We’ve spent the past few years searching for the ideal store location in Atlanta and the Buckhead area has consistently stood out. After analyzing our reports and tracking mattress inquiries by region, we noticed a significant demand in Atlanta, especially within Buckhead. As an organic company, Buckhead’s commitment to environmental stewardship with organizations like Livable Buckhead and its dedication to green spaces really resonated too. As we continue to expand our retail presence, we’re eager to be part of vibrant, thriving, and eco-conscious communities, and Buckhead truly aligns with that vision.
3167 Peachtree Road NE, Suite D-1 Atlanta 404.549.2012
Naturepedic.com/Atlanta
You Must Meet Mary!
A young survivor's story of hope and resilience
On February 6, 2015, at just eight years of age, a very young Mary Tipton Carter was diagnosed with ovarian dysgerminoma, a rare, malignant ovarian tumor that usually affects young women; today she is cancer-free. Mary Tipton is a senior at St. Pius X Catholic High School and hopes to major in marketing in college. She is involved in track and field as a high jumper who also enjoys playing guitar and singing. “The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance has been with me every step of the way since my being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in grade two,” says Mary Tipton, “they have given me a platform to share my journey with other women and I am committed to continuing to help them raise awareness.” Mary Tipton loves to spend time with her parents, two little sisters, dog, and best friends; enjoying life and all that it offers to the fullest.
The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance (GOCA) organizes impactful events to raise awareness, support survivors, and fund educational initiatives in the fight against ovarian cancer. The annual Teal Trot 5K on September 20th at Chastain Park, unites families, friends, and advocates to honor their survivor community while remembering those who have passed from the disease. The Teal to Heal Fashion Show, November 13th at Lenox Square Mall, celebrates survivors as well as families and caregivers. Both events are designed to
ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY JOLIE LOREN PHOTOGRAPHY
highlight our survivors’ stories and to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.
GOCA’s flagship fundraiser, the Shaken, Not Stirred Gala , now in its 13th year, is scheduled for March 8th at the Georgia Aquarium. This elegant fundraising evening features The Celebrity All Star Band, DJ Angelo Ferraro, incredible silent and live auctions, and, most importantly, moving survivor stories offering insight into their personal ovarian cancer journey. Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI) – Atlanta Chapter, in celebration of its tenth anniversary of partnership with GOCA, will curate an exceptional menu in honor of Dame Barbara Petit, showcasing their generosity and commitment to the cause. Proceeds from the gala support GOCA’s critical education and awareness initiatives.
In addition to these signature events, GOCA hosts a variety of outreach programs, survivor luncheons, and educational events. These include health fairs, corporate seminars, and community
initiatives designed to spread awareness of ovarian cancer’s signs and symptoms, leading to earlier detection and better outcomes.
GOCA’s events not only raise funds but foster a sense of community among survivors and advocates. Participants are empowered to take action, share their knowledge, and support the organization’s mission of saving lives and improving the quality of life for women affected by this disease. Through these efforts, GOCA continues to make a meaningful impact across Georgia, championing awareness and providing vital resources for these courageous women.
Sponsoring and supporting GOCA is a meaningful way to make a difference in the fight against ovarian cancer. Corporate and individual
sponsorships help fund vital programs, including community education, early detection initiatives, and survivor support services. Sponsors gain valuable exposure through GOCA’s signature events, while demonstrating a commitment to women’s health. By partnering with GOCA, supporters empower the organization to raise awareness, save lives through early detection, and improve the quality of life for ovarian cancer survivors across Georgia.
For more information about GOCA, please visit: GaOvarianCancer.org
Teal Sisters; fighting for education and awareness!
Maximizing underutilized spaces to create home offices is another trend.
A small area off the kitchen was converted into a cozy office space.
Pull - out spice drawers continue to be a popular choice. It’s a great way to keep essentials within reach but hidden when not in use
Light cabinets, a contrasting island with seating for five, a white and brushed brass vent hood, luxury appliances, and gold accents galore.
SPARKLE, Shine, and SMART DESIGN
If you constantly find yourself scrolling through countless home design and renovation Instagram posts, then it could be a sign that it’s time for you to give your kitchen or bathroom a makeover. Not the whole house, but probably two of the most important rooms in any home; this alone, could elevate your home from simply a traditional house to a traditional home with a modern twist complemented by luxury elements.
Schuon Kitchen & Baths has entered the chat.
Schuon Kitchen & Baths has provided Atlanta homeowners with exceptional kitchen and bath design solutions for over 30 years. Hans Schuon founded the company in 1993, committed to continuing his family’s legacy as a fourth-generation cabinet maker. Whether you’re seeking a collaborative experience where your input shapes the redesign of your living space, or you prefer a design team that expertly handles the big, small, and tiny details in between, the Schuon team is on board.
Their designers’ secret weapon is attention to detail. The company’s motto is, “kitchens and baths done right the first time.” The design team takes pride in redesigning living spaces and helping homeowners reimagine the flow and layout of their homes to maximize efficiency and comfort.
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ARTICLE BY SUMMER J. ROBINSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATRINA MAXWELL | CATMAX PHOTOGRAPHY
Dedicated coffee areas and beverage stations are popular. Floating shelves are good for displaying attractive items, while lower cabinets provide storage.
In the kitchen, add a wine bottle shelf to show off your collection or add pullout waste baskets to your cabinets. Smart ideas that can make your life easier and more fun. Pull up sophisticated bar stools to the family hub, the kitchen island, and your kitchen feels like a chic, multifunctional space where cooking, socializing, and entertaining all happen seamlessly. It transforms from just a place for meal prep into a central hub for family and friends to gather, chat, and enjoy the atmosphere. Schuon Kitchen & Baths can help choose vent hoods, workstation sinks, and hardware.
Their expertise covers stainless steel kitchen appliances and steam ovens to redesigning showers or bathroom flooring, mudrooms, and home offices.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Schuon is expanding their design team to assist more homeowners. “We also recently finished updating our showroom with new vignettes to showcase newer cabinet options, countertops, backsplashes, hardware, and more,” says Lori Tilt Koepka, Marketing Director. “ Our goal is to continue offering a combination of outstanding design services, utilizing high quality materials, and providing installation and construction services for our valued clients.”
As a fourth-generation cabinet maker, Hans Schuon started his company in 1993 to carry on his family’s legacy. Their 30-plus-year reputation is one of creating high-quality kitchens and baths with a commitment to old-world craftsmanship.
280 S Atlanta St Suite 200, Roswell 770.643.9000
SKBI.com
For the kitchen: electrical/USB connections and storage nooks, vent hoods in metal and wood, quartzite counters with full seamless quartzite backsplash. For the laundry room: bigger rooms with dog washing stations.
For the mudroom: mail drop, key drop, charging station, benches, and coat hooks.
front loading washers and dryers with a platform counter and extra cabinets are popular.
MARCH 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 15TH
10th Annual St. Patrick’s Day 5k race/run
933 Peachtree Street Northeast
Run or walk before one of the country’s oldest St. Patrick’s Parades. To register and get more information, please visit RunSignUp.com
MARCH 27TH
Speaker Series: Danielle Meunier, Georgia Trust
For Historic Preservation Cathedral of Saint Philip Gould Room | 7:00 PM
Danielle will discuss The Georgia Trust’s New Advocacy Toolkit: Help Save Historic Sites Important to You! Whether you’re passionate about protecting a local landmark or want to safeguard the character of your community, their Advocacy Toolkit is your go-to resource.
MARCH 28TH AND 29TH
Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival
3493 Ashford Dunwoody Rd.
This free event is headlined by Boyz II Men and O.A.R. Enjoy live music, a classic car show, an artist market, and food trucks. The Kidz Zone offers family-friendly fun, and the entire festival is pet-friendly, so bring your furry friends along. Celebrate spring with great tunes, delicious food, and exciting activities for all ages! For more information visit BrookhavenGA.gov/festival
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PHOTO BY TIM WALKER
Your home deserves window treatments as unique as your style. Our expert design consultants offer personalized guidance to craft solutions that complement your vision. Schedule your consultation today and discover the art of luxurious living.
