Home is not a place, it's a feeling.
Welcome to the Home Issue - a celebration of the places where we find comfort, create memories, and express our truest selves. A home is more than just four walls; it’s the backdrop to life’s most precious moments. It tells a story, not just of architecture or design, but of the people who bring it to life. In this issue, we celebrate all things home!
"A home should tell the story of who you are and be a collection of what you love" - Nat Berkus, American interior designer.
With insights from a local interior design store, we’ll delve into the secrets of creating personal spaces that brim with character and elevate your home’s interior. Within these pages, you’ll also discover an unconventional home style that’s quickly becoming the latest trend. As the temperatures warm and we venture outdoors, safety becomes a priority. Whether it’s for your kids, your pets, or simply to enhance your outdoor space, fencing plays a vital role. We’ve turned to a Golden City area expert to share his advice on selecting the perfect style of fence for your home.
For me, there’s a special magic to the moments that only happen at home… game nights filled with laughter, family bustling in and out, and neighbors who feel more like family. In my previous home, I have fond memories of neighbors who became lifelong friends and our progressive painting party. One summer, we each chose a room we needed to paint and made it much more fun by doing it together. With nothing but good friends and a bit of time to spare, we not only created beautifully refreshed spaces, but we deepened bonds that have stood the test of time. Those walls became more than just paint. They became a testament to friendship, teamwork, and the joy of building something meaningful together.
Your home is your canvas; the beauty lies in making it uniquely yours. Here’s to creating spaces that nurture, inspire, and reflect who you are. Here’s to making a house a home.
Warm regards,
KATHY GRAHAM, EDITOR @TOPEKALIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kristol Kumar | kristol@kristolkumar.com
Lindsey Wagers | info@wagersphotography.com
Create Uplift | info@createuplift.com
STAFF WRITERS
Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com
Linda Ditch | lindaaditch@gmail.com
Amanda Knowland | amandalanum@gmail.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Teryl Studebaker
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Sean O'Keefe
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
business monthly
Meet Claire McDougal at Sakred Salon
Claire McDougal is an esthetician at Sakred Salon in downtown Topeka, specializing in skin care and facial treatments. Guided by her motto, “Results-Driven Relaxation,” she blends soothing spa elements with effective treatments to achieve your skin goals. With nearly two years of experience in medical and day spas, Claire provides personalized care for concerns like acne or aging. Her calming approach ensures every treatment is both relaxing and results-oriented. To make an appointment call 785.600.0979.
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TOPEKA’S ECLECTIC Furniture Boutique
SOHO Interiors Brings Decades of Experience to Home Design
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH
The style of SOHO Interiors reflects its New York City borough namesake—innovative, enchanting, eclectic, and clever. The home furnishing boutique opened 17 years ago in the Westboro Mart as an offshoot of Studio Furniture, the well-known store on SW 57th Street. Although both locations are owned by Keith and Vickie Lynch, SOHO was designed to provide customers with a slightly different experience.
"We offer customers the complete package, including furniture, rugs, wall art, throw pillows, and accessories," says Angie Lynch Varney, daughter and manager of the SOHO location. "We make an effort to understand what people like. I tell them, 'You can go anywhere and make a room look like someone else's, but that's not truly you. We can do a little work to ensure your room reflects who you are.'"
Vickie Lynch adds, "We avoid trends. That's not who we are. We learn about our customers. We listen and get to know them so we can try to create a space that's personal. That communicates and reflects their lifestyle, and it's comfortable for them. Good design is making good use of space and creating a home that is comfortable, pleasing and beautiful."
SOHO's clients range from people looking for a specific piece of furniture to ones needing an entire room designed. Angie notes, "Some people come in with their own ideas, and others come in just saying, 'I have a room I need help with. I don't know what to do.'"
In such cases, Angie and Vickie visit the client's home to see the space, take measurements, and get a feel for their style. If they're unsure what they want, she'll often ask them to find something they love, such as a piece of art, to act as the centerpiece for the decor. She'll also ask what the space will be used for and how many people it needs to accommodate.
"Once you know those things, and their budget, you can start helping them. We take thousands of options and narrow it down to the ones that should be pleasing to them,” she says.
At its heart, SOHO Interiors is a furniture store. There are 75 unique lines to choose from, many made in the USA. These are quality pieces which, though they may cost more than what's found at discount and chain stores, are timeless furnishings made by people paid a living wage. Furnishings of this caliber also prevent owners from going through the buying process again in three or four years.
This industry knowledge stems from the family's decades of experience. In 1968, they acquired the Studio Furniture location at SW 57th Street. Many Golden City residents recall it as The Furniture Barn before the name changes in 2005 and design services began. SOHO Interiors was established in 2008 to expand into a new area of the community and to offer design services as well.
Angie says, "This furthers what my parents have done for so long, which is to support and grow family units and create homes for people."
"We are here to serve clients and help them create the home they want," Vickie adds. "We don't push or try to make something happen that doesn't fit their lifestyle. If you're honest, your prices are fair, and you give good service, then people are happy. We work hours on these projects and will keep working until the client is satisfied."
For those interested in SOHO Interiors, stop by at 3129 SW Huntoon Street Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call 785.234.2640 for an appointment. Their website is SOHOWestboro.com and follow them on Instagram @soho.interiors.
FINALLY, THE “GREEN” IS ON YOUR SIDE OF THE FENCE
Meet Brian Green, Owner of Flint Hills Fence Company
ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FLINT HILLS FENCE COMPANY
Flint Hills Fence Company has been providing quality fence services to Topeka, Manhattan, Junction City, Wamego, and the surrounding areas since 2010. We sat down with owner Brian Green to learn what makes this fence company a homeowner favorite.
“I bought the company about three years ago from a good friend who was moving out of state,” Green said. “They had already established a good reputation in the communities we serve, and I think that’s critical. I decided to purchase the business and focus on growing the name and footprint but to maintain the high quality, strong communication, and fast service!"
When asked what sets Flint Hills Fence Company apart from the competition, Green emphasized that quality is their top priority. “While most installers use a standard 5/8" thick picket, we prefer 3/4” thick pickets. They are less likely to warp and twist. With the weather extremes we get here in the Midwest, it makes a big difference,” he explained. The same philosophy applies to the metal fences they install. “Many companies use aluminum fences imported from China. Our steel fences are made in America and are of high quality. Lawnmowers and weed whips will dent aluminum much more easily and aluminum fences fade sooner.”
The most important thing you need in a fence is quality materials, and that’s exactly what you get with Flint Hills Fence Company. “Our fences are designed to last for a long time,” Green said. “The average wood fence will last 10–15 years (depending on maintenance), and the average steel fence will last 15–20 years.”
Green explained that he doesn’t see his business as simply selling fences. Instead, he views it as providing solutions. One of the primary reasons to install a fence is to keep your property safe. Fences create a physical barrier that deters trespassers, protects kids and pets from wandering off, and provides peace of mind knowing your space is secure. Another reason homeowners invest in a fence is for privacy. Whether you’re enjoying a family barbecue, reading on your deck, or relaxing in the backyard, a fence shields you from prying eyes and allows you to fully enjoy your space without feeling exposed.
Flint Hills Fence Company offers privacy fences in cedar or vinyl, with standard heights of four, five, and six feet, as well as custom, taller heights. “We like to say we keep kids and dogs in your yard and nosy neighbors out,” Green laughed. Whether you’re enclosing a sprawling backyard,
ensuring privacy, or safeguarding a pool area, fences play a vital role in enhancing your home and lifestyle.
In addition to installing new fences, Flint Hills Fence Company also offers fence repairs (including working with insurance companies for storm damage claims) and fence maintenance, such as staining and sealing. “We are honest and upfront and provide a high-quality product,” Green added. “It’s not that hard. We just treat people the way we would want to be treated.”
Fences are more than just boundary markers for your property; they’re an investment in security, privacy, and aesthetics that can transform your outdoor space. The right fence can enhance your home’s appearance, complement its architectural style and landscaping, and add character and charm to your property. Plus, a quality fence boosts curb appeal and increases your home’s value.
From galvanized chain link to cedar, vinyl, and steel, Flint Hills Fence Company can install the fence you need and ensure you’ll enjoy it for years to come. If you are interested in residential or commercial fence installation, repair, or maintenance, visit Flinthillsfence.com or call (785) 477-8262 for a free quote.
MODERN COUNTRY LIVING
The Rising Trend of Barndominiums
ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND
In recent years, barndominiums have skyrocketed in popularity, offering homeowners the perfect blend of functionality, affordability and charm. These metal-structured homes, often featuring expansive open floor plans and integrated workshop spaces, have become the dream dwelling for those seeking a rural retreat with modern comforts. One couple who has fully embraced this trend are Mike Brozek and his fiancée, Jill Frakes. Their journey to creating the perfect country getaway highlights not only the growing appeal of barndominiums, but also the thoughtful planning and personal touches that make these homes special.
A HOME DESIGNED FOR GATHERING
For Mike and Jill, the decision to build a barndominium was driven by their love for family and the outdoors. Jill and Mike live and work in Kansas City, but wanted a retreat to host family and friends, with space to store their RV and boat. With family spread out geographically, the couple envisioned a retreat that would serve as a central gathering space for holidays, birthday parties, and weekend getaways. First, they had to determine where it would be built.
JILL
AND
“MIKE
A SPACIOUS OPEN FLOOR PLAN AND HIGH-END, DURABLE FLOORING.”
MIND, INCORPORATING
DESIGNED THEIR HOME WITH ENTERTAINING IN
“Any of these types of projects start with the land,” Mike said. “There were three non-negotiables we were looking for: a paved road, electricity and water.”
They were patient in their search and eventually found a 23-acre property that checked all the boxes located just south of Topeka.
FROM BLUEPRINT TO REALITY
Once they secured the land, Mike and Jill began designing their home with flexibility and durability in mind. They envisioned
a half-shop, half-home structure. Upon hearing their vision, a coworker introduced Jill to the idea of a "barndominium".
With a name for the type of home they wanted, research began.
"We printed pictures out and went through different features we wanted," Jill said. "Social media was very helpful early on in the process."
Mike and Jill worked with QSI to finalize their build-out plans just before COVID-19 hit. Having purchased their land in 2019, they locked in construction costs in early 2020—a decision that saved them about 40% in costs as material prices surged. While supply chain delays extended their timeline, construction was complete at the beginning of 2022.
CUSTOM FEATURES FOR COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Mike and Jill designed their home with entertaining in mind, incorporating a spacious open floor plan and high-end, durable flooring to withstand heavy foot traffic. One of the family’s favorite features is a set of four custom-built bunk beds inspired by a friend’s house.
Another critical design element was a pull-through garage with large bays, allowing easy access for their camper and boat.
"I’m good at backing my camper up, but if you don’t have to, you shouldn’t," Mike joked.
Durability and low maintenance were also major considerations. Opting for a metal structure eliminated concerns about
termites and dry rot, while countertops, windowsills and showers are constructed of high-quality Onyx materials.
For anyone else looking to build a barndominium, Mike and Jill offer this advice:
• Be intentional and thoughtful about product materials and their use in the home.
• Join Facebook barndominium groups and use photos for inspiration.
• Visit other barndominium builds, talking to homeowners and contractors for advice.
• Before construction, see the home layout on the land. "We spray-painted outlines of the walls and key areas to visualize how we’d live in the space," Mike shared.
• Check in throughout the build process to ensure things are happening the way you envision them.
For now, the barndominium serves as a weekend escape, but in less than a decade, it will become Mike and Jill’s full-time retirement home.
"It’s our little sanctuary," Jill said. “We’re there to be in the country and listen to nature and get treated with a beautiful sunset at the end of the day.”
realty report
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!
MARCH 2025
Join a Family
THE TOPEKA COUNTRY CLUB
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 28TH – MARCH 1ST
Capital City Carnage Demolition Derby
Stormont Vail Events Center Event times vary
Capital City Carnage Demolition Derby is returning to Stormont Vail Events Center in February 2025! This two-day indoor demolition derby has three events with nearly $110,000 in prize money, and 395 drivers will come from all across North America to Topeka to compete! More info at stormontvaileventscenter. com/events/2024/carnage20242
MARCH 28TH
Harlem Globetrotters World Tour 2025
Stormont Vail Events Center | 7:00 PM
Get ready for the jaw-dropping spins, slams, and dunks you’ve come to love at every Harlem Globetrotters game—plus exciting new challenges as players compete to pull off incredible trick shots and more! Don’t miss the action when the Harlem Globetrotters roll into the Stormont Vail Events Center on March 28. stormontvaileventscenter.com/events
MARCH 30TH
Bob Dylan: Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour
TPAC | 8:00 PM
Rough and Rowdy Ways World Wide Tour is a concert tour by American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan in support of his 39th studio album Rough and Rowdy Ways (2020).
JAXON COWDIN
TOPEKA HIGH SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I am a current senior at Topeka High School & TALC. I do the web & digital comms program. I am also a part of our Link Crew and a high ranking member of a group known as “High Five”. I have competed in cross country, soccer, swim & dive, and track & field. I have gone to state for swim & dive four times and two times (so far) for track.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Jaxon
I own two school records at Topeka High for swim & dive.
I did ballet for seven years and yoga for four years.
Over the summer I spend my time lifeguarding.
LIAM STEGMAN
HAYDEN HIGH SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I participate in several activities at Hayden including soccer, swim, track, National Honors Society, forensics, FBLA, and STUCO. These activities have inspired me to help my community through organizations like Top Soccer, a program that helps children with different abilities learn how to play soccer. I’ve also participated in the iCan Bike program through the Capper Foundation, which teaches children with special needs how to ride a bike. I plan on attending K-State to pursue a degree in engineering.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Liam
1.
I love to travel. My favorite place I’ve been to is St. Kitts, and I'm planning on traveling to Europe this summer.
I spend a lot of my free time playing and learning new things on guitar. I’m a huge R&B fan, it's by far my favorite genre. 2.
I’ve seen the Polar Express over 100 times. It's the best Christmas movie ever, by far.
DANIELLE HUBBARD
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I’m very excited for my future and I plan on continuing my education at Spelman College, in Atlanta, Georgia. I plan to major in political science with a pre-law track, hoping to become a lawyer. During free time I love spending time with family and friends, listening to music, making crafts, and watching movies. I’m highly involved with my community by participating in 12 extracurricular activities. Some highlights include National Honors Society, varsity cheer captain, and Black Excellence Club president.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Danielle
1.
2.
I have wanted to be a lawyer since I was in kindergarten.
I have three nieces, one nephew, and I became an aunt at 13 years old.
3.
I have traveled to Texas nine times and my favorite spot is South Padre Island.
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
SHAWNEE HEIGHTS H.S.
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
WASHBURN RURAL HIGH SCHOOL JACE RAINES
LAUREN BACKMAN
CAIR PARAVEL LATIN SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I’m a senior at Washburn Rural where I’ve been able to participate in one of the countries premier debate squads. In both my junior and senior years I’ve competed at three different national championships, the Tournament of Champions, the National and Debate Tournament, and the National Debate Coaches Association National Championship. At the NSDT, my partner and I were one of the top 20 teams there.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Jace
I participated in jazz, concert band, debate, forensics, scholars bowl, and model UN.
I have the cutest dog ever who is named Molly.
My friends and I tried and failed to create an ESports club my sophmore year.
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I have grown up in Silver Lake, KS my whole life and started attending CPLS during 8th grade. Throughout my high school career, I have been academically and spiritually challenged, which I am very grateful for. I have been playing softball since I was 5 years old and last spring, I committed to Bethany College to play college softball. CPLS doesn’t have their own softball program, but I am blessed to have the opportunity to play at Topeka High School through our Co-Op agreement and am excited for my senior season.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Lauren
I have played softball in 15 different states. 1. In 2020, I went on a missions trip to Mexico and almost didn’t get to come back across the border due to the pandemic. 2.
I am a waitress at the Big Biscuit and look forward every week to seeing my regulars.
273-5080
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
