At Home in Arkansas | April 2023

Publisher Kelly Fraiser (ext. 101) kelly@athomearkansas.com

Editor in Chief

Stephanie Maxwell Newton (ext. 102) stephanie@athomearkansas.com

Art Director Bailey Dougan (ext. 106) bailey@athomearkansas.com

Online Editor Laura LaRue (ext. 104) laura@athomearkansas.com

Advertising Art Manager Taylor Evans taylor@athomearkansas.com

Contributing Copy Editor Susan Darcey

Contributing Photographer Rett Peek

Contributing Writers Tiffany Adams, Virginia Brown, Tate Gunnerson, and Rebekah Hall Scott

Account Managers Isabella James (ext. 103) isabella@athomearkansas.com

Olivia Haley (ext. 105) olivia@athomearkansas.com

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From the Editor

Late last summer I experienced a fixation anyone who is drawn to antique malls and estate sales will recognize. I fell in love with a find—in this case, a green gingham couch— and I had to have it. Nevermind I didn’t particularly need it, have a place to put it, or really even know if it would “work” with the rest of my décor. Sure, it was in great condition for an excellent price, but here was its main selling point: the sight of it just made me so darn happy. I slept on the idea for one night, then was first in line the next morning when the doors to the estate sale reopened. We made room for the preppy vintage couch in our office, and I have no regrets. I’ve learned not to pass on the things that make me smile.

The homes in this issue also revel in the notion that our homes should make us happy. From bright blue ceilings and candycolored fabrics to whimsical wallpaper patterns, there’s nothing boring or forgettable, just unencumbered creativity. How freeing, to shun the temptation of passing trends and dime-a-dozen knick knacks at big-box stores. So if you’ve been looking for a way to amp up your interiors, give yourself permission: have fun with it. Take a risk for something you love, even if you can’t quite explain why it seems like a good idea. If you love it, it will work.

Latest

This spring, Jill White Designs opens her new office at 322 State Street in downtown Little Rock. Owner Jill White has been working with a local contractor to restore and remodel the 1830 church into a multioffice commercial space, including her own design studio. Here, she’ll have more room for receiving and storing inventory while giving clients a customized experience for meetings and presentations. jillwhitedesigns.com

Date Book

APRIL 14-16 Visit the Northwest Arkansas Home & Outdoor Living Expo at the Rogers Convention Center to connect with vendors who can help bring your interior and exterior projects to life. General admission tickets are $10.

NWAHOMEEXPO.COM

APRIL 20 Little Rock Garden Club hosts renowned floral designer and illustrator Cathy B. Graham at 10 a.m. at the Country Club of Little Rock for a lecture, reception, and signing of her new book, Full Bloom Tickets are $60.

LITTLEROCKGARDENCLUB.ORG

Stephanie Maxwell Newton, Editor in Chief STEPHANIE@ATHOMEARKANSAS.COM

GET IN TOUCH!

We love hearing from our readers. If you have a question, correction, or simply want to share your thoughts on a story, email stephanie@athomearkansas.com. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest (@athomearkansas).

APRIL 22-30 The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Guild presents Symphony of Homes, a self-guided tour of homes running the last two weekends of April. A tour booklet and map of all seven houses will be provided with each $100 ticket. A kick-off event called Prelude Party takes place on April 21, and tickets are $75 each.

ARSYMPHONYGUILD.ORG

CORRECTION

In our March edition, we neglected to resource Scott Connerly of Landscape Associates for his design of the landscaping featured on page 65. We regret the error.

Photo by Rett Peek (portrait) and courtesy of Jill White Designs

“Metro” umbrella in Melon Check and “Sundown” towel. Domestic Domestic, Little Rock

DOMESTICDOMESTIC.COM

Black-and-white checkered cosmetic bag. Fringe Clothing, Little Rock SHOPFRINGECLOTHING.COM

Pink-and-red checkered blanket, “Disco Checker” hook pillow, and Jonathan Adler lacquered box. Presley Paige, Fayetteville PRESLEYPAIGE.COM

Set of 4 woven napkin rings. Eggshells Kitchen Co., Little Rock EGGSHELLSKITCHENCOMPANY.COM

“Sally” beaded earrings and 11-ounce ceramic candle.

Freckled Hen, Fayetteville SHOPFRECKLEDHEN.COM

Checkerboard console table with mother of pearl accents and “Rockford” large square ottoman. Cantrell Furniture Design Center, Little Rock CANTRELLFURNITURE.COM

Images courtesy of vendors

The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Guild presents

This spring, the doors of some of the most beautiful residences in Little Rock will open to you and your friends for the ASO Guild’s Symphony of Homes tour. You will experience the expert craftmanship of well-known builders and the creativity and magic of noted designers in settings that will inspire you.

April 22 - 23, 2023

April 29 - 30, 2023

Saturdays 10 - 6

Sundays 1 - 6

$100 per ticket

Tour Booklet & Map Provided

The tour will run for two weekends, allowing ticket holders to tour all homes in one weekend or choose a few each weekend. Join us for this premier event!

SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS

Hardworking Hues

Colors drawn from down-to-earth materials—think denim, stone, clay, and brick—set the tone for current paint trends

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PRODUCER BAILEY DOUGAN PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK

RED BARN Sherwin-Williams

CHARCOAL BLUE Behr

REDEND POINT 2023 Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year

RASPBERRY BLUSH 2023 Benjamin Moore Color of the Year

HOMBURG GRAY Sherwin-Williams

SELVEDGE Farrow & Ball

PARTNER UP

Neutral paints that play well with others

BLANK CANVAS

2023 Behr

Color of the Year

STINGRAY

Benjamin Moore

HARVEST BROWN Behr

There’s nothing as satisfying as transforming a room with a fresh coat of paint. But making decisions about paint colors can be decidedly less gratifying, considering the many options and varying degrees of saturation across a rainbow of hues. If you’re ready to step outside the white-and-gray box of recent years and delve into color, this year’s trending tones are a great place to start.

whites and grays being the most popular choices, homeowners are now interested in learning about warmer whites, beiges, pinks, and browns. This shift shows us how homeowners are now seeking designs that recreate familiar comforts with healing and haptic materials, moodboosting colors and earth textures.”

FOOTHILLS

Sherwin-Williams

PURBECK STONE

Farrow & Ball

Current paint trends encompass muted blues, chalky teals, brownish reds, and—for a punch of personality—fruit-flavored hues, such as Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year, “Raspberry Blush.” “We felt that 2023 was the right time to highlight a dynamic, expressive color that takes people out of their comfort zones,” says Hannah Yeo, manager of color marketing and development at Benjamin Moore. Having trouble envisioning your walls awash in a color so bright? Hannah advises homeowners start small, but also think how it will make you feel in the space.

“We love ‘Raspberry Blush’ for an entry because this hue will set the stage with personality while welcoming guests in a confident and energetic manner. For those looking to play with color in smaller ways, an accent wall, study, or powder room can be great places to experiment with bolder hues,” she says.

Sherwin-Williams’ Color of the Year, “Redend Point,” is a more muted approach to embracing a warmer color. “‘Redend Point’ is what you’d find if the most beautiful beige could blush,” says Sue Wadden, the company’s director of color marketing. “After a decade of

As for applications, try an all-over approach— painting the ceiling and trim in addition to the walls—for an updated take on organic colors that feel more traditional, like blues and taupes.

“Redend Point” Sherwin-Williams

“Charcoal Blue” Behr

Images courtesy of Behr and Sherwin-Williams

Fresh Appeal

Matthew Morgan of The Details blends style influences to create a gracious dining room in Fort Smith

TATE GUNNERSON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

ot long after tying the knot, Sheryl and Bill Steve Walker knew a redesign was in order at Bill Steve’s longtime Fort Smith residence. The house felt dark and dated, with chopped up rooms and heavy wood cabinetry. Envisioning a lighter, brighter home, the couple hired Carrington Creek Homes to reconfigure the floor plan, replace flooring, and update millwork and cabinetry.

While these changes helped the home feel more current, the challenge came in marrying the couple’s divergent design tastes: Bill Steve is a hunter with a penchant for rustic and African-inspired elements, and Sheryl desires a more feminine approach with touches of bling. To find the sweet spot between their styles, they called Fayetteville interior designer Matthew Morgan, who came on board before renovations began. “The goal was to mix botanicals and contemporary, feminine pieces with a Ralph Lauren-inthe-wild look,” he says. “It was difficult to create that balance.”

Inspired by lush banana leaf plants around the house—and Bill Steve’s backyard greenhouses—the designer covered the dining room walls with a bold floral pattern. “If you look out the windows, even in the depths of winter, you see blues and greens. I wanted to bring that nature inside,” Matthew says.

Against the back wall, the team removed mirrored wall paneling between a pair of built-ins to create a special focal point in the center: an old world-style oil painting that would be equally at home in a hunting lodge as it is in this sophisticated space. They also replaced the drawer and cabinet door fronts, added custom glass inserts, installed a new quartzite countertop, and gave everything a fresh coat of white paint.

While keeping the couple’s antique dining table and chairs, Matthew selected a modern bowl-style light to replace the room’s existing iron chandelier. “The home has a fresh, inviting feeling, and they adore it,” he says, noting

the best results often come from taking risks in design. “If you’re in your comfort zone, I’ve failed. When working with an interior designer, go 15% past what's expected and you’ll wind up with something really special.”

During renovations, Carrington Creek Homes enclosed an extra doorway between the dining room and kitchen to help define this space.

1

FLORAL FOCUS

Taking inspiration from Bill Steve’s green thumb, Matthew selected a boisterous floral wallcovering (“Watercolor Poppy” by Carey Lind Designs for York) in a green and white colorway that reflects the home’s verdant surroundings.

2

OUTDOOR INSPIRATION

Nods to the natural world continue overhead. Schumacher’s “Stargaze” covers the coffered ceiling, bringing to mind the night sky, while a sculptural, shellinspired light fixture by Aerin for Visual Comfort mimics a natural wonder from under the sea.

3

BUILT ON A CLASSIC

One of Matthew’s most strongly held beliefs is to repurpose quality furnishings when possible. “You can turn your existing pieces into something completely new and one-of-a-kind that you will love,” he says. To this end, he added custom skirts to Sheryl’s antique Hepplewhite chairs to completely freshen the look. “It gives the room a whole new softness.”

4

FORM MEETS FUNCTION

Clean-lined cabinetry and transitional hardware bring current style to balance the room’s more traditional elements, while a crystal detail on the drawer knobs delivers a dose of glam. New quartzite countertops create a convenient bar or serving area during parties.

—Matthew Morgan, designer

“You can turn your existing pieces into something completely new and one-of-a-kind that you will love.”

Smith Hardwood Floors GLASS Cutting Edge Glass Creations MILLWORK Fine Lines Custom Wood

PAINT Platinum Coatings and Sherwin-Williams UPHOLSTERY Fletcher Upholstery WINDOW COVERINGS Kat Studios

Never say never—that’s the lesson learned by Joy Ellis, owner of Skylark Cafe in Leslie. She was born and raised in the small Ozarks town and during that time, her mom owned a café on Main Street, which she sold when Joy was 16. “She said, ‘Joy, you might want to take this over,’ and I was like, ‘I’m never going to have a restaurant,’” she recalls.

After an internship in Austin, Texas, Joy was drawn back to Leslie with the desire to buy and fix up an old house. “My mom really loves cool, small houses, and that rubbed off on me,” she says. She bought the Dr. J. O. Cotton House, a 1915 Craftsmanstyle home on the National Register of Historic Places. She thought it might make a nice bookstore or coffee shop, and she recruited family members to help gut and restore the residence to its former time period. “People did some terrible things to old houses in the ’70s and ’80s,” she says, laughing. “We tried to take it back to what it was and keep it as original as possible.”

Today, you can visit the Dr. J. O. Cotton House not as a bookstore or coffee shop, but as the charming Skylark Cafe. Over the years, there have been changes to the restaurant Joy

swore she'd never own; for example, her sister took over the business for a stint when she moved to Austin for a change of pace. When Joy returned, her husband, Denver—a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef—came on board, and they incorporated more barbecue and Tex Mex flavorings into the menu. “We still have a lot of classics, but Denver brought his culinary expertise and really upped our game,” she says.

People come from all over to visit the Searcy County restaurant, which makes a perfect stop along the trek from Little Rock to Eureka Springs or for those looking to for a sit-down meal on trips to the Buffalo River. “We have a good percentage of locals, but our bread and butter is people going to Branson, Mountain View, places like that,” she says. The location is part of why Joy decided to move back to the Ozarks in the first place. Now, she and Denver have three children and make the most of the region’s rich opportunities. “We spend most of the summer out there on the Buffalo. We pack an ice chest and floaties and stay all day at Tyler Bend or Grinder’s Ferry,” she says. “Arkansas is just so nice. Even when the river is too low, or it’s too hot, we can hit the spring-fed creeks.

Back porch dining at Skylark Cafe. Owner Joy Ellis drew inspiration from the beach for the exterior’s cheery teal color.

Historic wall advertisements make a statement in downtown Eureka Springs.

—Joy Ellis, Skylark Cafe

“I’ve lived here my whole life, and there are still things to discover wherever we go.”

LIFE DISCOVER

Last night we found a new trail with little waterfalls. I’ve lived here my whole life and there are still things to discover wherever we go.”

In the past couple of years, the Ellises have expanded their business with the addition of a neighboring field where children can run and play right outside the restaurant’s doors. They also hope to grow vegetables and flowers on the land. In 2021, they opened Little Hill Shop, a gift store featuring local artists and makers. “We felt like in this area, we didn’t have a place to buy gifts for people. We’re 45 minutes from Walmart. We wanted to make a space where people can shop for something special,” she says. “The thing about rural areas is if you have a dream, you can kind of just create it. Things are affordable, so there are opportunities. If you do something well, people will appreciate you.” Read on for more of our favorite ways to discover the Ozarks.

SHOP

T-shirts, candles, home goods, children’s books—there’s something for everyone at THE LITTLE HILL SHOP (instagram.com/ thelittlehillshop) in Leslie. Just outside of town, don’t miss SERENITY FARM BREAD (serenityfarmbread.com), a bakery specializing in old-world sourdough bread. In Eureka Springs, foodies will want to visit GOURMET EUREKA (gourmet-eureka. com) for a selection of tea and spices from around the globe as well as kitchenware, coffee, and local canned goods.

DINE

A trip through the Ozarks isn’t complete without lunch at SKYLARK CAFE (skylarkforever.com). Try the BBQ Chicken Quesadillas or Smoked Brisket Tacos, but be sure to save room for one of their fresh-daily desserts. In Eureka Springs, make a reservation for a night out at GROTTO (grottoeureka.com), a wood-fired grill with an intimate atmosphere made even more enchanting by the cave walls surrounding the underground restaurant. Get your brunch fix at Eureka’s THE SPRING ON MAIN (thespringonmain.com), where eggs benedict, charcuterie, and craft cocktails are the name of the game.

VISIT

On April 1, EUREKA SPRINGS SCHOOL OF THE ARTS (essa-art. org) hosts Hands On ESSA, a free event welcoming people of all ages to try something new, from watercolor and wheelthrown pottery to woodturning, weaving, and welding. Local artists and craftspeople will be offering live demonstrations and leading hands-on activities. The 60th annual ARKANSAS FOLK FESTIVAL takes place April 14-15 in Mountain View. Visit the town’s downtown square for a market of artisan vendors, live music, and a parade—all free, open to the public, and in celebration of the region’s rich crafting traditions.

New Orleans Hotel in Eureka Springs.

The eclectic interiors of Skylark Cafe.

The rainbow steps between Main and Spring streets are a recent addition to Eureka Springs’ vibrant downtown.

Together Again

What’s on display when the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts celebrates its grand opening this month

The city of Little Rock and the wider arts community in Arkansas can breathe a sigh of relief when the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts opens its doors on April 22. Formerly known as the Arkansas Arts Center, the organization has long been one of the state’s most beloved cultural centers. Now, the rebranded, rebuilt, and reimagined AMFA takes what people loved about its former iteration and expands the possibilities. “I think the museum itself—and when I say museum, I mean not only the collection of art, but the programs offered, the theater, the art school, the building, the grounds, the entire institution—they’re really being designed to be almost future-proof,” says curator Theresa Bembnister. “We’re creating a space for today’s audiences, but also the audiences we hope to see tomorrow. It's a space where people are going to be able to do so many things in terms of learning, relaxing, socializing, and understanding better who they are. I don't think very many other museums in the country are offering that to their communities.”

Here, Theresa shares insight on the permanent collection, temporary exhibits, and what makes the museum, still at home on East Ninth Street in downtown Little Rock, so special.

A NEW HOME

While AMFA’s galleries and offices are new, there are vestiges of the former arts center present throughout. This was an intentional design decision made by the museum’s lead architecture team, Studio Gang. “Studio Gang is really interested in sustainability,” Theresa says. “They wanted this building to match the footprint of the old building as much as possible for conservation purposes.”

Inside, there are five galleries dedicated to the permanent collection, one featuring a series of rotating exhibitions (currently showing “Drawn to Paper," selected drawings from the permanent collection), two galleries for temporary exhibitions, and, brand-new for the institution, a new-

The courtyard entrance to Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts photographed by Tim Hursley in September 2022. Inset: A detail of the two-story Atrium, which connects all the key areas of the museum.

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

Photos by Tim Hursley courtesy of Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

media gallery for showcasing work with audio-visual components. There are also areas both inside and outside the building for sitespecific installations, two of which will be in place for the grand opening. “Studio Gang created spaces we can use for programs both formal and informal. It could be educational programming or a gala,” Theresa says. “We can also display art in those spaces. It’s really flexible, and that’s by design. I’m hoping that moving forward, after we have the building open for a while and we understand how it works and how people are using it, we can activate some of these other spaces for sitespecific works, too.”

OLD FAVORITES

Not every part of AMFA worth celebrating is brand new. Take, for example, the permanent

collection of approximately 15,000 works that the museum has been growing since its inception. “This institution is unique in that the majority of our collection is works on paper,” Theresa says, noting that this designation encompasses not only drawings but photographs, prints, and paintings as well. Because of the delicate nature of paper, these pieces can only be displayed (and exposed to light) for three to six months before they have to be put back in storage for five to seven years. “We’re turning over those works on paper every six months. So if you think you’ve seen what we have, come back again.”

For the museum’s initial opening, Theresa and the rest of the curatorial team have put together an exhibition that serves as a reintroduction to the museum’s permanent collection. “We’re telling stories with the art we select,” she says. “We’re telling stories about art history, about the history of this institution, and about Little Rock, all with the choices we make.” The five galleries will follow an almost chronological timeline, starting with a “who’s who” of the collection and then showing impressionist, modernist, and contemporary works. Throughout, the curators have carefully juxtaposed contemporary art with older works, hoping to inspire people to pause and consider the effect historical context has on art. “We’re looking for people to ask, how is it different when we have a portrait done in the 1800s versus a portrait done in 1980? We want to inspire those stop-and-think kind of moments.”

FRESH OPPORTUNITIES

One of AMFA’s opening exhibitions will be visible before you even step foot in the building: An installation by Texas-based artist Natasha

This page, from top: A detail from Natasha Bowdoin’s “In the Night Garden,” an installation for the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth, Texas, shows the graphic nature of Bowdoin’s organic-inspired creations. “Natasha Bowdoin: Spring Song” will be on display in AMFA’s Art Perch. “Blue Dancer (Before Class, Three Dancers) by French impressionist Edgar Degas is part of the permanent collection, as is “Snowflakes” by American painter Andrew Wyeth.

Images courtesy of Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Bowdoin takes over the Art Perch, a space visible from the museum’s north entrance. “Natasha is known for her gardenscapes. She makes these very lush, colorful flowers and leaves that look like they’re going to come to life and grow over everything,” Theresa says. In the Corridor, another area designated for installations, New York artist Anne Lindberg has made an ethereal creation suspended overhead. “Anne makes these sculptures that she considers to be drawing. She takes miles and miles of cotton thread and staples them from wall to wall, back and forth and back and forth to create this cloud of thread and space,” the curator says. Specific lighting casts a glow over the final installation. Like Bowdoin’s gardenscape, this piece is being designed specifically for AMFA, meaning you won’t ever see this exact work anywhere else.

“There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to make these happen,” Theresa says of these larger-than-life installations. “Being a curator, we’re often front and center, but I have a lot of colleagues working behind the scenes to make it look like everything’s seamless. It’s really a team effort.”

TOGETHER AGAIN

Several temporary exhibits have also been specially curated for AMFA’s opening. “Chakaia Booker: Intentional Risks” showcases the work of Chakaia Booker, most well known for her sculptures created out of shredded tires. “Even just the smell of those draws you in,” Theresa says. “Her work to me engages so many senses.” “Intentional Risks” will show prints by the artist along with one of her signature sculptures.

Sun Xun will be the first artist to have work featured in the AMFA’s new-media gallery. “Sun Xun: Tears of Chiwen” incorporates traditional Chinese ink drawing into a contemporary form: animated film. “My secret curator tip for museum going is that new-media galleries are a really great place to rest your feet,” Theresa laughs. “Just sit down, take a break, and take it in.”

Finally, “Together.” invites viewers to consider the meaning of togetherness through the work of artists from all over the world, in mediums ranging from video art to photography, painting, sculpture, and fiber arts. “After being closed, the museum hasn’t been able to welcome our community in the way that were when we were open to the public,” Theresa says. “So it’s a way to celebrate being together again.”

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts opens on April 22. Visit arkmfa.org for hours and more information.

This page, clockwise from top: “Standing Bull” by Elaine de Kooning is part of the permanent collection. “This piece was recently conserved, so it will be on display in all its glory greeting people as soon as they walk in the door,” Theresa says. Made from reclaimed electrical wires and components, "Tightrope" by Elias Sime is part of temporary exhibition "Together." An electric green installation by Anne Lindberg (commissioned by Nevada Museum of Art) is an example of the kind of thread-based installation the artist has created in AMFA’s Corridor.

The Fashion Files

Spring into style with fresh neutrals from local boutiques

1 & 2 French Kande triple strand of freshwater pearls featuring exclusive “Cuvee B” medallion with Austrian crystals and a tie-front leather top in Ecru. Vesta’s, Little Rock, 501.375.7820

3 Pistola “Charlie High Rise” straight-cut button-fly jeans with “Hysteria” distressing. Beyond Cotton 2, Little Rock, shopbc2.com

4 Leather laptop bag featuring cane detailing. Box Turtle, Little Rock, shopboxturtle.com

5 “Adut” acetate sunglasses in Honey Tort Caramel by Banbé. Lola, Fayetteville, shoplola.com

Photos by Rett Peek (shirt and bag) and courtesy of vendors

DRAMATIC DINING

The dining room came together in waves. Susan knew she’d be working with a few pieces from her client’s previous home, including the dining table, buffet, and chandelier. Then she found the pièce de résistance—a Brunschwig & Fils wallpaper called “Le Grand Palais,” and its cobalt color and over-scaled damask pattern set the tone for the rest of the room. “When I found the wallpaper, I knew I wanted to paint the table black,” Susan says. “I think I threw her a curveball; she had to sit on it a bit, but she said, ‘Let’s do it.’” The buffet was painted black to match and given a marble top for a total refresh.

Several years ago, the owner of this home in Little Rock’s Heights neighborhood was looking for some help refreshing the recently purchased residence. Her daughter-in-law connected her with designer Susan Walsh, and thus began a yearslong collaboration culminating in an interior that feels dedicated to her favorite color combo.

For the overall aesthetic, the client had a simple request. “Her only requirements were blues and whites,” Susan says. “I was curating items for her house, and she understood that it takes time and research, and she was good with that.” They started the project with a meeting at the client’s former home, determining which pieces could translate to the new space. These would become the anchor pieces Susan incorporated into the new house in an updated way.

True to the “hurry up and wait" nature of home projects, this one was originally set on a tight timeline —only to experience delays near the end. Susan initially had six weeks before the homeowner needed to move in. She worked with contractor Fred Lord to remove the existing entryway tile for a fresher marble look and add panel molding. To help expedite the process, Fred even hired two paint crews—one for the left wing of the house and one for the right—and Susan got to work on a plan for furnishings. When the homeowner moved in, the project was almost complete; it was liveable, but some areas, such as the living room, were still a work in progress. Then the COVID-19 pandemic began, and those final touches were put on hold even longer, turning this six-week project into a much longer endeavor. Extending the process was fine by Susan, who believes good design takes time. “A house really does evolve,” she says. “Which is not to say that you can’t do it all at once, but we did a lot in that first year and still allowed space for things to happen over time. That’s what made her house feel more personal.” AH

RELAXING RETREAT

A casual family room close to the back of the house offers the homeowner a place to gather with guests for television and conversation. “She spends a lot of time in this room and loves it, so it needed to be comfortable and allow for her to have friends over,” Susan says. She had existing swivel chairs reupholstered in a textured navy fabric and sourced a white sculptural mirror from Made Goods to add additional architectural interest.

STATEMENT CEILING

Susan pulled the deep blue hue from the wallpaper in the adjoining dining room and painted the living room ceiling in “Blueberry Hill” by Benjamin Moore. “At first she thought I was crazy, but painting the ceiling gave it a lot of lift,” Susan says. She also helped her client source original art. For example, the painting over the couch by Little Rock artist Zac Woodiel was created especially for this space. Across the room, a piece by Barbara Flowers (sourced from Anne Irwin Fine Art in Atlanta) hangs over the mantel.

Transitional elements such as the glass coffee table and foyer mirror balance the antiques and traditional architectural elements found throughout the house. Custom drapes, sconce shades, and ottomans covered in a blue-andblack velvet tiger print further the room’s layered appeal.

PLAYFUL CONTRAST

Since the homeowner has plenty of grandchildren who like to spend the night, Susan wanted to have fun in a guest room intended for little ones. She chose a pale green wall color (“Rice Paddy” by SherwinWilliams) paired with blue bedding and X-benches at the foot of each twin bed. Custom watercolors by Little Rock’s Ashley Saer tie together all the colors in the room.

“Sapphire Ice” Benjamin Moore

SOFT AND SOOTHING

Damask reappears in the primary bedroom (opposite), where Susan repeated a China Seas fabric in applications on the bedskirt, bench, upholstered headboard, and custom floor-to-ceiling draperies. She used a similar paint color to fully ensconce the room in the light blue hue. “It’s saturated, but still very soft and relaxing,” she says.

INDOOR-OUTDOOR APPEAL

The backyard offers multiple areas for enjoying spring weather with friends and family. A covered porch is accessible from both the family room and primary bedroom, and Susan outfitted the space with timeless wicker pieces from Century Furniture. “We wanted it to be comfortable, and you have the flagstone to balance the wicker,” Susan says. By the pool, a table and chairs from Ballard Designs offer a spot for dining al fresco. Custom outdoor cushions tie the spaces together as well as to the home’s blue-and-white interiors.

Design Resources

CONTRACTOR Fred Lord INTERIOR DESIGN Susan Walsh, Susan Walsh Interiors CARPET AND RUGS C&F Carpet and Rug Gallery FRAMING BA Framing TILE Acme Brick & Tile

In Bentonville, interior designer Whitney Romanoff helps restore a century-old farmhouse deeply rooted in Arkansas history while imbuing it with cottage charm and playful details

WRITER REBEKAH HALL SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK

FARMHOUSE FEEL

Though they

For Erin and Jon Richardson, bringing new life to their 120-year-old stone farmhouse required a creative collaboration that embraced their love of color, pattern, and playfulness while honoring the history of the home and its builder. After connecting with Whitney Romanoff of Meet West Studio via Instagram, Erin said she quickly knew she had found the right designer. “I just loved Whitney’s style,” she says. “I loved that it was organic, and I could tell that she had a strong vision.”

The Bentonville farmhouse is a slice of Arkansas history that Erin and Jon were determined to preserve and amplify. The land the house sits on was first purchased in 1898 by Aaron “Rock” Van Winkle, an emancipated slave who worked as a lumberman in the Northwest Arkansas region. According to Jerry Harris Moore, a historian and professor of sociology at Northwest Arkansas Community College, Rock was a skilled engineer and “principal agent” of Van Winkle Mills, owned by Peter Van Winkle. Timber from the Van Winkle Mills was used to build

originally planned to build a custom island, a console table Erin’s aunt sourced from a farmhouse in Georgia ended up being the perfect size for the new kitchen. “I love the age that it adds, and the oversized knobs,” Whitney says. “It’s another family piece that is now living its best life.” Pendants with ceramic shades hang above, providing both farmhouse form and practical function. A custom shelf ledge running the length of the windows is a favorite sunning spot for the family’s four cats.

Whitney embraced that the dining room does not receive a lot of natural light and leaned into it with this “perfect, earthy blue-green,” she says. The wallpaper is “Bird and Pomegranate” by

Morris

& Co.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

hundreds of homes and businesses in the area, including the University of Arkansas’s Old Main. Jerry says Rock’s impact on the Bentonville community—and his contributions to Arkansas history—cannot be overstated. “What makes this house important is that Rock built it. It was Rock’s house, and it wasn’t anyone else’s house,” Jerry says. “He used timber from the empire that he helped build, so he took what he had developed and created a space for his family. At the time, the

house he built was top notch. He built a house equivalent to the wealthy whites, and probably better than most whites. The area he lived in was in the country, so therefore Bentonville grew to his area and then passed it.”

Erin and Jon bought the home in February 2020, and they lived in the house for a year before making any changes, which Whitney says was the “total right thing” to do. “They were able to fully understand what was working, what wasn’t

Erin credits Whitney for embracing many of her family’s heirloom pieces, incorporating them seamlessly into the home’s design. Rustic hickory dining chairs from Erin’s family in the North Carolina mountains were revamped with plush pink cushions, and an heirloom table was refinished in an espresso matte finish. Erin’s grandmother’s sideboard was also restored and painted to match the room. “It fits perfectly in that spot and looks like something we had built in,” Whitney says.

“Saturday on Sunday” Backdrop

THROUGH THE YEARS

Inspired by the kitchens of Italian, French, and British farmhouses, Erin and Whitney wanted to use natural materials and finishes designed to age gracefully over time. The terracotta tiles are sealed but not polished, giving them an antique finish that “connects the space to the surrounding landscape and earth outside,” Whitney says. The faucets, light switches, and hardware are unlacquered brass, which Whitney says “continues living and adds a great warmth to the space.”

ARTISAN TOUCHES

The home sits on land that was once a walnut farm, and a few trees remain on the property. Whitney paid homage to this through the use of a custom-mixed walnut stain to get a warm, rich tone for the lower cabinets. They contrast elegantly with the backsplash of handmade zellige tile. “It had lots of earthiness in the glaze, so I thought Erin, as a ceramicist, would really appreciate it,” Whitney says.

“Breakfast Room Green” Farrow & Ball

LET THE LIGHT IN

As a fresh breath of light

in contrast to the moodier dining room, the home’s family room is painted in Benjamin Moore’s “Opal,” which Whitney says has the “perfect undertone of peachy pink.” “In the afternoon with the light from the windows behind the sofa, it just makes this room have a peachy sunset glow,” Whitney says. “Erin is not one to have all-over white paint, so this gave us some color but still brightened the space, keeping it open and airy with a warm glow at night.”

working, and how they used the space,” Whitney says. “I think it says a lot about Erin, too, and her care and respect for the home—she didn’t want to just come in and start ripping out walls.”

Aesthetically, Erin was inspired by British maximalist interiors and the “old world feel” of European farmhouses. For her part, Whitney researched the designs of William Morris and the Arts and Crafts movement, with their emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship, to marry those influences within the context of this house.

“We really wanted to make the space feel like them ,” Whitney says. “We wanted to warm it up, add some light, and, with some of the choices we made, root it back into Arkansas and the time period of the home. In Erin’s words, ‘I want to do right by Rock.’”

When design changes began, Erin was pregnant with the couple’s first child, so reconfiguring the laundry room was the top priority. They then moved through the rest of the home, imbuing each space with color, pattern, and hand-crafted details that speak to both the history of the home and the passions of its current inhabitants. “Erin is a

Jon, Erin, and their daughter, Byrd, pose in the family room along with their pugboxer mix, Ted.

“Opal” Benjamin Moore

WELCOMING WHIMSY

Whitney used another Morris & Co. wallpaper, titled “Honeysuckle,” in the home’s entry. “It’s one of those Arkansas memories, the red clay and the honeysuckle summer,” Whitney says. The built-in benches provide storage and, along with the trim, ceiling, and molding, are painted the same light green as the kitchen cabinets. “Something about this ‘Breakfast Room Green’ is a couple notches up on the funk,” Whitney says. “It has a little bit of the electricity Erin was looking for.”

DETAILS THAT SING

In the guest bathroom, Whitney was inspired by historic homes and old hotels, where the spaces look “custom and built in, and not tacked on.” Grasscloth wallpaper “adds a bit of richness, warmth and texture,” she says, but doesn’t take away from the custom mosaic floor by American Restoration Tile, whom she worked with to create the design based on a wedding quilt pattern from the 1920s.

CUSTOM CURVES

The guest bath vanity was found on Facebook Marketplace, and for the countertop, a remnant of granite was treated with a matte finish. “Something about that subtle curve that fits perfectly around the rounded mirror adds a little something extra that makes it feel special,” Whitney says. The diminutive sconce features a pleated ceramic lampshade, both a nod to the British interiors that inspired the home’s décor and to Erin’s craft.

ceramicist, so we felt like that was something we wanted to celebrate for her—the hand of the artist, and those details being present in as many finishes as we could select,” Whitney says.

For Erin and Jon, caring for the home Rock Van Winkle built is rooted in ensuring the house—and his story—continue to stand the test of time. “When we bought this home, we knew that we were just temporary visitors here,” Erin says. “This home was here before we were born and will be here after we die, and we are just stewards of it. It was our job to leave this home in a better place than we found it. That’s how we view our role in this home.” AH

“Azores” Benjamin Moore

The guest room is a romantic, restful retreat that carries through the home's color story and comfortable touches.

BATHING BEAUTY

“We wanted to give it that bathhouse feel,” Whitney says of the primary bath. The small room has low ceilings, so the addition of the skylight helps open the space, as does carrying the handmade white subway tile all the way onto the ceiling. To the left of the claw foot tub, a pony wall separates the shower. A rustic three legged stool adds earthy warmth, while a vintage acrylic and brass towel bar from France brings a touch of glamour.

SMALL SPACE, BIG IMPACT

Working within the room’s confines, Whitney chose small mirrors to nestle in the curves of the vanity’s “Statuario” marble countertop and a twin sconce to shed light on the double sinks. Handmade Mexican hardware in a forged bronze and the walnut tones of the vanity bring warmth to the bright, airy room.

Design Resources CONTRACTOR (BATHROOMS, DINING, AND KITCHEN) KTJ Construction CONTRACTOR (LAUNDRY ROOM) Allen Echols INTERIOR DESIGN Whitney Romanoff, Meet West Studio ACCESSORIES, FABRICS, FIXTURES, HARDWARE, LIGHTING, MIRRORS, WALLPAPER, AND WINDOW COVERINGS

AND COUNTERTOPS JRG

Tile and Meet West Studio TILE (INSTALLATION) Travis

wanted this to be the wildest little laundry room in Bentonville.”

CHARM & FUNCTION

The laundry room had to be a workhorse that also “sparked joy and was fun to be in when you’re doing a not fun task,” Whitney says. The skirted sink is both inspired by British cottage décor and is a clever disguise for the cats’ litter box. The room needed to be inaccessible for the family’s dog, Ted, which was achieved through a custom cat flap installed on the door. Another custom mosaic tile floor adds historic charm, and House of Hackney’s “Phantasia” wallpaper—complete with a motif of flying dragon-cat hybrids—fills the small space with a sense of playfulness.

“I

—Erin Richardson, homeowner

A landscape painting by Karen Smidth (purchased through Maybaum Gallery in San Francisco) set the tone for this colorful home.

ARTFULLY Designed Designed

Inspired by a homeowner’s love of paintings and photography, designer Heather Krijt creates a colorfully sophisticated residence

When Heather Krijt first visited this Little Rock project, she found what was essentially a blank canvas. “The client had been playing golf with my husband and mentioned he could use some help decorating,” she recalls. Desiring to make the house feel cohesive as well as reflective of his style, the homeowner wanted Heather’s help with the entire Heights cottage—particularly the living and entertaining spaces.

As they talked, Heather learned her client had an interest in art, a detail she ran with in terms of inspiration. “He asked if I could help him procure a few pieces, and this became the genesis for the entire design,” she says. “I was an art history minor so I love using art as a starting point,” she adds, noting she has developed gallery relationships all over the U.S.

The update warranted mostly cosmetic changes, including new lighting and furnishings. Heather also refreshed the walls with a mix of neutral wallpaper and white paint to intentionally create spaces where the focus would be her client’s new pieces of art. These include textile works and photography as well as painted landscapes and abstracts. “Even though we bought all of the art at once, we opted for different frames and even no frames to make sure it felt curated,” she says.

The same attention was given to the palette; while the initial colors were pulled from the works, a cadence of blue and purple hues repeats throughout the house. “The homeowner really loves purple—which was unexpected,” Heather says. A landscape over the mantel brought the color into

WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

the fold and allowed Heather to weave it throughout the design, bringing the warmth and personality her client desired all through his home. AH

CHEERFUL WELCOME

“The homeowner enters the house here, so this is the first thing he sees when he comes home from work,” Heather says of the den. To make it a welcoming sight, she played off of his love for the color purple, pulling the hue from the artwork over the mantel. The tile around the fireplace was left intact and coordinates beautifully with a new pair of velvet-upholstered chairs. Details in texture and pattern make the room’s more neutral pieces, such as the rug and a side chair, stand out.

In the den, a custom-made leather banquette offers extra seating while adhering to the home’s colorful palette. The artwork seen above is by Sarah Benham from Cynthia Byrnes Gallery in New York.

BACK TO BASICS

The den, kitchen, and breakfast area are united by grasscloth wallpaper as well as drapery panels that repeat across a shared wall. In the kitchen, Heather replaced pendants over the island with glass globe styles and added comfortable barstools to accommodate a crowd. She kept the homeowner’s existing wood table in place for casual breakfast dining. “It has such a great patina and fits the space,” she says. New upholstered chairs and a red open-frame lantern tie in with the hues seen in the connecting spaces.

GREENING UP

“This space was a head-scratcher,” Heather says of a small, narrow room located between the kitchen and dining room. Knowing the homeowner wanted a place to read in the evenings, she transformed the space into a bar area with a dedicated reading nook and went all in on a green paint covering the walls, cabinets, and trim. “The green ties into the overall palette, but it is different from what you see in the rest of the house, she says.” The backsplash on the bar features a handcrafted tile in a range of blues, while metallic grasscloth adds interest to the ceiling.

ALL FUN AND GAMES

A tulip table and contemporary-style chairs offer space for pre-dinner cocktails with friends or a game night. “He likes to entertain so I wanted to create a comfortable conversation area,” Heather says. Schumacher fabrics on both the chairs and drapery panels play off the shapes in the paper collage work by Lori Glavin that hangs on the wall.

“With a small space, it’s fun to go bold.”

—Heather Krijt, designer

“Crushing Green” Benjamin Moore

ELEVATED ELEGANCE

In the dining room, a chromogenic print from aerial photographer Alex MacLean stands out against the home’s original plaster walls (opposite). Heather covered the dining chairs in a striated velvet, while the drapes are a Holland & Sherry wool sateen with a two-tone velvet trim, selections that work together to give the room a polished feel. On the opposite wall, a nearly 5-foot-tall woven mixed media piece by textile designer and artist Megan Adams Brooks hangs above a 20th century Swedish buffet (above). A Murano glass lamp complements both the height of the artwork and the room’s color palette.

TONE ON TONE

In the front living room (below), Heather notes blue acts as a neutral hue. “The icy blue on the sectional kind of goes away when you look at the room,” she says. Artwork by Maura Segal ties in two deeper versions of the color while a mohair-covered chair highlights the homeowner’s favorite color, purple. Underfoot, a grid-pattern rug brings contemporary dimension as well as warmth to the space.

Design Resources

INTERIOR DESIGN Heather Krijt, HK Designs ACCESSORIES Bear Hill Interiors, Cobblestone & Vine, and HK Designs ART, FABRICS, FURNITURE, HARDWARE, LIGHTING, RUGS, TILE, AND WALLPAPER HK Designs CABINETRY Kimberly Cabinets FRAMING Louie’s Unique Framing & Gallery PAINT Benjamin Moore PAINTING Color Me Bad TILE (INSTALLATION) Paul Fowler WALLPAPER (INSTALLATION)

Mike Mace WINDOW COVERINGS Interior Creations

Back Row from left to right: Amy Glover Bryant, Stacy Hamilton, Amanda Elrod, Allison Pickell. F Front Row from left to right: La Kesha Crow, Lynn Pangburn, Marva Caldwell.

2023

REAL ESTATE AGENTS TO LOVE

Whether buying or selling a house, you want someone you can trust on your side. Use this guide to make finding a real estate agent easier than ever

Myranda Gruelke

Melissa John

Jowaun Wright

Meredith Melody-Hubbell

Mandy Jackson

Emily Barnes McCarty

Emily Young

Amber Gibbons

Jordan Roehrenbeck

Michelle Miller

Sheryl McKelvey

Lauren Clark

April Findlay

Erica Ibsen

Jonie Burks

2411 McCain Blvd. North Little Rock 501.944.8687

stacimedlock.com

Staci Medlock

For almost 20 years, Staci Medlock has been helping clients find their dream homes and sell their current residences. From first-time buyers to repeat customers, much of her business is based on referrals. Staci is backed by the staff and coagents at Re/Max Elite, whom she describes as a “family-style” support system. “I am a very hard worker and put my all into every aspect of what I do,”

Staci says. “The current market is more competitive than ever, and I’m competitive negotiating for my clients. I also have experience with the building process, renovating old homes, and helping my clients find the perfect investment properties. I tell my clients, let me handle everything! Most of the time I’m solving problems they don’t even know they have. I genuinely love what I do!”

12814 Cantrell Road

Little Rock

Lolly 501.960.4277

Michelle 501.837.9189

lollyhonea.com

SERVICE AREAS ACCOLADES

Central Arkansas, and statewide per client request

The Honea Team

Mother-daughter team Lolly Honea and Michelle HoneaFrueauff bring more than 40 years of personal experience to their clients. Both Lolly and Michelle’s husbands play an active role in referrals as well. Ross, Lolly’s late husband, ran a successful insurance business, and Michelle’s husband, David, is the CEO of the Charles A. Frueauff Foundation. This mother-daughter team has been known as “The Land Ladies” and have vast knowledge of the Ferndale area, which is growing and becoming one of the most

sought after areas in west Little Rock. Additionally, Michelle brings more than 20 years of IT experience to the duo, allowing them to market your home quickly and effectively through multiple social media platforms in addition to newspapers and other mediums. Their firm, Keller Williams, offers highly advanced, technology-driven marketing and communication applications to its clients. They are extremely grateful for the customers and clients that have entrusted to them one of their most valuable assets, their home.

SERVICE AREAS ACCOLADES

Little Rock and West Pulaski County

Double Diamond Status for over thirty years with the Little Rock Realtors Association and a Little Rock Soirée Best Realtor.

Photo by Connor North Goad

2016 President of the North Pulaski Board of Realtors (NPBR), 2016 NPBR Realtor of the Year, Diamond level multi-million dollar producer for almost 20 years, Justice of Peace for Pulaski County Quarum Court for District 15 for 4 terms.

Pixel Properties

Thank you to our clients and friends who nominated us as At Home in Arkansas “Real Estate Agents to Love.” We love you too!

From the late-night calls negotiating your offers; to the sellers leaving for a

weekend so your home can be shown non-stop for days; to all the moms keeping the house spotless while kids and dogs run wild; to all the dads waiting to come home from work later so another buyer can see it; to

all the group texts, electronic signature fails, paperwork; and to the lenders, title companies, inspectors, and appraisers behind the scenes who make our job possible: we appreciate YOU so much!!

We’ve spent years working with thousands of clients to create a phenomenal home buying and selling experience. Being nominated and recognized affirms our dedication to creating a better way to do real estate.

10515 W Markham H9 Little Rock, AR 72205 501.319.7557

pixelproperties.com @pixelproperties

Matt Ferrell

Hallie Dennis

Ray Ellen

Sara Thorpe

FRONT ROW - LEFT TO RIGHT Robert Klein, Dana Yates, Cara Hazlewood

BACK ROW - LEFT TO RIGHT Margaret Bell Hughes, Kris McKenzie, Maradyth McKenzie, Hannah Howe

Holly Driver (501) 912-5231

Tracie Walker (501) 831-4444

Amy Bush The Holly Driver Team (501) 912-5231

Barb Raney The Holly Driver Team (501) 765-0455

Megan Seyler The Holly Driver Team (501) 317-9472

Tracy Norwood (501) 515-2081

Mitsy Tharp (501) 944-7147

READY TO MOVE

teamerage

/tēm(ə)rij/

Definition of Teamerage:

Noun: a group of workers forming one side

Verb: come together as a team to leverage maximum advantage and achieve a common goal

At RE501 Realtor Partners, we work as a team, leveraging its key resource to meet our clients' goals. We are YOUR first choice TEAMERAGE for all things Residential Real Estate!

Selling Made Easy

Tips from the pros on how to spend your time—and hardearned money—before putting a house on the market

“The vast majority of our clients follow a simple guide of free or nearly free items that we use to maximize their potential value on the market. Some of these include declutter, de-personalize, and pack up 80% of your things. Clear all the surfaces, neutralize |paint colors, put in 3500K to 4000K light bulbs, and tighten all of the knobs and pulls around the house. Those are just a few little things that make a big difference.”

—RAY ELLEN, PIXEL PROPERTIES

“Staging is a wonderful idea for a vacant home, and taking care of all deferred maintenance is super important. Try to make your home as fresh, clean, and neutral as possible.”

—SUSAN REYNOLDS, THE JANET JONES COMPANY

“When making any updates to sell, always ask yourself: Will this appeal to the broader market? You are not making these updates for yourself, but rather to enhance appeal and bring top dollar for your home. Include your trusted real estate advisor in the process. They should know what buyers are wanting and expecting in a home in your area.”

—ROBERT KLEIN, THE PROPERTY GROUP

“Keep in mind that some renovations do not give a dollar-for-dollar return. For example, spending $15,000 to update flooring or windows will improve market appeal and how a home looks, but may not boost your listing price by the same amount. Don’t underestimate the value in thorough cleaning and cleaning out! Focus on decluttering, deep cleaning, and freshening up any peeling or scuffed painted surfaces.”

—PATTI REED, CENTURY 21 UNITED

“Make sure everything’s in normal working order. Once you get an offer, a buyer is going to do an inspection; so if you’ve got issues, you’ll want to eliminate those. The first thing is repairs, then updates. And a good agent can help guide you through every step of the way.”

—STACI MEDLOCK, RE/MAX ELITE

“I often tell clients that a little sprucing or staging can go a long way! Many think, ‘Why should I paint if the buyers are just going to repaint it anyway?’ What we are trying to accomplish is to have buyers visualize living in that space. Any efforts we can make to have the home look like a model home, the better. $500 spent can sometimes save you $5,000 in offers!”

—MITSY THARP, SIGNATURE PROPERTIES

Brandy Harp

Founded in 1994, Jon Underhill Real Estate is a full-service firm distinguished by its longstanding reputation and commitment to deliver unparalleled customer service to clients. As the firm’s principal broker, Brandy Harp provides an exceptional customer experience to ensure clients succeed with their real estate investments. She is particularly passionate about helping clients earn the highest price for their home, from analyzing the results of her sales and marketing strategies. “I believe that each home has a special story to tell, including unique features and its floor plan,” she says. “It’s extremely important to prepare each home for sale to ensure the home shows its very best.” First, she advises sellers to consider the exterior of the home, encouraging them to “ensure the exterior has an HGTV curb appeal.”

“Additional improvements worth considering are the condition and appearance of the roof, garage doors, and landscaping,” she says. “When a buyer enters the front door of your home, they form an important first impression. Besides touching up paint, efforts to declutter countertops, closets, and drawers to show off the home’s storage make a positive difference. Last but not least, have the home professionally cleaned—including carpets. Small improvements to ensure the most important rooms show beautifully deliver the best results!”

The Hutcherson Team

As The Hutcherson Team, Amy and Matt Hutcherson have over 25 years of combined experience in real estate and assist in all transaction types—including residential, land, and commercial. They both exemplify a strong work ethic, honesty, integrity, and professionalism in their field. “I focus on residential and land transactions while Matt is focused on commercial,” Amy says, noting she has a passion for her business that makes her an outstanding promoter, advisor, and negotiator. In addition to real estate sales,

The Hutcherson Team also provides full-service property management through Hutcherson Property Management Group. “We work with clients from start to finish to create viable real estate portfolios that allow them to incorporate a passive income into their finances,” Amy says. With a transaction coordinator and marketing assistant, The Hutcherson Team is equipped with a full team of support staff able to execute seamless transactions and elevate promotion of listings.

Photo by Meredith Mashburn

Amy and Matt Hutcherson

Patti Reed Sales Agent, Owner

Jason

Pictured left to right:

Trey Clifton

As a residential sales specialist for Arkansas Land & Realty, Trey Clifton’s dedication to client experience sets his business apart. “I pride myself on a genuine and transparent approach,” he says. With a background in property management and interest in interior design, Trey is uniquely suited to his work. “I love to offer my clients staging go-tos when getting ready to list and help them look past easily remedied cosmetic

12521 Kanis Road, Little Rock 501.298.7596

@trey_sells_central_ar

issues to envision what a home could be,” he says.

Trey is also involved in improving his community. “I have a true passion for Little Rock’s historic districts and hope to expand awareness about historical structures in need of preservation and restoration,” he says. He also teamed up with Graham Smith Construction for the Gives Back initiative, in which the two companies join forces for outreach.

SERVICE AREAS ACCOLADES

Central Arkansas, from new construction neighborhoods (Midtown Bryant, Copper Run, and Woodlands Park) to historic districts downtown.

2023 Diamond Award from the Little Rock Realtors Association. 12.5 million in sales in first 9 months of starting in real estate.

Urban Cottage Realty

Specializing in residential, commercial, leasing, and property management, Urban Cottage Realty has grown from one agent with $200K in sales to a five-agent firm with $24M in sales in just five years. Each member of the Urban Cottage Realty team is known for their availability and flexibility. “No matter the cost of the home, every client deserves our attention to detail and the confidence that we are with them every step of the way, far beyond closing,” says principal Gina Swanson. Working at Urban

Cottage empowers agents to fuel their own business, allowing them the freedom of self management yet still receive the benefits of education, training, and mentorship from the company’s principal and executive broker. “This streamlines the buying or selling process for our clients,” Gina says. “Our success is evident in the constant repeat clients and pool of referrals we receive.”

Urban Cottage Realty also has a dedicated property management director with a significant portfolio of homes.

Photo by Meredith Mashburn

Front Row: Margaret King, Debbie Teague, Dawn Scott, Sarah Beth Lowe, Donna Dailey, Shannon Treece Back Row: Shawn Clark, Jennifer McCarty, Susan Reynolds, Bob Bushmiaer, Casey Jones, Catherine Langley, Conley Golden, Kevin Newcomb

BUYER’ S GUIDE

What to know before you get ready to buy a house

“Before you begin your real estate search, get with a mortgage banker and get pre-approved for financing. It will help you narrow your search, and will also make your offer stronger when it’s time for your Realtor to submit to a seller.”

—JANET JONES, THE JANET JONES COMPANY

“With limited inventory, it can be a challenging real estate market. So when you find a home you like, don’t wait—make an offer. Do you want to miss out on a home because you didn’t think it was a good deal to pay $5,000 more for a home you loved, then settle for a ‘good deal’ on a home you kind of like? If this is the home that you are going to live your life in, buy a home you love. Life is too short to live somewhere you don’t love.”

—RAY ELLEN, PIXEL PROPERTIES

“Seek out an experienced, aggressive lender to get you pre-approved and guide you through the mortgage process. We train all of our agents to refer buyers to a reputable lender for pre-approval before they set an appointment to tour a home. In order to serve a buyer to the best of our ability, we must know their budget and type of loan, as well as the wish list of characteristics in a home.”

—CYNTHIA MEADOWS, SOUTHERN REALTY GROUP

“Talk to a lender and set your budget, which will help eliminate potential heartbreak down the road. Then start looking! See what’s available in your price range, then make a list of wants and needs; that list changes throughout the process, but it’s good to have a general idea of what’s most important to you, whether that’s a fenced-in backyard for a dog or a certain school district.”

—STACI MEDLOCK, RE/MAX ELITE

Dennis Adkins, Owner

Jennifer Adkins, Owner

MARKET PREDICTIONS

Insight from local agents on the current state of the housing industry

“Being the optimist that I am, I always believe it’s a good time to buy or sell a home. Interest rates are higher than they were for a while, but are still at a great rate compared to interest rates through the years. Prices are always appreciating in our area and real estate is always the best investment.”

—JANET JONES, THE JANET JONES COMPANY

“We all know after the last couple of years in the real estate market that it’s almost impossible to predict what is coming around the corner. However, we do think with interest rates stabilizing and inventory continuing to be low, the market will continue to stay strong.”

—ASHLEE ALLEN, SOUTHERN REALTY GROUP

“Real estate in central Arkansas has been the best investment over the years, and I believe it will continue to be. The market is leveling out a bit and will become more even for buyers in the coming year. Interest rates will settle between 5-6% and continue to be at a reasonable level.”

—SUSAN REYNOLDS, THE JANET JONES COMPANY

“Units sold will continue to drop but sale prices will remain strong here locally. In the South the market outlook is trending better than the rest of the country. We’re leaning into it and continuing to spend on marketing and looking for every way possible to solve our client’s problems and put them in the best position possible.”

—ROBERT KLEIN, THE PROPERTY GROUP

Owners: Cynthia Meadows & Ashlee Allen srgeldorado.com | 870.881.9011

SERVING ALL OF SOUTH ARKANSAS Aricka Harris Finger Realtor

MOTHER/DAUGHTER REALTOR TEAM

Emily Richards

Emily Richards’ work can get pretty messy. As an instructor and manager at The Muddy Pig, a pottery wheel studio in Little Rock, her typical day might include teaching private lessons, leading group classes, or trimming, glazing, and firing pieces made by studio members. It’s a job that requires her to get her hands dirty in the most literal sense—like, clay under the fingernails and splattered on clothes kind of dirty. But it’s all part of an ancient craft she finds joy in both following and teaching.

Her own path to ceramics was accidental. While at Arkansas State University, she chose a degree in studio art with an emphasis in painting and drawing, then signed up for the requisite ceramics class. And then she took another, and another, and another, until she had enough credits for an emphasis in ceramics, too. She found she had fallen in love with the medium’s limitless possibilities. “When you’re working on a canvas, it feels like, this is your space. But when you have a ball of clay, you get to make literally anything,” she says. “It’s way more freeing. And it feels less permanent during the process. At any point, you can squish it and start over.”

When she’s not teaching others and managing the

studio, Emily finds time for herself at the wheel. Her current work showcases a penchant for precision, with fine lines unfurling as flowers and vines around the curve of hand-thrown vases. She first sketches out a design in pencil, which will disappear in the high heat of the kiln, then goes over it in liner glaze for an effect that resembles pen and ink on paper. Painting directly onto the bisque—clay that’s been fired once but not yet glazed—accentuates the delicate details. She uses colored glazes as an accent around the lip of each vessel and inside, making them water-tight and functional, before a final firing.

While vases are her favorite thing to throw, Emily concedes she’s not always sure what that 3-pound lump of clay will turn into when she first wets the wheel and starts shaping it. “At a private lesson recently I told the student, ‘You need to listen because the clay will talk to you. It will tell you what it wants to be,’” she says. “Sometimes it wants to be a bowl, sometimes it wants to be a vase. But if you get good enough, you can start to control it and you get to tell it what you’re going to make.” See more of Emily’s work on Instagram (@emilyrichards_art), and sign up for one of her classes at muddypigstudio.com.

Floral vases by Emily Richards Glazed stoneware

Written by Stephanie Maxwell Newton. Photos by Rett Peek