KENTUCKY
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
HOMES
&
GARDENS
Celebrate with Kentucky Proud. This season treat your loved ones and guests to the quality and freshness of Kentucky Proud Products. They’ll appreciate your good taste and you’ll be supporting farm families and small businesses all across Kentucky. Give the gift of Kentucky Proud!
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Your wardrobe fits, shouldn’t your closet?
“LOVE, LOVE, LOVE THE CLOSET!” You should have a fabulous closet—a smartly planned personal space that makes every day easier. Closet Factory is the only Kentucky closet company to offer natural wood closets with custom paint or stain finishes, as well as state-of-the-art textured, metallic or laminate solutions. Plus, we put our lifetime warranty in writing.
Call 502.489.3901 or 859.277.0277 for a free consultation or visit us online at closetfactory.com Louisville Showroom: 13010 Eastgate Park Way, Ste. 107 Lexington Showroom: 246 Walton Avenue (inside WillisKlein)
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the art of organization
LY N D O N , K Y 9409 Shelbyville Road | (502) 912-6970
FergusonShowrooms.com Š2015 Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. 0716 226806
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery can help bring your personal style to life. Request an appointment today!
Kentucky Homes & Gardens November/December 2016 Volume 13 Issue 6
50 On the Cover: ‘Tis the Season Turn to page 50 to see more. PHOTO BY WALT ROYCRAFT
Contents
14 Homescapes
32
Short on Space, Big on Style
16 Antiques
Beautiful Blenko: A Mid-Century Glass Treasure
18 Landscapes
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28
Painting on Nature’s Pallette
28 Special Feature
Luxe Wine Cellars with a Modern Twist
32 Artist
Using Pastels to Capture the Essence of Place
36 A Treasure of Old Louisville 42 A Home for All Seasons 50 ‘Tis the Season 58 Discovering Kentucky
4
Finding a Landscape Architect for your next Garden Project
20 Holiday Gift Guide 23 Gardens
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The Behringer-Crawford Museum
dwellings
Visit our new showroom at
139 Breckinridge Lane — St. Matthews, KY 40207 502.896.2990 — dwellingsfurniture.com MON-FRI.10-5 — SAT.11-4 additional parking in back
furniture.accessories.art.lighting.interiordesignservices 6
Downtown Lexington Hilton 369 W. Vine Street, Lexington, KY 40507 859-254-1963
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: Kentucky Rick Phillips 859-268-0217 • 1rickphillips@windstream.net Editors: Rick Phillips, Carolyn Rasnick Senior Associate Editor: Kirsten E. Silven Photography: Walt Roycraft Contributing Writers: Bill Henkel Jerry Shrout Christina Noll Kirsten E. Silven Heather Russell-Simmons Art Direction & Design: Meghann Holmes 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. Subscription price: $24.95 for one year (six issues). Single copies: $8. 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
Just in time for the
Holidays
859.254.4412 www.lexfurniture.com 3024 Blake James Dr. Lexington, KY 40509
30 Years of Specializing in the
Extraordinary
Central Kentucky’s Leading Custom Home Builder 1501 Nicholasville Road • 859-276-1200 • padgettconstruction.com
S O M A N Y WAYS T O GI V E
GIVE THE GIFT OF
G O OD TA S T E
$100 gift card purchase, $20 for carry-out at Malone’s.*
For every receive
(Available online or in-stores) *Valid November 21 thru December 24
or Purchase a BHG gift card through givebhg.com , and 20% will be donated to your favorite charity. (Available online only)
or Select
e-gift card for instant delivery. (Available online only)
G I F T C A R D P U R C H A S E O P T I O N S A R E I N D I V I D UA L O F F E R S A N D C A N N OT B E CO M B I N E D
bluegrasshospitality.com
Things to Do Before 2017: Light up the yule log Hang the mistletoe Deck the halls with boughs of holly
Met my Deductible?
Call Lexington Diagnostic Center to schedule:
MRI CT
X-ray
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Nuclear Medicine Ultrasound
CORMAN KITCHEN & CLOSET I I
Jessica Mandt, Kitchen & Closet Design and Sales
881 Floyd Drive
Lexington, Kentucky 40505
859.233.0544
www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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2a
1a
Short on Space,
Big on Style
Room by room tips for turning small spaces into your favorite places in your home. BY CHRISTINA NOLL
Decorating your home can be challenging in any situation, but many homeowners especially struggle when it comes to small spaces. A small space doesn’t have to be a wasted space—the right decorating cannot only make the room seem larger, but also useful.
In any room: Go vertical. Paint the ceiling the same color to make the room appear taller. “White is finite and it stops your eye,” explains Gyor. “Color makes the room feel larger.” If you have angled ceilings, Gyor says you absolutely need to paint the room all one color.
“It’s important to think about small spaces in a different way,” says Andra Gyor, Interior Decorator and owner at Janice’s at the Saltbox in Lexington. “In a very small space you can maximize and do all kinds of wonderful things. You just have to utilize every inch and you have to think vertically.” She recommends thinking about what you need and working with the space to fill those needs while retaining the cozy charm a small space provides.
Another vertical tip is to take your valences or window treatments up higher than your windows to make them feel taller.
To help you tackle your small space decorating dilemmas, Gyor offers these room-by-room tips:
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Living room/Den: “When you’re dealing with a small space, some people think you need to use small rugs, but actually if you maximize the size of the rug it also makes the space feel larger,” says Gyor. She recommends having at least the front legs of all furniture on the rug, otherwise it may look like the rug is floating in the room.
Another tip is to vary the size of the furniture you place in a small room. If everything is the same size, it can tend to look too busy. Having a focal point is a good idea in any size room, but especially important in a small space. When it comes to artwork, Gyor says groupings work well in a small space. Just be sure to create a unified look with your grouping so it doesn’t look hodge-podge or busy. Indirect light is best in a small space. “In a small space it’s nice to have a small lamp or night light with low wattage to create intimacy,” says Gyor. “It’s going to be an intimate space anyway, so I would play that up.” Gyor also offers this idea, which she has previously used in her own home: “In a small den, I took the closet doors off and built in an entertainment center in the closet.”
Homescapes
1b
2b 1a & b Before photo: A narrow hallway outside the master bedroom offers a chance for homeowners to think outside the box. The bedrooms did not have enough room to put in much more than a bed, so there was a need to create an extension of the room using this space. 2a & b After photo: “We called this hallway outside the master bedroom a sitting area,” says Gyor. To maximize the space, Gyor created several uses for the room, including an area where you could have a breakfast tea, an area where you could sit and read a book, a small secretary where you could sit and correspond and a large chest for additional storage.
She recommends avoiding a lot of built-ins in a small space. “You don’t want a space to be so defined that it can’t be changed—it should be fluid,” she says. “The trend is built-ins, but sometimes a freestanding bookcase will give you the same storage and effect with more flexibility.” A breakfast nook: If you are short on space for eating in the kitchen, consider using a drop leaf table with two lounge chairs, instead of a typical table and small chairs. “On a day to day basis you can relax and use it for a place to sit and chat while someone is making dinner,” says Gyor. “Then you can always pull the chairs out if you need them somewhere else.” A small bathroom: Many times a small bathroom requires a pedestal sink and perhaps little to no storage. Gyor suggests using a small piece of furniture for storage. “I have a bathroom under the steps and it has the angled ceiling,” she says. “I found a miniature corner cabinet and added that.”
She also suggests wallpapering the entire room, from floor to ceiling to make the space appear larger. Laundry room: Many times a laundry room is very small, or even simply a closet in a hallway. Of course they make stacking washer and dryers for this purpose. If you have a laundry room with space for only two items, Gyor recommends a stacking washer and dryer to open up floor space for a folding table or a sink in the room. “One way I’ve utilized a small laundry room is to take old kitchen cabinets and hang them very high and then hang a rod from the top of the cabinet to the wall to provide some room to hang clothes,” says Gyor.
Front porches: You might not consider an extremely small front porch an extension of your home, but many tiny front porches still manage to offer livable space. Gyor offers yet another vertical solution: a baker’s rack to hold flowers and plants while also providing some privacy to the space. If you don’t want to buy a traditional baker’s rack, you can create your own graduated shelving for the same effect. Add some little café chairs and a small table and you now have a nice space. Gyor notes that they also now make outdoor Windsor chairs that are compact and comfortable.
“Rooms like that need to be fun, so that’s also where I hung all my kids artwork from elementary school—it makes me happy,” she says. “Paint the room a bright color, or use wallpaper— there are a lot of fun papers out that can jazz it up.” www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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Beautiful Blenko: A Mid-Century Glass Treasure BY JERRY SHROUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALT ROYCRAFT
Blenko, a regional manufacturer of mid-century glass, can be found in the collections of many Kentucky collectors, probably due in large part to the West Virginia location where these colorful and artistic works of glass were, and still are, produced. Following is an interview with Richard Mook, a long time Lexington collector of Blenko. Jerry Shrout (JS): You are from West Virginia and have a very personal connection to Blenko. Tell me about your childhood connection and how that influenced your collecting of Blenko. Richard Mook (RM): The Blenko Glass Company is located in Milton, West Virginia not far from where I was born in Huntington in the mid 1950’s living there through the late 1960’s. At that time, this area had a number of glass works making a variety of products from industrial and utilitarian glassware to professionally designed works of art ready to embrace the new post WWII design styles. As a child my parents thought that an education should include visits the the factories who employed people in our community. From my first visit to Blenko in about 1960, I’ve been drawn to collect Blenko glass. JS: There are several prominent designers of Blenko. Who are they and what defines them in the Blenko legacy?
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RM: Shortly after WWII, Blenko took a bold step by hiring their first professional designer, following many manufacturers that were focused on offering modern restyled products including furniture electronics and home accessories. Most of our collection focuses on the first three of these designers: Winslow Anderson (1946 - 1954), Wayne Husted (1953 - 1963) and Joel Myers (1963 - 1970) reflecting my years in Huntington. All of these designers are still regarded as major forces to the American mid-century design movement and are well represented in many collections and museums of American glass.
Antiques
3
2 JS: What forms are your favorites in Blenko? RM: Deciding on favorite forms is difficult as there are too many to mention except to say our collection contains a variety of decanters and many of the more freestyle design pieces. Some of these pieces were easily executed and others more refined. Color is also an important aspect impacting preference as in my opinion, Blenko colors are second to none.
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JS: Is there anything unique in how Blenko is made? RM: Glass blowing is an ancient art and though improvements have been made, the basic process has remained the same for over 1000 years. For Blenko, their unique colors and designs have kept them a major player in hand crafted glass with what many might call a cult following.
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JS: How would you define Blenko’s impact/legacy on mid-century glass? RM: Their impact can be reflected by their ability to hire and train the craft people capable of producing unique handmade items and continuing a legacy now approaching 100 years. Many of their original designs remain in production as new people develop an interest. I would encourage everyone to visit their factory and see the process first hand. In the meantime you can get a bigger picture by going to their website www.blenkoproject.org. There you will find a more complete history. Jerry Shrout is the proprietor of Thoroughbred Antique Gallery in Lexington. He can be reached at 859-233-9375 or througbhbredantiquegallery@gmail.com
1 Mushroom decanter, symbolic of the nuclear “mushroom cloud” by Wayne Husted. 2 A trio of decanters by Wayne Husted, ca. 1950’s 3 Examples of the work of Blenko designer Joel Myers, ca. 1960’s 4 Other examples of the work of Wayne Husted, ca. 1950’s. 5 A pair of vases by Blenko designer Wayne Husted, ca. 1951
www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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Finding a Landscape Architect for your next Garden Project BY BILL HENKEL
Taking the time to interview Landscape Architects can produce results of real value for you. The following steps might help you in choosing a landscape architect for your next project: 1. Define the project that you want to design and build. Whatever it is—a tune up for the front garden, a new patio or porch for the back garden or the creation of a small quiet space within the existing garden. Your landscape professional should require your participation in the process from beginning to end. 2. Your friends can be a solid resource for helping you choose a landscape architect, so ask friends and neighbors about their experiences with landscape professionals. Be on the lookout for landscape projects going on in your neighborhood and ask who they are working with.
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3. Go to the web and do a thorough search of landscape architects and landscape contractors in your city and state. Most landscape architects work in one of two directions: First: The design-only professional. They will create a design and cost estimate for a fee. It will be up to you to solicit bids for the construction of your project.
2 1 BEFORE: Existing patio is too small and cluttered. Lacks separation from yard and lacks distinction. 2 AFTER: Brick paving is replaced with new blue stone to contrast with the brick of the house. Square footage of paving is increased to allow for more movement and relaxation on the patio. Stone sitwall separates terrace from garden and provides for overflow seating.
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Second: The design build, landscape architect/ contractor. Their job is to create a plan, budget and construction process schedule. Furthermore, they are able to take the plan from the drawing table and begin construction of the drawing as soon as you are ready. They are able to take the plan from the drawing table, through the construction process and deliver a turnkey project. Using a design build eliminates the bid process. From your research on the web and referrals from friends, you should be able to make a list of up to 3 possible candidates that you would consider interviewing for your project. After you have made your list, telephone each and make an appointment for them to meet you and all of the other decision makers for an interview to discuss your project.
Landscapes 3 BEFORE: Overgrown planting obscures front entrance to home, and the driveway lacks connection to the front walk. 4 AFTER: New porch, steps and walk complete the entry from the street. The brick landing to the side of the driveway provides ample space for passengers to exit car, and stone steps transition smoothly to a walkway of stepping stones that leads to the front door.
Then to narrow the field more and find the right person to work with keep these in mind: • What kind of first impression did the candidate make? • Determine the depth of the candidate’s experience. • Did you feel like they heard you?
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• What projects has the candidate designed and built that is of similar scale to your project? • Ask for references. Visit some of their completed projects. At this point ,you will have done your due diligence and invested the time it takes to make the right choice and found the person you think best understands what you want to accomplish. The design phase should be fun and challenging for you as you explore and examine all of the possibilities for your new garden project. It is now time to build, step back and let the professional do the job you hired them to do. You have worked hard to produce your plans, you have qualified your installer and all contracts have been signed. Enjoy the fun and watch it grow and come up out of the ground, but stay engaged and ask questions along the way. This will broaden your knowledge of the time, materials and energy that is required to build a high quality garden. Whatever your landscape project, everyone involved should want you to be proud of your ideas and investments once the project is completed. Bill Henkel, partner @Henkel Denmark Leading Landscape American Society of Landscape Architects Healing and Therapy Garden Certified
4 www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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Holiday Gift Guide
BEREA COLLEGE CRAFTS Excellence in Design ~ Respect for Materials ~ Honor in the Work Hand-crafted works from our studios in Wood/Furniture, Ceramics, Weaving and Broom Making. For 124 years, Berea College Crafts has been the heart and soul of the student craftsman. Visit us online or call us to purchase all your gifts.
800.347.3892 www.bereacrafts.com
Daffodils Fine Stationery and Gifts, located in the heart of downtown Lexington, specializes in invitations, stationery and gifts. We can fulfill all of your Christmas, wedding and special occasion needs with our wide variety of custom gifts, cards, invitations, and much more. We pride ourselves in providing our customers with unique and high quality products, along with timely customer service to make all occasions memorable.
111 Woodland Ave, Suite 104 • Lexington, KY 40502 859.252.3436 • daffodilslexington@gmail.com
Dolfinger’s has been setting beautiful tables in Kentucky for over 150 years, and the holidays are our favorite time of year. We specialize in beautiful and unique holiday dinnerware, accessories and heirloom quality ornaments from around the world. Featured is the holiday collection by Italian artist Alessandro Taddei, Old Saint Nick, made by Vietri and inspired by the stories his mother read to him as a child.
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3937 Chenoweth Square • Louisville, KY 40207 502.895.3226
Century Entertainment & Furnishings is your one-stop shop for all home needs! Our new 35,000 square foot showroom in Louisville offers everything you need for your dream home: furniture, accessories, custom cabinetry, countertops, appliances, audio/video systems, Smart Home technology, media rooms, billiards, gaming, fabrics, drapery, hardware, mattresses, interior designers on staff—the list goes on! Check out our website to see more of what we offer!
4310 Shelbyville Road • Louisville, KY 40207 502.253.6922 • www.centuryliving.com M-F: 10am-7pm, Sat: 10am-6pm, Sun: Closed
It’s never too early to start thinking ‘home’ for the holidays—and you can get everything you need to create the perfect setting for holiday entertaining, or that perfect gift for under the tree in one stop—Digs Home and Garden in the heart of St. Matthews. If you haven’t seen our new interior collection, the holiday season is the perfect time to see our latest addition!
3905 Chenoweth Square • Louisville, KY 40207 502.893.3447 • M-Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: Noon-4pm
Leather, Inc., located in Palomar Centre in Lexington, is the place to go for all your luggage and travel needs. For 30 years, this locally owned store has specialized in luggage for the casual as well as the business traveler. We also carry a huge selection of briefcases and business items, including the largest selection of writing pens in the state of Kentucky with over 1700 to choose from. Men’s and women’s wallets and a large selection of chess sets are just some of the great gifts you will find at Leather, Inc.
3735 Palomar Centre Drive • Lexington, KY 859.273.1382 • www.shopleatherinc.com
Holiday Gift Guide
Since 1917, the Log House Craft Gallery has served as the premier showcase and home for Berea College Crafts and regional artists. From furniture to jewelry, pottery, weaving, brooms, blown glass, and Kentucky Proud food products, we carry something for you or a unique gift for someone special.
200 Estill Street • Berea, KY • 859.985.3226 M-Sat: 8am-7pm, Sun: 1pm-5pm
Antiques, Arts & Crafts, Ladies Boutiques, Home Decor, Fine Leather Goods, Old-Time Soda Fountain, Fine Art, Fine & Casual Dining, Collectibles, Men’s Clothing, Custom Framing, Primitives, Salon Services
More information can be found at www.MeetMeInMidway.com.
Bestselling Cashmere Scarves: $25 each
Voted “One of the Favorite Places to Buy a Gift”, Peggy’s is truly packed with one of a kind goodies for baby, yourself or your home. The boutique on Clay Avenue is known for its wide selection of purses, jewelry, personal accessories and everything monogrammed. Don’t miss Peggy’s signature polka dot gift wrap, which is complementary, when you visit!
112 Clay Avenue, Lexington, Kentucky 40502 859-255-3188 • www.peggysgifts.com
Sara’s Oriental Rugs, llc
WE HAVE MOVED! visit us at 3702 LEXINGTON RD LOUISVILLE, KY 40207
Sara’s Oriental Rugs, LLC: Specializing in sales & service of antique, semi-antique & new rugs.
Buy • Sale • Trade • Appraise Clean & Repair ALL RUGS
Our motto is: Integrity, Quality, and Value! NEW SHIPMENT ARRIVED!
Please visit our website at www.sarasorientalrugsky.com Mon-Sat, 9am - 5pm, Sunday by appointment 502.896.2277
Home Decor Boutique located in the heart of Middletown with Unique Holiday Decor as well as beautiful accessories, lighting, and furnishings. At Robin’s Nest Interiors, we believe your home should reflect who you are, how you live, and be filled with beautiful things you love! Design services offered by Interior Designer Robin Cole.
12123 Shelbyville Rd., Ste 105 • Louisville, KY 40243 502.509.4530 • robinsnestky.com
Since 2009 Scout Antique & Modern has been bringing a mix of eclectic antiques and 20th century modern designs to the Lexington market, and has been recognized as a favorite shop year after year. Scout is a must-visit store if you are looking for quality Mid-Century Modern furnishings, original art, traditional antiques, and unusual decor. Visit and let us help you find that perfect gift.
935 Liberty Road • Lexington, KY 40505 Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm, Sunday, noon-5pm 859.288.5200 • scoutlexington.com
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Gardens
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Painting on
2
Nature’s Palette
Dedicated to Doug Drewes and his tireless efforts to make this garden the best it can be. BY KIRSTEN E. SILVEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALT ROYCRAFT
When Dr. Elvis Donaldson and his wife Geneva purchased this historic home and its accompanying three-quarter-acre lot in the Gratz Park area of downtown Lexington more than 23 years ago from current Mayor Jim Gray, they realized very quickly that ownership of the property came with real responsibility. Originally built in 1841, the home has gone through several renovations, including major additions, and its location across from Transylvania University has made it a recognizable fixture in the community. “We really feel honored to be here, living in a true piece of history,” Geneva shared.
1 Situated just off the historic home’s back patio, this bed is a delightful blend of colors, shapes and textures. It is brimming with hostas, hardy begonias from beloved neighbor Lucy Crump, Netja Dark Amstel Begonias and native arum, seen here in seed. 2 Hostas and a 30-year-old boxwood create a lush green nook for this classically themed antique statue of “Summer,” which is part of a complete set that includes similar representations of the other four seasons.
The garden wraps all the way around the home and is divided up into a number of different “rooms,” including a public space along Mill Street, a casual perennial garden in the side yard, a formal rear garden, a hidden seating area along Third Street and a patio that serves as an extended outdoor living space. Maintained today primarily by Mrs. Donaldson, the property is home to a number of robust 30-year-old boxwoods and hostas, as well as several mature hardwoods, redbuds and evergreens. An impressive brick and wrought iron fence encircles the grounds, which feature distinct areas designed by Richard Weber of Springhouse Gardens, as well as a water feature designed by Nature’s Expressions. Still, Donaldson makes it clear that she could not have achieved all of this without the help of garden expert Doug Drewes, who helped the garden really take shape by dedicating one day a week for nearly six years to working with her on its plantings and design after he retired from Lane’s End Farm. Today, she is able to maintain and expand upon this strong base relying only on the help of her good friend and housekeeper, Mira Grabundzija, as well as Bill Buckman, who is always on call to help the family with whatever they need. “Doug was a close friend and mentor,” Geneva shared. “I learned so much from him and he did such a great job of getting the garden in shape that we’ve been able to carry on without much professional help.” www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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4 Donaldson prefers to use flowers from her own garden as much as possible for the many events held on the grounds, which is just one more way they get to share the property with others. Throughout the years, the garden has hosted award-winning garden designer Jon Carloftis, the Garden Club of Lexington, the Northside Neighborhood Association, the Gratz Park Neighborhood Association and the Little Garden Club of Woodford County. The property has participated in the Garden Conservancy’s nationwide Open Days program, and a number of wedding and graduation photos have been held on the historic grounds.
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Each year, the Donaldson’s also host a massive Fourth of July party and serve dinner in the garden for up to 150 guests. Over the years the party has become a much-anticipated event, serving as an ideal place to watch the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra, which has performed on the steps of Morrison Hall at Transylvania University, located just across Third Street from the home. Despite its underlying sense of formality, the Donaldson garden also has a special, lived-in feel that Geneva says carries through to the home’s interior (to see inside this magnificent historic home, turn to pg. 42 of this issue). Like any great garden, this carefully-planned space is still an ever-changing canvas that serves as a creative outlet for its keepers, who plan to continue their tenure for as long as time permits.
7 GARDEN CREDITS: LANDSCAPE DESIGN Richard Weber, Springhouse Gardens IRRIGATION Automatic Rain LAWN MAINTENANCE Pro-Cut Lawn & Landscaping PEST & DISEASE CONTROL Mr. Green Thumb WATER FEATURE DESIGN, INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE Nature’s Expressions RENOVATIONS Phase IV Contractors 3 Vibrant blue and pink hydrangeas in the rear perennial garden catch a few waning rays of golden sunlight filtered through the boughs of three Forest Pansy redbud trees planted near the separate four-car garage. The lush green lawn is edged with a colorful mix of annuals and perennials, including petunias, hostas, redhead coleus and Asiatic lilies, along with arborvitae and 30-year-old boxwoods. 4 This replica of a historic arch in Gratz Park is framed by a Japanese maple, white hydrangeas and a lush Daphne shrub that brings forth white, succulently-sweet blooms each Spring. The pathway leads from the driveway into a small garden room that is framed by arborvitae and includes a quiet sitting area planted with peonies, tulips and azaleas.
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5 Leading to the garage, the stepping stones are flanked here by decorative antique iron fence posts-turned-planters, nestled amid a bed of sedum, hostas and thyme. Stunning hydrangeas and mature boxwoods are also visible here, along with redhead coleus, which was selected for the continuous color it provides all summer and fall, often lasting until the first frost. 6 Situated in a quiet back corner of the garden, the Koi pond was created by Nature’s Expressions and features a bubbling brook where two antique crane statues stand endlessly on guard against the real thing, which can pose a threat to the colorful fish. This magical space also features two slender river birch, light blue forget-me-nots, several varieties of hostas and nandina bushes that produce bright red berries in December the homeowner uses in holiday arrangements. 7 This view of the perennial garden shows the animated array of blooms and greenery that flanks a flawless expanse of lawn. Plantings include Asiatic lilies, hardy geranium, redhead coleus, hostas and hydrangeas, while a row of mature arborvitae soften up the solid brick wall that surrounds this section of the historic home’s expansive grounds. 8 Classic brickwork is displayed here on both the driveway and the walkway, which was designed by Richard Weber of Springhouse Gardens and is lined with stone. Creating a welcoming feel in front of the historic residence, the entrance is flanked by striking antique planters, mature boxwoods, shady pin oaks and arborvitae. A large stone birdbath is also visible here, along with a portion of the wrought iron fence that encloses three sides of the property.
9 9 Stepping stones lead into the herb garden from a gently curving brick walkway that connects to a porch and patio area (not pictured). Situated near the back door, this space is home to a variety of herbs that are popular in the kitchen, including sage, parsley, chives and rosemary. Three potted light-blue hydrangeas, a stunning hosta, Netja Dark Amstel begonias, rhododendrons, a weeping hemlock and a coral bark maple lend a variety of heights, textures and color to the space, which also features a beautiful antique wrought iron boot scraper on the walkway; a decorative iron obelisk standing quiet sentry under the hemlock to the left; and several smaller round stones brought back from the homeowners’ honeymoon in Barbados. www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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This expansive wine cellar is part of a luxurious estate and boasts an updated Old World feel, with an arched brick ceiling, fine ironwork doors, hexagon tile floors, wood crown molding and pendant lights. Interior Design by Susan Spath Interior Design – Kern & Co.
Luxe Wine Cellars with a Modern Twist BY KIRSTEN SILVEN
Wine is a living, breathing entity that continues to evolve as it ages and today’s wine storage options have also evolved. No longer just mere “cellars,” modern wine storage spaces are now seen as a focal point in other areas of the home and often incorporate a wide range of functions.
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“A major trend has been to move the wine cellar out of the lower level or basement and into the kitchen or dining room area,” shared Brett Norris, a consultant with Wine Cellar Innovations.
3 2 Touches of glamour and femininity combine to create this luxurious and chic wine cellar, which flanks the bar in a striking design, serving as a study in the artistic form and function available in today’s wine storage options. Far from being tucked away in a deep dark cellar, this inviting space also features a comfortable conversation area. Interior by SFA Design. Photo by Meghan BierleO’Brien. 3 Featuring LED lighting that adds heatless illumination of the arched barrel ceiling, this wine cellar occupies a large space adjacent to a banquet and wine tasting room which was part of a massive basement renovation. Solid mahogany hardwood countertops wrap around the entire wine cellar, creating a large tasting space. Designed by Ed Loughran, owner of Charles River Wine Cellars.
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Regardless of its placement in the home, wine rooms have also begun to evolve past that basic “storage” function. Today, the space is often used as an entertaining area in its own right, or is at least positioned so homeowners enjoy increased accessibility to stored wine while entertaining. This makes for easy wine service during parties and it also provides the opportunity to create a new type of interactive living space. By incorporating trends like glass walls and label-forward racking systems made from metal or acrylic, homeowners can enjoy endless opportunities for expression in the design of a modern wine storage space. Norris also recommends working with a professional to include a climate controlled, dedicated refrigeration system in any wine storage space that might need to hold bottles for four years or longer. In fact, deciding whether you want to preserve the wine or just chill and temporarily store it is one of the biggest decisions to make before finalizing the design for any wine storage space.
To make this distinction, consider how often you consume and buy new stock, as well as how expensive your taste range tends to be. As a general rule, if you tend to collect high-end bottles of wine but don’t consume it regularly, a climate-controlled wine storage system is the way to go.
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“Wine, depending on a lot of factors, can be stored indefinitely in a wine preservation unit, but will not do well in a wine chiller, or wine refrigerator,” shared Stansell Dye, area showroom manager, Mid-South, for Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery. To be effective for long-term storage, the space must have proper cooling and racking. Other features to consider include specialized glass that protects against temperature changes and UV light, humidity control with dual zones for red and white wines, vibration control, locking devices, backups in the case of a power outage, wine cataloging software and temperature control to plus-or-minus 3°. For thousands of years, winemakers in far-flung places throughout Europe, Greece and Iran have sought out the naturally-mild temperatures found in caves, catacombs and other underground spaces to store wine. Although some wineries still continue this timehonored tradition, modern homeowners thankfully have the option to cool their vino using the marvels of artificial refrigeration and humidity control, making it easier than ever to create the ideal environment for wine storage with the press of a button. In turn, this flexibility has led to the expansion of wine cellars into new areas of the home, ensuring this ancient elixir’s continued place in posterity… Cheers!
5 4 This ultra sleek wine storage space takes center stage, providing easy access in the chic contemporary dining room. The see-through design also permits an open feel in the space, which boasts a posh, Hollywood vibe. Designed by Briana Tiberti. Photo by David Marquardt. 5 A bold mix of classic lines and modern touches creates a bright, usable space in this wine cellar, which features a custom rolling ladder for easy access to higher storage areas and a nice blend of lightly stained hardwood and metal racking. Architectural Designer: Bruce Lenzen. Interior Design: Ann Ludwig. Photo by Spacecrafting Photography.
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6 Built with the intent to create an Old World wine cellar with contemporary wine storage, this welcoming space incorporates mahogany storage racks, French limestone and a striking ceiling mural of a map of France. The focal point is a logo for the client’s very own vineyard, which was etched into a piece of custom granite. Designed by Ed Loughran, owner of Charles River Wine Cellars. Photo courtesy of VINIUM Architectural Wine Storage.
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7 An expansive glass wall opens this wine cellar to the home’s other interior spaces, while the sophisticated, contemporary design and polished ivory quartz flooring also adds to the interconnected feel. Repurposed casks serve as extra storage and impromptu tabletops, while plenty of racking provides space for a true wine connoisseur to collect a wide variety of vintages. Interior Design by Ferrugio Design + Associates. 8 Mahogany racking, a walnut center tasting table and dazzling floors of African Iroko wood with inset squares of polished Absolute Black granite tile work to create a luxe feel in this stunning wine cellar, which holds 1,500 bottles and also features a light fixture by Vermont’s Hubbardton Forge. Designed by Janet Scagel Design.
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10 9 With striking Gothic-style arches, a modern organic feel and brightly illuminated clear acrylic storage racking to lend a light airy touch, this 350-square-foot, 2,000-bottle wine cellar features tile flooring, walnut trim and wooden wall storage that works to warm up and ground the ethereal space. Designed by Jamie Beckwith, Beckwith Interiors; Photo by Kim Sargent. 10 Offering a unique contrast between bottle and racking, this wine cellar design accents the shapes, colors and labels of each bottle, featuring LED lighting accents in the stone backdrop, as well as rustic tile accent walls. Designed by Ed Loughran, owner of Charles River Wine Cellars. Photo courtesy of VINIUM Architectural Wine Storage. www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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Using Pastels to Capture the Essence of Place BY HEATHER N RUSSELL-SIMMONS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANNE KINDL
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Anne Kindl wants to encourage people to let go and acknowledge their inner voice using art as a vehicle. Despite a career in corporate design that transitioned to fine art, Kindl needed to overcome her own self imposed doubts that were restricting her creative process. To do that, she created 365 Meditations, a project where she tasked herself and others to create something everyday for one year. “The intent was to learn what was revealed through discovery and acceptance,” she said. “It was very difficult at first. Not so much the creating everyday, but the act of putting the work out there, saying, ‘This is who I am. This is part of me.’”
Growing up, Kindl always had a pad of paper, crayons or magic markers in hand. “I experimented with many mediums throughout my career,” said Kindl, who connected with pastels about 12 years ago. “Discovering pastels as an adult reminded me how much I missed drawing. There’s just an innate quality about directly creating by hand to paper that’s very special.” Pastels, made of pure pigment with a little binder, can be used as both a drawing and painting medium. “The vibrant color remains true and never cracks or fades,” said Kindl, who noted that the colors Edgar Degas chose for his pastel work in the late 1800s are the same colors art admirers see today.
“I’m a believer that every person has their own uniqueness, but we are held back by limiting beliefs,” said Kindl. “It sounds simple, but it’s surprising how many individuals have preconceived expectations and freeze when approaching a blank canvas. I remind students—it’s just paper!”
Kindl’s studio is located at ArtsPlace in Lexington, Ky. “LexArts opened the lower level to artists a few years ago,” she said. “I’m thankful for the space to create in and the wonderful creative souls there.”
1 Dreamscape No. 1 Pastel , 6” x 10”, Private Purchase Dreamscape No.1 is the first of 100 in this series in progress. “I’ve paced myself with this series because it has lead to other engaging projects,” said Kindl, who may have three or four pieces going at a time. “I was excited to learn one of pieces was selected by the Lexington Art League for their holiday donor card. “I may spend an hour or a day or a month on something.” Kindl believes that art is a process, that there is no such thing as a perfect painting. “At some point, you have to make peace with it and say, ‘I’m done.’”
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2 Anne Kindl. Photo Credit: John Buckman and Creative Lexington 3 Alley Lights Pastel, 16” x 20”, Available through Anne Kindl Studio “My husband left Hungary in 1988 when it was still a communist country,” said Kindl. “Now part of the European Union, we have been back to visit several times. This piece was inspired by one of our trips to Eastern Europe. There are many hidden streets that a tourist may not notice, or be aware of,” she said. “Streets that lead to unexpected places like an underground gallery with incredible artworks.” Fortunately for Kindl, her husband’s family is able to guide her to these unexpected places. “That was inspiration, that light of discovering something new.” 4 Shaker Garden Pastel, 10” x 10” In her classes, Kindl teaches the importance of palette choice. “In a situation like this,” she said. “Where a fellow artist and I went to Shaker Village for the day, everything was in bloom everything was green. So I ask, ‘How can I make this interesting?’ There a million colors, you’re not confined to what you see in front of you.” For Shaker Garden, Kindl wanted to convey the sense of peace she felt. “Blue is grounding, it makes you feel settled,” she said. Wanting to also capture a bright and sunny day, she chose a palette with vibrant blues.
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2 For subject matter, Kindl has to start with a connection. “I pause to visually capture the essence of a place and quickly delve into the colors and marks that capture the atmosphere and mood of my surroundings.” She then sketches the scene in both grayscale and color, using muscle memory to transfer to the final canvas. “Most often I use a pastel and isopropyl wash on a sanded surface and lightly build layers of pastel, first blocking in color and ending with finish marks to complete the piece.” This year alone, Kindl’s award-winning (Lexington Art League Best Drawing/Pastels in 2014 and 2016; Lexington Art League Best in Kentucky Award winner in 2015) completed pieces have been found in seven shows in three states, six gallery hops and one exhibit. She can also be found at www.annekindl.com and on both Facebook and Instagram at Anne Kindl Studio.
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5 Vintage Mix Pastel, 11” x 14”, Available through Anne Kindl Studio Like Red Door Couture, this piece was inspired by a trip to Martha’s Vineyard. “This was a place where a lot of care was given to the items inside,” said Kindl. “There were things from the 50s and 60s that you’d recognize from your grandmother’s home, but it wasn’t sad and it didn’t have that antique-feel. It was very happy, and great care had been given to preserve everything.” 6 Persimmon Ridge Pastel, 22” x 22” A companion piece to Lemon Grass, Persimmon Ridge continues the exploration of distant tree lines and open spaces. 7 Lemon Grass Pastel, 22” x 22” One of her most popular pieces this year, Kindl had prints made of Lemon Grass. “There’s no deep meaning to this,” laughs Kindl. “It’s just about playing off bold, vibrant colors using distant tree lines and observing the changing colors in fields of goldenrod, tobacco and wheat grasses.”
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8 Keeneland Spring Parade Pastel, 12” x 12” As a band parent, her daughter is in the Paul Laurence Dunbar High School Marching Band, Kindl is no stranger to fundraising. “I had worked out at Keeneland’s Spring Meet for two days as a fundraiser for the band,” said Kindl. “And I was exhausted, but I had to stop and snap a photo of the clubhouse with the trees blooming before I drove off.” Once home looking over photos, Kindl was again taken by the beauty of this scene. “This work painted itself,” she said. “I finished it very quickly. It’s more realistic than other work, but the brush strokes are still very abstract and energetic.” 9 Red Door Couture Pastel, 11” x 14” Available through Anne Kindl Studio After a trip to Martha’s Vineyard, Kindl wanted to pay tribute to the many shops and restaurants that focus on unique, vintage and hand made crafts. “As an artist, those things seem lost in society,” she said. “I understand the necessity of convenience, but I also value the artists and owners who honor these kinds of makerspaces.”
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Unlike many red brick Victorian style homes in Old Louisville, the Nunery home, originally owned by Col. Charles Christopher Mengel, is a taupe colored brick. Large, oversized French doors are the center profile for the front porch. The porch is surrounded by eight Ionic columns.
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BY HEATHER N RUSSELL-SIMMONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALT ROYCRAFT
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athieu Nunery and her husband, Dr. William Nunery, discovered a love for restoring historic homes when they moved to Louisville, Ky. ten years ago. “We found a home on Second Street that had been broken up into three apartments, one on each floor,” said Nunery. “We went through an extensive remodel to restore that home, and in doing so, realized how much we love the treasure of Old Louisville.” The Nunery’s now live in a threestory home with over 11,000 square feet that originally belonged to Col. Charles Christopher Mengel. In the late 1880s, the Mengel Company was a prosperous Louisville company that made, among other things, tobacco boxes, fine furniture and whiskey. “Back then,” said Nunery, “Louisville was a bustling river city and Col. Mengel was a captain of industry. He owned ships and traveled the world, bringing back a variety of woods that his craftsmen used throughout the home.” One of those woods was the Brazilian mahogany on display in the library in the bookcases, door casing and the coffered wood ceiling. www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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That intricate woodwork is what attracted the Nunery’s to the home. “The attention to detail in the woodwork is this home’s distinguishing feature,” she said. “The floor of each room has a unique border pattern. The oak floor boards are each 10 feet long, not patched together as is customary today.” Another interesting feature of the home is that the footprint of each floor is identical. “We love the tall ceilings. The first floor ceilings are about 13 feet high,” said Nunery. “Then 12 and a half on the second floor and 12 on the third.” Despite the height and size of the home, “It never feels as though you’re swimming in the space,” said Nunery. She attributes the coziness to the warmth of the woodwork and the layout of a home built when rooms were heated by coal and designed to be closed off. Each of the home’s 14 fireplaces has a unique firebox and mantel, all intact and original. “A few of the fireplaces have been modified to support gas.”
2 2 Looking toward the front doors of the home, the 33’ foyer showcases a Greek key pattern unique to this room. To the left of the foyer is the library, originally known as the men’s parlor. To the right is the ladies parlor. Each room has pocket doors on tracks, allowing each room to be closed off and sufficiently heated by the coal-burning fireplaces. The first floor of the home has 13’ ceilings. 3 “The furniture in this room is an eclectic mix and match,” explained Nunery. The cabinet in the right corner and the easel in the left belonged to her in-laws. “The table seats 10 easily, 12 comfortably and 14 in a pinch,” she said. The sideboard on the left was found at a salvage yard in Indianapolis. The wine rack on the far right came from a store in New Orleans. “We were attending a conference right after Hurricane Katrina,” said Nunery, “And found a store in the French Quarter that had been open for 100 years and that is where we got the wine rack.” As for the many rugs throughout the home, “We bought all 13 of them at Architectural Salvage following an estate sale, thinking we could use them somehow, somewhere,” said Nunery. “They fit everywhere in the house, perfectly!” The coffered wood ceiling has plaster between the wood panels. Nunery found the crystal chandelier at Colonial Antiques in Indianapolis. The fireplace is a light gold-colored ceramic tile. The two sconces that flank the fireplace are the only light fixtures original to the house. “They have a key to turn on gas, electric or both,” said Nunery. “That was an engineering marvel at the time.”
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When the Nunery’s bought the house in 2011, there was a bathroom under the stairway and a rudimentary kitchen. The backside of the house was in distress and plaster was hanging off the walls. “We salvaged what we could,” said Nunery. Before moving into the home in January of 2015, the couple spent two years on renovations, replacing the boiler furnace and radiator heating, adding ductwork and forced air heating and air conditioning; new electrical systems, plumbing; foam insulation, and a state of the art alarm and sound system. When it came time to design the kitchen, the Nunery’s looked no further than their previous home. “We replicated this kitchen after the one in our Second Street home,” she said. Everything from the appliances to the custom cabinetry came from Lowe’s Home Improvement on Bashford Manor. “We know people in all the departments by name, and they know us!” said Nunery. “When we designed this kitchen, we did it all with Lowe’s. The cabinetry design is exquisite.” Paul Parker, with Primera Services, was also instrumental in the home restorations. “He was wonderful to work with,” said Nunery. The couple’s hard work was on display during the 39th Annual Old Louisville Holiday Home Tour. The event, benefitting the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, takes place each year in early December. “We were part of the tour last year,” said Nunery. “Over 1,200 people from all over the U.S. came through our home that weekend.” To help decorate for the event, Nunlery had the help of her twin sister, an older sister and two friends. “We got about 90% of it done in one weekend,” she said. “It was pretty much, ‘Here’s a box of decorations. Now, you take this room, you take that mantel, you’re on the third floor!’”
3 Nutcrackers and nativity scenes are popular Christmas decorations in the home. “My husband’s father was a Methodist minister in Kentucky and Indiana,” explains Nunery. As for the nutcrackers, “We had about 80 on display last year, some borrowed from my good friend and neighbor.” Nunery’s favorite nutcracker was a gift from her friend for their first Christmas in Old Louisville. “It was my first nutcracker, and it portrayed a craftsman holding his hammer and wearing a tool belt,” said Nunery. “Perfect for us!” Outside of the holiday season, Nunery describes the home décor as traditional. “We love antiques, especially items from the late 1800’s.” Joe Ley Antiques and Architectural Salvage in Louisville and Colonial Antiques in Indianapolis, Ind. are favorite places for finding items to add to the house. Despite her experience with home restorations and renovations, Nunery says only one thing makes a house a home for her. “My home is wherever my husband is. When we’re together, I’m home.”
4 4 “When we bought the house, this room was a gym and completely bare- right down to the brick wall,” said Nunery. “There was no insulation, however, the walls are three layers of brick.” The custom cabinets, from Lowes Home Improvement, were designed on how the home owners wanted the room to flow. The cabinets are a cream color with a Biscotti glaze for a rustic look. The room is a replica of the kitchen in a previous home. The maple butcher block counter top came from Lumber Liquidators. “We found the double doorway at Architectural Salvage,” said Nunery. “It opens to a sitting area where we watch TV.” Dr. Nunery designed the double window above the deep-set, single basin, porcelain farm sink. The two rafters are not structural, “They are aesthetic, used to disguise the newly installed ductwork and pipes,” said Nunery.
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6 5 This entry is located at the end of the front foyer and leads to the grand staircase with an intricately carved mahogany newel post. The stairs are about 5’ wide. Detailed, mahogany wood dominates the right side of the room and surrounds the turquoise ceramic tile fireplace. The rose-carved topped chairs belonged to Nunery’s mother. “Those chairs are very special to me.” The rocking chair was a gift from a friend. The picture to the right of the staircase, a couple ballroom dancing, has sentimental meaning for the Nunery’s. “That was a wedding gift from my husband, it depicts how we met,” said Nunery. “We
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7 were taking ball room dance lessons at two separate studios in Indianapolis. Our instructors conspired for us to meet. And we married two years later.” Now a powder room with a Tiffany art glass window, the area under the stairs would have originally been a closet used to store large luggage pieces. 6 Tiffany art glass, named for Louis Comfort Tiffany who perfected the art of using copper foil to join pieces of colorful glass, is on display in this seating area of red velvet cushions. The seating area faces north and includes a brass chandelier.
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10 7 Every piece of the grand staircase- the stairs, the posts, the railing, the panels- is made of American mahogany. This view looks down from the second floor of the home to the first. The garland includes white lights with fruits and berries for color, ribbon is woven through the spindles of the stair rail. This staircase leads directly to an art glass seating area at the front of the house.
green marble fireplace is topped with an ornately carved vase and floral design in the mahogany wood. The grandfather clock was purchased at the same French Quarter store as the dining room wine rack. A brass chandelier hangs from the tray ceiling, another trick of the Nunery’s design. “Like the rafters in the kitchen, the tray ceiling here camouflages duct work that was added for the heating system.”
8 Located in a third floor bedroom, this is one of 14 fireplaces in the home. A nativity scene rests in front of a mirror on top of the decorative mahogany mantel. The fireplace is surrounded by white ceramic tile and accented with a metal screen.
10 Formerly known as the men’s parlor, Brazilian mahogany is the highlight of this room. The Mengel family crest is crafted from Brazilian mahogany above the half-inch mosaic tile fireplace. The same wood extends to the bookcases, paneling and door casings. The coffered wood ceiling is made of burled mahogany. “My husband added the art glass window as a design feature,” said Nunery. “This is his favorite room.” To the right, the large window overlooks the front porch. The dining room is to the left.
9 This sitting room is located outside the master bedroom and offers a glimpse of the back stairway that runs parallel to the grand stairway. The windows here look over the north side of the home. The sage
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Geneva and Elvis Donaldson’s history Gratz Park home is perfect for entertaining during the holidays and beyond. BY CHRISTINA NOLL PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALT ROYCRAFT
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1added The original home, a townhouse that faced Gratz Park, was built in 1841. In 1898 the front portico was and the main entrance moved to face Third Street. Although the house has had numerous owners and various remodeling, the 6900 square foot home has not been enlarged in any way since the 1898 renovation with the exception of enclosing some exterior porches on the back.
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In these rooms and throughout the first floor, the oak floors are original to the 1898 renovation. The couple has collected the various oriental rugs over time. In the summer, Donaldson changes the rugs in the two parlors to lighter ones that give the space a cleaner, more summer-like feel. “Our house is very seasonal,” says Donaldson. The parlors are rooms used more in the wintertime, while during summertime, the couple sits mostly on the side porch, which looks out on the garden.
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efore you even step foot into Geneva and Elvis Donaldson’s home, located on West Third Street in downtown Lexington, you feel welcome. That’s ironic, given that the home is historically known as ‘the house that turned it’s back on Gratz Park.” Situated on the corner of West Third Street and North Mill Street, the house gained that title in 1898, after the owner at the time moved the main entrance during a major renovation. “Her daughter was going to have a coming out (party), so she decided to remodel the house,” explains Geneva Donaldson. “She added the portico and literally turned the house around to face Third Street.” Today, the home continues in the tradition of entertaining guests on a regular basis. “The home has a very nice flow for events,” says Donaldson. Over the years, the Donaldson’s have hosted numerous events, including concerts in the front hall, dinner parties, meetings and more. “It’s nice to be able to come in the front door and spread out,” Donaldson says. “It’s a great attribute of the house.” Just off the large foyer to the left are connecting parlors that have been part of the entertainment aspect of the home for over a century. “There were originally folding doors between those two rooms, so that following dinner the ladies sat in the first parlor and had tea and the gentlemen went to the second parlor and had drinks and cigars,” explains Donaldson. The family still calls the rooms the “first parlor” and “second parlor,” although they now use them as a living room and less formal sitting room, respectively.
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One season that is festively celebrated in the historic home is Christmas. Donaldson does all the decorating for the season herself, with the help of Alex Redgefield, an interior designer who specializes in Christmas decorating. Donaldson likes for the decorations to look different from year to year, so the focus changes. However, Redgefield creates the finished look using mostly what is already on hand. “I have quite a collection over 20 years,” says Donaldson. “There are actually things we don’t use every year and we rotate.” For example, one year the decorations might showcase poinsettias, and another year magnolias. There is typically a 12-foot tree behind the piano, just in front of the leaded glass doors that lead out to the garden. A slightly smaller tree is placed in the second parlor for the family to enjoy while relaxing in that room and is often filled to the brim with retro ornaments. “When my son was living at home we also had a tree in the upstairs sitting area and it contained more childlike ornaments,” says Donaldson. “I still do that when he comes home.” Whether it’s Christmastime or anytime, the home is both comfortable and livable, despite being around since before the Civil War. “It’s an honor and privilege to be part of the history of a place like this,” says Donaldson. “We try to be good caretakers and we love living downtown — it gets better all the time.”
3 2 A welcoming spirit begins at the front porch where holiday decorations are kept natural with evergreen trees and roping around the door. An antique sleigh adds to the festive spirit and was actually found in a barn on Donaldson’s father’s property in Woodford County. 3 Since they purchased the home in 1993, the Donaldson’s have made the house their own. One example is in the foyer where they changed the previously bright pink walls to a toned down color closer to salmon. The large space is used frequently for public events, including concerts, group yoga and even choir practice for the Donaldson’s church. 4 The piano, located in the foyer, is not just for show. “I play some,” says Donaldson. Beside the piano is a Chinese wedding chest that would have been used to carry the dowry of a Chinese bride. Just behind the Christmas tree, leaded glass doors lead out to the formal garden.
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5 The first parlor, used as a living room by the Donaldson’s, is a bit more formal than the second parlor. The turquoise wall color was achieved using wallpaper. The Knoll sofa (seen from behind in this photo) is a great place for napping or curling up to read a good book. Incidentally, in the television drama Downton Abbey, there is a red sofa just like it in the library. 6 Donaldson and husband, Elvis, are avid readers, as showcased by the expansive collection in the library. In the wintertime, the couple spends time reading or watching television in front of the fire. A book themed coffee table is both functional and fun in this room. 7 Donaldson calls this a “sit in front of the fire kind of room,” because that’s exactly what the homeowners do in the wintertime. The furniture in this room came from the sunroom in the Donaldson’s previous home and is very comfortable and family friendly. A warm oriental rug and plenty of colorful art make the room a favorite spot for reading and gathering. The yellow walls are faux painted with clear lacquered finishes. 8 The fireplace mantel in the second parlor (pictured), and in the first parlor, is a matching set and was part of the 1898 original home. All the mantels had been painted white, but were taken down to their original wood by previous owner and current Lexington Mayor, Jim Gray.
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9 9 “Our house is a mixture of contemporary, antique and family pieces,” says Donaldson. In the dining room, the Donaldson’s purchased every piece specifically for this house, with the exception of the empire style sideboard, which belonged to Elvis Donaldson’s mother. The fireplace was hand carved by a Belgian cabinetmaker who immigrated to the United States when he was 14 years old. The dining room still retains its original folding doors, which can be closed for privacy when events are being held in the foyer. 10 Black ceramic tile floors in the kitchen are thought to be nearly 50 years old. A previous owner who had seven children and a full time cook installed the commercial grade appliances, including a Traulson refrigerator/freezer, two dishwashers and restaurant grade stove. The Donaldson’s installed the island, which features a Carrera marble top that matches closely to the other kitchen countertops which are made from the original floor of the old Phoenix hotel in downtown Lexington. 11 Donaldson credits Edward Gage, interior designer, with suggesting all the paint colors in the home including the bright green that makes this room stand out. Originally the butler’s pantry in the home, it is now used as a breakfast room and there is an icemaker, wine cooler bar service set up, as well. The floors tell a story all of their own: Originally a black and white tile, they were ruined during the aftermath of the 2002 ice storm when an upstairs hot water furnace leaked. The tiles were removed to reveal a wood floor, which Donaldson had stained brown and then painted with the black squares to give a similar look to the old tile floors.
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‘Tis Season! the
BY KIRSTEN E. SILVEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALT ROYCRAFT
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Understated holiday décor lends a warm, inviting feel to this home’s stately façade. Its symmetry is mimicked in the placement of the evergreen wreaths, topiaries, garland and bows, while boxwoods and a variety of other carefullyselected plantings provide color and texture throughout the winter months.
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ach year for the holidays this elegant Highlands-area home receives a special makeover by Shane Pearson, co-owner of Dwellings in Louisville. For more than a decade, Pearson has worked with the homeowner to update the historic residence through several renovation projects, and he also oversees the seasonal holiday décor, creating a festive feel that blends seamlessly with the home’s classic Georgian-style architecture and traditional design. “Like any great home, it’s an ever-evolving project,” shared Pearson. “Our goal has always been to create a formal yet comfortable feel, because the family lives in and actually uses all of the rooms.”
2 The home’s impressive entryway provides protection from the elements and is framed here by lush garland, real pinecones, red holly berries, twinkling lights and classic holiday ornaments. The home’s original light fixture and a plaque noting its place on the National Register of Historic Places, can be seen here, while a wreath with an oversized red-and-gold bow completes the seasonal décor.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the residence is a living piece of history that has always been well-preserved by its owners through the years. Symmetry and balance are evident throughout the design—both inside and out—with a touch of whimsy showing through here and there. “We found the highly detailed original plaster ceiling under layers of paint in the formal living room, which is really incredible,” Pearson said. “It’s hand painted, with intricate gold leaf accents, and took more than a year and a half to complete.”
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Dual two story, wraparound covered porches, which flank each side of the home and are visible in our photo of the façade, are perhaps its other most remarkable feature. This design allows a covered porch to open from each bedroom and the dining room, creating an easy indoor-outdoor flow that evokes the feel of a grand old Southern plantation home. “For the holidays, we like to keep things traditional and pick up the red and gold hues that can already be found in the home’s rich color palette,” Pearson shared. “The result is a festive yet tasteful appearance that definitely stands out but is never overwhelming.” As the holidays settle upon us, the homeowner is once again ready to share this stately residence with close friends and family, lending a special kind of warmth to the coldest season before ushering in another New Year.
3 During the holidays, this grand staircase in the home’s entryway provides an ideal place to showcase a red and white grouping of poinsettias, topped by elegant garland and festive red bows. The foyer is open to all three stories and the staircase leads to a former grand ballroom on the top floor (not pictured) that now functions as a great room. 4 The formal entryway opens from a smaller vestibule seen here through the original mahogany and glass door topped here by a Palladian transom window. The space was designed to prevent blasts of cold air from penetrating the home’s interior spaces when the front door is opened. The holiday arrangement of multi-hued poinsettias creates a striking focal point on the round center table, while the original wainscoting, crown molding and gleaming hardwood floors demonstrate the home’s exquisite craftsmanship.
www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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5 5 Sophisticated, classic pieces in the formal dining room work to create a polished, sumptuous feel that is characterized by elaborate original wainscoting and a built-in cabinet with ornate leaded-glass doors. Amazingly, the dining room table is also original to the home and was procured by antiquarian Steve Tipton. Garland atop the buffet and wreaths on two sets of doors leading out to one of the home’s covered porches work with a holiday-themed centerpiece, lending seasonal flair to the space, which also features an elaborate reproduction chandelier and custom window treatments to complete the look.
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6 6 A completely updated kitchen, hearth room and breakfast area gets plenty of natural light through the wide arched windows, while a Carrera marble backsplash provides nice contrast to the cherry-hued custom cabinetry, which also boasts a sueded black granite top on the center island. A candy-hued Christmas tree and complementary wreath work with cheerful garland on the mantle, carefully-placed seasonal accessories and a festive centerpiece to bring the holiday theme front and center in this warm, inviting space.
HOUSE CREDITS: INTERIOR DESIGN/CHRISTMAS DÉCOR & FURNISHINGS Shane Pearson, Dwellings ANTIQUES Steve Tipton HAND-CRAFTED AREA RUGS Anabel’s Oriental Rugs
www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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7 Boasting a more masculine feel with its deep, bold tones, Ralph Lauren fabrics and richly-hued woodworking, the home’s study provides a cozy place to warm up by the fire with a favorite book on a cold winter day. The gas fireplace has a striking marble surround, while garland atop the mantle adds a subtle seasonal touch to the room’s timeless décor. 8 This view of the magnificent formal living room shows the intricate hand painted and gold leaf design on the ceiling; a feature that was original to the home and brought back to life by the current owner during the home’s extensive renovation; a process that took more than a year and a half to complete. The ornate antique secretary is topped here with festive garland and serves as a splendid focal point, while the sumptuous Christmas tree is dripping with gold and jewel-toned ornaments and garland also adorns the wall sconces.
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9 A view of the home’s formal living room shows the classic hearth draped with holiday garland in a space that is flooded with natural light year-round, providing an ideal conversation area for visiting with friends and family.
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9 www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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1
The Behringer-Crawford Museum This non-traditional museum puts the history and culture of Nothern Kentucky in motion. BY CHRISTINA NOLL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE BEHRINGER-CRAWFORD MUSEUM
Located in the middle of 700-acre Devou Park in Covington, the Behringer-Crawford Museum is the only museum in the area to offer a comprehensive history of Northern Kentucky. The museum, however, is anything but traditional. “The museum is focused on local history, but it goes beyond that traditional definition of history,” says Laurie Risch, Executive Director at the Behringer-Crawford Museum. “We offer a lot of cultural history, pre-history, art and natural history. We combine all of those to be able to have a full round representation of the story of this region.” The museum started in 1950 through a donation from William Behringer, who had formed a large collection of items based on his interest in natural history and early Native Americans. The original museum was located in the 8-room house donated by the Devou family to the city of Covington in 1910, along with the land that makes up the park. “They had actually asked for their home to become a library or art museum, with the idea that the land and house would benefit all the residents of the greater Cincinnati region,” said Risch.
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The William Behringer Memorial Museum became the Behringer-Crawford Museum when its first curator, Ellis Crawford retired in 1970. Crawford shared a similar interest in natural history but was also an archaeologist and developed a strong interest in the cultural heritage of the region. In addition to Behringer’s collection, and the items added by Crawford, the museum now holds art and cultural artifacts from around the region. “Some of our famous oddities are still here—the shrunken head, the hairball and the cow’s stomach,” says Risch. “We have third and fourth generation kids coming to see these things.” However the museum offers so much more than that. “Every region has some story to tell, says Risch. “We’ve chosen to combine every way possible to be able to share a story in one place. We’re capturing the stories and we’re capturing the representative artifacts for the region and we feel it is our responsibility to protect the stories and also put them in context with today’s events.” Those who live in northern Kentucky may be surprised to find out things they didn’t know about where they live.
Discovering Kentucky IF YOU GO:
2 1 The Behringer-Crawford Museum is housed in Covington’s historic Devou Park.
The Behringer-Crawford Museum is located at 1600 Montague Rd. in Covington’s historic 19th century Devou family home. The museum is open Tuesday—Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm. For admission rates and other information, please visit www.bcmuseum.org or call 859.491.4003.
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2 Visitors can get a small taste of what it was like to visit the drive-in movies in this shiny red convertible. 3 The interactive train display in the front lobby is one of the favorite attractions at the museum.
Visitors can introduce themselves to what the region is all about and then go out and explore on their own. “There’s really something for everyone here,” says Risch. In the 1990s, a community campaign helped raise funds to add on to the museum, bringing the total space to more than 20 thousand square feet. Within that space, exhibits are arranged based on a transportation theme titled: Rivers, Rails and Roadways. “But we are not a transportation museum,” stresses Risch. “We are a museum of local stories—from people to items, and it all gears back to the people who lived in this area.” The museum features interactive displays that interpret the stories of people, commerce and economic development along each theme and across history. There are also three major collections from individual artists and multitudes of other art pieces to view, from the mid-1800s up to present time. There are also a variety of events, including educational programming and resources for local schools that provide hands on, interactive learning experiences. Community outreach programs, open to anyone, include the Brown Bag
Lunch series for adults, the Tots Tuesdays for preschoolers and a six-lecture series in collaboration with Northern Kentucky University. New this year is the art workshop series, where adults can create art from mementos saved from their own personal family history. The museum’s signature events include weekly summer concerts featuring different genres of music connected to Kentucky music heritage, the Fresh Art live auction event in conjunction with local artists and the holiday interactive toy train each holiday season. Also new this year is an outdoor nature play area where children can run and explore. Among other things, it features a fossil dig area, sand area, replica cabin and a flat boat where children can pretend to float along the river. “We’re not static and we don’t keep everything in the past—our goal is to be able to take the history and put it into a good context for today,” says Risch. “What I have found is that if you would take a moment and read the words on the panel, and look at the items, how much you can learn is incredible.” www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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SHOPPING & SERVICES
Accessories • Antique Furniture • Paintings Lampe Berger Dealer
712 Henry Clay Blvd, Lexington, KY (859)259-4056 • beehivelexington@aol.com www.thebeehivesantiques.com
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REAL ESTATE
Susie Rodes Associate Broker ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES
859-619-8730
47 Ave of Champions, Nicholasville
Resort Living! Elegant drive, fountain, Irish laid stone walls, graceful waterfall on private 12 acre lot! Stunning Foyer, Formal Dining, Music/Library, Gourmet Kitchen, Informal Dining, Family Room, Study, Grand Master Suite with Spa Bath, Wine Room, & Home Theater. Excellent outdoor areas, Pool house, hot tub area & outdoor kitchen! State of the art Smart house!
$2,795,000
1613 Harmony Hall Lane
Exceptional home located in the heart of Lexington! First level Master Suite, two-story Family Room open to the recently updated Kitchen, second level Family/Recreation Room, walk-out Basement with fireplace and full bath! You will love the covered porch overlooking large lawn.
$1,349,000
3501 Trinidad Court
3812 Real Quiet Lane
$1,298,000
$998,000
3209 Hobcaw Lane
891 Boyers Chapel Rd, Sadieville
$779,000
$649,000
Spacious rooms, tall ceilings & natural light! Beautiful Mansion in Greenbrier Estates on 1.4 acres! Master Suite with 2 fireplaces, sitting Handsome Library, Dining Rm with Fireplace, Chef ’s Kitchen & 1st floor Master Suite. area & luxurious bath with whirlpool tub.
Versatile Recreation Building on 1 acre with Spacious open plan, finished walk out bsmt., 7,138 sq ft home! Huge Great Room, Spacious 6 BR. Great Kitchen. 34 acres, Barn, Indoor Formal Rooms & Fabulous Master Suite! Arena, Paddocks, Plank fences & 5-car garage.
112 Ashley Woods Road
10 acres with 10 more available, just off Richmond Road! Main level huge Master plus 2 additional 1st floor Bedrooms. Great Kitchen, formal Dining Room with fireplace, cozy Den with true wainscotting. Excellent sun room, covered porches, pool and excellent guest house!
$1,245,000
4876 Waterside Drive
Elegant home with beautiful lake views. Gourmet Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Theater Room, Five Spacious bedrooms, and Master.
$985,000
5142 Whites Lane
10 acres of beautiful views in the heart of the Bluegrass! 4-plank fences, paddock, water & electric in the barn, two stalls & tack room.
#1 Consistently TOP Producer a Topfor 3 Sales 2015,Producer! 2011 & 2010!
$329,900
2109 Shelton Road
Exquisite home priced $56K below appraisal! Spacious Kitchen with granite. 1st floor Master Suite with updated Master Bath.
$779,000
3468 Red Coach Trail
Great end unit townhome with covered parking! Great natural light, lots of storage, private Patio & Living Room fireplace.
$114,900
homesinlex.com
Your Trusted Mortgage Lender Chase Holman • Loan Officer • NMLS# 1060919
181 W. Lowry Ln., Ste. 150 • Lexington, KY 40503 Direct: 859-475-1323 • Phone: 859-221-6329 • chase.holman@fairwaymc.com Copyright©2016 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. All rights reserved.
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REAL ESTATE
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REAL ESTATE
#1 Top Producer for 17 years!
Laura Eaves (859) 797-5822
Suzanne Elliott (859) 806-6234
website: www.suzanneelliott.com email: selliott@demovellan.com
2048 Bridgeport Drive
$1,250,000
Amazing Urban-County Secret! Extremely charming Home on .56 acre lot & backs to Lake. Unique tree fort, secret lakeside garden, gazebo, Trex dock & a boat for delightful Sunset Cruises on the Lake!
4865 Tates Creek Road $2,850,000
Resort style home! One of a kind home on almost 10 acres. Full size indoor pool, hot tub w/ fountain, and sauna.
215 N Mill Street
$1,625,000
Remarkable restoration! The main parlor features exquisite pier mirrors and museum quality fixtures.
$1,150,000
This stately colonial style brick home embodies the essence of Southern living. Columned front porch, amazing brick floored veranda, and beautifully landscaped .6 acre lot.
744 Garden Grove Walk $1,425,000
Amazing Waterfront home with lots of windows & natural light. Open floor plan & gleaming hardwood floors.
2364 The Woods Lane
341 Kingsway Drive
$649,000
$899,000
744 Cottage Grove Lane
Location! View of green space! Many updates include opening the floor plan. You must see this home!
Gorgeous large treed lot w/ brick patio. Hardwood floors, 9’ ceilings on 1st floor, & lavish woodwork. Updated Kitchen.
622 Old Coach Road
$598,000
403 W Brannon Road $574,900
2981 Four Pines Drive #4 $544,000
Amazing new ranch built by Danny Adkins. Inviting Kitchen offers white cabinetry and granite counter tops.
Wonderful one level Nicholasville home. Large windows & hdwd floors. Updated deck & many fruit trees.
1916 Lakes Edge Drive $975,000
Outstanding home backing to UK green space. Within walking distance to the UK Arboretum in the 40502.
3208 Hobcaw Lane
Wonderful Warrenton Woods location on a treed .47 acre lot! 9’ ceilings and updated Kitchen.
$649,000
2117 Shelton Road
This condo has great one level living w/ updated eat-in Kitchen. Formal LR with fireplace, DR and large MBR.
$624,900
Beautifully renovated home in Fairway! Fabulous renovated Kitchen with cream cabinetry and a large island.
1004 Castleton Way
$214,900
Beautifully renovated with new Benjamin Moore paint inside and out. Upgraded Electric & Plumbing.
www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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REAL ESTATE
From Castles To Cottages...No One Does It Better 859-268-4663 Visit www.turftown.com Locally Owned & Operated Since 1978 Specializing in the Sale of Luxury, Residential & Farm Properties
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3323 Haley Pike $1,639,000 A gorgeous estate nestled on 24 acres w/ a gated, private driveway, 4-board fencing, 1st floor owner’s suite, and three more additional bedroom suites. Hill Parker 859-608-8039 Pepper Woolwine 859-327-1896
862 McMeekin Place $1,399,000 Luxurious 5 Bedroom home! Amazing chef’s kitchen & upgrades galore! Sumptuous master bathroom and beautiful hardwood floors. Outstanding landscaped yard! Rick Queen 859-221-3616 Becky Mobley 859-321-0819
866 McMeekin Place $1,390,000 Meticulous 4 bedroom with over 5000sq.ft. CW Warner built with recent upgrades. Basement, family & great room & formal dining room. Rear gate to UK (green space). Broker/agent. Becky Mobley 859-321-0819
1879 Parkers Mill Road $1,195,000 One of the most unique properties in Lexington! Situated on 2.3 acres. With 4 bedrooms & 3 baths & 1st floor owner’s suite. World-class renovations & stunning outdoor spaces! Rick Queen 859-221-3616
1996 Newtown Pike $1,098,000 A complete recent remodel and additions by Padgett Construction. Gourmet kitchen, specialty ceilings, hardwood floors, & deluxe bathrooms. Hill Parker 859-608-8039 Pepper Woolwine 859-327-1896
2927 Four Pines Drive $725,000 Classic 3 bedroom and 4.5 bath home with over 4000sq. ft. Hardwood floors, living room with fireplace, custom builtins, custom cherry cabinets and owner’s suite! Rick Queen 859-221-3616 Mary Dorval 859-494-3029
2376 The Woods Lane $645,000 Fabulous 5 bedroom house on a 1/2 acre lot. Featuring a 1st floor owner’s suite, hardwood floors, kitchen with granite and stainless appliances, finished basement, 4 car garage, and fenced yard. Rick Queen 859-221-3616
2480 Jacks Creek Pike $490,000 Tranquility & Privacy are the Hallmarks of this 4 bedroom & 4 bath home. Featuring a 1st floor owner’s suite, family room with fireplace, walkout basement & 10.25 acres. Linda Dickerson 859-221-5404
161 Old Cassidy Ave $435,000 Charming Chevy Chase Home with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1st floor owner’s suite, formal living room, dining room, family room, 2 fireplaces with gas logs, partially finished basement, hardwood floors, and a 2 car garage. Rick Queen 859-221-3616
841 & 843 W. High Street Luxury Townhouses. Upscale & efficient with open living, dining & kitchen. 2 large bedrooms with full baths, Custom cabinets, granite, stainless appliances, 9’-14’ ceilings, hardwood floors & multiple balconies. Steven Wathen 859-621-3313
847 W. High Street $319,000 Renovated 3 Bedroom and 2.5 Bath Dutch Colonial Home. Beautiful high ceilings, hardwood floors, gorgeous mantels & woodwork throughout. Updated kitchen & nice Owner’s suite. Great patio & fenced yard. Steven Wathen 859-621-3313
1333 Corona Drive $269,000 Beautifully updated 4 bedroom & 2.5 bath home on a quiet street. New kitchen, new hardwood floors, fresh paint, formal living with built-ins, family room with fireplace. Large owner’s suite with HUGE walk-in closet. Myra Wathen 859-361-4593
See the Light Come to the Source! Builders and Designers agree that good lighting in the home provides the best visual impact for the least dollar amount invested!
Brecher’s has been the source for lighting since 1866. Visit one of our showrooms for the latest in lighting. For selection, service, and style come to the source.
Celebrating 150 years in lighting!
www.brecherslighting.com
Est. 1866 Louisville: 105 S. Hurstbourne Pkwy. at Shelbyville Rd. 502.426.1520 Mon.-Sat. 9-5 Thursday til 8 Lexington: 104 W. Tiverton Way at Nicholasville Rd. South of Fayette Mall 859.273.3124
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2017 Subaru
OUTBACK
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Not to be the bearer of bad news but... winter weather is coming. Refuse to lose your mobility with a Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive Subaru from Quantrell. Quantrell Subaru is the number one volume Subaru dealership in Kentucky for the last four years.^
Visit Quantrell and discover why people are switching from many other makes to Subaru. Availability as of October 17, 2016. ^Source 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 SOA sales report.
1490 New Circle Road 859-266-2161 800-888-2161 quantrellsubaru.com QS1175-8.625x11.125-KyHmGrdn.indd 1
10/12/16 12:38 PM