Online Editor Laura LaRue laura@athomearkansas.com
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From the Editor
What a difference a year can make. Here’s an example: We photograph the features for the March issue several seasons in advance, so when I look at the spread from “Vacation Inspiration” (page 46), I see myself there, waddling around the pool, hand on my big belly. It was my last photo shoot before maternity leave. These days, my daughter is babbling, rolling over, all smiles, and almost sitting up on her own—even though that photo shoot seems like just yesterday!
As you look at your long list of to-dos outside, I encourage you to think about your goal for this time next year. We’ve been putting off redoing the landscaping in our front yard because it seems like such a huge undertaking; the time never seems right to rip it all up and start fresh. But if we start now, by this time next year we’ll be enjoying the fruits of our labor. What’s on your garden to-do list? I hope this issue gives you the inspiration and encouragement to see it to fruition.
Reader Responses
“Just a quick note to tell you the current issue of At Home in Arkansas is incredible. That house in Benton… oh my! I love every single detail in that home. The other two featured homes were lovely as well. Great job!”
— CATHY P. VIA EMAIL
Latest
Jenny and Dave Marrs, stars of HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous, are working to bring a second location of their retail store, Marrs Mercantile, to downtown Bentonville. Dubbed Marrs on Main , the shop will offer gifts and home goods with a focus on local, vintage, and artisanmade products, much like their flagship store in Centerton. The team hopes to have doors open to the public this spring. Marrs on Main will be located at 111 S. Main St. Follow along on Instagram (@marrsonmain) for updates.
Countertop World has been specializing in stone fabrication and installation since opening its Bryant location in 2017. Now, owner David McDougall has expanded his company to Rogers with a showroom and studio at 1706 W. Commerce St. Like the central Arkansas location, the new showroom will be equipped with the industry’s latest possibilities, such as digital templating and visualization technology, as well as additional products including tile, flooring, and plumbing fixtures. Visit countertopworldar.com for hours and more information.
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, and Pinterest (@athomearkansas).
Want to hear more about what’s in each issue? Tune in to KARK’s Arkansas Style as editorin-chief Stephanie Maxwell Newton goes in depth with host Nichole Niemann about the month’s features. Arkansas Style airs weekdays at 2 p.m. on Channel 4 (and online at kark.com/arkansas-style). Follow At Home in Arkansas on social media (@athomearkansas) for updates on Stephanie’s upcoming appearances.
Photos by Rett
Peek
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Pink glass vase. Providence Design, Little Rock PROVIDENCELTDDESIGN.COM
“Ruffle” glass vase in Smoke. Studio West, Little Rock SHOPSTUDIOWEST.COM
Gold striped blown-glass vase and blue vase. Bear Hill Interiors, Little Rock 501.907.9272
1 “Spring Flower” porcelain vases. Debi Davis Interior Design, Little Rock DEBIDAVISINTERIORDESIGN.COM
2 “Reja Vase n. 4,” stoneware and glaze piece by Ana Buitrago. MIXD Gallery, Rogers MIXD.ART
3 Hand-blown iridescent striped vase. Tipton & Hurst, Little Rock TIPTONHURST.COM
1 Kingsley Bate “Normandy” distressed teak chair and ottoman in an antiqued finish.
2 Summer Classics “Dahlia” pillow in Slate.
11 “Prescott” outdoor light from Summer Classics.
4 “Dawson” wall-mount lantern from Hinkley.
10 Bergs Potter “Kobenhavner” scalloped-edge container.
Local Retailers
9 Lloyd Flanders “All Seasons” settee swing with padded seat in Honey.
8 Surya “Barbados” rug.
5 “Haley” bench from Summer Classics.
6 “Traverse” bar cart by
7 Dog stoneware vase.
1 Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com 2, 5 & 11 Ninth and Co., ninthandcompany.com; Southern Loft, mysouthernloft.com 3 & 7 The Good Earth Garden Center, thegoodearthgarden.com 4 Encore Building Products, encoregroupusa.com; Ferguson Plumbing Supply, ferguson.com; GW Lighting & Home, gwlightingandhome.com; J&B Supply, jandbsupply.com; Lighting Emporium, lightingemporium.com; Light Innovations, light-innovations.com; Sanders Supply, shopsanders.com; TEC Electric, tecelectric.com 6 & 9 Congo Fireplace & Patio, congofp.com; Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com 8 Available to the trade. 10 Botanica Gardens, botanicagardens.com
3 Metal globe topiary. March 2025 | athomearkansas.com
Lloyd Flanders.
8 “Instinct” outdoor pillow in Caramel, by Elaine
Kingsley Bate “La Jolla” powdercoated aluminium arm chair.
1 Surya “Eagean” rectangular rug.
7 “Birch Petal” outdoor pillow in Pink from Summer
Local Retailers
2 “Fisher” cast stone dining table by Summer Classics.
10 Contemporarystyle planter.
3 “Goson” wallmount light by Kichler.
Modern Lanai
5 Loloi “Rainier” collection indoor/ outdoor rug.
6 “Avalon” sofa from Summer Classics.
Hudson Valley Lighting “Zephyr”
1 Available to the trade. 2, 6 & 7 Ninth and Co., ninthandcompany.com; Southern Loft, mysouthernloft.com 3 Hambuchen Lighting, hambuchenlighting.com; Home, Holidays and More, 870.569.8037; Light Innovations, light-innovations.com; Sanders Supply, shopsanders.com; TEC Electric, tecelectric.com 4 Design 1, lumber1.com; GW Lighting & Home, gwlightingandhome.com; H3 Home Decor, h3homedecor.com; J&B Supply, jandbsupply.com; Kaufman By Design West, kaufmanlumber.com; Lighting Emporium, lightingemporium.com; The Lamp Outlet, thelampoutlet.com; TEC Electric, tecelectric.com 5 Abide Furniture, abidefurniture.net; Cantrell Furniture Design Center, cantrellfurniture.com; Lighting Emporium, lightingemporium.com 8 Ninth and Co., ninthandcompany.com 9 Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com 10 Botanica Gardens, botanicagardens.com
Classics.
Smith.
Images courtesy of vendors
Dialed-Up Chic
Leslie
streamlines a west Little Rock kitchen while leveling up its style
WRITER & STYLIST TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK
Designer
Tetrev
Leslie Tetrev happened to be on the other end of the line when this west Little Rock homeowner called Kitchen & Bath Ideas to inquire about a kitchen renovation. As fate would have it, the two were an instant match, hitting it off and sharing a vision for updating the room’s flow and look.
Several goals were at the top of the project's priority list: removing a wall that separated the kitchen and dining room, repositioning the dishwasher and refrigerator, and maintaining a central island for prep work and meals. In the process, the client also wanted to clean up the style. “There was a lot going on in such a small space,” Leslie notes.
The designer went to the drawing board and came back with a plan that checked all of those boxes. For example,
she traded a rarely used double oven (housed in the wall between the kitchen and dining room) for a range that fit into the same placement as the previous cooktop and works seamlessly with the existing vent. The new refrigerator, a counter-depth model that doesn’t impede traffic flow, was relocated to the opposite side of the room, while the dishwasher is now on the same bank of cabinetry as the sink. In the middle of it all, the rectangular island has storage and workspace along with room for three to dine.
The home dates back to 1969 and the owner has a penchant for midcentury modern style. However, she didn’t want to go overboard with those elements, choosing to play on this with the backsplash design and lighting. “I felt like the light wood and slab-style cabinetry were musts to make this look transitional,” Leslie says. “The room doesn’t have any one style but goes so well with the rest of the house.” Additionally, floating shelves along the sink wall provide a place to display personal elements and cookbooks.
With cooking and feeding others being a passion of the homeowner’s, she couldn’t be more pleased with the end result Leslie produced. “I love how it all came together; I won’t call anyone else for design work,” she adds.
“I had ideas, but Leslie was able to bring them to life.”
—homeowner
1
HONE YOUR STYLE
Drawn to its rich veining, the homeowner selected an “Oyster White” marble slab from Triton Stone Group. “When you are going to have marble long-term, it’s much easier to maintain when honed,” Leslie notes.
2
MEET YOUR MATTE
A single-basin sink with a pulldown faucet was a must-have on the owner’s wish list. Opting for contrast against the hardware, she and Leslie selected Delta’s “Mateo” faucet in Matte Black.
3
GO ORGANIC
Speaking to the room’s more contemporary elements, the white-washed white oak cabinetry has a horizontal grain orientation. It pairs with slightly free-form Champagne Bronze hardware from Belwith & Keeler’s “Pebble” collection.
4
GET IN SHAPE
The “Eclipse” ceramic backsplash from Red Rock Tileworks is based on the phases of the moon. Leslie and the homeowner selected triangles in different hues to fill the spaces around the main oblong tiles and to add to the palette.
MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME
Comes the Sun
Inspired by the color yellow, event designer JoBeth McElhanon creates a brunch that radiates happiness
“Kendall has this 1960s elegance about her, and I wanted to create a collected table setting that reflected that.”
—JoBeth McElhanon, event designer
Sometimes you have to make your own sunshine. With the gray days of winter looming outside her windows, JoBeth McElhanon, the chief celebrations officer at local wedding and event planning company Lilias & Olive, imagined brighter days ahead—and so did her clients. As newlyweds, Kendall and Derek Middleton were eager to host friends and family, and a Sunday brunch seemed like the perfect way to shake the winter blues.
Working with the couple on their wedding, JoBeth learned yellow was one of Kendall's favorite colors. “It gave me a fondness for yellow that I really haven’t had in a while,” she says. This sunny hue, along with Kendall’s home state of California, were the starting points for the brunch scheme— from the table linens to the flowers and food.
Particularly inspired by Kendall’s hometown of Fresno, the menu features fresh citrus, avocados, and almonds—all of which are plentiful in the region. “The colors are fresh and springy, and I wanted the menu to speak to that as well with a really bright palette,” JoBeth says. “I’m always going to
approach an event with what it looks like and what it will taste like, but also how the food will look on the plate,” she adds.
Simplicity was another key element. “If you’re hosting in your home, you don’t want it to be stressful,” JoBeth says. The chicken salad from this menu can be prepared the day before; same for the strata, which you can bake that morning. The grapefruit and mimosas require minimal time, giving you the opportunity to catch up with guests and enjoy your own gathering. “It’s a very approachable brunch that can be pulled together quickly,” she says,
While this was their first party in their new home, JoBeth was thinking about a tradition they could establish yearly. To this point, she sourced vintage tableware, embroidered floral napkins with their surname initial, and mixed pieces of their new glassware with heirloom-worthy finds. “Kendall has this 1960s elegance about her, and I wanted to create a collected table setting that reflected that,” she says. “And, since yellow is a color that can go from March to September, you could easily recreate this for a Mother’s Day or graduation party.”
A BIT OF SUNSHINE
Little Rock’s Norwood Day Floral Company designed the centerpiece, incorporating hydrangeas, lisianthus, garden roses, and tulips along with sprigs of fresh rosemary and lemons. “It’s a really fresh—and fragrant—centerpiece,” JoBeth notes.
IN WRITING
Mattie Vondran with MV Design Co. put JoBeth’s vision on paper, creating an invitation as well as an individual place card and menu for each guest. “Mattie is a former wedding client with an eye for clean, fun invitation and party paper designs,” JoBeth says.
JUST THE SETTING
JoBeth sourced a vintage Spode pattern, appropriately named “Buttercup,” for the celebration. Rattan flatware contrasts with the yellow tablecloth, while a mix of simple and etched glassware speak to the couple’s love of classic pieces. A napkin made from a micro-floral Liberty fabric was embroidered with an “M” medallion by The Mommagrammer.
ALL IN GOOD TASTE
From a simple carmelized grapefruit, made with sugar and a blowtorch, to the Curried Chicken Salad with grapes, almonds, and California golden raisins, each element of the menu brings its own bit of sunshine to the table. Playing off the yellow as well as the citrus tucked into the floral arrangement, JoBeth put a spin on traditional mimosas with a frozen, fizzing libation made with a scoop of lemon sorbet and champagne.
Visit the At Home in Arkansas blog in March for JoBeth’s Curried Chicken Salad recipe, and follow her on Instagram (@liliasandolive) for more inspiration.
Almond Strata SHOP
6 large croissants
8 eggs, lightly beaten 2 cups sugar
3 cups half and half
1 tablespoon amaretto
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup almond paste, cut into small pieces
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted berries, for serving
PREPARE
Preheat the oven to 350°F Cut the croissants crosswise into 1/2 -inch-thick slices. Butter a 9-x13-inch baking pan and place the smaller pieces in first, and then arrange the larger slices on top. Combine the eggs and sugar in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Add half and half, amaretto, and vanilla. Mix well. Pour over croissant slices and sprinkle with almond paste. Press down with a spoon to submerge the bread completely. Let stand at room temp for 10 minutes. Sprinkle the almonds over the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Serve warm or at room temp with fresh berries of your choice.
A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
SUMMER GUIDE PLANNING
Get ahead of those summer bucket lists with ideas around Arkansas—including recommendations from the state’s travel maven herself, Sarah Heer (aka @ArkieTravels)
MEET SARAH HEER
Sarah Heer is the award-winning founder and chief creator of Arkie Travels (@arkietravels), an Instagram account and travel blog showcasing all there is to love about The Natural State.
HOMETOWN BRYANT
HOME BASE
If you have little ones keen to learn about concepts such as geology, electricity, and outer space, head to MID-AMERICA SCIENCE MUSEUM (midamericamuseum.org) in Hot Springs. “This museum should be at the top of everyone's Arkansas bucket list!” Sarah says. “I remember taking field trips here as a kid, and I love seeing the evolution of the experience alongside some of the more nostalgic activities. Summer is the perfect time to go see the outdoor activities, like the Skywalk, and be on the lookout for prehistoric creatures in the DinoTrek.”
With 14 libraries across Little Rock and beyond, CENTRAL ARKANSAS LIBRARY SYSTEM (cals.org) is the area’s go-to for bookworms young and old. Escape the heat with a trip to your local branch to curl up with a beloved bestseller and check their online calendar for ongoing special events, such as cooking classes, book clubs, toddler storytime, and so much more. “I'm a huge fan of books in all shapes, sizes, and categories, both fiction and nonfiction,” Sarah says. “My mom passed her love of books on to me, and we still enjoy sharing titles with each other. My favorite thing about the Main Library in the River Market (which will reopen later this year) is that they have soundproof office spaces, which are perfect for podcast recording.”
Across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
ROAD TRIP PLAYLIST
WHATEVER STATION WILL COME IN WHEN I ’ M OFF THE BEATEN PATH!
Follow Sarah at Instagram.com/arkietravels.
Located outside Eureka Springs, TURPENTINE CREEK WILDLIFE REFUGE (turpentinecreek.org) has provided sanctuary for rescued big cats (and other wildlife!) for three decades. The 459-acre facility is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, meaning you can trust that the animals in its care are treated ethically and with the highest standards. “Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge holds such a special place in my heart because I'm a cat lady, but also because their rescue efforts have helped over 500 animals,” Sarah says. “And if you're into cats like I am, you can even stay on property in one of their Safari Suites, Tree Houses, or Glamping Tents—or sign up for a private Carnivore Caravan Tour.”
Photo by Lucy Baehr and courtesy of Sarah Heer
Looking for an adventure off the beaten path? Sarah recommends chasing WATERFALLS IN JOHNSON COUNTY.
“Just head to Clarksville and put ‘waterfall’ in your map app. You're going to love what pops up!” she says. “There are hikes for every ability, and some waterfalls are even visible from the road.” A few of her favorites include Wanderlust Falls, Haw Creek Falls, and High Bank Twin Falls. While in the area, Sarah says not to miss Oark General Store, an Arkansas treasure and the state’s oldest general store. “They're known for their burgers, and the pie is divine.”
Music lovers, mark your calendars now for upcoming concerts at the WALMART AMP (amptickets.com) in Rogers. Fans of country stars Thomas Rhett (playing the AMP on June 5), Luke Bryan (June 19), and Jason Aldean (July 18) should look into booking accommodations now to make a weekend of exploring everything the region has to offer. Also keep an eye on the AMP’s sister venue, Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, for special events, which are Sarah’s favorites. “From show-themed cocktail classes, to local artist gallery showings, to Winter Nights in December with giant snow globes, there's fun for all ages. It's well worth the trip if you’re not local to Northwest Arkansas,” she says.
Your Northwest Arkansas live music destination!
APRIL 11
Treaty Oak Revival
APRIL 27
RÜFÜS DU SOL with Sofia Kourtesis
MAY 2
SESSANTA V 2.0: Primus, Puscifer, A Perfect Circle
MAY 3
Staind + Breaking Benjamin with Wage War and Lakeview
MAY 16
Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas
MAY 17
Nate Bargatze
JUNE 5
Thomas Rhett with Tucker Wetmore & The Castellows
JUNE 14
Bailey Zimmerman with Dylan Marlowe and Drew Baldridge
One of Sarah’s favorites is the state’s own WINE COUNTRY in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley. “Head to Altus for the day to enjoy free or low-cost tastings at beautiful wineries, and take a stroll through the grapes for an Insta-worthy photo,” she says. Check out Mount Bethel Winery, Post Winery, or Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, then head to another one of Sarah’s must-trys: Alligator Rays, a New Orleansthemed restaurant with real Louisiana roots. “This Cajuninspired hidden gem will have your tastebuds singing! My favorites are the Oysters Orleans and the Mardi Gras Seafood Pasta,” she says.
JULY 19
Goo Goo Dolls with Dashboard Confessional
AUG 3
“Weird Al” Yankovic with Puddles Pity Party
AUG 13
Papa Roach x Rise Against with special guest Underoath
Scan here for Johnson County’s official waterfall guide.
Get your hands dirty and you might just get lucky at (arkansasstateparks.com), one of the country’s few diamond-bearing sites accessible to the public. “Have I ever found a diamond at Crater of Diamonds State Park? No, but I keep going back!” Sarah laughs. “I hear the best time to find one is right after a rain, and you can spot them just sitting on top of the dirt.” She also recommends checking out the trail on the backside of the park. “You can even bring your tent or RV and camp there.”
Crowley’s Ridge is a geological formation rising from the flat, low landscape of Northeast Arkansas, and CROWLEY'S RIDGE STATE PARK (arkansasstateparks.com), located in Paragould, is a perfect jumping off point to explore this unique part of the state. Sarah recommends seeking out the swinging bridge on Dancing Rabbit Trail, taking a pedal boat safari ($12 per ticket), and enjoying the swimming beach. “There are also several trails that offer a look at the ecology of Crowley's Ridge, including a peaceful boardwalk around the lake,” she says. “And if you happen to catch it when the historic pump is on, you'll see a beautiful waterfall down the hillside.”
Shine bright with statement-making jewelry from Arkansas retailers
Abstract cross necklace in gold vermeil by French designer Louise Hendricks, $172-200 (available in three sizes). Box Turtle, Little Rock SHOPBOXTURTLE.COM
Vahan pavé diamond shell-tipped cuff bracelet with 14K gold and sterling silver, $15,040. The Smith Jewelry & Living, Fort Smith THESMITHONLINE.COM
Makhala mixed-metal, double link necklace with diamond lobster claw and detachable charms, $1,645 (pieces are interchangeable and can be sold separately). BC2, Little Rock SHOPBC2.COM
Julie Vos “Bloom” statement necklace, $375. Home, Holidays and More, Batesville 870.569.8037
“Bead Party” diamond and 14K gold necklace by Adina Reyter, $1,595. Box Turtle, Little Rock SHOPBOXTURTLE.COM
Photos
(BC2) by Rett Peek and courtesy of vendors
The Garden House
The seed for Traci and Steve Burges’ garden house was planted with a trio of floor-to-ceiling windows purchased for the sum of $8. “We have an auction here in Mountain Home, and Steve buzzed in one night and bought all three giant windows,” Traci says. Too good to pass up, yet unsure of how or when they would use them, the couple began to formulate a plan after a storm took down several full-grown arbor vitae on their property. “I said, What about coming back with a garden shed? And he said, Sure, I’ll use the windows,” Traci recalls.
Having worked as a real estate agent and homebuilder, Steve has a knack for projects that pair with Traci’s design eye. They put these talents to use in their main house on the farm where Traci grew up, which was featured in the November 2018 issue of At Home in Arkansas. Thus, an equally enchanting outdoor space felt like a natural next step to take advantage of their surrounding landscape. Initially, Traci planned to use the shed for potting seasonal
containers and bringing ferns and other plants indoors during winter weather. But the plan grew as she envisioned a floor constructed of pavers, a bank of cabinetry with a farmhouse sink, and plenty of decorative touches that reflect her personal style. “Steve is so sweet; anything I ask for, he will build it,” she says, noting the shed’s vaulted ceiling and trusses as well as the exposed shiplap. The purpose of the structure also evolved, with the Burgeses using the heated and cooled space for drinks and snacks after a swim in the nearby pool or for morning coffee with a view. “It started looking super cute,” Traci says, “and I realized it was too nice to be a potting shed, so we call it ‘the garden house.’”
For the Burgeses, working on the project was almost as much fun as enjoying the fruits of their labor. “I think style is one of those things you either really have or you don’t. There are a lot of things I can’t do, but I can walk into a room and immediately think, This needs to be moved or this should go here; it’s almost innate,” Traci says. “Steve and I both enjoy this so much. It’s in our blood to make a project great.” AH
Adjacent to the main house, the garden house’s three fulllength windows bring in plenty of natural light. Adirondack chairs, aptly positioned under a tree and near blooming hydrangeas, offer a shaded respite for sipping lemonade.
OPEN DOOR POLICY
The bulk of the couple’s gardening work, such as repotting containers and arranging fresh-cut blooms, takes place at the potting bench near the garden house entrance. The iron bench once belonged to Traci’s grandmother. “It sat on her porch for as long as I can remember,” she says of the equally sentimental and functional piece.
FOR THE BIRDS
Traci’s newfound love of birdwatching is encouraged by a bluebird house staked in the garden. “I have so much more of an appreciation for nature at this point in my life,” she says. While classic boxwoods hedge much of the space and hydrangeas create a flowering garden, she also enjoys growing herbs along with heirloom and cherry tomatoes in the space near her kitchen.
“Hydrangeas are kind of my thing. We have hundreds of them in the summer.”
—Traci Burges, homeowner
CUTE AND COZY
The oak table centered on the windows was a purchase the couple made as newlyweds. It served as their dining table for years before they passed it along to their children who painted and repainted it. Using oven cleaner, a sandblaster, and a little elbow grease, they restored its natural finish, allowing it to make a reappearance in the garden house. It pairs with slipcovered chairs Traci picked up at a local flea market and drapery panels made from painting dropcloths and a plumbing pipe-turned-curtain rod. Fresh-cut hydrangea blooms are a staple of the space during their season. “Hydrangeas are kind of my thing. We have hundreds of them in the summer,” Traci says.
TREASURE TROVE
With a passion for shopping flea markets and roadside stores, Traci and Steve never discount a stop. “We like to hunt for treasures; it was one of the first things we enjoyed doing as a couple,” Traci says, adding that she always opts for something with a story over a new version. The painting hanging on the mullion is a bucolic landscape found at a Prairie Grove antique store and given an update with a repainted frame. Avianinspired books and decor are dotted throughout the room.
WORK ZONE
A farmhouse sink and bridge faucet create a station for watering small plants or snack prep. The Burgeses painted the cabinetry a sky-inspired shade of blue and stained the wood countertop. When Traci found the painting that now hangs above the sink, it was covered with a thick film. “I had a feeling I could clean it up, and now it’s one of my favorite pieces,” she says of the $10 steal. The peg rack seen at one end was picked up at the local auction, while Traci and her daughter-in-law found the garden tote on a trip to Rosemary Beach.
A bounty of hydrangeas along with colorful begonias and potted geraniums line the walkway to the home's front entrance. Daniel notes the furniture selections tie the porch to the interiors, creating a welcoming space that feels like an outdoor foyer.
Branching Out
After an interior renovation, a Fayetteville couple turns to Daniel Keeley to follow suit outdoors
WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST HOPE JOHNSTONE
With some children leaving the nest and others joining the family through marriage, the owners of this home realized the time had come to update—both indoors and out.
As the interior projects drew to a close, they evaluated their backyard. “We began to realize everything looked dated,” the homeowner says. “We also needed space to grow. Not only are we adding sons-in-law, but we all have cats and dogs; it’s a crowd when we get together,” she says.
Having seen landscape designer Daniel Keeley’s work in previous issues of At Home in Arkansas, they contacted him to help with the transformation. “I think part of the motivation for the project was to encourage their children to come home and to have this fabulous place they can enjoy when they do,” Daniel says.
The DK Design team had the ability to envision an updated layout and redefined spaces, which enhanced the couple’s original ideas tenfold. Prior to Daniel coming on board, the owners had begun the process of relocating an awkwardly placed pool house to the opposite end of the pool to allow for better views. Daniel built off of this
placement, orienting a fountain and walkway to physically connect this space to the rest of the backyard’s retreat areas while also implementing cues for the same visual effect.
To give the family room to spread out and enjoy different areas of the backyard, the design team created a destination firepit that’s ideal for chilly nights under the stars. Along the back of the house, three lounge areas give options for relaxation: an open-air conversation area, a covered porch complete with a daybed swing, and a screened porch, which has a dining table that is frequently used for games. “Everything evolved as we began the project,” the homeowner says. “The screened porch was not even on the original drawing but after walking around one night, we added it.”
All of the spaces are united with a classic style that adheres to the home’s Southern feel and the rural setting. For example, Daniel opted for materials like natural stone, stained woods, and gas lanterns that won’t appear dated over time. “We love how it turned out, and if we don’t ever have to update the space again, we’ll be thrilled,” the homeowner says. AH
BRIGHTER DAYS
“Pink is my favorite color, but I couldn’t splash a really bright shade everywhere,” the homeowner says. Because of the property’s spaciousness, Daniel saw this setting as an opportunity to push the envelope with cushions in what he calls a “corally pink hue” along with petunias and flowering redbuds that bring in true shades of pink. Daniel notes the redbud trees, which can provide a bit of a canopy in the open-air space, will thrive in the containers for years while the base plantings can be changed out seasonally.
GETTING WARMER
Positioned off the back of the house, the firepit’s stone surround repeats from the pool area. Here, a quartet of containers spill over with hydrangeas and seasonal plantings. Comfortable swivel chairs pull up to the round pit, while the surrounding low wall provides extra seating for a crowd.
PORCH TIME
Naps come easy on the covered porch’s daybed swing. Located off the home’s family room, this space serves an extension of the living area with comfortable furnishings and a palette of blue that is echoed indoors. “There’s a lot of multifunctional seating, and we went with heavy upholstery that will stand up to the elements,” Daniel notes.
“I love to sit out here and listen to the rain during a storm.”
—homeowner
UNWIND & DINE
Adjacent to the kitchen, the screened porch has become a favorite destination for meals when the couple is alone. As with the covered porch, Daniel played off the interior’s predominantly blue palette to create continuity between the spaces. Textured-stripe cushions and cast stone tables that are reminiscent of indoor furnishings bring visual interest.
With a dining table that can seat 10 comfortably as well as a conversation area centered on
is a welcoming respite.
BUBBLING OVER
Daniel transformed an iron vessel used in the sugar-making process into a working fountain. Centered on the pool house’s porch, it connects the structure to the landscape and surrounding spaces. Stone pavers create a pathway, while liriope adds interest around the water feature. “The flagstone accommodates a lot of different traffic patterns without using concrete,” Daniel notes.
the stone fireplace, the pool house porch
THE BUNK HOUSE
The relocated and redesigned pool house has been dubbed the bunk house. “Many of our children’s friends grew up sleeping over at our house, and it’s been fun to have them back to stay in the bunk house for wedding parties and showers,” the owner says. While its interior houses a full kitchen, laundry space, and sleeping quarters, the covered porch is also an almost year-round destination. “Even if there’s snow on the ground, we’ll use the outdoor kitchen and watch football around the fireplace,” the owner says.
Vacation Inspiration
In Little Rock, Eminent Terrain designs a beloved relaxation destination right outside a client’s back door
WRITER & STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON
PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK
What’s the next best thing to waking up at the beach? Feeling like you’re on vacation in your own backyard. That was the plan when the owners of this west Little Rock home decided to upgrade their outdoors into a multipurpose living space. “We’ve been vacationing in Rosemary Beach for about the past 16 years,” the owner says. “We’ve stayed in some fabulous homes while there, and one thing that they all had in common was that the backyards were surrounded by walls, creating a courtyard effect.”
Consisting of a plastic-lined pool, concrete surround, and block retaining wall, the home's backyard was ready for not only an aesthetic improvement, but a functional one as well. The owners' wish list included updates to the pool, hardscaping and landscaping improvements, a pavilion to provide covered seating, an outdoor kitchen, and, if space and budget allowed, a firepit.
It was with this vision in mind that the couple contacted Kristi Wright, landscape designer and owner of Eminent Terrain. “In our initial meeting, she told me what she was drawn to—and that was a new style for me,” Kristi says. “It’s very clean and modern, but also easy to maintain and functional.”
The designer started by drawing up the bounds of her clients’ new space to give the courtyard feel they remembered from their beach trips. She created a gated entrance from the driveway, then designated the area directly across from it for a newly constructed pavilion. “Your pedestrian access starts your design,” Kristi says, calling on both her formal education in landscape architecture and 20 years of experience owning her own business. “After that, I looked at where we might want a water feature, and started to think about layout in terms of the view from the house and the circulation and flow of traffic.”
An outdoor kitchen with easy access to the home’s interior and a centrally located firepit make for a cozy hangout almost year-round. Finally, an updated pool lining, coping, and surround make that feature of the backyard feel completely new. “We couldn’t believe our eyes when Kristi came back with absolutely everything we’d asked for and more,” the owner says. “We’d thrown a lot of requests at her, and she took them all into consideration in her design.” AH
COME ON IN
Concrete pavers and river rock create an eyepleasing French drain that helps direct water away from the backyard—an integral part of any outdoor plan, Kristi notes. “Function comes first in landscape architecture. It’s all about planning, construction, and drainage; plants are secondary,” she says. Stately asparagus ferns in concrete urns frame the approach.
MODERN UPGRADE
After removing dated elements of the existing pool, such as a metal ladder and diving board, Kristi designed a “lounge ledge” to create a sleek entrance for swimmers. On the opposite side of the pool, four loungers accented with green lumbar pillows provide a place for sunbathing with a view. “I wanted you to be able to see the pavilion, but also the rest of the action from there,” she says.
NATURAL WONDER
Three stone pillars make up a water feature that provides a focal point as well as soothing sounds. The pillars’ clean lines are juxtaposed with the natural-cut stone used to create them, reflecting the harmonious pairing of the natural world and contemporary design elements seen throughout the backyard.
A darker shade of pavers was used for the pool coping and also to delineate different zones of the backyard.
“My husband loves to grill, and having a functional space to do that was really important.”
—homeowner
GRILL ZONE
An outdoor kitchen equipped with two grills, a wine fridge, and storage makes feeding a crowd a breeze. “I tried to keep the cook in mind,” Kristi says, noting the area’s convenience to both the indoor kitchen and its position within the rest of the layout. “It’s not too isolated, and he can walk around both sides and still interact with people.” Cane-back barstools provide a place to perch while chatting with the cook or waiting for the next batch of burgers to come off the grill.
LONG-TERM & LUSH
Large container plantings punctuate the backyard with evergreen and seasonal color. In the center of the trio seen here is sky pencil holly, angelonia, sweet potato vine, and wave petunias. The pots on either side contain oakleaf hollies, which can stay in place several seasons before they need to be repotted. “I try to keep the plantings simple and pick things that don't need a lot of pruning to make the upkeep easy for my clients,” Kristi says.
GATHER TOGETHER
In the center of it all, a grouping of all-weather Adirondack chairs creates a cozy conversation area around a modern firepit. Its proximity to the pavilion, barstools, and a dining table under a nearby covered porch make this space perfect overflow seating when entertaining a crowd. Turf is a lowmaintenance option underfoot and breaks up the hardscaping with its vibrant green hue.
GOT IT COVERED
With the pavilion, Kristi selected materials and trim styles present in the home’s exterior for continuity in the design.
“That way it looks like it was always meant to be,” she says.
The pavilion’s back wall also brings additional privacy to the backyard, adding to its courtyard feel. A large fan and outdoor heaters make the space usable all four seasons of the year.
Outdoor furnishings from Ninth and Co. offer the same sense of sophistication seen indoors with the durability to withstand the elements.
Design Resources
LANDSCAPE DESIGN Kristi Wright, Eminent Terrain, Inc. ACCESSORIES AND FURNITURE Ninth and Co. BRICK AND STONE Antique Brick & Block, Bennett Brothers Stone on I-30 Inc., and Miller Stone COUNTERTOPS Countertop World FENCE Eagle Fence Distributing FIREPLACE
INSERT AND PLANTINGS River Valley Horticultural LIGHTING Keeling Company PAINTING
Certa Pro Painters of Central Arkansas POOL (LINING) Waterscapes by Nolan Pools TURF Arkansas Luxury Lawns and Greens
TRENDSETTERS
When it’s time to conquer your projects in the great outdoors, call on one of these pool and landscape professionals to get the job done
A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
Design by DK Design.
Photo by Rett
Peek
Better Lawns & Gardens
Whether you want to update your landscaping or plan for an outdoor living area, fireplace, kitchen, or pool, the team at Better Lawns & Gardens is ready to help. Founded in 2002, owner David Munsey, Jr., and his son David, III, work alongside a team of professionals equipped with the knowledge and
KNOWN FOR:
expertise to help achieve your dreams. “We work with our clients all the way from establishing a vision to design and execution of the project, and then we have the ability to follow up with a comprehensive property maintenance package if they want continued care,” David, III, says.
“We understand you
are trusting us with your money to create a dream space that is a reflection of your style—and we don’t take that lightly,” he adds. He also notes the team works hard to ensure there is good communication throughout a project and to provide you with a beautiful, built-to-last project you’ll enjoy for years to come.
LITTLE ROCK
Heavenly Hydrangeas
Want to try your thumb at cultivating these landscaping favorites?
Read these know-before-you-grow tips for three well-loved varieties
LIMELIGHT
Its official name is ‘Panicle’ hydrangea, but this cone-shaped variety (shown in images 1, 2, and 6) is nicknamed for its white to light green blooms that blossom in midsummer. This shrub can grow quite large—think up to 9 feet tall and 9 feet wide—and tolerate sun better than other varieties, as long as it’s well watered. At the end of summer, blooms fade to pink.
BIGLEAF
Rounded heads and vibrant colors are hallmarks of the ‘Bigleaf’ hydrangea (shown in images 4 and 5), which grows to a medium shrub size (about 4.5 feet tall and 5 feet wide) and blooms in shades of pink, blue, and purple, depending on the pH level of your soil. ‘Bigleaf’ hydrangeas bloom in early summer, and some varieties (like the ‘Endless Summer’ seen here) will flower multiple times in one season.
OAKLEAF
So-named for leaves that resemble those of an oak tree, the ‘Oakleaf’ hydrangea (shown in image 3) has dramatic cone-shaped blooms that appear early in the season (May or June). Like the ‘Limelight,’ it can tolerate more sun and its white blooms fade to pink after peak. This variety and the ‘Bigleaf’ should be pruned immediately after flowering.
Designscape
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
Designscape, founded in 2012 by Greg and Sarah Hiatt, is a full-service landscape company serving all of Northwest Arkansas. Specializing in landscape design, installation, and maintenance for both commercial and residential spaces, they prioritize highquality craftsmanship and ongoing care.
From the start, the team at Designscape collaborates with clients to create sustainable, personalized designs featuring natural stone and native plants, which will continue to improve over time. By using only in-house staff, Designscape ensures that every project meets the highest standards. After installation, they continue to follow up with ongoing maintenance to keep your project looking its best.
The team’s collective love for nature and appreciation for design and artistry drives their projects and allows them to address each client’s wants and needs equally. What’s more, their long history of repeat customers is indicative of the enduring relationships they strive to build with clients.
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
DK Design
For more than 25 years, Daniel Keeley and DK Design have been creating exquisite outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial clients throughout The Natural State and across the country. In an effort to blur the lines between indoors and out, DK Design merges functionality and beauty by designing exterior spaces that match their interior counterparts in terms of quality, comfort, and style.
As their motto “Live Outside the Box” suggests, the team not only encourages clients to enjoy living in
the spaces outside their homes and offices, but also to make those spaces personal, unique, and extraordinary. Overall, DK Design seeks to offer clients an improved lifestyle. “An outdoor living space is not just a collection of furniture; it is an intimate location for reading the paper, dining with family, or enjoying an evening cocktail,” Daniel says. “Likewise, a DK Design fine garden is not simply a landscaped yard, but rather a unique destination, the reason for a relaxing stroll, or the venue for an al fresco party.”
The Good Earth Garden Center has been bringing outdoor-living dreams to life since 1974. “Landscapes are natural extensions of our homes, and creating outdoor spaces that enhance the lives of each client’s family has been our honor for 50 years,” says landscape services coordinator Zak Grothe. Their team of experienced landscape architects and designers listen to each client’s dreams and carefully assesses the site to visualize all the possibilities. Then, knowledgeable project managers oversee the build
501-868-4666
process from beginning to end, ensuring their innovative designs are implemented thoughtfully. Their expertise in both the design and build aspects of landscaping results in outdoor spaces that flow from the home into the natural surroundings with graceful intent. When fitting, they enjoy incorporating indigenous stone to transform challenging topography into artful forms as well as accenting with outdoor lighting and water features. “We look forward to partnering with you!” Zak says.
thegoodearthgarden.com @thegoodearthgardencenter
LITTLE ROCK
Paradise Found
A poolside style for every personality
CONTEMPORARY CALM
RUSTIC ELEGANCE
NATURAL APPEAL PREPPY PANACHE
Design by Casey Sarkin Interior Design. Pool by Elite Pools by Aloha
Landscape design by DK Design. Pool by Seaside Pools
Photos by Nancy Nolan
(Preppy Panache) and Rett Peek
Landscape design by The Grey Barn. Spa by Luther Stem Pools & Spas
Landscape design by Better Lawns & Gardens. Pool by Elite Pools by Aloha. Interior design by Tobi Fairley Interior Design. Built by Richard Harp Homes
LITTLE ROCK
Diamond Pools
As owners of Diamond Pools, Shelly and Alan Matheny are veterans of the industry. They’ve been working in the design, maintenance, and retail operations of pools for 35 years, and their business—opened in 2008 and renamed Diamond Pools in 2017— has the reputation to show for it. In fact, they are the only Arkansas pool company part of the Master Pools Guild, with Alan being the only certified Master Pool Builder in the state.
“When we purchased our first pool company in 1989, everything about this trade came natural to me,” Alan says. “I dreamed of being a builder like the ones I would see in
magazines; with classes through the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance’s Genesis program and education from the former owner of one of our previous companies, we’re doing exactly what I had envisioned from the beginning.”
Diamond Pools has skilled staff who can guide you through the design process and selection of materials such as tile, coping, plaster, and decking. 3D modeling helps you visualize the pool before construction has begun, and the company provides continuing service long after the project is complete. Above all, Alan’s advice to those looking to build the pool of their dreams is to “hire a reputable, educated builder,” he says.
Botanica Gardens has been designing and building the finest pools and spas for residential and commercial clients throughout the state for close to 25 years. Owned and operated by Chris H. Olsen, Botanica Gardens is extremely proud of their hard-earned reputation as one of the best pool contractors in Central Arkansas. Their unique innovative hardscape and landscape designs have won numerous awards, and their top priority is building pools, spas, patio covers, outdoor kitchens, decorative walls and entertainment areas that exceed their customers’ wildest dreams. At Botanica Gardens, they dare to be different, which keeps homeowners and business owners calling on them for stunning creative designs and first-rate craftsmanship. Give Chris a call at 501-614-3000. Check out their profile at botanicagardens.com.
TASTE OF ARKANSAS
What a Catch
AS THE BIRTHPLACE OF COMMERCIAL CATFISH FARMS, ARKANSAS KNOWS A THING OR TWO ABOUT THE REGIONALLY FAMOUS FILETS. Long before these entrepreneurships were born, catfish were pulled from streams and rivers from the hills to the Delta as a reliable dinner for a crowd. The fish fry tradition continues today as a source of community and camaraderie that carries beyond the meal on the plate.
Whether as filets or bite-sized nuggets (such as those served at The Faded Rose in Little Rock, shown here), fried catfish is a delicacy that offers the perfect blend of salt, crunch, and juicy fish. Add freshsqueezed lemon, a slice of onion, and a side of tartar sauce or hot sauce along with a few fries, and you’ve got a meal that will please the masses. And, of course, it packs a flavor blackened or broiled as well, but that’s a story all its own.
