HOMEWARD BOUND
We are open to service all your jewelry needs at both locations.
Transitions and Change
March always seems like the most transitional month around here. We will likely have a few days with a hint of a warm breeze, scattered sunny skies and the emergence of crocuses to start the annual succession of spring blossoms. The next day's weather is likely to bring slate gray skies, icy temperatures and the sight of tender flower buds poking through fresh snow.
In many respects a scenario like this is actually how it should be. A deep, extended freeze or perhaps more alarming, a sudden heat wave with unseasonably warm temps represents something more foreboding. That's why the theme for this month's issue — Home — is designed to be as comforting as resting on the couch wrapped in a warm blanket with a family pet dozing contentedly in a drowsy sunbeam.
We've pooled the talents of several contributors to bring you this issue. Whether it's examining different options for a home ( Renee Clark of @Properties), starting an art collection, considering a home organizing project ( Jamie Trewartha from Closets By Design) or contemplating the story your home tells ( Michael Kurowski of Jameson Sotheby's), the stories we share in this issue are full of ideas and advice.
We hope you find time and a cozy corner to relax and enjoy SW Lake in the calm and comfort of your own home.
MICHAEL BEIGHTOL, PUBLISHER
SW Lake serves families in nine communities including Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Long Grove, Barrington, Barrington Hills, Deer Park, Lake Barrington & North Barrington. Reader feedback and story ideas are always encouraged.
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Christina Sikorski
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Renee Clark, Megan Hoban, Michael Kurowski, Christina Sikorski, Jamie Trewartha
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michael Beightol, Megan Hoban, Michael Kurowski, Kasia Vetter
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 Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
The Spring Selling Season Has Arrived!
With more than 15 years’ experience and over $50M in sales, I use my marketing, analytical and negotiating skills to achieve positive outcomes for my clients. Telling the stories of my clients’ homes resonates with potential buyers, resulting in higher sale prices and shorter market times. Together, we will create a customized plan to fit your needs.
• Storybook created as a leave-behind for potential buyers
• Market-driven price analyses
• Negotiation strategies using creative, alternative solutions to ensure a successful closing
• Guidance to achieve the best financial return on repairs, minor renovations, and decor
• Calendar of priorities & deadlines
• Videography highlighting the lifestyle of your home and area
• Advanced photography including drone-captured aerials
• Home staging proposal and de-cluttering services
Barrington’s Nest School Now Open
The Nest Schools, now open in Barrington, presents a new approach to early childhood education in a welcoming environment where children can grow and thrive. The Nest Schools are part of a growing national network that is redefining early childhood education from infancy through school age. "We are excited to bring The Nest Schools to Barrington and provide families with a nurturing space where their children can thrive,” said Alyssa Gomez. Learn more at TheNestSchool.com
Get Outside and Enjoy Lake County this Month
From hiking at night along a solar lighted trail to hauling in a hard water lunker, Lake County Forest Preserves have lots to offer. The Old School Forest Preserve (Libertyville) and Lakewood Forest Preserve (Wauconda) have night trails with lights illuminating the way. Ice fishing ("hard water") is open on five forest preserves lakes. Update your fishing license and check the website to see which lakes are open when ice conditions allow; LCFPD.org.
A Change in Local Banking Leadership
Jon Stickney, President of Barrington Bank & Trust, has added another title to his name after his recent appointment as CEO. Stickney, who will celebrate 24 years of service at the bank in June, will be charged to continue growing the business and developing the next generation of leaders for the bank. With more than $2 billion in assets, in 2024 the bank expanded with a new facility, Hawthorn Woods Community Bank.
Let Your Home Invest in You With a Home Equity Line of Credit
What is a home equity line of credit?
A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a cost-efficient line of credit that borrows money against the value of your house. You’ve worked hard to become a homeowner, so why not let your house work for you?
A PATIENT-CENTRIC APPROACH TO DENTISTRY BY DR. LIANA TREMMEL OF REGENCY DENTAL CARE.
A Comprehensive Approach
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KASIA VETTER
Dr. Liana Tremmel and words to live by.
On Northwest Highway, about halfway between the Barrington and Palatine train stations, stands Regency Dental Care led by Dr. Liana Tremmel. It’s a beacon of personalized and comprehensive dental care that ensures each patient receives individualized care that caters to their unique needs.
The cornerstone of Dr. Tremmel’s practice is built upon her thorough initial patient assessments. Upon meeting a new patient, she begins with an extensive medical history review. This is complemented by a meticulous visual inspection of the mouth and teeth. Dr. Tremmel examines the color of the gums, checks for bleeding and loose teeth, and carefully palpates the lymph nodes of the face and neck. This hands-on approach is further supported by x-rays to assess bone levels, hidden cavities, and potential abnormalities such as oral cancer.
Engaging a patient in conversation is equally critical. Dr. Tremmel wants her patients to talk about diet, brushing practices, and specific concerns and expectations. This dialogue ensures that the patient knows that they are heard and involved in their own care plan.
Regency Dental Care offers a broad spectrum of treatments ranging from routine check-ups to complex procedures. Maybe somewhat unique is the accessibility she offers. Understanding that her patients have busy schedules her office is open two Saturdays a month. Additionally, she provides her direct phone number for after-hours emergencies, ensuring that her patients are never left without care when they need it most.
Among the myriad dental issues, Dr. Tremmel is particularly vigilant about bruxism (teeth grinding). She notes that stress is a significant factor contributing to this condition. During the global Covid pandemic Dr. Tremmel noted a spike in adolescent bruxism cases, due likely to an increase in stress brought on from being isolated. “If left unaddressed,” she said, “bruxism can lead to fractured teeth, jaw pain, and heightened sensitivity to temperature changes.”
CONTINUED >
In evaluating existing dental work such as fillings, crowns, or other restorations, Dr. Tremmel employs a combination of clinical examinations, X-rays, and photos taken with an intraoral camera. These images are especially valuable as they help in diagnosing problems and educating patients, allowing them to make informed decisions about their treatment.
Dr. Tremmel stresses the importance of regular check-ups to spot warning signs of oral cancer or other serious conditions. She advises vigilance for unusual lumps, sores that do not heal, and white or red patches in the mouth. Dental care professionals are on the front lines of cancer diagnoses by detecting early any unusual symptoms during routine dental visits.
Preventive care is a fundamental pillar of Dr. Tremmel’s practice. “I firmly believe that maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent dental issues,” she said. “This includes brushing and flossing twice daily.” Acknowledging that many people find daily flossing a challenge, she suggests alternatives like using a WaterPik device, which can be particularly beneficial for children with braces or older adults with limited manual dexterity.
When it comes to choosing toothpaste and toothbrushes, Dr. Tremmel advises her patients to avoid those
that are too abrasive and to select products that are gentle yet effective at cleaning.
During her childhood in Romania Dr. Tremmel had this feeling she was meant to be a dentist. “There is an old tradition that on a baby’s first birthday the godparents assemble on a silver platter a collection of different objects for the baby to pick up,” she recalled. Based on what they choose it’s supposed to determine what they are to do in life. “I picked up a lipstick, a toothbrush and a piece of jewelry. I love to wear makeup and jewelry; and I became a dentist.” Her career choice was apparently destiny.
In practice for 20 years now, Dr. Tremmel graduated from dental school in Romania in 2005 and completed her residency at the University of Colorado - Denver. Her journey in dentistry is rooted in a deep commitment to patient care and community service. As a private practitioner, she has cultivated a practice that prioritizes personalized treatment plans and preventive care.
To learn more about Dr. Liana Tremmel and what else sets Regency Dental Care apart from other dental practices, be sure to visit regencydentalcare.com
EVERY HOME HAS A STORY
RESPECTING AND SHARING YOUR FAMILY’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS, “IN THE ROOMS WHERE IT HAPPENS.”
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL KUROWSKI
When you step into a home, you are immediately embraced by its authenticity and uniqueness because of the people who live there.
A house has four walls filled with furniture and décor; a home reflects the people who make their lives there. A home is a place where memories are made, where you begin each day, share precious time with family, and rest each night. Your home is where your heart is; it’s the
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL KUROWSKI & VHT
place where loved ones and friends come together to celebrate life’s special moments and milestones.
If your home could talk, its story would be like chapters in a book. Every room has a special narrative on everyday events and special occasions that can span a lifetime.
The story of our home began when I carried my bride, Mary Jane, across the threshold. The following chapters were about
bringing home Edward, our newborn son, and introducing him to our Westies, the fun of first baths, sharing bedtime stories, and the excitement of moving our growing son into his first big-boy bed.
There are chapters on Sunday movie nights in the family room, holiday dinners with extended family in the dining room, and birthday and graduation parties in the backyard.
“HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS.”
I think many of us would say all our stories are beautiful and funny, and yes, occasionally messy. That’s why, when it’s time to move on, all the love and memories made in a home can make it very hard to leave. It’s like coming to the last chapter in a cherished book; we don’t want the story to end. Leaving a home, however, doesn’t have to mean you are leaving your stories behind.
As a Realtor®, I share what’s unique about a home in ways that will resonate with prospective buyers. It’s a responsibility I take seriously and find very special and rewarding. For my clients I will stress the importance of carrying their stories
and memories with them as they start the next chapter of their lives in a new home.
To help market each home, together with my client I create a storybook showcasing a favorite room, special memories, and what they love about the house, yard, and neighborhood. This storybook sits on the kitchen counter for buyers to look at during showings, after which it becomes a precious keepsake for my clients to keep.
I will advise and counsel you on what needs to be done to best prepare your home, set priorities, and price the home correctly to sell at the highest price in the least amount of time. Pricing your home properly when it first goes on the market
helps to avoid seller’s fatigue caused by the home sitting unsold for longer than necessary. Statistics show that homes that are initially overpriced, then followed by multiple price reductions, ultimately sell for less.
Professional photography is done with intent, including aerial and still photography along with videos to tell the most compelling story of the lifestyle to be enjoyed in the home and neighboring community.
Negotiating requires patience in asking strategic questions, and creativity in developing alternative solutions should issues arise. By listening first to understand, then to respond, I’m able to strike a suitable balance between the needs of both parties across a range of issues, such as post-close possessions, unique lending scenarios and surprise repair complications, all while always acting with integrity and care.
It’s been said that moving is one of life’s top five most stressful events, right up there with losing a job and the death of a loved one. Allow me to reduce your stress by trusting me to complete the story of your current home while I find you the perfect place to write your sequel.
About the Author: Michael Kurowski is a real estate agent with Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty in Barrington. To learn more about telling the story of your home please call 847.804.7350 or visit KurowskiResidential.com
Mary Jane, Edward and Michael Kurowski.
Fun with cousins.
Drone photography reveals relaxing back yard scene.
More drone photography, beautifully capturing this home's expansive, serene back yard and beach.
STOP WAITING: THERE’S NO TIME LIKE NOW TO GET ORGANIZED.
Home Organizing Starts Here
ARTICLE BY JAMIE TREWARTHA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Just as your home reflects your unique personality, so can your storage spaces.
March is the perfect time to fall in love — with organization! If 2025 is the year you want to improve your home organization, now’s the perfect time to tackle this issue.
SPICE UP YOUR ROUTINE
Home organization doesn’t have to feel like drudgery. Look for ways to make it fun. Before you begin a new project, turn on some lively music. Or, if there’s an upbeat podcast you’ve wanted to hear, pop in some earbuds and listen while you sort. When it’s time to reorganize your pantry, begin by throwing out expired goods in time with the music. Next, consider your lifestyle, and divide your pantry into cooking categories that work for you. For instance, you might group foods by type (baking goods, condiments, canned items, etc.), by meal (breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner), or by some method unique to you. Add a little zest by choosing multicolored canisters to store dry goods such as pasta, rice and cereal, but be sure the containers are see-through, so you can tell with a glance when it’s time to restock.
BE CREATIVE WITH HOME ORGANIZATION
Just as your home reflects your unique personality, so can your storage spaces. Brighten up your bedroom closet by painting or wallpapering a wall. Use shower rings to snap
purses onto a closet rod so you can quickly choose the right one. Instead of piling your jewelry in a box, add a custom jewelry organization drawer to your walk-in closet or vanity so you can admire your treasures easily and also clearly see what you have.
BE PLAYFUL
Don’t feel that you have to follow anyone else’s rules of home organization or style. If your home office feels cluttered, find some fun containers to rein in the chaos. Place pens, pencils, scissors, etc. in coffee cans you’ve painted or wrapped with scrapbook paper. Use mason jars or pottery cups to hold paper clips, staples, or stamps.
FEEL THE LOVE
Because they yield quicker results, small spaces are usually more fun to organize. But rearranging a large space, like a garage, can be more satisfying in the long run. Tackle an overcrowded or messy garage by creating five piles: keep, sell, donate, recycle, and toss. Keep only the items you need and use regularly. Sell tools or machines that are taking up space and collecting dust. Donate items that would benefit your favorite charity. Check with your local government to see where to dispose of hard-to-recycle items, such as old paint, cleaning products, batteries, and LED light bulbs.
Left page, Bottom Right: Owners Jamie Trewartha (L) and Paul Paluch believe that home organization doesn't have to be drudgery, and offer many convenient solutions.
Not only have you now created a tidy garage where you can find what you’re looking for easily, but you’ve also made some extra cash, supported a good cause, and helped the environment.
IMAGINE HOW HAPPY YOU’LL BE
When you’re feeling less than enthusiastic about home organization, make a list of all the benefits you’ll see when your task is complete. The benefits
may be specific to a particular room, or more general, such as saving you time and money, eliminating stress, and freeing up more time to spend with family and friends.
No matter what sort of storage assistance you're looking for, Closets By Design can help. Jamie Trewartha is co-owner along with Paul Paluch. Visit chicagonorth.closetsbydesign.com to learn more.
“Flower Pot” by Katy Beightol. ARTIST’S PALETTE
the art of COLLECTING
Fill Your Home With Art You Fall in Love With.
As consumers, we are constantly being enticed to buy: whether it’s the jewelry we can’t live without, concert tickets to a show we don’t want to miss, or that favorite pair of shoes that’s calling our name.
We buy what we love, and art for a home should be no different. If you are new to acquiring original art, you may find it daunting, but it shouldn’t be. It is a special purchase that forces you to dig deep and discover a bit more about yourself. At first, many people shy away from buying original art because of the commitment. It’s a big decision after all, and how do you really know when it’s the “perfect” piece?
Since art is subjective, part of the process is learning what style of art is the best fit for you. Is it colorful
and energetic abstracts, or soothing landscapes that catch your eye? Maybe you are drawn to local photography, or even figurative works. There is no wrong answer, and maybe it’s a mix of several styles that creates your unique collection.
The best way to find out your “art personality” is to get out and visit galleries and art shows. Options locally include a gallery like Main Street Art (Lake Zurich), artist cooperatives including Starline in Harvard and annual art shows, such as Art in the Barn (Lake Barrington) or the summertime art show in downtown Barrington. When traveling try to pop into galleries and consider buying art as a souvenir. Whether in a gallery or at a fair you can explore various art styles, mediums, and even
ARTICLE BY MEGAN HOBAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL & PROVIDED
"Webster Ave" by Siler.
learn more about the talented artists who create the kinds of works that you like.
With the purchase of original art comes other considerations. Often, we have clients who need direction figuring out what size of art they need and its placement in the design of their space. If you find a piece of art you love, you will always find a spot for it. Ask the gallery if they offer in-home art consultation services to see the piece in your setting.
Great custom framing is key and well-designed framing is the jewelry to a great piece of art. Quality archival framing protects your art from UV rays that can damage a piece over time. Original art should last generations.
I’m often asked, should I buy art for investment? There is a place for investment art, but I don’t believe in buying art with the pretense that it will go up in value. There is no guarantee it will and to me, good investment art brings different riches to your life. Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you.
The best art investment should be the feeling you experience gazing into an oil painting that perfectly captures a warm sunset over the prairie, or the texture created by a palette knife on the abstract that seems to pop off the canvas. That is what makes investing in original art priceless.
About the Author: Megan Hoban is an art curator, gallery operator and owner of Prairiebrook Consulting. Find her at pbartsconsulting.com
“Beneath
“Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you.”
"Endless Possibilities" by Scott Bean.
the Wings of Fire” by Allan Chow.
"girl" by Julia Klimova.
making a home investment
WHAT THREE DIFFERENT PRICES BUY WHEN INVESTING LOCALLY IN RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE.
The communities of SW Lake County are blessed with a variety of housing types, from large estate homes to affordable homes in quiet neighborhoods. There are still available open spaces to build a dream home. This month we asked Renee Clark with the Barrington office of @Properties to give us three options that are emblematic of the choices available to folks seeking a single-family home locally.
ARTICLE BY RENEE CLARK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL AND VHT
Cresthill Drive.
Luxurious Retreat in Barrington: 25890 W. Crest Hill Drive, Barrington, is a one-of-a-kind retreat. This 4 bedroom, 2.2 bath, fully customized ranch is nestled on a professionally landscaped 5-acre property, featuring a serene pond with two fountains and a private island. The home boasts a stunning entry with an expansive foyer and walls of picture windows. The entry opens to the living room and family room, separated by a beautiful see-through fireplace with custom ceramic logs and rare pink granite surround. Large picture windows provide a stunning view of the lush landscape. The kitchen is generously sized and professionally designed, and is the central gathering place of the home. The kitchen is beautifully appointed
with high-end Wolf appliances, and a built-in coffee maker supplied by filtered water. Gather around the oversized island to engage the cook or enjoy a casual meal and conversation. The expansive primary suite is spectacular, a gorgeous bedroom with a cathedral ceiling and wall of windows overlooking the beautiful backyard. The luxurious spa bath boasts an oversized shower, dual floating vanities, heated floors and a private screened porch. There are two expansive closets with handmade custom organizers. Outdoor living abounds with terraced perennial gardens, a patio with woodburning firepit, and the piece de resistance: a 900 square foot screened porch, perfect for relaxation and entertainment. Offered at $1.4 million.
Great curb appeal at 24101 W. Rose Ave.
Open Spaces in Lake Zurich: At 24101 W. Rose Ave., Lake Zurich, you’ll find peaceful living in a brick beauty with volume ceilings, hardwood floors, and a casual vibe that makes you feel happy the moment you walk through the door. The kitchen is recently remodeled with maple cabinetry, stainless appliances and granite counters, and is open to the living room. This space boasts a gas fireplace, with stone surround and wood accents. Relax and unwind in the sunroom — whether you’re reading a book, watching TV or enjoying the view of the lush gardens outside. With its vaulted cedar ceiling, three walls of windows and a potbellied stove, it’s a space you’ll never want to leave. The primary suite is located on the main level with a spacious walk-in closet, wall closet and beautifully remodeled bath. The dining room, powder room and oversized laundry are also located on this level. Upstairs is home to three more bedrooms and a full bath. All this, and a full finished basement provides a large recreation room, separate office/flex room and the abundance of storage. Car enthusiasts enjoy the attached 2.5 car garage, plus a detached 2 car garage with a loft for storage. Offered at $675,000.
Picturesque in Long Grove: 1146 Steeple View Drive is the premiere and only lot available in sought-after Steeple View Estates. This property is surrounded by natural conservancy with a beautiful water view. Build your dream home complete with a walk-out basement to enjoy the best of indoor/ outdoor living. The property is perfectly balanced with mature trees and native vegetation, offering a peaceful, serene oasis with expansive private space and endless possibilities. Enjoy walking to the heart of Historic Long Grove Village to explore charming shops, excellent dining, and the many festivals and activities that make this vibrant community truly special. Students attend renowned Stevenson High School and award-winning elementary and middle schools. Offered at $265,000.
Learn more about Renee Clark and her team at @Properties Christies International Real Estate in Barrington by visiting ReneeClarkHomes.com or by calling 847.612.0027
Serenity in Steeple View Estates.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 1ST - 9TH
Disney's Mary Poppins in Concert
111 West Campbell Street, Arlington Heights
Prepare yourself to be practically perfect in every way as Mary Poppins takes Jane and Michael Banks on a musical adventure through their wildest dreams in this staged concert. Presented at the Metropolis Theater in conjunction with the School of the Performing Arts (MetropolisArts.com). Matinee and Evening Performances available.
MARCH 2ND
Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock
203 North Genesee Street, Waukegan | 3:00 PM
Join Jim Henson’s Fraggles in a new escapade to search for the Celebration Stone with songs and laughs from new puppet friends. This interactive show includes sing-alongs and audience participation. Presented at the Genesee Theater in Waukegan. Info and tickets at GeneseeTheatre.com
MARCH 6TH
Mansion of Dreams
203 North Genesee Street, Waukegan | 7:30 PM
Illusionist Rick Thomas has performed all over the world, from Las Vegas to Australia, and now brings his magic here to Lake County. From this Academy of Magical Arts “Magician of the Year” look for illusions, comedy, and dance in an evening that will not be forgotten. Find tickets and more at GeneseeTheatre.com
MARCH 7TH
Puzzle Palooza: Family Edition
MARCH 8TH
Riders in the Sky
121 West Van Buren Street, Woodstock | 2:00 PM
Come live the cowboy way and enjoy both kinds of entertainment — comedy AND western — with the Grammy Award-winning Riders in the Sky, channeling the spirit of the Old West in the vein of Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. For all ages, this group has performed on many stages and venues, including NPR and the Grand Ol’ Opry. Presented at the Woodstock Opera House (WoodstockOperaHouse.com).
MARCH 9TH & 16TH
Maple Syrup Hike
21950 North Riverwoods Road, Riverwoods
Hike with rangers to learn about tapping trees and sample local syrup before heading home. Registration is required and spots fill quickly for this popular event. Please note, this program is only for individual families; organized school and scouting groups please call 847.638.3220 for designated group trips. Presented by the Lake County Forest Preserves in Riverwoods. Learn more at LCFPD.org.
MARCH 12TH - APRIL 27TH
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
25 East Galena Boulevard, Aurora
Come for the battle royale as six relatable students compete to be a spelling champion with catchy and clever songs like “Pandemonium” and “The I Love You Song.” This two-time Tony winner including for Best Book is not to be missed. Presented at the Paramount Theater (ParamountAurora.com). Matinee and evening performances available.
MARCH 13TH
Iditarod: The Toughest Sled Dog Race on Earth
Virtual Event | 7:00 PM
Join the world-famous sled race virtually from home with Josi Shelly direct from Alaska. Follow along with the epic Iditarod trail and learn insider information. Presented by the Ela Area Public; register at EAPL.org.
MARCH 15TH
Clover Cruise: Watch the Chicago River Turn Green
112 West Wacker Drive, Chicago
Celebrate all things Irish as the City of Chicago dresses in green for St. Patrick’s Day. This 21+ only event will give guests front row seats to see the Chicago River turn green. Presented by Chicago's First Lady; tickets at CruiseChicago.com/tours/clover-cruise. Check website for departure times.
