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74 Shop Local
Blackbird Collection’s vintage nds speak to shoppers on a sustainability mission.
82 Creative Type
When life gives her thorns, artist Susan White uses them to make sharp statements.
90 Live + Stay + Play
AIA Homes by Architects tour details.
98 Community Culture
In ll lots in KC’s oldest neighborhoods inspire designers with modern interpretations that build on the past.
110 Steel Going Strong
A custom home with one-of-a-kind fabrication details is riveting.
182 Fairway Friendly
A luxurious lanai beats par for indooroutdoor livability at Loch Lloyd.
192 Seamless Sophistication
A contemporary lakeside property in Loch Lloyd strikes a balance of seamless connections and communion with nature.
202 Modern Oasis
A transformative pergola o ers shelter from life’s daily storms at this poolside retreat.
212 The Art of Possible
NSPJ Architects and builder James Hickok introduce a new perspective of modern luxury in the ever-evolving Westside neighborhood.
222 Taking Shape
Once slated for demolition, a Mission Hills Tudor begins a new chapter, thanks to architecture rm Hoke Ley’s visionary Guggenheim-inspired design.
232 Colonial Icon
Designer Amy Thurston edits a century-old gem to be a ferocious and awless modern remake of a classic.
244 Villa Nuovo
Noble Designs enlivens a Tuscan-style villa with a brightened, whimsical spirit.
258 Reaching for the Starrs
A Modern Rustic ranch in Bucyrus showcases the epitome of new home design.
THE SPRING ISSUE 2025
115 Rooms We Love
The loveliest shade of pink elevates the nursery at the home of retired footballer and dedicated father Mitchell Schwartz; a Texas-style weekend getaway at this upscale “barndominium” is a short drive away for one local couple.
132 The Well-Lived Life
Laundry Day isn’t (as much of) a chore in two rebranded spaces; Arrow Cleaners—now Arrow Home—points in a new direction of elite home care.
150 Past Perfect
Will Brown Interiors sensitively revitalizes a St. Louisarea Georgian Revival, striking the right balance between ‘presidential’ and personal for his client, University City mayor Terry Crow.
162 Kitchen + Bath
An exquisite use of stone remarkably upgrades designer Stacey Neely’s “basic box of a house;” Trove Homes’ experimental approach with plaster and Roman Clay makes a suburban home renovation sing.
274 Resources
282 Advertisers
290 Sanctuary
A black tub evokes sexy self-care vibes.
Alot of fabulous designs come through my inbox. I encourage your pitches, as they help me see the breadth of work being done across the city. From this overarching vantage point, issues start to take shape. Each one showcases ne design and inspiration and each has its own avor.
I would describe the projects in this issue as having something unusual about them. I don’t mean “weird.” Something remarkable, singular or exceptional is incorporated into every project. Take the staircase, for example. It’s a set of treads and risers that take you up and down levels. But in this issue, we see staircases that appear to be oating, that glow with underlighting, that have delicate iron arches
or an elegant molded wood baluster or, in the case of a Mission Hills house redesigned by architecture rm Hoke Ley, a graceful, museumquality, three-story helix.
We’ve got Gucci tiger-print wall—and ceiling— paper encasing a powder bath. Small spaces, designer Amy Thurston says, are perfect for big statements. Yes!
Designer Stacey Neely employed a similar e ect in her not-so-big home, using natural exterior stone as the counter-to-ceiling kitchen backsplash. It’s not the most practical choice, she admits, but its enchanting beauty was worth the risk of a higher-maintenance material.
Speaking of impractical beauty, I was oored to learn about artist Susan White’s medium of choice: locust thorns. I live on acreage with a forested property line and know rsthand the dangers of honey locust trees; their thorns have de ated many tractor tires and punctured boots—and the feet inside of them—too many
times. However, their defensive design is one of wonder and, yes, even beauty. The way White paints each one by hand and links them together into sculptures is admirable.
While following trends can make you happy, doing something on the opposite spectrum— something wildly imaginative that your brain manifests—can lead you down a path you didn’t know you wanted to go. I audibly gasped at some of these images, laughed at the ingenuity of others, and, several times, had to bring the photos just inches from my eyes to study what I was seeing. I adore the personality-driven projects in this issue and I hope you do, too.
As you ip through our pages, we invite you to explore the ideas bubbling in your own subconscious—and then share them with me!
A deconstructed American flag made of individual locust thorns, page 82.
Hubbardton Forge tiered light fixture in a “floating” stairwell, page 212.
Helix staircase in Mission Hills, page 222.
Photo by Matt Kocourek
Commissioned artwork for a laundry room, page 132.
Contemporary Piero Fornasetti plates prominently displayed on an Italian Baroque case piece, page 244.
Gucci wall—and ceiling—paper, page 232.
OLIVIA BURNS Owner & Principal Designer
Circa Interior Design
Photo: Matt Kocourek
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ON THE COVER: At the Bucyrus home of builder Gerry Starr, the line between the expansive outdoors and the luxurious and technologically advanced indoors is blurred in this transitional lanai. See the feature on page 258. Photo by Matthew Anderson.
Blackbird Collection
Consciously curating fashion and home decor with thoughtfulness and meaning.
Words by Megan Li s | Photos by Brynn Burns
ASthe spring season blooms, many of us begin planning for the inevitable ritual of spring cleaning. In a fast-paced world where the next big thing is always just around the corner, the desire to declutter our spaces and simplify our lives has never been more relevant. Amy Dreyer, founder of Blackbird Collection, embodies this idea with a refreshingly simple philosophy: “Less is more.” With a focus on timeless, sustainable fashion and interiors, Blackbird’s vision is an inspiration for the future of consumer culture.
In the dressing room, a Taller Marmo Extravaganza Kaftan in Pergamena strikes a fabulous pose.
In her twenties, Dreyer spent years traveling the globe and was struck by the staggering waste generated by the fashion industry. Although she had a deep love for fashion, she was determined to not become another contributor to the problem.
“I wanted to give more support to good brands than I could just as a shopper,” she explains.
This passion inspired her to create Blackbird Collection—a shop where customers can nd consciously made products designed to endure for years to come.
Focused on chic, sophisticated style and a pale e of neutral colors, Blackbird Collection
o ers pieces designed to be styled in numerous ways. The collection encourages a thoughtful shopping experience, emphasizing quality over quantity—a cornerstone of sustainable living. For customers seeking wardrobe staples or distinctive decor, Blackbird’s dedicated team of stylists provides personalized guidance through in-store styling sessions or at-home consultations, ensuring each purchase becomes a lasting and meaningful part of their lives.
Their commitment to sustainability is just one facet of Blackbird Collection’s mission to create meaningful impact. Women-owned and run, Blackbird’s dedication to ecoconscious practices is matched by their focus on diversity and empowering underrepresented artists from around the world.
A vintage directional channeled-section sofa reupholstered in recycled Turkish chenille stages a major scene with a custom ottoman by Blackbird Collection, available in any shape or size. Rug by Soufiane Zarib; plaster art by local artist Devon Hines Studio.
Framed art by photographer Bonjwing Lee hangs above a Matt Castilleja credenza. In the foreground is a Massimo & Lella Vignelli Metafora coffee table.
A vintage Curtis Jere smoked glass and chrome table is set for some “you time,” paired with a tubular vintage Ralph Rye chair (a set of six is available).
Dreyer believes that “our power comes from where and how we choose to spend our money,” and this philosophy is displayed in the shop’s collaborations. By partnering with LGBTQ+ and Ukrainian artisans, as well as small, familyowned businesses Dreyer encountered during her travels, Blackbird Collection re ects her belief that every purchase can contribute to a meaningful, positive change.
Blackbird Collection isn’t just a shop— it’s an inspiration to the power of thoughtful choices. By blending sustainability and timeless style, Dreyer has created a space where every purchase contributes to a be er future. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe, decorating your home or simply looking to support meaningful cra smanship, Blackbird Collection o ers a way to consume consciously without compromising on quality or sophistication. As the world moves towards a sustainable future, Dreyer’s philosophy of “less is more” invites us all to shop with intention and celebrate the beauty of lasting impact.
Blackbird Collection
122 Southwest Boulevard
Kansas City, Missouri
blackbirdcollection.com, @shopblackbirdcollection
See Amy Dreyer’s personal home in the next issue of designKC!
A Brutalist credenza contrasts with specialty lingerie from Ukrainianowned Nue Studio.
A Milo Baughman burlwood extendable table is surrounded by vintage Pace chrome dining chairs.
A Matt Castilleja mirror is propped against the wall.
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Vanity fabricated by our trusted vendor, Central Surfaces.
Sharp Statement
Kansas City artist Susan White gets to the point literally, philosophically and spiritually, using locust thorns as her medium.
Words by Susan Cannon
Photos by E.G. Schempf
“I believe that there is a kind of spirituality throughout the world that connects all of us across time, across cultures, and that it is deeply manifest in nature,” artist Susan White explains. This belief has a poetic ring to it, and her works seem to carry a common sensibility of lyricism, whether they are representative of hope or forlornness.
In 2010, White was an artist in residence at Youkobo Art Space in Tokyo, and her experiences in uenced her work in myriad ways.
“My time in Japan caused me to think carefully about air, about breathing, about osmosis, a kind of unconscious assimilation or gathering of information through the atmosphere,” she says.
She has also said: “Walking is a signi cant part of my way of being—a means of observing, of thinking.”
Her body of work indeed re ects these connections to nature.
Most recently, White has been working in two predominant mediums. First, mesmerizing pyrography artworks created through a scorching or burning process on paper. With the tiny tip of
Susan White’s 17-foot thorn sculpture, Ri (2018), hangs in a private collection in Loch Lloyd. The home was built by developer Harry Lloyd and renovated for the current owners in 2018-2019 by BVD Architects. The calming windowed space set against the sylvan backdrop allows the sculpture to merge with nature and quietly shine.
“[Thorns] are dangerous and much de led and di cult to work with, yet I respond to their elegance of form and the cultural metaphors they suggest.”
~ artist Susan White
The artist with River of Solace, River of Hope at the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art in 2017.
a burn tool, the artist’s pyrography pieces are intricately born by making millions of tiny burn marks.
“I’m interested in transforming the frenetic impulse of the everyday into a calming, meditative hum,” she says, explaining not only the visual expression of the works, but also the actual rhythm she feels when working on these pieces. She sees these works as a meditation on topography, expressive of air, of breathing, of atmosphere suggestive of deep space as well as a kind of molecular intimacy.
“They are informed by the great prairies of the Midwest, vast acres burned every spring to restore nitrogen to the soil—a fertility ritual in a way—and by the undulating horizon lines of the
Flint Hills beneath which is limestone,” she says.
Second are the artist’s thorn sculptures. White’s thorn works are large-scale installations and discrete sculptures related to architectural form.
“They are dangerous and much de led and di cult to work with, yet I respond to their elegance of form and the cultural metaphors they suggest,” White notes.
The artist’s rst and largest thorn sculpture she made is the 17-foot artwork, Ri , that resides in a private collection in Loch Lloyd. The suspended sculptures are created around a central chain.
“I make a hole through which the natural thorns are self-doweled. It is a slow and meditative process,” she explains. However,
one suspended thorn sculpture called Hope Line has no interior chain. “Hope is fragile,” White comments about this particular work, painted in gold, one thorn at a time.
White’s seminal body of using thorns, however, has been a series of American Thorn Flags she began in 2012. Flag I represented a complete ag at Cara y Cabezas Gallery, and Flag II, shown at Haw Contemporary Gallery in 2014, was a partial ag with some of the thorns having fallen to the oor, when she felt the country to be in a growing state of disarray and distress. Through the subsequent years, her series of American ags became expressive of the magnitude of con ict and dissension within America, where each of the six appeared in further decay. In her latest exhibition at Studios Inc. in September 2024, Flag VI was disassembled into three separate piles of thorns. At that time, she felt everything had fallen apart, yet some hope remained.
While there is a line of “hope” through White’s various works, she has concluded that Flag VI, the disassembled ag, will be the nal of the series.
@susanwhite1010; susan-white.com
Flag IV. Como, Italy (2019)
Photo courtesy of the artist.
Above: The artist working on one of her pyrography pieces.
Right: Ode to the Livestock Exchange (suite of VII). Archival inkjet prints of an original pyrography piece photographed by the artist near a window in her former Livestock Exchange studio. With the natural light flowing across the artwork, White felt compelled to capture the moment, and new and beautiful photo-images appeared that took on a surprising topography-like feel.
Homes by Architects Tour
Sunday, April 27, 1-4 p.m.
Discover the Kansas City Metro like never before during KC Design Week’s Homes by Architects Tour. Tour four stunning homes designed by local architects and hear rsthand from the designers about the unique details and inspiration behind each one. Here is a peek inside two of them.
All homes on the tour were designed by AIA Kansas City Member Firms and selected by a special commi ee. KCDW will correspond with ticket holders regarding the addresses of the homes closer to the event.
Tickets may be purchased at www.kcdesignweek.org starting in mid March.
Harrison Duplex
Architect: Sam De Jong, AIA
Photography: Kelly Callewaert
The Harrison Duplex is situated in an urban, historic Kansas City neighborhood and is designed, developed, owned and operated by the architect. This project is a prototype for developing “missing middle” housing and is an endeavor to realize design excellence and community impact despite a very limited budget.
Kive Redux
Architect: FORWARD Design | Architecture
Photography: Bob Greenspan
This project involved a complete renovation and addition to the Jane Whitney Residence, originally designed by Kive and Myers. Over time, two previous additions had disrupted the original design. To unify the space, a 200-squarefoot extension was added to the rear of the house and restored much of the original structure. What was once a one-bedroom, two-bathroom home is now a spacious three-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence.
www.mldesignskc.com mldesignskc 913-413-0088
Building on the Past
In ll lots in KC’s oldest neighborhoods inspire designers with modern interpretations.
Words by Megan Felling
Location is a calling card of Kansas City’s favorite downtown and midtown neighborhoods, enticing buyers to their walkable streets and vibrant communities, but architectural opportunity is what entices designers and builders. Some ri o historical details, renovating or rebuilding in similar scale and style, while others create something entirely new, starting fresh on an in ll lot. Either way, they create homes that function for the way families live today.
Westside
High on the blu s just west of downtown, displaying phenomenal views of the Kansas City skyline, the Westside North and South neighborhoods sit roughly between I-670 to the north and 31st Street to the south, between Broadway Boulevard and Beardsley/State Line, adjacent to the Crossroads Arts District. With a strong Latino culture, frequent festivals and many community centers, it’s a family-friendly place where multiple generations and income levels live side by side. The housing stock includes older Victorian homes and bungalows, alongside a ordable new townhomes and modern custom homes.
“It has a true neighborhood vibe—the energy is great,” says Troy Moore, chief experience o cer and owner of Madi Mali Homes. “You’ll see people out walking and visiting with neighbors.”
Talk about a room with a view! All eyes are focused on the streamlined update to this historic house in Westside. From the before and after photos below, one can see the modern facelift that Hermanos Design gave to a Victorian home while maintaining its integrity. Photos by Aaron Dougherty.
Embrace the Gold
A rooftop bar at the MMH Experience Showhouse has an unparalleled view of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. They can make a cocktail at home and amble over for a performance, an idea that draws new residents to the Westside hilltop neighborhood.
He and his wife purchased a lot for sale that o ered the “best 270-degree views of downtown” to build an experiential showhouse for their business—and a home for themselves. As recent empty-nesters, they wanted to move back to the urban core.
The Moores envisioned their company’s design studio on the lower level of a new build, while the remaining three oors would serve as their custom residence and entertaining space, complete with a roo op terrace overlooking downtown and Crown Center. The design is considerate of surrounding homes while clearly a modern interpretation.
“We didn’t want to be too trendy—we wanted to feature cu ing-edge technology that would complement more traditional architectural elements like wainsco ing and ornate casing, melding the two styles,” Moore explains.
The lot is only 50 feet wide, so building vertically would accommodate each oor’s function. Construction on in ll lots requires additional considerations. For instance, Moore notes that since the lot is at the top of a hill, sewer lines were 18-feet below and the streets had to be cut and extra shoring added. And because maintaining the view was a top priority, he partnered with Evergy to bury power lines.
Hermanos Design Build Studio took a di erent tack in the neighborhood. The rm specializes in adaptive-reuse projects, especially renovating older masonry buildings. They recently won an AIA award for the renovation of a Victorian home featured on the previous page.
Josh Hartman, an architect with Hermanos, says the project entailed renovating the third- oor balcony and a ic space that the homeowners wanted to expand for entertaining. They removed the gabled end of the structure and vaulted the new space to incorporate large expanses of glass to maximize the views.
“We were a empting to mix the avor of the older home with the newer portion,” Hartman explains. “We kept the ornate details and a
Photo by Nate Sheets.
Far Left: Designed by Hufft and built by Edward Franklin Building Company, this house at 1735 Jefferson Street neighbors the MMH Experience Showhouse, another uniquely modern design added to the fabric of the neighborhood.
Left: A narrow lot can be a challenge to design and build on; clerestory windows are one way to address light and privacy issues.
Above: Sightlines down the hallway open to a momentous wow-factor as the view of downtown looms large from an entire wall of windows.
Photos by Matthew Anderson.
repeating pa ern around the gable then added metal for a modern look and contrast. It was an obvious cut between the old and new. When doing a renovation in a historic neighborhood, the goal is to bring back history in a modern way and breathe new life into the home.”
The Edward Franklin Building Company’s philosophy is similar. The company brings modern living to established neighborhoods by designing and building in harmony with the area. The concept isn’t to replace existing character but rather to re-energize it with new custom homes, remodels and additions that add to the existing aesthetic.
One example is Franklin Heights at 21st and Belleview. These two-and-a-half story newconstruction row homes have a modern spin on classic design, featuring open-concept layouts, large picture windows, multiple outdoor access points and updated materials like standing-seam aluminum roo ng.
“We aim to build and create homes that are a part of the neighborhood fabric in the places we work by infusing the character and personality already existing in these areas,” says managing partner Grant Baumgartner. “We want to build a home with character that blends in and doesn’t stand out from the existing homes on the street but that has a more modern feel on the inside.”
Edward Franklin’s rental house at 544
Harrison Street in Columbus Park is a beautiful reinterpretation of an older style—a brick front in the same scale as nearby homes cleverly fits into the older neighborhood. But its modern windows facing the street and its dual outdoor living spaces—at the patio and rooftop level—are more aligned with today’s buyers and renters.
by Matthew Anderson.
With charming row-house façades, gabled roofs and dormer windows, these 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath homes feel like they have always been part of the neighborhood, even though they are 100% brand-new construction. Outdoor decks and open-concept interiors maximize living and entertaining space, while incredible downtown skyline views can be seen from nearly every room.
“The community cares about what is happening; there can be generational residents,” Baumgartner says. “We’ve found that involving the neighbors, being transparent and listening, engaging them in a positive way goes a long way toward having a successful project.”
West Plaza
Nestled west of the Country Club Plaza and south of Westport, West Plaza is a vibrant neighborhood with a strong community association and is home to historic bungalows
Another example of their vision is the modern version of a classic bungalow at 20th and Summit. Several sleek area homes feature a contemporary air but are reminiscent of the historic shotgun style. Highlighted by large covered front porches and streamlined wood and metal accents, the homes have been warmly accepted by the neighborhood residents.
Photos
Photo by Matthew Anderson.
and shirtwaists mixed with modern new builds. The hilly terrain makes for steep building lots, and many homes require stone retaining walls in the front yard.
Dominique Davison, managing principal of DRAW Architecture + Urban Design, rst fell in love with West Plaza when she and her husband were researching areas to live when they moved to Kansas City. They purchased and completed a major renovation on a home for themselves and have since constructed several new homes on in ll lots for clients in the vicinity.
“Urban in ll lots give you so much to work with,” Davison notes. “In the historic areas, you can push the scale, but it’s important to maintain the integrity of the neighborhoods. We do studies on roof heights, and the building setbacks can be tricky. The ratio of home-to-land is de nitely something to pay a ention to so it doesn’t feel too tight. We are urban planners as well as architects, so we try to design what feels good and to note how the space between buildings a ects the light.”
For one of their clients, views of the Country
Club Plaza drove the design. Although it’s a modern design, the house refers to the context of the area. DRAW preserved hints of the original structure’s character by maintaining an existing limestone retaining wall and designing the new house within the existing grade. Large porches connect the clients to the landscape, while a second-story roof deck adds luxurious outdoor living space with a view.
“We’ve found that clients want a design partner to help create a house that is functional yet beautiful and suits the way they live in their home—whether that is with an expanded kitchen or space to accommodate an art collection—it really varies,” Davison says.
Beacon Hill
Located between 22nd Street and 31st Street and Troost Avenue to The Paseo, with easy access to downtown and Crown Center, Beacon Hill stretches back to the nineteenth century. This historic neighborhood retains a mix of architectural styles to this day.
A section of Troost Avenue once known as Millionaire’s Row was eventually developed into a commercial corridor. What was once largely an African-American neighborhood with many vacant lots and abandoned homes is now experiencing an urban renaissance thanks largely to investments in projects by the City of Kansas City, as well as UMKC student housing and apartments.
Left: A rooftop view of the park is exceptionally rare in the neighborhood. Above: For these West Plaza clients, DRAW designed a new, modern home facing Westwood Park focused on high-performance sustainability and accessibility. Simple, low-maintenance materials and modern windows give the home a fresh perspective on curb appeal among surrounding older homes.
Photos by Michael Robinson.
As part of the ongoing e ort to revitalize the Troost corridor, DRAW led a neighborhood master-planning process for the 27th & Troost redevelopment, cra ing an urban-design plan centering on shared streets and lowimpact development principles, re ecting residents’ desire for a walkable, socially vibrant neighborhood.
DRAW also was involved in the full architectural services, interior design and urban design for the new multifamily/mixed-use Marcato. The brick street-side façade is dynamic but also ts its place and time. Inside, 120 apartments feature nine-foot ceilings, energy-e cient appliances and modern nishes.
“I love the Beacon Hill community,” Davison says. “We have built more than a dozen houses in this neighborhood, some custom for clients who speci cally wanted this area and others on spec. Our homes tend to be a warm modern, with an indoor-outdoor connection, suited to how people live day to day, with some special or unique features—nothing we do is cookie-cu er.”
When designing within these historic neighborhoods, designers and builders have found it possible—even preferable—to build upon the essence of the past while improving the quality of homes to meet the new demands of today.
Madi Mali Homes, @madimalihomes
Hermanos Design, @hermanosdesign
Edward Franklin Building Company, @edwardfranklinbuildingco
Above and right: Designing from the ground up alters some restraints of working in an older neighborhood. DRAW Architecture + Urban Design infused this client project with light and architectural details—such as these trusses and a custom staircase. Photos by Mike Sinclair.
This new construction project in Beacon Hill is actually two homes—a residence plus an artist studio—with an outdoor living space connecting them. The site offers sweeping views to the north and west, with unobstructed views of downtown. Photo by Mike Sinclair.
Steel Going Strong
A custom home with one-of-a-kind fabrication details is riveting.
Words by Andrea Darr | Photos by Amy Farnum
When Amy Farnum relocated to Kansas City from Denver ve years ago, the designer was looking forward to forging new relationships with subs and builders. She found exactly that when a steel-fabricator client approached her about his family’s industrial-style custom new build in Independence, Missouri.
“It was an opportunity to come up with something creative,” Farnum says. “Everything I do is highly custom, and this was so out of the box and fun.”
Farnum was called in to bring warmth, light and a sense of cohesiveness to the project. The owner/builder brought plenty of ideas to the table, too, starting—obviously—with a steel-beam structure. But the client’s unique contributions to the house need a closer look: The custom cabinets are out ed with steel hinges, the baseboards are riveted to the wall, and, most noticeably, a four-chamber gas replace on a bed of river rock heats the house and makes a stunnning conversation piece.
Scan here to read the full feature story on this home.
Structural steel beams cast a unique light pattern onto the primary bathroom floor, but their main job is to support a partition wall that divides space from the bedroom. While industrial, the room plays on an indoor/outdoor vibe with its brushed travertine backdrop. Heavily scraped custom oak vanity bases are topped with Dekton vanities and sinks.
A 100-percent custom four-chamber gas fireplace is the true centerpiece of the industrial-style home. Individual cranks open each side for direct ambiance, and the unit can heat the whole house. A bed of river rock ties the design theme back to the property.
Pictured here: Lautia Aqua Wall Tile
Call of the Wild
A Texas-style weekend getaway is a short drive away for one local couple.
Words
by Gloria Gale | Photos by Josie Bene eld
Undeniably, we’re an industrious lot, considering we’re taught to work hard and, regre ably, not play enough.
Not so for one busy couple, Chris and Carrie. They are no strangers to hard work, but they have recently realized that, hey, it’s time to enjoy life from another vantage point.
Already living comfortably but ready to consider moderating their busy schedules, they decided to investigate a dose of countri ed living. The couple and their two Dobermans wanted to nd seclusion on rural acreage south of Kansas City in a simple weekend retreat.
A er investigating several properties, Chris and Carrie se led on 20 acres of woods and elds with an un nished building on a site not ve minutes from their primary residence.
“The couple initially wanted a metal building much like a barndominium for their weekend retreat. But
The kitchen wasn’t created to be a cooking kitchen, a task better suited for the main house a few minutes away.
“However, now that we’ve hosted up to 25 people at the farm, the kitchen handles the job beautifully,” Carrie says.
Tran enhanced the visual appeal with quartz countertops and a trio of novel light fixtures over the island.
The building’s original plywood cabinetry was replaced with modern knotty alder for a definitive upgrade. The skull above the stovetop is wood carved by Indonesian artists.
An interesting array of mirrors and light fixtures grabs attention in the primary bathroom. Because the client wanted the cabinets open at the bottom of the vanity, Tran created a design that gave the illusion of airy cabinets floating on top of one another. Defying gravity, so to speak!
there were restrictive city codes, so they turned to more conventional residential construction as an alternative. That’s when I stepped in,” says Jill Tran of Tran + Thomas Design Studio. “I see all types of buildings—both residential and commercial—but because this wasn’t a barn, but rather a residential house with a smaller footprint that would eventually deliver all the creature comforts, I had to focus on a plan keeping practicality in mind.”
Partnered with Chris Van Horn, general contractor/remodeler of CMP Construction, the team built out the weekend retreat as a much-needed sanctuary for the couple. It was never intended to be a primary residence but still needed to t all the amenities within its 2,000-square-foot framework.
“Upon initial inspection, what we saw was essentially a ‘white box,’” Van Horn says, referring to construction in which the interior space of a structure is le un nished or minimally nished. The HVAC, plumbing and electrical were in place, and some drywall was up, dividing space into a kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, a powder room and a primary suite.
“However, along with Jill, my task was to turn this place into a home,” he adds.
A er signing o on the plans, the team spent about nine months on the job.
“Much of the construction time went smoothly,” Tran notes. “I came in with my interiors concept to ultimately revamp an original a empt that didn’t meet the couple’s ideas.”
A primary sticking point was durability.
Utilizing the neutral tones of salmon and cream, the primary bathroom is a standout with its wallpaper and mixed tile choices. “The bathroom is so luxurious now,” says the homeowner.
“ It’s been a valuable lesson to live within the realm of wildlife.”
~ Homeowners Carrie and Chris
“Because the couple has two Dobermans, the materials we picked had to be able to contend with the dogs—nothing too precious,” Van Horn says.
That extended to furnishings, as well.
“Since the dogs will eventually nd their way onto the furnishings, we used commercialgrade fabrics that provide a so feel with stain resistance,” says Tran, an animal lover herself. “The oors, in particular, are luxury vinyl tile, which is a beautiful rendering with a tough nish. The nal look turned out to be very handsome— one that lures the homeowners to visit more o en.”
Because this project was made for weekend fun, it also needed to accommodate all of the couple’s ‘toys.’ That line item was easily checked since one side of the building measures a 60’ x 60’ garage with the 40’ x 40’ adjacent living area—plenty of room for a tractor, motorcycles and sports gear that needs sheltering.
A solid wall in the living room offered an opportunity to add design interest. “We utilized a simple oneinch-deep arch against the drywall, then covered the wall with Venetian plaster. Rather than clutter the space, we accentuated it with a brass wall sconce on either side,” Tran explains.
Tran maximized the main living area with clean, white walls and earthy furnishings. Layered rugs add color and depth. “We chose a fabric sectional covered with commercial-grade fabric. It is a great choice because our two dogs will likely be on the sofa,” the homeowner notes.
What’s a ‘barndominium’?
According to The New York Times, a barndo or barndominium combining a barn plus condominium into a livable home was coined by Karl Nilsen, a real estate developer, in the 1980s. His initial plan was selling a kit to ranchers or farmers who housed stables on the ground oor with living quarters upstairs—a horse lover’s dream.
That never caught on, but the concept of a quick-installation metal building provided a concept that seems to be gaining popularity. Particularly with the cost of the average American home hovering around $400,000, a barndominium o ers a much more a ordable option.
Points to consider for a barndominium build:
• Low maintenance, considering metal is less corrosive and more durable than more conventional residential building materials.
• Building costs and ease of construction are considerably less than typical wood-framed houses.
• Flexibility of living space; open spaces, lo y ceilings and no hallways can lead to innovative designs.
• Lower insurance costs than a conventional home.
But the draw for locating in this wooded property wasn’t just because of the remoteness. It’s not every day that you can see so much wildlife when living in suburbia.
According to Carrie, the more they stay here, the more they love it.
“It’s been a valuable lesson to live within the realm of the wildlife, including fostering hives of bees, deer that o en circle around, curious raccoons, coyotes and a wild turkey among all the cri ers that call this woods home,” she says.
The increased connection to nature has made the original dream evolve.
“Because my husband and I love the outdoors and love to entertain, it’s becoming clear that we want to eventually raise our own food, continue to make honey and appreciate the good life that the country a ords,” Carrie says.
Neutral tones of salmon and cream are soothing in the primary suite, keeping the flow of simple yet modern design in tandem with the rest of the house.
Carrie loves to travel—why not use her find from a safari as a reminder?
JCLC HOMES
A Room for the Ages
An elevated nursery in a grown-up shade of pink sets the stage for a couple’s daughter to grow.
Words by Kimberly Winter Stern | Photos by Nate Sheets
When Brooke and Mitchell Schwartz shared their stunning Leawood home with designKC last winter, we marveled at how the chic lifestyle in uencer and the former gridiron star e ortlessly took a dated Tuscan-style residence, brushed away its heavy, dark patina and emerged with a crisply reimagined motif—an ode to luxe modern living.
Statement-making furnishings in the nursery’s nook include a low-slung CB2 bench, which fits former NFL tackle Mitchell Schwartz for lounging and future coloring sessions with Scottie. “He was a great sport about ensuring his comfort in this space,” Brooke says. “We measured him, the wall, and the deep and wide nook.” The alabaster Melange elongated wall sconce by Kelly Wearstler for Visual Comfort, along with a West Elm table and assorted textured pillows, complete the relaxing vibe. The wall color is Benjamin Moore’s Venetian Portico.
So, it’s not surprising that when the couple prepared to welcome their rst child last summer, Brooke envisioned a nursery that sidestepped being a mishmash of a nursery-playroom clu ered with toy storage and sporting color combinations that traditionally signal “baby on board.”
“I approached the design project very intentionally, ensuring I wouldn’t want to change everything in ve to 10 years,” Brooke says.
During the home renovation, Mitchell, an avid cook and barbecue a cionado, had de nite ideas about the kitchen’s functionality for everyday cooking and frequent entertaining.
“That is his domain,” notes Brooke, a selfdescribed “devoted non-cook.” “But he deferred to me regarding the baby’s room. When we found out we were expecting a girl, he knew how much that meant to me and encouraged me to tap into my design instincts. His only requirement was a comfortable place to spend time with our daughter.”
That was a tall order to ll since the standout NFL o ensive right tackle has a physique unfriendly to most swivel rockers on the market. The couple visited stores around the city, where Mitchell took chairs for a test drive. The rst requirement was that the chair be wide enough to accommodate his girth. They nally found the perfect chair that suited the new dad at Crate&Barrel, a modern design allowing him to rock, cuddle, snooze and coo comfortably.
When the couple’s baby arrived in June, the nursery was bu oned up to welcome Sco ie, a name Brooke adopted from a female a orney on the hit TV show, Suits
“It was the character’s nickname, but I became obsessed with the idea of a masculine name for a girl,” she says.
The second- oor room designated as the nursery is spacious—19’ x 15’—with soaring ceilings. Brooke and Kristen Ridler, ASID, her bestie and longtime
The modernist design of the RH Madero dresser and changing table is in playful juxtaposition with the Pottery Barn bow mirror.
The bathroom is one of Brooke’s favorite parts of Scottie’s nursery. “I’m obsessed with the slab of pink marble—it’s fun, feminine and timeless—a lowcommitment purchase with high impact.” Light fixture from Wilson Lighting.
interior designer, paid close a ention to the scale challenge as they planned the nondescript room’s personality transformation, choosing each piece of furniture, light xture and design element to create a big impact while still grounding the space.
The duo started with the custom trim work, what Brooke calls the nursery’s centerpiece.
“The rest of our house is pre y modern, so we went in a li le di erent direction,” Brooke explains.
“She instantly loved the notion of adding molding to the walls and painting everything pink,” Kristen adds. “We had so much fun designing this space together. Brooke drives the vision.”
They chose Benjamin Moore’s Venetian Portico for its lush qualities. Floor-to-ceiling draperies in the same color from The Shade Store were a happy coincidence.
“We had two pinks to choose from, and one exactly matched the wall color,” Brooke says.
Playful accents throughout the room include the Julie Neill Talia ush-mount ceiling xture from Visual Comfort, which reminds Brooke of a kids’ so ball pit. The clear, swirled glass of each light bubble makes a statement over the RH convertible crib, and the plush Nordic Knots rug imbues a pop of color against the room’s demure pink pale e.
“I love the orangey, amber rug—it centers the room,” Brooke says.
Brooke, whose robust social media following swooned over her Chanel-inspired closet, hasn’t landed on a de nition for her penchant for interior air.
“How can we coin ‘sophistication with comfortability?’” she asks with a laugh. The rsttime mother admits her design style is evolving
Crate&Barrel swivel rocker overlooks a window offering the peaceful vista of a backyard pond.
with Sco ie’s arrival. “We are adding white oak paneling to the main staircase and other textural elements and swapping out creamcolored rugs for caramel-hued oor coverings, injecting more warmth into our surroundings. It feels right.”
However one might de ne Brooke Schwartz’s con dent design sensibility, she has created a nursery where anyone would enjoy spending time beyond changing, nursing, resting, reading
and rocking, whether you’re the couple’s Pomeranians—Pumpkin and Cupcake—a beso ed dad, an enchanted mom, a newborn, a toddler, or a future teen and her friends.
“Kristen and I did the work upfront,” Brooke emphasizes, “and all Sco ie has to do is enjoy it in her di erent growing-up phases.”
But rst, the cozy family cherishes each moment spent in this sweet room with their bundle of joy.
Because baby nurseries often follow a typical theme, Brooke and Kristen reimagined the possibilities. “This room is a retreat for Mitchell and me to spend time with Scottie beyond rocking or changing her—and I wanted something out of the traditional box.” The room with a view starts with the RH convertible crib and large-format custom Mesonart piece hanging above it. The comfy
Beautiful Utility
Laundry Day isn’t (as much of) a chore in these two rebranded spaces.
Words by Andrea Darr | Photos by Brynn Burns
The laundry room: the must-have but, o en, the most unloved room in a house. We ask for it to serve one of our primary needs in life— clothing—yet we do it a disservice by making it a mishmashed catchall without its own personality, clu ered with misplaced socks and over owing household items. Maybe it’s time to rebrand Laundry Day as a “spa day for your clothes”—and match the environment to go with it.
Overland Park resident Tammy Horn had taken the time years ago to update her laundry room, painting the cabinets a sunny yellow and laying a pa ern of black and white penny tiles on the oor herself. But those cabinets had been made to t from her previous kitchen.
“It was just a space that had never been properly designed,” she says. “It functioned for 15 years where I had stacked clothes where the double oven
An original stained-glass window from the early-1900s Foursquare house served as inspiration for the commissioned artwork, Shine Your Light, by Susan Righter. A touch of black in the frame and the light fixture serve as grounding points in the refreshed space. Cabinetry is in Farrow & Ball’s Drop Cloth, paired with Carrara marble countertops and backsplash.
used to sit. For a rst- oor space, it didn’t feel perfected or tailored.”
It might have stayed that way had an unforeseen incident not forced a renovation. A water leak damaged the ceiling below, and while it was exposed, Tammy and her husband decided to rethink that whole corner of their house, including their laundry room.
“It’s the rst room you see—everyone comes in through the side door,” Tammy notes.
She hired trusted con dant Kisa White of KPW Designs to help rede ne the intimate space with purpose and aesthetics in mind.
“I wanted to create a space that I wanted to enter,” Tammy notes.
The Horns are only the third owners of the historic early 1900s Foursquare-style house and have remodeled several spaces over the years. This was the one space that had been le behind. But there were three obvious keepers: a stained glass window and transom, along with the painstakingly laid penny tile oor. Everything else was up for auction.
“We had conversation a er conversation about what was needed,” Kisa says. “My job was to ensure all those elements were there while still making it beautiful.”
The washer and dryer were elevated into armoire-like cabinets, with a pull-out tray below for easily scooping laundry into a basket without
bending over.
The island doubles as a folding table and a wrapping station. Tucked underneath are a foldout drying rack and more storage.
“It was all intentional planning,” Kisa says. “We spent a lot of time on the speci cs.”
Kisa and Tammy collected and counted items that would go in the space, measured them and made a space for them. Tammy didn’t know how many rolls of tape she owned until she’d had a look at everything piled together.
“There are things you have and don’t know what to do with,” Tammy shrugs.
In her home, the mantra now ts: A place for everything and everything in its place. Sandwich bags, gi wrap and dog food have designated spots. Standard over ow items, like the crock pot and the food processor, found a home, but Tammy’s needs went even further than that.
“What about my oversized electric roaster that I use once a year?” Tammy asks.
And the percolator for hot cider? Space for canning supplies? The old family video recorder? It’s all hidden behind beautiful cabinetry custom-built by Ryan Parks of Parks Cabinets. And still, the Horns have drawers that are not yet lled.
Every visitor comments positively on the color choice, Farrow & Ball’s Drop Cloth, a taupe that changes color throughout the day. Kisa and Tammy selected sturdy, scaled-up hardware that Kisa calls the ‘jewelry’ of the space.
“Kisa says a li le bit of black should be in every room, and I think that’s right,” Tammy adds. They included that touch in the light xture and the framed art.
Kisa also replaced the makeshi remnant granite tops with Carrara marble tops. They brighten and modernize the space while looking timeless and appropriate for the house’s style.
The washer and dryer were elevated in both senses of the term, inset into a wall of cabinets with storage drawers and pull-out trays for laundry baskets below them. The island acts equally as a folding table and a gift wrapping station.
Specialty inserts make these cabinets super functional. From top to bottom: a fold-out drying rack from Rev-a-Shelf; a pullout tray for dog food; and dividers for gift wrap rolls and slots for party bags.
Interior Designer: Kisa White, KPW Designs
Resources: Page 274
A stained-glass transom above a set of French doors makes an inviting entrance into the new bright and open space.
Graceful in Blue-Green
Photos by Ma Kocourek
For homebuilder and designer Lauren Browne of Grace & Nell Homes, the laundry room was a high priority in her 2024 Artisan Home at Mills Ranch. In fact, the idea blossomed into a beautiful, multifunctional space that she had wanted to try out for some time.
“As a woman builder, I do my projects based on how I’d like my home to function if it were mine,” she says.
Inspired by her own cra y kids, Browne wanted to split the space between the chore of laundry and the fun of art.
“They’re maker space kids; they’re constantly doing things,” she notes.
In this second- oor space, light oods into an open room that Browne recognizes is “de nitely not cramped.”
The exterior design is to thank for that. The elevation created this oversized room inside that wasn’t quite large enough for a bedroom and bath. The windows divide the room asymmetrically, so one wall is wider than the other.
Browne ruminated on this factor: “How do I balance all the functionality without making it feel strange?”
Then the idea hit her: “I need to use a galley kitchen concept.”
One side of the room is dedicated to laundry, with a stacked washer and dryer unit, a built-in drying rack and a sink. On the other side, a desk space sits next to a built-in gi wrap station and oor-to-ceiling storage.
This pretty utility room flows with the English Arts & Crafts style of the house. With walls papered in a floral print from Thibaut—sourced through Nell Hill’s—the cabinet color was custom-matched in a soothing gray-green with blue undertones.
A starburst fixture from Relative Lighting adds a touch of glam to the naturally well-lit room.
In her own household, Browne’s kids do their own laundry, so the combination room becomes more about them and how they’d like to use it. A pair of chairs at a builtin desk could be used for crafting or homework. Hanging rods installed in the open cabinetry next to it makes gift wrapping a cinch.
The concept works exceptionally well with a multipurpose wood-topped island on castors that oats between both spaces. It can be used for folding laundry, wrapping gi s or ge ing creative. Handily, it measures the exact height of the base shelves to make an even surface when pushed to one side.
Browne worked for months with her cabinet maker, Miller’s Custom Cabinets, to fully customize the storage, which consists of a mix of open and closed cabinets.
“I love having storage baskets to easily pull from, so I wanted some open but also some closed to hide all the junk,” she explains. “The right side has functional storage for days. We all have odd things that we need in our lives, but where do they go? Here.”
With paintbrushes and detergents properly hidden away, Browne could then focus on the aesthetics.
A starburst pendant at the center of the room adds a visual punch to a space already lled with natural light and several canned lights. A reclay sink by House of Rohl paired with a shiny bridge faucet is set into an English marble countertop.
“It’s keeping with the vibe of the house,” Browne says.
Thibaut oral wallpaper with a custommatched gray-green paint color for the trim and cabinets makes the most striking—and memorable—statement of all.
“It makes a dreamy room,” she says.
Builder/Designer:
Grace & Nell Homes, @graceandnell
Resources: Page 274
A Clean Start
Arrow Cleaners—now Arrow Home—points in a new direction of elite home care.
Words by Andrea Darr
You’ve purchased your dream house and lled it with beautiful furnishings. You also want to ll it with life: friends, kids, pets. That can make it challenging to keep your house looking new and fresh. Life’s precious moments sometimes add color where it wasn’t before—a crayon stain on your couch, leaf impressions on your outdoor cushions, or a wine splotch on your living room rug, courtesy of the dog’s happy tail wag.
Unfortunately, worst-case scenarios happen, too—an una ended candle can catch a room on re, or sub-zero temperatures might freeze and burst your pipes, ooding your house.
Who do you call to x it all?
“We want to be the solution for when anything happens—like a rst responder for your home’s
most valued items,” says Fabian Benito, owner of Arrow Home.
First responders with white-glove service, that is.
Since 1914, Kansas Citians have known Arrow Cleaners as a specialty textile service—the dry cleaner to the dry cleaners, as they say. The company is widely known for its leather and fur restoration and wedding gown preservation.
In 2020, Benito bought the brand from the founding Gershon family because he saw something unique in the brand and its approach. The company exhibited values of cra smanship, respect and accountability—the same values shared by Benito. He is building on that reputation and transitioning the business to serve more
Neely,
“I was returning to Kansas after living on the East Coast for 40 years. Maggie Doolittle is the utmost professional and was efficient and respectful with my time when visiting to view homes. She listened to my needs regarding location, services, and lifestyle and found the perfect home for me. And it didn’t stop there…Maggie’s knowledge of services and recommendations of people was extremely helpful pre- and post-move. I am elated with my new home!”
Mary J.
I’ve
hundreds
than just the community around the 39th Street location —it is now one that can handle all the pressing details of a household.
From core services such as valet dry cleaning and laundry to carpet, ooring, furniture and drapery cleaning and even restoring homes and their contents a er natural disasters, Arrow Home can provide all the ancillary services that homes and homeowners require.
Family is of utmost importance to Benito, who recently became a father and changed the way he views—well, everything—but certainly who he
allows into his home. Benito wants to bring back trust in a company—the way customers used to feel about businesses.
Arrow Home is his solution, emerging as the all-encompassing provider with concierge-like customer care. It’s a holistic approach that caters to those who want a well-maintained home without worrying about how to check all the items o the list. Benito has been hiring a team to execute the expanded services to a high level alongside him.
“It’s a good pivot for a dry cleaner,” Benito
says. “It’s a big transition, but we are taking the excellence we are known for and applying it to the home.”
Arrow Home will also travel in situations where large-scale help is needed. Last fall, Benito spent a month in South Carolina a er Hurricane Helene to help families rebuild homes and refurbish items.
It returns to Benito’s emphasis on families and treating customers well, especially when they’ve been in a traumatic situation.
“It becomes a therapy situation,” he notes. “People are devastated and upset, and it’s crucial to have the right people in place.”
Helping others is part of the brand vision, including bringing talented small-business owners into the fold, such as a reman with a side gig as an excellent window cleaner or a Christmas light installer.
“We don’t want to be everything to everyone, but we are accessible,” Benito says. “Our focus is on giving people back their time so they can move away from the day-to-day grind.” www.arrowfabricare.com
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The Hudson 1.5 Story by Doyle Construction Company LLC
KANSAS CITY DOWNTOWN LUXURY
1812 SUMMIT STREET, KANSAS CITY, MO
Discover this ultra-luxury new build by Hickok Homes, set in the heart of downtown Kansas City. Just steps sfrom the Power & Light District and Crossroads Arts District, this 4-bed, 4.1-bath masterpiece with a 3-car garage merges modern elegance with urban convenience. The fl oating entry, skylights, and fl oor-toceiling windows fl ood the space with light. A stunning 14-foot quartzite island anchors the Thermador kitchen, and heated fl oors in all bathrooms add yearround comfort. With a rooftop deck option and pre-construction for an elevator, this home is designed for both style and future convenience.
JAMES HICKOK - 913-906-5400
4 BR / 5 BA / 3-CAR GARAGE
Modern artwork of varying sizes lines the perimeter of the dining room like a gallery, while a stately Georgian buffet and chandelier add historical gravitas.
Presidential E ect
A Georgian Revival is sensitively reimagined, revitalizing a Saint Louis-area legacy.
Words by Meg Hilburn | Photos by Chris Douglas
He’d driven by the historic beauty with the Corinthian columns for years, smi en with its classic architecture. Though it had sat vacant for 13 years, Terry Crow, current mayor of University City in Saint Louis, was called to be its steward. This decision would revive a Saint Louis legacy—the Rand Mansion.
The home, designed by renowned architect Theodore Link in 1911, is immediately commanding—in fact, it could be described as presidential. Past visitors include former presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson. When Crow bought it, it admi edly needed a ention. But he jumped in, knowing he wanted to make it home.
Considering Crow’s roles as mayor, a orney, business owner and father, “home” needed to function as a multi-use space for a variety of scenarios, including raising two kids, lively social entertaining, and at times, political fundraising. He wanted to create a space that was true to the architecture and the history, while also making it very livable and welcoming.
Brown found the bronze bust of an African slave tucked behind layers upon layers in an antiques store. He gave it a place of elevated prominence in the dining room.
Home Tour
Video With Will Brown.
Enter Will Brown of Will Brown Interiors, who is known for embracing bold color and pa ern in his designs, yet also for carefully balancing the brave moments with soothing harmony by applying the principles of Feng Shui. His unique balance of warmth and comfort juxtaposed with drama and esprit de corps quickly became the steady guiding force behind the design.
Brown’s thought process starts by mapping out the ow of energy in a space. The impetus for “The Rand’s” vibe stemmed naturally from the dynamic color pale e inspired by Crow’s art collection. However, Brown knew this energy would need to be anchored with a calm base and sophisticated layering. So, he created a clean canvas of warm and creamy neutrals for the walls and ceilings. Next, he designed stunning 10-foot-
long window treatments uni ed with a tailored Greek key lead edge detail.
Clean-lined furniture pieces mix with imaginatively reupholstered vintage accents throughout, juxtaposing enduring comfort with moments of serious drama. Subtle pa erns and textures layer in to create a cohesive aesthetic that is interesting but never overwhelming. Brown’s master styling shines through accessories and artwork perfectly placed. A calm ow can be felt as one moves through the house from the traditional center hall.
To the le , the vast rectangular living room allows for conversation and entertaining to happen simultaneously through distinct zones.
“There’s so much to see and experience here,” Brown says. “It’s so large. Zoning provides
Theodore Link is best known for being the architect of St. Louis’ Union Station, Louisiana State University, and the Mississippi State Capitol.
Three of Theodore Link’s private residences built on Delmar Boulevard in University City, St. Louis, are on the Historic Register of National Places.
Empire chairs, a mid-century modern coffee table, reimagined vintage sofas and mid-century hide chairs invite conversation and comfort in the main living room.
The Japanese ceramic vase features an authentic patina. “Nothing can replace the feel of something that is real,” Brown affirms.
intimate areas that invite guests to connect and converse, and also space to play.”
In the music zone, Crow’s grand piano is ready for impromptu performances during gatherings.
In the seating zone, matching sofas in luxurious charcoal pinstripe and fawn velvets invite conversations.
“Matching sofas bring balance into a space,” Brown explains. “They allow everyone to feel equally included.”
The vibrant colors in the artwork—bold teal, rich reds, copper and gold—are echoed by the accents, creating a cohesive, dynamic pale e. Plentiful accent chairs ensure there’s always room for one more.
Two vintage curved-front Baker sofas were given new life by recovering them with pinstripe charcoal velvet fabric. Brown says facing sofas subtly indicates equality among guests.
Crow travels and attends numerous auctions to find his treasures, such as the sandstone East Indian Goddess statue from an estate sale.
A portrait of Tupac Shakur’s Time Life cover stands on a vintage sideboard.
Just o the living room, the sunroom is bathed each morning in eastern light.
“The sunroom was designed to be a peaceful haven,” Brown notes. “The energy of the morning can upli your day.”
Two vintage ra an wingback chairs with plush red velvet seats add warm texture and invite the family to enjoy morning co ee, read or meditate. Charming vintage accessories and plants delight.
The facing dining room invites connection with welcoming, grounded energy. To create an atmosphere that could simultaneously host Taco Tuesday and pull o the grandeur of Rand Mansion, Brown selected a deep, rich hue—Sherwin-Williams’ Copper Mountain— for the walls.
“It adds drama and comfort to the feeling in the room, making it versatile for family meals and formal dinners alike,” he explains. In the evening, it glows under the grand crystal chandelier.
“The design of the home as Will created it works so well with how we live our lives,” Crow shares.
“We can accommodate up to 150 people for cocktails, but at the same time, have an intimate evening with a few friends in one of the si ing areas. I’m amazed that an architect in 1911 built a home with such incredible open architecture on the rst oor. When the sunlight comes through the windows, the care put into making it a home just shines.”
Interior Designer: Will Brown Interiors, @willbrowninteriors
The grand piano stands at the ready for spontaneous play time in the “music zone” at the far end of the formal living room.
Empire chairs initially owned by the Block family were relacquered ebony and reupholstered with contrasting seat and back fabrics in rich jewel tones.
The juxtaposition of a Louis-style antique settee with rock ‘n’ roll upholstery perfectly exemplifies Crow’s sensibility in the music zone.
Let the sunlight in! The pear green sunroom features a green marble basketweave tile, rug by The Rug Studio and vintage rattan chairs.
Ramsey Interiors is winding up 22+ years in the design industry and will only be taking on limited projects. Thank you to all my past clients your trust in my abilities humbles me. I am forever grateful for the fond memories I have of working with you.
Interior Design is a team sport and I appreciate all the vendors, showrooms and contractors that have made our clients visions come together.
It has been my pleasure to work with the local print media, photographers and members of the Kansas City design community. Your support and camaraderie has been the icing on the cake of my career!
Keep designing- “It’s gonna be Gorg”
Kathleen Ramsey Allied ASID, CAPS
Overgrouting the stone helped to showcase the rustic nature of the full stone backsplash. Floating wood shelves pop against the neutral backdrop artistically styled with a limited-selection color palette of white ceramics, brass accents and a still-life artwork.
IN2020, Stacey Neely and her partner purchased this home in Fairway Estates as a stepping stone for the couple’s approaching empty nest. As Neely says: “Great location, great bones, basic box.”
To increase the home’s value and make a big impact while keeping in line with area home values, the couple decided to renovate in 2022. As an interior designer and project manager, Neely was fully equipped to organize the project. The rst issue the couple tackled was increasing connectivity, and they removed an entire wall that sequestered the kitchen away from the living room and entry.
“We created a lot of the visual interest with be er visibility,” Neely says. “We removed one wall, opened up the kitchen to adjacent spaces and removed an entry coat closet to enlarge the dining room and connect to the kitchen.”
Those few changes allowed for be er visibility of the large windows and higher ceilings from the newly-adjacent spaces and made be er use of previously unusable space. The couple also gu ed a small closet in order to create drywall return shelving, giving the room a clean, sophisticated look with extra storage. Cra ing an open feeling to the entire area with new access to light, the kitchen now shares sightlines with the living room, dining room and entry.
Stone Cozy
An exquisite use of stone remarkably upgrades a “basic box of a house.”
Words
Christine Emming
by
Photos by Josie Bene eld
Beautiful, unlacquered cabinet hardware, brass sconces and artful lighting accentuate the stone and open shelving.
Moving into the kitchen, the couple tackled a classic U-shape layout with a cozy eat-in area the Neely family simply wouldn’t use. In planning the redesigned space, they nixed the eat-in nook and added that square footage back to the usable kitchen space, changing the entire ow. The central, quartz-covered island includes the sink and dishwasher and adds more prep and serving space.
The range hood box is drywall with a microcement skim coating over the top. Extra storage was brought back into the kitchen by using tall pantry units with glide-out drawers. Open shelving in the over ow space o ers storage for wine and oversized cu ing boards. Beautiful, unlacquered cabinet hardware, brass sconces and artful lighting accentuate the stone and open shelving.
“We removed all of the upper cabinets to allow for the counter to ceiling stone backsplash,” Neely says. “This was a feature where I chose beauty over practicality. I believe it makes the space feel so much larger, so stunning and cozy.”
Neely and her partner DIYed the picture frame millwork in the dining room themselves. Picture lights and art in monochromatic tones further define the space while not calling out too much attention.
A bay window nook—common in many area homes—got an unusual treatment: a custom-shaped wood table.
A sliver of space that could easily have been walled off instead provides extra storage for cutting boards, a wine stash and easy-access decor items.
Neely was inspired to use the stone from a movie, The Holiday, where two women swap homes in an e ort to nd romance. A portion of the lm takes place in an English co age, and the stone walls really sparked Neely’s imagination.
“I wondered if I could pull it o in a Midwest home,” Neely says, “and I believed that I could.”
The couple chose an exterior sandstone, then made it waterproof with layers of sealant. Neely’s team used an over-grouting method, which draws a ention to the rustic t of the stones. A simple vinegar and water application wipes the stone clean, making the application as practical as it is lovely.
“We love the stone so much that we scrapped the replace-surround plan and used the stone from oor to ceiling there as well,” Neely says. “It just feels like home to me.”
A er a four-month renovation, the couple and their two adult children obtained the “livedin elegance” goal they originally aspired to. The newly opened spaces incorporate organic textures, earthy tones and natural materials, and an interplay of light ows between the rooms.
“Designing for myself brought such perspective on the experience that homeowners or business owners walk through during a renovation,” Neely says. “I’m more understanding of the important role of the designer/client relationship. So many moving parts, even with the best-made plans regarding budget and necessary changes in the plan.”
Interior Designer: NeelyHome, @_neelyhome_
Removing a whole wall that sequestered the kitchen away from the living room and entry improved visibility and made a more welcoming, interconnected space.
Ceiling and wall niches add depth and shadow to the ultra white walls—and provide nooks for clever storage.
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Ge ing Into the Grooves
Experimenting with plaster and Roman Clay makes a suburban home renovation sing.
Words by Christine Emming | Photos by Nate Sheets
Richly stained cabinets pull from the swirls of color in the marble backsplash.
The kitchen layout was reimagined for both beauty and utility. It extends from wall to wall, allowing plenty of space for congregating around a massive island. Jessica designed the Venetian plaster hood, one of many one-of-a-kind treatments in the home. Countertops by Central Surfaces.
Reeded plastering accentuates the wall opposite of the vent hood, another powerful design moment using the material.
“We always start by asking our clients how they live their daily lives and how they envision using each space once the project is complete,” says Nate White. He and his partner, Jessica, operate Trove Homes, a full-service design and build company. The couple spends a full day in the home they’ll be renovating, analyzing the home’s function and structural engineering rsthand before tackling its ow and aesthetic appeal. This practice is central to planning their strategy.
While this client’s home sat on a beautiful suburban lot, its dated interior and stilted layout made no sense to the Whites. The homeowners wanted a bespoke space tailored to entertain guests who, like themselves, work in the home remodeling and new-build industries.
The home’s ow was disrupted by a centrally located staircase, and an o -center replace cramped the living space. Relocating the staircase to the back of the home opened up the living area, allowing natural light to pour in from the expansive windows. A custom handrail with brass details became an instant focal point for the entire main oor. The staircase shi also created space that the team used for a butler’s kitchen with so ly arched openings.
Now the kitchen opens up to a pergola-covered deck, breakfast nook, locker boot bench, and two hall areas leading to the new prep kitchen and the pantry. The new hardwoods ow seamlessly from the kitchen into surrounding spaces. On-site, Nate hand-made transition strips with a li leknown technique that allows a seamless ow from the hardwoods to the taller Arto tile.
The new prep kitchen features custom handmade Arto flooring and leathered Taj Mahal quartzite.
A pergola off the kitchen softly dapples light into the adjacent breakfast nook.
The shape of the vent hood is gently suggested in the dining room chairs and the railing that floats across the upper level.
Nate drew the hood idea by hand then helped frame it on-site.
“Working closely with some of our subs, we used thin concrete board as a substrate over the framing and then applied multiple layers of premixed Venetian plaster on top,” he explains.
The Venetian plaster hood design weaves together the essence of the home, while a striking knife edge on the island inserts a counterpoint of masculine energy. Custom, bronze-mirrored cabinet door panels in the kitchen and prep kitchen add a sense of spaciousness. The rich stain color stands out against the muted flooring, and the island’s mossy undertone lends an earthy vibe.
The powder bath now has an integrated sink with precision cuts in Calacatta Viola marble by Dimensional Stoneworks, contrasted by black Roman Clay walls. Artisan-crafted sconces, vintage push-button light switches and antiqued mirrored glass complete the look, adding to the luxurious ode to the past.
“The reeded plaster was something we dreamed up… There were no inspo pics for that.”
~ Builder/Designer Nate White
“The reeded plaster was something we dreamed up, so the homeowner had to put some trust into us being able to pull it o ,” Nate says. “There were no inspo pics for that part, speci cally.”
A er showing hand drawings to the local plaster company they’d used in the past, Nate and Jessica were referred to third-generation plasterer Mike Ballerini of Ballerini Plastering, who agreed to take the project. This was the rst time a Kansas City artist had cra ed such a piece, and the result is truly stunning. For cohesiveness, they also used reeded plaster in the kitchen, framing a custom brass insert above the bu et area.
Additionally, they used oversized plaster crown molding in the breakfast nook to help pull in the reeded plaster replace around the corner in the living room.
In place of the former staircase, a central fireplace creates a striking focal point—inspired by a conglomeration of inspiration pictures and hand drawings until the imagined design was crafted.
Below: Relocating the staircase instantly improved the floor plan, and its new railing upleveled the aesthetics with its curves and brass detailing. Handrail made by Austin Ironworks.
In the powder bath, a custom Calacatta Viola marble vanity takes center stage. This warm-toned vanity was designed with painstaking precision to fit the limited space, and its vertical cuts echo the home’s artisan plasterwork. Using Roman Clay on the walls adds an organic warmth and curbs the austere look.
“Cohesiveness between spaces is paramount at Trove Homes,” says Nate, noting that the team uses plumbing fixtures, lighting and cabinet hardware that gel together to create a gorgeous, unified whole.
Contractor/Designer: Trove Homes, @trovehomes
Resources: Page 274
Sweeping sheetrock corbels elevate the entry to the dining room, while a custom mural creates a deeper invitation to sit down and dine.
Fairway
Friendly
This luxurious lanai beats par for indoor-outdoor livability at Loch Lloyd.
Words by Andrea Darr
Photos by Josie Bene eld
New home builders are well aware that outdoor living spaces are a top priority for buyers today. Decks, patios, screened-in porches and lanais are all in high demand. Willis Custom Homes understands this trend and makes outdoor living a key component of every home they build.
The Clydesdale oor plan is one of the company’s most popular designs.
“There’s a freshness to the oor plan,” says owner Patrick Willis. “It’s versatile and has huge entertainment value.”
In their 2024 Artisan Home version, Willis, along with interior designer Betsy Judd, took the Clydesdale’s indoor-outdoor connection to the next level.
“It partly backs up to Hole 8 of the golf course at Loch Lloyd, so we had room to make the outdoor space bigger,” Willis says. “We felt compelled to expand it.”
But the full appeal truly starts from the main indoor living spaces, where a backlit crystal bar makes a standout presence. It’s across from the main kitchen and adjacent to the living room, keeping a tidy tra c ow for guests who are bound to drop in.
The living room is a warm invitation to sit by the re.
“The designer did a great job with the pale e in that room—it’s moody,” Willis describes. “We didn’t want this all white and cheery; it has a bit of an edge.”
Judd selected trendy white oak—but ri -sawn, which has a cleaner pro le than the popularized version seen in the Modern
Farmhouse tradition. She also used walnut, such as in the walk-up bar, to elevate the pale e and bring contrast to the light walls.
Two sets of slider doors o er multiple access points to the covered patio.
“You have the ability to open up the doors— and, hey, we aren’t in Arizona—but it feels like it’s a continuation of the house,” Judd says.
The same tones, comforts and sounds continue outside. Judd’s intent was a biophilic space lled with natural elements, including Kansas limestone, natural- ber furniture and po ed plants. Overhead, outdoor-grade wood is stained in the same ashy tone as the living room, while on the oor, travertine tiles create
In this open living and entertaining space, Willis points out the dynamism among elements.
Quartzite countertops, a lit crystal bar backdrop, mixed metals and mixed woods offer contrast and intrigue to a base of white walls.
A second, smaller sliding glass door opens to the space from the kitchen for easy access to the outdoor grill station.
The living room seamlessly opens to the covered outdoor space through a double-wide sliding glass door.
An under-lit quartzite natural stone base and a backlit crystal mantelpiece are the perfect power couple for the living room’s gas fireplace. A vertical slat wall adds texture to this knockout nook.
a seamless transition from the covered space to the uncovered patio.
“It’s a more natural vibe and has a lighter feeling,” Judd describes. “It’s not pretentious, and you can feel comfortable si ing there drinking co ee or a cocktail.”
Willis Custom Homes always incorporates a screenedin porch in the Clydesdale, but in this iteration, it’s doubled in size, with retractable, motorized screens that o er open-air or bug-free options.
“It opens up to the patio with a linear re pit and waterfall as a backdrop,” Willis says. And of course, to those amped-up greens, where golfers can gawk while pu ing by.
Screens down, the lanai is protected from bugs and stray golf balls.
The ceiling is wired for infrared heaters, which quite a few of Willis’ clients opt for in order to use the space longer into the cooler months. Speakers integrated into the ceiling are tied into the whole-house automation system; there are also some disguised as rocks in the garden.
The outdoor kitchen is set up in what Willis calls a “California courtyard” for its open-air concept and a partial stone wall to procure privacy from the house next door. Outfitted with a Blackstone grill and plenty of prep space, it’s easily accessible from either the garage or the covered patio. A bonus to this location is the ability to keep supplies stored in the garage without traipsing through the house.
Topsider has arrived, and here is your opportunity to enjoy it. Rising from the world famous Topsider Nightclub, Poop Deck and Clown Restaurant adjacent to Hwy 54 Grand Glaize Bridge. Conveniently located near shopping, fine dining, and entertainment in the heart of Osage Beach. Lake of the Ozarks newest condominiums will stand alone because of their quality construction, and because each unit will have its own unobstructed, breathtaking lake views. Topsider Condominiums will consist of five story buildings, four community docks, club house, two swimming pools, plenty of green space and parking. Each unit will be 1,550 square feet, 3 BR | 2 BA, and will include top of the line finishes, appliances, an elevator to each floor, and screened-in decks.
When a neighborhood couple toured this home last summer, they were so impressed that they bought it.
“They, like a lot of people, love how much of an entertaining house it is,” Willis says.
The company continues to innovate and create stunning outdoor living spaces in each version they build. In fact, they are already in the planning stages for the 2026 Artisan Home, so stay tuned!
Architect: Bickford & Company, @bickymon
Builder: Willis Custom Homes, @williscustomhomes
Interior Designer: Judd Designs, @judd.designs
A waterfall just outside the seating area offers the serene sounds of trickling water within earshot.
A linear fire pit is an ideal amenity for keeping comfortable during long stretches of patio time.
SEAMLESS SOPHISTICATIO
A contemporary lakeside property in Loch Lloyd strikes
the
right balance
of indoor-outdoor luxury living
and communion
with nature.
Nestled along the serene shore of a pristine lake in Loch Lloyd, an intriguing scene of re ned living strikes crisply in white amid the foliage. Combining contemporary elegance with a harmonious connection to nature, the home masterfully integrates indoor and outdoor living spaces to create an unparalleled lifestyle experience.
Carefully balancing ease and luxury with the soothing colors and textures of the surrounding environment, this residence is more than a home—it’s a sanctuary.
“The design goals were clear from the outset,” says builder Bryan Cecil of Cecil & Ray Homes. “This home needed to be a sanctuary where the homeowners could live and entertain in the same expansive space while always feeling connected to the tranquil beauty of the lake.”
To achieve this, walls of windows frame the shimmering waters, bringing nature’s beauty into every corner of the home. Organic materials like marble, granite and white oak ooring were chosen to mirror the surrounding landscape, blending modern sophistication with natural warmth.
The backyard oasis offers a seamless transition from the indoor living spaces, featuring a pristine pool framed by lush landscaping and an inviting lounge area that maximizes the stunning lakefront setting.
Words by Meghan Craig
Photos by Carlson Home Photography
Interior designer Leann Lynn of McCroskey Interiors elaborates: “This home is inspired by its surroundings. Every design choice—from the calming neutral pale e to the layers of texture— was made to honor the landscape while ensuring that each space felt luxurious yet livable.”
The home’s most remarkable feature is its outdoor living area, which feels like an extension of the interior. Designed to be enjoyed yearround, the space invites e ortless gatherings and quiet retreats.
The lower-level patio nails the theme of seamless integration. Multiple sliders connect the house to this low-maintenance haven for relaxation and socializing. Central to it all is a cozy
re pit seating area sunken evenly with the edge of the pool’s turquoise water. A covered grilling station connects through easy-open windows to the sophisticated wet bar.
“The outdoor entertaining space was designed to feel like an extension of the home,” Lynn notes. “It’s luxurious yet low-maintenance, with thoughtful touches like durable materials and an easy ow between the indoor kitchen and the outdoor grilling station.”
Inside, the lower level is an entertainer’s dream. Most notably, guests can arrive via a staircase featuring a molded wood baluster, uncurling
Embodying relaxation and natural warmth, the sauna features light, custom-finished whitewashed oak paneling that creates an inviting retreat.
The lower-level bar features Negresco granite that ties in seamlessly with the home’s elegant selections. Minimalist, monochromatic cabinets maintain the clean lines of the home, but in a darker palette.
Above and below: The lower-level entertaining area exudes modern sophistication with bespoke finishes, plush seating and seamless access to outdoor living spaces—perfectly tailored for hosting in style or practicing one’s golf swing solo.
like a ribbon at the base. A marble landing then transitions into the warmth of white oak wood oors throughout.
“We wanted the lower level to feel just as sophisticated as the main oor while serving as a hub for entertainment,” Cecil says.
Point made.
Anchored by a stylish bar area swathed in marble, the space spreads out in two directions: one side features an enclosed seating area and media room, while the other transitions into a golf simulator and bar area. Lynn out ed the space with plush yet re ned seating. Phillip Je ries’ Hatchwork wall covering adds depth and texture, balancing the monochromatic pale e with tactile interest.
This level also features a home gym with a custom sauna.
And, of course, large sliding doors lead directly to the patio, ensuring guests can easily transition from the indoor lounge to the lakeside lanai.
Throughout the home, the emphasis is on ow. Open-concept layouts and large glass doors
Iron-and-glass panels and doors separate a seating area from the second kitchen and dining space, helping to create individual spaces in the expansive lower level.
An elegant staircase constructed of rift white oak and iron railings custom-made on-site by Austin Iron Works descends onto a Calacatta Vagli marble landing by Carthage Stoneworks.
The backyard oasis features an inviting lounge area, including a fire pit and weatherproof seating.
create a natural progression from one space to the next. The use of organic materials and neutral-toned paneling ensures that every room feels cohesive and connected to the outdoor environment.
“The mood throughout the home is calm and cohesive,” Lynn explains. “We used subtle layers of color and material to add depth and comfort, creating a space that feels curated yet approachable.”
The result is a legacy home that’s also a lifestyle. From the sweeping lake views to the seamless indoor-outdoor ow, every detail has been meticulously cra ed to enhance both form and function. Whether hosting an elegant gathering on the deck or enjoying a quiet evening by the re pit, the homeowners can experience the epitome of modern luxury every day.
As Cecil aptly puts it, “This home isn’t just about luxury; it’s about a way of life—one that seamlessly blends elegance, comfort and the tranquility of nature.”
It ful lls the homeowners’ vision of elegance, functionality and e ortless entertaining. With sweeping views of the lake and an architectural design that erases the boundaries between indoors and out, it’s a property that inspires both awe and aspiration.
From above, one can fully understand the scale of the project and its connection to its environment. The house’s clean, contemporary style is softened by extensive landscaping that merges with the tranquil waterside.
Along the side of the house, terraced landscape beds beautifully transition down to the outdoor living area.
MODERN
OA SIS
A transformative pergola o ers shelter from life’s daily storms at this poolside retreat.
Words by Meghan Craig | Photos by Skipper Films
“ We wanted to create destinations that encouraged the family to step outdoors and away from screens. This design o ers expansive spaces for celebrations and intimate corners for relaxation.”
~
Robyn Schmitz of High Prairie Outdoors
An architectural marvel, this adaptable pergola combines sleek design with cutting-edge functionality, offering year-round comfort at the push of a button. Perfect for alfresco dining, the outdoor table invites guests to gather and enjoy meals surrounded by stunning views and sophisticated design.
When the Windhausen family envisioned their ideal backyard, they wanted more than just an outdoor space. They dreamed of a sanctuary that o ered year-round comfort, seamless indoor-outdoor living, and an environment that fostered connection and relaxation for their family. Enter Robyn Schmitz of High Prairie Outdoors, whose innovative approach delivered a masterpiece that exceeds the traditional boundaries of outdoor design.
At the heart of this luxurious outdoor retreat is a state-of-the-art pergola—a structure that rede nes functionality and elegance. Designed and built by High Prairie Outdoors and manufactured by Renson, the pergola is not just a shelter but a fully autonomous living space. Its sleek European aluminum construction and thoughtful features allow it to adapt e ortlessly to any weather or season, ensuring the Windhausens can enjoy their backyard oasis year-round.
The pergola’s standout feature is its louvered roof, which can be adjusted at the push of a bu on to provide shade, ventilation or complete closure. Glass walls surround the space, o ering unobstructed views of the pool and lush landscaping while providing protection from the elements. Hidden within the structure is a full bathroom—a custom creation by High Prairie—as well as integrated heating and lighting systems, making it a haven of comfort no ma er the season.
“This isn’t just a pergola; it’s an unconventional pool house that adapts to the Windhausens’ needs, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal,” explains Schmitz. Thanks to its durable materials, including extruded European aluminum and Renson’s Loggia
panels, the structure requires minimal upkeep and is built to last for decades.
Complementing the pergola is a multifaceted pool and patio. The design features a four-sided in nity spa, a Baja shelf, a six-fall waterfall wall, and an in nity edge that cascades into a sunken re pit area. This multi-level design not only creates a striking visual impact but also o ers a variety of spaces for relaxation and socialization. From the integrated steppers connecting the spa to the Baja shelf to the soothing sound of water owing into the re pit area, every detail invites the family and their friends to unwind.
The re pit itself is a marvel of dedicated space, nestled below the in nity edge and surrounded by built-in seating with turf inlaid between the patio pavers. It’s an intimate space where the family
can enjoy the warmth of the re while listening to the gentle cascade of water above.
The Windhausens’ retreat wouldn’t be complete without the lush landscaping that ties the space together. Behind the pool’s waterfall wall, multi-layered garden beds feature a thoughtful mix of columnar hornbeam, clipped boxwood hedges, liriope, owering shrubs and perennials. This transitional design style ensures that the landscape will remain vibrant and inviting throughout the seasons.
“The layered plantings add depth and texture to the space, creating a seamless blend between the built elements and the natural environment,” says Schmitz.
To further enhance the ambiance, a robust lighting system has been integrated into the
With its infinity spa, cascading waterfalls and sleek modern features, the pool creates an inviting oasis for relaxation and recreation. Nestled beneath the pool’s infinity edge, the sunken fire pit offers a cozy retreat surrounded by the soothing sounds of cascading water.
design. Controlled via the family’s home automation system, the lighting highlights the structure, pool and landscaping, creating a stunning visual e ect that’s equally captivating from the patio and the home’s interior.
Adjacent to the house, the Windhausens added a full outdoor kitchen designed for both intimate dinners and large gatherings. The kitchen features Unilock SiennaStone wall construction and Black Pearl granite counters, combining durability with sophistication. The expansive pool deck, made from Unilock Beacon Hill Smooth XL pavers, includes a hidden drainage system to maintain a pristine appearance.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this project is the streamlined process that brought it to life. While most outdoor projects of this scale require coordination with more than a dozen contractors, High Prairie completed it with just ve. This e ciency resulted in a smoother process and a timeline that Schmitz proudly says is 40 percent faster than the industry average.
The Windhausens’ backyard is more than a collection of beautiful features; it’s a testament to thoughtful design and cra smanship that elevates everyday living.
Whether relaxing in the spa, dining under the pergola or gathering around the re pit, the space o ers a perfect balance of luxury, functionality and connection.
“We wanted to create destinations that encouraged the family to step outdoors and away from screens,” Schmitz says. “This design o ers expansive spaces for celebrations and intimate corners for relaxation, all tailored to their lifestyle.”
Landscape Designer: High Prairie Outdoors, @high.prairie.outdoors
Resources: Page 274
Complete with premium finishes and ample counter space, the outdoor kitchen is a hub for hosting gatherings both large and small.
The Windhausens, who envisioned a space that seamlessly blends luxury and function, enjoy the outdoor haven tailored to their lifestyle.
Elegant layers of columnar hornbeam, clipped boxwood hedges, liriope, flowering shrubs and perennials create a lush backdrop of seasonal color and texture.
simple, natural & elegant creating space within small spaces
It has been said, “A picture is worth a thousand words”. That is true and one would never know the full picture unless they knew where the story began. This townhouse interior renovation, the Aspen Glen, was gutted to the studs and rebuilt entirely new. Only two essential requirements were wanted. The first was to make it simple, natural and elegant. The second requirement: create space. The two level townhome was only 1200 sq ft. Style wise, Mountain Modern was a simple answer.
Mother Nature was the perfect solution to creating space within a small space. The addition of full floor to ceiling windows throughout framed the art of aspen trees directly outside. To modernize and light the space a floating acoustical ceiling was added with a 3” reveal.
Tunable and customized Ketra lighting was an important choice due to its operating system following the circadian rhythm of humans and how they experience indoor environments in this modern age. Adding to quality of life radiant heating replaced baseboard registers. Two great features that foster health & wellness for a retired homeowner.
Organization and concealed storage created more space. Custom walnut floating dresser and fabric wrapped platform bed with lacquer headboard surround created optimal and convenient storage. The existing ridge beams were refinished to contrast the soft cream plaster walls, walnut finishes and other brown-black accents in the home.
In the kitchen, a new steel beam allowed for the width to be expanded; making it more functional for the chef savvy homeowner. Horizontal straight grained walnut cabinets harbor secret storage spaces in this European style kitchen. And there is always icing on the cake with Lutron shades providing just the right amount of privacy in a semi-transparent fabric. Finally, at a time when homeowners are concerned about how much to invest in a renovation, the value of this home quadrupled when completed. Not to mention the priceless value of having a simple, natural, elegant and spacious home in which to live and entertain.
Builder: Helm Construction. Photographer: Matthew Anderson.
Builder: Walker Custom Homes Photo: Matthew Anderson Photography
Photos by Christine Caso
Photos by Christine Caso
A Westside home built for the 2024 Artisan Home Tour introduces a new perspective on luxurious modernity.
Words
by
Katy Schamberger
Photos by Ma hew Anderson
It’s hard to believe that empty homesites still exist in and around downtown Kansas City, but that’s exactly what James Hickok of Hickok Homes discovered in the city’s beloved Westside neighborhood.
The narrow site included a natural rock wall spanning one side of the property, o ering up parameters and creative opportunities for Hickok’s partner NSPJ Architects to play with. And they mastered the challenge, designing this dramatic three-story glass-walled home with multiple outdoor living spaces and city vistas. As soon as Hickok’s interior designer saw it, her creativity sparked, too.
“It’s such a beautiful view to look out on,” says Jenna Kaufman.
Kaufman frequently spends time in California with friends who work in luxury real estate and property rentals. She’s no stranger to upscale, modern Californian residences—in fact, they comprise much of her ongoing inspiration le.
A narrow yet deep (and empty!) homesite in Kansas City’s Westside neighborhood presented a number of design challenges, yet the natural topography—including a rock wall—offered a rare and enviable city setting.
Here in Kansas City, Kaufman had a chance to put those ideas and creativity inro action.
First, the team needed a oor plan—something that, as Kaufman explains, “hadn’t been done here before.”
“There’s a gorgeous home on Stradella Road in the hills of Los Angeles—the architecture of this Kansas City home is partially modeled a er that, plus another ve or six houses that I absolutely love,” she says. “I took aspects from each home and combined them in one design.”
Hickok wanted to build this home speci cally for Kansas City’s Artisan Home Tour, a biennial showcase of innovative, impeccably built custom homes. Without a homeowner client in the mix, the design team had more freedom to push boundaries while remaining true to a fundamental tenet.
“I’m really big on functionality,” Kaufman says. “The home needs to be livable. Everything you want in a home can be accomplished with thoughtful planning.”
A second patio extends off the primary bedroom, accompanied by a glass-walled rooftop deck that just might offer one of the best available views of downtown Kansas City.
In warmer months, main-floor sliding doors can be opened to create an effortless, circular flow. “This is a house to entertain,” Kaufman says.
A Fruitful Field Trip
With a 5,500-square-foot oor plan ready for construction, Kaufman took Hickok to one of the world’s most pivotal places for home designers: North Carolina’s High Point Market, a biannual showcase of on-trend furnishings and décor. Kaufman had a number of interior features in mind—several sculptural lighting xtures, for example—and wanted Hickok to experience the quality in person before making the investment. The home’s lighting is a mix of pieces from Hudson Valley Lighting, Visual Comfort, Studio M Lighting—and, in the central stairwell, an eye-catching installation custom-designed by Hubbardton Forge.
“I had seen the lighting xture that we installed in the stairwell a few years prior at market in a showroom window,” Kaufman says. “It’s just the coolest light, and
NSPJ Architects designed this elevated street-level entry for guests to arrive at in awe of the multifaceted facade.
Kaufman drew design inspiration from her time spent in Los Angeles and Calabasas, California, infusing the home with a West Coast modernity balanced by Midwestern warmth.
The kitchen is typically the hub of any home—and in this case, the kitchen is the center of both function and form. Each piece, including the sink, was intentionally placed to create symmetry, balance and also a line of sight into the adjoining living area. The quartzite island—itself a show-stopper—is extended by a cantilevered dining table and, on the opposing side, functioning cabinetry for ample seating and storage.
I had to nd somewhere to put it. As soon as I showed it to James, he agreed.”
As Kaufman continued to amass inspiration— both from that particular market trip and an ongoing le of 500+ images—she laid out the home over and over again to capture that allimportant blend of form and function.
“This house was my life for about 13 months,” she says.
‘A House for Entertaining’
While the team wanted to embrace a modern aesthetic, they also wanted to ensure each part of the home would feel inviting, not stark. Sleek lines and open spaces are tempered by a mix of wood that introduces both warmth and texture. Ten-foot ceilings throughout the main level— including unexpected places like the kitchen— infuse an airiness into the space, further
enhanced by abundant, oversized windows, including an entire glass wall that backs the multistory, cantilevered staircase.
A sometimes-overlooked part of entertaining isn’t simply how guests might use the space, but also how they’ll move throughout it. A subtle circular ow ebbs throughout the main level. Sliding doors easily blur the line between inside and out, giving guests more
Above and left: The dining room is privately cocooned, surrounded by the lush greenery and rock wall in the backyard and a slatted wood partition wall on one side that’s lit for added ambiance.
Yes, builders and designers have bucket lists, and creating a circular shower topped with a skylight was a goal shared by
Hickok and Kaufman. A rainforestinspired color palette and pebble-tiled floor add to the retreat-like experience.
opportunities to slowly dri from room to room.
Of course, every party needs a starting point, and it’s typically the kitchen. This home is no exception, boasting a dream kitchen anchored by a stunning focal point that Kaufman fought to include.
“This piece was a signi cant investment, but it’s the centerpiece—it makes the kitchen,” she says.
The quartzite island itself is stocked with hidden cabinetry and a sink placed for optimal sight lines into the home and the surrounding outdoor views. A cantilevered dining table extends from the island and is aligned with the home’s entryway axis, creating a subtle symmetry.
The kitchen ows into a butler’s pantry, an entertainer’s secret weapon to e ortlessly extend prep space and hide clu er. Stocked with a sink, dishwasher, icemaker, microwave and beverage drawers, the butler’s pantry is a sort of kitchen itself. Kaufman—ever the proponent of functional spaces—also seized opportunities to include thoughtful details that make a big impact. One example: a
next to the
slim, 6-inch wide cabinet
One benefit of a lengthy rectangular homesite? The ability to create expansive sight lines throughout the home, an advantage when entertaining or simply enjoying an effortless transition throughout living spaces.
Dual-level windows in the library were carefully planned to take in as much of the exterior view as possible.
A hidden closet in the bookshelf near the fireplace introduces whimsy and out-of-sight storage.
A cantilevered design flanked by soaring windows gives the illusion that the home’s central staircase is floating. Kaufman sourced most of the lighting through repeated visits to North Carolina’s High Point Market, including the staircase fixture, which had been on her wishlist for years.
refrigerator that hides a stepladder for easy access to bonus storage space in the top cabinets.
“This is a house to entertain,” Kaufman says. “The host can be at the island and see guests throughout the living area, on the outdoor patio next to the rock wall—everyone is connected while also having room to relax and be in the moment.”
A New Chapter Begins
When you have a blank canvas opportunity like this Westside home, it’s tempting to infuse a bit of whimsy, too. In the library, a bookshelf next to the replace swings open to reveal a hidden closet, the perfect spot to store holiday décor or turn into a kiddo-friendly hideout.
The home’s warm modern aesthetic continues into the primary bathroom, where wood casework and cabinetry blends with high-tech features like Kohler touchscreen-operated plumbing.
You’d never know from looking at the primary closet that it came together just days before the start of the 2024 Artisan Home Tour. Kaufman designed the island for multipurpose storage, including hidden laundry hampers and shallow top drawers built for jewelry trays.
A hidden-in-plain-sight door connects the primary closet with the laundry room, a convenience that Kaufman covets. “You take your pre-sorted laundry just a few steps, wash it, dry it, then a few steps back to fold it. That’s my dream!”
“I took a lot of things that I wish I would have put into my own home, functionality-wise, and tried to incorporate them as much as I could,” Kaufman says.
The initial verdict? The Hickok home was a smash success during the Artisan Home Tour, cementing the design and building team as leaders in a new chapter of residential design and construction that’s unfolding now.
“I was so impressed with so many of the Artisan Homes this year,” Kaufman says. “So many of them represent forward-thinking and it makes me feel really good about what’s happening in Kansas City.”
A collection of floating glass orbs adds to the drama of the Guggenheim-inspired staircase while also subtly reinforcing the multi-floor connectivity.
TAKING SHAPE
Once slated for demolition, a century-old Tudor home begins a new chapter in Mission Hills.
Words by Katy Schamberger | Photos by Nate Sheets
AS
you move through the stately, ve-bedroom Tudor home tucked within Mission Hills, you notice stunning focal points and intentional details at every turn. A four-story helix staircase connects every level in the house, part of a grand entryway that beckons with white oak herringbone oors. Warm wood mingles with textural stone; sculptural lighting is artistic and functional; and traditional Tudor features lend gravitas to modernized spaces. It’s hard to believe, then, that this previously gu ed home stood as an imposing challenge.
The century-old Tudor only had three previous
owners and, within the past several years, was slated for demolition. Then, longtime friends Adam Winters and J. Sco Emerson stepped in to purchase the home and renovate it from top to bo om. They looked beyond the gu ed, crumbling interior and saw the heady promise of possibility. They tapped the architecture team at Hoke Ley, drawn by the rm’s globally in uenced design perspective, to come aboard. Once the City of Mission Hills approved the restoration plan, Winters, Emerson, Katie Hoke and
“The clients pushed us to do something modern, so we looked to a lot of design in Australia—they lead the curve, and other parts of the world follow.”
~ Architect Katie Hoke
Kansas City-based builder Wooglin Brothers began work on the reimagined estate.
“We had a lot of restrictions to meet—for example, any part of the home exterior facing the street had to stay as-is,” says Hoke, a principal and one of the rm’s three founders.
Another signi cant challenge? Numerous windows, all of which couldn’t be moved or resized. Where others might have been defeated, Hoke instead seized the opportunity.
“When I rst toured the home, I knew it would be an amazing challenge,” she says. “I love restoring old homes—you have to be so much more creative, and they’re a lot harder of a puzzle to solve.”
So, what do you do when piles of puzzle pieces are sca ered in front of you? You pull up a seat and make a plan. Hoke and her team began thorough research of historic Tudor homes, especially East Coast-based, to understand both design principles and signature details.
A pale e of historically authentic materials emerged from that work, including dark walnut, marble-looking quartzite and a dark bronze hardware nish. With a thorough understanding of what came before, Hoke could then introduce her rm’s calling card: luxurious modern homes cra ed with an international design perspective.
“The clients pushed us to do something modern, so we looked to a lot of design in Australia—they lead the curve, and other parts of the world follow,” Hoke says. “The client wanted the home to honor the historic Tudor style but look like it wasn’t picked out of a showroom around the corner.”
Squashed between historic home requirements and city site plan restrictions, Hoke needed a
plan—literally. As work on the oor plan began, Hoke’s team returned to the fundamentals of home construction and envisioned what clients most o en request when they build.
“That led us to two big ideas—a kitchen large enough for gathering and combined with a living space to create a great room, because that’s how families live today,” Hoke says. “We also knew we needed one stair that connects the basement to the a ic rather than the three separate staircases that previously existed in the home.”
Emerson and Winters especially favored a modern staircase but eschewed typical design elements like glass or a cable rail. Instead, the team balanced past and present with a gently curving, four-story helix staircase that
In designing the kitchen, the team started with a question: what do clients ask for when they build a new house? A kitchen large enough for effortless gathering is usually at the top of the list. A combined kitchen and living space here creates a great room that’s more aligned with how families live today.
centralizes light and acoustics in a common connection point.
As Hoke navigated re and water damage and the home’s 100-year-old framing (standard sizes today are much larger), a ve-bedroom, sixbathroom layout took shape. A wholly reimagined kitchen invites gathering and conversation. Modern appliances are integrated amid frameless back painted glass cabinetry so that your eye is drawn to design, not storage. A oating walnut bar extends from the kitchen island, creating a convenient bridge into the living area.
Additional highlights include two new living spaces and what Hoke describes as one of the “coolest” parts of the home—a third- oor a ic transformed into a rec room and a fourth bedroom. The top- oor location shows o the home’s sloping roof lines, lending an architectural airiness to a previously unusable space.
Careful a ention to detail creates a striking impression, whether in photos or in person. A signature Tudor distressed arch that frames the
Three separate staircases were combined into a single, fourstory helix stair that gracefully connects the entire home while also introducing light and optimal acoustics.
Outside the home, especially the back yard, is “all about entertainment,” Hoke says. The spacious layout easily accommodates a variety of seating areas, a plunge pool and an outdoor kitchen, yet the overall effect is still one of intimacy and seclusion.
bathtub and shower in the primary bathroom echoes the home’s arched entryway. Carefully layered lighting includes under-counter and cabinet xtures. Fluted casework corners showcase individual pieces of gently curved wood, a Tudor hallmark.
“This home is all about the small details: the longer you’re there, the more you appreciate it and sink into the space,” Hoke says. “Noticing the details helps to create a more focused and intimate experience, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply relaxing at the end of the day.”
In many cases, those details combine for more sophisticated functionality, too. A new dumbwaiter—modeled a er the home’s original version—easily transports groceries from the lower-level mudroom entrance to the walk-in
Warm backlighting shows off the grain of the walnut wood paneling in the dining room. A coat closet transformed into a wine cellar that’s clad in a herringbone tile mimics the pattern of the entryway flooring, part of a custom flooring project created by U.K.-based Woodpecker Flooring.
The warm walnut of the fireplace surround is a fundamental element in the historic Tudor home’s materials palette. Not only does the wood balance the natural brightness of ample windows, it also helps create a sense of being enveloped in each room.
pantry. Details also become problem-solvers. Existing windows in the primary suite made a wall-mounted television impossible. The x? A remote-controlled screen that drops down from the ceiling as you sink into the plush bed for an evening of streaming.
What seemed like such a complex puzzle at rst—creating enviable bedrooms, bathrooms and living spaces amid unmoveable windows and other historic constraints—emerged as a beautifully gratifying nished project.
“Despite its original state, the experience now throughout the home is that no consideration or detail has been forgo en,” Hoke says. “It was the true de nition of a labor of love.”
Architect: Hoke Ley, @hoke_ley
An exquisite bathing area, complete with a soaking tub and a glass steam shower, simultaneously embodies grandeur and relaxation. The area is framed by a Tudor depressed arch that’s covered in locally quarried marble—another tribute to foundational Tudor architecture found in a part of the home you wouldn’t expect.
Hidden light—used so effectively throughout the house—softens a marble vanity that spans the width of the primary bathroom. Here, function is cleverly disguised: integrated medicine cabinets are tucked away at the side of each sink.
As originally laid out, the home lacked a primary suite, but the team was committed to creating a generously sized bedroom, bathroom and walk-in closet. While planning the space around the non-negotiable window openings, they infused elements like vaulted ceilings, a remote-controlled drop-down TV screen and a private roof deck to create a truly sumptuous haven.
The Year of Your Dream Home?
It’s not o en you read about a stunning transformation in the pages of designKC and have a chance to immediately make the home yours—until now!
The restored 6,511-square-foot, ve-bedroom, six-bathroom English Tudor estate in Mission Hills is for sale, priced at $6.65 million. ReeceNichols-Leawood’s Trent Gallagher is the home’s listing agent and says the reimagined estate represents an “unparalleled opportunity.”
“Speculative homes don’t exist in Mission Hills,” he says. “This is Tudor style for the modern age—museum design at a more accessible price point than what you typically see with new construction in this community.”
The restoration of this home introduces several signature construction and design elements, including the dining room wine cellar, the sunroom chandelier and ush baseboards.
“The scope of work involved in restoring this home is just incredible,” Gallagher says.
To inquire about a private showing, contact Trent Gallagher, ReeceNichols-Leawood, at (913) 439-7846 or trent@reecenichols.com.
The master suite’s walk-in closet mimics the ambiance of a luxury retail store, complete with floor-to-ceiling shelving and a grain-matched peninsula.
Video Interview with Trent Gallagher
The home’s exterior front entry is a mix of modern (the iron-and-glass front doors) and traditional (the portico architecture) that offers a hint of the design vibe inside. Landscaping by Embassy Landscape Group. Front doors are from PINKYS Iron Doors in California, and the lion statues are from Van Liew’s Home & Garden in Kansas City.
Colonial Icon
A century-old gem looks awless in a classic yet modern update.
Words by Cynthia Billhartz Gregorian | Photos by Ma Kocourek
karri and Chris Habiger had redesigned the interior of their 1911 home in St. Joseph twice since moving in 12 years ago. When they decided on a third go-around, they called in designer Amy Thurston and handed her a photo of a teal, hand-cra ed La Cornue range they’d just ordered. They wanted the home’s style to re ect the feel and character of the famous French culinary icon with its classic lines and brass accoutrements.
The Habigers’ artwork and vintage furnishings, combined with Thurston’s design touches, help accomplish that mission.
“Living in the house for the be er part of a decade—before we started this larger approach—gave us an appreciation for what we needed,” Chris recalls. “Our taste evolved over time as well.”
The Colonial-style home now feels classic yet modern—or shall we say, timeless—thanks in part to Thurston’s ideas, which included making sure the picture frame molding in the entry wasn’t crowded by artwork or furniture, that iron doors from Pinkys were indeed the right choice, as it had been Chris and Karri’s dream to use them, and that using Benjamin Moore’s China White
Designer Amy Thurston wanted the home’s historic architecture to shine yet blend with its more modern furnishings. She kept furnishings and decor simple and painted the walls in the foyer and living room Benjamin Moore’s China White, a soft vanilla shade.
Thurston replaced the home’s original wood pocket doors to both the living room and dining room with glass-and-iron doors to give the spaces a classic yet modern edge that’s consistent with the home’s furnishings, including the Eames lounge chair. The artwork to the left of the door is by Sage Barnes.
as the paint for the main body of the home would allow for more adventurous paint colors to stand out when used in other rooms.
“It’s a very warm white, without being yellow,” Thurston says of the la er point. “I use it a lot.”
The classic yet modern touches begin on the front porch with large iron-and-glass entry doors and the arched transom that crowns them. Their simple modern design plays nicely with the home’s traditional exterior and allows natural light to ood the interior. A black stone lion gazes toward a partner from either side of the wide stairway leading to the front door. In a rather whimsical gesture, each lion has positioned its front paws di erently.
Just inside the front entry, the original pocket doors that separate the foyer from the dining and living rooms on either side were also replaced with modernist glass-and-iron doors, both for style
Thurston created a moody, luxe feel in the dining room by covering its upper walls in Regency Tulip wallpaper by Liberty of London in colors that reference the teal La Cornue range in the kitchen. The wainscoting on the lower half is painted Farrow & Ball’s Berrington Blue.
consistency and to allow sight lines between all the spaces.
Thurston gave the family room, which gets a lot of natural light, a cozy feel by color-drenching the walls, ceiling and trim in Sherwin-Williams’ Greenblack.
“I love it so much because it transforms a space,” she says. “You change the nishes based on the material. Color drenching, done correctly, to my mind’s eye, is a satin on the ceiling and wood, and ma e—or eggshell in some cases— on the walls to either absorb or re ect light.”
Light from a pair of RH chandeliers that bounces o the satin ceiling provides enough moody lighting in the evening that lamps aren’t necessary, she adds. A caramel leather sectional contrasts with the dark walls and lls the center of the room. A game table is placed at one end of the room, while a pair of white swivel armchairs sit
at the other end.
“I call these two chairs ‘the ladies who like to spill the tea,’” Thurston jokes.
Black-and-white marble checkered oor tiles from Paris Ceramics add a traditional Euro touch to the room.
Doors on either end of the room open to the much lighter living room. Here, intricate mouldings on the walls and ceilings and a pair of large colorful Sage Barnes ower-head portraits ank an antique Baroque breakfront that had been with the Habigers for years. Thurston declared it the hero of the living room and selected so er lines for the rest of the furniture and design, allowing the piece to stand out and o ering a counterbalance to the replace on the opposite wall.
Chris says he and his family have a particular appreciation for this room.
“We love turning the replace on and having some quiet time there, especially going into fall and winter,” he says. “That’s one of our favorite places to relax.”
Thurston says part of her strategy when designing the home was to “edit, edit, edit” both in terms of decorative objects and paint colors.
“I didn’t want the home’s classic architecture, moldings and luxury ings to be drowned out by its furnishings,” she says. “So I kept things rather quiet for the most part and then added the occasional loud feature, such as wrapping the powder room in the Gucci Tiger Leaf wallpaper.”
She opted for a simple white custom replace mantel that is close in size to the original mantel. She also had bookshelves constructed with slanted shelves to showcase open art books.
Across the entryway, in the dining room, Thurston brought color into play once again
The subway tile backsplash in the inset cabinet matches the nearby La Cornue range. Custom Wood Products of Lenexa fabricated the walnut kitchen cabinets. The counters and backsplash are Luce di Luna quartzite.
“ We wanted to sprinkle in some fun surprise moments for the guest-facing areas.”
~ Designer Amy Thurston
Top: A hallway between the dining room and kitchen glows in backlit quartzite on one side and a glass-encased wine cellar on the other; it intersects with a mirrored bar with brass shelves. Bottom: The back hall offers a glimpse of the iconic La Cornue range; its set of lockers are color matched to it. Also in this space is a high-impact powder room sheathed in Tiger Leaf wallpaper by Gucci.
The soft vanilla walls of the living room contrast with the moody tones of the family room beyond. Thurston added additional mouldings to the home and kept the artwork and furnishings simple. The
by
Bianco Imperial marble mantel was fabricated
Carthage Stoneworks of Kansas City.
The Habigers’ antique Baroque buffet anchors the wall opposite the living room fireplace and juxtaposes nicely with the modern art and sleek lines of the other furnishings.
by opting to cover the upper walls in a Liberty of London wallpaper in muted shades of sage, gray and teal. The wainscoting on the lower half is painted Farrow & Ball’s Berrington Blue. The modern lines of the brass chandelier contrast yet sing against the wallpaper’s Arts and Cra s print.
Just o the dining room, at the back of the home overlooking the outdoor living spaces, is the kitchen, where the inspiration for the entire home— that La Cornue range—reigns in all its elegant glory.
The hallways to get there comprise showstoppers themselves. A back hall with access to the pool features a wall of built-in wood storage lockers painted teal to match the range.
Another is lined with deep drawers and an upper wall of translucent Luce di Luna quartzite that ows onto the countertop and continues onto the kitchen counters. The quartzite wall is backlit, highlighting
An abundance of natural light bounces off the dark glossy ceiling. The walls, trim and ceiling are the same color but different gloss finishes.
The checkerboard floor by Paris Ceramics lightens up the game room, which is color-drenched in Sherwin-Williams’ Greenblack paint.
Scan here to see the outdoor living space, featured in the Fall 2023 issue.
Thurston chose materials for the primary bath that are serene and consistent with the rest of the home’s design.
The primary bedroom’s Asian vibe is enhanced by the backdrop of the Tibetan Tiger print from York Wallcoverings. Modern glass pendants hang above light burlwood nightstands.
its veining and adding a glamorous glow to the hall. A climate-controlled wine room opposite it is separated by a oor-to-ceiling glass wall. It intersects with a bar decked out with a mirror backsplash and brass shelves.
“We wanted to sprinkle in some fun surprise moments for the guest-facing areas, as the Habigers love to entertain,” Thurston says.
Chris notes that they had to give up some space in the dining room to create this high-functioning hallway, but it was de nitely worth it.
“Whether we’re doing a more formal entertaining event, or we’re going to keep it casual and hang out in the kitchen, it’s just a perfect location,” he says.
Thurston continued the home’s limited color pale e upstairs in the primary suite, where a wall at the head of the bed is covered in a teal and gray Tibetan Tiger print by York Wallcoverings. Vintage Asian artwork, retro replace tile and a chinoiserie ceramic bust add personality and timelessness to the serene room.
“Karri has an excellent eye for vintage pieces and using these treasures makes the spaces feel like they evolved,” Thurston says. “That’s why I love collaborating, because the client knows their house the best, and they know the pieces that they love. I love being part of that conversation because then we make it work.”
Vintage Asian artwork and retro tile on the primary bedroom fireplace continue the home’s timeless-modern vibe. The walls are covered in Farrow & Ball’s Manor House Gray paint.
The downstairs living area gives off a Tuscan vibe with the rustic reclaimed beams and doors carried through the home and a decoratively carved Italian Baroque case piece. Thoughtfully styled, a set of contemporary Piero Fornasetti plates give a wink and a nod to 20th-century cool, while vintage objects interplay, such as a pair of Venetian champagne glasses and a collection of Florentine Sacred Heart ornaments. A new plaster bust with a crown adds whimsy. The brass wall sconces with black shades are by Arteriors.
Words by Susan Cannon | Photos by Nate Sheets
Noble Designs injects a fresh, whimsical spirit into a Tuscan-style villa in the lush, private community of Tomahawk Creek Estates.
ith an abundance of time and a well of creative verve, designer Sara Noble, with the help of colleague Yaneli Avila, embarked on a lengthy pleasure project for a former client: the interior makeover of a sublime, impressively authentic Tuscan-style villa built by Gene Fritzel Construction in 2006. The home is tucked away on a sylvan, undulating plot of land within the heart of Leawood, and the builders painstakingly sought out reclaimed architectural elements from European properties, adding to the dreamy allure of the home.
Downstairs, an exercise room was cleverly transformed into a chic pool bar with direct backyard access. Westport Glass fabricated the smoky mirrored wall. Gillpatrick Woodworks built the custom reeded cabinetry, and the marble countertops and island are by Carthage Stoneworks. The pendants are from Hudson Valley Lighting.
Noble created a considerably more comfortable and current downstairs living area that exudes coastal grandma chic. The original rustic French doors lead beyond the loggia to the lush backyard. An antiqued glass mosaic mirror from RH and a dramatic black chandelier by Arteriors add unexpected oomph to the space. The homeowner’s 19th-century Louis XV marble-top side table blends in perfectly.
The redesign project began in 2021, just a er the homeowners purchased the estate.
Because this unique villa would serve as a second residence for the couple, the luxury of uninterrupted time for ideating in the home’s original state allowed the designers considerable focus on creating what is the best yet from Noble Designs. Its feel is that of a private villa in the countryside that now re ects a casual elegance and cuts through any pretension of grandeur in favor of fresh livability within the authentically-built surroundings.
“I met the homeowner over 13 years ago when she rst hired me to design her twin girls’
bedrooms for their 13th birthday. It was the rst time a client said ‘yes’ to everything upon presentation,” Noble recalls. “The trust has grown from there, and our working relationship continued into a subsequent room-by-room home redesign. Recently, working on this ‘newto-them’ home has been a real treat. In the process, we grew a friendship that I treasure.”
Playing o the “fresh, stylish sensibility” of her client and friend, Noble eliminated the cliché Italianate decorative details throughout the interior. By today’s standards, they are unnecessary ourishes that date a home. Instead, she imagined a subtle blend of high-
The lines of the original built-in cabinets remain in the lower level, but Noble employed new brass cabinets to freshen the look. The homeowner’s taxidermy fits the rustic vibe, and Noble serendipitously paired it with a drawing of the owner’s father, who was with him on that hunting trip.
Plaster details remain in the dining room ceiling but are updated in Benjamin Moore’s China White for a more accurate representation of historic European interiors. Noble imbued the space with an antique gilded mirror, velvet dining chairs by Made Goods and large wicker urns (available through Noble Workroom).
quality custom furniture classics with cool contemporary elements throughout, all while respecting the rustic architectural elements that the husband was a racted to and that make the home so special.
With that mandate, the rst call to order was to remove the heavy wrought iron light xtures throughout and paint the entirety of the home in Benjamin Moore’s China White. Those moves opened up a clear path to a new vision that would bring inviting, breathable vibes to the home while keeping it timeless and instantly appealing.
“I am most proud of how we were able to respect the architecture, but at the same time create a dramatic di erence in the feel of the home. The updated nishes truly re ect the clients’ tastes,” Noble explains.
Indeed, a certain amount of bravery is required when making foundational changes to a home with lovely bones and architectural integrity. So Noble trod gingerly, reimagining most spaces on a surface level but overhauling two
The overhauled kitchen—with exception of the original hardwood floors and rustic, reclaimed wooden beams—showcases a custom pulley light fixture that Noble updated with large industrial bulbs. The custom cabinets were built by Gillpatrick Woodworks, the marble is from Carthage Stoneworks, and the brass hood was custom-fabricated by Gieske.
The design of the brass Regulator fixture by Waterworks was inspired by the industrial controls of the early 1900s.
critical rooms, including a much-needed kitchen renovation and transforming a banal downstairs home gym into a fabulous “pool” bar and lounge with outdoor access. It is clever, considering it will serve an anticipated pool area perfectly, once completed within the private, classically Italian landscape of one’s dreams.
A er the fresh white walls and ceilings transformation, Noble installed all new lighting to add air against the backdrop of stone walls and oors, wide-planked hardwoods, vaulted, beamed ceilings and ancient wall fountains reclaimed from European architecture. The great room, with its wall of French doors and cozy seating areas, replete with an extra large hidecovered o oman, feels like entering a decidedly desirable living room from a Nancy Meyers lm set, oozing with rustic charm.
The dining room features a blend of velvet, wicker, gold gilt and dark inlaid wood melding with heavy wool plaid window treatments, keeping the
The powder room received a moody makeover with a clean-lined custom Carthage Stoneworks marble vanity. The original stained-glass window reflects in a large round faux-shagreen mirror by Made Goods.
The original striped fabric wall covering was such a warm feature in the study that Nobel left it, while adding dynamic details to the space. She hired local still life photographer Nicki Griffith to capture some of the homeowner’s personal effects, such as his duck horn collection, hanging over a curved Jules cabinet by Highland House.
The villa’s front entry is intersected by a long window-filled hallway that feeds to the east and west wings of the home.
One gets the feeling of stepping onto a Nancy Meyers romantic comedy film set when entering the refreshed living room with light and comfy traditional furnishings, stone walls and French doors. Noble injected a nice mix of traditional furnishings with touches of mod in the chandeliers by Arteriors, the Kelly Wearstler sconces by Visual Comfort, and the white arched end tables from Highland House.
vibe easy. The mix feels so natural, yet it was clearly intentional.
Beyond the dining room, a return to the beamed, vaulted kitchen space feels like a natural progression, given an appealing make-under that’s easy on the eyes. In other words, the previously existing dark decorative ourishes were replaced with restrained custom millwork, a clean-lined brass hood, crisp white walls and marble countertops. The result is a much more approachable space to share with friends while cooking. The industrial pulley system light xture was one of a few furnishings le over from the original home, though Noble replaced its shades with large globe bulbs for a more modern yet authentic feel.
Noble elevated the primary bath by outfitting the original custom vanities with walls and counters in marble by Carthage Stoneworks.
Italian elegance reigns in the primary bath with its cathedral ceiling delicately trimmed in gold gilt and finished with a decorative Neoclassical alabaster pendant. A heavy 18th-century Italian Baroque case piece was originally installed by the builders in 2006; Noble appreciated its importance to the space and lightened walls around it. The mosaicstyle tile flooring is also original to the house.
The architectural details of the primary bedroom sing with charm. The seating nook’s wall of paned windows is subtly flanked by muted seafoam green curtains custom made by M&M Draperies. The accent chairs in a muddy green velvet are by Chaddock. The Kelly Wearstler brass and LED chandelier complements the rustic lofted ceiling with a touch of modernity. The Aerin brass sconces and the streamlined Ralph Lauren floor lamp add character to the nook.
A Kelly Wearstler lamp for Visual Comfort illuminates the front hallway at night.
There are some real magical architectural moments in the home, treated by the designers with thoughtful vision and care. For instance, the massive stone clock tower with airy, winding stairs leading to the lower living areas carried the heaviness of the Middle Ages, with imposing Medieval light xtures that, while beautiful in their own antique right, set a melancholy mood. Noble turned to the quality cra smanship of Ochre Lighting for a dramatic yet ethereal light installation. A delicate cascading Moonlight Murmuration xture with LED illuminated glass dances through the space; it is accompanied by two Beach Pebble sconces, also by Ochre Lighting, which ank an arched window with subtlety.
Architectural charm and beauty are found in the primary bedroom and bath on the rst oor’s east wing. A seating alcove beckons, nestled within an arched opening with sweet plaster molding cornices. Behind it, oor-to-
ceiling multi-paned windows overlook the back gardens. In the ensuite bathroom, a stunning cathedral ceiling with delicate gilded trim is swoon-worthy but does not overwhelm. The builders brought in two substantial centuriesold Italian Baroque case pieces, one for the primary bath and another installed in the living area downstairs. These remarkable carved breakfronts in dark walnut are unique and possess an element of seriousness that is played up with an air of whimsy.
Thanks to the eye of Noble Designs’ styling expert Brent Thompson, surprises are interwoven throughout the home, adding a distinct personality that appropriately counterbalances the traditional feel in the furniture, as well as the aged ambiance the architecture brings, all creating a party for the visual senses.
At the bottom of the winding clock tower stairs is a wine cave and an antique Italian wall fountain. The large blownglass vase on the wine-tasting table is a vintage find from the West Bottoms.
The villa’s clock tower received an ethereal uplift with the addition of the Moonlight Murmuration cascading light by Ochre Lighting, specially customized for the space. Ochre Beach Pebble wall sconces equally flatter the mood.
Noble transformed a coffee nook near the home office into a chic storage nook, with cabinets painted in Misted Green by Benjamin Moore and a vintage carved wood shelf with hooks for hanging coats.
The “treehouse” is a transportive, light-filled room just off of the living room, overlooking the home’s private forest land in back. Traditional seating is by Summer Classics.
Starrs FOR THE REACHING
A Modern Rustic ranch house in Bucyrus, Kansas, showcases the epitome of luxury and technology in new home design.
Words by Susan Cannon | Photos by Ma hew Anderson
Without a doubt, nighttime is when the split-level home shines, both literally and figuratively. With the 10,000-square-foot home’s smart technology, the (selected) lights, TVs and sound systems are in-sync to shut down together with a click of a button.
ith 25 years of experience, Gerry Starr, the owner and principal of Starr Homes, knows a thing or two about designing and building custom homes with modern amenities and adapting advanced engineering science to o er his clients worldclass living experiences.
Gerry and his wife, Debbie, had been thinking about a new family home for a while but had not found the right property to build on. Then, in 2020, the Starrs and two friends purchased a 330-acre tract of land on the gently rolling plains east of Bucyrus, Kansas. Construction began in 2022 on three unique estates across the property, and the homes were completed in time for visitors to walk through on the 2024 Artisan Home Tour.
The Starrs imagined theirs as a mix of modern and ranch architecture and knew they wanted the most advanced technology to be incorporated. Before breaking ground, Gerry and Debbie
The back corner view shows the two stories of paned glass walls. The upper corner is the primary home office, and just below is a high-end fitness room that includes a Sunlighten sauna.
The fully windowed, lofted entranceway runs directly from the front drive and sidewalk straight back to the swimming pool. It is made only more captivating with the entire back side of the home also prominently windowed.
The estate’s exterior shows a lot of architectural interest from the multi-surface materials to the steel-framed windows that make the home so inviting.
The Starrs’ intent to create a kitchen that’s open to symmetrical cooking and family dining spaces is accentuated by the lighting from Hinkley: lofted ring chandeliers and the linear lighting over the island and dining surfaces. The chevron pattern of the large white oak cabinet conceals the refrigerator and freezer. The stainless range hood can elevate into the ceiling’s soffit for unobstructed window views. The play of modern and warm materials that the couple loves is evident in the kitchen, which flows through the great room. The Montana reclaimed beams set the stage for authenticity. Added in is white oak millwork, an abundance of black metal, stone and the modern white surfaces. The industrial kitchen faucet is by Waterworks.
The expansive flow in the great room is designed for casual family time: connecting while cooking, dining and relaxing with tranquil views of the private property. The white linen Belgian Slope Arm slipcovered sofas are by RH.
Scan to watch the video featured on KCTV 5.
would bring chairs out on the land with co ee and a bo le of Bailey’s, just to take in the views and dream. They contemplated how they would live on the property, how the home should sit within the landscape and how the placement of windows could maximize their views of nature from every room.
“We love natural light and lots of windows,” Starr explains. They de nitely made that aspect come to fruition.
Upon arrival at their 10,000-square-foot, split-level estate, it is impossible to miss the home’s magni cent windows that o er grand views straight through to the verdant property.
Of course, the back of the house is equipped for entertaining—like a Midwestern Gatsby. The vista of green plains and trees surrounds a small, tranquil lake just a stone’s throw from the home’s multilevel outdoor living spaces. A large in nity pool is just beyond an entirely glassedin lanai with a large living and dining space that opens to the outdoors on two sides. The next level down has an Italian bocce court near a hardscape garden and re pit, complete with lounge chairs and small tables, ideal for sunset drinks with friends.
The home’s fully integrated smart-technology system covers a multitude of actions, from automating the heating under porcelain paver
An airy primary bath lifts the spirits with an abundance of sunshine flowing into the pristine white space that features large porcelain tile flooring. The Kohler sink and hardware add a modern, graphic element. The space is grounded by custom reeded cabinets in white oak and a black-and-white horse image from Leftbank Art.
A balance of stone and brick, along with the wall of windows, offers a breathable space while playing to a rustic aesthetic. The black steel RH bed is softened by natural bedding from Annabelle’s Linens. Bedside pendant lights are Nimbus 3 by Mariana Home.
oors to opening and closing a full glass interior wall panel that divides o spaces of the airy interior for privacy. In the open kitchen, a backsplash can raise and lower from behind the range to protect the wall of windows, and the stainless range hood can raise into the ceiling when not in use to make way for a full view of the front of the home.
“We also implemented lots of conveniences in many places throughout the house,” Starr says, referring to both high-quality, high-functioning features, such as full dovetail construction with full inset drawers and doors in the kitchen, as well as the installation of multiple fridges, dishwashers, televisions and so on throughout various areas of the home. “Even though it is a large-scale home, every space has a purpose, and every space is livable.”
Soon a er the couple fully conceptualized how the property would take shape, Starr hand-dra ed the design of the home on paper and then turned it over to Chris Castrop of Castrop Design Group to create the architectural plans and elevations.
Above and left: The large lanai is an airy living and dining space that opens up with full glass sliding doors to a view of the lake just beyond the hot tub, pool, bocce court and fire pit. The space is heated by smart technology, both under the porcelain paver floors and infrared ceiling heaters.
The main floor’s bar/media room has many bespoke textural features such as woven leather and metal mesh surfaces. The pendants are from Wilson Lighting.
He also enlisted designer Kendra Miner of Evolve Interiors to work closely on the project, especially on the selections of appliances, replaces, xtures and stone surface materials. A er ge ing a be er feel for the couple’s style, Miner began designing the main areas of the home using 3D renderings, including selected materials to present.
“There were so many aspects in the home that were unique, and executing some of the creative design concepts proved to be challenging but so gratifying to see completed,” Miner says. “Some of these included producing a woven leather backsplash wall in the bar and incorporating backlit metal mesh bar fronts and cabinet doors, as well as backlighting an entire wall, plus nding lighting that suited the vast home, including a custom light xture that dropped from the second oor down to the lower level.”
A highlight of the home is the 100-yearold beams that Starr personally traveled to Bozeman, Montana, to handpick from the Montana Reclaimed Lumber Company. Each beam weighed 800 pounds, adding complexity to the installation in the great room. Cleverly, the team fabricated a conference table and other unique furniture pieces from the le over cut beam sections.
Starr’s home o ce is further grounded in nature. First, its backdrop comprises two walls of oor-to-ceiling paned windows for views overlooking the valley. The room itself features a custom conference table made by Starr’s framer from a reclaimed beam and black steel with a glass top; it’s crowned by a custom xture made of slate and metal. One wall is tiled in black ledger stone and showcases an inset wood panel that Miner designed to abstractly emulate the peaks of a forest.
Gerry’s home office is filled with bespoke features. Evolve Interiors flexed their creative muscles ideating a unique linear light with sculptural slate pieces, as well as the inlaid walnut panel that they 3D-rendered down to the exact build and fit of the wood.
“Even though it is a large-scale home, every space has a purpose, and every space is livable.”
- Builder Gerry Starr
A light touch was employed in Debbie’s home office with custom built-ins painted in Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog. White-oak reeded cabinet fronts complement the Guanacaste wood veneer of the Lunas desk by Four Hands. Full views of the front garden by Next To Nature Landscape make working a pleasure.
“My wife and I love a mix of these textures: wood and stone with metal that provides a lot of warmth but is still modern,” Starr says.
This feeling is also pervasive on the expansive lower level that’s dedicated to entertaining. The wide-open space shares the many requisite, upgraded amenities, from a modern wine cave to a top-notch golf-simulator o ering 50 games. A stocked bar next to a decked-out poker table is a handy feature.
The same goes for the eclectic use of these materials on the exterior of the home. The subtle
mix of Wyoming snow fence—wooden boards constructed along expanses to prevent blowing snow—o ers a nice patina that works well with the use of stone and white wide-paneled siding. All of this is accentuated by the black steelframed windows that completely romance the property, particularly illuminating it in the evening and elevating the feeling of living with nature inside the home.
The illuminated tray ceilings elevate the downstairs entertainment area. The golf simulator offers up to fifty games. The bar area with floating shelves is set in front of the poker lounge with stone walls and beamed ceilings, complementing the industrial pendants on hooks and pulleys with a rustic vibe.
Smart automation installed by Simplicity extends to the downstairs. The lower level’s modern wine cave is glassed in and lined in ledgestone with controlled temperature and lighting. The stairwell is also illuminated under each step, and a custom-designed light fixture was built by Wilson Lighting to hang from the second floor two flights to the lower level.
The reclaimed barnwood walls from Elmwood Reclaimed Timber feature an old windmill from a friend’s property. The large space includes ping ping, foosball and air hockey games next to theater seating and a full bar. There is outdoor access, and just up a flight of exterior stairs is the pool, bocce court, fire pit and amazing vistas.
BEAUTIFUL UTILITY
Designer: KPW Designs Cabinets: Parks Cabinets Paint: Farrow & Ball (Drop Cloth) Countertop: Architectural Surfaces Countertop Fabricator: SCI Surfaces Light Fixture: Pottery Barn Plumbing: Grandview Winnelson Hardware: Locks & Pulls Featured Artist: Susan Righter Interior Amenities: Reva-Shelf
GRACEFUL IN BLUE-GREEN
Builder/Designer: Grace & Nell Homes Lighting: Visual Comfort, sourced through Relative Lighting Plumbing: Rohl, sourced through Ferguson Countertops: Dimensional Stoneworks Wallpaper: Thibaut Cabinets: Miller's Custom Cabinets
CALL OF THE WILD
Interior Designer: Tran + Thomas Design Studio Contractor: CMP Construction Bathroom Wallpaper: Innovations Sconces: Arteriors Shower Faucets: Brizo Sink Faucets: Signature Hardware
MODERN OASIS
Designer: High Prairie Outdoors Engineer: Al-Iman Group Electrician: All-Spark Electric Gunite + Pool Finish: Midwest Plastering LLC Kitchen Counters: Legendary Stone Pavers: Unilock Pergola: Rensen Lighting: Coastal Source
GETTING INTO THE GROOVES
Designer/Contractor: Trove Homes Appliances: NFM Countertops: Dimensional Stoneworks; Any Top Shop Hardware: Locks & Pulls Lighting: Wilson Lighting Plumbing: Neenan Plaster Work: Ballerini Plastering
THE ART OF POSSIBLE
Architect: NSPJ Architects Builder: Hickok Homes Interior Designer: Jenna Kaufman Interior Design All Plumbing Fixtures and Thermostatic Valves: Kohler Schluter: Heated Floors and Shower Prep Materials Pedestal Paver Systems: Daltile Flooring: MSI Hardware and Door Functionality Hinges: Compi Appliances: Ferguson + Thermador Landscaper: Goodwin Outdoors Light Fixtures: Hudson Valley; Relative Lighting Architectural Lighting and Cans: Wilson Lighting Exterior Decking + Exterior Siding: Milboard
Architects Contractor: Scott Gann Construction Landscaping: Embassy Landscape Group Lion Statues: Van Liew's Home & Garden Iron Doors: Pinkys Kitchen Cabinets: Custom Wood
While visiting Paris, designer Jill Tran found this Dior print for her Doberman-loving clients. It’s a meaningful touch to their unique home, shown on page
REACHING FOR THE STARRS
Builder: Starr Homes Architectural Plan Designer: Castrop Design Group Interior Designer: Evolve Interiors Countertops: Kenny’s Tile Fireplace(s): Midwest Fireplace Golf Simulator: High Definition Golf Elevator: KC Lift & Elevator Plumbing Fixtures: Kohler Signature, Ferguson Company Glass Work: Fountain Glass Garage Doors: Overhead Door Landscaping: Next to Nature Lighting: Wilson Lighting Smart Home
Automation: Simplicity Stonework: Builder Stone Tile: Kennys Tile Pool: Complete Pools Sauna: Sunlighten Cabinets: Cabinets by King Wood Flooring: Kenny’s Hardwood Carpet: Carpet Source Metal Work: Bill Ruckdeschel Trim
Material: Builders First Source Foundation: Johnson County
Basement Concrete: Epic Concrete Excavating: Cutting Edge, Schlagle Trucking Lumber Material: Premier Building HVAC: United Heating and Cooling Electric: Crown Electric Rough-in Plumbing: Miller Plumbing Windows: Weathershield Garage
Flooring: ETEK Custom Coatings Appliances: Ferguson, Thermador Generators: CM Mose & Son Trenching: Stark
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Deep Soak
A black tub evokes sexy self-care vibes.
Words by Andrea Darr | Photo by Josie Bene eld
The idea of a white tub went down the drain in this primary bathroom.
“I wanted something different,” says interior designer Betsy Judd. “I was tired of the same old same old.”
The lead designer for Willis Custom Homes selected a solid-surface black soaking tub for the builder’s 2024 Artisan Home.
A half wall divides the space from the shower, while the glass enclosure above makes the space feel part of the open
room. Glass black tile below was a budget splurge worth the effect.
“I love how it gives the space depth,” Judd says.
The dark tub—along with the dark-painted doors to the closet and the toilet room—have a grounding effect in a room full of “movement” from the marble pattern in the porcelain tile.
“It’s definitely a dramatic look,” says owner Patrick Willis.
