Kentucky Homes & Gardens Jan/Feb 2018

KENTUCKY

HOMES

&

GARDENS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

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4 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

Kentucky Homes & Gardens January/February 2018 Volume 15 Issue 1

36 On the Cover: A Home for All Seasons Photography by Walt Roycraft

Contents

HOME IMPROVEMENT 16 LANDSCAPE: The Quiet Season 18 HOMESCAPE: Magic Carpet

SPECIAL FEATURES 20 GARDEN: A Balanced Approach

18

24 FEATURE: Luxury Bathroom Tile 32 ART: Judy Mudd

HOMES 36 A Home for All Seasons 44 Conrad’s Castle

16

52 the Evolution of an Exotic Lodge

GO KENTUCKY! 14 COOKING IN KY: Boone Tavern 64 DISCOVERING KY: The Aviation Museum

6 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

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KENTUCKY HOMES

&GARDENS

Published by RHP Publishing, LLC PO Box 22754 Lexington, KY 40522 859.268.0217 Publisher: Rick Phillips 1rickphillips@windstream.net

Landscape Remodeling

Associate Publisher: Carolyn Rasnick carolyn@rhppublishingllc.com Circulation and Distribution: 1rickphillips@windstream.net Account Executives: Lexington/ Central Kentucky Rick Phillips 859-268-0217 • 1rickphillips@windstream.net Mimi Leet 859-797-6305 • mimileet@windstream.net Louisville Zach Lorenzen 317-441-3643 • zachary.lorenzen.khg@gmail.com Editors: Rick Phillips, Carolyn Rasnick Senior Associate Editor: Kirsten E. Silven Photography: Walt Roycraft Contributing Writers: Bill Henkel Christina Noll

Heather Russell-Simmons Kirsten E. Silven

Art Direction & Design: Meghann Burnett meghann@papermeteor.com Printing: Freeport Press 121 Main St. Freeport, Ohio 43973 Kentucky Homes and Gardens is published six times a year by RHP Publishing, LLC. 859.268.0217 www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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Kentucky residents add 6% sales tax.

Subscriptions and change-of-address should be sent to Kentucky Homes and Gardens, Subscriber Service Center, PO Box 22754, Lexington, KY 40522

8 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

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COOKING IN KY

Boone Tavern

1

Experience Real Southern Hospitality at Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant of Berea College

By Kirsten E. Silven

Photography Courtesy of Boone Tavern

Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant 1 The graceful façade of the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant in Berea features a sizable, inviting veranda and traditional columns along the front and side porticos.

2 Candied cranberry cheesecake is the perfect dessert for the holiday season.

3 The mouthwatering Historic Boone Tavern Hot Brown is made with French bread, sliced turkey, shaved country ham, sliced tomato, Mornay sauce, applewood smoked bacon and asiago cheese.

4 Enjoy Pork Chops the Tricky Way, a Historic Boone Tavern classic dish that serves up boneless pork chops with tomato parmesan breading, cheese grits, braised greens and grain mustard sauce.

of Berea College is an excellent place to make lasting memories and experience a taste of real Southern hospitality and authentic Kentucky traditions. Originally built by students of Berea College in 1909 at the suggestion of Nellie Frost, wife of college President William G. Frost, Historic Boone Tavern today is one of Kentucky’s most popular historic restaurants and hotels, regularly hosting engagement parties, birthdays, weddings and a wide variety of other celebrations.

The property was built based on designs by the New York architectural firm of Cady & See for a cost of $20,000 with bricks manufactured by students in the Berea College brickyard and wood manufactured by students in the college’s woodworking department. After construction ended and as the reputation of Berea College grew, so did the number of guests that Mrs. Frost received, reaching a high point of 300 visitors during one busy summer! Named for Appalachian hero Daniel Boone, the establishment has been hosting visitors of Berea – and Kentucky – ever since, including the Dalai Lama, Henry Ford, President and Mrs. Calvin Coolidge, Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou and Robert Frost.

Historic Boone Tavern is located at a prominent place on the College Square in the heart of Berea where the old Dixie Highway intersected with campus. Today, the restaurant serves up fine Southern cuisine with a tempting menu of traditional dishes made with farm-to-table ingredients from Kentucky Proud, the Berea College Farm and a number of other local farms. In addition to the ever-popular Hot Brown and Tricky Pork Chops, Historic Boone Tavern is famous for its spoonbread, which longtime manager Richard T. Hougen called, “the richest, lightest and most delicious of all corn meal breads.”

Hougen also started the tradition of serving each guest a complimentary scoop of spoon bread prior to the meal, so it’s little wonder everyone agrees that you can’t find a tastier recipe for spoon bread than the one used at Historic Boone Tavern! The historic recipe is available today in Hougen’s book, “Look No Further: A Cookbook of Favorite Recipes from the Boone Tavern Hotel,” published by Berea College in 1955.

14 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

Pork Chops “The Tricky Way”

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3 Incredibly, the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant has also been awarded the distinguished title of LEED Gold Certified Green Hotel, a commitment that came about when considering renovation in 2006. Becoming “Green” is part of the core values of Berea College, and Historic Boone Tavern is not the first building on campus to undergo this intensive process, which is driven by a commitment to energy conservation, sustainability and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

Also of note, the restaurant is now serving fine wines, as well as Kentucky crafted and domestic beers and spirits for the first time in 105 years, including a nice selection of Kentucky bourbons.

“The cuisine celebrates quintessential Kentucky and Boone Tavern traditions through innovative preparations and flavors, while providing a complete dining experience for guests wanting more,” shared Donna Robertson, who serves as director of sales and marketing for the hotel and restaurant.

Whether you’re a local or are just visiting Berea to experience the rich history and vibrant local culture, stopping at Historic Boone Tavern—either overnight or for a meal—is a must in this Kentucky college town! Visit www.boonetavernhotel.com or call 800-366-9358 for reservations and more information.

Ingredients: 4 Lean KY Proud™ Pork Chops (approx. 1 inch thick) ½ Cup Tomato Paste ½ Cup Parmesan Cheese 1 Cup Bread Crumbs ½ Cup Vegetable Oil 2 ½ Cups Chicken Stock 2 ½ Tablespoons Flour 2 ½ Tablespoons Butter (softened) ¾ Cup Sliced Mushrooms (locally sourced) Salt and Pepper to Taste Preparation: - Coat pork chops thoroughly with tomato paste.

- Combine bread crumbs and parmesan cheese.

- Dredge pork chops in bread crumb mixture.

- Pan fry pork chops in a skillet with vegetable oil until golden brown.

- Place pork chops in a greased casserole dish.

- Add ½ cup chicken stock, cover and bake for one hour at 350 degrees.

For Sauce: - Form a paste with softened butter and flour.

- Combine remaining chicken stock and flour mixture in a sauce pan on medium heat.

- Stir constantly to prevent from sticking.

- Simmer sauce until it thickens and flour taste is removed (approx. 8 to 10 minutes).

-Add mushrooms and simmer until mushrooms are soft.

-Season to taste.

Serving Suggestions: -Top Tricky Chops with mushroom sauce.

- Serve Tricky Chops with Wiesenberger Mills™ cheese grits and locally-sourced braised greens, or your favorite seasonal vegetable.

4 Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 15

LANDSCAPES

The Quiet Season

By Bill Henkel

The Quiet Season—as I prefer to embrace winter—could be my favorite of all.

Something about the depth of this mysterious time, when much of the obvious activity slows...trees change their colors, shed their leaves to expose their skeletons, and perennials stand tall against the cold winds with their brown stems soon to lay down.

Underground activity goes deeper and slows its movements to a halt.

Some animals hibernate and some migrate. The bright colors of spring and summer fade with the long shadows and short days. Life for some is spent mostly indoors, yet still there is plenty to do and see in the winter world landscape.

Some of the less obvious features of this season require us to slow down and look more closely into the subtle features of what is all around us.

Here is a list of some favorite winter elements—on your next walk or drive see how many you can identify. Have fun.

1 Kentucky Coffee Tree Distinctive arching form, bark and massive twisted seed pods.

2 Common Hackberry Tree Common in a sense that they are not at all picky about where they grow. County, city, fence row—these beauties often hatched from a seed deposited from a robin or other feathered friend. They have a distinctive fan sloped form whose branches fade in to a haze as they get smaller.

3 Oaks Majestic and strong in the bare season, some retain their leaves (browns and tans through the winter) producing a rattle in the wind. The rattle persists until spring buds swell to push them off.

4 Cedar and Junipers Powder blue berries partially hidden within their foliage persist through most of the winter. !

5 The Ginkgo Tree Distinctive, rigid and upright, the Ginkgo forms like an NFL official signaling a touchdown. Closer inspection reveals deeply furrowed colorful bark and large round buds holding next spring’s leaves.

16 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

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6 Lacebark Elm The perfect descriptive name for this medium fan-shaped tree. Where else will you find a more unique bark with combined colors of pistachio and cinnamon?

7 Sycamore The majestic Sycamore sports a massive white trunk that shines bright on a sunny day and cuts through the fog on a cloudy one. Its alignment shows the way of the water.

8 Staghorn Sumac This tree sheds its bright foliage from fall to reveal a deer-like velvet on its branch ends. Seed clusters persist throughout.

9 Finally—the Mistletoe Evergreen This parasite is often seen in branch unions of the Black Walnut tree, but has also been spotted in oaks and elms.

Evergreen for the most part, dark green to yellow green leaves with milky-like transparent berries, Mistletoe is not as popular a Christmas decoration as it once was.

Explore and enjoy your winter world and Kentucky landscape. It is all right there just waiting for you to stop by.

Bill Henkel, Partner @Henkel Denmark Leading Landscape American Society of Landscape Architects Healing and Therapy Garden Certified

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Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 17

HOMESCAPES

Magic Carpet

By Christina Noll

1

When it comes to creating a warm and inviting room, many designers start with a traditional

oriental rug. A rug not only provides warmth and comfort, but can be a beautiful centerpiece around which the entire room comes together. If you aren’t a designer, though, buying an oriental rug can be a daunting experience. “It is one of the world’s oldest hand-crafts, and yet one the average consumer knows the least about,” says Chad Tussey, managing partner at Lexington Oriental Rugs. He recommends doing some research before you begin shopping to learn more about the products offered and the people offering them.

What type of rug is right for you hand-knotted, tufted, or machine made?

Hand-knotted rugs are the most valuable. They are exceptionally durable, can be repaired, and will usually increase in value with use and age. Unfortunately, because of the amount of time and effort that goes into making them, they are sometimes the most expensive option.

Tufted rugs are often referred to as hand-tufted. They are much faster to make than the knotted pieces and can vary in quality and durability drastically. Typically, they will cost less than a hand-knotted piece, leaving room for extras such as silk highlights that would drastically increase the price of hand-knotted rugs. The most notable downside of a tufted rug is when it comes to repair—a tufted rug cannot usually overcome catastrophic damage to be restored. This type of rug will not increase in value as it ages. “It is wise to shop and compare prices of hand-knotted pieces versus machine made and tufted pieces,” explains Tussey. “If prices are comparable, the hand-knotted piece is always preferred.”

The third option, machine-made rugs, are much like the tufted rugs in that they vary drastically in value and durability. Machine-made rugs can be made from a wide variety of materials, and they are fast and inexpensive to manufacture. The disadvantage is the shorter lifespan of the piece and the difficulty to repair major damages. “Don’t let this scare you away from a machine-made rug,” says Tussey. “Some of the highest quality machine made rugs such as Karastan enjoy a wonderful reputation for lasting generations and being easy to maintain.”

It’s all in the material “Rugs can be made of just about any material that can be spun into thread,” explains Tussey. “The materials that are used will affect quality, durability, and cost of the rug. I personally will always recommend a wool rug.”

It is warm, soft, and can last through wear and tear without tedious maintenance. It also is infused with natural oils that allow it to resist liquids and stains. “Try it,” suggests Tussey, “Pour a glass of water on a wool rug. Initially it will bead up and sit on top of the pile. While it will eventually soak into the pile, it will give you some time for cleanup.” In addition, he explains, wool does not like to be stained. This is because it must be treated before dying, otherwise the majority of the color will wash away.

Most hand-knotted and tufted rugs are composed of wool pile with a cotton warp and weft. Silk, synthetic silks, and hemp can also be found prominently in these rugs. “Machine-made rugs are much more experimental,” says Tussey.

“While some of the upper-end pieces are made of high grade wools, here is where you will find some very interesting synthetics.” Machine-made rugs can vary greatly in textures and colors. Although advantage of a synthetic rug is cost, you are sacrificing durability and the ability to clean the rug easily in some cases. “Be sure to ask your professional rug dealer about how to maintain your synthetic rug before taking it home,” recommends Tussey.

Finding the rug that fits “The correct size for a rug depends on both room size and furniture setting,” says Tussey. The rug should be a foundation for the setting, but not overwhelm the room or create an obstruction (such as covering a floor vent.) An example would be a dining room with a table seating eight: The rug should be large enough to allow you to pull the chairs back for seating while still staying on the rug.

Tussey offers the following tips on size: • Don’t cover any floor vents • Stay at least four inches away from the walls to allow for your floors to show • If possible, do not place your rug underneath any furniture on the wall with doors or drawers, as it creates a visual imbalance and a literal imbalance in your furniture that can cause doors and drawers to “stick.”

• For living rooms, try to place at least the front legs of your upholstery on the rug. It creates an anchor for your furniture and defines the boundary, creating an intimate setting instead of a “cluster of furniture.”

• Do not feel pressured to have a rug that covers your entire space or goes all the way underneath your upholstery. While it can be necessary in very large rooms, it is often a waste of square footage in average spaces.

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1 The perfect rug will complete your room, just as this dramatic one does. Use the tips in this article to make sure you choose the right one for your space.

2 This sunny yellow rug brightens a room and makes the common come to life.

Check out the rug buying guide here: http://www.lexingtonorientalrugs.com/ rug-buyer-guide/ or visit a reputable dealer and ask for a quick primer on oriental rugs.

If you are not sure what to do, Tussey recommends asking an interior designer. ‘Some rug stores and Lexington Furniture have interior designers on staff to help you make these decisions,” he says. “Shoot photos of your room, get measurements, and bring in fabric swatches to get a professional opinion.”

Deciding on the perfect rug for your home Once you know the type of rug and the size needed, it’s time to think about color. Tussey has seen a noticeable shift in the industry lately to follow changing customer styles. Buyers either want muted colors such as faded greys, soft blues, and beiges, or they are interested in vibrant colors. “Reds and blues have been in style for rugs for roughly 3000 years—that’s probably not going to change, but the tones of these colors waxes and wanes,” Tussey says. “Burgundy and navy have experienced a downward slide. Vibrant reds and blues are in, and blue is the color of the moment. For the muted tones, grey is a mainstay, paired with soft blues, light golds, and blush.”

Check the internet, Pinterest and magazines to get an idea of what you like best. “The most important thing is that you find the rug that makes you happy,” Tussey says. “A reputable dealer and a little research will make the decision simple and easy.”

How much will my rug cost?

Keep in mind that the right rug is an investment. The price of an oriental rug is decided by several factors: the type of rug, the quality of material, the size of the rug, the age and rarity and its origin. Tussey recommends looking for customer friendly policies such as no obligation approval period, return policies, and trade-in policies. “Look for clear and transparent information on each rug. Each item should have a visible tag with id number, size, type, origin, material and pricing,” he says. “If this info is not clearly displayed, walk away.”

In general, the longer it takes to make a rug, the more you will pay. Hand-knotted rugs take months and even years to make, while tufted rugs can take days or weeks and machine-made rugs can take just hours.

In addition, within each construction type are many different quality sets. ‘Factors such as knot count, density, foundation type, dye type, and how the material is spun come into play,” explains Tussey. His best advice is to ask a lot of questions while purchasing. “Ask your chosen dealer to show you comparisons among different rugs. With just a little bit of practice, you will be able to not only see the difference between synthetic dyes versus natural dyes, but you will be able to make informed decisions about which is best for you.”

2 Most of the hand-knotted rugs you will find at your local oriental rug stores are made in India, Iran (Persian), China, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Turkey. ‘The exchange rates and available supply will greatly affect pricing,” explains Tussey. “Machine made and tufted rugs are made all over the globe, and while exchange rates do affect pricing, it is not as noticeable.”

The age of a rug is only a cost factor if you are purchasing a hand-knotted rug. “With 3000 years of knotting tradition, finding antique rugs that are generations old is common,” Tussey says. “A 100-year-old rug is not a rare occurrence.”

As hand-knotted rugs age, they develop a patina similar to wood or leather products. Dyes oxidize at a consistent rate, creating colors and hues that are difficult to reproduce in newly made rugs. “As wear and tear slowly buffs way the pile of the carpet, you get closer to the original foundation, sharpening the pattern and creating a vintage texture that is highly sought after,” says Tussey.

They can last a lifetime or many lifetimes, will become more beautiful along the way, and can become expensive. ‘Too many people think that a true, hand-knotted rug is outside of their financial reach because of this reputation,” says Tussey.

“We suggest checking out the market and seeing what is out there. You will be surprised at the range of prices and styles that are available for almost any budget.”

The main thing to remember when choosing your own oriental rug is to enjoy the process and ask a lot of questions. “The most important part of my job is customer education,” says Tussey. “I study rugs 60 hours a week so you don’t need to.

Finding the next inspiration for your home can be fun—enjoy the magic carpet ride!”

Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 19

GARDENS 1 1 A stone cross is just one of several pieces of statuary that provides a sense of discovery as the garden unfolds and is surrounded here by Korean boxwood, liriope and a Lace Bark elm. The wall visible in the background was handcrafted from Kentucky limestone and surrounds the entire property, which is nearly one acre in size.

2 One of three steel gates on the property beckons entry here, offering a glimpse of the turf garden that lies behind the Kentucky limestone fence, which is surrounded here by staghorn sumac, hosta and Canadian hemlock.

3 Here, the garden’s deep, thick border is visible across the turf garden. Planted with privacy in mind, the border features curving lines and a variety of ornamental grasses, as well as hosta, weeping spruce and other evergreens, hardwoods and bright orange daylilies.

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20 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

A Balanced Approach

By Kirsten E. Silven Photography by Walt Roycraft

Situated in southeast Lexington, this

much-loved and very well-planned garden spans nearly one acre and features a variety of mature plantings in separate yet interconnected outdoor areas. The project began when the homeowners purchased the property more than 15 years ago and has continued to evolve ever since with the help of Henkel Denmark.

Garden Credits: Landscape Design & Installation: Henkel Denmark Planters: Nichols Bros.

Stoneworks

Today, the home’s expansive outdoor spaces include a swimming pool surrounded by a lush garden, a water feature and goldfish pond, a perennial garden, a turf garden and thick, densely planted borders, as well as a perimeter fence encircling the entire property that was handcrafted from Kentucky limestone.

To the rear of the home, a real sense of balance is achieved by including an expansive turf garden that lies opposite the pool. The two spaces are separated

by Green Giant arborvitae with a connecting walk-through tunnel.

“People tend to spend more time socializing on the pool deck than swimming in the pool, making it function as a type of water feature much of the time,” shared Registered Landscape Architect Bill Henkel of Henkel Denmark.

Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 21

4 Resembling a natural limestone pool, the water feature and goldfish pond is surrounded by liriope, also commonly known as monkey grass, as well as a weeping spruce and planters brimming with coleus and wave petunias. The pool has a built-in walkway that spans surface, while the oversized stone shelf provides an ideal spot to place a chair and take in the view while listening to the musical sounds of the waterfall.

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5 Shady perennial beds surround the pavilion, which is the property’s newest addition to its sprawling outdoor areas.

This space opens to the kitchen inside, making the space ideal for entertaining. Sculpted boxwoods, hosta and ferns lend structure to the space and surround a whimsical stone and bronze “dry” fountain that is nestled under the Japanese maple.

5 Early on, the garden required the installation of an extensive drain system and the removal of many plants that had overgrown the outdoor spaces. Over the years, the entire look and feel of the property has changed dramatically, evolving to resemble a grand estate with increased privacy.

“The idea was to increase visual impact and have less competition between plants,” shared Bill.

More recently, Henkel Denmark helped the homeowners conceptualize and bring to life a large outdoor pavilion that is connected to the rear of the home and opens to the kitchen inside and the turf garden outside. The gracefully-arched roofline lends a clean, modern feel to the design and its position near the pool makes the space ideal for entertaining.

The garden areas have also evolved to incorporate a variety of sculptures the homeowners have found during their travels, including a Celtic-inspired cross, a stone lantern and a fountain.

“Great gardens don’t happen by chance,” Bill concluded. “It’s part science and part art form to get things into their proper places, creating a sense of depth, mystery, illusion and surprise.”

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6 Framed here by the boughs of a Forest Pansy redbud, the gunite pool is situated just off the rear of the home, separated from the turf garden by a wall of Green Giant Arborvitae, and is a holdover from when the owners purchased this property more than 15 years ago. It serves as a focal point in the extensive, well-planned outdoor areas and is surrounded by concrete Peacock Pavers as well as its very own lush pool garden.

Perennial beds with a boxwood border can also be seen here along the rear of the home, while New Guinea impatiens and trailing geranium lend bright pops of color to the planters.

7 Symmetry in the design and plantings gives the approach to this secondary entrance a pleasing, disciplined look and feel, with a Sweet Bay magnolia, gently curving organic borders, neatly-trimmed boxwoods and two oversized cast stone Essex bowl planters from Nichols Bros.

Stoneworks brimming with pachysandra and lantana flanking a walkway crafted from Peacock Pavers.

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8 A graceful arched pavilion was added to create an outdoor living area that takes full advantage of the property’s lush pool and garden views. Surrounded by carefully pruned boxwoods and offering easy access to the pool and master bedroom via a hidden stepping stone pathway, the massive covered pavilion also features decorative and functional rain chains to conduct water from the roof to the ground, plenty of seating, grill space, ceiling fans and a flat-screen TV.

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Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 23

SPECIAL FEATURE

Luxury Bathroom Tile 1 In this traditional bathroom, a Jacuzzi tub serves as the focal point, encircled by neutral-hued travertine tiles in a perimeter and contrasting dark green glass tile decorative highlights and border. The same design is repeated in the backsplash, creating a sense of continuity in the space.

Photo courtesy of Reading Rock.

Bathroom Tile Trends Offer Color, Texture & A Real Sense of Luxury

By Kirsten E. Silven

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Gone are the days when bathroom tile

was selected purely for functional reasons, although their durability, resistance to water and low maintenance are still attractive features. Today, the impact of bathroom tile is just as much aesthetic as it is functional, with staggering variety in their design, color and texture.

“Tile is the most popular surface and versatile finish material used in bathroom design,” shared Laura Dalzell, owner of Cabinets & Designs.

Designs have gone from basic borders around a shower or tub to full feature walls of accent tile and bands of vertical accents. Tile sizes have also continued to get larger, with 12 x 24-inch serving as the new standard size, along with narrow planks and larger rectangles. There has also been an upswing in patterned porcelains, mostly in neutral colors, blacks, whites, greys and taupe, but also some with striking colors.

“We are still seeing a great deal of neutral tones, but often with sparks of color in the form of decorative tiles, accent walls, patterns and even textures,” shared Dalzell. “Don’t be afraid to mix patterns; practically anything goes, provided it complements your style and the home’s overall look and feel.”

While neutrals are still king, homeowners are finding new ways to express their personal style with decorative accents. Also, it’s important to note that floors and showers as well as tub surrounds do not have to match and it’s perfectly acceptable to coordinate two different tiles on these surfaces, changing up the color and/or shape to create a fabulous look and feel.

26 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

2 An unglazed through-body porcelain floor smoothly transitions from one subtle color to another and will not damage, crack or warp from moisture. High-gloss wall tiles in a warm beige hue benefit from a contrasting travertine checkerboard vertical accent stripe; a design that is repeated in the backsplash. Photo courtesy of Emser Tile.

3 “One of the biggest trends being introduced in the tile industry is thin porcelain panels to give a seamless look,” shared Interior Designer Libby Marbury of Mees Tile & Marble. “This material can be used on the floor, the shower walls, the tub surround and even the countertops, sinks and bathtub.”

3 With silver grey Quartzite walls and medium-sized black pebble tiles around the tub, this sleek, modern design also boasts a Silver Thorn Stria travertine with glass mosaic in the wall border and recessed shelf, and 12 x 24-inch Antasit porcelain tiles on the floor.

Photo courtesy of Reading Rock.

Porcelain plank tiles with the look of wood are also very popular and the plank sizes look fantastic when laid in a herringbone or chevron pattern. Hexagonal tiles, Moroccan tiles, high-gloss subway tile, arabesque shapes and black grout are also new trends that are becoming more popular.

“There are so many resources available today to find inspiration,” Marbury added.

“Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV are all great places to find ideas that will show your designer what look you are trying to create. I find so many customers come in feeling overwhelmed and lost trying to explain their concept.”

Of course, it’s always safe to choose neutral tones for tile – since it’s fairly permanent—then bring color in with paint, wallpaper and accessories. Those elements are always more cost-effective to update than tile and countertops, which can always benefit from a timeless, classic look.

“Calacatta and Carrara marble looks have definitely been the most popular trend,” Marbury revealed. “Many of the marble looks can be book-matched which creates a continuous vein through several pieces making a stunning statement.”

Heated floors continue to grow in popularity and are a must-have for many homeowners in this region, where winter months can bring bitter cold. Floor heat can also be used in large, open showers for added comfort.

Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 27

4 “New technology is advancing rapidly and the high definition glazing techniques used on porcelain today make it difficult to tell the difference between porcelain and the stone it is meant to look like,” shared Barb Fraser, manager of ProSource. “We are seeing glass tiles that can be used on the floor, and there is so much more than clear glass available, such as opaque, iridescent and stained-glass tiles that are available in every color of the rainbow and many different sizes, surface textures and shapes.”

Many consumers fall in love with an accent tile first, which can be used as a focal point to build around, but it’s also essential to consider the practical side of things, including how slippery the floor might be when wet, maintenance, accessibility and size. Do you want to seal the grout every year, or spend more and purchase a stain-resistant grout? If you plan to age in place, do you want the shower opening to be large enough to accommodate a wheelchair?

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5 4 This space was designed just for the lady of the house and features a marble soaking tub and hand painted wall covering, with a beautifully inlaid marble floor by Fox Marble. Photo courtesy of Urban Archaeology.

5 Neutral porcelain tiles designed to resemble marble adorn the walls, shower, floor and tub, with decorative glass tile inlays and granite on the countertops and tub surround.

The glass shower wall opens up the space and allows more of the decorative tile features to interact with the space, while the barrel-vaulted ceiling complements the arched window and lends drama to the room.

Photo courtesy of Ballentine Tile.

6 Featuring Preeminent Porcelain™ tile flooring in a flawless interpretation of the world’s top statuary marble, this look is both classic and contemporary, especially when paired with contrasting yet complementary silver and white granite countertops and slightly darker grey subway tiles, topped by decorative accent tiles in a checkerboard pattern and 12-inch tiles in the see-through glass shower. Photo courtesy of Mees Tile & Marble and American Wonder Porcelain.

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7 A charming claw-foot tub takes center stage here, resting atop a heated floor of travertine tiles set on the diagonal with darker decorative accents that are echoed in the shower and on the walls surrounding the tub.

Granite countertops in a soft, neutral tone complete the look.

Photo courtesy of Signature Hardware.

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8 “Wall tiles, most glass products and metal mosaics are not durable enough to be used on bathroom floors, however all floor tiles can be used on walls,” Fraser added. “Otherwise, you can let your imagination run free when selecting finishes for a bathroom.”

Also, when selecting a tile setter it’s important to ask for referrals and if there is a warranty on the work. Tile contractors in Kentucky are not required to be licensed, so the quality of their work can fluctuate greatly.

Finally, think about the pros and cons of your selection. Ceramic is the least expensive tile product, while porcelain is denser and more resistant to cracking and chipping as the structure moves. While stone is often considered the most beautiful and luxurious of hard surface materials, it requires sealing and is more susceptible to cracking. Also, stone is a natural product and no two tiles are exactly alike, so the sample you see in the showroom may not reflect the stone being quarried. Have samples from the supplier’s current inventory shipped for approval before ordering stone.

“We have more choices now than ever before, so bathroom design presents the perfect opportunity to put your signature on a room you are in every day,” Fraser stated. “Preparation and planning will definitely pay off.”

With so many options to consider, choosing the right tiles for your bathroom can feel like quite a challenge, so it’s also helpful to work with an experienced professional to develop the final design. From luxe materials to new takes on old standards, current tile trends are a reflection of the growing demand for personalized spaces throughout the home, so whether you’re planning a complete bathroom overhaul or are starting fresh with a new home, the possibilities are virtually endless.

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8 Contemporary design blends a sense of natural and urban spaces here with help from wood-look porcelain tiles in Blanche from Fiandre laid in a herringbone pattern, creating a slip-resistant surface and an expansive feel in the space, which also features an oversized standalone soaking tub and minimalist vanity with plenty of storage below. Photo courtesy of Mees Tile & Marble and Fiandre.

9 9 With a floor-to-ceiling shimmering multicolored glass tile wall serving as focal point and a dramatic neutral-toned marble soaking tub with a matching heated marble floor, this contemporary space exudes character and creates a relaxing oasis that is ideal for unwinding after a long day. Photo courtesy of International Wholesale Tile.

10 This traditional master ensuite bath features a neutral color palette with dark accents selected for the marble countertops and shower, as well as the elegant decorative border outlining the subtly shimmering tile flooring. A round jetted tub also serves as a focal point, flanked by dual columns lending architectural interest.

Design by Segreti Design.

Photo credit: Larry Arnal, Arnal Photography.

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ARTIST

In the Moment

Watercolorist Judy Mudd uses art to

focus on being in the moment. “You have to pay attention with watercolor,” she said. “You work with gravity to help direct paint, so if you make a mistake, you have about 60 seconds to make a correction. There’s no time to think about things.” That challenge is one of the many reasons watercolor is her preferred medium. “Watercolor has spontaneity, it keeps me interested.”

By Heather N. Russell-Simmons Photography Courtesy of Judy Mudd

That spontaneity requires a great deal of planning ahead. “Prep work makes the art work better,” said Mudd. Because watercolor is more difficult to correct than other mediums such as oil or acrylic, “You need to know your direction before you start. Where are your lights? What’s your general color scheme?”

Mudd finds the answers to these questions by carrying a sketch book everywhere she goes. “I begin with a value sketch of the subject I want to paint to understand the lights, mediums and darks,” she said. “Oil painting begins with the dark colors and builds in highlights. Watercolor is the opposite. You reserve the whites, usually the paper, by masking or painting around those, gradually building up darker colors into the work.”

To determine her colors, Mudd creates a color study. “Anything from the actual subject matter to the temperature of the day could influence the color.” Mudd looks for unity and cohesiveness. “I’ll mix greens with the same blue I use in the sky. Using colors in that way unify the painting and create impact for the focal area.”

Mudd’s subject matter ranges from cityscapes to farm lands. “When I paint, I’m trying to create an emotional connection for me and the viewer. If I paint a tree with a softness, mystery or intrigue, viewers may recall a memory and make a connection to the painting.”

“My mother was an artist, but I did not paint while she was alive,” Mudd said.

“About 20 years ago, my husband encouraged me to paint as a hobby.”

Mudd began taking classes in a local art store before traveling to learn from master watercolorists like Charles Reid and Joseph Zbukvic.

“Painting is a continuous learning and experimental process,” she said. “I’ve painted with twigs from the yard, sharpened chop sticks and used a credit card to scrape paint and create lines,” said Mudd. “I’m constantly honing my skills, finding better ways to express shape and value and colors. It’s not always an improvement, sometimes it’s just a change.”

Ten years ago, “I decided to try teaching people in this medium,” said Mudd, who leads group workshops in the Louisville area. “Depending on the students’ needs, I can advise and guide, help mix colors or help improve a composition. Or, I may focus on developing painting techniques using follow-the-leader style lessons.” Mudd recently began recording classes to post her lessons online. “I enjoy it and the feedback,” she said. “I’ve heard from people in Australia, Louisiana and New Jersey. People who have admired my work, can see me paint and learn from my experience.”

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1 Just Around the Bend 10.5” x 13.5” (Image Size) Watercolor on Saunders Waterford, Rough, 140lb paper “This was the subject of my latest online video,” said Mudd. “I chose it because it’s simple scene of winding roads in Kentucky.”

2 Artist Judy Mudd at home studio in Middletown, Ky. 3 Corner at Ramsi’s 14.5” x 22” (Image Size) Watercolor on Saunders Waterford, Rough, 140lb paper “I was in the car with my husband when the sunlight hit this popular corner in Louisville just right,” said Mudd. “Sometimes that moment is there for only a few seconds and you have to grab the image while it’s good.

So I jumped out of the car to take photos,” she said. “More than anything, this painting is about the lighting.”

4 Cathedral 21.5” x 9.75” (Image Size) Watercolor on Saunders Waterford, Cold Press, 200lb paper “I wanted to emphasize height by using an elongated format,” said Mudd of this image capturing one of downtown Louisville’s cathedrals.

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4 Mudd’s instructional videos can be found at www.paintwatercolor.com.

A gallery of her work is available at www.JudyMudd.com

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5 Storms Coming 3 11.5” x 21.5” (Image Size) Watercolor on Saunders Waterford, Rough, 140lb paper “It was just about to storm,” said Mudd. “I wanted to get the light right, the way it felt on the street.”

6 Bus Stop Chat 15” x 11” (Image Size) Watercolor on Arches, Rough, 140lb paper Created while teaching at Preston Art Center, Mudd explored adding interest with her students using color in the lower focal area where people are painted outside Carmichael’s bookstore on Bardstown Road in Louisville.

7 Five o’Clock Rush 22” x 15” (Image Size) Watercolor on Saunders Waterford, Rough, 140lb paper “There are a few things distinctly Chicago in this painting,” said Mudd. At a corner where five streets merge, chaos of daily life moves among the height of the buildings, a red double decker bus and the Chicago Transit’s Authority L (a now official name originally short for elevated).

8 City of Flags 22” x 15” (Image Size) Watercolor and Gouache on Saunders Waterford, Rough, 140lb paper City of Flags is the result of a weekend trip to Chicago.

“I left the sketchbook at home and focused on photography,” said Mudd. “I liked the action and layers of the buildings in this scene.”

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9 Midday Conversations 16.5” x 20.5” (Image Size) Watercolor on Saunders Waterford, Cold Press, 200lb paper “I merged two images in Photoshop to tell this story of expansion,” said Mudd. “The steeples in this painting are a few miles apart and the photographs I used were taken on different days.” This painting hangs in the Actors Theatre of Louisville as part of the 40th Aqueous Exhibit by the Kentucky Watercolor Society.

10 Ohio River Morning 10.5” x 14” (Image Size) Watercolor on Saunders Waterford, Rough, 140lb paper “The point of plein air painting is to capture the light or feel of your subject,” said Mudd. “With watercolor, it’s usually a partial painting that I finish in the studio.” Such was the case for this this painting of a simplified marina in the early morning light.

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1 The current homeowners inherited well-planned landscaping and a large corner lot, which gives the yard a larger feel. The couple has completed additional extensive landscaping and hardscaping, including a lattice brick wall and upper and lower patio areas. Long windows provide plenty of exposure to the outdoors from inside the home year-round.

“We love to travel, but we love being home,” she says.

“It’s lovely.”

This Lexington home enjoys a park-like setting, inside and out, no matter what the weather

By Christina Noll Photography by Walt Roycraft

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A

Home for All Seasons

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2 Unlike many formal foyers, this one is well used. “We come and go through the front door a lot,” says the homeowner. The leaded glass side lights and transom are a nice architectural feature and also provide ample light. A bow front chest allows easy access to pass through the hallway, while an antique chest features a mirrored base and marble top. An etched smoke bell light fixture and porcelain cane and umbrella holder finish out the space.

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3

Situated on a large corner lot

and surrounded by mature trees and well-planned landscaping, this Lexington home enjoys scenic views all yearround. Despite its convenient, central location, the home is a tranquil retreat. “It’s a house that from the inside and outside, even in the winter, with the texture and the evergreen, you really feel and enjoy all four seasons,” says the homeowner.

The house was built in 1983, however, about 22 years ago the original owners made plans to relocate. The homeowners were lucky enough to get a call from a neighbor before the home even went on the market. As it turned out, both the current and past homeowners were working with the same realtor, Becky Mobley, and in a short time the transfer was made. The family considers themselves lucky to have found a home they enjoy so thoroughly, year-round. “We inherited good bones—both with the landscaping and the way the house was placed on the lot,” says the homeowner. “And we’ve been here ever since and enjoying it.”

Originally built as a spec house, the home features all walnut floors downstairs. In addition, the kitchen cabinets were originally walnut, but the current homeowner changed them during a remodeling project about ten years ago.

“Everything to the right side of the front door changed,” she explains. ‘You could literally look through the studs to the garage (during the remodel).”

3 “We adore this room—we live in every room but this is one we really enjoy,” says the homeowner of the home office which features walnut wood paneling along the walls. The cozy spot is accentuated with silk printed drapery and a suede wingback chair, providing the room with texture. The writing desk is the first desk the homeowner used when he began practicing law 35 years ago.

The project included a complete renovation of the kitchen, but ended up including the office due to the way the space was configured. Before the renovation, the office had three door openings—one to a hallway bath, one to the den and another from the hall into the room itself. The homeowners worked with Greg Butcher and Phil Dunn, both with Architectural Kitchen and Bath of Lexington, at the time. “The two of them walked in and saw the bay windows that looked out on the backyard and the strange door openings in this room,” says the homeowner. “They weren’t there five minutes and Greg said we needed to flip this space completely.”

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6 4 The homeowners turned an enclosed breezeway between the garage and den into a well-loved sunroom using comfortable furnishings and a sailing theme. “It’s a real bright and inviting space that really brings the outside in,” says Gyor. “The height is wonderful because there is a 4-step elevation so you get a real feeling of being outside.” Exposed brick and a natural finish bead board ceiling, along with a glass-less brass lantern add to the outdoor feel in this warm and cozy spot.

In order to flip the layout, 26 inches had to be taken from the home office to give space for the walk through in the kitchen and create depth for appliances. In the process, they also moved the opening to the office and shut off the opening from the office into the den. The homeowner had always thought it would be great to have wood paneling placed in the office, and since it was already undergoing a facelift, it seemed the right time. “With the walnut floors, it had to be walnut paneling,” she says.

5 Although an upcoming remodeling project will change some of the master bedroom design, it will remain in neutral colors. The homeowners are both avid readers, so large bookshelves are filled and Imari lamps provide light and style for reading in the relaxing leather chair and ottoman. The bench at the foot of the bed features a paisley print with equestrian hunt tapestry that compliments the art over the rice post bed.

Another place the homeowners added walnut paneling is around the fireplace mantel in the den. With the remodel, a large opening from the kitchen to the den was made, including a step down into the den space. This gave a renewed appreciation for the view of the fireplace and allowed them to include a coffered ceiling.

“We both love a coffered ceiling and because you step down, it does not feel like you are losing the height of this room.”

6 The living room runs front to back in the house, providing wonderful cross lighting with large windows framed with tone on tone brocade draperies. In addition to a beautiful oriental rug, two comfortable Lounge chairs make for a nice conversation area around the fireplace. Imari lidded vases on the fireplace and bronze statuary compliment the warm wood furnishings.

Throughout the home, lovely oriental rugs and runners— almost all from Dana Kelly Oriental Rugs of Lexington— compliment the traditional furnishings. “We’ve gotten to the point where we are blessed to have some beautiful pieces,” says the homeowner.

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7 The den is located a couple of steps down from the elevation of the main house, giving it a separate and distinct space. Oil painting of jockeys, a racing scene over the fireplace, and several bronze statues of horses provide an equestrian theme to the room. The needlepoint pillows are equestrian as well. “The brass and glass top coffee table provides a good base without looking too heavy,” explains Gyor. The draperies match the tufted chair and ottoman, while the black leather sofa and chair give it a masculine feel.

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8 In the dining room the Etruscan red paint carries over from the formal living room. A two-tier antique brass colonial chandelier hangs over the pedestal dining table and Chippendale chairs. There are also fresh flower arrangements in Imari containers, something the homeowner likes to do herself and places throughout the home. The French chest shown is a favorite and the curved sideboard mimics the similar piece in the foyer.

The French doors in the dining room offer access to a courtyard style upper patio and the lush backyard..

The couple also makes a point of incorporating elements of their love of dogs and equestrians throughout, including art and statuary. “We particularly like Labradors,” she explains. As for horses, “It’s hard to live in Central Kentucky and not have an appreciation or love of them,” she says. “And we both have a deep love of animals. I think we’re drawn to that when we’re shopping.”

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The homeowners rely on Andra Gyor of Janice’s at the Saltbox in Lexington for interior design inspiration. “I’ve worked with the family for years so they are long time clients,” says Gyor. “They love classic design.”

One important design decision influenced by Andra was the paint color in the formal living room and dining room. “The color is called Etruscan Red, a paint color that works well with corals and peaches and ivories,” says Gyor. The color also works well with all the wood pieces in the room, it’s rich color bringing out the depth of the wood, regardless of whether they are antique or newer.

“Andra’s thoughts and touch and pieces are throughout the house,” says the homeowner.

“But as she knows, we’re kind of eclectic so we may add or move around pieces. Most rooms have more than a basic Andra feel and we’re happy with that.”

In the near future, they will work with Gyor again, this time on a remodeling project in their master bedroom and bath. “That means new window treatments and we may do some arched wood trim on the bookshelves, just to curve things up,” she says. The homeowners are both avid readers, filling up the bookshelves around the house.

9 9 Due to the renovation a decade ago, the kitchen bay window now overlooks the brick patio and spectacular gardens. While beautiful, the kitchen is also highly functional and the homeowners cook there daily. “It’s not a huge kitchen but it has everything you need,” she says. Features include granite countertops with a heavy double OG edge, beveled subway tile backsplash, double ovens, a microwave drawer and warming drawer. Glass front cabinets offer an area to display favorite serving pieces. “It’s a real clean palate that breaks up the dining room and the den,” says Gyor.

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1 Detail of the intricate stonework that adorns the façade of the historic Conrad-Caldwell House Museum in Old Louisville.

Conrad’s

Castle

Discover the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum in Historic Old Louisville

By Kirsten E. Silven Photography by Walt Roycraft

ALSO KNOWN AS SIMPLY “CONRAD’S CASTLE,” the breathtaking 10,000-square-foot Conrad-Caldwell House Museum is located in the historic Old Louisville neighborhood close to the beautiful residences of St. James Court.

Built between 1892-1895, it sits on the site of the Southern Exposition of 1883, which was originally scheduled to last for 100 days, but actually stayed open for five years due to its overwhelming popularity.

This location is significant, because the Southern Exposition was home to one of the largest electrified buildings in the world at that time, which provided the necessary infrastructure to fulfill Conrad Caldwell’s vision. The home was built to feature all the latest innovations of the time, including interior plumbing and electric lighting. It is also known for its stunning woodwork and parquet floors, which showcase a variety of American quilting patterns in their diverse designs.

“It was easy for the house, which was part of the new neighborhood around St. James Court, to connect to the grid because the infrastructure was already in place,” shared Kate Meador, who serves as executive director of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum. “The neighborhood also offered residents easy trolley connections to downtown and Churchill Downs.”

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2 Crafted from local Bedford Indiana limestone, construction on the majestic, 10,000-square-foot Conrad-Caldwell house lasted for three years and was completed in 1895. Done in the Richardsonian Romanesque style and designed by famed architect Arthur Loomis, the home incorporated as many local materials as possible, along with all of the latest innovations of the time.

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3 3 Located on the third floor, this stately room once served as the office for Theophile Conrad and later, for the home’s second owner William Caldwell.

The parquet wood floor illustrates one example of the various American quilting patterns selected for different rooms throughout the home, while the ceiling beams were added by the Caldwells, along with the painted glass windows, giving the room a distinct Tudor feel. The two boxes visible to the right in this shot once housed William Caldwell’s many property deeds, while some of his drawing and engineering tools can be seen on the desk.

The residence is accentuated by ornately carved limestone from Bedford, Indiana, on its exterior, along with gorgeous stained-glass windows, and represents Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and was designed by renowned architect Arthur Loomis. Inside, seven different types of hardwood are incorporated throughout the home, which houses an impressive collection of antiques, period items and reproductions, including many of the home’s original pieces.

The home is named for both its first owner, tanning merchant Theophile Conrad, as well as its second owner, William Caldwell, who designed and patented an elevated water tank system and founded a company that eventually became the Caldwell Tank Company. Both influenced the home’s design with the help of their wives, Mary Conrad and Elaine Caldwell, each contributing to make it one of the most stunning homes in Louisville. The Caldwells were well-acquainted with the Conrads and in 1908 purchased the fully-furnished home from Mary after Theophile’s death. Before moving in, the Caldwells redecorated and hired an interior designer from New York, as well as local firm Bittners, to create the look and feel of the home that can still be toured today.

The Caldwells had two children, Walter and Grace, who sold the home in 1944 to Vesta Lasley, who operated a boarding house primarily for female students and faculty at the University of Louisville, before it was purchased in 1948 by the Presbyterian Church and established as the Rose Anna Hughes Home for Widows, which it remained until the mid-1980s when the organization outgrew the space. In 1987 residents on St. James Court purchased the house and established the St. James Court Historic Foundation to run the property as a non-profit museum. Today, tours are available at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday, with tours at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. every Saturday.

For more information, including details about special dates for tours, rentals, upcoming concerts and events, visit www.conrad-caldwell.org or call (502)636-5023.

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4 4 Crown molding in a dental pattern and inlaid wood on the ornate coffered ceiling immediately work to draw the eye upward in the home’s billiard room, which is situated on the third floor across from the office. This space also features a wall of built-in storage, as well as access to a smoking porch just to the left of the stone fireplace, which is topped by a crest that was supposed to belong to the Caldwell family, but was later found to be an incorrect representation.

5 The library showcases another stunning example of the Conrad-Caldwell home’s incredible parquet flooring and is where the gentlemen would have entertained guests. The chandelier is a copy of a fixture Mrs. Caldwell found while traveling in Europe and she also added the fireplace mantel, while the custom window treatments are reproductions of the originals, both of which were created by Bittners.

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6 6 The home’s breathtaking handcrafted grand staircase rises up from an expansive hall, showcasing the home’s extensive custom woodwork and impressive scale. A working hearth is situated just to left of the stairwell on the ground floor, while the massive mural that adorns the upper reaches of the space depicts Lake Maggiore in Italy and was commissioned by Theophile Conrad for his wife to commemorate their honeymoon.

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8 7 This full bath is found on the second floor and was added after the Presbyterian Church purchased the property in 1948 to convert it into the Rose Anna Hughes Home for Widows, which it remained until the mid-1980s when the organization outgrew the space. The floors here are marble, while the claw-foot tub and sink were either original to the home or donated from a similar historic residence nearby, in keeping with the property’s original style.

8 Elaborate spandrels adorn the home’s entryway, while a massive hall tree gives an idea of the scale of this space, which features 13-foot ceilings. The library is just visible to the left here, while the parlor is situated through the doorway to the right of the entry.

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9 Boasting a decidedly more feminine feel, the parlor is where women would have entertained and today features portraits of Theophile Conrad (left) and William Caldwell (right) and is where the NouLou Chamber Players gather for performances of their ongoing parlor series at the museum. Once again, the custom woodwork and parquet flooring takes center stage, while period reproduction furniture completes the look and lends authenticity to the space.

10 The formal dining room is where the family would have taken all three daily meals and the china on the table here is a replica of the original pattern owned by the Caldwells. The room has gorgeous inlaid parquet floors and elaborate handcrafted wainscoting, while the mantel is original to the space and features tile from Valparaiso, Indiana.

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House Credits: Architect: Arthur Loomis Interior Design: Bittner’s

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The Evolution of an

Exotic Lodge

1 David and Carol Krebs’ stately ranch is located on a corner lot in Louisville’s Indian Hills neighborhood. The traditional exterior reflects David’s style while Carol’s vibrant personality is evident in the color of the front and gate doors, painted Benjamin Moore’s Caliente. M and J Landscaping maintain the home’s acre of land.

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Designer Skye Squires & homeowners Carol & David Krebs collaborated to create a look both traditional & eclectic.

By Heather N. Russell-Simmons Photography by Walt Roycraft

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A CHANCE, AND SOMEWHAT

calculated, encounter led to designer Skye Squires working with Carol and David Krebs to redecorate their 6,000 square foot home in Louisville’s Indian Hills neighborhood. Carol Krebs researched local design firms and was impressed with Barry Wooley Designs homes she read about and also with Squires’ online bio. “I decided to visit the store and see how I was treated,” Krebs said. As fate would have it, “I happened to greet Carol at the door,” said Squires. That greeting solidified Krebs’ instinct and their working relationship began.

“Carol said she wanted an exotic lodge feel, which I found extremely interesting,” said Squires, who incorporated vintage pieces and textiles to accomplish that feel. “The stunning, oneof-a-kind rugs from a vendor in Nashville were a driving factor in the decisions we made,” she said. “Vibrant colors and unusual designs from the rugs inspired the hunt for fabrics and artwork that were equally intriguing.” Squires framed a vintage Polynesian hand blocked textile between two lounge chairs as a conversation piece. “That modern adaptation counterbalances the traditional characteristics and heavy wood architectural elements of the home.”

“David has more traditional tastes compared to Carol’s, which are more eclectic,” said Squires. “A space loses interest when it is strictly one look, so there are a few rules of thumb I stick to for every project that create fluid cohesion without dominating in any style,” she said. “Weaving two or more styles together can be challenging, but also exciting. It’s all about balancing one with the other.”

Squires’ ability to balance the Krebs’ different tastes earned their trust bringing in new items and using existing pieces. “Skye would say she had a surprise; and I’d come home to see what she had installed and I would love it,” said Krebs. “And she was more than happy to reuse what we had. We had our sectional sofa arranged where we thought everyone could watch TV. Skye rearranged the sofa, removed tables, added chairs and made it work better.” A collection of artwork sat unhung, collecting dust until Krebs asked if Squires could display the work. “Skye said, ‘If it means something to you then I want to use it!’ And that’s how the gallery came to be,” said Krebs of a hallway in their home that now displays her son’s photography from Puerto Rico and other sentimental framed art.

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2 “As a designer, my sticking point is people who forget about hallways—they are more than a pass through,” said designer Skye Squires, who worked with the Krebs’ on redecorating rooms in their house. Filling the wall floor to ceiling with art the homeowners owned, including photographs their son took while the couple lived in Puerto Rico, turned the hallway into a gallery space. The flush mount light fixture was inspired by the starburst mirror the couple owned.

3 Acknowledging the color could be shocking to homeowners, Squires used a matte black paint to ground the formal living room and showcase the beautiful woodwork.

“Rugs were a driving feature for decisions in the house,” said Squires, noting the colorful, one-of-a-kind Tibetan rug that incorporates colors used throughout the house, subtly tying rooms together for an even flow and feel.

4 “This room is still in the works,” said Squires.

“The mirrors on the back wall, seen from the front door, draw you into the space.”

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5 “Our first concern for redecorating was the dining room,” said Krebs.

“David and I love to entertain, but the dining room bothered me.”

Reclaimed wood beams, a brownstone fireplace and fabric wall covering made the room feel darker than it was. As with other rooms in the home, the jewel tones of the Tibetan rug under the table drove the decorating decisions. “We added a whitewash to the stone fireplace and painted the grass cloth wall covering a soft cream to layer texture with the existing rustic beams,” said Squires. The light fixture is a collection of eight suspended gold leaf branches, each with hand-wired crystals that were installed by a team member at Barry Wooley. “The cut velvet dining chairs add dimension with a black and white design from Nate Berkus combined with a pop of color in rust on the back,” Squires said.

Squires was pleasantly surprised at the Krebs’ willingness to go bold. “I knew Carol’s favorite color, like mine, was black,” Squires said, recalling how quickly Krebs agreed to painting walls in the formal living room a matte black. “When everything was white, nothing stood out,” said Krebs. “Now, you can see the woodwork and the artwork.”

“We were on the same wavelength,” said Krebs of the relationship with Squires. Originally hired for work on the dining room and master bed room, “It evolved,” said Krebs with a laugh. “Once the master was redecorated, the hallway needed redecorated. Then the entry, then the living room. Skye tied the rooms together so they were no longer completely different from each other, there was an easy, natural flow from one space to the next. It just made sense to keep going.”

Repetition and pattern, in deliberate design choices, are how Squires achieved an easy, natural flow. In the entry sit two, realistic branch structure lamps. In the adjoining formal living room are abstract branch design wall sconces. The dining room chandelier is a series of branch shapes. Rust colors are evident in the dining room chair back as well as rugs throughout the home, including the master bathroom. Nothing repeats or matches exactly, but different elements compliment each other throughout.

“Finding balance between comfort, function and aesthetics makes a house a home,” said Squires.

56 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

5 A sleek, modern drum light, hung above a hand-woven Persian rug, anchors the home’s landing space.

“I didn’t want to line walls with furniture in here,” said Squires.

Instead, she paired a custom-made zebra hide upholstered ottoman with a narrow table. Although functional, the ottoman is mostly decorative and provides a sense of depth.

6 “Thomas Kute, a friend of ours, deserves a lot of credit for the kitchen,” said Carol Krebs. “He’s the architect and designer we worked with when we first moved in.” A few years after settling in, the Krebs’ called on Squires for additional decorating support throughout the home. “The kitchen was beautiful, so we made a few minor adjustments, like updating the lighting to distinguish the two islands,” said Squires. “The drum light has a disco feel and the pendants provide direct light concentrated on the cooking surface.”

7 Layered textures tie the dining room together. Wood beams outline the top and bottom of the walls, the massive light fixture is a series of eight glamourous branch structures with hand-wired crystals, the whitewashed fireplace is made of stone, the grass cloth wall covering was painted a soft cream and the chairs are upholstered with cut velvet.

8 Working with incredible architectural features, such as the barrel ceiling with beams, Squires chose to keep the art and furnishings hushed in the great room. A wooly, yellow Sherpa blanket rests on the chair by the fireplace to create an inviting space.

Red oak floors and an abundance of natural light add to the room’s warmth.

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Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 57

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9 “For five or six years, this room was a dull, neutral white because David and I didn’t know what to do to achieve a spa-like space we wanted,” said Krebs. “Skye asked what we meant by ‘spa-like’, and I said ‘different, bold.’”

When Squires shared a design board outlining ideas for the master bedroom, “My jaw dropped!” said Krebs.

“Bold wall color is a trend that hasn’t quite hit Kentucky,” said Squires of the gold paint grounded by the dark wood furniture and black lamps by Kelly Wearstler. The custom window treatments hang from an acrylic drapery rod, giving the fabric a light and bright look. The chaise was reupholstered in a fabric that incorporates the gold, white and black colors of the room.

10 With a black and gold mural-effect wall covering already in place, Squires chose a solid, rust color rug for this area of the master bathroom. “That rug works because it’s not overwhelming,” Squires said. “It also brings in colors from other areas in the house.”

10 58 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

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62 • for Jan/Feb 2018& $2500 • Kentucky & Gardens

DISCOVERING KENTUCKY

The Aviation Museum of Kentucky Celebrate aviation history and get inspired about the future at this hands-on, family-friendly museum.

By Christina Noll Photography Courtesy of The Aviation Museum of Kentucky

“We’re probably one of Kentucky’s 1 The Aviation Museum of Kentucky is located at Bluegrass Airport in Lexington.

best kept secrets,” says Jerry Landreth, a long-time volunteer with the Aviation Museum of Kentucky. As a former corporate pilot, Landreth was drawn to the Aviation Museum as a way to give back to kids who have an interest in aviation.

Located at Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport, the Aviation Museum features 20,000 square feet of aviation restoration projects, both military and civilian aircraft, aviation memorabilia, library archive and gift shop. “Currently we are in the process of restoring the cockpit of a Navy A3 Skywarrior, the largest naval aircraft to operate off an aircraft carrier,” says Landreth. “Our eventual plans, once finished, are that folks can get inside the cockpit and see what a military aircraft actually looks like on the inside.”

The Aviation Museum, which opened in 1995, began when several members of the Kentucky Aviation History Roundtable decided to start a museum with some of the memorabilia they had collected.

First located in a single corporate airplane hangar at Bluegrass Airport, the Aviation Museum moved to more space located on the grounds in 2010. Now, plans are underway to open a room featuring aviation related activities of interest to young children who visit with their parents.

The focus of the Aviation Museum has always been on providing programs for kids. One of these programs is a two-day camp that began in 1996 and just this past year surpassed 6,000 in overall number of students who have attended. The camp, which is geared toward kids ages ten to 16, exposes participants to all aspects of aviation.

“One of the highlights is we take three students at a time up in the air with a certified flight instructor and each student gets to fly a 30-minute leg of the flight,” explains Landreth. He says that some of the kids who have attended the camp have gone to have careers as pilots or in aircraft manufacturing, and one is now a Senior at the Airforce Academy. In addition to taking place in Lexington each June, the camp is also offered in Bowling Green, Louisville, Pikeville and Hazard during select weeks in the month of July.

1 Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens • 63

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IF YOU GO: The Aviation Museum of Kentucky is located at Blue Grass Airport, 4029 Airport Road, Lexington.

Call 859-231-1219 or visit www.aviationky.org for more info.

HOURS January through March, Tue-Fri, 11am to 4pm Saturday, 10am to 5pm Sunday, 1pm to 5pm April through December, Tue-Sat, 10am to 5pm Sunday, 1pm to 5pm COST Children under 5 & Members are free.

Children 6-16: $5.00 Adults 17-59: $8.00 Seniors 60+: $6.00 Veterans: $6.00

4 2-4 Visitors to the Aviation Museum will see a wide variety of historical, military, and civilian aircrafts.

Another opportunity for kids interested in aviation comes through the Aviation Museum’s Saturday STEM program. Funded by a grant from NASA and UK College of Engineering, the program teaches kids about the jobs available in the aviation field. “We’re trying to teach kids math and science and keep it fun at the same time,” says Landreth.

The Aviation Museum, however, is not just for kids.

Each year, visitors come from all 50 states and around the world to see changing traveling exhibits, historical aircraft, artifacts, documents and other memorabilia. Guided tours are available or you can learn from knowledgeable volunteer docents during a self-guided tour. Historic Aviation events each year include World War II-era aircraft such as restored barnstormers, vintage airliners, and historic Warbirds.

The Aviation Museum also hosts quarterly lectures featuring speakers from around the world.

“One of the other things that we do is house the Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame,” explains Landreth. “Each year we honor Kentuckians who have done something significant in the field of aviation.” Forty-five Kentuckians have been honored to date, and new honorees are always sought.

64 • Jan/Feb 2018 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

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