happy holidays December 2010
ASID designtexasawards gulf coast
A
U
S
T
I
N
1214 W E S T 6 T H S T R E E T, AUS T I N , T X 78703 • PHON E : 512 .476 . 2121 • FA X : 512 .476 . 212 3 • W W W. K R E I S S .C OM
From contemporary to traditional, designs become extraordinary with windows and doors custom built to your specifications and crafted with the detail that only superior worksmanship can achieve.
gr a nd openings i nc windows
Kolbe
&
d o o rs
Crittall Architectural Traditions Western Fleetwood H Window BiltBest
Dallas 214 956 7700
Austin 512 989 9400 www.grandopenings.com
Molaro
Houston 713 742 5050
contents
November/December 2010 COVER STORY Christmas, Chateau-style 46 Dallas designer brings the holidays home in grand style for this Fort Worth family FEATURES Dressed to Impress 56 Each year, this Texas home gets a seasonal upgrade that takes it from beautiful to breathtaking
.
Christmas Miracle Workers 64
2
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Experience the soothing sensation reminiscent of Mother Nature with this overhead showering panel. The WaterTile® Rain panel has four, 54-nozzle, fully-adjustable sprayheads to adapt to a variety of installation options.
Tranquility
bkshowplace.com
Life serene. Give your family the spa treatment with a little help from The Bath & Kitchen Showplace. We offer bath and kitchen plumbing fixtures, hardware and accessories made to transform your view of what a bathroom can be. Visit our showroom for personalized attention from our experienced consultants to transform your home into a place of tranquility. At The Bath & Kitchen Showplace, we’re putting the life in style.
Austin 8740 Shoal Creek Blvd. 512.454.4619
Dallas 2910 N. Stemmons Freeway 972.329.0387
Houston 10005 W. Sam Houston Parkway N. 832.237.8200
Humble 1002 N. Houston Ave. 281.446.7131
Marble Falls 2515 Commerce Street 830.693.1023
San Antonio 5919 West Campus Drive 210.342.9771
Tomball 14627 FM 2920 November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living 281.351.1005
3
46 contents
Afternoon Tea: Texas Style 20 Book Notes: Je Ne Sais Quoi 24
24 56
French Impressions by Betty Lou Phillips Antiques: Antique Angels 30 ASID Texas Gulf Coast Chapter 2010 Awards 38 Holiday Recipes 78 On the Town 80
in every issue
design resources
8 Welcome
36 Antiques Guide
10 Reader Services
70 Design Texas
12 Events: Holiday Season
76 Retirement Living 79 Kitchen & Bath
4
Cover photography by Geno Loro. This page clockwise from top left: Courtesy of Betty Lou Phillips Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010 (French Impressions); By Geno Loro; By Ruda Anderson, RUDA Photography ©2010.
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
5
VOL. 4 NO. 6 Associate Publisher Brona Stockton Contributing Writers Lauren Churchin Barbara P. Crozier Jessica Dupuy Jack Frink Suzanna Logan Nancy Myers Photographers Ruda Anderson, RUDA Photography Tre Dunham Geno Loro Kevin H. Marple Art Director Kim Worley Advertising Executives Dallas Suzanne Gosselin (214) 351-6071 • suzanneg@pcinews.com Dallas • Houston Kim Lawhorn (214) 384-9417 • kiml@pcinews.com Austin • San Antonio Dennis Carter (512) 637-0371 • dennisc@pcinews.com Subscriptions Beth Chorba (512) 637-0344 Accounting Manager Alicia Glover Web and Network Manager Jim Hall Publications & Communications, Inc. President Gary L. Pittman
DESIGN • FABRICS • TRIMMINGS FURNITURE • ANTIQUES • ACCESSORIES 5417 West Lovers Lane – Dallas 214-357-0888 rutherfordsdesign.com
6
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Texas Home & Living (ISSN 1091-5001) is published bimonthly by Publications & Communications, Inc., Gary L. Pittman, President, 13581 Pond Springs Road, Suite 450, Austin, TX 78729, 512-250-9023. Subscriptions are available for $18 per year; single copy price is $5.00. Payment must accompany orders. Copyright ©2010 by Publications & Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without written consent from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Postmaster: Send change of address to TH&L Circulation Dept., 13581 Pond Springs Road, Suite 450, Austin, TX 78729
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
7
Welcome
Another year is almost at its close, so what better way to end it than with an issue dedicated to the spirit of the holidays? This holiday season, whether you are staying close to home, spending time with loved ones, sharing old traditions or starting new ones – these are the things that make the season memorable. In keeping with the holiday spirit, Barbara P. Crozier shares the beauty and allure of an angel of antiquity in “Antique Angels” (page 30). Her passion will make you look at angels in a different light. Dallas-based interior designer John Phifer Marrs shares his “design job of a lifetime” in “Christmas, Chateau-style” (page 46). Marrs incorporates the holiday décor in this palatial French-inspired chateau for a Fort Worth family who love living and entertaining on a grand scale. But most importantly, the home and holiday finery are priceless reflections of the homeowners, their style and their generosity. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or both, remember to honor the spirit of the holidays in your own special way with the people you love. Happy Holidays!
Brona Stockton Associate Publisher
8
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Patina Green
Home and Market 116 N. Tennessee, Suite 102 on the historic square of downtown McKinney, TX
972-548-9141 www.patinagreen.typepad.com
Reader Services SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe or to purchase back issues of the magazine, please call (800) 6789724 ext. 344 or e-mail subscriptions@ pcinews.com. For more information, please visit texashomeandliving.com and click on the Subscribe link.
ADVERTISING INFORMATION If you are interested in advertising in Texas Home & Living magazine, please contact one of our account executives: AustinSan Antonio, Dennis Carter, (512) 637-0371, dennisc@pcinews.com; Dallas, Suzanne Gosselin, (214) 351-6071, suzanneg@pcinews. com; Dallas-Houston, Kim Lawhorn, (214) 384-9417, kiml@pcinews.com
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Designers, architects, developers, builders and homeowners are encouraged to submit photography of their completed projects for editorial consideration. If you have a project or story idea to submit, please e-mail ideas@texashomeandliving.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS Texas Home & Living would like to hear about your organization’s upcoming event. Events having to do with design, architecture, visual arts, performing arts, family activities and dining are the most likely to be included in our calendars. Please e-mail press releases or event listings at least two months in advance to ideas@texashomeandliving.com.
10
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Y o u r T i b e Ta n s a r e H e r e Exquisite antique and modern rugs for discriminating tastes. S e r v i c e s i n c l u d e w a s h , r e p a i r, i n s t a l l a t i o n a n d a p p r a i s a l .
Pride of Persia Rug Co.
Mehdi Abedi, Ph.D. Lisa Slappey, Ph.D.
S howroom in the h ouSton D eSign C enter 7026 Old Katy Rd., Ste. 164 • Houston, TX 77024 • 713-522-7870 www.prideofpersia.com Appointments recommended.
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
11
events holiday season November 4-7 – Waco – The Junior League of Waco is proud to present 2010’s premier shopping event at the annual Deck the Halls Gift Market. The Waco Convention Center will be the home of “A Vintage Christmas,” featuring the thrill of early holiday shopping with merchants offering accessories, jewelry, clothing, gourmet food, toys and more. Lunch and live entertainment is hosted throughout each day at the Café Sweet. Waco Convention Center. Jlwaco.org. (254) 753-5574. November 6 – Austin – Join Animal Lovers of Austin, Inc. in the 2nd Street District for Barkitecture Austin, 2010. Enjoy a silent auction of designer dog houses, a FasHound Show, spectacular shopping and a full day of fun. Free and open to the public. This annual event will host Austin’s best architects, builders and designers who created/built/donated some of the most unique and beautiful dog houses to date. All funds from the auction will benefit four local Austin animal rescue groups: Blue Dog Rescue, Austin Dog Rescue, Wee
12
Rescue and Austin Pets Alive. austinbarkitecture.com. (512) 476-5050.
November 13 – Marble Falls – Texasbased artist Rusty Jones was driving back to his home in McKinney, Texas from Austin and noticed how the setting sun was hitting and reflecting hayfields and livestock so the whole landscape became a “wonder world of colors.” That was the inspiration for the 35 on 35 Exhibit at the Riverbend Fine Art Gallery. From 6 to 9 p.m., visitors can see 35 paintings along Interstate Highway 35 – traversing Dallas to San Antonio – that have been incorporated for celebrating the great state of Texas. Riverbend Fine Art Gallery. riverbendfineart.com. (830) 693-6632.
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
November 17-21 – Austin – The Junior League of Austin is getting into the 2010 holiday fundraising season with Enchanted: A Christmas Affair 2010. At $12 per guest (children under five are free of charge), the annual celebration features Market Days sponsored by IBC Bank. The five days are filled with fun fundraisers like a fashion show for teens and tweens, brunch and private shopping, a gingerbread house workshop, Reindeer Games, Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop and more. Palmer Events Center. jlaustin.org. (512) 467-8982, EXT. 245. November 18 – Dallas – The Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) celebrates the annual Holiday Wreath Collection from 6-9 p.m. at The Tower Residences at The Ritz-Carlton. The celebration includes residences designed by Jan Showers, Carlton Varney and Laura Hunt. DIFFA trustees Carol Hatton and Ed Hill co-chair the popular event which raises funds for AIDS service organizations in North Texas. Designer, lifestyle expert
Austin – The Village at Westlake, 360 @ Bee Cave Rd., 512.330.9766 Houston – 2401 Bissonnet, 713.524.3171 Beaumont – Westmont Shopping Center, 6430 Phelan Rd., 409.866.3171 November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
13
events holiday season and HGTV host Monica Pederson will act as honorary chair. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres by Wolfgang Puck while bidding in a silent auction on more than 60 wreaths for holiday and all occasions. The Tower Residences at the Ritz. diffadallas.org. (214) 748-8580.
Believes in Opportunity.
Many investors believe that the decline in home values has resulted in the opportunity to acquire residential properties for investment, but financing is difficult to find. We are committed to our communities and now have available a specific loan product for investors in single family, duplex, triplex and fourplex residential properties. Terms are very competitive. Call one of our lenders in any of our many markets to assist you. Purchase of property Refinance of existing properties is acceptable Only applies to non-owner occupied properties Multiple properties
CONVENIENT LOCATIONS Arlington 817.472.1910
Las Colinas 214.242.1900
Austin 512.482.6000
North Dallas 214.242.1900
Cedar Park 512.482.6050
Preston Center 214.242.1900
Fort Worth - Downtown 817.472.1940
Richardson 214.242.1900
Fort Worth - TCU 817.472.1940
Southlake 817.472.1930
www.banksovereign.com Member FDIC 14
November 18 - December 31 – Gruene – With the holiday season quickly approaching, the Gruene Historic District is announcing Holidays in Gruene, a festive six-week celebration full of special events. This holiday season, featured performers at Gruene Hall will include Roger Creager, Joe Ely, Reckless Kelly, Willie Nelson, Los Lobos, Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison Christmas Show, Cory Morrow, Jerry Jeff Walker, Cody Canada – Full Band and Charlie Robison. On November 18th, Gruene Hall will host KNBT 92.1 Radio New Braunfels’ 4th Annual Thanks and Giving Concert which benefits the S.O.S. Food Bank of New Braunfels and offers a discounted cover charge discount with donation of a canned food product. Gruene Historic District once again will feature Photos with Cowboy Kringle, Gruene’s own brand of Santa, who will be available for photos with visitors during Old Gruene Market Days on November 20-21, Thanksgiving weekend and the first three weekends in December. Old Gruene Market Days feature more than 100 vendors offering uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. A portion of photography and kids workshop proceeds benefit Communities in Schools of South Central Texas. Gruene Historic District. holidaysInGruene.com. November 20 – Austin – Central Texas holiday shoppers can get into the holiday spirit with a full day of festivities at The Domain for The Domain Lighting of the Great Tree. Shoppers will enjoy live music, children’s activities, special in-store events and more. The day culminates with the lighting of the Great Tree and holiday fireworks. Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison are set to headline the free event at 6 p.m. The Domain. thedomainaustin.com. (512) 873-8099.
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
November 26 – Boerne, Burnet, Dripping Springs, Fredericksburg, Goldthwaite, Johnson City, Llano, Marble Falls, New Braunfels, Wimberley – The holiday season isn’t complete without the famous Hill Country Christmas Lighting Trail lighting the skies. The area’s most celebrated family holiday tradition, the Trail features 10 communities offering special events during the holiday season. Guests are invited to view the community’s festive lighting displays from the comfort of the vehicles or by strolling the sidewalks. Most activities are free or have minimal cost. Stores keep longer hours during the holidays, and visitors are welcome to shop, dine and sightsee. www.tex-fest.com. (1-866) TEX-FEST (1-866-839-3378). November 26-28, December 3-5 – San Antonio – Ballet San Antonio and The San Antonio Symphony present The Nutcracker. Tickets are currently on sale through the Symphony Box office, any TicketMaster outlet or www.ticketmaster. com. Majestic Theater. balletsanantonio. org. (210) 404-BSAA (2722). December 3-5, 10-24 – Dallas – Bring in the holiday season with Ben Stevenson and the Texas Ballet Theater’s critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker. Stunning costumes, dazzling sets and remarkable dancing to holiday music by Tchaikovsky make The Nutcracker a favorite family tradition. The December 3-5 performances will be held at Winspear Opera House, while the dates from December 10-24 will be at Bass Performance Hall. texasballettheater.org. (877) 828-9200. December 4 – Austin – The Austin Humane Society’s largest fundraiser (and most exciting party) of the year, the glamorous Rags2Wags Gala is the ultimate
16
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
17
events holiday season pet fashion show, featuring A-list Austin celebrities at the celebrated Four Seasons hotel in downtown Austin. The theme is Austin Goes Hollywood, so make sure to keep your look out for pawparazzi and celebrities like Brad Pitbull and Sarah Jessica Barker! The Four Seasons Hotel, Austin. ragstowags.org. (512) 685-0128.
Susie Johnson Interior Design
ASID Design Excellence Award Winning Design
susiejohnson.com 2808 Bee Cave Road Austin, TX 78746 Phone 512-328-9642
December 4-23 – Austin – A holiday tradition returns as Texas’ long-running production of The Nutcracker takes the stage for its 48th year. Featuring chor e o g r a phy by Stephen Mills and, of course, the u n f o r g e ttable music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The Long Center. balletaustin.org/ atb/nutcracker.php. (512) 476-2163. December 7 – Houston - The Houston Design Center bring you the latest and the best in with their annual Holiday Tabletop Event. Participating are the nations top luxury dealers including Neiman Marcus, Baccarat, Christolphe, Lalique and Twins Christmas. Join the Houston Design Center for informative lectures on the creation of these tabletops in participating design showrooms. thehoustondesigncenter.com.
ADELE HUNT’S EUROPEAN COLLECTIBLES 1007 Slocum Steet in the Dallas Design District
214.651.7542 www.adelehunt.com 18
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Est. 1946
December 7 – Austin – The Austin Symphony, with guest conductor David Stevens, will bring George Frederic Handel’s Messiah to the Riverbend Centre. Messiah is one of the greatest musical masterpieces of all time, and very possibly the greatest work ever written in England. It is also, in all probability, the most performed work in the history of classical music. In virtually every city of the free world Messiah is performed at least once every year. Riverbend Centre. austinsymphony.org. (512) 476-6064. TH&L
Afternoon Tea: Texas Style
E
Text by Jack Frink Photography by Kevin Marple
Everyone loves the holidays. Everyone also loves holiday sweets. The Ritz-Carlton Luxury Hotel in Dallas is getting into the spirit of the season with a series of confectionary celebrations jointly known as
The Cupcake Tea at the Ritz-Carlton. On November 28, December 5, 12 and 19, the Ritz will offer a new addition to its customary Sunday afternoon tea experience. “Cupcake tea is a contemporary take on traditional afternoon tea, with a flight of
mini-cupcakes replacing petit fours and other sweets,” says Bonnie Crail, spokesperson for The Ritz-Carlton. “What changes it up even more is that the cupcake flavors are all Texas-appropriate and we’re offering it for the holidays.”
20
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Designer Holiday Tabletops December 7-10 Open House 7026 Old Katy Road Houston, TX 77024
www.thehoustondesigncenter.com
The 58Th AnnuAl TheTA ChAriTy AnTiques show
Over 50 of the most notable antiques dealers from the United States and Europe Thursday, november 18th through sunday, november 21st
Gala Preview Party Wednesday, November 17th 7 pm - 10 pm
Appraisal Day Saturday, November 20th 11 am - 3 pm
George r. Brown Convention Center houston, Texas Four-day admission $10. Tickets available at the door and online. Valet parking available.
Forum Speakers t h u r s day
f r i day
s a t u r day
Barry Dixon Barry Dixon Interiors
Doris Athineos Senior Art and Antiques Editor for Traditional Home
Mike Clark Collectors Firearms
Antiques 101 An Education for the New Collector Saturday, 5 pm - 7 pm, Cost $10
22 Texas Texas Home Home && Living Living •• September/October November/December 2010 2010
www.ThetaAntiquesShow.com
“The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas offers tea every holiday season, but this year we wanted to introduce something fresh, with the ability to highlight the amazing pastry flavors of Texas,” says Crail. “It’s the first time for cupcakes.” The price for admission is $28 and the Tea will be presented in The Lobby Lounge at 2 and 4 p.m. on the designated holiday season Sunday. The cupcake flavors will vary based on season. Thanks to Crail and the Ritz-Carlton, citizens of Big D have a delicious treat waiting for them on Sundays. “The real special thing is the flavors,” Crail says. “As an example, here are the flavors for tea served on Halloween: Go Longhorns (citrus and burnt sugar cake with orange buttercream and tangerine marmalade), Texas Pecan Italian Cream (pecan sponge cake with coconut cream and cream cheese icing), Don’t-Mess-With-Chocolate (Devil’s food sponge cake with truffle cream and fudge icing), Red Velvet (red velvet sponge cake with cream cheese icing), and Peach Cobbler (vanilla sponge cake with roasted peaches and cinnamon streusel).” Crail remembers the events leading up to the idea. “We had already designed a unique new event for brides and bridal showers, called Wedding Cake Tea, which features decorated mini-wedding cake bites. Additionally, we had seen the trend for cupcakes throughout the country – but none of the offerings were unique to Texas. An evolution into a really fun Afternoon Tea, Texas-Style, was a natural for the holidays.”
When pressed on her favorite cupcake, Crail says it has to be the peach cobbler. “Fearing’s Restaurant, which is located at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, uses Texas peaches in a dessert, and using this wonderful taste in a cupcake is such a great idea. It tastes glorious. “Uptown Dallas is full of life during the holiday season,” Crail concludes. “The decorations, shoppers and energy of the season make it an exceptional time for the city, as do some of the meaningful arts and family programs which take place here during the holidays. Texas has a way of celebrating occasions that is truly memorable, whether for festive, spiritual, sports or cultural reasons. This is a season of real vibrancy.” For more information on The Ritz-Carlton in Dallas during the holiday season, go to ritzcarlton.com or call (214) 922-0200. TH&L
T h e Difference Is ...
By Interiors, Design Inc.
Award-Winning Design Firm Visit our Idea Center: 5629 FM 1960 Rd. West, Ste. 113, Houston, TX 77069 | 281-587-8755 | www.bydesigninteriors.com
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
23
Je Ne Sais Quoi
W
French Impressions by betty lou phillips Text by Jack Frink
“When I was 12 years old, our family traveled to Washington, DC,” recalls Dallas-based designer, author and tastemaker Betty Lou Phillips. “One of our stops was the Library of Congress. There, the
docent pointed out the card catalog. Right then, I decided I’d write a children’s book so I could be in one of those drawers.”
Phillips stuck with her childhood dreams and is now enjoying the publication and
popularity of her 10th design book, French Impressions. A self-styled “interpreter of 24
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Reflect Your Own Personal Style
The Kitchen Source 1544 Slocum Street Dallas, Texas 75207 214-741-1912
The Kitchen Source 3116 W. 6th Street Fort Worth, Texas 76107 817-731-4299
www.thekitchensource.net
For your home. For your life. For our environment.
Hudson Valley by Wood-Mode. November/December 2010 • Texas Home & ©2010 Living Wood-Mode, 25 Inc.
book notes
Discovery
Architectural Antiques AN ECLECTIC INVENTORY OF ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS ❧ Antique Beams ❧ Large Inventory of Antique Doors ❧ Antique Door Hardware ❧ Flooring ❧ Beaded Wood ❧ Quality Stained Glass ❧ Clawfoot Tubs, Sinks, Lighting, Ceiling Tin and more
409 St. Francis, Gonzales, Texas 78629 830-672-2428 www.discoverys.net • swk@discoverys.net
Open Tues. - Sat., 9 - 5:00 JUST ARRIVED: Beautiful hand hewn antique wood beams.
Give the gift of Texas Enjoy a one year subscription for only $18 Call 800.678.9724 x344 or visit texashomeandliving.com 26
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Inspired by characters from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, Limoges porcelain firm Bernardaud send a happy holiday message via toy soldiers, wooden horses and Christmas trees on “Grenadiers” dinner service. In France, water and wine goblets meet directly above each plate, rather than above the knife and spoon, as in the States.
French taste,” Phillips is the author of a number of books dissecting, discussing and celebrating the lifestyle and high culture of France. “I’ve long been enamored with the works of the Impressionist artists: Renoir, Monet, Manet, Pissarro and more,” says Phillips, describing her inspiration for the book. “They were rebelling against the art establishment by looking anew at France’s charming villages, flourishing gardens, early bridges, as well as the country’s railway stations, cathedrals and cafes. Living on this side of the Atlantic means having the freedom to express our individual taste so we can put our own artistic spin on French style. The result is French Impressions with its iterations, or different versions, of French design.” Phillips continues, “Like many Americans, I am struck by the flair of the French – and why not? With their self-assured approach to design and mesmerizing way of projecting a rich cultural heritage with matchless sophistication, their homes exude timeless grandeur that never wanes. There’s a certain je ne sais quoi or indefinable something that is set in the classical splendor of France that eludes easy definition; perhaps because of its artistry, its attitude, its style and far more. It’s a virtuous mix of panache and simplicity, taste and
Every Floor is a Carpet • Hardwood • Laminate • Tile
Stone • Vinyl • Area Rugs
On Sale Now! Style: Versailles | Color: Hickory Suede
Available at these fine Abbey Carpet & Floor Showrooms Visit TexasHome.BuyAbbey.com to discover specials for Texas Home & Living Readers Allen
S & H Flooring Outlet
214-383-1144 111 North Central Expressway Suite #119
Grapevine
The Floor Club
817-912-3299 850 South Dooley #100
Austin
Abbey Designer Floors 512-263-3333 3841 RR 620 S. (Galleria Mall Area)
Houston
S & H Distributing 281-444-4733 2202 FM 1960 West
Dallas
Dallas
S & H Distributing
The Floor Club
Katy
San Antonio
214-638-3311 8717 Directors Row
Exquisite Abbey Carpet & Floor 281-693-6464 1420 S. Mason Rd.
972-241-9036 4501 Alpha Rd. #110
O’Krent’s Abbey Flooring Center 210-227-7387 2075 N. Loop 1604 East (at Gold Canyon)
book notes
As the holidays approach, this maison takes a minimalist approach, much like the broad, tree-lines ChampsElysees, which gleams with lights. In French homes, trees often remain lit until the Feast of the Epiphany, which is the 12th day after Christmas and the religious observance of the three kings visiting the infant Jesus. Here, Fraser firs glisten thanks to the efforts of designer, Raegan McKinney at Todd Events, Dallas. 28
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
resourcefulness that is at once inviting, surprising and inspiring.” Phillips, a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers, has filled French Impressions with lovely photos of upscale, French-styled houses and rooms. But that is not all. In between the details of the exquisite living spaces, Phillips has interspersed choice nuggets of wisdom. For instance, the bedroom was the choice place for high-level business meetings until Madame de Pompadour removed the room – or the “chambre” – from the list of public rooms in the 18th century. Now the bedroom is seen as the height of personal privacy. Also, if someone invites you to dinner at 8 p.m., it is expected that you should arrive 15 minutes after 8. The book is filled with charming tangents like that. Phillips truly loves her work and sees seemingly infinite ways to keep the centuries-old design and living strategies relevant for today’s homemaker. She says that “imitation is now decidedly last century. I truly hope the glossy images will be inspiring – as they are meant to be translated across all price points. Ideas such as writing on walls, fabrics, furniture, bedding and towels can work regardless of one’s budget, much like a dose of color on a pillow, wherever, that brings pizzazz to a room or glazing that creates the patina of age.” Phillips says her favorite part of creating French Impressions “definitely wasn’t writing captions. Because I like to include a bit of history yet shy away from repeating the text, I find captions difficult to write.” “I loved writing ‘A Taste for Paris,’” Phillips affirms, talking about the book’s section on table and eating – or, rather, dining – manners. “Many French project an egalitarian image, yet Parisians especially have ‘attitude.’ I find their lengthy list of long-established ‘rules of conduct,’ or etiquette, fascinating.” “This 10th book has more of an edge, a fresh approach to living glamorously,” Phillips elaborates. “It’s a blend of the traditional and edgy with a downtown attitude apt for an era with more choices than ever.” TH&L
Winterfest
Historic Homes
December 4 & 5 • 2-6 pm
Gonzales Pioneer Village
Tour
Gonzales, Texas
Evenings in a 19th Century Texas Village Costumed Docents, Caroling, & Refreshments Dec 3-4 • Dec 10-11
Mainstreet Gonzales
Lighted Christmas Parade December 3
For more info contact Gonzales Chamber of Commerce 830-672-6532 • www.gonzalestexas.com • 888-672-1095
antiques
Antique Angels
Angels among us, angels around us Angels inspire us and they astound us. They guide us, they grace us; enfold us, embrace us. They bid our beating hearts be still. They hold us fast, and always will. Text and Poetry by Barbara P. Crozier Photography by Tre Dunham above Kneeling in supplication, a pair of Renaissance-inspired angels flank an antique family Bible. They are the centerpiece of the angel collection that fills the center hall of the historic Rather House in Gonzales, Texas.
opposite page This near life-size angel lectern, with its gracefully arched, intricately-carved wings was hand carved from indigenous black walnut by a visiting German artisan and gifted to Episcopal Church of the Messiah in 1910.
antiques
A
Angels are among us. Whatever your religious beliefs, whatever your stance on things seen and unseen, wherever you work and wherever you travel, you have most likely come face to face with
an angel. Images of angels are around us everywhere, everyday. But during the holiday season the appearance of angels is most obvious, their gaze most inescapable and their allure strongest. At Christmastime it is nearly impossible not to encounter the image of an angel. Whether you’ve encountered the physical manifestation of an angel of pop-culture television and holiday movies or the angel atop your tree at Christmas, it is hard to deny the appearance of angels. Angels can appear as dainty, cherubic ornaments on tiny trees and jangling jewelry, or as majestic trumpeting archangels heralding good news and great tidings on greeting cards or office calendars. Angels appear as brightly-lighted, waving-winged yard art around every corner, or stand silhouetted on the skyscraper at the end of busy city streets. Although hard to escape as these modern-marketing images may be, none of these angel images ever made my heart skip a beat.
It was my first glimpse of an angel of antiquity that made me look at angels in a different light, changed what I collect and how I do business. A late December evening over a decade ago, I stepped into the Great Hall of the Metropolitan Art Museum in New York at the beginning moments of the traditional lighting ceremony of the Loretta Hines Howard collection of Neapolitan angels. The strains of Baroque music, and the moving ceremony to dramatically light each of the antique angels on the massive evergreen stopped me in my tracks. I am not really sure how long I stood transfixed by the beauty of the lifetime collection of Neapolitan angels Hines-Howard had gifted the Metropolitan. But in that moment, my annual search for the beautiful angels that had previously been merely a lucrative portion my seasonal inventory when I transformed my antique shop into a Christmas shop, became an obsessive passion. November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
31
antiques
top left A Victorian-style angel ornament and a plaster statue of prayerful purpose sit in a surprising juxtaposition among the hosts of angels in the room of angels at Laurel Ridge Antiques at Christmas. top right A contemporary stained glass panel of the Vision of Beatrice in the manner of art glass made famous by Louis Comfort Tiffany. left A trio of tiny angels from south of the border. bottom left A Baroque cherub nestled against Victorian mirror. bottom right A pair of Renaissance inspired archangels bearing great tidings of good news.
I began to research Neapolitan angels: how they were made, who made them and why such amazing works of angel art were ever crafted. I discovered that the Italians first created the angels of the Nativity as glorified, but almost-human creatures, when Pope Onofrio displayed the Holy Family during the Christmas Season of 1283. A fascination for displaying Creche figures and heralding angels spread rapidly throughout Europe, but it was in Naples that the golden-age of crèche and angel creation flourished. The original Neapolitan angels were made of flexible forms so that they could actually appear to be in flight. Their unblinking eyes gleamed of glistening glass, and their garments were fashioned of fine silks and precious gems. The antique angels of the Met Collection, whom I now constantly make up excuses to be in New York over the holidays to catch a glimpse, were created in that golden era of Neapolitan crèche figures and angels. After the angels of antiquity appeared to me on the tree in the Great Hall, I returned home and devoted an entire room in my shop to angels of historic inspiration. Angel ornaments and statuary now fill the music room of the historic home that is my shop, and they reflect my immense appreciation of the beauty and detail of workmanship in those angels of ancient history. The angels that appear today in Laurel Ridge are cast in bronze and in stone, and they are crafted of terra cotta and papiermâché. They are molded in wax, blown of glass and carved of wood. They are made of lace and of linen, and are shaped of porcelain and of plaster. But unique as they all appear, they reveal a common reverence for the beauty of historic images of the angelic form. Years of diligent searching have finally unearthed the contemporary counterparts of those original Neapolitan angels. They are still handcrafted in Naples, but they are in scarce supply, and extremely costly – so we offer them only by special order. They are now an important, albeit small portion of the amazing array of angels of antique inspiration that I search out for my shop each Christmas season.
Wrought Iron Mocha Blue, by Tamarian
bijan rugs Over 20 years of service
Largest selection of traditional, contemporary and transitional rugs in Austin. 3010 W. Anderson Lane Austin, Texas 78757
Phone: 512.302.9191 Design Within Reach www.rugsbybijan.com November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living 33
antiques Altered as I am by the appearance of antique angels, I am now alert to the historic detail in angels everywhere. I find history in the steadfast gaze of the angelformed, hand-carved-walnut lectern from which I read in the tiny Episcopal Church we attend in Gonzales. I discover historic detail in the graceful form of the Vision of Beatrice reflected in a contemporary stained-glass panel. I see history in sweep of the wings and the purpose of stance of the archangels that guard the entrance to my home. Clearly, the angelic images that speak to my soul recall the past generations of mortals who have shaped, painted, embellished, cared for and collected these winged-wonders we call angels. In a world ever-more increasingly guided by technology and science, driven by media and marketing, and demystified by reason and disbelief – I find I cleave more closely to the words of the Victorian artist, Edward Burne-Jones: “The more materialistic science becomes, the more angels I shall paint: their wings are my protest in favor of immortality.” In my case, the more angels I shall find. And the angels I shall find – I shall share. TH&L Barbara Priesmeyer Crozier, a frequent feature writer for TH&L, owns and operates Laurel Ridge Antiques in Gonzales, Texas. Each September, Crozier transforms Laurel Ridge into a Christmas store that offers the treasures of her travels, her enthusiasm for all things Christmas – and all things historic.
top A guardian angel of Classical inspiration and an angel of music, both a part of Crozier’s angel collection, offer comfort against the backdrop of the stormy sea of life depicted in the painting behind them. far left Angel ornaments in the Angel Room at Laurel Ridge. left The dramatic and powerful, yet tender Alsace Angel of the now-retired Duncan Royale Series of gift bearers.
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
35
antiques guide 1
Take an ordinary journey to an extraordinary place
2
15635 F.M. 2920 • Tomball, Texas 77377 www.arborgate.com • 281-351-8851
fantasy windows inc fan
ta s
a touch of class
yw ind
ows
are s im u la
te d wi n xi-g la q ue ple d ow s m a d e of maintenance-free vinyl and opa
ss
• dedicated to providing quality simulated windows • improve the appearance of the building • installed on the outside wall without interfering with valuable inside wall space • more bang for your buck!
573.694.6719 fantasywindowsinc.com Fantasy Windows, Inc. | 8 Larkin Lane | St. Louis, MO 63128
36
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
1 The Mews is pleased to add Pandora de Balthzar’s luxurious antique European linens and down pillows to our stable of shops. See them at Mews II, 1333 Oak Lawn, Dallas. (214) 748-8353. (214) 748-9070.
2
Laurel Ridge Antiques overflows with the finest 19th-century American furniture and fine art through-out they year, and every September is transformed in an unforgettable Christmas shop. Pictured, an alluring angel inspired by an 18th-century French design, is one of a multitude of angels that fill the music room of the historic home/shop. Laurel Ridge Antiques, 827 Saint Joseph, Gonzales, Texas, 78629. laurelridgeantiques.com. laurelridgechristmas.com.
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
37
INDUSTRY PARTNER
Texas Gulf Coast
2010 Awards The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is an invaluable institution to the design community in terms of providing education, growing a business, networking and providing a community that promotes creativity, innovation and excellence. The ASID Texas Gulf Coast Chapter celebrates its designers and their achievements at the 2010 Awards and presents the very best Houston has to offer. Of hundreds of submissions, 19 residential categories and 11 contract categories, the winners are‌ above
singular space Marjorie Slovack, ASID, RID; Michelle Mims, RID / Slovack-Bass
asid 2010 awards
residential under 3,500 sq. ft. Linda Eyles, Allied ASID / Linda Eyles Design, Inc.
residential over 3,500 sq. ft. Chandos Dodson, Allied ASID; Nichole Rameriz, Allied ASID Chandos Interiors
home office Audrey Drought-Mitchell, ASID, RID / Audrey Drought Design, Inc.
bath Terri Symington, ASID, RID / T. Symington & Co. Interiors
kitchen Jay Hargrave, AIA; Beth Engelland; Michael Haddell; Monica Berrones; Meedi Hidalgo, ASID / Cottam Hargrave Architecture & Construction and Kuhl-Linscomb Kitchen Design
asid 2010 awards
architectural feature / element Marlys Tokerud, ASID; George Sacaris / Tokerud & Co.; George Sacaris Studio
special function room Sheila Lyon, ASID; Lauren Michelle Belley, ASID Sheila Lyon Interiors
renovation under 3,500 sq. ft. Chandos Dodson, Allied ASID; Nichole Rameriz, Allied ASID Chandos Interiors
outdoor living loft Carl A. Joiner, AIA; Colene S. Joiner, ASID, IIDA, RID Marlys Tokerud, ASID; Su Nguyen / Tokerud & Co.; Studio Joiner Partnership Inc. No comfort was compromised in this welcoming den, and its furnishings reflect a senseMet of Architects casual style: a pair of Albert chairs from The Chambers Collection, an oriental rug, and a pair 40 Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010 of Jacques Lame paintings.
asid 2010 awards
children’s space Diane Alexander, ASID, LEED AP; Laurem Amber Prestenbach, Allied ASID, LEED AP; Laurem Kass, ASID, LEED AP Diane Alexander Designs
green design / use of sustainable products Marlys Tokerud, ASID; Joe Adams, AIA; Gail Adams / Tokerud & Co.; Adams Architects
media / theatre Jane Page Crump, ASID; Christy Davis, Allied ASID Jane Page Design Group
vacation home Linda Eyles, Allied ASID / Linda Eyles Design, Inc. November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
41
asid 2010 awards
student – residential Ariana Smetana / A.S. Interiors
best use of antiques in design Peggy Hull, ASID Creative Touch Interiors
model home / showhouse Amilee Wendt, ASID, RID / Wendt Design Group
community space Thomasine Johnson; Donna Page / En’Terior Designs 42
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
corporate office over 7,000 sq. ft. Marilyn Archer, ASID, FIIDA, LEED AP; Kenneth Wiesehuegel, AIA, LEED AP; Ron Bateman, AIA; Yishio Kuo, IIDA, LEED AP; Gary Napper, AIA, CDT; Radiance Ham; Joseph Hatton-Rodriguez, RID, LEED AP; Edward Folse; David Wyckoff / Gensler
asid 2010 awards
corporate office under 7,000 sq. ft. Sarah Eilers, ASID; Susam Dabbar; Kiley Jackson, Allied ASID Lucas/Eilers Design Associates, LLP
use of green/sustainable products Marilyn Archer, ASID, FIIDA, LEED AP; Stephanie Burritt, RID; John Harrison, IIDA, LEED AP; Yishio Kuo, IIDA, LEED AP; Joni Calkins, AIA; Daren Wagner, AIA; Andrew Bennett, AIA, LEED AP; Jeff Ehrlich; Joseph Hatton-Rodriguez, IIDA, LEED AP; Michelle HattonRodriguez, IIDA, LEED AP; Rebekka Glass, LEED AP; Jeannie Wu, IIDA, LEED AP / Gensler
historical restoration Lisa A. Haude, ASID, RID; Alison Sparer; Rebecca Robertson Paradigm Design Group
hospitality / restaurant Amilee Wendt, ASID, RID; Lance DeGeorge, AIA; Jennifer Jimenez; Gil Warrick / Wendt Designs November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
43
asid 2010 awards
retail Amilee Wendt, ASID, RID; Lance DeGeorge, AIA; Jennifer Jimenez; Gil Warrick; Roger Diaz; Gabriela Castillo Wendt Designs & DeGeorge Design
hospitality / multi-family / hotel Marilyn Archer, ASID, FIIDA, LEED AP; Nancy Nodler, RID; Kellie Scruggs, RID; Hyun-Ju Lee, IIDA; Sylvia Hajo, IIDA, LEED AP; Doug Detiveaux, LEED AP; Lester Yuen; Elizabeth Rutland / Gensler
product design Amilee Wendt, ASID, RID; Lance DeGeorge, AIA / Jennifer Jimenez; Gil Warrick / Wendt Designs & DeGeorge Design 44
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
singular space Kitten Muckleroy, ASID, IIDA, LEED AP, CDT; Charley Kifer, AIA; Stephanie Burritt, RID; Yishio Kuo, IIDA, LEED AP; Edward Folse; Julie Markham, IIDA, LEED AP; Amanda Thomas, AIA, LEED AP; Jose Solis, LEED AP; Jeff Ehrlich; Mick Markham, SEGD; John Ruelas / Gensler
institutional / educational Dan Hassebroek, AIA; Scott Cutlip, AIA, LEED AP; Wes Good, AIA, LEED AP; Kristen Johnson, ASID / Kirksey
student – contract Debra Sabrsula
asid 2010 awards
best in show
silver RESIDENTIAL UNDER 3,500 SQ. FT. Linda Eyles, Allied ASID / Linda Eyles Design, Inc. RESIDENTIAL OVER 3,500 SQ, FT. Marjorie Slovack, ASID, RID & Michelle Mims, RID Slovack-Bass SINGULAR SPACE Marjorie Slovack, ASID, RID & Sarah Herndon, Allied ASID / Slovack-Bass
RESIDENTIAL UNDER 3,500 SQ, FT. Blake Woods, ASID, RID; Laura Manchee, ASID, RID Manchee Woods Design
SINGULAR SPACE John Tryon Robinson, FASID / Robinson & Associates
KITCHEN Peggy Hull, ASID / Creative Touch Interiors
KITCHEN Peggy Hull, ASID / Creative Touch Interiors
BATH Wendy Richens, ASID / Richens Designs, Inc.
BATH Diana S. Walker, ASID / Diana S. Walker Interior Design
ARCHITECTURAL FEATURE/ELEMENT Jane Page Crump; Kristen Carlson, ASID; Christy Davis, Allied ASID / Jane Page Design Group RENOVATION UNDER 3,500 SQ. FT. Arthur Andersson, Chris Wise, Leland Ulmer, Monica Berrones, Meedi Hidalgo, ASID / Andersson-Wise Architects & Kuhl-Linscomb Kitchen Design OUTDOOR LIVING Connie LeFevre, ASID, RID; Jennifer L. Renner, RID; Jinl Lee Bank / Design House Inc. SPECIAL FUNCTION ROOM Jane Page Crump, ASID; Ashley Tisius, Allied ASID Jane Page Design Group MEDIA / HOME THEATER Karen Moore / Moore Interiors Inc.
ARCHITECTURAL FEATURE/ELEMENT Jane Page Crump, ASID; Laura Timanus, ASID Jane Page Design Group RENOVATION UNDER 3,500 Sharon Staley, FASID; Kirk Longmire, ASID; Jamie House / Sharon Staley Interiors OUTDOOR LIVING Karen Moore / Moore Interiors Inc. SPECIAL FUNCTION ROOM Diana S. Walker, ASID / Diana S. Walker Interior Design MEDIA / THEATRE Jane Page Crump, ASID; Ashley Tisius, Allied ASID Jane Page Design Group CHILDREN’S SPACE Donna Vining, FASID, IIDA, RID, CAPS Vining Design Assoc., Inc.
CHILDREN’S SPACE Peggy Hull, ASID / Creative Touch Interiors GREEN DESIGN/USE OF SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS Sandra Lucas, ASID; Sara Hillery, Allied ASID Lucas/Eilers Design Associates, LLP
GREEN DESIGN/USE OF SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS Lynne T. Jones, ASID; Sabine Benjamin, Allied ASID Lynne T. Jones Interior Design
VACATION HOME Sandra Lucas, ASID; Alison Meyer, Allied ASID Lucas/Eilers Design Associates, LLP
VACATION HOME Linda Morris-Brogan, ASID, RID / The Morris Company
STUDENT - RESIDENTIAL Frankie Dziedzic, Student / Art Institute of Houston
STUDENT - RESIDENTIAL Scotti Campbell; Frankie Dziedzic, Student Art Institute of Houston
MODEL HOME/SHOWHOUSE Chandos Dodson, Allied ASID / Chandos Interiors BEST USE OF ANTIQUES IN DESIGN Hallie Radcliffe-Canalli, ASID / Radcliffe Design
contract Kitten Muckleroy, ASID, IIDA, LEED AP, CDT; Charley Kifer, AIA; Stephanie Burritt, RID; Yishio Kuo, IIDA, LEED AP; Edward Folse; Julie Markham, IIDA, LEED AP; Amanda Thomas, AIA, LEED AP; Jose Solis, LEED AP; Jeff Ehrlich; Mick Markham, SEGD; John Ruelas / Gensler
BRONZE
RESIDENTIAL OVER 3,500 SQ. FT. Marjorie Slovack, ASID, RID; Sarah Herndon, Allied ASID / Slovack-Bass
HOME OFFICE Diana S. Walker, ASID / Diana S. Walker Interior Design
residential Marlys Tokerud, ASID; Joe Adams, AIA; Gail Adams / Tokerud & Co.; Adams Architects
SINGULAR SPACE Jane Page Crump, ASID; Ashley Tisius, Allied ASID Jane Page Design Group
CORPORATE OFFICE UNDER 7,000 SQ. FT. Blake Woods, ASID, RID; Laura Manchee, ASID, RID Manchee Woods Design CORPORATE OFFICE OVER 7,000 SQ. FT. Kristen Johnson, ASID; Mariju Wille / Kirksey HISTORICAL RESTORATION Amilee Wendt, ASID, RID; Jennifer Jimenez; Roger Diaz; Gabriela Castillo / Wendt Design Group HOSPITALITY / RESTAURANT John Tryon Robinson, FASID / Robinson & Associates HOSPITALITY/MULTI FAMILY/HOTEL Kathy Andrews / Kathy Andrews Interiors INSTITUTIONAL / EDUCATIONAL Connie LeFevre, ASID, RID; Jennifer L. Renner, RID; Amanda Lockhart, Allied ASID / Design House Inc.
MODEL HOME / SHOWHOUSE Jane Page Crump, ASID; Christy Robinson, Allied ASID / Jane Page Design Group BEST USE OF ANTIQUES IN DESIGN Hallie Radcliffe-Canalli, ASID / Radcliffe Design CORPORATE OFFICE UNDER 7,000 SQ. FT. Dina Holleron, Allied ASID / The Designers Niche CORPORATE OFFICE OVER 7,000 SQ. FT. Marilyn Archer, ASID, FIIDA, LEED AP; Edward Folse; Todd Runkle; Tiffany Thierot, RID, LEED AP / Gensler HOSPITALITY/MULTI FAMILY/HOTEL Kathy Andrews; Abby Bell / Kathy Andrews Interiors INSTITUTIONAL / EDUCATIONAL Lynne T. Jones, ASID / Lynne T. Jones Interior Design SINGULAR SPACE Dena Brody, ASID; Lauren Perry, ASID / Dena Brody Interiors
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
45
Christmas, Chateau-style
Dallas designer brings the holidays home in grand style for this Fort Worth family Text by Nancy Myers Photography by Geno Loro
The family room is paneled entirely in mahogany. The fabulous hand-carved mantle with Red Dragon Onyx hearth was carved by Pallas Design Group in Dallas and modeled after the grand fireplace in the Hall of Hercules in Versailles. Gilt lion’s head sconces illuminate the book matched wood panels, and the clients’ wingback chairs were reupholstered for this intimate, cozy seating area. “It’s where the family spends most of its time,” Marrs says of the room.
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
47
The body of the house is clad in Portuguese limestone blocks and carved decorative elements. “The quality and craftsmanship are superb,” says Marrs, crediting architect Richard Drummond Davis and builders The DeMoss Company of Fort Worth.
48
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
J
John Phifer Marrs knows how to interpret clients’ visions, whether the desired effect is stately or
unassuming. These particular clients – the Palkos – wanted a period look, and they got it. Strategically located in a hilly, gated community that boasts one of the area’s highest elevations, it’s a picturesque view inside and out of the palatial dwelling. The 13,000-square-foot home, the second that Marrs has designed for the couple and their three kids, and he calls it their dream home. The appeal is understandable – the designer’s interweaving of French influences, intricate artisan touches and seasonal sentiment have rendered a charming chateau reminiscent of the lovely Loire Valley. “It was the design job of a lifetime, with wonderful clients and a great design team,” says Marrs, who also incorporates the Palkos’ lavish holiday décor when the season rolls around. “And best of all, clients who love living and entertaining on a grand scale. The colors are certainly wonderful for Christmas.” For the project Marrs assembled some top-notch talent that included Richard Davis, director of design and president of Richard Drummond Davis Architect, Inc., and building firm The DeMoss Company. Marrs has endless praise for both, especially Davis, who’s known for his refinement of elegant proportions. “Richard was a delight, and a wonderful part of the team,” Marrs notes. “The house speaks volumes about his work. He was involved in the process all the way to the final installations.” The home is loaded with custom details, from moldings and murals to antiques and ironwork. These enviable features, and a rotunda that begs for a soaring Christmas tree, lend themselves to rich holiday motifs. “I think the organization of the floor plan of that house is one the most incredible we’ve ever done,” says Davis. “One of the most interesting things is that it’s built in Renaissance style, where there was a core of the house and rooms were added over the centuries. The rotunda, being
above The commissioned rotunda mural illustrates the four periods in the development of education and philosophy throughout history — avid interests of the homeowners. right The elaborate second-floor stair railing is gilded iron, with particular details embellished with gold. opposite page The Grand Rotunda functions as not only the entry hall for the home, but also as a space for entertaining; the homeowners have many festive events over the course of the year, hosting up to several hundred guests at a time. Floors in the rotunda were modeled, in both marble types and design, after those in the Royal Chapel at Versailles.
50
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
round, allows for several of the rooms to shoot out at different angles. Going all the way around the rotunda you’ve got the living room, dining room, entry hall, stair hall (in a turret), a corridor that goes back to the butler’s pantry in the kitchen, and a gallery that goes down to the master bedroom and family room.” The rotunda, with its painted mural on the ceiling and mosaic floor modeled after the chapel at Versailles, was the natural spot for the main, massive Christmas tree and the starting point from which Marrs and crew would implement the rest of their holiday magic. The endeavor included both conception and installation, and extended to a total of 13 rooms, six trees, a 24-foot-long stretch of arched entry garland, and four fireplace mantels. “Obviously the house dictated the type of holiday décor – very grand and overscaled,” says Marrs. Colors were chosen accordingly, with decorations in gold, bronze, copper, earthy merlots and claret reds for the main areas. For the private family rooms and bedrooms, they opted for shades and themes to match the mood and personality of each. “We were asked to create decorations that were grand in scale, original in design and reflective of the elegance and colors throughout the house,” says Marrs’s project manager/design associate Derek Vanlandingham (they call him the resident elf). “I selected ornaments and garnishes in deep, rich metallic tones of copper and gold, burgundies and saturated emerald greens for the 12-foot tree in the rotunda. The skirt is made from a panel of silk in a claret red with an overlay of copper-tinted organza. The ornaments are a combination of over-scaled blown glass and traditional Kugels, tufted organza ribbons, rhinestonecovered stems and copper-encrusted pinecones. The tree is finished at the top with gilt and glittered palm branches, reminiscent of the extravagant designs worn by the Court of Versailles in their costumes and hairpieces.” “The trees throughout the other rooms in the house are not as large, but just as spectacular,” Vandlandingham adds. The November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
51
above The Louis XV-style living room features exquisite objects from the homeowners’ collection of period antiques, including a signed Charles Boulle dresser, inlaid with tortoiseshell and brass marquetry surmounted by gilded ormolu. The painting depicts Saint Peter holding the keys to the gates of Heaven. Surrounding the red silk damask fabric panels are elaborate hand-cast 23-karat gold-leaf frames and ornaments. below The Louis XVI period master suite features custom carpet with inset medallions, a carved green-marble mantle, elaborate hand-molded plaster and gold leafed walls. Specially commissioned paintings, depicting cherubs celebrating the four seasons of the year, are tucked into each corner of the ceiling.
52
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
pub tree is draped with rhinestone garlands mirroring the colors of deep red, green and gold, and its ornaments reflect the characters of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite. The room is adorned with dried mahogany and lotus seedpods, eucalyptus branches, apples and persimmons. The kids’ rooms have smaller trees in keeping with their personalities and ages. The tree in the daughter’s room is chic and sophisticated, filled with pink, cream and salmon ornaments, plus pearls and crystals, accented with white marabou garlands and topped by a crystal star. The decking of the hall was accomplished in a mere three days – quite incredible, considering the home’s scale and scope. Marrs hired a team of six for the assembly of the rotunda tree. Other rooms in the house – the family room, pub, all of the bedrooms and office – involved hands-on decorating by Vanlandingham and an assistant. above The 12-foot-long Rosewood dining room table and mahogany chairs were custom designed for the room by Marrs and his design team. Malachite and gold sconces complement a magnificent 19th-century gilt bronze chandelier by Henry Dasson of Paris. The rug, along with many of the others in the home, was also designed by Marrs and his design team.
All the trimmings beautifully showcase the home’s incredible craftsmanship, much of which was local. A Dallas company customcarved the front door, and the family room mantelpiece and other elements exemplify similarly superb handiwork. “There’s great artistry right here in Texas,” says Marrs, “which makes me so proud. You don’t have to go to Europe to get all this stuff. When you look at the detail and quality of woodcarving and cabinetry work and hardware, it just amazes me. I’m bowled over the plasterwork, the guilders. They say they can’t build things like they used to, but you can!” He notes that for almost every elevation of every wall there was a drawing and a discussion, so the details, from plaster and molding on, were thoughtfully appointed. “It was such a wonderful opportunity to work from the ground up,” he says. Rugs were custom-woven for various rooms, and the dining room table room and chairs were custom-built in Europe and shipped to Dallas. “The clients were so wonderful to allow us to do the right thing, to find wonderful pieces. It was really a great project in that respect.” Most importantly, the home and the holiday finery are priceless reflections of the homeowners, their style, and their generosity. November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
53
And what’s it like at the designer’s own home, come holiday time? He takes a more conservative approach. “Personally, I like more edited holiday decorations,” Marrs says. “A tree, sentimental
left The Louis XVI period dining room houses a collection of porcelains and antiques, including a Cartel bracket clock, an extensive collection of antique Meissen porcelain, and several pieces of China owned by Marie Antoinette. right “All of us worked on this magnificent door,” says Marrs. It was carved in the Louis XIV style out of mahogany by Pallas Design Group in Dallas, and is eight feet tall and more than 100 pounds. The lantern is reminiscent of those that hang in the halls and passages of Chateau Versailles. opposite page The hall of mirrors connects the formal rooms of the house to the private family rooms, and evokes the atmosphere of the mirrors at Versailles. The whimsical mural, vaulted ceiling, crystal chandeliers, and mirrors reflecting the windows overlooking the garden create a mesmerizing effect.
ornaments, personal things. I decorate with collections that I have – angels, nutcrackers – but I focus on specific areas such as fireplaces, center tables and the dining table. I am not one to put something ‘Christmas’ everywhere. A wreath on the front door is fine with me, maybe with garland around the door.” His favorite holiday memories involve family and friends, parties and Christmas dinners and gift openings. He favors small gatherings and often hosts several intimate dinner parties throughout the season, instead of one large get-together. His favorite room in his own home is an all-glass garden room. “It overlooks the garden and is filled with my collections of tole trays and antique hooked rugs. And the color scheme is red and green – perfect for Christmas!” He says it was pure pleasure being involved in this house, getting to know the Palkos and readying the house for seasonal festivities. “It was a real joy for me. What I love about this business is that you never know where it’s going to take you.” TH&L November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
55
The Mullins’ 20-foot tall Christmas Tree dominates their family room.
Dressed to
Impress
Each year, this Texas home gets a seasonal upgrade that takes it from beautiful to breathtaking. Text by Suzanna Logan Photography by Ruda Anderson, RUDA Photography Š2010
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
57
E
Eleven months out of the year, Debbie Mullins resides in a 10,000-square-foot residence that most of us would be more than happy
is warm, welcoming spaces with just the right amount of luxury thrown in. To prepare the house for the holidays – and the arrival of visi-
to call home, but for a few weeks out of the year, the
tors and parties galore – William arrives at the house just after
typically stunning residence becomes something even more.
Thanksgiving. For three days, both indoors and out are a jumble
“There’s no word other than ‘magical,’” says Debbie, of the
of lights, greenery and Christmas paraphernalia. With William
transformation of her home into a Christmas wonderland. The
and a crew of eight to help get everything perfectly into place,
man responsible for making the magic happen, William Horton,
Debbie doesn’t have to lift a finger. “He just totally takes over,” she
echoes Debbie’s thoughts. “It is magical in the sense that it has a
says. “He’s an artist, and I trust his judgment 150 percent.”
lot of drama without being overdone,” he explains. Striking the right balance between tasteful and too much
Because William has been decorating this particular home for the past six Christmases, he has the process down to a science.
required years of trial and error, according to William. The prodesigner-turned-family-friend has decorated five of Debbie’s homes over the past 18 years. “Debbie’s tastes have changed, and we have
above European holiday glass ornaments on parade in Mullins’ front room.
both learned a lot in the process,” he says. Today, the outcome
opposite page The Mullins dine at this ravishingly decorated table.
58
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
60
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
When Debbie first moved into the home in 2004, she and William settled on a scheme that would include rich tones and sumptuous finishes. Each year, they add to the collection of Christmas treasures. Blending the old with the new preserves tradition and keeps things fresh and fun, says William. Today, crystal and glass balls, metallic ribbons and candles shine in the interiors, while natural additions, like pheasant feathers, cherries and twigs, add a touch of rusticity. To help Debbie get the most effect from her Christmas furnishings, William concentrates the decor on the main floor where she entertains the most. The expansive level includes a formal living and dining room, kitchen and informal dining area, and a family room with a connecting entertainment room. The grand architecture of the space – with its soaring ceilings, interior balcony with wrought-iron railing, and wood paneling – lends itself to equally grand Christmas displays. In the Mullins’ home, ornaments aren’t just reserved for the tree. Verdant garland glittering with a collection of European glass ornaments seems to grace every surface. Even the light fixtures don’t go untouched. Chandeliers in the kitchen, dining room and family room come alive with displays of greenery and glass. Because fresh greenery will only survive about two weeks under the duress of indoor heat, William prefers to work with synthetic greenery. To infuse the interiors with a crisp winter scent but still keep maintenance to a minimum, he relies on large garlands and wreaths of artificial greenery and places small touches of the real thing where it will be noticed. One of Debbie’s favorite pieces – a hand-painted nativity scene purchased during one of her excursions to Paris – lies atop a bed of fresh greenery. “At least once during the season, Bill comes in to replace the
caption A zebra-print rug and pillows and tons of seasonal bright light in the entertainment room.
greenery so the display stays beautiful,” explains Debbie. While the garland is eye-catching, the greenery that steals the show is in the form of a towering 20-foot Christmas tree in the sunken family room. The tree is warm and romantic with shades of gold, chocolate brown, creams and reds. The limbs are hung with a glittering collection of European-made ornaments, including Murano glass from Italy. Nearby, in a small elevated sitting area just beyond the entertainment room, sits a tree that is every bit as beautiful – and different. “The tree in the family room is more traditional, while the other one is a bit more eclectic,” explains Debbie. In keeping with the red couch and zebra rugs in the space, the tree offers a modern take on Christmas with black, red and white bedazzlements. Although they are different, like any good Christmas tree, both offer a blend of beauty and sentiment. Ornaments collected while Debbie’s two sons were growing up are given prime placement alongside more pricey ones. Across the room, a stacked stone floorto-ceiling fireplace serves as backdrop for another of Debbie’s treasured keepsakes – a collection of needle-point stockings personalized with the names of her family members. (Even the four-legged members of the family have their own stockings.) Two oversized nutcrackers stand sentry on the hearth, adding a touch of tradition and whimsy, while two miniature versions appear on a nearby coffee table. The fireplace adds real and visual warmth to the open space, and thanks to the wraparound style, Debbie and her guests can enjoy the glowing benefits in the kitchen and dining area. In both the informal and formal dining areas, candles serve as eye-catching centerpieces and lend a soft glow to holiday meals. The formal dining room, like the family room, is dressed in shades of blue and gold that shimmer under the gentle radiance of the candlelight. Despite all the attention to detail in the interiors, the home’s grounds receive the same royal treatment at Christmas time. 62
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
above The exterior view of Mullins’ 10,000-square-foot holiday home. opposite page top The more ‘eclectic’ of the Mullins’ Christmas Trees. opposite page bottom A detail shot of the Christmas Tree’s bulbous decorations.
At night, thousands of lights surround the front and back yard in a wintry glow. “The electricity bills are quite a bit higher during Christmas, but it’s worth it,” says Debbie. “How can you not love it?” Apparently, her neighbors feel the same way: Debbie says the impressive display draws residents from all over the neighborhood. After six years, the display has become something they can count
on. While some people are flooding the stores in search of deals on Black Friday or noshing on leftover Turkey, you can bet that the day after Thanksgiving, Debbie and William will do as they have done for the past 18 years – They will begin turning Debbie’s house into a holiday masterpiece. The transformation is just as sure as St. Nick’s Christmas Eve flight – and just as magical. TH&L November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
63
Miracle Workers
Christmas
Text by Jessica Dupuy Photography by Tre Dunham
64
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Volney’s living room, with Christmas Tree.
W
When most people hear the term “Santa’s little helpers,” visions of short, sprightly elfin creatures
with pointy ears, rose-colored cheeks and cute slippers with curled toes come to mind. But for Sally Volney of Temple, “Santa’s little helpers” come in the form of three Austin-based interior designers: Dawn Hearn and her two indispensable assistants Michele Christenson and Glenda Schley. On the first Monday after Thanksgiving, this team of creative home stylists descend on the Volney’s stately home early in the morning – Christmas spirits high, bags packed with extra hints of holiday décor and sleeves rolled up ready for a day of decorating. The project before them: to transform the Volney’s beautiful Temple home into a Holiday wonderland. “It usually takes us a full day to get everything done,” says Dawn Hearn. “We come prepared to spend anywhere from 10-12 hours.” It’s an annual endeavor Hearn and her team has been a part of for the past three years. Having worked with the Volneys when they first built the house in 2008, Hearn has been an integral part of the overall look of the home from start to finish – the annual Christmas decorations are the icing on the cake.
At first, the seasonal project included a few rooms with a couple of Christmas trees and festive décor in the entryway. But each year the project has expanded to include a Christmas tree and accents in each of the living and dining rooms, the study and the upstairs. In addition, the main gallery, the stairway and the family room are decorated with floral arrangements and holiday accent pieces. “It hasn’t quite touched every room yet,” says Hearn. “But each year we add more to the project. Eventually it will take a couple of days to get it complete.” Having practiced interior design for almost 20 years, five of which have been for her own studio, Dawn Hearn Interior Design, Hearn’s primary focus is on full-scale interior design projects including new construction, remodeling and space planning, but she also enjoys helping a few of her established clients with seasonal décor. It’s especially rewarding when she gets to build on her work each year. For Volney, it’s a much-appreciated service. “I couldn’t have done it without Dawn and her team,” says Volney. “I just don’t have an eye for design like they do. I know what I want to achieve, but I don’t know how to get there. Dawn and Michele know what to put up first and then how to layer it with florals and accessories. It’s just amazing.” Volney, a retired school teacher, and her husband, Dan, who owns a specialty pharmacy, grew up in Bartlett, and have lived in the Temple area for more than 30 years following Dan’s graduation from Texas A&M. Now they have a growing family with three grown children and four grandchildren. When designing the entire home, it was important to have a place where family could come and stay and enjoy time together throughout the year, and Christmas was no exception. In fact, it’s the one time that Volney pulls out all the stops. “I have always loved decorating for Christmas. When we were younger with young kids, we didn’t have as much opportunity to do a lot, but now, I really want to do as much as I can,” says Volney. “It’s just one of the best times of the year. We always had really big Christmas gatherings with family when I was a kid and it was always big and special. I really wanted to keep that going with our new home.” But Volney does her part to help as well. All of the trees and decoration are stored at her home for the year – she uses arificial trees, as live trees are not as sturdy for the weight of the decor. Before the team arrives to execute the holiday cheer, Volney meticulously sets out the decorations for each room, has the trees set up with lights and checks to make sure all of her ornaments and specialty pieces from previous years are all in tact. Once everyone arrives, she helps put everything in place.
top The Christmas Tree in the study, the more ‘masculine’ of the group. bottom A closer look at the study tree. Notice the bird feathers and brown colors. opposite page An ornate holiday wreath borders the Volney fireplace. 66
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
67
No two trees look the same once the team is finished. The tree in the study is designed to have a more masculine feel with rust and brown colors, deer antlers and bird feathers, and a few hints of maroon weaved in as homage to Dan Volney’s Texas A&M background. In the kitchen, the tree is more whimsical with cookinginspired ornaments as well as handmade ornaments Volney has made over the years. Upstairs, the tree is dedicated to the Volney grandchildren with tin, raffia and craft-style ornaments. (The kids even have a hand in picking a branch or two to decorate on their own when they come to visit.) Volney uses the living room Christmas tree to display her collection of Christopher Radko ornaments and Mark Roberts fairies. For the mantles, staircase, side furniture and dining room table, Hearn has relied on her design assistant Michele Christenson to create beautiful floral sprays and arrangements to complement other pieces of holiday décor that Volney and Hearn’s team have picked out over the years. (Each June, they all travel to the Dallas Market Center to add new items to the overall collection.) For Hearn, the key is to think creatively about items to use for décor. Volney has a collection of Annalee elves that Hearn used pipe cleaners to set and secure in one of the Christmas trees. She also had the idea to include the deer antlers in the study tree. “You’re not just limited to a standard Christmas ornament,” says Hearn. “You have to be creative with items that are personal to you like old Christmas cards or mittens from childhood.” While Hearn and her team work hard to help guide their clients in building a beautiful Christmas scene that fits with the overall look of the home, the main goal is to let each individual client define what type of Christmas atmosphere they want to express. “We have a client who has a very contemporary style in her home, but when it comes to Christmas, she wants us to help her create a more traditional Christmas,” says Hearn. “Something that reminds her of her childhood. So we sort of ignore the overall design direction of the home and let the holiday season dictate how the look should be. The finished product still works really well in the room, it’s just different than the client’s typical style.” For Hearn, sharing in the ceremony of decorating for the Volneys is a welcome way to spark her own special Christmas memories. “Seeing those rooms completed just takes me back to a time when Christmas morning as a kid was just a magical time,” says Hearn. “I really enjoy getting to be part of that.” This year, as Christmas Day approaches, Volney can take comfort in knowing her home will reflect every bell and whistle of holiday cheer, thanks to the help of what she calls her very own “miracle workers.” TH&L
top Holiday plates, green centerpieces and colored napkins for the Volney’s dinner table. bottom Another charming decoration on one of the Volney’s beautiful trees. 68
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
How to Take your
Holiday Decorating
1 2 3 4 5 6
to the Next Level
Remove your every day decor like pillows, floral arrangements, linens and accessories and replace them with holiday and seasonal substitutes.
Make your holiday decor more personal. Embroider family members names on stockings, display cards from friends and family, include family heirlooms in your floral and table arrangements, add an ornament to the tree for every family member featuring their name or something that represents them, collect ornaments from your travel destinations.
Be bolder than your usual style. It is only up for a brief time and the extra glitz looks great during the holidays!
Group your holiday collections to make strong statements rather than spreading them throughout the home.
Consider multiple trees for the different areas of your home. For example, whimsical and homemade ornaments can be featured on a tree in the breakfast room or near the kids’ bedrooms or guest rooms. More formal trees and decorations can be placed in the entry or formal living room.
Don’t forget the exterior. Accent the front door with a wreath or lit garland. Pots of poinsettias are an easy way to add color to a front porch. Add some pine sprays or bows to exterior gates and light fixtures. November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
69
design TEXAS
1
2
3
4
5
1 Bellissimo Interiors is Dallas’ award-winning design firm specializing in Custom Draperies, Bedding, Upholstery, Furniture and Shutters & Blinds for residential and commercial spaces. Whether your style is traditional, contemporary, eclectic or casual let us help you design a look that meets your needs. Let beauty and function become a reality when you design with Bellissimo Interiors. (972) 480-5290. dfwdraperies.com. 2 Encompassing California Casual as well as European Formal, Spanish Mediterranean and other classic styles, the Kreiss Collection offers endless combinations with something for every taste, mood and moment. This diverse selection allows for the versatility to create living spaces that suit homeowners’ unique personalities and lifestyles. The Kreiss Collection features fine furnishings and accessories for a life of casual elegance. 512.476.2121. kriess.com. 3 Kaskas Oriental Rugs. Family owned and operated with years of experience in Sales, Cleaning and Repairs. We just received our new shipment of vegetable dye rugs with exquisite colors and designs plus a large selection of Antiques rugs. We guarantee you will find the rug of your dreams at the best price. (512) 458-5551 or (512) 300-2227. www.kaskasorientalrugs.com. 4 Rutherford’s Design offers Hand Blown Art Glass Chandeliers for that special area that demand the custom size color and shape for a 70
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
6
7
unique fixture, each installed and signed by the artist. 5417 West Lovers Lane, Dallas, TX. (214) 357-0888. rutherfordsdesign.com. 5 Emmet Perry. YES, this is a rug! And it is in stock and on the floor at Emmet Perry & Co. fine carpets and rugs. Come see this and other fabulous Rex Ray designs transformed into beautiful rugs suitable for any floor. Located at 8200 Washington Ave., Houston, TX with easy drive-up convenience. Experience the look and feel of hand woven rugs from around the world. (713) 961-4665. emmetperry.com. 6 The latest crosses from Cassis® Jewels, internationally recognized for feminine yet bold collections, a favorite among the “bejeweled” fashion forward ladies in Texas! Cassis® textured 18K rose, yellow and white gold “Strong and Faithful” leather cord toggle cross necklaces from their “Turn Up the Chic” collection. Available at select luxury retailers throughout Texas. (212) 302-9441. cassisjewels.com. 7 Pride of Persia Rug Co. now offers a stunning collection of contemporary wool and silk Tibetan rugs at their Houston Design Center showroom. These incredibly versatile rugs are available in stock and custom sizes and colors for the ultimate in personal expression. ASID Industry Partner and BBB member. Appointments requested. 7026 Old Katy Rd., Suite 164, Houston, TX 77024. (713) 522-7870. prideofpersia.com.
Bellissimo Interiors Luxury Meets Elegance
Design Services | Draperies | Bedding | Upholstery | Furniture | Faux Finishes
972.480.5290 | Dallas, TX
www.dfwdraperies.com
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
71
design TEXAS
2 1
3
4
5
1 Patina Green Home and Market is a culmination of home belongings ... “found” pieces each with their own time-touched patina are mixed with new upholstered pieces from Cisco Brothers Furniture. Rooted in simplicity with a nod to nature ... a French piece here, an industrial loft accent there, Patina Green’s style imparts personality and begs to tell its “story”. 116 N. Tennessee, Suite 102, McKinney, TX. (972) 548-9141. patinagreen.typepad.com. 2 Design House Inc. Design Studio and Showroom offers many unique pieces such as this 350-year-old Live Oak wood plank-end trestle-based coffee table. The wood was resurrected from falling trees in Gascoigne Bluff, a Native American campground. It has antique channels created by carpenter ants around 120 years ago and beautifully crafted American Walnut butterflies. Wood from this same area was also used as structural support in the U.S.S. Constitution. We can have custom pieces and flooring made with this wood. 7026 Old Katy Rd, Suite 115, Houston, TX, 77024. (713) 803-4949. designhousetx.com. 3 At Persepolis Rugs, you’ll find a remarkably diverse selection of rugs offered at unequalled value in a relaxed atmosphere. We specialize in providing you the most beautiful handmade rugs and the most 72
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
6
exclusive and extensive selection in North Texas with more than 35,000 handmade rugs in stock in all sizes. Visit our showrooms in Frisco, TX (214) 599-9966 and Dallas, TX (214) 521-8866. persepolisrugs.com. 4 Grand Openings, Inc. offers the best selection of elegant windows and doors for your next residential or commercial project. With showrooms in Dallas, Austin and Houston, we invite you to see the timeless beauty found only through superior crafted materials. grandopenings.com. 5 Pride of Persia Rug Co. is delighted to offer an expanded selection of Ghazni Khotan rugs at their Houston Design Center showroom. Inspired by antique Uzbek pieces from Central Asia, these lovely handwoven wool rugs have been updated to reflect today’s gentler palette. ASID Industry Partner and BBB member. Appointments requested. 7026 Old Katy Rd., Suite 164, Houston, TX 77024. (713) 522-7870. prideofpersia.com. 6 JEIDesign specializes in upscale residential design and projects planning. Julie Evans and her team enjoy creating interiors reflective of the people who live in them and achieve an elegant balance of classical and contemporary design. 512.330.9179. jeidesign.com.
, Houston, TX 77007 •
e For D
era h T n sig
•
py
Jennie Perry, Cindy Hunter & Kathryn Edwards
Furniture • Accessories • Design November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living 713-212-0000 (10:00 - 6:00)
73 INDUSTRY PARTNER
design TEXAS
1
4
3
2
5
6
1 Krantz Recovered Woods & Jimmy’s Cypress is a third generation lumber company. They reclaim virgin Cypress and Longleaf Heart Pine from old buildings and underwater logging efforts, and Cypress products from today’s forests. This precious wood is then transformed into high grade flooring, beams, millwork, siding and countertops. 14807 US Hwy. 290 E., Austin (Manor), TX 78653. (512) 278-9998. KrantzRecoveredWoods.com, Jimmys-Cypress.com. 2 Handcrafted by master artisans in Italy using a 22-step process, this stunning dining table from Artitalia is fashioned using premium European wood. Reclaimed wood from villas and chateaux, which can date back to the 17th century is also used as well as precious wood inlays of ebony, pear, maple and beech. Austin, Houston and Beaumont. alysonjon.com. 3 Trust your locally owned Abbey Carpet & Floor showroom to find the perfect floor for you. Whether it’s carpet, rustic tile, exotic hardwood or durable laminate, we’re here to help you every step of the way. It begins with our expert staff that will help you create the right look and feel. To locate a showroom go to TexasHome.BuyAbbey.com. 4 Hall Lighting & Design. “The best Christmas display in South Texas,” is the way many describe the Annual Christmas Showcase of professionally decorated trees, accessories and gifts at Hall Lighting & Design. If this year is like past years, travelers from as far as Houston and Laredo will stop at this 12,000-square-foot showroom to be awestruck and to buy. A great place for unique Christmas gifts at a reasonable 74
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
7
price. Over 88,000 items on display. Want more? Check out hallelectric. com and then head for this Christmas Showcase in Victoria, Texas. 5 Sugar Creek Interiors has relocated! Come see our fabulous new showroom featuring furniture, lamps, accessories, minerals, art and more! We are a proud sponsor of the 2010 Holiday Shopping Card, which helps benefit the American Cancer Society. For a minimum donation of $70 you will receive a 20% discount on merchandise at our store and more than 900 of the finest retailers starting October 28-November 7, although we are offering the discount until the end of the year. With the holidays about to start we offer great gifts or interior design services for your parties. Hours: Monday through Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 8200-D Washington Ave, Houston, TX. (713) 212-0000. 6 Savannah House creates interiors with great feeling using their custom furniture designs from antique architectural elements, custom lamps from antique tins and the compliment of perfect fabrics in this Texas Ranch design. Whether your project is a loft, urban retreat or a Hill Country ranch, SH has years of experience to offer a creative design concept. 8200-D Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007. (713) 863-2948. savannah-house.com. 7 Jane Page Design Group, is an award-winning interior design firm that has an experienced design and support staff. They specialize in home interiors, new construction and remodeling. 500 Durham Drive, Houston, TX. (713) 803-4999. janepagedesigngroup.com
The bed of your dreams.
2000T II
Inspired by history Built for eternity
THE HÄSTENS STORE DALLAS In The Shops of Highland Park 4252A Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 www.mydreambeds.com 214-252-0101, dallas@hastensstores.com Store hours: Monday - Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., and by appointment
Excelsior II
Luxuria
We invite you to select theNovember/December Bed of Your Dreams today... 2010 • Texas Home & Living 75
design TEXAS 1
2
Flooring Beams Millwork Siding Lumber Reclaimed Longleaf Pine Reclaimed Cypress Reclaimed Oak New Cypress
KRANTZ RECOVERED WOODS www.KrantzRecoveredWoods.com
Third Generation | 512-278-9998 | Austin, TX
1 Starting in Persia as a wholesale rug dealer four generations ago, we are one of the oldest dealers in Austin. Still family-owned and operated, we have our own looms in India that produce rugs for our showrooms exclusively. Visit Bijan to preview a mesmerizing array of rugs that are “Luxury Within Reach!” 3010 W. Anderson Lane, Suite I, Austin, Texas 78757. (512) 302-9191. Rugsbybijan.com.
Looking for a treasured classic?
2 By Design Interiors, Inc. is “Houston’s Best” award-winning design firm with a reputation of integrity and impeccable service. Our expertise and talents have been delighting clients for over 20 years. It is our goal is to “make your world more beautiful, BY DESIGN.” (281) 587-8755. bydesigninteriors.com.
Jimmy’s Cypress
www.Jimmys-Cypress.com
retirement living
Classic Cars, Trucks and Motorcycles Buy • Sell • Broker Appraisals - Locater
(405) 946-4371 76
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Edgemere is Dallas’ only resort-style, life care retirement community. Our Tuscan inspired architecture, with abundant gardens and lush landscaping, offers a retreat in the heart of the city with close proximity to the best shopping, dining and cultural opportunities. At Edgemere, there are a variety of apartment home styles and locations from which to choose. Dallas, (214) 265-9100. edgemeredallas.com.
holiday recipes German Black Forest Cherry Torte Torte 2/3 cup unsalted butter 6 eggs 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Cocoa 1/4 cup light corn syrup 1/4 cup kirsch (cherry brandy)* 2 jars (10 oz. each) maraschino cherries, drained and rinsed WHIPPED CREAM FILLING (recipe follows) *Note: 1 tablespoon almond extract plus 3 tablespoons water can be substituted for kitsch.
Whipped Cream Filling Beat 3 cups (1-1/2 pt.) cold whipping cream, 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon almond extract in large mixer bowl until stiff. Cover; refrigerate until ready to use.
Recipe and Photo Courtesy of Hershey’s
1. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch round baking pans. 2. Melt butter over very low heat in small saucepan; remove from heat. Skim off milky solids and discard; reserve remaining butter. Beat eggs. sugar and vanilla on high speed in large bowl until mixture is thick, fluffy and very pale in color (about 10 minutes). Stir together flour and cocoa; sprinkle several tablespoons over top of egg mixture. Gently fold into egg mixture; repeat procedure until all of cocoa mixture is combined with egg mixture. Fold in melted butter, several tablespoons at a time. Divide mixture evenly among prepared pans. 3. Bake 10 to 15 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes; with knife, loosen cake from sides of pans. Invert onto wire racks; cool completely. 4. Place cake layers on wax paper; with fork, poke holes about 1-inch apart through all layers. Stir together corn syrup and kirsch; sprinkle evenly over cake layers. Lightly press cherries between layers of paper towels to remove excess moisture. Prepare WHIPPED CREAM FILLING.
Gingerbread Christmas Stockings This mild-flavored gingerbread cookie appeals to all ages and is a perfect choice for a family holiday afternoon of cookie decorating.
Cookie 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup LAND O LAKES® Butter, softened 1 LAND O LAKES® All-Natural Egg 2 tablespoons mild flavor molasses 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated orange or lemon zest 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cloves Frosting 3 cups powdered sugar 1/3 cup LAND O LAKES® Butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 to 3 tablespoons LAND O LAKES® Traditional or Fat Free Half & Half or milk Red and green paste or gel food color
1:40 prep time 4:05 total time 3 dozen cookies
Decorations, as desired Use marshmallows, licorice pieces, miniature candy-coated chocolate pieces and decorator candies to create these holiday stockings.
10 to 12 servings 5. To assemble, place one layer on serving plate; spread with 1/2-inch layer of whipped cream. Place half of drained cherries over top, leaving 1 inch around edge free of cherries; with second layer, repeat procedure. Place third layer on top; frost and garnish top and sides with remaining whipped cream. Cover; refrigerate before serving. Garnish as desired.
Recipe and Photo Courtesy of Land O Lakes, Inc. 1. Combine sugar and 1 cup butter in large bowl; beat at medium speed until creamy. Add egg, molasses and orange zest; beat until well mixed. Reduce speed to low; add all remaining cookie ingredients. Beat until well mixed. 2. Divide dough into thirds. Shape each third into a ball; flatten slightly. Wrap each in plastic food wrap; refrigerate until firm (at least 2 hours or overnight). 3. Heat oven to 375°F. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface, one-third at a time (keeping remaining dough refrigerated), to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut with 4- to 5-inch stocking-shaped cookie cutter. Place 1 inch apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until set and edges just begin to turn lightly browned. Remove to wire cooling rack. Cool completely. 4. Combine powdered sugar, 1/3 cup butter and vanilla in medium bowl; beat at low speed, adding enough half & half for desired spreading consistency. Divide frosting into 2 small bowls; tint 1 green and 1 red. Decorate cookies as desired.
kitchen + bath 1
2
3
1 The Kitchen Source, an exclusive Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry dealer, specializes in cabinets, appliances (including Sub-Zero/Wolf and Miele), countertops, plumbing fixtures and any remodeling needs. The kitchen is not the only place where they can provide cabinetry; they can extend their expertise to other areas of the home as well. For the homeowner who wants a hassle free, one stop shopping experience, The Kitchen Source has the product and staff to complete any look and provide you with the very best. 1544 Slocum St., Dallas, TX 75207. (214) 741-1912. thekitchensource.net. 2 The Purist Wading Pool wet surface lavatory by Kohler is stunning. This lavatory can transform any bathroom into a luxurious home spa environment. The Purist mirrored cabinet with laminar faucet is a completely unique design. It features a slide out wood shelf for storage and function. Visit any Bath & Kitchen Showplace to learn more about these and other great products. bkshowplace.com. 3 The distinctive Vinnata kitchen faucet by Kohler combines great style with function. A very popular faucet, the Vinnata comes with a MasterClean™ sprayface that resists hard water buildup and washerless ceramic valving to ensure precise water control. Choose either an aerated stream or a powerful spray. Learn about this and other great options for your kitchen at The Bath & Kitchen Showplace. bkshowplace.com.
Home Fragrances | Exclusive Table Top Accessories | Elegant Home Décor Exceptional Bath Products | Bridal Registry | Baby Gifts | Books Gourmet Items | Women’s Fine Accessories 210 South Main Street, Boerne, Texas 78006 | (830) 331-9272 | www.LasFinezas.com
November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
79
on the town
2010 ASID Texas Gulf Coast Chapter Design Awards Members and guests of the American Society of Interior Designers Texas Gulf Coast Chapter enjoyed an evening at the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Houston at their annual awards banquet.
Linda Marble and Hallie Radcliffe-Canalli
Hallie Radcliffe-Canalli and Sarah Ruiz
Mary Wilson and guest
Jane Page Crump and Christy Davis
Lynne T. Jones
Diane Alexander, Sharon Staley, Debra Sabrsula, Hallie Radcliffe-Canalli, Audrey Drought-Mitchell, Letecia Ellis, Crystal Reeves, Ray Levy and Peggy Hull
80
Texas Home & Living • November/December 2010
Jane Page Crump and Ashley Tisius
Donna and Jim Vining
Michelle Mims and Marjorie Slovack Sarah Eilers
Debra Sabrsula and David Narveson Donna and Randy Jarnigan
For People Who Appreciate
On 16 sunny acres, Edgemere is Dallas’ premier retirement resort. Nestled between the exclusive Preston Hollow and Park Cities neighborhoods, Edgemere serves up gourmet and casual dining, lively activities, a spectacular fitness center and spa, and its own Performing Arts Theater. Choose from 13 unique floor plans for deluxe apartment homes of all sizes. Edgemere is also Dallas’ only Life Care community, providing guaranteed access to exceptional assisted living, nursing care and memory support at stable monthly rates, shielded from the prevailing cost of long-term care.
With special incentives, including a 90% refundable entrance fee, Edgemere makes a luxurious retirement more affordable than ever. Call 214-717-6324 for a personal tour. Experience Edgemere.
8523 Thackery Street Dallas, TX 75225 214-717-6324 www.edgemeredallas.com
www.SQLC.org
Michael Wilson Photography 2009
beautfy.
The lifestyle at Edgemere.
® Registered Trademark/ TM Trademark of Jenn-Air, U.S.A. ©2010. All Rights Reserved.
*Compared to hoods and other downdraft cooktops.
Consider the air cleared once and for all. Introducing the industry’s best performing ventilation system.* Built right into the downdraft cooktop. Factory Builder Stores factorybuilderstores.com North 281-477-6464 Galleria 713-572-4242
There’s something quite breathtaking about our new downdraft cooktop. Its powerful ventilation clears the air of smoke and odors as you cook. All that, and it doesn’t even require a hood. Experience it in action, and explore the next generation of Jenn-Air ® appliances at an exclusive showroom below or at jennair.com/cooktop. Ferguson Bath & Kitchen ferguson.com Houston 713-626-3300
KIVA Kitchen & Bath
kivahome.com Houston 713-781-2222 The Woodlands 936-539-6336
Tri-Supply
trisupplyhometeam.com Houston 713-896-3522