At Home in Arkansas | October 2022

ARKANSAS’ BREAST HEALTH EXPERTS.

Dr. BREAST the region’s most renowned breast Physician

Dr.

Stand Out

Fall 2022 is all about going bold. Incorporate these beautiful must-haves into your fabulous fall fashion for a look that’s sure to stand out.

1 Yellow Gold and Diamond Link Necklace, $13,895

Stay on trend with this gold and diamond link necklace. Set in 14K yellow gold and featuring 12.65 carat total weight diamond, this piece is sure to become a favorite. Pair with a sweater this fall for an extraordinary look you’ll find nowhere else.

2 Renaissance Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold with Malachite and Green Chrome Diopside, $8,800 Cooler weather means it’s time to add layers! Warm 18K yellow gold pairs beautifully with the rich, green tones found in this extraordinary malachite bracelet by David Yurman. Why stop at one? Complete the look with a bracelet stack that fits your fall wardrobe.

3 Green Tourmaline Three Stone Emerald Cut Ring, $17,895

Discover the natural beauty of gemstones. Set in 18K yellow gold, this emerald cut green tourmaline is surrounded by a halo of diamonds for a sophisticated style. You’re sure to feel elegant wearing this beautiful piece to your next fall formal occasion.

Shop these looks and more in-store or online at SissysLogCabin.com

Publisher

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

Editor in Chief

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

Managing Editor

Tiffany Adams tiffany@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 Graphic Designers

Lauren Cerrato and Amy Vaughn

Contributing Photographers

Connor North Goad and Rett Peek

Contributing Stylists

Lauren Cerrato and Steph Smith

Account Managers

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

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

Brand Manager

Becca Moore (ext. 100) becca@athomearkansas.com

Billing billing@athomearkansas.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Call 818.286.3115 or email subscribe@athomearkansas.com for customer service.

P.O. Box 15065 N. Hollywood, CA 91615-5065

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

I was a teacher’s kid growing up. On days when school wasn’t in session but teachers had to work, I often found myself back on campus—except with different rules. Suddenly I could go into the teachers’ breakroom to use the vending machine and poke around offices and stairwells

where children weren’t typically admitted. Another teacher’s kid and I explored together, bonding over the exclusive access our moms’ new jobs at our school permitted us. We’d been unwittingly granted a glimpse behind the curtain, and knowledge felt like power.

I think about this when I consider why it feels so good to peek into the real homes of industry professionals like designer Jill Lawrence (page 43) and builder Bill Parkinson (page 54). We’ve been privileged to share their work for clients often in these pages. But have you ever wondered what their own homes look like? This month you get to find out! Have fun looking around. There are no vending machines, but you won’t believe some of the fabulous details they’ve each worked into their personal homes.

Latest

At Home in Arkansas is proud to sponsor a visit from designer Kathryn Crisp Greeley, author of new release The Collected Cottage, as part of the Central Arkansas Library System’s annual Six Bridges Book Festival. Join us for a reception and book signing at 5 p.m. October 27 at Providence Design in a concurrent celebration of the store’s ninth anniversary. Visit our blog for a Q&A with the author and more event details (athomearkansas.com/blog).

Euna Mae’s owner Amy Hannon releases her second book, Gather & Give: Sharing God’s Heart Through Everyday Hospitality, on October 18. This tome strips away the feelings of perfectionism associated with entertaining and views hospitality through a biblical lens. Order your copy at amyhannon.com.

In August, Little Rock designer Scott Paterek opened a Fayetteville location of his store, Massimo Interiors, at 34 E. Center St., Suite 1. It features Scott’s contemporary-meetsclassic aesthetic in home furnishings and décor as well as original art, candles, and jewelry. Keep up with the latest on Instagram (@massimo_interiors).

After almost two decades in retail and interiors, Eric Doud is opening his own design showroom called Curations Home. The store will offer a mix of new and old, including upholstered furnishings, antiques, and vintage finds at 8201 Cantrell Road, Suite 130 in Pavilion in the Park. Watch for news about an October opening on Instagram (@curationslr).

PS With this issue we bid adieu to managing editor Tiffany Adams, who has been on staff with At Home in Arkansas for just shy of 10 years. There’s no doubt the magazine would not be what it is today without her contributions, so it’s with gratitude that we wish her well on her next venture! (And don’t worry, she won’t be a stranger; I have a feeling you’ll see her byline in our pages again soon enough.)

CORRECTION

In our September edition, the homeowners featured on page 46 (Lisa and John Hayes) were incorrectly attributed. We regret the error.

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

Photos by Rett Peek (portrait) and courtesy of publishers Photo by Rett Peek

The blues. It’s still red-hot in Mississippi.

Hey, hey, the blues is more than all right here in Mississippi. a stone’s throw from the legendary crossroads, you can you can into the roots of American music at the B.B. Museum Delta Interpretive Center, the Delta Blues Museum, GRAMMY Museum® rhythm at

Jimmy “Duck” Holmes | Blue Front Cafe | Bentonia, Mississippi

Contributors

RETT PEEK, PHOTOGRAPHER

Open any issue of At Home in Arkansas from the previous decade and you’re bound to land on a feature story shot by the inimitable Rett Peek. Since he started photographing interiors and architecture 13 years ago, his work has appeared in national titles such as Better Homes & Gardens, Garden & Gun, Southern Living, and Traditional Home. When he’s not on set, you can find Rett enjoying a day on Lake Ouachita with his wife, two children, and pup. Find him on Instagram (@rettpeek).

LAUREN CERRATO, STYLIST

Illinois native Lauren Cerrato has lived in Arkansas for more than 12 years now. With a background in graphic design and a love for home décor, Lauren’s interest in interiors led her to the role of art director for At Home in Arkansas from 2017-2020 before stepping away to spend time with her young son, Leo. This is where she perfected the art of the casually tousled throw blanket—a feat more difficult than it looks. This month, we’re happy to display her talents in styling and story layouts once again. Find Lauren on Instagram (@ilohdesign).

CONNOR NORTH GOAD, PHOTOGRAPHER

Most weekends out of the year, Connor North Goad is the man behind the camera at weddings all over the state. Outside of capturing couples’ big days, the photographer enjoys working as a barista at a local coffee shop, watching movies, hiking, eating pizza, and playing with his dog, Rickon. For this issue, Connor traveled a couple of hours northeast of his home base in Little Rock to shoot Jonesboro’s charming and vibrant Main Street for our Discover section. Find Connor at thenorthlens.com.

Larry West, Jr., Named 2022 Heart of the Home Recipient

The heart of a home is the sacred space where everyone gathers, shares laughs, and makes memories. Thanks to the generosity of Larry West, Jr. and L West Jr Designs, Home for Healing guests now have a special place like this in their home away from home.

For parents of NICU infants, individuals undergoing cancer treatment, or caregivers of someone in the ICU, Home for Healing is a

central Arkansas nonprofit providing convenient and free lodging in a peaceful and restorative environment. The first time Larry visited the Home, he immediately recognized the importance of a place like this for Arkansans. He generously offered his incredible interior design talents to make over the entire two-story Markham Street residence. The biggest part of this transformation came in the Home’s

boardroom, which Larry reimagined as a communal living area where guests can gather to play games, create art, share stories, and make memories— all while supporting one another during challenging times.

For this reason, Larry will be honored as the 2022 Heart of the Home recipient at this year’s Monster Bash, Home for Healing’s largest fundraiser of the year on Friday, October 28.

Little Rock designer Larry West, Jr. will be honored at Home for Healing’s Monster Bash for his thoughtful creation of a communal living space at the nonprofit organization. Find more information, including tickets for Monster Bash, at homeforhealing.org.

Photos by Rett Peek (mirrors) and courtesy of vendors

From sage selections to mossy hues, we’ve been seeing green in a whole new light

Porcelain

“Ball

Pleasant

Vietri “Old St. Nick” large oval platter with bicycle, $249. The Everyday Chef, Jonesboro THEEVERYDAYCHEF.NET

Enamel-dipped flatware and linen napkins, $8-11 each. Box Turtle, Little Rock SHOPBOXTURTLE.COM

Vietri “Wildlife” pheasant cheese board, $189. Tipton & Hurst, Little Rock TIPTONHURST.COM

Le Creuset 4.5-quart round dutch oven in Artichaut, $375. Eggshells Kitchen Co., Little Rock EGGSHELLSKITCHENCOMPANY.COM

Brass “Vanderbilt” wine chiller, $175. Providence Design, Little Rock PROVIDENCELTDDESIGN.COM

Pair of gold-leaf and frosted glass champagne flutes, $50. Fresh i.d., Little Rock 501.478.6006

Prep a meal and set the table with these entertaining pieces that are perfect for the fall season

Photos by Rett Peek and courtesy of vendors

OCTOBER 20-30

SIXBRIDGES BOOKFESTIVAL.ORG

SIX BRIDGES BOOK FESTIVAL

SIX BRIDGES BOOK FESTIVAL

OCTOBER

SIX BRIDGES BOOK FESTIVAL

SIX BRIDGES BOOK FESTIVAL

SIX BRIDGES BOOK FESTIVAL

SIX BRIDGES BOOK FESTIVAL

SIX BRIDGES BOOKOCTOBER

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SIXBRIDGES BOOKFESTIVAL.ORG

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas State Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

BRIDGES BOOK FESTIVAL part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas State Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas State Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas State Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas State Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

SIXBRIDGES BOOKFESTIVAL.ORG

SIXBRIDGES BOOKFESTIVAL.ORG

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas State Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

SIXBRIDGES BOOKFESTIVAL.ORG

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little

The Festival is supported/made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Arkansas Humanities Council, Arkansas State Library, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Junior League of Little Rock is a partner for the Festival’s family events.

Dreamy Linens

The “Retortoli” collection in Taupe from Ann Gish.

1 & 2 Matelassé coverlet and sham in Striae Oatmeal, “Gehry” velvet and linen pillow in Caramel, and “Lydia” embroidered plaster decorative pillow in Linen. Assortment of throw blankets from the Marie Flangian for Annie Selke collection, including colorways of the “Caldwell,” “Langham,” “Lorfield,” and “Evelyn” throws. All from Pine Cone Hill by Annie Selke. 3 Lili Alessandra’s “Dawn” coverlet in Natural and “Peru” pillows in Dark Sand and Platinum.

5

6

Local Retailers

ANN GISH

Art of Design, shadavari.com; Fig Modern, figmodern.com; Phoenix Interiors, facebook.com/phoenixinteriorslr

BELLA NOTTE

Blu D’or Interiors, bludorinteriors.com; Cobblestone & Vine, cobblestoneandvine.com

LILI ALESSANDRA

Jayson Cain, facebook.com/ jaysoncaininteriors; Statements for the Home, statementsforthehome.com

MATOUK

Bear Hill Interiors, bearhillinteriors.com; Cobblestone & Vine, cobblestoneandvine.com

PINE CONE HILL BY ANNIE SELKE

Avenue Design Company, facebook.com/ avenuedesignco; Cobblestone & Vine, cobblestoneandvine.com; GW Lighting and Home, gwlightingandhome.com; Park Hill Home, facebook.com/parkhillhome; Lighting Emporium, lightingemporium.com

Please note that while we have listed local retailers for each of the items shown here, vendors may only have these pieces by special order. Additionally, many of these lines are available to the trade through your favorite local interior designer.

4 & 5 “Taline” and “Harlow” square pillows and “Harlow” throw blanket in Parchment, “Lynette” square pillow and “Loulah” throw blanket in Rouge, “Carmen” lumbar pillow in Pearl, and “Harlow” accent pillow in Mahogany. “Vienna” throw blankets in Jade, Midnight, and Fig. All from Bella Notte Linens.

6 Matouk’s “Classic Chain Scallop” in Mocha. Shown with “August Plaid” pillowcases in Sable.

We opened our doors in 1949. Our focus then and now is to bring our customers a quality product to match the quality of service we provide.

400 N. Magnolia St. | North Little Rock, AR | 72114 pchdwe.com | sales@pchdwe.com | 501-224-1724

Since purchasing their lakeside Hot Springs home in 2006, April and Coby Hunt have worked their way through several renovations—but the kitchen always seemed to fall to the bottom of the list. “We knew it was going to be a major project,” Coby says.

While looking at a past issue of At Home in Arkansas, April became inspired by a kitchen Alissa Oates Hastings of Restructure Design had created in Hot Springs Village. She decided to reach out to see if the designer could work the same magic in their home. Upon arriving, Alissa found a dated L-shaped kitchen with countertops and cabinetry that didn’t match and little to no molding or detail. “We wanted a more modern style with clean, sleek lines and no clutter, but we were stumped on how to achieve that,” April says.

Alissa had the couple create a wish list for the space, which included a large island for gathering, double ovens for baking, as well as the aforementioned style upgrade along with a dedicated beverage bar and easy-to-clean, unified flooring throughout the space. From there, the designer reworked the layout to incorporate these must-haves and infused style through a palette of gray, black, and white design elements.

“Construction for this project was taking place at the first peak of the pandemic, so we quickly started learning about availability issues and how we could move in a direction to address this,” Alissa says of her company, which offers both design and general contracting services. “Alissa not only worked within our budget, she listened to our ideas and then would come back with a design that really took our space to the next level,” Coby says.

A newly created beverage bar has built-in wine storage as well as a cabinet for the couple’s coffee maker. The backsplash seen in the kitchen is repeated here to unify the areas.

BEFORE

1

COUNTER EFFECT

The island is topped with Cambria’s engineered quartz in Brittanicca, a design that brings movement and depth to the central hub.

2

LIGHTEN UP

To keep the space over the island open and airy, Alissa chose a five-light linear fixture with see-through glass shades.

3

SQUARE PAIR

Opting for clean drawer fronts with no trim allowed Alissa to experiment with the hardware. She used a pair of pulls and placed them in opposite directions to create a square handle.

GRAY AREA

Initially wanting classic white subway tile on the backsplash, the Hunts were convinced to bring in more contrast with a gray version that has added geometric interest. Hunt, homeowner

4

“We wanted a more modern style with clean, sleek lines and no clutter, but we were stumped on how to achieve that.”

Feels Like Fall

Designer Casey Roark sets the scene for all things autumn in a Fayetteville backyard

Twenty years ago Casey Roark started her Northwest Arkansas design business doing While You Were Out-style bedroom makeovers. That quickly led to full-scale renovations and new-construction builds via word of mouth. However, she still has a great appreciation for the small things—namely, live plants and seasonal décor. “Seasonal design allows me to get creative. It’s fun to step away from the day-to-day and use things that are fresh,” the designer says, noting her love of gardening at her own home.

For her friends Leigh Ann and Jason Pleimann, she turned her attention to an outdoor gathering space. “When we’re at their house, this is where we congregate,” Casey says, adding the couple often hosts game-day watch parties here. “Leigh Ann really wants to make things beautiful and elegant for everyone who comes to her

house,” the designer says. “She has impeccable taste but is also very practical. When you walk into their home, it feels like you can sit down and have a cup of coffee and be cozy.” To translate this sense of hospitable charm to the outdoors, Casey added a comfortable sofa and lounge chairs to create a conversation area alongside an existing dining space, and then brought in all things autumn.

“For Leigh Ann, fall trumps Christmas,” Casey says. “She absolutely loves it, but she didn’t want the décor to be overdone or gaudy.” To this point, everything blends with the space’s furnishings and the exterior of the home. Loads of orange, white, and green pumpkins along with fall plantings fill the space, bringing the feel of a bountiful autumn garden to the backyard. “It’s such a beautiful time of year—especially in our area— and it brings me so much joy to do this,” Casey says of the end result.

IN WITH THE PLANTS

“Oftentimes, the outdoors are let go because people have put so much time, effort, and money into their build or reno. But you can really bring it to life with just a few seasonal pieces and plants,” Casey says, adding that Leigh Ann enjoys nurturing live plants and rotates them out for different colors and textures as the seasons change.

Design Resources

SEASONAL DESIGN AND PLANTINGS

Casey Roark, Casey Roark Designs PLANTS AND POTS

Westwood Gardens OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS Jack Wills

A Local Gem of a Gallery

Nestled in Little Rock’s Pleasant Ridge Shopping Center, Art Group Gallery is a gem for art lovers in the city and beyond. Filled with a range of styles and mediums, from ceramics and blown glass to watercolors and oils on canvas, the setting may seem like any other gallery. However, it’s anything but typical. “The term ‘hybrid’ best describes our gallery structure because it isn’t a traditional gallery where the art is curated entirely by the gallery owner, and it isn’t a co-op, where artists rent space from an owner,” says general manager Holly Tilley. Instead, she explains, the gallery is co-owned by the artists and led by a team of elected managers. “As a hub for professional artists working together, we can

accomplish much more than any artist could individually.”

This unique set-up is a boon for collectors as well; when you walk into Art Group Gallery and select a piece, there’s a likelihood you can meet its creator, since some artists have studio space on-site and take turns working the floor. “The experience of purchasing original, local art directly from the artist is the real treasure,” Holly says. “There’s a story behind each work, and hearing about them from the artists themselves adds meaning to any art purchase.”

Art Group Gallery artists also pride themselves on having created an atmosphere that is open, friendly, inviting, and fun—particularly on

opening nights for the group’s quarterly exhibits. “As artists, we use our creativity in planning these art events, and you’ll always see something new,” she says. “Sometimes after the doors are closed, there might be a dance party—but we’ll never disclose who can dance as well as they can paint … and who can’t!”

Drop by Art Group Gallery at 11525 Cantrell Road #910 in Little Rock in Pleasant Ridge Town Center. Find out more at artgrouparkansas.com.

Image courtesy of Mark Wagner Photography

Ask about our Online Bridal Registry! Registry Experts.

Discover Jonesboro & The Delta

Along the Arkansas edge of the Mississippi River is a region teeming with history and opportunity

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER CONNOR NORTH GOAD

When Ted Herget answers my phone call it’s after 8 p.m. in the French Alps. Surprisingly, he doesn’t ask me to call back when he’s returned to the States; I say one word about Jonesboro and he jumps right in. He wants to talk about the past, present, and future of the Delta—its agriculture, music, history—and, of course, its connection to the outdoors. This all-or-nothing passion is in part what’s led his outdoor lifestyle brand, Gearhead Outfitters, to such great success over the past 25 years.

Like many dreams, Ted’s started small. He was inspired to open the branded retail store after working one season in a ski shop in Breckenridge, Colorado. “I moved back and wanted that mountain feel; I realized you don’t have to be in the mountains to have it. There’s just an attitude when everyone’s outside and active,” he says, noting this quality is exactly what makes him feel so at home where he is—seven time zones away—while we chat. He describes the moment he stood at one end of Main Street in Jonesboro and realized his hometown had the potential to take on the same hum of energy

he loved so much living in a ski town: “At the time there were just a couple of offices downtown. It’s taken a while, but then you get a pulse going,” he says. “We’ve been working on downtown for over 20 years now and there’s family-owned restaurants and people there day and night. It’s very authentic. The people who are there choose it, you know?”

The flagship location of Gearhead in downtown Jonesboro is just one of 19 the brand now boasts, and it’s stocked with equipment for camping, hiking, cycling, climbing, and even snow and water sports. While his personal love of mountain life might be what drew Ted to open the store, he believes it’s also a natural fit for the Delta. “If you look at the culture and history of the area, starting with Helena and heading north, it’s just such a bio-diverse region,” he says, also touching on opportunities for hiking and cycling around Crowley’s Ridge that make the area so amenable to tourists. “When you look at what brings people from, say, Bentonville to the Delta, it’s the hunting, the fishing, and the outdoors. You play to your strengths,” he says. Read on for a few of our favorite ways to discover Jonesboro and the Delta.

—Ted Herget

“Jonesboro is a cool mix. It’s very authentic, it’s grit and grind.”

A bear models wares at Gearhead Outfitters

A latte and scones served fresh at The Recovery Room

SHOP

THE EVERYDAY CHEF (theeverydaychef.net) in Jonesboro is a must-visit for cooking and entertaining enthusiasts. With cookware, linens, serving pieces, and even grilling goods and tabletop appliances, you’ll find everything you need (and probably a few things you didn’t even know you needed!). Take a moment for self-care at FIZZ FACIAL BAR (fizzfacialbar.com), also in Jonesboro, where their efficient sessions are set to have you in and out in 30 minutes—all under $50 while leaving your skin refreshed and your mind relaxed. Plan on making a habit of it? Check out their monthly membership for perks.

DINE

ROOTS RESTAURANT (rootsrestaurant303.com) in Jonesboro offers a unique marriage of Arkansan and Ecuadorian flavors for a modern take on Southern cuisine. Influenced by the agriculture integral to their region, the menu at Roots prioritizes seasonal, local ingredients for every dish. For breakfast, drop by THE RECOVERY ROOM COFFEE & BISTRO (therecoveryroomjonesboro.com) to start your day with a cup of joe and a pastry. The Main Street Jonesboro spot also serves lunch as well as a mouth-watering Saturday

brunch. For lunch or dinner in Stuttgart, visit OPEN SEASON SPORTS BAR & GRILL (instagram.com/ openseasonsportsbarandgrill). Whether you’re looking for a night of live music or a down-home Sunday lunch, the spacious restaurant has a plentiful menu and often hosts entertainment.

VISIT

The Delta is a region ripe for a road trip, so hit the highway and take in the sights while winding through patchworks of farmland. ARKANSAS DELTA BYWAYS (deltabyways.com) has resources such as a map marked with landmarks and lists of mustsees for foodies, birders, genealogy researchers, and history buffs alike. While Stuttgart might be the rice and duck capital of the world, you’ll find plenty of other reasons to include this Delta town on your tour. Explorers of all ages will enjoy a trip to the MUSEUM OF THE ARKANSAS GRAND PRAIRIE (grandprairiemuseum.org). From the farm machinery exhibits to Waterfowl Wing, a space devoted to the area’s rich duck hunting history, there’s lots to see and learn in this local treasure.

Murals by local artists Beau Jones (left) and Shannon Lamb are part of local gallery Art House’s “Selfie Wall” at Monroe Avenue and Main Street.

The Fashion Files

1 Greylin “Bonnie” cable knit sweater. Tulips, Little Rock, tulipsinlittlerock.com

2 “Robin” ivory clutch with interchangeable chain shoulder strap and adjustable cross-body strap. Box Turtle, Little Rock, shopboxturtle.com

3 MOTHER Denim “Runaway” step fray skinny-flare jeans in A Night in Havana wash. Indigo, Little Rock, shopindigo.com

4 & 5 Roberto Coin 18K yellow gold “Navarra” bangle bracelet with diamonds and 18K yellow gold and diamond woven three-row necklace. Sissy’s Log Cabin, Pine Bluff, Little Rock, Jonesboro, Memphis, Conway, and West Little Rock, sissyslogcabin.com

Fall into the season’s coolest styles with featured finds from local boutiques

Photos by Rett Peek (necklace) courtesy of vendors

A New Adventure

Designer Jill Lawrence builds an abode where the amenities and style of a luxury hotel meet the personalization of a cherished home

Little Rock designer Jill Lawrence had been drawing a “someday” house for years. Thinking she and her husband, Frank, would pull the trigger on a move when their daughter left for college in 2022, she was steadily dreaming and taking her time to finish the plans. Then came the market rush of 2020 and the process began to move more quickly.

Finding a lot in a wooded west Little Rock neighborhood, the Lawrences began to perfect their loose plans for what they refer to as an “empty nest” house. “This house is everything we want our next phase of life to be,” Jill says. “It’s hospitable, and we now have the ability to host at a moment’s notice. It’s also very accessible and user-friendly,” she says, noting all the main living spaces are on one level. “Our former house was very traditional, and we loved its footprint, so we went with that same layout downstairs but without the walls,” she explains. Walking into the home, guests enter through a small vestibule

tented in fabric that opens to one large space divided into four quadrants—a kitchen, a dining room, a formal living room, and a den—that allow for overall togetherness as well as more intimate areas within the design.

Jill also used the project as somewhat of an interior design laboratory. “I wanted to try as many new techniques as possible; if it failed it was in my own house, not a client’s. There was a lot of learning for me professionally,” she says. For example, new experiences were found in the installation of cork flooring in the majority of the home, an indoor fire pit (yes, really!), and a custom, stenciled walkway at the couple’s front door.

As for the aesthetic, Jill treated herself as her own client. “When we dream with clients we always ask, What places do you feel best? For Frank and me, that’s a really great hotel—a place that feels cozy but luxurious. It instantly relaxes us,” she says, adding that these spaces are generally darker and a bit moodier.

Inspired by Hollywood Regency style as well as the homes of designers Kelly Wearstler and Barbara Barry, the facade is a curated balance of modern and traditional elements.

WELL ROUNDED

Playing off the idea of chairs gathered around a coffee table, Jill opted for a round table in the dining room. “I wanted the world’s most comfortable dining chairs,” the designer says. “These feel like tiny club chairs on casters, so no one ever wants to leave the table.” A full-service beverage station, including a coffee bar, filtered water station, and two refrigerated drawers, is concealed in cabinetry along the wall.

RAISING THE BAR

With a hotel lobby bar as her inspiration, Jill created a kitchen that feels glamorous yet remains hardworking. “I did everything short of covering the cooktop to make it feel like it is not a kitchen,” she says. The island features a waterfall countertop and large-scale lamps. Sleek stained cabinetry conceals all the inner workings of the space, from the refrigerator to a fullsize door (at the far right) that leads to a walk-in pantry. The dogwood mural, which was painted by AF Decorative and extends into the dining area, is a nod to Frank’s love of the flowering tree as well as the home’s subtle Asian influence.

To this point, one of the first decisions was the marble on the kitchen island, which became the inspiration for the entire home’s palette. “Nothing in this house is white,” Jill says. “I love white, but I wanted to see if I could design without it.”

Aside from the palette, overscaled windows played an important role in bringing light into the main living spaces as well as the couple’s bedroom. “Light was extremely important; none of this would’ve worked without proper lighting,” the designer says, adding the importance of fixtures and lamps throughout to create dimension. “People don’t know why it feels good but it does,” she says. In the same manner, soft fabrics and inviting furnishings found throughout the home seem to invite guests to linger, while a mix of vintage and acquired accessories strike interest as well as conversation.

AH

“Rustique” Benjamin Moore

Jill worked with Cantrell Gallery to custom frame sheets of amate, an artisan paper handmade from bark, on top of a neutral textile.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

In the open floor plan, the more formal living room (above) and den sit opposite one another. Four comfortable swivel chairs are gathered around a brass coffee table, a design Jill says encourages conversation and turns the focus to the people in the room. In what the family lovingly refers to as the “TV pit,” a 13-foot sectional invites relaxation across from a television that hangs on the firepit hood. “Again, we wanted the firepit to add to the hotel lobby feel,” Jill says. “The challenge was in creating one that would pass code.” The result is a version that operates on biofuel, making it safe for indoor use as well as eco-friendly.

Near the stairwell, a jib door opens to reveal a powder bath outfitted in Schumacher’s equestrian-inspired “Faubourg” wallpaper. “It’s fun to watch guests discover things like this in the house; it kind of makes them feel like a kid,” Jill says.

“Taupe Tone” Sherwin-Williams

OPENING UP

Prior to the build, the Lawrences traveled with friends to Sonoma County, California. Inspired by the vacation home where they stayed, Jill envisioned a contemporary floating staircase in the center of their house. Custom built by Khanh Nguyen of Iron World, the stairs artfully ascend to the second floor library. The open design allowed for a small desk space to be tucked underneath.

SECOND STORY

Upstairs, a library and lounge area (above left) stores the couple’s collection of books and wine. “We jokingly call it the winebrary,” Jill says. A whimsical, woodland-inspired wallpaper brings personality to the hallway (above), which leads to the children’s rooms, guest suite, and craft area (left). Originally designated as a walk-in mechanical room, Jill began gathering leftover materials from around the house (including the cork flooring, pegboard, and wallpaper seen in the shelves) to create the craft space. Hannah Wilson of Simply Abode helped organize the room to function at peak.

“Black Fox” Sherwin-Williams

“There’s not a ton of square footage devoted to the bath but it’s such a tranquil, transporting spot.”

MASTERFUL MIX

Positioned on the front of the home, the primary suite has an enclosed courtyard that allows light to stream into the rooms while also providing privacy. Both the bedroom and bath are a study in the contrast of light and dark. For example, the cozy bedroom features a dark grasscloth on the walls that contrasts with the lighter seating area and bedding. Similarly, the bath mixes streamlined dark cabinetry with cream limestone floors, marble countertops, and a Tadelakt waterproof plaster technique in the shower.

Perfecting the Process

Jessica and Bill Parkinson build on years of experience to create a family home suited for this season of life

WRITER AND STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK

A trio of paintings, slip-covered host chairs, and blueish-gray kitchen cabinets connect the spaces in this open floor plan.

There’s no slowing down in the life of a builder. Just ask Jessica and Bill Parkinson, owners of Parkinson Building Group in central Arkansas. This house high on a hill in Roland’s Waterview Estates is their sixth new construction, and they’re certain it won’t be their last. “Every time we build we learn things that work and things that don’t work,” Bill says, noting there’s an element of freedom in knowing each residence is not necessarily their forever home.

The cycle of building, moving, and building again has also allowed the Parkinsons to address their changing needs as a family. “The blessing of being able to build every few years is you can change it according to your stage of life,” Jessica says. “In our last house, we had a playroom upstairs for playing chase, Nerf gun wars, and all the toys and noise that come with those years.” With a downstairs media room right off the main living areas and easy access to the pool, this house was built with teenagers in mind. It’s well suited for adults, too; the open floor plan, large kitchen island, and breathtaking views of the outdoors are all conducive to hosting a crowd. “We’re both from Arkansas and our families are here,” Bill says. “Hosting gatherings and making this house a really functional entertaining space was important.”

Along with tweaks to the layout, every new build also allows the Parkinsons to explore their style through finishes and furnishings with the help of Mona Thompson Phelan of Providence Design.

WHAT A CONCEPT

One constant throughout each of the Parkinsons’ homes has been an open-concept floor plan, which allows for easy entertaining and, in this house in particular, sweeping views. The streamlined design continues in the kitchen where they opted to forgo upper cabinetry. “I have a ton of storage in the island, and open shelving holds our everyday plates,” Jessica says. These shelves are flanked by a paneled refrigerator and pantry-style door concealing rows of drawers, smart solutions that also bring symmetry to the design.

“Whitestone” Benjamin Moore

“An area I struggle with throughout the process is having too many choices; seeing every single option is overwhelming. That’s where Providence comes in,” Jessica says. “Because he is a builder, the construction elements—countertops, paint colors, those kinds of things—that’s what they’re dreaming of and talking about during their leisure time,” Mona says. “Jessica did a lot of the footwork, then we’d meet and I’d weigh in.”

For this house everyone agreed on a streamlined design, a departure from the European-inspired interiors of their previous home. This style is manifested in minimal millwork, a neutral palette, and a mix of new and old furnishings. “They’ve evolved into a much cleaner style over time,” Mona says. “This house is a little more modern; not contemporary, but simpler.” Parkinson

“Everything here is focused on the view.”

FRESH IDEA

What the Parkinsons refer to as a “working pantry” is tucked behind a wall in the kitchen. With an extra refrigerator, dishwasher, and sink as well as the microwave, a coffee station, and a drop zone en route to the garage, this workhorse room takes the home’s functionality—and its ability to host large gatherings—to the next level. “That’s one feature we’ll never want to live without again,” Jessica says of the multipurpose space. Outside, an herb and vegetable garden provides the family with fresh, seasonal plantings.

The powder bath’s gray-blue vanity and clean style echo the comfortable elegance found throughout the home.

DESIGN ON DISPLAY

In the living room, contemporary built-ins hold books, family photos, and meaningful objects d’art. “We started helping them collect antique weathered books previously and continued that here,” Mona says. “It’s been fun to see the things they’ve acquired go to the next house and how they’re used differently,” she adds. Case in point, a Louis XIV chair purchased several years ago finds new life recovered in a neutral fabric and paired with a leopard print pillow.

“White Dove” Benjamin Moore

SERENITY FOUND

In the primary bedroom, Jessica’s directives were for it to feel light, elegant, and comfortable. Mona commissioned a custom four-poster bed by blacksmith Anthony Billingsley. “We do those for a lot of clients these days, but this was the first one; Anthony calls it the ‘Providence bed’ now,” Mona says. The bathroom is all about symmetry. A soaking tub provides the focal point between his-and-hers vanities, and a porcelain tile cut in half and laid in a herringbone pattern brings style underfoot without straying from material selections found throughout other areas of the home.

Front Briley Rogers, Luis Torres, Alicia Duncan, Alexis Gray, Mark Baldwin, Kristin Kuhn Philip Moore, Richard Jordan, Dan Parkinson, Bill Parkinson, Doug McNeil, Clayton Bowers, Mike Jackson

1Screen Time

Starting at age 20, most people should have cholesterol levels checked every five years as high cholesterol is one of the leading causes for both heart disease and stroke. Doctors may recommend having your levels checked more often as you age or if you have Type 2 diabetes, are overweight, or have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol.

Preventative screenings are an important part of overall wellness, allowing doctors to catch possible health issues early and tailor care to your needs. Here are five tests to help ensure you’re living life to the fullest

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While Type 1 diabetes is a genetic disorder that usually manifests early in life, Type 2 diabetes is typically a result of lifestyle-related factors and develops later in adults. Having a blood sugar test every three years starting in your 30s is an important way to catch (and even delay or prevent) Type 2 diabetes before it can cause serious health complications.

SI JOINT FUSION

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Sources: The Centers for Disease Control (cdc.gov) and the National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov)

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a mammogram every two years for women 50-74 years old, you should start discussing your personal risk and health history with your doctor as early as age 40.

Osteoporosis is a medical condition most common in women in which the bones become brittle and are more likely to break. Bone density testing is recommended for women 65 years and older, but you might benefit from a screening as early as your 40s if you have certain risk factors, such as a parent who has broken a hip. Eating a healthy diet high in calcium and Vitamin D, performing regular weight-bearing exercises, and avoiding smoking and alcohol use are all steps you can take to improve bone health.

Take 10 minutes every few months to self-check your body for moles and report changes in size, color, shape, or texture to your physician in case any growths could indicate the warning signs of skin cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends all Americans between the ages of 20 and 40 get a professional skin exam every three years, with increased frequency depending on risk factors such as fair skin, a family history of melanoma, or an abundance of moles.

MIND THE ZAP

No matter your age, gender, or background, maintaining a healthy mental state is just as important as staying physically fit. In addition to managing day-to-day stress through regular exercise and a balanced diet, taking time for yourself can be exactly what your body needs to rest and recharge—whether that’s through a mindful yoga practice, downtime with a favorite hobby, or treating yourself to a day at the spa.

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Experience a different approach to fitness with Nooma

Nooma is more than a gym; it’s a mind-body practice that incorporates movement, breathwork, and infrared heat, resulting in a physical and emotional release. The program’s founder, Casey Cox, combines elements of Pilates, yoga, dance, barre, weight training, and music to create a unique approach to whole-body fitness. Here, we spoke with Casey about Nooma’s mission, classes, challenges, and how you can find strength through this practice.

Q: You’ve created a workout program that is more about mind-body balance than simply physical health. What makes the Nooma approach different?

A: The word nooma means, air, breath, and spirit. Everything we do is to connect you to your air, breath and spirit — your nooma. This can’t be done in the same way every day. We are all different every day, and we celebrate and lean into that. Our classes are processes and are best practiced in 2, 4, and 6 week intervals. What we do changes you from the inside out. We meet you where you are. We never push to an impossible ideal but rather celebrate the moments that you take for you

Q: What can someone expect from a Nooma class?

A: We offer movement in yoga, pilates, weight training, barre, dance, cardio, and HIIT, or high-intensity interval training. All of our leaders are trained in our choreography, in our heat, and with our mission in mind. Our classes are challenging, but anyone can do them and start in any class that we offer. We encourage trying different options — or possibilities as we like to call them — taking breaks, and listening to your body. We celebrate those moments. Read the rest of our interview with Casey on our blog (athomearkansas.com/blog).

“There is strength and growth in pushing through something difficult and also pulling yourself back when something is difficult.”

—CASEY OF NOOMA

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11 resources to keep you feeling your best

For Orthopedic Care

Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

Locations Statewide | 501.663.6455 bowenhefleyortho.com

For Cancer Screenings & Care

CARTI

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Pain Treatment Centers of America

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Mathew McConnell

His Art

Reinterpretations of contemporary art in the form of earthenware with bone charcoal and graphite surfaces.

Arkansas Inspiration

His colleagues and students. “As a faculty member in the school of art at the University of Arkansas, I’m surrounded by exceptional artists and thinkers. I can’t help but be energized by them.”

Creative Must-Haves

A deadline. “I can spend months shuffling through ideas and deciding where to start. However, once I feel the pressure of the deadline I can really concentrate, and things start to fall into place in the studio.”

Find His Work

Learn more about Mathew at mathewmconnell.com or follow along on Instagram (@mathew_mcconnell).

Favorite Color

“Charcoal black forever! Honestly though, I look at color a lot, and I find a constant challenge in translating the color from my sources into textures and forms that will ultimately be black in all the works I produce.”

Photo by Rett Peek

On Exhibit

Mathew recently presented a new body of work in Rome, Italy. In 2023, he will have exhibitions in Tulsa at 108 Contemporary and in Denver at David B. Smith Gallery.