hearth THE VILLAGE AT OAKLAND SPRINGS
In
Season RESIDENTS
VILLAGE LIFE
HOMES
home is who I share
What I love most about my
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it with.
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GATHER ROUND
Let the Holiday Season Begin! To many, it’s the best time of the year.
Our builders tell us they design their homes
for these seasons and the occasions that accompany them. Outdoor entertaining spaces that are inviting for large family
gatherings, oversized islands in the kitchen to gather around, and generous fireplaces to provide backdrops for storytelling. We are
excited to bring you another issue of Hearth featuring the best in Village living in all seasons! Enjoy, and Happy Holidays!
John Pinter, Editor
CEO Red Earth Publishing
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An Eye For Style With a French/Creole flair the La’Mark’s home has become everything they’ve dreamed of.
The Indescribable Charm Of Madison All of the conveniences plus all of the charm, Madison has everything for a life well lived.
The Center Of It All Inspiration for your favorite gathering spot in the house.
So Nice To Meet You Christine Elder & the Fry Family talk about what makes Oakland Springs so special.
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Something Extra Tom and Ashley Brown have given their namesake restaurant that extra touch.
Explore New Frontiers The U.S. Space & Rocket Center has something to offer for all ages.
Get Picky Where to find the seasons best U-Pick orchards and farms.
The INDESCRIBABLE CHARM OF
MADISON
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T
There is something wonderfully idyllic about Madison, and about living in The Village at Oakland
Springs in particular. White picket fences adorn the yards of charming southern homes. Neighbors stroll along the sidewalks, waving to one another as they enjoy a crisp autumn day on the tree-lined streets. It’s hard to believe such a neighborhood, rife with old-fashioned charm, is tucked in a city that is fast becoming the dream destination for people throughout Alabama. For the moment, while Madison is enjoying the benefits of a booming city, those moving in are surprised at the tight-knit community they find within The Village. And, given that nearby Huntsville is experiencing a sharp rise in the number of tech companies who are expanding their workforce there, Madison, situated a mere 20 minutes away, is within perfect commuting distance. NEED MORE REASONS TO MOVE TO MADISON? HERE ARE SOME OF THE CITY’S TOP-SELLING POINTS: CONVENIENT AIRPORT ACCESS You’ll be happy to know the Huntsville International Airport is less than 10 miles away from The Village at Oakland Springs. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED SCHOOL SYSTEM You’ll be amazed how many people move to Madison so their children can receive a top-tier education. The school system here is ranked one of the best in all of Alabama, and the district has been ranked among the 50 best school systems in America. www.VillageAtOaklandSprings.com
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SMALL TOWN FEEL WITH BIG CITY BENEFITS Madison has been designated as the fastest growing city in Alabama yet, with a population of a little over 50,000 residents, it still enjoys a small-town feel. Many of the perks that come from living in a big city—fine dining, thriving entertainment, and a pulsing nightlife—are readily available without the need to leave this idyllic hamlet.
living
HOMETOWN IN AN UP-AND COMING CITY And we cannot mention idyllic charm without highlighting our own Village at Oakland Springs which is fast becoming the first-choice neighborhood for those moving to the state’s fastest-growing town. As the neighborhood continues to take shape, a town center is currently underway that will house over 15,000 square feet of retail space, restaurant locations, and luxury apartment living. A community pool and neighborhood meeting house are also included in the plans as perks for the coterie of neighbors. Additionally, residents will enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center and a dedicated room for yoga sessions. Taking advantage of the beautiful Alabama weather is another priority at Oakland Springs, and you’ll see it reflected in the designs of both home and neighborhood. Houses are built with old-fashioned wraparound porches, perfect for iced-tea sipping as the sun sinks low. Many homes have outdoor dining areas, allowing friends and family members to break bread together while enjoying the natural beauty around them. Lovely pocket parks are tucked throughout the community, providing easy access to the natural wonder of Alabama.
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BEST OF: BEST GREENWAY TRAIL: MILL CREEK GREENWAY BEST PLAYGROUND: KID’S KINGDOM BEST WEEKEND ACTIVITY: MADISON CITY FARMERS MARKET BEST HIKE: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
Committed To Excellence We ensure an enjoyable homebuilding experience by continuously demonstrating the highest levels of honesty, integrity, teamwork, professionalism, and proven customer service. These are the foundations upon which Ford Classic Homes has established itself as the leader in luxury homebuilding over the past 25 years. CONTACT: 256.384.5051 to learn about the building process Marketed By: Signature Listing, LLC
center
THE
OF IT ALL Russian-American writer Vera Nazarian had this to say about gathering around the fireplace in a home:
“Snowflakes swirl down gently in the deep blue haze beyond the window. The outside world is a dream. Inside, the fireplace is brightly lit, and the Yule log crackles with orange and crimson sparks. There’s a steaming mug in your hands, warming your fingers. There’s a friend seated across from you in the cozy chair, warming your heart.” Such idyllic scenes are the reasons fireplaces continue to be the design focal point of many modern homes—there’s something undeniably comforting and deeply traditional about them. Whether you opt for wood burning or gas, it is important to consider the design and materials to ensure your fireplace compliments the aesthetic of your home and reflects your desired style. There is nothing like gathering with friends and loved ones around a crackling fire as the weather turns colder, the holidays approach, and we gather indoors with greater regularity. Need a little fireside inspiration? We’ve gathered a collection of gorgeous examples to show just how beautiful a fireplace can be, and how your hearth can become the heart of your home.
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THE NEWEST NEUTRALS INCORPORATING YOUR FIREPLACE DESIGN INTO THE OVERALL STYLE OF YOUR HOME IS EASY WHEN IT’S ALL ABOUT NEUTRALS. LET TEXTURES SHINE WITH A ROUGH HEWN STONE OR PAINTED BRICK.
SLEEK & MODERN CAN SPARK AN INSPIRING HOME DESIGN CRISP MODERN INTERIORS ARE WARMED UP WITH AN INSET FIREPLACE. KEEP YOUR DECOR TO A MINIMUM AND TRULY LET THIS UNIQUE DESIGN TAKE CENTER STAGE.
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RUSTIC AND RICHE A CLASSIC STONE HEARTH THAT COMMANDS ATTENTION IS SOFTENED BY A LIVE EDGE WOOD MANTLE, PAIRED WITH SEATING THAT INVITES YOU TO SETTLE IN WITH A GOOD BOOK.
THE NEWEST NEUTRALS Mini Potted Faux Plants; Amazon Carmel Area Rug; Surya Gold Metal Spheres $17-$22; Amazon Gaston Ottoman $529; Wilhouse Designs Organic Rope Fringe Throw $149; Ballard
MINIMALISM TO THE MAX Color Block Faux Cashmere Throw $37.99; Target Arsenal Area Rug; Surya Tabla Glass Hurricanes $32-$75; West Elm Faux Potted Agave Plant $99; Pottery Barn Fiona Upholstered Bench $1,100; Wilhouse Designs
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Andrea Wilson is the owner of Wilhouse Designs in Huntsville, Al. She obtained her Interior Design degree from UNA, and is proud to have over 14 years’ experience serving the North Alabama area and beyond. Understanding that living in a house and loving your home can be two different things, her goal is to build beautiful, livable spaces that reflect her clients style. At her design studio nestled in South Huntsville, she will bring your project dreams to reality from the early space planning stages all the way to project management and move-in day! Come experience the little details that make Wilhouse Designs, “a place where one is comfortably at ease” I love adding small touches of décor around fireplaces to amplify their coziness. Check out my tips to bring your fireplace from great to fabulous! _
INSIDER TIP: Lanterns and candle sticks will add ambiance to your room. Try using LED flameless candles set to timers so you don’t even have to think about lighting a candle! A COLOR STORY THAT CALMS Plaid Hand-Tufted Wool Area Rug; Overstock.com Floor Lanterns $65.99-$119; Wayfair Terracotta Linen Throw $99; Serena & Lily Simple Antique Bench $1,200; Wilhouse Designs Eucalyptus 24” Wreath $117 Wayfair
A good rug to anchor your space is something you might want to consider adding first. Next, layer in with throws, pillows, and accessories to make your space come together. _
Try adding a pair of benches in front of the fireplace. It not only makes it cozier but also adds extra seating that doesn’t take up too much space. _
A beautiful throw over a chair is a good way to add in color and texture. Try switching them out each season to enhance seasonal colors. _
Faux or real greenery is a go-to of mine when I want a space to feel more special. A small potted plant or faux stems is an inexpensive way to add life to any area of your home. Wilhouse Designs 106 Ben Giles Drive Huntsville, AL 35803 By Appointment @wilhousedesigns wilhousedesigns.com
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
Beauty And Quality For A Lifetime Bringing 20+ years of experience as one of the Nashville area’s top builders to Huntsville, Regent Homes builds townhomes and single-family homes that are beautifully designed and expertly constructed to last a lifetime.
CONTACT: 256.384.5051 to learn about the building process Marketed By: Signature Listing, LLC
So Nice to
Meet You
CHRISTINE ELDER IS A REAL ESTATE EXPERT WHO WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE HOME BUILDING PROCESS.
CHRISTINE ELDER,
between the front elevations of the homes which create some truly stunning streetscapes!
WHEN YOU’RE NOT HELPING OTHERS FIND THEIR DREAM HOME, WHAT ARE YOUR INTERESTS?
New Home Sales, The Village at Oakland Springs
My husband and I love to travel when possible
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO MADISON?
Ireland sometime soon and hike the coastal areas
My husband’s job brought us to the Huntsville/Madison area in 2009. My husband and I met in Boston, lived in Utah for 5 years, and then were transferred here near the end of his active duty career in the Air Force.
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF HELPING SOMEONE FIND OR CREATE THEIR DREAM HOME? One part of the process I truly enjoy is when customers start envisioning where their furniture will be placed, and how they will use a specific space. It’s gratifying to participate in that discussion and suggest some ideas! I also enjoy the process of narrowing down lot choices when future residents are selecting the perfect lot for their new home. There are options for lots with a side-entry garage at the front, or with a traditional back alley setup. Also, identifying the nuances of a specific lot and determining what best suits their lifestyle in terms of location or yard space is key. The direction a lot faces and the amount of natural light it receives throughout the day are also important factors to consider.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF LIFE IN OAKLAND SPRINGS? It’s a very peaceful and calming environment for me here. The beauty of the neighborhood is found not only in the abundant green spaces and common areas but also in the interplay
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and to hike with our dogs. We would love to go to in Donegal, though the dogs would have to stay home. I’m also passionate about helping homeless animals find homes!
RESIDENTS SINCE FEBRUARY 2021, PAUL AND BRIDGETTE FRY, AND HER DAUGHTER, MACKENZIE HAVE SETTLED INTO THEIR NEW HOME AT OAKLAND SPRINGS AND ARE LOVING EVERY MINUTE OF IT! WE CHATTED WITH BRIDGETTE ABOUT WHAT MAKES ‘HOME’ HERE SO SPECIAL.
MEET, THE FRY FAMILY HOW DID YOU AND PAUL DECIDE ON OAKLAND SPRINGS?
and the architect came up with a plan for our home and we started building it.
Bridgette: We knew we wanted to find a place
YOUR HOME IS A CUSTOM BUILD. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPACE IN IT?
in Madison because of the school zone. While
The Kitchen. Our kitchen and living room area
Paul and I were engaged, I’d visit him in Athens, and every time I drove past Oakland Springs. Once we were married, we went for a Sunday drive looking for homes and we went to check out Oakland Springs. We immediately fell in love with the model home there and we bought a lot right then.
HOW WAS THE BUILDING PROCESS?
is all one and we love that area. I really love being at home, now. I’m really a ‘work’ type of person—I love working—but here, I just want to be at home!
HOW ARE YOU LIKING THE OAKLAND SPRINGS LIFESTYLE? We have really gotten into biking. We just recently bought bikes because, the neighborhood
Once we bought the lot, the next week, we
is so uniquely quaint. There’s something really
were talking to Sam Bryan from Jimmy Bryan
special about it because when you drive into
Construction about building our home. Paul
the neighborhood, it’s almost like a time warp,
knew about the company and knew they were
and everything slows down. You see kids playing
a really great builder. We met with Sam and we
outside, people biking or walking… it just takes
talked about what we wanted. From there, he
you to another place when you’re there.
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AN EYE FOR
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Some people spend years searching for their dream home while others are lucky enough to build from the ground up! Rare is the dream-home searcher who can come across a nearly completed home and visualize the final dream. Homeowners Kirt and Stephaney La’Mark weren’t originally looking to buy a home in The Village at Oakland Springs. They weren’t even looking to buy a home in Alabama. The couple moved to Alabama from Texas in 2020 with plans to stay for no longer than two years. Like many of us, Stephaney, a software architect, had spent years compiling ideas and features she wanted in their future dream home. She had collected custom home plans and created a Pinterest page bursting with design and decorating ideas. She and Kirt knew exactly what they wanted. But, as is so often the case, fate had a few surprises
STYLE in store for the house-hunting couple.
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The pair found searching for homes during the pandemic to be difficult, but while they were touring the Village, one home, in particular, caught their eye. The white brick exterior with eye-catching black window frames struck Stephaney as a little unique, and something about the design spoke to the couple’s Louisiana roots. After the initial viewing, Stephaney was not ready to pull the proverbial trigger. Kirt, a principal field engineer, knew how quickly homes were selling in the area and that they didn’t have much time to decide. They knew how competitive the market was here, so they decided to give (the Realtor) some deposit money to buy some time to come to a conclusion. The next day, the La’Marks came back with fresh eyes, and Stephaney was able to see how her inspiration could translate into reality. “The engineer in me is always looking past what I see and focusing on what I can make of this. I started thinking, I can make it mine,” she says with a smile. Kirt agrees, “If the house has 75% of our must haves, we can make the other 25% happen.” The couple purchased the home in April of 2021. At the time, the house was 90% complete, and the builder graciously allowed the new owners to make a few last-minute changes like removing upstairs carpet. Then the creative pair went to work, completing
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Southern Roots Stone, wood & brass co-mingle with the greatest of ease when balanced by a light & airy color palate. The open floorplan of the La’Mark’s home exudes Southern grace & hospitality.
23 projects after closing. For Stephaney, the whole experience is still surreal. “We ended up getting our dream home and we weren’t even planning on staying here.” It’s a rare thing to achieve—to live in a place that you love and reflects who you are, yet the La’Marks seem to have achieved this effortlessly. The gas lanterns added to the front porch intensified the New Orleans feel of the home and speak to the couple’s Creole and West Indies roots. Inside, the home’s interior also leans toward a French/Creole influence and would be right at home in any residence of the French Quarter. It’s a design style that Stephaney noted seems to follow her no matter where she lives, a testament, we think, to how inextricably connected we each are to our culture.
Each Detail Considered A glass door refrigerator and brass detailing throughout the kitchen makes every meal feel a little more luxurious.
The crown jewel of the home is the newly
itself. At the time of writing this piece, the
constructed outdoor living area, bathed
mixed-use space within The Village is under
in white brick and rooted in an intricate
construction. The couple looks forward to
herringbone-patterned brick patio. Again,
using this much-anticipated feature of
there’s no shortage of New Orleans influence
the development! For Kirt, the friendliness
here—from the patio brick to the rustic
of the people living in the community hasn’t
chandelier that replaced a ceiling fan, to
gone unnoticed. “We call everyone here a
the bubbling fountain in the yard. It is
neighbor—from the people who live right
reminiscent of those secret, tucked away
next door to those who live a street away.
alcoves you might spy as you stroll down
Everyone is friendly and welcoming.”
Bourbon Street. It’s a peaceful respite that
Both Stephaney and Kirt are happy to have
invites visitors to sit a spell and stay awhile…
their projects completed and are looking
reading, praying, meditating, or working
forward to celebrating with friends and loved
from home (if you must).
ones in their new home - their dream home,
The love the La’Marks have for their new dream home spills over into the community
this holiday season. Home Builder: The Builders Group
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Bring Nature In
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The soul soothing combination of a water feature and plants create what Stephaney describes as her ‘Zen Space’
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
Dedicated to service and quality Commitment to the customer experience at the highest level is unwavering at Jimmy Bryan Construction. They strive to be under-budget and ahead of schedule with every innovative, elegant home they create. CONTACT: 256.384.5051 to learn about the building process Marketed By: Signature Listing, LLC
SOMETHING EXTRA
IF YOU’VE HAD THE PLEASURE OF DINING AT TOM BROWN’S RESTAURANT, LOCATED IN THE SHOPPES OF MADISON, YOU KNOW THAT THE EXPERIENCE IS A FEAST FOR THE EYES AS WELL AS THE STOMACH. BROWN AND HIS WIFE, ASHLEY, HAVE CREATED A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE THAT LEANS TOWARD ELEVATED-CASUAL DINING, AN AESTHETIC NOT ALWAYS EASY TO ACHIEVE. ASHLEY KNEW SHE WANTED TO CREATE A SPACE THAT BOTH MEN AND WOMEN WOULD LOVE, SOMETHING SHE CERTAINLY ACHIEVED. LUSH VELVET SEATING RESTS BENEATH BREATHTAKING CHANDELIERS, AND BOLD BRASS ACCENTS RUN THROUGHOUT THE SPACE. “THERE ARE DEFINITELY A FEW INSTAGRAM-WORTHY SPOTS IN THE RESTAURANT,” ASHLEY SAYS WITH A SMILE. IT’S UNDENIABLY UPSCALE, YET THE AMBIANCE IS UNQUESTIONABLY RELAXED AND WELCOMING. THE BROWNS HAVE ACHIEVED WHAT IS OFTEN IMPOSSIBLE, CREATING A DINING DESTINATION WHERE GUESTS IN SNEAKERS AND WORKOUT GEAR SIT COMFORTABLY ALONGSIDE THOSE IN SUITS AND COCKTAIL DRESSES.
to none, offering Madison a much-needed fresh seafood option. But Tom says he met some resistance when coming up with his steak and seafood concept. “One thing that was missing from Madison when we arrived was fresh seafood. All the things I loved to eat—clams, oysters, escargot—weren’t available,” says Tom. “And it’s funny that all of the items people said I’d never be able to sell here are actually very popular.” Whether you’ve got a hankering for littleneck clams swimming in a silky garlic and wine broth (served with crusty bread for sopping up every drop of that decadent sauce) or are in the mood for a beautifully marbled ribeye with a broiled lobster tail on the side, the Brown’s have a menu that offers something for everyone. With the holidays right around the corner, you’ll notice a few seasonal changes to the menu, particularly in the cocktail department. Expect to see drinks with flavor profiles that celebrate the season. “We start incorporating ingredients like nutmeg, chocolate, and peppermint into the cocktails in the fall and winter,” says Tom. And if you’re looking for a place to host your company gathering, Ashley says Tom Brown’s is happy to accommodate large parties. Last year, Tom and Ashley celebrated the spirit of the Christmas season by giving every guest who dined with them in the month of December a gift before leaving the restaurant. “Everyone received a “Merry Christmas from Tom Brown’s” envelope that couldn’t be opened until January 1st. Inside were coupons that ranged from free drinks or desserts to entire meals for free.” Guests were floored and returned in droves in January to turn in their gift cards. It’s clear that what matters most to Tom and Ashley are their customers. “We tell ourselves every day we are not in the restaurant business, we’re in the people business,” says Ashley, and their people-first philosophy, along with world-class dishes, has made them one of the top eateries in Madison. If you’re looking for a beautiful place with outstanding food to frequent during the holiday season, stop by Tom Brown’s, where it’s hard to decide what’s better— the food, ambiance, or service…because it’s all spectacular.
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EXPECT TO SEE DRINKS WITH FLAVOR PROFILES CELEBRATING THE SEASON
Speaking of dining, the food at Tom Brown’s is second
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
Creating homes and communities VTS Homes has mastered the art of designing and building exceptional houses that become ‘home.’ Their Core Purpose of providing a higher quality of life through the communities and homes they create means they care deeply about every client they serve. CONTACT: 256.384.5051 to learn about the building process Marketed By: Signature Listing, LLC
EXPLORE NEW
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FRONTIERS PHOTOGRAPHY: RICHARD MELTON
If you’re new to the area and haven’t been to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, or if you’ve lived here your entire life and believe the center is just a place to visit when company comes into town, you’re missing an opportunity to experience one of the gems of Huntsville. The center is a veritable treasure trove of space artifacts and is one of the largest museums of its kind in the world. Situated next door to the NASA Marshall facility and only 10 minutes from downtown Huntsville, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center teaches adults and children alike about space flight and the history of space exploration. Within the main exhibit area, you’ll enjoy permanent installations showcasing over 1,500 space artifacts. Here you’ll find the largest display of space memorabilia found anywhere in the world, and there are plenty of rides, simulators, and interactive experiences that will capture the imaginations of young and old alike.
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EVEN IF YOU’VE VISITED THE CENTER BEFORE, THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW TO SEE. BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE HIGHLIGHTS: THE DAVIDSON CENTER FOR SPACE EXPLORATION The latest addition to the center holds a massive exhibit—a full size prototype Saturn V rocket, the same rocket used to transport astronauts to the moon. There’s also plenty to learn about NASA Marshall and the Apollo program here.
ROCKET PARK & SHUTTLE PARK Both areas are found outdoors and are home to an impressive collection of U.S. army missiles and NASA rockets. You’ll also find an impressive recreation of Tranquility Base, the lunar destination of Apollo 11.
ATTRACTIONS & SIMULATIONS The center has several interactive attractions and simulators that are sure to engage visitors. Some experiences are limited to visitors who meet certain height, weight, and/or age restrictions, so be sure to visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center website at www.rocketcenter.com to learn more about requirements.
It is important to note—some attractions and simulations cost an additional fee. Check the center website to find out what attractions are included in the cost of your general admission ticket.
ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE: MOON SHOT Experience the feeling of rocketing 140 feet in the air in 2.5 seconds, 2 - 3 seconds of weightlessness at the apex of the ride, then a 1 G freefall.
SEA TREK This fully guided underwater walking experience allows participants aged 10 years and up to wear specialized diving helmets, allowing them to breathe normally while underwater.
I.D.E.A.S. LAB Held every Friday and Saturday, this entertaining educational experience is perfect for young scientists from 9 – 12 years of age. Kids enjoy learning about the universe during this hands-on learning lab, and the topics change each month, ensuring there’s always something new to learn. General admission for the center is $25 for those ages 13 and up, and $17 for kids ages 5 – 12 years. Children 4 and under may enter for free. If you’ve never been (or even if you have been but perhaps it’s been a while), plan a visit to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. It truly is one of the gems of Huntsville— and you’ll be amazed at the new wonders it has to offer.
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BUILDER LOOKBOOK
BUILDER LOOKBOOK
Elegant homes, a legacy of success 50+ years of experience, honesty and integrity go into every home constructed by The Builders Group. Just as the foundation of the home serves as its primary support system, these principles are the foundation of The Builders Group.
CONTACT: 256.384.5051 to learn about the building process Marketed By: Signature Listing, LLC
picky
GET
For many, heading to an orchard or farm with the family is a long-held tradition, especially in the fall. Picking ripe fruit
straight from the tree or bush makes your holiday treats taste that much sweeter.
And the act of picking is something family members of all ages can enjoy, making it the perfect day-trip activity for your
own family or when guests come to town. There’s something indescribable about walking through farm rows and harvesting your own produce. It hearkens back to a simpler time and feels just as natural as breathing. And no one can tell us that desserts made with store-bought fruit taste as good as those made with fruit grown right here in Alabama—such words are heresy, and we will not have it. No, we stand by the statement that foods made with local ingredients packed with all the love farmers in Alabama have to offer just taste better. So, make time this fall to visit some of your local growers. Your desserts…and your heart…will be all the better for it.
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goodPICKIN’ SCOTT’S ORCHARD
2163 Scott Road, Hazel Green, AL
Located in Hazel Green, AL, Scott’s Orchard offers u-pick apples in the fall. Plan to visit the first the week in October—that’s when they have the largest variety of apples available. If you’re curious how farms work, be sure to sign up for a farm tour.
GIN HOUSE BRANCH FARM
1579 Bethel Road South, Decatur, AL September and October are prime months for muscadine grapes. Head to Gin House in Decatur to pick your own and make some outstanding jelly or wine.
CROW MOUNTAIN ORCHARD 6236 County Road 39, Fackler, AL
Homemade Cider is pressed beginning in September with proprietor Bob Deutscher’s secret recipe. Over 15 varities of apples.
STEELE ORCHARD
1695 County Road 1141, Cullman, AL Come for the apples (over 20 varities) leave with a car full of cider, jam, homemade ice cream & Southern fried pies! Oh my!
BILL’S HONEY FARM
8714 Moores Mill Road, Meridianville, AL Be sure to call ahead and make and reserve your seat for Bill’s honey harvesting class (usually held in October/November) to watch a honey harvesting session in Meridianville. Don’t forget to pick up honey for yourself while you’re there.
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CARAMELIZED APPLE HAND PIES 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 package (14.1 ounces)
3 medium apples, peeled and
refrigerated pie pastry
finely chopped
TOPPING:
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup coarse sugar
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons unsalted
1 teaspoon lemon juice
butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla ice cream, optional
In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add apples; cook and stir 5 minutes. Mix brown sugar, cornstarch and cinnamon; add to apples. Cook and stir 7-8 minutes longer or until apples begin to soften and caramelize. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and vanilla. Cool completely. Preheat oven to 400°. On a lightly floured surface, unroll pastry sheets. Roll to 1/8-in. thickness; cut four 5-in. circles from each sheet. Place about 3 tablespoons filling on one half of each circle. Moisten pastry edges with water. Fold pastry over filling. Press edges with a fork to seal or, if desired, pinch edges to seal and flute. Transfer to greased baking sheets. Prick tops of pastry with a fork. Bake until golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks. For topping, mix sugar and cinnamon. Brush pies with melted butter; sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature. If desired, top with ice cream. RECIPE FROM: TasteOfHome.com
&
LIVE WORK
Enjoy the convenience of blending living and office space. • Elegant architectural details • Spacious, bright floor plans • In the heart of the Village Built by Jimmy Bryan, these Live Work properties are the very best of everything. Contact Village at Oakland Springs to see floor plans, pricing and more.
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Marketed By: Signature Listing, LLC
COMPLETION: JUNE ‘22
COMPLETION: APRIL ‘22
AVAILABLE HOMES
The Sumter
Parker Place
132 Lombard Street 3,692 sqft, 3 bed/2.5 bath
COMPLETION: JULY ‘21
COMPLETION: JUNE ‘22
129 Bur Oak Drive 2,453 sqft, 3 bed/2.5 bath
Abby Ridge II
SOLD | The Virginia
119 Lombard Street 2,106 sqft, 3 bed/2.5 bath
COMPLETION: MAY ‘21
COMPLETION: FEBRUARY ‘22
113 Bur Oak Drive 1,704 sqft, 3 bed/2 bath
SOLD | The Chapman
SOLD | Rosewood Place
115 Bur Oak Drive 2,080 sqft, 3 bed/2.5 bath
126 Oak Manor Lane 4,429 sqft, 5 bed/5 bath
Visit us! Meet our Oakland Springs experts, tour the Village, view floor plans, see homesites, and discover the beautiful possibilities! 256.384.5051
www.VillageAtOaklandSprings.com
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256-603-1038 NMLS# 65084 Hometown Lenders, Inc. is an Equal Housing Lender. | NMLS #842588 Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection & Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act 41DBO-60614 | NMLS# 65084
Hometown Lenders, Inc. | 350 The Bridge Street, Suites 116, 200 & 202, Huntsville, AL 35806
FRONT PORCH
Mini-Seeions
October 23 + November 13 $235 -- 15 minute session + 5 digital images of your choice Sessions are limited! Contact melissa@melissajill.com to reserve your spot today!
RECIPE FOR LUXURY: SMART KITCHEN APPLIANCES A good cook feels a connection to
on your mobile device. No more wondering what’s already in
the food they prepare. From fresh,
the fridge and what you need to pick up at the market. Appliance
local produce and unique spice
apps can also give you flexibility and complete control of features
blends to a special family recipe
that used to require digging out the ‘manual’ to figure out—
from generations past. A good
like changing a fridge drawer to freezer space with the swipe
kitchen is where culinary joys can
of your phone.
flourish—whether it’s an elaborate gourmet feast for guests or a
Bluetooth-enabled vent hoods automatically turn on the
lunchbox PB&J for someone very
fan and can adjust its speed to perfectly accommodate the heat
special. It’s no wonder, then, that
coming from the cooktop. Huntsville-based tech expert, Chris
connectivity takes center stage in
Groves of FoxView Technology, specializes in prepping homes
today’s gourmet kitchens.
during construction for peak performance on move-in. “We design and install cables that put powerful wifi capabilities in place,” says
Connecting appliances to your phone
Chris. This means that everywhere in the home is suited for
via wifi opens a new level of control
smart appliances and has the wifi and connectivity they require.
and convenience in the kitchen.
With powerful wifi off the worry list, homeowners can focus on
Consider the refrigerator: cameras
the deliciously fun parts of creating a new kitchen: choosing
can capture a photo when the door
the dream appliances, colors, materials, and finishes that
closes so you see what’s inside right
suit their tastes perfectly.
54 www.VillageAtOaklandSprings.com
Once you’ve found it, you know you’re home. Banking and mortgage loans are the same way. At ServisFirst Bank, we offer a range of banking and mortgage products that are as varied as our clients’ tastes in homes. Each offers a competitive rate and our exceptional service. Perhaps that’s why homeowners feel so settled in once they find us. Downtown Banking Center 401 Meridian Street, Suite 100 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.722.7800 Research Park Banking Center 1267 Enterprise Way, Suite A Huntsville, AL 35806 256.722.7880 Cindy LeBlanc Vice President, Mortgage Lending 256.722.7821 | cleblanc@servisfirstbank.com NMLS ID: 776271 AT L A N TA • B I R M I N G H A M • C H A R L E S T O N • D O T H A N • H U N T S V I L L E • M O B I L E M O N TG O M E RY • N A S H V I L L E • P E N S A C O L A • N O RT H W E S T F L O R I D A • W E S T C E N T R A L F L O R I D A
M ember FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
VISUALIZE YOUR DREAM HOME BEFORE IT BECOMES A REALITY.
A R C H I T E C T U R A L R E N D E R I N G S T H AT BRING THE DREAM TO LIFE
w w w. r e d e a r t h r e n d e r i n g s . c o m
hearth VILLAGE AT OAKLAND SPRINGS
Hearth is a biannual publication celebrating the unique lifestyle of The Village at Oakland Springs, a truly authentic traditional neighborhood and community. To learn more about living at The Village at Oakland Springs, visit their information center which is open Mon.-Fri. 10am-5pm Saturday 11am-5pm Sunday 1pm-5pm. VillageAtOaklandSprings.com
PUBLISHED BY RED EARTH PUBLISHING
John Pinter, Executive Editor Tara Weymouth, Creative Director & Design
FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY
Melissa Jill Photography, cover, pages 1, 3, 4, 5, 18, 19, 20-30, 58 & back cover
For information about advertising in Hearth, contact: tara@redearthmarketing.com 347.342.8797
Hearth is a publication of Red Earth Marketing. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved in all countries. Red Earth Marketing has endeavored to ensure the accuracy of this publication; however, we cannot be responsible for misinformation or typographical errors. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Red Earth Marketing does not necessarily agree with the viewpoints expressed by authors or advertising copy.
Dream Home is just aroud Your
the corner
There’s so much to discover about living at The Village at Oakland Springs. Our team is passionate about sharing Village life and every wonderful thing it entails—charming neighborhoods, our connected pedestriancentered design, and, of course, the home you and your family have been dreaming of. Visit us at our information center and we can introduce you to the lifestyle, the homes, and the joy of The Village at Oakland Springs. Contact us to plan your tour today!
Open Seven Days a Week Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5pm Saturday 11am - 5pm Sunday 1pm - 5pm 256.384.5051