Kentucky Homes & Gardens May/June 2019 by Kentucky Homes & Gardens

KENTUCKY HOMES MAY/JUNE 2019

GARDENS

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Kentucky Homes & Gardens May/June Volume 16 Issue 3 On the Cover: Integrity with a Twist

photograph by Christine Mueller Turn to page 42 to see more.

16 14 42

HOME IMPROVEMENT

16 HOMESCAPES: Great Grilling

SPECIAL FEATURES 18 GARDEN: Enchanted Escape 22 FEATURE: Luxury Pools 30 ARTIST: Lakshmi Sriraman

HOMES 34 Tranquil Haven 42 Integrity with a Twist

50 Attention to Detail

GO KENTUCKY! 14 COOKING IN KY: Volare Italian Ristorante 58 DISCOVERING KY: Kentucky Vietnam Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Memorial

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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 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 Susan McClelland 704-491-1288 • susanm1805@gmail.com Editors: Rick Phillips, Carolyn Rasnick Senior Associate Editor: Kirsten E. Silven Photography: Walt Roycraft Contributing Writers: Christina Noll Kirsten E. Silven

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8 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

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COOKING IN KENTUCKY 2

1 1 The eclectic, Sommelier-designed wine list at Volare provides the perfect complement to every meal, offering an impressive selection of wines by the bottle and by the glass.

2 The bar at Volare Italian Ristorante in Louisville offers a wide variety of refreshing, handcrafted specialty cocktails & martinis.

Volare Italian Ristorante A

By Kirsten Silven

3 Enjoy delectable small bites from the Volare bar menu, including this antipasto of assorted cured meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables and grissini.

Photos courtesy of Volare

s one of Louisville’s premier fine dining establishments, Volare Italian Ristorante serves up modern, inventive Italian cuisine with a generous helping of traditional southern hospitality on the side. The restaurant has been a much-loved fixture of the historic Clifton neighborhood for nearly 15 years, featuring crisp, white-linen-topped tables illuminated by soft candlelight, as well as an impressive collection of contemporary Italian-inspired artwork and an eye-catching, floor to ceiling wine rack housing one of the best wine lists in the city, including many great selections on the Reserve list.

The menu and atmosphere at Volare are both steeped in the traditions of Italy, infused with a refreshing modern attitude. The cuisine encompasses classic Italian dishes, as well as the freshest seafood and certified Angus beef selections, all paired with savory seasonal vegetables. During an August 2017 remodel, Chef Moore also acquired a Pasta Extruder that he uses to prepare handmade pastas daily, and Volare is known far and wide for its wacky but very real Fish Friday social media snapshots and delectable menu selections.

Having started his journey into fine dining management washing dishes at a local Louisville restaurant after school at the tender age of 15, Tarullo has parlayed his love of food into a full-time career in the food service industry and has worked at some of the Derby City’s top dining establishments before coming to Volare. Like all great leaders in the restaurant biz, Tarullo is intimately familiar with every aspect of restaurant operation and has performed virtually every job imaginable in Guests will usually find Managing Partner and Executive the industry. These diverse experiences in the culinary Chef Josh Moore in the kitchen, preparing fresh and world have given him the depth and perspective to be inspired dishes that utilize many locally sourced and an effective manager with a comprehensive knowlhouse-made products, including a number of seasonal edge base, a high level of empathy, and a refined, items that come from his own farm. service-oriented approach towards guests. “Since opening our doors in August of 2004, Volare has remained one of the great locally owned and operated treasures amongst Louisville’s bustling restaurant scene, serving locals and visitors alike,” shared General Manager and Managing Partner Jonathan Tarullo. “We continually provide consistent, yet unique Italian cuisine which brings diners back time and again.”

Capellini di Sorrento Serves 4 Prep time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 25 minutes

Ingredients • 1 ½ lbs. rock shrimp • 4 cloves garlic (peeled & minced) • 4 oz butter (cut into small cubes) • 8 oz Pinto Grigio • 1 ½ oz lemon juice • 4 oz heavy cream • Salt & pepper • ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper • 1 tsp. Italian parsley (chopped) • 1 tsp. fresh basil (chopped) • 2 oz parmigiano (grated) • 1 # Dececco Capellini pasta

Method

Live music is offered Wednesday through Saturday in the bar area at Volare, where guests can also enjoy a special menu featuring a variety of appetizers and flatbread pizzas, along with premium wines at half price by the bottle every evening. Given the restaurant’s commitment to service, it’s also the perfect place to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, proposals and more, with two private dining areas to choose from.

1) Start a pot of boiling water for the capellini. 2) In a sauté pan, melt the butter and add the garlic. 3) Sauté the garlic for about 20 seconds, then add the herbs, salt & pepper, crushed red pepper, white wine, lemon & cream. 4) Simmer until sauce begins to thicken. 5) Add the rock shrimp and parmesan, being careful not to overcook the shrimp. 6) Drop the pasta into the boiling water and cook until al dente. 7) Combine the pasta and sauce. 8) Serve & enjoy!

To Serve: Chef Moore recommends hollowing out four large lemons for the presentation. (Hint: you can also use the juice from these lemons in the recipe!)

In August of 2019, Volare Italian Ristorante will celebrate 15 years on Louisville’s vibrant restaurant scene; a remarkable feat for any independent dining establishment. As the restaurant begins planning for its big anniversary celebration, Tarullo is extremely proud of the consistent growth Volare produces each year and is eager to see what the future holds.

4 Volare Italian Ristorante Executive Chef and Managing Partner Joshua Moore (left), with General Manager and Managing Partner Jonathan Tarullo.

“I am so honored to be a part of the Volare team and look forward to celebrating 15 years with this community and clientele, which has been so supportive of us throughout the years,” he stated.

6 Capellini di Sorrento (see recipe above).

5 The inviting covered patio is conveniently located close to the Volare bar and is also available for smaller private events.

For information about upcoming events, the Volare menu, reservations and more, call (502) 894-4446 or visit www.volare-restaurant.com. Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 15

HOMESCAPES

Great Grilling

Follow the latest outdoor cooking trends to become a backyard barbeque expert.

By Christina Noll

ummer is upon us and it’s time to fire up the grill. Whether you’re planning to dust off your faithful old charcoal grill or invest in a new smoker, it helps to know what’s new and exciting in outdoor grilling this season.

“Most customers have multiple types of grills, including charcoal, gas, plancha/flat top, or pellet,” says Shannen Bunton, Chef and Sales Consultant at Housewarmings in Lexington. The most popular grills and accessories right now include dedicated smokers, especially pellet models, as well as planchas, which are flat topped griddle surfaces, rotisserie kits, and high-quality thermometers that enable you to monitor your food away from the grill.

TECH-CONTROLLED TEMPERATURE Smartphones help us control almost every aspect of our lives today, and now they’re making it even easier to grill the perfect steak. Smart technology uses wi-fi and Bluetooth to control digital thermometers and regulate the temperature in pellet smokers and charcoal-fired cookers. Many include integrated meat probes that show internal food temps and automatically adjust the cooking temperature when needed. These technologically savvy thermostats allow for much more accurate temperature readings than the past and ensure your food will never be over or under cooked.

BEYOND THE GRILL “Having a place to store your grilling tools is just as important as having a place to chop, slice, dice and grill your food,” says Bunton. That’s one reason outdoor kitchens are becoming one of the latest trends. These spaces go beyond the classic grill or smoker and include multiple cooking surfaces, as well as outdoor sinks, prep surfaces, and refrigeration. Although outdoor kitchens got their start in warm weather climates, the addition of outdoor fireplaces and fire pits has made outdoor grilling and cooking something to enjoy even in colder temperatures.

16 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

BECOMING A GRILL MASTER Finding the right charcoal grill, ceramic smoker, or other outdoor cooking appliance for you means looking to the experts and focusing on quality. “Grilling is NOT just hotdogs and hamburgers,” says Bunton. “Buying from an authorized dealer is a totally different experience than what you may think of buying from a box store.” Look to service professionals to offer demonstrations and classes to help you upgrade your outdoor cooking and find the right cooking surface. “We spend a lot of time with our customers asking a lot of questions to make sure that we find the right style grill for the way they are used to cooking and the way they plan to use their outdoor space,” Bunton explains. “It really comes down to the quality of materials and how well the grill is built, everything from the lid down to the wheels down to the type of hardware,” says Bunton. Once you purchase your grill, service professionals are there to help with maintenance and product issues.

1 The charcoal grill/smoker combination makes the Big Green Egg an ever-popular choice. 2 The Challenger Cart for a gas grill and Big Green Egg combo. 3 The MEATER® Bluetooth thermometer makes finding that perfect temp a cinch. 4 This Eno La Plancha Flat Top Grill is efficient and blends graciously with its surroundings.

No matter which grill you choose, or if you decide to go beyond and set up a full kitchen, you’re sure to enjoy more time outdoors when you invest in cooking there. On outdoor cooking and grilling, Bunton says, “It’s more of a hobby, and like any hobby you get better and more creative with time.”

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 17

GARDENS

1 This artful trellis was constructed by Robert Breeden in memory of local gardening legend Fred Wiche and is surrounded by native rocks, daylilies and decorative grasses along the fence, as well as salvia, pink roses and clematis. 2 Situated just outside the kitchen door and also visible from the master bedroom, the charming koi pond and water feature is home to more than 22 fish and a variety of different plantings, including peonies, daylilies, miscanthus grass and clematis, as well as pots of annuals for pops of color and boxwoods to lend additional structure.

Enchanted Escape By Kirsten E. Silven Photography by Walt Roycraft

panning about two and a half acres and more than 28 years of life, the garden of Robert and Carolyne Breeden has evolved over the decades into the alluring sanctuary seen here today, which includes a real-life fairy cottage and tea house, a water feature teeming with shimmering koi fish and plenty of places to sit a spell as you take in the idyllic views. But things were not always so pleasing to the eye, and a considerable amount of work was required to create these intricate garden spaces, which are designed to bloom every few weeks from early spring through late summer. “There were no flowers and it was mostly just grass when we moved in, but there were also trees and some brush to remove below the house,” Carolyne shared. “First, we removed the old gravel driveway and added a sidewalk, then I drew a diagram of the beds and began the process of selecting plantings based on both form and function.” The result is beguiling, with more than 35 different clematis and ample roses, as well as astilbe, dianthus, Rozanne geraniums, blue bellflowers, salvia, phlox, coneflowers, boxwoods, ferns and hostas - to name only a few - each planted where they can thrive with the perfect amount of sun and shade. “I just love pink and blue flowers,” Carolyne added, “and we have thousands of flowers, including a number of hostas, that can really thrive in shady areas.”

But plants are not the only entity to flourish in the Breeden garden, which has at least 20 captivating koi fish who make their home in the bubbling water feature. Situated just off the kitchen and also visible from the master bedroom window, this calming spot features a bright red painted bench that was handmade by Robert, while two statues of traditional Chinese Fu dogs (not pictured) were a gift from friends in China that work to complete the vaguely Oriental feel of this space. Other notable highlights include a wonderful trellis handmade by Robert in honor of local gardening legend Fred Wiche that is adorned with pink clematis and climbing roses, as well as happy surprises in the form of playful statuary and functional art pieces tucked here and there, lending a touch of whimsy at every turn. The Breedens have also made wonderful use of all the natural stone that’s readily available on the property, using it to provide definition and structure as needed in a way that is both organic and distinguished. Having made appearances on a number of different home and garden tours over the years, including Louisville’s annual Kilgore Garden Tour, Robert and Carolyne Breeden’s enchanted sanctuary continues to be a source of endless joy for the couple, who will continue to carefully curate new plantings and lovingly tend to the verdant outdoor spaces they have painstakingly brought to life.

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 19

5 6

7 3 A thriving cactus provides the ideal crown for this statue planter, which stands sentry in front of the home and was found at St. Matthews Feed & Seed. 4 Lush ostrich ferns and Winter Hardy begonia surround this fanciful sprite, who wears a shawl of roses and strides confidently in the shade garden located beside the home. 5 Delicate purple bell-shaped clematis and a band of merry metal crows found in Berea adorn the front gate, welcoming all who come to explore the splendid gardens beyond. 6 A vibrant oriental lily holds court in the front garden near the house, while astilbe, boxwood and hydrangeas are also just visible in the background. 7 Decorative grasses create a swaying sea of green, while brightly-hued astilbe lends vibrant color to this space and pavers wind through the plantings, encouraging exploration.

8 Built by Robert Breeden for the couple’s 10th anniversary, this fascinating tea house has hosted a variety of cheerful gatherings with friends and family. It has lighting, a ceiling fan and is stocked with lovely pink dishes and plenty of books, featuring two Queen Anne chairs and a table with additional seating. Located behind the home in a sun-dappled spot, plantings here include irises, lilies and roses, as well as a Japanese maple and boxwoods, which provide a touch of green throughout the year. 9 This delightful butterfly bench was a surprise birthday gift from Robert to Carolyne Breeden and offers a cheerful place to stop and rest while taking in the garden’s many charms. Princess Diana clematis is visible here on the smaller trellis, along with some Creeping Jenny, phlox, blue bellflower, Rozanne geraniums and potted annuals for additional color, while bright pink clematis can also be seen climbing up the bird house pole in the distance. 10 A whimsical metal butterfly sculpture the Breedens found at the St. James Court Art Show in Old Louisville holds court here next to some bright orange butterfly weed, where Carolyne Breeden has found multiple caterpillars in the magical process of transformation. Other plantings visible here include purple clematis and Graham Thomas English climbing roses.

20 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 21

SPECIAL FEATURE

Dive

Into the Backyard of Your

Dreams

By Kirsten E. Silven

22 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

1 This chic, contemporary swimming pool is a stunning focal point in an expansive outdoor living space that offers ample room for entertaining and is easy to access from inside the home. The infinity edge pool and sunken firepit work with travertine tile and a luxurious pool house to create a distinct Mediterranean feel. Photo courtesy of Premier Pools & Spas.

Kentucky Homes & Gardens â&#x20AC;˘ May/June 2019 â&#x20AC;˘ 23

24 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

2 A massive rock mountain features a tube slide and creates a dramatic effect in this backyard oasis, which also has a breathtaking vanishing edge and Hartstone Tile decking that hides a heated pathway leading to the spa below. Other highlights include a custom iron railing, spacious pool house and fire pit, as well as a swim-up bar and stunning blue Hydrazzo pool interior surface, which can be polished if necessary and is virtually maintenance free. Photo, design and installation by Gym & Swim.

3 A freeform gunite pool with infinity edge overlooks rolling farmland where horses graze, featuring a black onyx plaster finish to create a natural look and surrounded by cantilevered stamped concrete. Photo, design and installation by Geddes Pools.

kin to a crackling fire, the sound of running water and the feeling of floating weightless are both soothing and stimulate the brain, reaching deep into the recesses of our consciousness to foster feelings of safety and community. Today’s pool designs incorporate some of the most memorable, luxurious and exciting options, making it more enjoyable than ever to relax and take a dip on the next hot summer day.

Since swimming pools are no longer just a place to get wet, gone are the days when a rectangular concrete watering hole would suffice. Today’s pools stand in stark contrast to the standard designs of yesteryear, exuding ambiance and artistry at every turn, but they’re also high-tech, offering an array of remote-control features that are smart phone compatible.

“A new swimming pool is not just a great way to invest in a healthier lifestyle, but it’s also in a place where families can come together and create lifelong memories,” stated DJ Geddes, owner of Geddes Pools. “In a world that’s dominated by social media and cell phones, a swimming pool gives us an opportunity to improve our social health and overall wellbeing by spending precious time face to face.” One of the most important things to consider when designing a new pool or refurbishing an existing one is how well the design works with the existing architecture of the home and any outdoor living areas. Whether contemporary or free form, the swimming pool should complement the house and other surrounding structures to create a seamless look and feel. “It’s impossible to overemphasize the importance of working with a landscape architect from the beginning of any project,” shared Todd Hart of Hartstone Tile. “It’s much harder and more expensive to fix a mistake than to design the pool correctly from the start.” In part, a landscape architect’s job is to ensure the pool aesthetic complements the existing house and grounds. He or she can also serve as a guide when it comes to selecting the best materials for surfaces, retaining walls, surrounding structures, interior finish, coping and more. Working with an experienced pool design professional from the project’s start to finish will also help streamline the entire process and ensure that all options are initially kept on the table, so the finished product is something that can be appreciated for many years to come. “I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve a final product that is custom-tailored to their needs and tastes, shared Registered Landscape Architect Rick Rushing of Rushing Design. “Hartstone Tile checks all the boxes and is ideal for pool decks, coping, stair treads and a variety of other features, both architectural and decorative,” added Rushing. “It’s highly customizable and not slippery when wet, remaining cool to the touch even in direct sunlight, and it can be crafted into virtually any size or shape.”

“Today’s pools are all about sizzle and eye candy,” shared Shane Bosemer of Gym and Swim. “Water features are still very popular and almost every pool we build incorporates a tanning shelf.” With the rapid growth of technology and ever-expanding range of ideas, the options for pools today are diverse, including builtin ledges and bars for lounging and socializing, smart lighting, a dizzying array of interior finishes to choose from and other features designed to reduce both energy and maintenance. “It’s essential to get an outdoor lighting designer involved early in the pool design process,” shared Kyle Adamson of Red Oak Outdoor Lighting. “The placement of PVC conduit under future pool decks and paths for wire will save money down the road, and they can also work with your landscape architect or designer to see what lighting will work best with the pool and landscape. The pool area is a great investment, so enjoy it into the night!” Other current trends include shallow-depth pools designed for exercising or playing water sports, as well as incorporating a variety of luxury finishes in a wide variety of colors and textures. “Infinity edges are becoming more popular, along with highend materials like glass tile, travertine decking, flame features and colored light packages,” shared Missy Hoskins, President of Premier Pools & Spas. “This turns the pool into a place you can enjoy both day and night.” “Swimming pool design has evolved from being just a hole in the ground with water, into themed, lifestyle pieces that are located in the backyard,” Hoskins added. In short, modern swimming pools have become destinations designed to provide all the comforts of an indoor space, outside. From the drama of fire bowls, fountains and waterfalls to the tranquility of natural stone grottos and the excitement of a high-quality stereo system, pools today are experiential and multi-dimensional, coming to life in new ways to delight the senses and soothe the soul.

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 25

4 Featuring a freeform design crafted with pavers and stacked stone, this swimming pool and spa creates a veritable playground for the homeowners to enjoy, with ample room for friends and family to soak up the secluded setting. Photo courtesy of Artistic Pools.

5 With a massive grotto, several waterfalls and deck jets, a stone bridge, ample seating and a heated spa, this pool is simply begging to be explored. Photo courtesy of Artistic Pools. 6 Colorful LED lights create an energy-friendly party atmosphere in this exceptional swimming pool, which features a grotto and lazy-river design with the water centered around an alluring island that holds a fire pit, heated spa, seating area and outdoor kitchen. Photo courtesy of Premier Pools & Spas. 7 This pastoral playground offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy the quintessential Kentucky views while soaking up the sunshine, with Hartstone Tile on the stair treads, wall caps, deck and coping. There is also a covered raised pavilion and patio area, with walk-out access to the home and a three-car garage beyond. Other features include a tanning shelf with geyser, deck jets and a heated spa with remote control. Design and installation by Rushing Design. Photo by Jacqueline Rushing.

26 â&#x20AC;˘ May/June 2019 â&#x20AC;˘ Kentucky Homes & Gardens

6 7

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 27

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8 An organic, free-form design with rounded edges, natural stone accents, carefully-selected plantings and a water feature lends a natural feel to this backyard oasis, which also features a tanning shelf in the pool, which is highlighted by smart outdoor lighting placement. Photo courtesy of Premier Pools & Spas. 9 The clean geometric design of this luxury swimming pool is accented by a massive pergola, bar and seating area that is accessed by “walking on water” using a series of stepping stones to cross the pool. Other highlights include dual spill bowls and an illuminated waterfall at the far end to complete the look. Photo courtesy of Premier Pools & Spas. 10 Designed to make the most out of the available space, this inviting pool features elements of fire blended with the sound of running water, offering the perfect place to cool off on a hot day and providing an exquisite complement to the home’s adjacent outdoor living areas. Photo courtesy of Premier Pools & Spas.

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 29

ARTIST

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1 Drumbeats • 12”x 36” • Acrylic on Canvas Imagining the colors of a strong drumbeat, Sriraman used red to tie together orange, black and white paints. 2 Buddha Awakening • 15”x 30” • Acrylic on Canvas Created for her Buddha Dots series, Sriraman questioned the internal awakening process. “What do you awaken to?” she wondered. 3 Artist Lakshmi Sriraman, who is juried into the Kentucky Crafted Program, sits before her painting, “Celebration Time” (acrylic on canvas, 48” x 60”). “Every dot is a celebration of gratitude in my life,” she said of the work.

Traditional Art,

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES

t the heart of it all, artist Lakshmi Sriraman is a storyteller who integrates different art forms to create conversations with her audiences. Trained in the 2,000-year-old classical Indian dance Bharatanatyam, Sriraman uses a sophisticated vocabulary of movements and gestures in her performances around the world. When she started dot painting two years ago, she turned to research for a better understanding of the form. “As an educator and practitioner, I believe in the importance of knowing history and tradition before engaging with something. Otherwise, you are appropriating,” she said. “I was drawn to Aboriginal dot painting techniques,” she said of her early work, adding that her current work has evolved from there as inspiration to her own style of textures and shapes. “Even as a performing artist, I had to understand the art form before I could make it my own; before I could find new expressions for that.” Sriraman’s creative inspiration comes from asking, “How can we create a better world; and how can I participate and contribute to that better world?” Answers come from genuine conversations, she said. “I’m not a talk about the weather kind of person,” she laughed. “I want to connect with people and talk about what makes them happy.” In Tamil, her native language, there is delineation between body and mind. “’How are you?’ is asked as, ‘How is your body? or ‘How is your mind?’” she explained, adding that she can engage with people on a deeper level when the answer is, “’My heart is heavy,’ rather than, ‘Fine.’”

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 31

4 Frozen Fire • 24”x 36” • Acrylic on Canvas First in a series of the same name, Sriraman started this painting with the question: How do you freeze fire? “People have their passions frozen inside of them, and my prayer was to unleash the energy we are all given to do what serves us,” she said. 5 Healing Hearts • 40”x 30” • Acrylic on Canvas “The three circles signify prayer wheels of the Buddhist tradition,” Sriraman said. “This was the first in my Prayer Dots series; asking for the hearts of those who heal others to be healed as well.” 6 River Song • 30”x 40” • Acrylic on Canvas Another prayer for healing from the Prayer Dots series, Sriraman visualized waterways fully healed and free of pollution as she painted.

4 When painting, Sriraman, begins with the intent for a joyful process. “I sit with the canvas and meditate,” she said. “Whatever this canvas needs to be, let it flow through me.” Although she often does not know how the final painting will look as she begins, she is fully engaged in the creation from start to finish; always painting with a purpose. Whether sparked by a prayer for displaced people around the world, contemplating inner balance or imagining a force of nature, Sriraman describes her paintings as, “More intuitive than predetermined,” she explained.

Working with acrylics on large canvases painted carbon black, Sriraman uses layers of paint to add different colors to areas on the canvas. “I don’t have a recipe,” she joked of her color use. “It may take several layers to get the specific blue I need, and I may never achieve that blue again!” Using titanium white, the artist then drops three-dimensional dots on the canvas. She then uses a glazed color on the dots. “Depending on the depth of the dot, you may see black coming through from underneath or you may see the glaze on top.” “The purpose of art is to evoke a response from the audience,” Sriraman said. “As a performing artist, I can be specific with the response I evoke.” As an abstract painter, her work is more open to interpretation. “My hope is that my creativity inspires creativity in others,” she said. “That energy can manifest itself in many ways, it doesn’t have be in creating art. There is creativity in the way you cook, garden, even how you communicate with others.”

You can find Sriraman’s work at the Kentucky Artisan Center in Berea, Ky. or on her website at www.lakshmisstudio.com.

32 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

7 Vibrations • 20”x 20” • Acrylic on Canvas “Everything is energy that vibrates at different frequencies,” Sriraman explained of this painting.

8 Just One Kiss • 24”x 36” • Acrylic on Canvas “In this painting, I was imagining lava dipping into the sea,” Sriraman explained of the reds and blues framed by dots to express that moment when fire and water first meet for, “Their first kiss.” 9 Prayer Wheels • 20”x 24” • Acrylic on Canvas “This was my first painting where I used the prayer wheels that I later incorporated into the Prayer Dot series,” said Sriraman. “The movie ‘Black Panther’ had just come out, and Africa was on my mind,” she said of the art created as her general prayer for the continent.

9 Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 33

Tranquil

1 Located in northern Jessamine County, this appealing abode oozes curb appeal in an idyllic pastoral setting, with a three-car garage and custom touches throughout. Foundation plantings lend a polished feel to the home’s front elevation, including redbuds, sweet bay magnolia, hydrangeas and laurel, while a whimsical weather vane tells which way the wind blows and the expansive front porch begs for someone to stop and enjoy the view. 34 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

Haven By Kirsten E. Silven Photography by Walt Roycraft

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 35

2 Soaring ceilings and soft neutral tones lend an open, welcoming atmosphere to the entry hall, which provides easy access to the second floor and also opens to the formal dining room (located to the right in this view). A cozy family room lies just beyond the stairs, while four decorative alcoves perfect for displaying family photos are just visible on the second-floor balcony, and the beautifully embellished wrought-iron-and-wood railing works with the oversized porcelain tile and wood-accent flooring to create a seamless transition at every turn. 3 Featuring a decorative trey ceiling with painted wooden x-beams and custom window treatments to allow for unobstructed views of the rolling Kentucky countryside beyond, the formal dining room is a study in elegance, with shining red oak hardwood floors and a classic feel. 2

HOUSE CREDITS Builder I Schaefer Homes, Inc. Furniture & Accessories Burke Furniture; Suff’s Furniture; Janice’s at the Saltbox Interior Design I Andra Gyor, Janice’s at the Saltbox

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uilt in 2007, this distinguished dwelling offers easy access to country living and all the amenities of town, tucked into a peaceful rural setting in northern Jessamine County. Highlights of the property include an extensive back yard, three-car garage and covered rear porch that has been finished to provide a chic outdoor living area, as well as custom woodwork and high-end finishes throughout all of the home’s interior spaces. The serene, one-acre setting might be what first drew the current owners to this location, but the quality of the house itself is what ultimately sold them on making a move. Although it was only three-quarters of the way complete when they first viewed the property, it was apparent that builder John Schaeffer had spared no effort to ensure that this home would shine as a proud example of expert craftsmanship for many years to come. “We were just planning to remodel the kitchen in our previous home at the time,” shared the owner. “But we completely fell in love with this house and the land, so here we are!” Even after more than a decade, the family has yet to grow tired of the unspoiled pastoral views, which include several surrounding horse and cattle farms, while the finished back

porch remains a favorite gathering place during the spring and summer months. Inside, the floorplan creates a seamless flow that is ideal for entertaining, with more than enough room to host both immediate and extended family in the home’s five bedrooms and five full baths. Other notable features of the property include a first-floor master with en-suite bath, a sizable second-floor playroom and a lower level that is almost entirely finished (with the exception of some additional storage space), to include a work room, exercise area, spacious office with full bath and a TV room. On the second floor, there are three additional bedrooms, each with large closets and a Jack and Jill bath connecting two of the rooms, with a private full bath for the remaining bedroom. From the undisturbed country setting, high-quality finishes and abundant interior spaces, to the chic furniture and accessory choices, intelligent floor plan and other custom touches throughout, this splendid sanctuary offers the ideal backdrop for the family to create unforgettable memories and make the most out of the time they spend together at home.

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4 The handsome family room (aka great room) is a hub of activity in the household, showcasing builder John Schaeferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customary impressive woodwork in the form of decorative ceiling beams and custom built-ins, along with a gas fireplace and floor-to-ceiling window views of the chic, modern outdoor living area on the rear porch just outside. 5 Connecting to the hearth room and great room, the kitchen has a light, breezy feel with granite countertops that feature a beveled edge on the island, along with a travertine perimeter backsplash that is perfectly illuminated with custom lighting. Other touches include a six-burner gas stove and electric oven, as well as a coffee bar, warming drawer and eating nook that looks out over the beautifully finished covered porch and outdoor living area (not pictured). 6 Situated off the kitchen, this enticing hearth room (or keeping room, depending upon your preference), offers a more intimate place for the family to gather by the fire. Featuring a natural stone fireplace flanked by custom built-ins, this room connects to the laundry room and garage, with sweeping views of the pastures and plenty of natural light.

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9 7 A spacious office is located in a finished room in the home’s lower level, which features an abundance of natural light, ample storage and also boasts a full bath.

8 A favorite place for family to gather and play games or just relax, the generous play room and rec room is located on the second floor and features custom built-ins, bucolic views and its very own full bath. 9 Ideally located on the first floor, the master bedroom has a custom trey ceiling and hardwood flooring, promoting a calming mood in soothing neutral tones and a marvelous bay window with its very own seating area, offering peaceful pasture views. 10 The master en-suite bath is an oasis of tranquility, with a tempting tile tub that’s ideal for soaking, as well as a separate shower, sizeable storage, double vanities and a walk-in closet (not pictured).

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1 This 7,000 square foot true Georgian reproduction home, featuring a slate roof, copper gutters and limestone columns, is located on the bluffs of Louisville’s East End overlooking the Ohio River. Lee W. Robinson was the home’s designer from start to finish. Photograph by Tim Furlong, Jr.

Integrity 42 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

with aTwist By Heather N. Russell-Simmons

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2 2 “Had this house been built 200 years ago, the marble floor would be been a black and white checker board,” said Robinson. In his modern interpretation, he chose a softer gray octagon focal point with chrome Schluter ® strips to accent the floor design. Photograph by Christine Mueller.

ee W. Robinson, sole owner and President of The Lee Robinson Company, worked from start to finish with the owners of a 7,000 square foot Georgian reproduction home located in Louisville’s East End. “I had worked with their parents in Palm Beach,” Robinson said of the family. “They knew my skill set,” which he described for this home as steeped in history, but modern. “Integrity with a twist.” Beginning with the homeowner’s desire for an architecturally correct home, Robinson drew a sketch of the home to be refined by an architect. For the interior, “They turned me loose!” Robinson said with a laugh. “I am all about the unexpected details,” he said of his work, noting the sterling silver Georgian salt and pepper shakers he used as finials on the spindle staircase in the foyer. “My design is true to history,” he said of the home. Robinson knew the homeowners wanted to incorporate family antiques into the home, but not every room was to be a period interpretation. “By introducing modern furniture with one or two antiques, we added integrity into each room.” The home’s foyer is one exquisite example of Robinson’s vision.

Inspired by the Georgian style, popular during a century reign by four British monarchs starting in the early 1700s, Robinson was familiar with eagle tables featured in many foyers at the time. For a modern take, Robinson replaced the gold eagle with Thom Filicia’s resin copcake eagle console table. On the stair wall hang two Mary McDonald fabrics, inspired by Gracie Papier Chinoiserie (French for “in the Chinese style) wallpaper, each 8-feet tall and framed in silver leaf for a dramatic effect. Two Louis XVI chairs, upholstered in Mary McDonald’s Park Avenue Python Dove fabric, provide an understated gray to compliment the marble floor’s subdued tile design. “The octagon is a twist on the expected checkerboard design of the era,” Robinson explained. “I like to rethink the use of every room and modernize it,” Robinson said. “The dining room has a large table, but there are also two custom banquettes for a more intimate setting.” This allows the room to be used for more than a grand dinner party. A sense of intimacy is also found in surprising details of the fabrics in the room. “The banquettes are designed with couture elements from dress makers,” he said of the raised cord used to define where two different silks are mitered together.

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3 3 To soften the vast wall of three French door without obstructing natural light, Robinson chose cinch tiebacks for the drapery. For color, he used an aqua and coral fabric on the bergère chairs, an 18th century style with barrel backs and an exposed wood frame. Photograph by Christine Mueller. Rethinking dark paneled Georgian studies, Robinson created a rich, blue ambiance for one of the home’s rooms. “The lacquer is a custom mix from New York,” he said. “Because it could not be shipped, I had to send a truck to get it delivered.” The designer explained that paints come in different finishes, such as eggshell or semi-gloss. Lacquer, however, is a clear coat applied over paint to add depth. “People may be familiar with lacquered furniture, it’s an Asian influence used to seal an underlying painting, usually of an intricate scene,” he said. “I use lacquer for a subtle reflective quality.” Reflecting on the dramatic study, Robinson added that the family asked for a muted color palette throughout the home with simple pops of color. Although study is anything but muted, Robinson’s attention to detail, like the octagonal details of the bookcase and chandelier in the study and the marble floor installation in the foyer as well as the hues of coral in the study’s Oushak rug and living room upholstery, provide a subtle but essential connecting flow from room to room.

Robinson prides himself on elements of custom design for every client. He designed every moulding for this home, including intricate routed out wood set over aged mirrors that line the living room. “I’m always looking for a clever, creative new way to do things so each home will have something no one else will have,” he said. “I own each proprietary design, and work with craftsmen to build and install the work into client’s homes.” Primarily based in Louisville, The Lee Robinson Company has designers in Palm Beach, D.C., New York and Kentucky. As the lead designer, Robinson works all over country and interacts with every single client, but says no job is too small. “I want to be aspirational, not off limits to people.” For anyone considering a new build, renovation or interior design, Robinson said it’s never too early to bring a team together. “It should be holistic from the beginning,” he advised.

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4 The dining room’s wallpaper is handmade of sterling silver-leafed stark. Each piece an individual origami fold. Photograph by Christine Mueller. 5 “Clean, clean, clean was the kitchen’s design motivation,” explained Robinson with a laugh. Because there is no natural light in this room, he added undercounter and cabinet lights. Photograph by Christine Mueller. 6 Trompe l’oeil, French for “trick of the eye”, is a technique that uses realistic imagery to create three dimensional optical illusions. Here, Robinson had the walls painted to resemble light gray wood as a play on popular reclaimed wood. This trompe l’oeil achieves the same look without the heavier, darker feel of traditional beams. Photograph by Christine Mueller. 7 “Glitz and glamour… with restraint,” is how Robinson described the home’s bar area complete with a climatecontrolled wine cellar. “There is no need to hide these rooms in the basement,” said Robinson, who often displays wine cellars in the upper levels of the homes he decorates. Photograph by Christine Mueller.

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8 “Initially, the homeowners were unsure about lacquering this room,” Robinson said of the rich, blue study. He used inspiration pictures to talk through concerns and ideas, with the end result being a dramatic yet cozy addition to the home. Coral hues used in other rooms flow into the study with the Oushak rug, making a subtle but effective connection to the rest of the home. Photograph by Christine Mueller.

9 The teester, a canopy over a bed or pulpit, is a modern take on a more traditional four-poster canopy bed and also enhances the room’s 12-foot ceiling. Photograph by Tim Furlong, Jr.

10 10 The lambrequin, trimmed with flat pewter sequins, dresses the bathroom’s oversized window. “Without being fussy, it gives the room old Hollywood glamour,” said Robinson. Photograph by Tim Furlong, Jr. Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 49

Attention to Detail By Christina Noll Photography by Walt Roycraft

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1 Located just outside Lexington in the Westmorland subdivision, the Smith’s 5600 square foot home is situated on seven acres among native trees and artisan laid limestone rock walls. The exterior of the home features copper roof and gutters, cedar and dry-laid stone and custom designed cable rails. Because the house is situated on a slope, the property was graded so that water coming down the driveway is diverted to run around the house and into South Elkhorn Creek via a unique water feature. Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 51

t first glance, the home of Nancy and Carey Smith is an idyllic retreat located in a picturesque Bluegrass setting. The 5600 square foot home is built in the arts and crafts style, with clean lines and soothing simplicity; but it’s the attention to detail that went into the home that make it truly extraordinary. The Smiths, former owners of Lexington’s Big Ass Fans, built the home in 2003 after discovering the perfect tract of land located in the Westmorland subdivision in Fayette County. “We had never built a house before,” said Nancy. A friend’s wife, who was a realtor, asked if the Smiths had ever considered moving from their house in downtown Lexington. “We said, ‘If we can find something with trees and water and fewer than 10 acres’ and she said, ‘I think I have the lot for you!’” Nancy said. Located just one mile from Keeneland, the home sits on just over seven acres of tamed natural beauty overlooking Elkhorn Creek. “The community was developed in the 70s,” explained Nancy. “Our lot was never developed…it was used as a nursery to grow trees to plant in the other lots of the neighborhood by the developer.” The result was land full of northern pine, shag bark hickories, tulip poplars and other trees, as well as thorn bushes and an abundance of poison ivy. “The yard was like a jungle,” joked Nancy. A jungle you would not recognize now after extensive landscaping.

The park-like landscape design in the front yard is by Richard Weber of Springhouse Gardens and the home features a Japanese garden in the back yard by Andrea Wilson Mueller of Inside Out Design. While building the house, the Smiths discovered a bed of limestone rock, which had to be dug out in order to pour the concrete basement. The limestone was repurposed in the front of the home to form rock walls and benches. “The neighbor calls it the mini arboretum,” Nancy said. “It’s really a great place to ramble.” Among the numerous planting areas, grass and rock walls and other rock formations, are 10-12 thousand daffodils, irises, and grape hyacinths as well as other deer-resistant bulbs, which offer an abundance of color throughout their blooming seasons. “It’s a constantly changing landscape,” said Nancy. “Every day you look out the window there’s some other color that’s there. It’s very picturesque.” Lending to the appeal is the sound of the creek in the background and the myriad wildlife on the property. The Smiths have seen everything from groundhogs and wild turkeys to fox and a blue heron. And of course, there are plenty of birds and deer. “It’s very peaceful,” said Nancy. “We do have neighbors, but in the spring and summer you’re basically secluded. In the winter, across the creek you can see the horse farms and it’s very idyllic.”

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3 2 Multiple upgrades were made to the kitchen during the home renovation, making it an ideal place to cook and gather. It features custom-designed solid cherry flat front cabinet faces with soft close doors and glass handles and pulls special ordered from Bulgaria. The countertops are Blue Australe granite and the custom backsplash is oceanside multi-color glass tile. Appliances include a Miele 5 burner gas stove top, two Thermador wall ovens, and two sub-zero refrigerator drawers. The new Kallista 45â&#x20AC;? sink features a cutting board, strainer, and silver rack. The room also includes Haiku lights and Haiku SenseMe ceiling fans in polished aluminum. 3 The open floor plan of the main floor allows for flow from kitchen to dining to living area. Above the large table are two Moooi Heracleum II chandeliers. Nearby, four Tom Dixon Melt Mini silver pendant lights provide casual elegance and function.

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4 Inside and outside the home, the Smiths tried to focus on materials that are native to Kentucky and used local artisans to complete the design. Outside, the house features cedar and dry laid stone. Inside, there is a dry laid stone fireplace and plenty of wood, including bamboo, maple and cherry. “I got my homage to the state of Kentucky by using those materials,” said Nancy. “It’s sort of Frank Lloyd Wright meets the far east. It’s my ‘new’ Kentucky home.” The newness comes from a recent extensive renovation, completed in the Spring of 2018. The list of renovations is extensive and includes in part an upgrade of all mechanicals in the home and installation of smart technology, including radiant floor heat, and a whole house automation system with new security, lighting and audio visual systems using smart device control. There was also a total re-do of the master bath, as well as upgrades to the powder room, pantry, kitchen, basement and more, along with repainting the exterior and interior and refinishing the hardwood floors.

Aside from the aesthetic appeal of the home, with 78 windows, several skylights—and of course, ceiling fans—it is also extremely energy efficient. In the winter, an efficient gas-fired boiler powers the radiant floor heating system, which heats water running through pipes running under the floors, making them toasty and the entire home warm without the forced air blowers typical of most heating systems. In the summer, a Lennox iComfort system keeps the house cool on those days when the temperature and humidity require mechanical cooling. Both systems are controllable from mobile apps. The house, which provides wonderful space for entertaining, also offers a quiet comfort that is found in the finer points of its design. For example, there are operable transoms over all bedroom and study doors, multiple custom built-ins, solid cheery moldings and trim and plaster walls on the whole first floor. “There was a lot of attention to little details that you can’t see on the surface,” said Nancy. “It really was a labor of love.”

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5 4 Simple lines and lots of light are the cornerstone of the main living room design. The dry laid fireplace has a unique, off center design and limestone hearth that balances the maple ceiling and cherry beams. Furniture in the room is Italian contemporary from voltage in Cincinnati. The room also features a Haiku SenseMe ceiling fan in polished aluminum and six operable clerestory windows. 5 The master bedroom features custom built maple and cherry trimmed cabinets and bookshelves by BC Woodworking, as well as a custom made platform bed with built in side tables and underneath storage drawers. An 84â&#x20AC;? gold Haiku fan circulates the air from the multiple windows, including four operable clerestory windows. 6 The master bath was one of the most changed areas during the renovation. It includes a freestanding tub and steam shower with full glass walls and outdoor view. Tiny details make the room even more luxurious, such as nightlights that come on inside drawers when opened.

7 The house was designed with two wings, a living wing and a sleeping/study wing. Three operable Velux skylights brighten this hallway leading to the bedrooms. There are also new haiku lights and four decorative halogen picture lights. A wall of bookshelves offers interest and storage in the space. 8 The basement, which is divided into living space and storage space and includes a separate entrance from the home, can be used as an extra bedroom/ apartment or family entertainment area. It is complete with a small kitchen, mini laundry area and full bathroom. The kitchen includes a subzero refrigerator drawer and freezer, microwave, sink and granite countertop. Multiple artistic light fixtures, two TVs and a pool table make this the perfect space for relaxing and having fun. 9 A guest room features a built-in desk with drawers and a file cabinet overlooking the picturesque yard. A built-in maple and cherry dresser with leather and metal pulls, walk-in closet with cherry shelves and Haiku white matrix composite ceiling fan complete the room.

HOUSE CREDITS Architect I Pohl Rosa Pohl

Builder I Douglas H. Farmer

Landscape Design I Richard Weber of Springhouse Gardens Japanese Garden I Andrea Wilson Mueller, Inside Out Design Custom Woodwork & Cabinetry I BC Woodworking Custom Front Cable Rails with Gate I Hensley Design Studio Back Cable Rails & Custom Stair Rail in Basement Tony Higdon, Iron Horse Forge Dry Laid Stone Fireplace I Renner & Sons Dry Laid Rock Walls I McAllister

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8 9

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 57

DISCOVERING KENTUCKY

The Kentucky Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Recent updates to this timeless memorial provide even more reasons to visit over and over again. By Christina Noll

Photos Courtesy of The Kentucky Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial

ore than 58,000 Americans died during the Vietnam conflict, and among that number were 1106 Kentuckians. Thousands more were wounded in action and hundreds are still listed as missing in action. It is one thing to read these statistics and quite another to experience their impact at the Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Frankfort.

Overlooking the state Capitol, the blue-gray granite plaza honors the 125,000 Kentuckians who served during Vietnam, and memorializes those who gave their lives. Dedicated in 1988, it remains one of the most visited sites in Frankfort, both due to its topic of reflection and its unique design. Designed by Helm Roberts, a Lexington architect and veteran, the memorial was created in the form of a large sundial, with a stainless steel gnomon (pronounced “nomen”) casting its shadow upon a granite plaza. The circle of stones around the base of the gnomon are inscribed with the verse from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: “For everything there is a season….A time for war, and a time for peace.” Originally, 1068 names of Kentuckians who died in Vietnam were engraved on the plaza; that number is now 1106. Three additional names—John Jones, Farris Richardson and Edward Bennet—were added in recent years and one more will be added later this fall. Each name is placed so that the tip of the shadow touches it on the anniversary of that soldier’s death, thus giving each fallen veteran a personal Memorial Day. The shadow also falls on a particular spot on the plaza each Veteran’s Day—the 11th day, 11th month, at the 11th hour. “It’s pretty powerful, “ said Jerry Cecil, board member and Vietnam Veteran. “And…it will memorialize them forever, as long as we have sun.” Determining the location of each name required mathematical precision involving the date of casualty, the geographic location of the memorial, the height of the gnomon and the physics of solar movement. The 327 cut stones were then designed and cut to avoid dividing any individual name. “None of them have the same dimensions or markings,” says Cecil. “None of them could be put in another place. Although it’s radial, none can be changed because it would throw off the markings and the shadows and each one has been calculated and figured for this latitude.”

Names of the fallen soldiers, along with their date of death, can be found in the registry located below the plaza. Other features of the memorial include a stone wall engraved at one end with 1962, the beginning of U.S. soldiers’ involvement in Vietnam, and with 1975 at the other end, signifying the end our involvement in the conflict, which surrounds the radial patterned granite plaza. This wall offers plenty of room for sitting, resting, and enjoying the memorial. An area at the top of the plaza, north of the winter solstice line, and beyond any names on the plaza, holds two flagpoles, and space for the honor guard to stand during ceremonies between the state, national and POW flags. The names of the men from Kentucky who are listed as MIA from Vietnam are engraved in a special place at the head of the plaza. The shadow of the gnomon will never fall on their name until they are accounted for, at which point their names are put on the correct stone in the plaza once they are confirmed. Upkeep of the Memorial is overseen by a board of directors, including Cecil, which has made it their mission to remain firm in the three purposes of the Memorial: to remember those Kentuckians who lost their lives in Vietnam; to maintain the Memorial to the standard at its dedication; and to educate future generations on the Vietnam War and the sacrifice of those engraved on the site. “This is a ‘living’ Memorial, not static,” said Cecil. To this end, the board is constantly working to keep the memorial in top shape and a worthy tribute to the fallen soldiers. Recent updates include switching the flood lights over to LED from the previous halogen, which saves cost and energy on the memorial, which is open daylight to dark. There has also been extensive power washing of the granite and sidewalks of the plaza and surrounding area. “It’s so much brighter than it was before,” said Cecil. Perhaps the most notable change has been the five benches added at the approach of the plaza which memorialize those who died later, after the war, as a result of their service in Vietnam.

58 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

Visitors are welcome at the memorial any day of the year and the site is host to many school field trips, civic groups, tour groups and even dignitaries who visit the memorial year round. The unforgettable memorial provides an opportunity to learn more about the role of Kentuckians in the Vietnam War. It also offers a peaceful space to remember our fallen heroes and reflect on their sacrifice. To learn more about the Memorial, sundials, the architect, Helm Roberts, and the Foundation, visit www.kyvietnammemorial.net.

1 2

1 Designed by Helm Roberts, a Lexington architect and veteran, the memorial was created in the form of a large sundial, with a stainless steel gnomon (pronounced “nomen”) casting its shadow upon a granite plaza. The circle of stones around the base of the gnomon are inscribed with the verse from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: “For everything there is a season….A time for war, and a time for peace.” 2 The names of the men from Kentucky who are listed as MIA from Vietnam are engraved in a special place at the head of the plaza. The shadow of the gnomon will never fall on their name until they are accounted for, at which point their names are put on the correct stone in the plaza once they are confirmed. 3 The memorial gets a makeover. 3

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • May/June 2019 • 59

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64 • May/June 2019 • Kentucky Homes & Gardens

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