At Home in Arkansas | August 2023

Kaufman by Design West

Welcome to Dream Living.

Your dream home goes beyond walls and windows. It’s about how you live, and where — like the expertly planned neighborhoods offered by Chenal Properties. Scenic landscapes. Thoughtful extras. All comfortably nestled among the schools, restaurants, businesses and outdoor amenities you love best. These are more than dream homes. It’s a dream life. See what’s available to build or buy.

WEST LITTLE ROCK GLASS LLC.

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 Stylist

Lauren Cerrato

Contributing Writers Tiffany Adams, Eileen Beard, Virginia Brown, and Rebekah Hall Scott

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

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ADVERTISING

For information about advertising in At Home in Arkansas, call 501.666.5510 or email kelly@athomearkansas.com

2207 Cottondale Lane Little Rock, AR 72202 501.666.5510

From the Editor

Working on our annual Family Homes Issue always stirs up a wave of nostalgia for me. I think about my favorite hide-and-seek spots in the house where I grew up and the excitement my sister and I felt when our parents painted a giant rainbow on the wall of our playroom. I remember the thrill of rearranging my bedroom all by myself, a memory I think many of the design-obsessed out there can relate to.

In “Organic Oasis” (page 50), the homeowner mentions she’d always wanted a custom house. With children still in elementary school, she decided the timing was right to build so her kids’ childhoods would be filled with moments together in this special space. Whether you’re renting, remodeling, or building from scratch, I think that’s the goal for any family home: to be a place where children feel inspired, can grow into themselves, and will create memories to last a lifetime.

Happy reading!

Reader Responses

Your responses to our June and July issues

“Where did the wall mural come from?”

— B. L. VIA FACEBOOK

So glad you asked! Designer Lisa Stagg sourced the wall treatment featured in Jenny Turner’s dining room (above, featured in June 2023) from online retailer Anewall.

“Beautiful issue as always! And love Best Cafe!!”

—LISA L. VIA INSTAGRAM

“Love this makeover. It is like a breath of fresh air.”

—BARBARA F. VIA FACEBOOK

“This feature was stunning. Wonderful issue as always!”

—SARAH B. VIA INSTAGRAM

Latest

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).

Autumn Beaulieu has opened retail store Jagr Jane in the West Village area of Little Rock. Having worked as a floral designer under the moniker Petal Chik Designs for two decades, Autumn eventually started offering interior design services to her clients. In 2020, she decided to officially transition her business from flowers to home design. Located at 1602 Merrill Drive, Suite B, Jagr Jane carries art, home décor, and gifts all inspired by Autumn’s love of ’90s grunge and rock ’n’ roll. Call 501.500.2655 or follow along on Instagram (@jagrjaneworld) for store hours and more information.

Photos by Rett Peek

STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST BAILEY DOUGAN

Ceramic pet bowls and woven dog collar. Box Turtle, Little Rock SHOPBOXTURTLE.COM

Adjustable nylon leash in Dark Timber. Domestic Domestic, Little Rock DOMESTICDOMESTIC.COM

1 & 2 “Who Rescued Who?” dog bowls and Dog & Bay quick-dry towel. The Full Moon, Little Rock 501.663.4367

3 Hand-stamped custom pet ID tags. Bella Vita Jewelry, Little Rock BELLAVITAJEWELRY.NET

4 Ombré rope and leather pet collar. Remedy Road, Bentonville SHOPREMEDYROAD.COM

5 Wicker canopy pet bed. Tipton & Hurst, Little Rock TIPTONHURST.COM

6 & 7 Feed Me: 50 Home Cooked Meals for Your Dog and canvas dog bone toy. City Supply, Fayetteville CITYSUPPLYFAYETTEVILLE.COM

8 KONG elephant dog toy. Doggy Daddy, Little Rock DOGGYDADDYSTORE.COM

Photos by Rett Peek (3 & 8) and courtesy of vendors

OUTDOOR LIVING + LANDSCAPE DESIGN • BUILD • MAINTAIN

SPEND MORE TIME OUTSIDE

501.454.9803 | BETTERLAWNSAR.COM

1504 Rebsamen Park Road Little Rock • 501.280.3200

Modern Appeal

Neutral tones and clean-lined silhouettes bring easy, approachable style to current furniture and lighting

PRODUCER BAILEY DOUGAN

“Pescadero” credenza, “Valen” antiqued mirror, “Topanga” dining table, and “Loleta” side chairs, all from Universal Furniture.

Twelve options for components of this sectional make it a versatile option.

Local Retailers

CHELSEA HOUSE

Cantrell Furniture Design Center, cantrellfurniture.com

CR LAINE

Art of Design, shadavari.com DP Designs, 501.680.8114

Lamb’s Interior Design, lambsinteriordesign.com Phoenix Interiors, 501.225.0400

CURREY & COMPANY

Cobblestone & Vine, cobblestoneandvine.com

FAIRFIELD

Abide Furniture, abidefurniture.net Arkansas Furniture, arkansasfurniture.com

This stylish desk lamp works as well on a bedside table as it does in a home office.

H3 Home + Decor, h3homedecor.com Providence Design, providenceltddesign.com White Furniture, whitefurniturecompany.com

GABBY

Art of Design, shadavari.com Blue D’or Interiors, 870.336.1435

Cobblestone & Vine, cobblestoneandvine.com

Providence Design, providenceltddesign.com

GLOBAL VIEWS

Phoenix Interiors, 501.225.0400

Cantrell Furniture Design Center, cantrellfurniture.com Cobblestone & Vine, cobblestoneandvine.com

HOOKER FURNITURE

Arkansas Furniture, arkansasfurniture.com Brashears Furniture, brashears.com Butler Furniture, butlerfurniture.com Cantrell Furniture Design Center, cantrellfurniture.com Cost Plus Furniture Warehouse, costplusfurniturewarehouse.com H3 Home + Decor, h3homedecor.com Sowell’s Furniture, sowellsfurniture.com

1 CR Laine “Beckett” sectional in Warm Welcome Natural. 2 “Abbie” cocktail table by Shayla Copas for Chelsea House, available through shopshaylacopas.com. 3 “Nadine” task lamp from Gabby. 4 “Penelope” chest with raised panel designs by Fairfield. 5 “Teahouse” rattan two-tier pendant by Currey & Company. 6 Uttermost “Wishbone” side table.

Images courtesy of vendors

A woven rattan drum shade brings natural warmth to this sconce.

This sleek dresser features a bleached white oak finish and burnished brass accents.

REGINA ANDREW DETROIT

Cynthia East Fabrics, cynthiaeastfabrics.com Cobblestone & Vine, cobblestoneandvine.com Providence Design, providenceltddesign.com

UNIVERSAL FURNITURE

Abide Furniture, abidefurniture.net Arkansas Furniture, arkansasfurniture.com Art of Design, shadavari.com Blackmon’s Furniture & Appliances, blackmonfurniture.com Brashears Furniture, brashears.com Cantrell Furniture Design Center, cantrellfurniture.com Cost Plus Furniture Warehouse, costplusfurniturewarehouse.com Dean’s Furniture, deanfurnitureco.com H3 Home + Decor, h3homedecor.com Harris Furniture, harrisfurniture.com mertinsdykehome, merkinsdykehome.com Southern Loft , mysouthernloft.com Sowell’s Furniture, sowellsfurniture.com Warnock Furniture, warnockfurniture.com

UTTERMOST

Arkansas Furniture, arkansasfurniture.com Brashears Furniture, brashears.com

Cajun Bros. Furniture & Mattress, cajunbrothersfurniture.com GW Lighting and Home, gwlightingandhome.com Gamble Home Furnishings, shopgambles.com H3 Home + Decor, h3homedecor.com Kaufman By Design West , kaufmanlumber.com Lighting Emporium, lightingemporium.com Pollard’s, 870.933.9711 Southern Loft , mysouthernloft.com

Please note retailers listed for the items shown may only have pieces available by special order. Additionally, many lines are available to the trade through your favorite local interior designer.

7 Chelsea House “Hive” porcelain lamp in blue. 8 & 9 “Nimes” sconce and “Dogwood” chandelier by Regina Andrew Detroit. 10 “Blue Ridge” round dining table from Hooker Furniture’s Linville Falls collection. 11 “Pasatiempo” accent chair in Singer Haze by Erin V for Universal Furniture. 12 “Paxton” bleached white oak dresser by Ashley Childers for Global Views, available through ashleychilders.com.

4176 S. Thompson St. | Springdale, AR 72764 | @abidefurniture

Kricia commissioned Tulsa artist Madison Summerlin to create this piece based on the color of the Roman shade.

After seven years in their Roland home, the time was finally right for Kricia Palmer and her husband, Jon, to update their primary bathroom. The house was built in 2007 with some of the period’s usual hallmarks: travertine tile floor, dark antique bronze fixtures, and warm lighting. “It just felt drab,” Kricia says. “I focus a lot on how I feel in different spaces, and I wanted to be able to pick out clothes, put on makeup, and get ready in a space that felt luxurious and relatively timeless.”

As owner of House Calls for Physicians, an interior design and coaching business, Kricia designed the project herself. She considered alternate layouts but soon realized the existing flow actually just needed a few tweaks. So while keeping the vanities, shower, and tub in their existing locations, she set about improving both the utility and style of the room.

“Before the remodel, there was a lot of wasted space with the sinks located in separate vanities,” she recalls. Relocating both to the longer wall freed up space by the shower for a sit-down makeup vanity and built-in storage, both priorities for Kricia.

The shower was retiled in a classic white subway tile with inset border pieces to give the effect of a chair rail and picture molding, and the shower entry was updated as well. “We decided not to have a door because the shower is large enough that water doesn't splash out, and it gives a cleaner look,” Kricia says. A pony wall separates the space from the updated deck-style tub, and the same subway tile and decorative application continues as the surround for a seamless look.

The designer finished the room with nickel plumbing fixtures, quartz countertops, new flooring, fresh lighting, and a custom window covering. Benjamin Moore’s “Chantilly Lace” on the trim and doors complements a textured wallpaper by Schumacher, which she says adds depth to the otherwise all-white space.

Situating both sinks on this wall created an area for a sit-down make-up vanity and built-in storage next to the shower.

1

PRETTY PATTERN

“I knew I wanted the floor to be the focus and the most interesting element,” Kricia says of the basketweave marble tile underfoot. The selection is also in keeping with the airy and timeless feel that was the goal of the remodel.

2

SOFT SELECTION

The Roman shade’s lilac hue connects the room’s palette to the adjoining bedroom, while the curved lines on the fabric tape further the “calming and graceful” feel of the space, Kricia says.

3

BRIGHT

IDEA

Outdated bronze sconces with scrollwork were swapped for a transitional style that suits the lighter space, and the ball detail mirrors the sphere seen on the chandelier over the tub.

4

WITH THE GRAIN

Inspired by some images seen on Pinterest, Kricia decided to use all drawers in the vanities instead of cabinet doors. The beechwood finish is stained an espresso color to allow the grain to shine through, and the wood tone adds warmth to the space.

—Kricia Palmer, homeowner and designer

“I just wanted it to feel light, airy, and luxurious.”

Design Resources

CONTRACTOR Jimmy Carlisle, Carlisle Construction INTERIOR DESIGN Kricia Palmer, MD, Allied ASID, House Calls for Physicians COUNTERTOPS Affordable Granite and More FIXTURES The Plumbing Warehouse FLOORING The Tile Shop PAINT Benjamin Moore PAINTING Interpretation, LLC TILE A&F Custom Interiors WALLPAPER (INSTALLATION) Lorita Herring WINDOW COVERINGS Cynthia East Fabrics

Groove Groove In the of Things

The mother-daughter duo behind Daisy Pastry Shoppe brings spirited sweets to central Arkansas

Sweet on Nostalgia

Like their musically named desserts, Daisy Pastry Shoppe’s products themselves reflect a retro vibe. For example, the “Let’s Go Crazy” Rice Krispie treat is a funky, colorful take on a childhood favorite.

Get the Goods

Through September, find Daisy Pastry Shoppe at the Hillcrest Farmers Market every Saturday from 7-11 a.m. (or until they sell out!). You can also follow along on Instagram (@daisypastryshoppe) for pop-up announcements and order goodies at daisypastryshoppe.com.

Ashanti & AshantiJennifer & Jennifer

If you’ve been to any of the half dozen farmers markets in the Little Rock area over the past year, you may have noticed one vendor in particular who really grooves to the beat of their own drum: Daisy Pastry Shoppe. Their bright pink table is decked out with glittering disco balls and vintage cassette tapes identifying treats with names of classic rock hits like “Whole Lotta Love” (a brown butter blondie inspired by the Led Zeppelin song) and “Magical Mystery Tour” (a triple berry sandwich cookie with lemon filling fit for The Beatles). But for Jennifer Hill Green and Ashanti Parker, the mother-daughter team behind this exuberant pop-up shop, baking is serious business.

It all started with Cupcake Wars. When Ashanti was still just a little girl, she was obsessed with the Food Network reality show and told her mom she wanted to become a baker. Meanwhile, Jennifer idolized chef “Duff” Goldman on Ace of Cakes, and she had a hunch she could make cakes as beautiful as his. “I was baking when I was 10 years old because my grandmother liked to cook and bake a lot,” Jennifer says. She dreamed of starting a business she could pass down to her kids, so she bought some cake pans and started experimenting with her little ones by her side. “She had me and my other siblings involved, but I really loved it most,” Ashanti says.

By 2020, Jennifer had a successful custom cake business in addition to her full-time job at a medical lab in Texas, and Ashanti had moved back to The Natural State and was creating content for

a trainer at a Little Rock gym. Not only did Ashanti miss her mom terribly, but she missed baking, too—so she decided to enroll in a two-year virtual pastry program with the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and convinced Jennifer to join to perfect her skills.

Before long, circumstances brought Jennifer back to Arkansas and the two started baking their “homework” in the same kitchen. They worked so well together that Jennifer decided the time was right to leave her previous career and focus on pastry school fulltime. “I was in the medical field for 20-plus years,” Jennifer says. “It was hard, but I knew that I had to do it for Ashanti and to get this off the ground.” The two began to develop a business plan while they were still in school and started testing out recipes on friends and family.

It was at Ashanti’s gym, of all places, that the duo would sell their first decadent desserts. One day, they made a box of assorted sweets to give one of the trainers on his birthday. “One client in particular,

also known as Prickly Pear Lemonade

Babe BabeJuice Juice

RECIPE Serves 8

SHOP

8 large mint leaves

8 ounces fresh-squeezed lemon juice

4 ounces simple syrup

8 ounce prickly pear syrup (available at your local liquor store)

2 cups sparkling water or club soda

edible glitter (Daisy Pastry Shoppe buys theirs on Amazon)

lemon wedges and extra mint, for garnish

PREPARE

Place mint in a pitcher and use a spoon or muddler to muddle the herbs. Add lemon juice, simple syrup, and prickly pear syrup, then stir; strain out mint if desired. Top with sparkling water or club soda and a sprinkle of edible glitter. Stir and pour over ice. Garnish with lemon and mint, and enjoy.

she saw that box and she ended up calling,” Ashanti recalls. Orders took off from there, even among the gym’s weight-watching clientele. “You have no idea how many times I had to sneak boxes in the gym. It was like Mission Impossible,” she laughs.

Given Ashanti’s content background, it’s no surprise the duo would create such a strong brand for their new business. “This is a very competitive field. So you kind of have to pull out all the works if you want to be different,” Ashanti says. The retro rock ’n’ roll theme came to these music lovers naturally, given ’70s tunes are often what’s playing in the background while they bake.

In October 2022, the two attended their first farmers market at Bernice Garden and sold out. Jennifer says she hasn’t looked back since. Together, she and Ashanti bake and sell cakes, cookies, bars, and breads, both through pre-orders on their website and at various markets and pop-ups. “It was definitely well worth me backing away from the 9-to-5 to come up with a business with her that she can pass down to her children and further on down,” Jennifer says. “That’s really important to me, that family legacy.” Above, Daisy Pastry Shoppe shares the recipe for their Babe Juice, which can be enjoyed as a refreshing nonalcoholic beverage or sweet and sparkly cocktail.

To turn this lemonade into a batch cocktail, Jennifer and Ashanti recommend adding 10 ounces of white rum.

After relocating from Dallas, the owners of this home fell in love with the historic, walkable neighborhoods of downtown Fayetteville. They purchased a house that had been renovated by area entrepreneur Mark Zweig and desired to create a backyard that matched its distinctive style while offering plenty of amenities for their family to enjoy. Enter exterior designer Daniel Keeley of Northwest Arkansas-based DK Design. “They wanted a pool and a covered space where everyone could gather, and it was very important for this portion to look like it had been added during the home’s previous renovation,” he says.

Taking the reins on design for the pool, pavilion, and plantings, Daniel transformed what was formerly a fencedin yard with a grassy lawn into a private oasis right in the middle of town. Working within the long-established lot lines, he and his team created a layout that feels spacious yet has defined zones for gathering, relaxing, and grilling. “We pushed everything as far as we could along the property lines to maximize the space,” he says.

Mimicking the roofline of the home’s existing detached garage, Daniel opted for a barn-like roof on the pavilion. He also replicated details from the front of the main house, such as the brackets on the structure’s eaves. “We patterned everything down to the paint and stone after the existing structure to make it feel unified,” the designer adds. Inside the comfortable hangout area, a teak coffee table and aluminum sofas echo Daniel’s philosophy of thoughtfully mixing materials in outdoor design.

Daniel used Peacock Pavers, which have the look of travertine, for the pool and spa surround and continued this material under the pavilion for a cohesive flow.

READY FOR A CROWD

The garage features an apartment with a full kitchen, making it unnecessary to construct a full outdoor kitchen. Instead, the designer added a built-in grill and lighting along one of its exterior walls. Chaise lounge chairs arranged along one side of the pool offer a front row seat for the action as well as a place to sunbathe.

POLISHED POOL

Bronze scuppers line the far side of the pool to create a cosmopolitan water feature, while lush, low-maintenance liriope and arborvitae define the perimeter and play into the natural palette. “I like a dark blue pool,” Daniel says in reference to the lining and tile edging. “A deep color feels sophisticated but is still blue enough to look refreshing.”

FOR ALL SEASONS

Arkansas natural stone covers the gas log fireplace, which is accented with a reclaimed wood mantel. Faux windows allow a cross breeze to blow through the pavilion while built-in fans and heaters also make the retreat usable for the majority of the year. A built-in cabinet protects the television from the elements while adhering to the design’s architectural style.

Design Resources

OUTDOOR DESIGN Daniel Keeley, DK Design MASONRY Hammer and Chisel

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER BAILEY DOUGAN

Rita Ward’s playful sculptures at Terra Studios.

riving into Terra Studios in Fayetteville is like walking through the gates of another dimension. All around, ceramic creatures—birds, dragons, trolls, bears, and children, to name a few—are integrated into the wooded landscape and winding paths that make up the campus. It’s incredible, strange, and wonderful, and it’s free for anyone to experience.

Now a nonprofit organization, Terra Studios’ mission is to support local artists and inspire creativity. It does this through a variety of programs: a gallery that sells work by area artists, live demonstrations, and a monthly “art lab,” which invites people at any skill level to participate in a craft together. And then, of course, there’s the art park, the 4.5-acre sculpturefilled grounds that visitors are invited to explore, all free of cost. “There's really nothing like us around here, especially in this little nook of Arkansas,” says executive director Emma Fuston.

The story of this unique place began in 1975 with founders Rita and Leo Ward. The two were California art teachers who grew tired of the West Coast, so they bought this property in the Ozarks and moved to Arkansas, Emma explains. Both were potters, and Rita began to install her whimsical ceramics along the grounds. But it was one of Leo’s creations, initially a gift for his wife, that would prove to be life-changing: the Bluebird of Happiness. “In this area we have a lot of bluebirds, and Rita just always really adored them,” Emma says. “He made the glass bluebird as a present for her and then they started making a bunch, and people really took to them.” To date, Terra Studios has sold more than 8 million of their trademarked glassblown bluebirds all over the world.

In fact, the Bluebird of Happiness is in large part what allowed Terra Studios to grow the way it did, setting it up for success for decades to come. “We have an enormous amount of respect for Leo and Rita and the legacy that they have created for us to carry on here,” Emma says. “People don't come to Terra Studios in a bad mood. They have fun, they get inspired, they make memories, and that’s what makes us happy.”

For the future, Emma sees the organization continuing its mission to provide arts education and support local artists while growing its event programming and community partnerships. “I'm really excited to see how Northwest Arkansas is growing,” she says, citing places such as Art Ventures NWA and the museums in Bentonville as part of the same microcosm of creativity in her corner of the state. “Even in my short time here, it's been so beautiful to watch the changes and evolutions that Terra has gone through to match what our community really needs.” Read on for more of our favorite ways to discover Fayetteville and nearby Springdale.

Clockwise, from top left: A vignette at Massimo Interior Design. Independent bookstore Pearl’s Books. Arsaga’s Mill District on School Avenue. Colorful gifts and home accents at Presley Paige. A downtown Fayetteville mural by local artist Olivia Trimble. Inside Pink House Alchemy. An old-fashioned pick-up truck outside the James + James headquarters in Springdale. Bluebirds of Happiness on display at Terra Studios.

SHOP

Visit the downtown Fayetteville showroom of MASSIMO INTERIOR DESIGN (massimointeriordesign.com) to see the design group’s signature contemporary-meets-classic mix of home furnishings and décor. For everything from fine jewelry to everyday looks, shop ROMANCE DIAMOND CO.’s (romancediamond.com) flagship store on Dickson Street. THE FRENCH COTTAGE (thefrenchcottageshop.com) is a must-visit for those who love French antiques. Find the gift and home décor store on Fayetteville's Main Drive, close to historic Johnson. CASEY SARKIN HOME (479.530.0686) is the Fayetteville showroom of designer Casey Sarkin, featuring one-of-a-kind furniture, lighting, and accessories. In Springdale, stop by R MCCLINTOCK (rmcclintock.com), a wood-working studio featuring furniture, dinnerware, and cutting boards all handmade by artisan Rachel McClintock.

DINE

Located on School Avenue in Fayetteville, ARSAGA’S MILL DISTRICT (arsagas.com) is loved by locals for its elevated Southern breakfast and lunch menus. You’ll find plenty of vegan and gluten-free items available, too. In Springdale, FRIDHA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN & MEZCAL (479.365.7002) is the place to be if you’re craving south-of-the-border cuisine, and their daily happy hour ($3 house margarita) can’t be beat. Coming soon: CRÊPES PAULETTE (crepespaulette.com

a Bentonville favorite, has announced a Fayetteville location for their handheld sweet and savory creations. Follow along on Instagram (@crepespaulette) for an official opening date 2341 N. College Ave.

VISIT

While the P&G Broadway Series at WALTON ARTS CENTER (waltonartscenter.org) doesn’t kick off until September, you’ll want to reserve tickets now for the six-show season, which includes Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Disney’s Aladdin, To Kill a Mockingbird, and more. Looking to develop a closer relationship with where your food comes from? Check out APPLE SEEDS TEACHING FARM (appleseedsnwa.org), which offers interactive classes for kids and teens, garden workshops, and the Kitchen Table Dinner Series with visiting chefs—all located in Fayetteville’s Gulley Park.

A Springdale mural created by Mexican artist Hilda “Poni” Palafox for the ARkanvas art initiative.

When Lesley and Seth Bunting learned that they’d be adding baby Margot to the family, they called Kendall Jones to help design the nursery. “Her work is fresh and fun, and not too formal,” Lesley says of the designer, whom she’d enjoyed following on Instagram before reaching out. “Kendall does a good job of mixing old and new, and that’s what I was looking for.”

With an empty guest bedroom as a blank slate, the Buntings approached Kendall with inspiration images in hand. “It was clear they had great taste and wanted something polished and timeless with a statement pattern element,” Kendall says. The couple’s only request for the design was that pink not be the predominant color. Instead, they built from a palette of blue and green, Lesley’s favorite, starting with the floral Thibaut fabric “Cairo” for custom drapery. “It feels playful for a nursery, but very sophisticated as her daughter grows,” says Kendall. Bonus: Because the pattern is not too childish, Lesley can eventually use it in other rooms of the house, making it a versatile investment.

While the walls are painted a creamy white, a pop of color

GOOD IN SMALL DOSES

While Margot’s parents wanted her room to feature more than just pink, the hue comes into play in a few meaningful ways. “The rocking chair with pink welt was an item Lesley already had, and by pairing it with a complementary pink ottoman, it feels like it was always meant for the space,” Kendall says.

above continues the room’s cozy, classic feel. “One of my favorite things to do in a nursery is treat the ceiling in a special way with paint or wallpaper, since babies spend so much time gazing up,” Kendall says. For this space, they chose a blue hue inspired by the painted porch ceilings popular in the South. “It feels very warm and feminine when paired with pink accents,” the designer says. The room’s green tones continue through a herringbone Dash & Albert rug and ticking-stripe crib bedding, while a pair of pink lamps and scalloped accents give the room girlish charm.

Over the crib hangs a custom piece of art Kendall describes as the nursery’s “crowning jewel.” “As soon as I mentioned commissioning something from Sarah Creasman, an Arkansas native, Lesley teared up and showed me some very sentimental artwork she had from Sarah already,” she says. The artist was provided with loose direction and an image of the room to produce a piece that encompasses the colorful whimsy of the space. “We absolutely love it,” Lesley says of the finished nursery. “It’s a bright, happy room, and Kendall did the perfect job capturing what I was looking for: something sweet that our daughter would be able to grow into.” AH

“Take Five” Sherwin-Williams

“The art can certainly grow with the baby or be leveraged in another space in the home as a fond reminder of her arrival,” Kendall says of a painting by Sarah Creasman Art hanging over the

Design Resources

INTERIOR DESIGN Kendall Jones, Kendall Jones Design ACCESSORIES Art of Design, Cobblestone & Vine, Cynthia East Fabrics, and The Shade Above Lighting Collection FABRICS Designer Effects FURNITURE Art of Design LIGHTING Light Innovations PAINT Sherwin-Williams WINDOW COVERINGS Nancy Osborne

crib.

The original rock exterior of the 1940s home is complemented with a fresh coat of paint on the door and copper lantern. Jessica’s friend Sarah Garlow, who is a Sebastian County Master Gardener, created the container plantings at the base of the steps.

A WHOLE NEW CHARM

A Fort Smith family enlists the help of designer Emily Heim to update their classic home with a modern spin

The family’s personalized style is introduced in the entry where creamy white walls create the backdrop for a mix of vintage and contemporary accessories.

WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

Masculine and cozy, the home’s man cave has leather chairs and a whiskey cabinet to enhance the room’s rugged feel.

have a little bit of a Zillow addiction,” admits homeowner Jessica Irgens. Over the past 10 years, she and her husband, Shane, and their two children have lived in five different houses in Fort Smith. However, when she found this 1948 charmer on a long-established street, she knew it could be a place for her family to really put down roots.

Although parts of the house had been remodeled along the way, much of the original structure and architectural features were still in place. “I’ve always favored older, historic homes,” Jessica says. “It needed updates, but I could see the vision.” She and Shane turned to friend and local designer Emily Heim to bring the dream to life. “When they bought this house, I was working on a new construction home that was totally different,” she recalls. “This is such a classic storybook home.” With solid bones, enchanting archways, and a timeless traditional

feel, the house had a lot going for it, and Emily knew they could play to these features while also updating the flow and functionality of workhorse spaces such as the kitchen and primary bath. Wanting to preserve the structure’s character while incorporating the Irgenses’ personal style, Emily looked for ways to highlight the home’s beautiful stonework as a focal point. She also used as many of their existing furnishings as possible, including the tables and chairs seen in the dining room and breakfast nook. The result is an updated space that reflects the family’s preferences and celebrates the abode’s history.

“I wasn’t sure I was going to use a designer, but there is no way I could’ve done it on my own,” Jessica says. “I’m quirky, and I doubted that someone could nail my style; but Emily did, and she was such an advocate for us along the way. She quickly had a vision for the house and could make decisions to make it happen." AH

Located near the entry, the music room sets the tone for the quirky, collected style found throughout the home.

IN TUNE

The music room is Jessica’s favorite spot for morning coffee as well as a place to practice piano on the white baby grand. “We were going for a midcenturymodern vibe, and I knew we could do that while still keeping the walls clean,” Emily says, pointing to the mustard-hued sofa as evidence of this influence. Whimsical pieces like the large-scale tapestry, an Anthropologie find, and portrait of Lil Wayne feel at home next to traditional architectural features such as the leaded glass windows and dentil molding.

OUTFITTED FOR A CHEF

“Jessica loves to cook and entertain, so we knew the kitchen would have to be a showstopper,” Emily says. The entire room was updated with a streamlined neutral palette, new appliances, and an island that is large enough for both meals and craft projects. “Everything is clean and bright but not totally white,” the designer notes. The sink was relocated from a corner to a far wall where a pair of newly installed windows overlook a backyard vegetable garden.

home.”

—Emily Heim, designer

“This is such a classic storybook

Built-in niches on either side of the ILVE range offer concealed storage for spices and cooking oils. The cabinets are painted “Mexican Sand Dollar” by KellyMoore Paints.

Open shelving brings in a warm honey wood tone while giving Jessica a place to store cookbooks and display art.

CLASSIC & COZY

A spacious den (above) complete with an oversized sectional and funky swivel chairs is the family’s favorite hangout spot for TV time and togetherness. A saturated, gray-green hue envelops the room and complements the existing stone fireplace, and built-in shelving creates display space for collected treasures. Between this space and the kitchen, a breakfast nook offers additional seating when the Irgenses host a crowd.

“Homburg Gray” Sherwin-Williams

BRING IN THE DRAMA

A moodier feel comes into play in the dining room where rock floors, a feature original to the house, were left intact and accented with a teal grasscloth wallpaper. A large-scale Arteriors chandelier commands attention overhead while a hanging tapestry echoes the piece seen in the adjoining music room.

GROWING UP

Mindful of budget, Emily and Jessica opted to cover only the ceiling of the Irgenses’ daughter’s room with a garden-inspired wallpaper. “It’s a print that can grow with her,” Emily says of the two-tone selection. A Juju hat, a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, hangs over a white iron bed that is outfitted with colorful, botanical-print bedding.

“Demure” Sherwin-Williams

Design Resources

CONTRACTOR Von Holwick, Holwick Remodeling INTERIOR DESIGN Emily Heim, Emily Heim Designs ACCESSORIES, FABRICS, FURNITURE, HARDWARE, MIRRORS, RUGS, TILE (KITCHEN AND BATHROOM), WALLPAPER, AND WINDOW

COVERINGS Emily Heim Designs APPLIANCES Metro Appliances & More CABINETRY

Schluterman Cabinetry COUNTERTOPS Majestic Marble & Granite FIXTURES J&B

Supply FLOORING Smith Hardwood Floors and Allison Sales Flooring & Glass LIGHTING

Emily Heim Designs and Lites Etcetera MILLWORK Holwick Remodeling WINDOWS

WeatherBarr Windows & Doors

COMPLETE CONTRAST

Previously, the primary bath was outfitted with a tan palette featuring a travertine-look tile and dated brass fixtures. Emily kept the original layout but took the space in a fresh direction with a dramatic mix of white and a deep bluish charcoal. Features like the wall-mounted tub faucet, vertical application of the shower and tub surround tile, and patterned marble underfoot add to the current look. The artwork near the vanity is by Emily’s sister, Tulsa artist Candice Barry.

Organic Oasis

PATINA IN PROGRESS

The home’s exterior was designed to age beautifully over time. Stucco and plate glass create a crisp contrast to sections in Ipe, a Brazilian hardwood that fades from its original mahogany shade to a bleached gray. “These materials are going to look entirely different over the next few years, and those elements of the exterior expression are going to be really organic,” Burt Jr. says. The homeowners, originally from Brazil, say Ipe is a widely used material in the country’s architecture.

Oasis

WRITER REBEKAH HALL SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST LAUREN CERRATO AND STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

Taggart Design Group creates a contemporary family home in Roland that embraces its natural surroundings

A Vitra Eames elephant stool atop a Turkish rug and a wall of paper-mâché animal heads from RH bring the home’s modern yet spirited style to a mezzanine outside the primary suite.

Seamless living between the interior and exterior of a residence in west Little Rock is what led the owners of this Roland home on the path that resulted in their dream build. While the particular house that served as inspiration was purchased before they could put an offer on it, the couple researched the property and decided to reach out to the home’s architect: Taggart Design Group. “They were mainly attracted to the integration of the indoor and outdoor spaces and how we let them flow in and out of each other,” says Burt Taggart, Jr., principal of the firm. After purchasing their lot, the couple called on Burt and his son, Burt Taggart, III, who works alongside his father, to design a custom home fit for their family of five.

Inside, an open floor plan connects the kitchen, living room, and dining room, and doors to the outside allow the public spaces to spill out into the backyard. “You walk in and you’re immediately sharing lots of spaces,” Burt III says, noting this

reflects the design these clients were originally so captivated by. Working with the homeowner’s colorful, artistic taste was an inspiring creative collaboration, especially in spaces like the children’s playroom and bedrooms. “It’s her personality integrating with the architecture,” Burt Jr. says. “My task was to give her a perfect foil for her to play off of.” The kitchen’s organic elements—such as the white oak cabinets and the wood that forms the island’s lower tabletop—also work together to create visual interest while being functional for the family’s needs.

“I wanted to build a house before my kids are in college so they can really enjoy it,” the homeowner says. She hopes the home will influence her children to appreciate architecture and develop their own tastes, the same way her father’s house inspired her love of design. “I see already that my kids— especially the girls, who are 10—are already talking about the style of this house, and that makes it worth it.” AH

“I wanted to build a house before my kids are in college so they can really enjoy it.”

—homeowner

A vintage green boating locker from the 1930s brings an element of age to the bright dining space. Three Herman Miller “Nelson Bubble” pendants hang overhead.

LIVABLE LUXURY

Stacked stone and porcelain tile create an artful surround for the inset television and fireplace. “We’re constantly trying to find inventive, aesthetically pleasing ways to hide TVs,” Burt III says. “This was our attempt at creating something to encapsulate two functional elements that we don’t really want to draw special attention to.” The homeowners selected primarily Italian furniture for the house, including the leather chaise lounge and sectional couch seen here.

The kitchen island is made from a material called Dekton, an artificial stone meant to mimic concrete. The lower wood portion was cut from a table used in the family’s previous house, and the homeowner says having the low table top is a current trend in Brazilian interiors.

“Oyster White” Sherwin-Williams

“It’s her personality integrating with the architecture.”

—Burt Taggart, Jr., architect

MODERN WARMTH

In the kitchen, a combination of rift-sawn white oak and man-made plywood cabinets are used to break up the space visually. “For the individual doors and drawers in white oak, everything has been cut out of a single piece and put back together so that the veining is uninterrupted and it reads more as a pure slab,” Burt Jr. says. Open shelving beneath the upper cabinets creates easy-access storage— as well as display space for the homeowner’s collection of salt-and-pepper shakers.

THE PLACE TO BE

In the backyard, an outdoor kitchen and dining area is “100 percent Brazilian,” the homeowner says. “I feel so at home now because of it.” The bar is made of the same Dekton material used for the kitchen island, and tile from a Brazilian company forms the backsplash behind the grill. The space also features a Brazilian rotisserie grill and, just beyond the outdoor kitchen, a turf-covered play area for the kids.

BRIGHT IDEAS

The children’s playroom is a celebration of color and the homeowner’s playful style. Portraits of Marilyn Monroe made from Legos and Campbell’s Soup Cans skateboards, both inspired by the work of Andy Warhol, fill the walls, while a curved orange sofa and monkey side table further the kid-friendly appeal.

The pool is lined in a green Sukabumi tile, a stone imported from Indonesia. The surround is made of more Ipe hardwood, continuing the home’s connection to the natural world.

INTENTIONAL MIX

The primary bedroom (right) is a study of different wood tones, with the same Ipe hardwood used on the exterior featured on the wall behind the headboard. Herringbone-patterned floors in white oak were a request from the homeowner, who says they show the intention behind the design. “I think that any house that has these floors shows that somebody cares about it,” she says. An upholstered bed and layers of texture soften the contemporary retreat.

ROOM TO GROW

The homeowner worked with a friend from Brazil, who is also an architect, to create custom designs for the children’s bedrooms. Built-in shelving along the ceiling provides ample storage for favorite toys and treasures in the boy’s room (left), while twin girls share a dreamy space complete with a slatted wall feature, upholstered headboards, and built-in nightstands (below).

Design Resources

ARCHITECT Burt Taggart, Jr., Taggart Design Group BUILDER Burt Taggart, III, Taggart

Design & Build LANDSCAPE DESIGN Frank Riggins, Crafton Tull CABINETRY Claflin

Custom Cabinets COUNTERTOPS Moix Marbleworks MILLWORK Harlan Glover PAINT

Sherwin-Williams POOL & SPA Diamond Pools

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TRENDSETTERS

Thinking about starting a renovation project or new build? Turn to one of these local interior designers to help lead the way

Design by Bear Hill Interiors.

Photo by Rett Peek

Massimo Interior Design

After working for and mentoring under a well-known Little Rock designer for a decade, Scott Paterek opened his own firm, Massimo Interior Design, in 1996. “That role was a wonderful experience, but I had always had a desire to have my own business,” he says. Today, Scott’s team includes designers Tammie Weaver and Dakota Pyle as well as retail manager Loddie Gehrki. Together, they have 70 years of combined experience and work as a design team on all projects. In this way, the group feeds off each

other’s different tastes, always keeping their projects interesting.

Massimo Interior Design offers full-service design for remodels and new-construction homes alike. No matter the scope, the team starts every project by asking the right questions: “We ask about our clients’ lifestyles. Where do they spend the most time? What change would bring people together for better communication? We strive to keep up with how families live in their homes,” Scott says.

While the firm is known for a meaningful mix of classic and modern elements, Massimo Interior Design works across a range of styles. “We appreciate all aspects of design and enjoy creating spaces that reflect the style of each of our clients, which can range from traditional to contemporary or anything in between,” the designer adds. “We typically start with a clean foundation and simple lines, then accent with antiques and artistic finds. These found pieces reflect the client’s taste and personality.”

LITTLE ROCK AND FAYETTEVILLE

Shayla Copas Interiors

A luxury designer with a flair for Southern glam, Shayla Copas has branched out into product design, speaking engagements, and books since founding her interior design firm more than a decade ago. Now, she leads Shayla Copas Lifestyle, which covers all aspects of her brand—including the newest addition, high-end international travel. “Shayla Copas Lifestyle stands out in the industry because we offer so many services that appeal to lifestyle consumers,” she says. “Not only do we design our clients’ homes, we design their bucket list vacations as well. We know how our clients like to live, so the addition of Virtuoso luxury travel has been seamless.”

At the helm of Shayla Copas Interiors, the designer recommends people think first about their kitchens when considering remodels. “It’s also the main area where most families gather, so more time is spent in that space,” she says. The designer brings her eye for detail and thoughtful space planning to every project, no matter the scope. “With my years of experience, I’m highly skilled at not only coming up with a stunning design but also at analyzing the function of a space,” she says.

LITTLE ROCK

How would you describe your style?

“Transitional with an edge; luxe but livable.”

—Erin Lefler, Lefler Teeter Designs

“Collected. I love mixing furniture pieces and time periods to create interiors that tell a story!”

—Eric Doud, Curations Home

“Classic, tailored, and timeless. I start with the basics and build. After that, I buy what I love and find a spot for them.”

—Stacy Sheid Epps, Stacy Sheid Interiors

“Classic, glamorous, and effortless. The most beautiful rooms aren’t just filled with pretty things, but they are also personal and inviting.”

—Beth Reed, Interiors by Beth Reed

“I love a mix between Mediterranean, bohemian, and art deco with layered textures, pops of color, and lots of geometric shapes with clean lines.”

—Briony Reynolds, Kaufman By Design West

“Southern and classic with a touch of glamour.”

—Shayla Copas, Shayla Copas Interi ors

“Cheerful, comfortable, and sophisticated. Or, traditional with a great personality!”

—Kricia Palmer, House Calls for Physicians

“Transitional. I love the warmth and comfort of traditional style, with clean, classic lines of contemporary design. To me, it's the best of both worlds.”

—Lisa Stagg, LJ Interiors

“Eclectic and layered. My heart belongs to all things vintage, and my favorite rooms pull from multiple design eras.”

—Whitney Romanoff, Meet West Studio

“New traditional; fresh with classic bones.”

—Meghan Teeter, Lefler Teeter Designs

“Clean-lined traditional with a love for adding some mid-century funkiness.”

Natalie Biles, Shine Interior Design Studio

Harper Howey Interiors

Interior designer Kimberly Harper and business professional Cynthia Howey Tune formed Harper Howey Interiors in 2012 to deliver thoughtful, beautiful interiors to busy clients across Northwest Arkansas and beyond. At the time, Kimberly had established a successful firm of her own while Cynthia, an accountant by training, owned and operated a tile and granite company. The partnership leverages Kimberly’s discerning eye and creativity as well as Cynthia’s expertise in project management and customer service, creating an exceptional experience for every client.

For each project, Kimberly takes inspiration from art, fashion, and travel to blend timeless sensibilities with bold, modern touches. “My work is curated, collected, and layered,” she says. “The key is to find a style that doesn’t just look good, but will feel good for years to come.” In regards to their process, Kimberly and Cynthia believe in a customer-centric, collaborative approach. “We spend a lot of time listening to clients to hone in on their preferences and needs,” Cynthia says. “We view our clients as partners throughout the process and often walk away as friends.”

4306 S. Thompson St. 479.750.7300 harperhoweyinteriors.com @harperhoweyinteriors

House Calls for Physicians

Kricia Palmer took an unconventional path to interior design, first training and practicing as a pediatric allergist/ immunologist. Craving a more creative career, she went back to college for an interior design degree. “After interning and working for local designer Tobi Fairley, I launched my own business, House Calls for Physicians, where I provide interior design services to other women physicians,” she says. “I offer traditional interior design services and I also offer an online course, Design Academy, that teaches other women physicians how to design for

themselves.”

Kricia describes her personal style as “fresh, cheerful traditional,” which often translates to the work she does for others. She helps clients achieve a serene atmosphere through both aesthetic choices and functional updates. “My clients want to walk into their home at the end of a hectic, stressful day and feel enveloped in comfort and calm,” she says. “Anything that helps that happen is worth the investment, whether it’s as simple as adding a thoughtful, organized drop zone to their entryway or a total kitchen remodel.”

501.551.1221

housecallsforphysicians.com

@kriciapalmermd

SPRINGDALE

LITTLE ROCK

FAYETTEVILLE

Studio MH

In 2007 Melissa Hall Simmons designed her own home from the ground up. “My very first client toured the home and hired me!” she says. From there, her Northwest Arkansas-based full-scale luxury firm has continued to grow and expand its capabilities. Studio MH specializes in renovations and new construction with a team that has the capability to draw house plans, create interior elevations and lighting plans, and select interior and exterior finishes as well as furnishings and accessories. They work on commercial and residential projects

of all kinds, from urban condos to rural farmhouses, historical renovations to contemporary builds—and everything in between. “We want to change the way our clients ‘live’ in their homes—the way they feel, see, and experience life practically, functionally, and aesthetically,” Melissa says. To do this, she guides homeowners toward finding and developing their style all the while creating a clean and classic overall feel. “Ultimately, we want our clients to feel a connection to their home and to have it be a reflection of them.”

479.435.6990 studio-mh.com @studio.mh.design

LITTLE ROCK

Curations Home

After 20 years working in high-end furniture retail spaces, Eric Doud opened Curations Home in Pavilion in the Park in the fall of 2022. The showroom is a blend of new and old, with vintage and antique finds alongside clean-lined upholstery and current accessories. “What sets us apart is the mix. It’s a collected look,” Eric says. He also offers design services, where he can assist with space planning, paint colors, art installation, and upholstery, drapery, and bedding designs.

Eric’s recommendation for those considering a renovation is to invest in the hard surfaces: “These are the areas

that date a home,” he says. “Other cosmetics can be easily changed, but replacing flooring or countertops can give you lasting beauty.” For that timeless design, his advice is to use real hardwood or stone floors throughout the home and natural stone countertops in the kitchen and bath.

As for his personal style, the designer is passionate about vintage and antique elements, and hopes that he can help guide clients toward starting collections of their own.

“Buying vintage or antique pieces does not have to be difficult or boring,” he says. “Buy what you love and you will always find joy looking at it.”

Photo courtesy of The Scout Guide

What’s one trend you’re loving right now?

“Natural elements. We see a lot of textured fibers when it comes to furniture, rugs, and lighting. I love that it doesn't belong in one design genre—you can go coastal, French country, or Scandinavian. The options are endless.”

"I am loving how walls are becoming utilized as the prime canvases that they are! From fun wallpaper patterns to textures such as grasscloth, murals, and other decorative wall treatments, there are some amazing applications out there these days."

—Kathryn LeMaster, Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design

—Briony Reynolds, Kaufman By Design West

“Ceiling details. Depending on the space, I may use a large-scale wallpaper, dark paint, wood accents, or a coffered design. This helps add depth and texture without overpowering the room.”

—Beth Reed, Interiors by Beth Reed

“Maximalism! I have a collection of antique and vintage artwork that keeps growing and evolving.”

—Eric Doud, Curations Home

"We love seeing classic design trends from the past reemerge, such as unlacquered brass fixtures, wallpaper, and stately window treatments."

—Holly Udouj, Holly Udouj Interiors

“The transition away from large open floor plans to more functional, intimate spaces with unique architectural details.”

—Kricia Palmer, House Calls for Physicians

“My favorite trend currently is a walk-in prep pantry that helps control kitchen clutter. I love the idea of concealing appliances, therefore maximizing countertop space and overall organization.”

—Lisa Stagg, LJ Interiors

“Right now, I like all things brushed gold and natural fiber, such as rattan.”

—Leslie Tetrev, Kitchen & Bath Ideas

“The return of brown furniture. Homes need to look like someone lives there.”

—Scott Paterek, Massimo Interior Design

“I am loving that more people are embracing pattern and color in their homes and aren't afraid to go for an all-over mood. Even with white walls, our clients are less afraid to bring in all the color and texture through art and upholstery. We are here for it!”

—Whitney Romanoff, Meet West Studio

Nana Winters Interior Design

With an insightful vision and efficient hand, interior designer Nana Winters has developed both an eclectic and traditional aesthetic while maintaining a warm spirit. An Arkansas native, Nana began her study of interior design in her home state followed by a successful 14-year career in Dallas, where she served as Vice President of Schooler Kellogg Designs. There, she decorated numerous estates throughout the country, including Texas, Palm Beach, Sun Valley, and the Hamptons. To further develop her design sensibility, Nana has traveled

extensively throughout Europe studying and acquiring 18th and 19th century antiques. In 2007, she relocated to Palm Beach County with her family and established her own design firm, Nana Winters Interior Design. Nana’s designs are intimate yet unique, refined, effortless, and functional. Her talents include balancing space and color and selecting well-crafted furnishings and quality fabrics to create a timeless effect. With her vivacious and approachable personality, Nana is able to connect with each client and translate their needs and desires into beautiful, classic, and livable spaces.

Stacy Sheid Interiors

Stacy Sheid Epps learned the basics of home design while growing up in Mountain Home. “My family had a furniture store, and I was practically raised there,” she says. By the time she was a teenager, she was helping customers and accompanying her parents to market, and, after college, she was well on her way to a career in interior design in Dallas. Before moving back to Arkansas to be closer to family, Stacy also spent several years as a personal assistant, which she describes as an “eye-opening experience that may have taught me more than I could ever imagine.”

With this knowledge and her previous design acumen, she started Stacy Sheid Interiors in Fayetteville in 2010.

Stacy describes her approach as tailored and timeless, and she strives to help clients work within any budget and style to build a home that feels layered and loved. “I usually ask clients what their favorite pieces are and what’s sentimental,” she says. “Furnishings are expensive, and sometimes there’s no need to start from scratch. I like to educate people on what keeps its value, and decorate to keep your home current for years to come.”

870.405.7770

@stacysheidinteriors

FAYETTEVILLE

FAYETTEVILLE

Photo by Mary Kim

Kitchen & Bath Ideas

Leslie Tetrev has been helping clients optimize their interiors for more than 25 years. “I started in the building industry in 1998, specifically in tile and countertops,” she says. “Since then, I have made my focus helping people make better choices during a remodel or new build.” Now, she’s a design consultant at Kitchen & Bath Ideas located inside Metro Appliances & More. The showroom offers prefinished custom cabinetry, tile, plumbing fixtures, and flooring— everything you need to create not only a dream home, but a smart investment.

“Investing in a kitchen or bathroom always adds value to a home,” the designer says. “Having been a licensed real estate agent for six years, those are usually the first areas that a potential buyer is drawn to.

On each project, Leslie prioritizes her client’s style and goals for the space while emphasizing communication to stay within budget and avoid setbacks. “The client is number one,” she says. “I strive to be a good listener and help manage expectations, because I want to have a happy client at the end of the project.”

Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design

Having just celebrated her company’s 10-year anniversary, Kathryn LeMaster’s secret to success is keeping the needs of her clients at the forefront of every project. She achieves this with the help of what she calls her “dream team,” which includes senior designer Emily Parks, junior designer Paula Tony, and Kathryn’s husband and project manager, Forrest Roberts. “Together, we consider ourselves advocates for our clients throughout the process, no matter the scope— from consulting to DIY design plans and full-service packages,” she says.

When she designs, Kathryn is drawn to a happy, unexpected mix of styles to truly represent the fullness of life. “We tailor our service to reflect who our clients are are as individuals, not who I am as a designer.” At its core, Kathryn believes her work is about problemsolving. “Helping clients overcome what’s kept them stuck—schedule or budget constraints, creativity blocks, or lack of experience—is so rewarding,” she says. “I consider it an honor to guide people to homes that contribute to their overall wellbeing and happiness.”

NORTH LITTLE ROCK

LITTLE ROCK

Photo by Forrest Roberts of Addison Jones

What’s your go - to trick for an easy room update?

“Many homes don't have substantial trimwork. If you are working with an older ranch or ’70s spec home, sometimes just painting all of the trim to match the walls creates a cleaner look.”

—Scott Paterek, Massimo Interior Design

“Changing out cabinet pulls, whether switching up the style or finish color, can immediately change the way your kitchen looks. Lighting is also a fun way to update your space. It can give the room a completely different mood.”

“Some new pillows and a suzani across the back of the sofa is a great, easy change, and a patterned lampshade can instantly update a room.”

—Stacy Sheid Epps, Stacy Sheid Interiors

“Lighting, lighting, lighting! A great light fixture can do wonders to instantly reset the feel of a room. Plus, swapping out an old light is something that most can do without hiring a contractor. Adding floor lamps or wall sconces to bring the light down and prevent having to use overhead lights at night also has a huge impact on the mood of a room.”

—Whitney Romanoff, Meet West Studio

"Fresh paint with lighter colors. Another go-to is to declutter and update your accessories—less is best!"

—Debi Davis, Debi Davis Interior Design

—Briony Reynolds, Kaufman By Design West

“Wall coverings. They add depth in a way that no other one item can.”

—Erin Lefler and Meghan Teeter, Lefler Teeter Designs

“Paint and lighting. We are currently helping a young couple who purchased a new-construction home make it their own by adding distinctive paint and changing the lights in the kitchen and dining areas. Now the home looks and feels like them.”

—Casey Sarkin, Casey Sarkin Interior Design

“Rearrange a room, then change out accessories like pillows and art for a quick and easy way to bring new life to a space.”

—Shayla Copas, Shayla Copas Interiors

“Updating lighting and hardware can really bring a space into a whole new decade.”

—Natalie Biles and Stacey Breezeel, Shine Interior Design Studio

Meet West Studio

Interior designer Whitney Romanoff, owner of Meet West Studio, believes a home should be a reflection of the soul. “Meet West merges my passion for travel and home. We like to channel our clients’ inspiration that comes from exploring new places and cultures into their daily lives,” she says. To achieve this, she and her team start the design process by really getting to know their clients, from their favorite places to travel and eat to the music and movies they love. “This helps us pull those collected memories into the design concept, so their home feels very personal.” In addition to full-service design,

Meet West offers consultations and designer-for-a-day packages for those who need “just a little help getting started or making specific selections,” Whitney says. She encourages clients to instill their kitchens and primary suites with features that improve both functionality and aesthetics. “At each step of the design journey, we help transform ordinary spaces into vibrant and memorable ones that function for how our clients live, work, and play,” she says. “Whether it’s a thoughtfully organized appliance cabinet or a perfectly patinated faucet, these details make the process of renovating worth it in the end.”

LITTLE ROCK

Tom Chandler & Associates

IF you are building or renovating. IF you want a one day makeover in your home. IF you need new furnishings. IF you want to enroll in design classes. IF you want these life changing experiences, call Tom Chandler & Associates. His fullservice firm includes a talented team as well as The Chandler School of Interior Decorating. “I have always surrounded myself with a team of great designers,” Tom says. “We are good listeners and can do any style.”

Tom Chandler & Associates focuses on creating spaces that outlast current trends by paying

close attention to the taste and personality of the client. “If it’s the client’s favorite color, it is our favorite color,” he notes of their flexibility. We believe in using the best quality of furniture the client can afford. Additionally, The Chandler School of Interior Decorating is a 10-week course that takes students behind the scenes of the design world. “I have a God-given ability for design and have been fortunate in that I have been able to make a living doing something I love,” Tom says. Clients recognize his passion for design as one that is a standout in the industry.

Vivid Designs

With Vivid Designs, an interior design business she started in 2002, Amber Herring-Doggett continues a long family tradition. Her grandparents and father both were in the furniture business, making her the third generation in the family to work in the industry. “I learned the family traits of great communications, customer service, and the love of making clients happy,” she says.

Amber’s interior design projects range in scope from small refreshes to large remodels. She helps clients get settled in their new homes, consults

on new construction, and helps refresh spaces with new furniture, wallpaper, lighting, and drapes. “My design work comes from my heart, and my biggest joy is seeing my clients’ faces light up,” she says, noting she aims to balance her clients’ budgets and timelines with the best quality products for their spaces. “Your home should be a reflection of you and your family,” she says. “I’m here to offer updated styles, and also to bring you out of your comfort zone and give you the best version of your home possible.”

Photo by Molly Anne Sandefur

501.372.4278 tomchandlerandassociates.com @tchandler_assoc

BENTON

What advice do you have for someone about to hire an interior designer for the first time?

“Do your homework and find someone who is the right fit for you. Talk with friends, look at design publications, check out social media, and, most importantly, interview your designer to make sure your personalities jive and that they can make your ideas come to life.”

—Kevin Walsh, Bear Hill Interiors

"Make sure you know what their design fee is first, and make sure you have seen their work. You'll also want to find someone whose style matches up with your own."

—Debi Davis, Debi Davis Interior Design

“The design process can be a big investment of your time, energy, and budget. Finding a designer you have a natural chemistry and quick rapport with from the start is important, and that can make the long road of a renovation easier and more fun for all.”

“Begin by discovering what your personal style is so you can clearly communicate with the designer. The most important element to working with an interior designer is trusting them to do their job. A designer with creative freedom will perform at their highest level.”

—Erin Lefler and Meghan Teeter, Lefler Teeter Designs

“Look for designers who have a similar style that matches your aesthetic. Set up a time for a consultation so you can ask about their processes and what it looks like to work with them. Design is very personal, so it is important that you enjoy your interior designer’s personality and can be assured that they will be there for you every step of the way.”

“Most clients tell me that hiring a designer is the best decision they made. It is a necessity to find someone that fits with you, and keep looking until you do.”

—Leslie Tetrev, Kitchen & Bath Ideas

“Just because a designer has a popular reputation or your friends have used them doesn't mean they're the right fit for you. You need to make sure you find someone who understands your vision (if you have one) and who can pull it off. You need to be able to openly communicate your taste and opinions. Don't be scared to veto things if you don't like them, but also have enough faith in them to bring the project together.

—Briony Reynolds, Kaufman By Design West

—Beth Reed, Interiors by Beth Reed

—Whitney Romanoff, Meet West Studio

What advice do you have for someone about to hire an interior designer for the first time?

“Our current world has boundless access to all things. Some people think just because you can order something online and save money with shipping, it’s a financially savvy idea, but at the end of the day, most of the e-commerce websites don't talk about scale, quality, and identifying and creating a space that's uniquely yours. Hiring an interior designer is a better investment in the long run and will help foster your own unique style.”

—Nana Winters, Nana Winters Interior Design

“It is important to choose someone you feel comfortable with and can trust. An interior designer can save you money, time, and boost the resale value of your home. Our main goal as designers is to create a home that our clients love and enjoy.”

—Lisa Stagg, LJ Interiors

“Do your research and then trust your designer! The more you are willing to trust us and our design process, the better the project results and the happier you will be in the end.”

—Natalie Biles and Stacey Breezeel, Shine Interior Design Studio

"It's easy to feel inundated with options and styles in today's market, but hiring an interior designer is the best way to ensure your money is spent in the most effective ways."

—Holly Udouj, Holly Udouj Interiors

"Reach out and inquire sooner than you think you need to, as most designers have limited availability and stay on a rotating wait list anywhere from a few weeks to several months out. It’s never too early to get preliminary discussions going and let your favorite designer know you want to work with them on an upcoming project, be it next season or next year even."

—Kathryn LeMaster, Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design

“Have them over for an initial consultation. Are they listening? Do you have a comfort level with them? This can be a very personal relationship and in the end, your home should reflect your tastes and serve your lifestyle.”

—Scott Paterek, Massimo Interior Design

“An interior designer creates a road map for your design project. We are a great resource to review floor plans, help with space planning, and improve the flow of your home. Having a designer will help you avoid costly mistakes and make sure your home is unified in its look from room to room.”

—Eric Doud, Curations Home

leflerteeterdesigns.com

Dennis McCann

The houses depicted in Dennis McCann’s pastel works could be a nywhere . Mostly modest dwellings with siding and pan-type window awnings, they will seem familiar to anyone who has driven around the outskirts of city life in the South. And while Dennis insists his interest in them lies in the hard-edged shadows created when the light hits just right, it’s worth noting that many of his subjects are from the neighborhood where he grew up in North Little Rock. “That’s sort of my slice of life,” he says. Such is the setting for “The Neighbors,” a piece he completed in 2015 from photographs taken on a sunny day.

Influenced by the work of American painters Edward Hopper, Robert Cottingham, and Al Allen—the last of whom was a well-regarded Arkansas artist and one of Dennis’s instructors in college—Dennis started his career as a painter. Now, most of his work is in pastels. The medium offers immediacy, yet still allows him to build layer upon layer, saturating the paper with hues in a style of clean-lined realism that's controlled in some

areas and more painterly in others. “I used to be real tight. But when I loosened up and stood back, it looked more realistic," he says, pointing to the foliage in “The Neighbors" as an example of this effect.

After earning both bachelors and masters degrees in fine art, Dennis later got a degree in teaching, though never used it—unlike his wife and son, who share his artistic nature. Instead, he was a firefighter. “What motivated me to pursue that was they offered a 24 hours on, 48 off work schedule,” he says. “I had been selling typewriters five days a week and trying to find weekends to work.” His 31-year career with the Little Rock Fire Department allowed him the uninterrupted time in the studio he was looking for. “Most artists, I think they’re artists because that’s just what they are,” he says. “They may have another thing that pays the bills, but they can’t help themselves; they’re sort of addicted to it. I think that’s me.” Dennis’s work is available through Justus Fine Art Gallery in Hot Springs and Boswell Mourot Fine Art in Little Rock. Visit mccannfineart.com for more information.

“The Neighbors” by Dennis McCann 30” x 42” soft pastel on paper

Written by Stephanie Maxwell Newton. Images courtesy of Dennis McCann