The GLC continues to advance its role in the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, and its industry segment, with an ideal balance of sportiness and elegance. Its body is wind-carved yet muscle-toned, with a long hood, confident stance, and a high degree of aerodynamic refinement. The Star-centered grille is delicately outlined in chrome, while the LED lighting, side windows and flared fenders all flow into a shape that’s sensual yet spacious. Browse available inventory and take a testdrive at Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City South.
Letter from the Editor
I’ve lived in the same house for 17 years, raising my four children in a neighborhood filled with families who genuinely care for one another. Over the years, our neighborhood friends have become like family, and we’ve watched each other’s kids grow through the different stages of life as they transitioned from elementary school to middle school to high school, and even for some into college and beyond. There’s something incredibly special about the bond that transcends friendship when you live life alongside others, especially as families grow up together. We rally around each other, offering unwavering support and taking an active interest in each other’s lives.
We’ve cheered each other’s kids on at sporting events and activities. As our kids entered middle school, we navigated the awkwardness of those years together— whether it was helping them deal with the desire to fit in, tryouts for competitive teams, or experiencing their first crushes. When high school came, we all nervously watched our kids gain more independence, driving for the first time, and stepping into new freedoms.Our kids didn’t necessarily all hang out together, but it has never mattered. The love and support among us has never wavered.
It’s hard to believe that all those years ago, when we nervously dropped our kids off for their first day of kindergarten, we would still be walking through life’s big moments together many years later. We’ve celebrated big milestones with each other— career changes, promotions and moving. We’ve also supported each other through heartbreaks, layoffs, sicknesses and the sorrow of losing parents. We’ve been there for one another as our kids left for college, and as we adjusted to new chapters in our own lives.
I never would have imagined the beauty life had for me when I chose this house so many years ago. Even though some of us have moved to different neighborhoods, the bond remains unchanged. We’re in this for the long haul, ready for whatever the next stage of life brings. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to raise my family, and I feel so incredibly blessed to have a neighborhood that truly feels like home. I know I am not alone in my sentiments. Whoever your village is that surrounds you or perhaps who has come and gone but was instrumental during a period of your life when you needed it, let’s cherish those who have made our community a home.
1—7: Catholic Charities Foundation of Northeast Kansas hosted its 51st Annual Snow Ball on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at the Overland Park Convention Center. Johnson County residents, Doug and Kara Ciocca and Chris and Angie Dierks, were co-presidents for the black-tie event that featured a formal sit-down dinner, dancing to The Crossroad Sound and a guest appearance from Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. This year’s celebration raised over $5.3 million in benefit of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas ministries. All funds will provide critical relief, recovery and renewal to families of all faiths.
Kara Kersten Design celebrates 15 years
KKD celebrates their 15th year in business with new updated branding, a fresh new website, and by collecting gently used sports equipment for local elementary students in need. KKD is an interior architectural design studio that bridges the gap between interior design and construction. They create deeply personal, highly customized interiors that let you live your best, most authentic life. To donate: contact infokaraerstendesign@gmail.com
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At the Tee 2025
Golfer registration is now open for one of the Leawood Chamber’s most anticipated events of the year. This event sells out fast, and this year we’ve expanded to 120 golfer spots—so don’t wait to secure your place. Date: Wednesday, July 16. Location: Ironhorse Golf Club. Time: Pre-play brunch begins at 11am; shotgun start at 12pm
Window jewelry!
How you see the world outside is enhanced with Budget Blinds.
ARTICLE BY JUDY SPAAR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Privacy, light, heat, cold and aesthetics are the key reasons to cover your windows. Budget Blinds of Overland Park, Lee's Summit and Cass County are a three-generation owned family business that is here to help you no matter the reason.
Courtney Stoddard Laufketter and her sister Taylor Kistler have been working in this industry since 2002.
Since their inception, they have emerged as an industry leader with sustainable growth as the years have passed. Their strong family and community values, paired with their caring, real desire to please customers, have worked like a charm. They also give back to the community.
This team lives, works and plays in their community and they are ready to help you make your home or office a place you want to spend your time. Their top-notch design consultants and highly trained installers make the entire process as easy and fun as possible.
Courtney explained, “Our process is simple; we start with collecting information about the project and make an in home, or office, consultation. The design consultant then comes to your home or business and brings samples and photos to help design your perfect window covering. We will
measure and quote on the spot with a wide variety of products and options. After the initial visit we will then be in contact throughout the shipping process and will set up an installation appointment with one of our trained installers. Our products come with our five-year no questions asked warranty and oneyear service warranty. We stand behind our product and always strive to be the most knowledgeable team with our offerings.”
This featured job is located in Mission Ranch, not far from their showroom. It was a dream project from start to finish and produced these breathtaking images. Alison wanted sleek simplicity with a hint of drama for her windows and Taylor accomplished that with these highly texture black fabric roller shades. The shades are from their private label Signature Series which include a variety of treatment options. They are controlled by a mixture of featherlite, cordless and Smart Home Collection Motorization.
Allison Pierce, the homeowner, is quite pleased with her new window treatments that complete her newly built home.
“I reached out to Budget Blinds as we were nearing the end of our new home build. There were lots of windows and I had used them in the previous home we built. I'm pretty particular about window treatments, because I loved the windows we chose, and wanted them to stay a focal point of the room,” she expressed. “I want all the natural light, so anything that would block or detract from the windows themselves wouldn’t work. Essentially, I wanted them to be able to be invisible during the day. The window treatments do an amazing job of adding to that
“Our process is simple; we start with collecting information about the project and make an in home, or office, consultation.”
contrast or even completely disappearing during the day and letting the windows shine and natural light in. Then at night when pulled down, they bring in beautiful contrasting color to the space. I just love the warmth and sophistication they add,” she smiled.
She worked closely with Taylor and initially wanted the exact style and color of her last home, but they were not made any more. Taylor showed her what was closest and had more suggestions, including that switch from white to black. Although uncertain, Allison trusted her that it would look amazing.
“These shades come in black-out and a more sheer option, as well as automated and self-pull. We have all the versions throughout our home. They were even able to make three small ones for our kids’ loft,” she continued. “I truly could not be happier with the result - it was the finishing touch our home needed.”
Visit budgetblinds.com for more information.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS
WHERE INNOVATION MEETS ARTISTRY
With McCroskey Interiors
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 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.
“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.”
“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.
McCroskey Interiors offers unparalleled insight into designing kitchens that balance beauty and functionality. Founded by Laura McCroskey, the firm specializes in creating fresh, livable spaces tailored to clients both locally in Kansas City and also across the country.
Growing up surrounded by art, McCroskey developed an appreciation for beauty’s transformative power. Her eclectic style is shaped by international travel, classical European design, and a love of cooking. These influences converge in her designs, which prioritize both elegance and practicality.
“At McCroskey Interiors, we’re focused on making every square inch of the kitchen not just useful, but beautiful. We work closely with clients to ensure their kitchens not only look stunning but also enhance their daily lives.”
Whether you’re renovating an existing kitchen or starting from scratch, their expertise ensures a result that’s both timeless and personal. For more information, visit mccroskeyinteriors.com.
GET THE LOOK
at Blackbird Collection
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEC WALSWORTH
Blackbird Collection is a sustainable lifestyle brand that encourages you to embrace a slower pace and enjoy a more meaningful shopping experience, curated with purpose-driven brands. They offer a range of clothing for women, men, and children, all from innovative and forward-thinking labels. At Blackbird, looking stylish doesn’t mean harming the planet. They prioritize timeless, classic styles over fleeting trends. Vintage sourcing and restoration are key to their approach, ensuring homes are filled with beautiful, thoughtful pieces. Local artisan Matt Castilleja creates custom furniture in small batches for clients worldwide, and Blackbird Collection proudly serves as his Kansas City showroom. Unique rugs by Soufiane Zarib, crafted with natural materials by families in the Atlas Mountains, not only add warmth to our homes but also support the preservation of their traditional way of life. Blackbird Collection is passionate about bringing global inspiration to the homes and wardrobes of their customers.
Visit blackbirdcollection.com/
Coqui Coqui Yucatan Peninsula Collection, Tabaco
Tekla Poplin Long-Sleeved Shirt in Needle Stripes
Aysun Ay Sculptural White Ceramic Table Lamp
Made to be remembered. The
Sza Sza Extravaganza is a halter-neck kaftan made of viscose-blend crepe cady, fully trimmed with almost 8 meters of airy ostrich feathers. This lightweight piece is finished with a choker-style necklace adorned with soft tassels. Model Amy Appleton Dreyer
On Left: Shoes Anny Nord; Dress Taller Marmo Extravaganza Kaftan In Pergamena
Top Right: Custom Ottomans by Blackbird Collection
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
CROWLEY AND BASSETT ARE A MATCH MADE IN FURNITURE HEAVEN.
“For seven decades, we have built our reputation on offering high-quality products paired with outstanding service.”
Crowley Furniture & Mattress has been offering Bassett furnishings for over 50 years, so in 2017, it was a natural progression to open a standalone Bassett store in Overland Park, solidifying their partnership.
“Crowley Furniture was founded in 1954 in Excelsior Springs by Charles and Marilyn Crowley. Since then, it has remained a family-owned and operated business,” noted Katie Crowley, third generation family member. “For seven decades, we have built our reputation on offering high-quality products paired with outstanding service.”
Bassett Kansas City, conveniently located at 135th and Metcalf, is proudly owned and operated by Crowley. The Bassett brand boasts 120 years of generations of their family working there. They specialize in high-quality, Americanmade, custom furniture. This shared commitment to quality and family values makes Bassett a perfect partner.
Also, Katie pointed out that Bassett Kansas City offers a design-focused, custom shopping experience that is approachable, not overwhelming. Complimentary in-home design services are available, provided by their expert in-house design consultants.
She continued, “Bassett Kansas City offers a Design Trade Program, offering local Kansas City interior designers the opportunity to collaborate with us. It allows designers to bring clients into our showroom to experience Bassett products firsthand. Designers work hand-in-hand with our in-house design consultants to guide their clients through the entire furniture purchasing process, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.”
In store now, Bassett Kansas City is featuring an inspiring design created by their talented Design Trade partner, Jami Campbell Interiors. This display exemplifies how Bassett products combine style, quality and functionality to create beautiful spaces.
Jami enamored, “I graduated from the University of Kansas with dual degrees in Journalism and Communication. Professionally I always worked in marketing but loved helping family and friends design spaces on the side. It wasn't until I poured myself into the design of my own custom new construction home, that I decided to take a leap of faith to pursue my true passion of decorating and design. Hence, launching Jami Campbell Interiors in 2022.”
Jami enjoys working with Bassett Kansas City because when she sources their pieces, she feels comfortable knowing she is recommending quality furniture to clients that will last for years.
“Bassett doesn't carry throw away furniture that seems to be everywhere these days. I also have confidence that pieces will arrive on time and if we encounter any issues Katie and her team come immediately to the rescue. Their customer service is second to none. Having a local place for my clients to come sit and feel the furniture they are considering is valuable,” she continued. “Bassett carries pieces ranging in styles, from transitional to modern. Lastly, coming from a family of entrepreneurs, I love supporting a locally owned operation.”
The Jami Campbell Interiors Design Feature on display now at Bassett Kansas City highlights some of Jami’s design tips for readers:
• Do a swivel -- everyone loves a swivel! They are perfect for entertaining and "conversation spaces" as we have shown in this featured space. They are also great in basements and great rooms allowing guests to easily participate in the conversation in the kitchen/bar area yet swivel to watch the game that is on.
• Select the rug first -- The rug is almost always the best place to start when designing a space. It sets the tone of the space and narrows in your color palette for you.
• Don't forget the throw pillows -- add a pillow to accent chairs and sofas for extra comfort and styling.
• Every space should have a pop of green -- whether faux or real, never forget the greenery!
• Look for natural stone -- natural stone is very popular right now, but it never really goes out of style. I love adding an organic element like natural stone in every space. Here you can see it brought in with those gorgeous table lamps!
• Ottomans under the console -- Tucking ottomans under a console is practical and pretty! They provide great extra seating and/or a place to throw your feet up and are easy to move around.
• Mix your metals -- but keep it to two. Select your dominant metal. In our featured space it is gold but select a secondary metal that serves as the jewelry of the room. Our secondary metal is black in this featured space, and you can see we brought that in with the useful cocktail/drink side tables.
• Pick the right paint -- Here we used Sherwin Williams Fawn Brindle. It is a beautiful neutral paint color that adds the perfect amount of warmth and moodiness to this space. Always be sure to put up paint samples on multiple walls in your space and look at them at different times of the day to be sure you aren't seeing any unwanted undertones.
RAISING THE BAR TO CREATE SEAMLESS AMBIENCE.
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT
When a home has seen many years of love and living, sometimes it is a good idea to bring new life to it with updates, modern conveniences and creativity. That is where RDM Architecture and Wolfe Homes For Life, LLC, come to the forefront in this home in old Leawood.
“Updating these houses usually starts with opening them up. Consolidating spaces into something more cohesive and adding windows and large doors to open it up to the exterior and bring the outside in,” explained Matthew Lero, Principal, RDM Architecture. “We also try to vault ceilings wherever possible, causing the space to feel larger. In this case we maintained many windows to avoid disturbing the brick and stucco to keep the house affordable for the target buyer. On the interior, nearly every room was modified in some way.”
He noted that this is the third project he has partnered with clients Rick Stanley and John Wolfe, Wolfe Homes For Life, LLC, on.
“Rick Stanley and I are business partners and purchased this property for resale after working with Matt on the architectural end of things and Lisa Jensen Design on the interior finishes,” Wolfe explained.
Lero shared that this home is the first one they have done without going outside the building footprint.
“WHILE YOU CAN ADAPT TO ALMOST ANY HOUSE, WE WANT TO HELP SHAPE YOUR HOUSE TO THE WAY YOU WANT TO LIVE.”
“They have a pretty typical design goal for many of their projects which take these old Leawood houses that aren't ideal for aging residents and incorporate aspects of universal design allowing new owners to age in place,” he continued. “This typically includes a first-floor primary suite, widening hallways, raising the garage floor for easy entry in the house, etc. We believe in what they are doing and appreciate that they are keeping these houses and remodeling them rather than tearing them down. It makes them more accessible from a cost perspective, while maintaining the neighborhood’s integrity.”
This design’s most unique aspect is the glass-walled office, which was a formal living room totally disconnected from the rest of the house. They wanted to be able to bring light from the large front window without losing the functionality of a home office. It also creates an entry hall rather than walking directly into the living room. Frameless glass walls make the space feel much larger than it is, and the built-in storage wall is functional from both sides and highlights the new stairs.
The other highlight is the kitchen, which was relocated and opened up to the rest of the house. The cabinets wrap the corner,
hiding a walk-in pantry and coat closets in the new mudroom with plenty of room for backpacks. The laundry was moved to the main level and a powder room was tucked out of sight behind the office.
“While you can adapt to almost any house, we want to help shape your house to the way you want to live. Whether it is a remodel or a new build, we see it as the difference between a finely tailored piece of clothing and something you can find on the rack,” Lero continued. “RDM Architecture has always been a small firm focused on doing the best work we can for our clients and our size allows us to maintain that connection throughout project and ensure the results match the expectations. Working on somebody's home is personal and it takes a wide range of skills to successfully take a client through that process and get to the heart of what they want. We know it takes a team to be successful and who is on that team matters. It isn't about ego it is about the best the project can be.”
Visit https://rdmarchitecture.com/ and WolfeHomesForLife.com for more information.
realty report
HOUSEPLANTSThe Perfect Roommate
AN INDOOR GARDEN SANCTUARY
There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment.
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.
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
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE
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 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?
