Premier General Contractors Since 1986
Beyond providing quality workmanship and comprehensive design/build services, we strive to build a relationship of mutual trust and confidence with each of our clients’ large and small. We accomplish this by putting your priorities first and conducting ourselves with integrity in every aspect of our business.
Letter from the Publisher
March is here, bringing a season of renewal, fresh starts, and the comforts of home. This month, we’re celebrating all the ways we create, nurture, and elevate the spaces we call our own.
If you’re looking to refresh your space, we spoke with JoAnna Bohler of Bird and Branch Furniture about four essential pieces that instantly elevate any room. A well-chosen piece of furniture can transform a space, making it feel warm, welcoming, and truly yours.
A peaceful home starts with organization, and our feature The Joy of Tidying offers practical tips for getting started and staying motivated. Whether you’re tackling a full spring refresh or just looking for small ways to bring order to your space, you’ll find plenty of inspiration.
Speaking of creating a calming environment, our houseplant feature explores how greenery isn’t just a decorative touch—it’s a natural stress reliever. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, we have ideas to help you incorporate plants into your home effortlessly.
From decluttering to decorating, this issue is all about making your home a place where you feel comfortable, happy, and at peace. We hope you find ideas and inspiration to make your space feel even more like you
JANA MORRIS, PUBLISHER @EVANS.LIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Daniel Morris
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Allison Swan, Bailey Hall, Kimber Patterson, Sean O’Keefe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
JoAnna Bohler, Nate Sheets
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 Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
business monthly
ROUNDUP
Augusta Area Newcomers Club Supports RISE Augusta
For 50 years, the Augusta Area Newcomers Club has helped residents connect and give back. This year, they’re supporting RISE Augusta, which provides resources to help children succeed. Their annual spring fundraiser in March will bring the community together to support this cause. “We’re honored to support RISE Augusta’s mission,” says Susan Salisbury, past president. To learn more or get involved, visit www.augustanewcomers.net or contact Susan Salisbury at 317-847-7216.
Dive Into Opportunity at Bubbles or Not!
Join Bubbles or Not on Saturday, March 8, from 6-9 PM for Quarterly PADI Pro Night! Whether you’re an experienced diver or just curious about going pro, this is a great chance to meet the Bubbles or Not team, connect with local divers, and chat with PADI professionals. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the next steps in your diving journey. RSVP today to secure your spot by calling 706.901.5045!
The Evans Market Returns for Spring
Mark your calendars! The Evans Market returns on March 15th for its spring season, running every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM at 1005 Market Street. Shop fresh produce, handmade goods, and local treats while supporting small businesses. Don’t miss this vibrant community event!
HOUSEPLANTSThe Perfect Roommate
AN INDOOR GARDEN SANCTUARY
The ubiquitous houseplant has long been a cautious curiosity for many. Comments such as “I don’t have a green thumb,” or “I can’t keep anything alive,” have echoed through the rooms and hallways of almost every home in America. Well, it’s time to dispel all the mistruths about whether houseplants are beneficial and to lay the foundation for a little oasis of green happiness in the corner of every home!
By the way, you don’t really need a green thumb as there are plenty of hard-to-kill houseplants that can survive any level of neglect! And remember not only do houseplants look pretty, they also decrease stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and bring a sense of joy and relaxation to every room.
ARTICLE BY SEAN
Houseplants make us feel better about ourselves in many ways because they allow us to care for them and we reap the rewards of that love. No one is alone when you have a houseplant, as they are our forever listeners. Yes, some people actually do talk with their houseplants all day long! There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Aside from reducing indoor air pollutants and increasing humidity in the
home, house plants have been shown to reduce mental fatigue, accelerate the healing process, as well as improve productivity and focus.
Pothos, spider plants, lady palms, yucca, and succulents are so pretty and easy to grow. It is no wonder that we have seen a revival of indoor gardening trends. Instagram is teeming with photos of incredible indoor “living green” vignettes that show us all how clever we can be when decorating with house plants! All you
There are many sciencebased benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment.
really need is to a pick a place in the home that has the best light and pick your plants.
Think outside of the box when it comes to decorating with houseplants. Look for underused spaces. Use mixed and matched pots of different sizes and shapes. Turn a shelf into a plant display. Go vertical with some hanging plants or an antique ladder. You can even group some of your favorite plants together into a single large decorative pot.
Signature large plant displays anchor the most well-designed rooms in America and it’s all there for us to look at, learn from, and bring into our own home. Whether combined into a single large decorative pot or clustered together in a corner, always remember the key to any house plant décor is to have a thriller, a tall plant usually with a strong color and form; filler plants that literally will fill the pot covering all the soil; and a spiller plant that trails over the edge
of the pot. Try any combination of your favorite plants or a tried and true combination of a fiddle-leaf fig, a prayer plant, and a string of pearls.
No matter how you look at it, houseplants improve our lives in many ways. Indoor gardens provide us an alternative way to commune with nature and to reconnect with the living world. We all benefit from the additional life that houseplants bring into our homes. In this crazy world of ours, wouldn’t be it nice to return home to your own personal indoor greenspace. Happy gardening!
CREATE A STUNNING HOME WITH THESE MUST-HAVE PIECES F O U R F U R N I T U R E
E L E V A T E A R O O M
JoAnna Bohler, owner of Bird and Branch Furniture and Decor, shares her expertise with us on the top four must-have pieces to keep your home stylish. Bird and Branch is a family-owned furniture store that offers curated, practical, and stylish pieces made with the highest quality materials in the country. Whether you’re looking for statement pieces or functional elegance, their selection is designed to elevate any space.
Bird and Branch Furniture and Decor is located at 1494 Washington Road in Thomson. Visit their website at BirdandBranchFurniture.com or call the store at 706.361.0900.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOANNA BOHLER
CONSOLES UPHOLSTERED BEDS
“Consoles are a fantastic way to enhance any room’s design! Their versatility allows them to fit seamlessly into entryways, living spaces, or dining rooms while adding a touch of sophistication. A well-placed console table can serve as a stylish focal point, whether topped with decor or left minimalist for a clean look. If you’re looking for the perfect piece, go bold! Our favorite is the Mimi console—crafted from reclaimed wood with classic lines, it’s a timeless staple that effortlessly elevates any space. Whether used for storage, display, or as an accent, a console is a simple yet impactful way to transform a room.”
“An upholstered bed is an instant way to bring a sense of luxury to your bedroom. The plush, inviting feel adds warmth and comfort, making your bedroom a true retreat. The softness of an upholstered frame creates a cozy ambiance, reminiscent of a high-end hotel suite. Whether in a neutral linen or a bold velvet, these beds offer both elegance and comfort. Our customer favorite is The Cabalynn, a perfect blend of classic and modern styles. Its tailored design and plush fabric make it a stunning centerpiece. An upholstered bed doesn’t just add beauty—it enhances the overall feel of your bedroom, making it a sanctuary.”
LEATHER FURNITURE LIGHTING
“Leather furniture is a timeless way to bring richness and warmth to any space. With its durability and natural charm, it only gets better with age. Deep, rich tones and supple textures create a sophisticated ambiance while maintaining comfort. When selecting leather furniture, opt for pieces that balance structure with relaxation. A current favorite is a slipcovered leather sofa—it blends the easy, relaxed feel of slipcovers with the classic appeal of leather, making it a perfect anchor for your living room. Leather pieces can act as statement furniture, tying a room together with effortless elegance and functionality.”
“Though not furniture, lighting is one of the most crucial design elements in a home. It has the power to transform a space, making it feel warm and inviting. Soft, layered lighting instantly elevates a room’s ambiance and can be achieved affordably. Floor lamps, table lamps, sconces, and chandeliers all play a role in creating a balanced, well-lit environment. One important detail to consider is bulb temperature— choosing a 2700K bulb ensures a warm, cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a statement chandelier or subtle accent lighting, the right lighting choices make all the difference in achieving a stylish, polished space.”
The Joy of Tidying
ARTICLE BY KIMBER PATTERSON
HOW TO GET STARTED AND STAY MOTIVATED
Call it spring cleaning or IG envy, but this is the time of year I want everything – and I mean EVERYTHING –organized in my kitchen and closets. While I’m pretty good at maintaining an already-tidied space, tackling the not-so-tidy closet is where I need help. Heather Bifulco of TidyHomes came to the rescue with some great advice on getting started.
“My biggest suggestion is that you start small,” said Heather. “Don’t aim to tackle your pantry or closet in one organizing session. Our clients really struggle with the edit phase of the organization, but by the end they completely loosen up and start to have fun. For example, start under the kitchen sink. Lots of wins to be had there!”
Great tip. Now I had a plan of attack.
Next up? Creating categories. Organizing a space means taking out EVERYTHING and categorizing. Once that’s done, Heather always thoroughly cleans to inspire the flow of great ideas and have a fresh slate. Consider everything from dusting the baseboards to replacing light fixtures to adding a coat of paint to change up and freshen the new look.
rid your home of things that don’t work, things you have a better version of, things you never use and things that no longer make you happy,” says Heather. The key word here is ‘things.’ “Whether it’s an old umbrella or a new pair of rain boots,” she said, “the ask is the same.” Deep breath. That green hat I’ve loved forever? Keep. Three versions of the same jacket? Donate. The pile of single gloves? Toss. Once I got going, it became easier and faster to make those decisions.
Once you can actually see everything you’re keeping, you want what you use most often within arm’s reach. Seasonal items can go on higher or lower shelves. The sweet spot of shelving is dedicated to what I need to grab daily. Heather found beautiful baskets and bins that make me happy just to look at them. “Finding containers you love will provide so much motivation toward completing an organization project,” she said.
Now for the fun (and sometimes hard) part: touching every item in the category piles and asking myself whether something actually serves a purpose. “This is the time to
The whole goal at the end of organizing is to have no clutter. That’s right, this isn’t an attempt to harness clutter, but to eliminate it entirely. That being said, some of us live with little people who contribute to clutter every day. Heather’s advice on that subject turned out to be life-changing. She suggests creating ONE drop zone, not several.
“My biggest suggestion is that you start small. Don’t aim to tackle your pantry or closet in one organizing session.”
Finally she revealed her most important tip.
“There are no exceptions to this,” she admits. “Labeling is the key to maintenance and to eliminating the pain of not being able to find something. We have so many beautiful options for labeling now that it shouldn’t even be a question. Label. Always label.”
Great advice from the top of my closet to the bottom. This is why I’ve already scheduled Heather to help me organize the entryway and kitchen! @tidystylehome
BOBBY & MADERA
INNOVATION MEETS
ARTISTRY
Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.
According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.
“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner. I also firmly believe that when
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS
THE HEART OF THE HOME
designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”
Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.
Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.
“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting
compartments and advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”
Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.
“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”
Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.
“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.
MARCH 7TH
The Mason Jars Live at StillWater
StillWater Taproom
Get ready for a night of great music with local band The Mason Jars! Catch them live at StillWater Taproom on Friday, March 7th at 9 PM. Enjoy their vibrant tunes, great atmosphere, and good company.
MARCH 15TH
Run the Runway 5k and Kids Fun Run
Augusta Regional Airport
It's time for the 4th annual Run the Runway 5k and Kids Fun Run at Augusta Regional Airport! This is your chance to run on an actual airport runway where airplanes take off and land! Whether you're a seasoned runner or looking for a fun family activity, this race is for you! For more information and to register, visit flyags.com.
MARCH 16TH
Movies at the Miller: Beauty and the Beast
Miller Theater
Bring your family for a free showing of Beauty and the Beast at the Miller Theater! Admission is free but you will need a ticket to enter. Tickets are available at the Miller Theater box office. Movie starts at 2pm.
MARCH 22ND
Back to the 90s - Ryan Abel & Friends
Miller Theater
Blade on down to the Miller Theater and go back to the '90s with Ryan Abel & Friends! Get ready for a super rad night of your favorite throwback music from bands like Gin Blossoms, Alan Jackson, Sixpence None the Richer, Counting Crows, Shania Twain, R.E.M, Third Eye Blind, Jeff Buckley, and more! All proceeds benefit the Junior League of Augusta. To purchase tickets, visit MillerTheaterAugusta.com.
MARCH 28TH - 29TH
First Annual Cultural Festival
Evans Towne Center Park
Celebrate cultures from around the world at Columbia County’s first-ever Cultural Festival! Enjoy cultural booths, live performances, traditional art, fashion, crafts, and delicious food. Experience a vibrant showcase of global traditions on March 28th & 29th at Evans Towne Center Park. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to explore and celebrate diversity!
MARCH 29TH
NARNIA: the Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe
Columbia County Performing Arts Center
The Augusta Ballet presents their 39th performance of NARNIA: the Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe at the Columbia County Performing Arts Center. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit TheCenterOfCC.com
