At Home in Arkansas | September 2023

Living Well is Our Specialty.

Your dream home is measured in more than square feet. It’s in the personality of each neighborhood. A commute as beautiful as it is convenient. Luxurious amenities – indoors and out. It’s in Chenal, where some of the best restaurants, businesses and venues are nestled among the state’s most scenic views. And our homes? They’re dreamy, too. See what’s available to build or buy.

PotlatchDeltic is an expert at selling quality real estate. Having established some of the most sought-after developments in Central Arkansas, including Chenal Valley in Little Rock and Red Oak Ridge in Hot Springs, the company also offers a wide variety of recreational properties for sale around the state.

FAMILY FEELING

Designer Corey Powell reimagines the kitchen in her parents’ Rogers home as a gathering place for the whole family.

43

COOKING IN CONTRAST

A couple from California calls on designer Lee Anne Stelte to transform their kitchen with a style all their own.

SHOP Woven Together

DESIGN

Ultimate Updates

REFRESH

Restful Retreat

TIMELESS TRADITION

Katie Grace Designs offers a fresh take on the classics in a new construction home in Heber Springs.

A WELCOME ADDITION

Kitchen Distributors helps a Fayetteville family make the most of a renovation and expansion, creating space for all to enjoy.

GROW Friendship Blooms

DISCOVER Conway

FOODIE FAVES

LOCAL FINDS

TRENDSETTERS

Kitchen & Bath Professionals

WELCOME

END NOTES

Megan and Andrew Mull’s Centerton kitchen. Design by Whiteline Designs. Photography by Rett Peek. See page 43.

47

MODERN DAY HEIRLOOM

A Little Rock homeowner’s design duo helps create the kitchen, breakfast nook, and dining room of her dreams. 62

SO FRESH, SO CLEAN In Paron, Kathryn LeMaster helms a bathroom renovation that’s easy on the eyes and a breeze to maintain.

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

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

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Contributing Copy Editor Susan Darcey

Contributing Photographer Rett Peek

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

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Isabella James isabella@athomearkansas.com

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Billing billing@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

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From the Editor

Decisions, decisions: That is the refrain when planning a kitchen or bath remodel. There are countertops, tile, backsplash, plumbing fixtures, and hardware to choose—the list seems never ending. And where is the fine line between coordinating finishes and creating a look that’s too matchy? These rooms are often the biggest investments in your home, so you want to get it right. It can be overwhelming.

And that, my friend, is why you’re holding the September issue of At Home in Arkansas. We’re here to help. With five kitchens, two baths, several dining spaces, and even a laundry room featured, there are plenty of ideas to help you feel in control of your next project, whether your style leans warm and classic (see Timeless Tradition, page 52) or bold and contemporary (see Cooking in Contrast, page 43). These spaces are typically where you start and end every day, so you want to feel good about the final product after all those decisions are made.

Happy reading!

Latest

Save the date! At Home in Arkansas is excited to sponsor a visit from Susan Gravely, founder and CEO of the iconic Italian dinnerware brand Vietri , as a part of the Six Bridges Book Festival , which runs September 25 through October 1. Susan will join a panel to discuss her book, Italy on a Plate—part memoir, part cookbook—and be available for questions and a book signing. Visit our blog (athomearkansas.com/blog) for a Q&A with Susan and event details.

This summer, Little Rock interior design business and showroom Providence Design ( providenceltddesign.com) announced Kim Mannis as its new owner. Kim has been with the company for six years, working alongside founders Mona Thompson Phelan and Talena Ray, and says she is excited to carry on the legacy Providence has created while expanding the brand’s look to include more color, pattern, and elements of the unexpected. Providence’s showroom celebrates 10 years in October.

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).

Central Arkansas-based professional organizing business The Marshall Concept (themarshallconcept.com) has also recently changed hands. Hot Springs natives Ashley and Ben Barr purchased the 5-year-old company from founder Leslie Marshall and plan to expand the business’s current offerings with additional services, such as a monthly maintenance refresh. With a team of six—including two with backgrounds in interior design—The Marshall Concept will serve clients statewide with an emphasis on Little Rock and Hot Springs.

Photos by Rett Peek

1504 Rebsamen Park Road Little Rock • 501.280.3200

Tues - Sat • 10am - 5pm mertinsdykehome.com

Woven Together

A classic pattern of interlocking wefts, basketweave easily winds its way through fashion accessories and home décor

PRODUCER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK

PREVIOUS PAGE “Blythe” plaid hobo bag. Bella Boutique, Little Rock BELLABOUTIQUEHEIGHTS.COM

1 “At Ease” gold-plated chain necklace. Remedy Road, Bentonville SHOPREMEDYROAD.COM

2 Steel and distressed wood pendant. Lighting Emporium, Springdale LIGHTINGEMPORIUM.COM

3 Ceramic basketweave-style frog planter. Box Turtle, Little Rock SHOPBOXTURTLE.COM

4 “Margam” mirror with antique brass finish. Cantrell Furniture Design Center, Little Rock CANTRELLFURNITURE.COM

5 Table lamp with woven vegan leather base. Kaufman By Design West, Little Rock KAUFMANLUMBER.COM

6 “Gwen” cut velvet pillow. Presley Paige, Fayetteville PRESLEYPAIGE.COM

7 “Jordan” four-door credenza with woven jute doors. Urban Pad, Little Rock 501.664.4202

8 “Plait” woven leather accent chair. Arkansas Furniture, Hot Springs ARKANSASFURNITURE.COM

9 Mini crossbody wristlet clutch. Cynthia East Fabrics, Little Rock CYNTHIAEASTFABRICS.COM

Photos by Rett Peek (frog planter) and courtesy of vendors

The shape of the “Salute” vessel sink by Kohler was inspired by the coupe champagne glass.

Bathroom Ideas

1 The “Zencha” freestanding tub from Duravit is reminiscent of a Japanese onsen bath, resembling the shape of the sinks in the same collection. 2 Kallista’s “Script” faucet with Saint-Louis crystal handles offers unparalleled elegance in exquisite materials. 3 The “Magda” tub by MTI was inspired by the geometric patterns and clean straight lines of the Art Deco period. 4 & 5 Both from Kohler, a cane-shaped sink faucet spout and lever handles (in Matte Black with Moderne Brass) from the Occasion collection are inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the Statement showering collection has the latest in technology, including an oversized rainhead, body sprays, and Anthem digital control panel.

Local Retailers

DELTA

Falk Plumbing Supply, falksupply.com Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, ferguson.com J&B Supply, jandbsupply.com Mid-South Plumbing and Electric Supply, midsouthplumbingandelectric.com Plumb Perfect , springdalewinnelson.com Ridout Lumber, ridoutlumber.com Sanders Supply, sanderssupply.net Southern Bath & Kitchen , southernbathandkitchen.com Southern Pipe & Supply, southernpipe.com The Plumbing Warehouse , tpwlittlerock.com Lumber One Home Center, lumber1.com

DURAVIT

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, ferguson.com

KALLISTA

Southern Pipe & Supply, southernpipe.com

KOHLER

Falk Plumbing Supply, falksupply.com Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, ferguson.com Mid-South Plumbing and Electric Supply, midsouthplumbingandelectric.com Southern Bath & Kitchen , southernbathandkitchen.com Southern Pipe & Supply, southernpipe.com The Plumbing Warehouse , tpwlittlerock.com

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6 New additions to True Residential’s refrigeration joining kit include a 30-inch bottom freezer refrigerator, shown here with wine columns in Bluestone. “Transitional” induction cooktop is a sleek, scratch-resistant glass surface designed to easily integrate into any kitchen . 8 Delta’s “Everest” sink provides a workspace for seamless transition between tasks. 9 Hanging from ceilings up to 10 feet tall, the “Purist” suspended kitchen faucet by Kohler allows easy and convenient placement over the sink. 10 The “Dolvecita” induction oven in Lavender with brass trim from Lofra adds a dash of color to your kitchen.

Local Retailers (cont.)

Restful Retreat

Designer Talena Ray turns a primary bedroom into a Little Rock couple’s sanctuary

WRITER & STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK

Nightstands featuring a Greek key detail play into the room’s traditional flair.

When a longtime client contacted Talena Ray about updating a bedroom in her house, it wasn’t the primary suite she had in mind. “She called me and wanted to redo a guest bedroom upstairs, and I talked her into doing this room instead,” Talena says with a laugh. Having collaborated with the homeowner on previous projects, including a home office and several bathroom updates, Talena had grown to know her well. “She works really hard and she travels a lot. I said, ‘Why don’t we begin with your bedroom, because you deserve a calming refuge.’”

The designer started with practical solutions. While the room was big enough for a seating area, it lacked the storage to make a living space functional. “She’s a big reader and didn’t have anywhere to store her books,” Talena says. A wall of built-ins to the right of the window was the remedy. Next, she turned her attention to the window coverings. “They liked that they could see the moonlight in the trees through that open area in the arch, so that’s why the drapes were hung so low,” Talena explains. Her solution: Extend the draperies above the arch to accentuate the height of the room and make it feel more open and airy, then install a Roman shade for the lower half of the window so the panels never have to be fully closed. This way, the homeowners can

lower the shade for privacy as needed, but still enjoy the view through the open arch.

Finally, Talena addressed the room’s palette, which felt heavy and impersonal before. A fresh coat of creamy white paint on the walls, a mix of gold and ivory fabrics, and touches of slate blue create the calming appeal Talena felt her client deserved. For furnishings, she chose classic pieces with a French influence, such as the cane and wood-carved bed and bergère chair. A comfortable swivel chair and piece of abstract art are more current elements that keep the mix fresh. “I just wanted to make a pretty, tranquil environment for them, and I think that’s what they have now,” Talena says.

“Créme” Sherwin-Williams

1

BLISSFUL BEDDING

The new bed is a king-sized antique reproduction of a French style featuring carved wood and a cane headboard. A gold quilt, embroidered shams, and an oversized velvet lumbar pillow featuring a trim by Stroheim (“Tikal”) create luxurious appeal.

2

GLAMOUR ABOVE

Talena replaced two ceiling fans with a pair of gilded chandeliers by Visual Comfort. “These have sort of a French look to me that’s been updated,” Talena says. Glass beading along the edges and crystal drops catch the room’s abundant sunlight.

3

SOPHISTICATED SHELVING

Library lights over the room’s new built-ins give the feeling that they’ve always been a part of the design. Here, the homeowner has shelves for her growing book collection as well as display space for meaningful mementos and curated accessories.

4

CUSTOM CREATION

An embroidered trim brings an added level of elegance to the Roman shade, which can easily be raised or lowered depending on the time of day. Along with drapery panels, the window coverings are a creative solution to an oversized window that still allows natural light to fill the room.

—Talena Ray, designer

“We wanted to create something restful and tranquil that felt welcoming after a long day.”

Design Resources

INTERIOR DESIGN Talena Ray ACCESSORIES, ART, BEDDING, FABRICS, FURNITURE, LIGHTING, AND MIRRORS Providence Design

CABINETRY Pinnacle Home Improvement WINDOW COVERINGS Interior Creations

Life

The owners of Fayetteville’s

create moody arrangements with pops of color to take you from summer

Speaking to Faith Hundley and Molly Barnes, owners of Meus Floral Studio in downtown Fayetteville, one would guess they’ve been friends since childhood. However, they didn’t actually meet until working on the same freelance floral project in 2018; and in that meeting, something clicked. “That’s where Molly and I first started bonding, talking about our grandmothers’ gardens and the desire to work with our hands,” Faith says. “I remember telling someone right after I met Faith that we were going to be best friends,” Molly adds with a laugh.

Molly, who studied fine arts at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, had just moved to Fayetteville that year so her husband could attend graduate school at the University of Arkansas. Faith, a Northwest Arkansas native, followed a similar path back to the region after living in California for three years. During that time, she took classes at the San Francisco Flower Market. The duo opened their floral studio in 2019, but their plan to focus on special events was quickly

Faith Hundley

Molly and Faith will celebrate four years in their studio this month. “I would say Faith is the creative director making sure everything is absolutely perfect,” Molly says about her business partner. “Molly makes sure we can actually execute,” Faith says. “We’re a good balance.”

derailed by the pandemic. “A lot of our weddings got pushed back, and we really had to think about how to make our business continue to work,” Molly says. They switched their center of attention to single-day celebrations like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. “On those days especially, we see each other more than our husbands,” Faith says. The two don’t seem to mind. “I can’t believe I get to work with my best friend,” Molly says. “It’s the craziest, luckiest thing.”

Faith and Molly both look to nature for inspiration, creating arrangements with flowers and grasses that appear as if they’ve just been picked from the garden—because some of them have been. “I really like to discover new varieties of flowers to grow and bring them into the shop to work with,” Molly says.

For this issue, the two created arrangements based on the changing season using flowers available in early fall. “We’re playing off the colors that are occurring in nature around this time, which is something we usually try to do,” Faith says. Read on to learn more about their creations.

Molly Barnes

EASY DOES IT Marigolds, yarrow, and wild grasses burst forth from tiny bud vases, which Faith and Molly recommend starting with if you’re new to floral arranging. “You don’t have to work as hard,” Faith says. “Just throw some flowers in there, wiggle them a little, and the opening kind of determines the shape.” Molly suggests placing bud vases in a line down a dining room table for a look that is more minimal and modern than a large, traditional arrangement. “It’s nice and low. Even the tall elements are grasses so you can see through them,” she says.

Burgundy sunflowers peek out of a ribbed vase, complemented by yarrow, chocolate cosmos, autumn eucalyptus, and foliage from Molly’s garden. “The color of this vase is very neutral so it will go with a lot of different color schemes, but the texture of it adds some visual interest,” Molly says.

Ranunculus, astilbe, smoke bush, chocolate cosmos, scabiosa, and wild grasses fill a ceramic flower frog, another great starter vase for the home florist. “If you have little bits from your yard, they are perfect to stick stems into the individual holes,” Faith says. “You can even just have two to three stems and it could look really neat.”

This wispy arrangement is a mix of chocolate cosmos, yarrow, and wild grasses in a shallow compote vase. “There are only three elements but, paired with that vase, it looks so interesting. A cool vase allows you to have less variety which can be helpful if you’re working at home,” Faith says. Chicken wire wrapped around the base of the stems keeps them upright, but putting a small flower frog inside a larger vessel would also do the trick.

GOOD AS MARIGOLD

Marigolds pack a punch in this single-flower arrangement with a simple, tone-on-tone vase. “It’s our favorite flower we get locally to use summer into fall,” Molly says. She adds that using a single flower is a great place to start designing arrangements at home: “You can focus more on the shape and the way the flower moves versus mixing different flowers.”

LIGHT & FLUFFY

A combination of chocolate

Queen Anne’s lace and smoke bush create a pink and white arrangement reminiscent of cotton candy. “Don’t be afraid to put two things together that are really similar colors and textures,” Molly says. The small footprint of this terracotta vase makes this a great addition to a nightstand, where space is limited.

—Faith Hundley

“I love single element arrangements. The abundance feels like a luxury.”

LIVING SCULPTURE

Garden roses in faded pink and orange hues are the focal point of this late summer stunner, supported by ranunculus and lisianthus. Amaranth, astilbe, and cherry foliage from Molly’s garden add texture. “We always try to add something light and airy at the end, like cosmos, which Molly calls dancers,” Faith says. With the exception of the roses, all of the elements of this arrangement were locally sourced. “Whenever we can get local flowers, we jump at the chance,” she adds.

Professional Organizing Services Crafted for You & Your Spaces

With three kids ages 6, 3, and 1, Ashley and Ben Barr know what it means to manage chaos. That’s why they’re excited to help others do the same as the new owners of The Marshall Concept, the professional organizing service founded by Leslie Marshall in 2018. Ashley and Ben, both native Arkansans, purchased The Marshall Concept after moving home following 14 years in Texas. “We are excited to be back in Arkansas and carry on the amazing service Leslie and her

team bring to homes all across the state,” Ashley says. “We know life isn’t perfect and orderly all the time, but we believe the systems and organization in our homes can help us have more time for the things we love to do, like going to the lake, calling the Hogs, and exploring the Natural State with family and friends.” The Marshall Concept is based in Little Rock and Hot Springs and serves clients statewide. To book a consultation, visit themarshallconcept.com.

themarshallconcept.com | @themarshallconcept

Photography by Megan Hall

From left to right: Kendall Corgiat, Sydney C. Burke, Ben Barr, Ashley Barr, Carra Sawyer, and Kathryn Davis

A mural by artist Austin Watt at The Rogue Roundabout pays homage to both Conway and the art of craft beer.

If you’re a creative person seeking a career in the arts, you don’t have to leave Arkansas to find it. That’s the mantra of Nick Stevens and his team at the Creative Institute of Central Arkansas, which offers apprentice-style training for students through its Emerging Talent Program. Nick co-founded the Institute in 2020 as a means of providing those interested in the arts with the tools necessary to find work in their field. “There’s a story of Arkansas not being a place for creative people,” Nick explains, “where your options are to become a starving artist or move somewhere like L.A., New York, Dallas, or Nashville. We started the Institute to show students they can turn their talents into lucrative, stable careers that allow them to do things they love.” The two-semester program includes courses such as graphic design, video production, and copywriting along with internship-style work at local businesses. “We’re equipping creatives to stay and flourish in Arkansas,” he adds. For years, the idea that a future in art would be limited kept muralist Jessica Jones from pursuing her painting as anything more than a hobby. “I was told for a long period of time it

wasn’t a viable career option,” she says. After she completed her first mural at Blue Sail Coffee in 2016, commissions started to roll in; now, painting is her full-time gig. “Once I fully committed to it, it took off,” she says, noting that all of her murals in downtown Conway were funded by local business owners. “The community really invested in me.”

Jessica and the Creative Institute of Central Arkansas both office out of The Studio Downtown, a coworking space at the corner of Oak and Chestnut streets. Here, the spirit is collaborative, entrepreneurial, and forward-thinking, filled with not only other artists, but real estate agents, small business owners, and remote workers, too. Centrally located downtown, it’s also a natural hub for another of the Institute’s initiatives, the Conway Art Walk. This event takes place the first Friday of each month from March through October. “It’s a platform for artists to sell their work, be celebrated, connect with people, and show how thriving of a creative community we already have here,” Nick says. A typical Conway Art Walk features live music, demonstrations, a Maker’s Market, and artist talks, all taking place within steps of local shops and

Clockwise, from top left: “Aurora Rising” in Simon Park painted by Morton Brown. One of 11 bronze sculptures on the city’s Tiny Toads Tour around downtown. Jessica Jones in front of one of her most recent murals. Vintage wares for sale at Jenifer’s Antiques. Piles of pillows at Page 52 Mercantile. A row of tap pulls at The Rogue Roundabout.

restaurants. “There’s the economic side of what we do, which is that when people come out and visit downtown storefronts, they're spending money here and it directly benefits the city,” Nick says. “But the mission side of it is getting people connected to the creative community in our town and the region as a whole.”

Though she lives in nearby Greenbrier, Jessica sees the network of support in Conway as a sign of even more good things to come for the area. “As artists, we don’t really function well if we work in competition,” she says. “Something I talk about frequently is that the arts are a huge indicator of a thriving community. Not just visual arts, but all kinds of arts across the board—theater, music, literary. It’s indicative of a community that's not just surviving, but really thriving and working together.” Read on for a few more of our favorite ways to discover Conway.

SHOP

Head to the new location of BELL & SWARD (bellandsward.com) at 1011 Oak St. to check out The Lodge, a section of the store showcasing Martin Dingman leather goods in a curated setting. Mark your calendar for a grand re-opening October 13 with a visit from Martin himself. Foodies will want to stop by SQUIZITO TASTING ROOM (squizitotastingroom. com), a gourmet boutique specializing in olive oils, balsamics, and other kitchen goods and gifts. Located at the Village at Pickles Gap, HAZEL GREEN ( 501.932.0884) is a familyowned shop with women's clothing, on-trend accessories, and vintage finds.

DINE

THE ROGUE ROUNDABOUT (therogueroundabout. com) is Conway’s first microbrewery, featuring small-batch beers named after popular spots in the city, like Dave Ward Delirium and Rip Van Ronkle. A menu of sandwiches, salads, flatbreads, and more will keep you satiated while sipping your way through different suds. Grab a dose of caffeine (and maybe something sweet!) at DOC’S COFFEE + CREAMERY ( 501.932.0884) on your next trip to the Village at Pickles Gap.

VISIT

The next CONWAY ART WALK is September 1 from 5-8 p.m. Follow along on Instagram (@conwayartwalk) for a full line-up of artists who will be present and schedule of events. On September 22, the CONWAY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (conwaysymphony.org) presents a free concert in Laurel Park. Music starts when the sun goes down, or around 7:15 p.m.

A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion

Photo by Bailey Dougan

Eat Like a Local

Camp Taco at Lost Forty

Located in Little Rock, Camp Taco offers a taco-forward menu, craft cocktails, and boozy ice pops in addition to small-batch beers by the team at nearby Lost Forty Brewing. camptaco.com

The Humble Crumb Bakery

Looking for cinnamon rolls, breakfast bites, and desserts all baked from scratch? This bakery in Sherwood is calling your name. They also offer full-service and a la carte catering services. humblecrumbbakery.com

JTown’s Grill

JTown’s Grill in Jonesboro is a fun and friendly spot to enjoy crowdpleasing dishes such as nachos, wings, and chili dogs. Don’t miss their continuous lineup of events, including live music. jtownsgrill.com

Local Lime

Perfect for a date or girls’ night out, Local Lime is a go-to spot in Little Rock’s Promenade at Chenal for margaritas and Mexican food. Be sure to save room for the spiked tres leches cake. locallimetaco.com

Mexico Chiquito

Head to Mexico Chiquito’s west Little Rock drive-through to grab their beloved cheese dip and punch and choose from an array of mouth-watering entrees. mexicochiquitotogo.com

Red Oak Steakhouse

Pine Bluff is home to Saracen Casino Resort, whose fine-dining restaurant is one of only a few dozen places in the country where you can order real Kobe beef. saracenresort.com

Sonny Williams’ Steak Room

For special occasions, there’s no place like Little Rock’s Sonny Williams’ Steak Room. Their menu features the finest selection of aged Angus beef along with an award-winning wine list. sonnywilliamssteakroom.com

Taco & Tamale

After launching “Ark-Mex” restaurant Heights Taco & Tamale in Little Rock to great support, Yellow Rocket Concepts expanded to Taco & Tamale locations in Bentonville and Fayetteville. A popular favorite is the pickle-fried chicken tacos. t acoandtamale.com

ZAZA

Located in Little Rock’s Heights neighborhood, ZAZA features wood-fired pizzas along with a popular selection of build-as-youorder salads. Have a sweet tooth? Place an order at the gelato bar. zazapizzaandsalad.com

Check individual websites for hours and menu options.

From fine dining to pastries made fresh, these are a few of our readers’ favorite eateries across the state

Square cuff bracelet with metal beads, $68. Mary Garrett Jewelry, Little Rock MARYGARRETTJEWELRY.COM

“Lila” ear cuff hoops, $42. HJane Jewels, Little Rock HJANEJEWELS.COM

“Theia” gemstone earrings (shown in labradorite; others available), $45. Bella Vita Jewelry, Little Rock BELLAVITAJEWELRY.NET

Gorjana “Compass” pendant necklace, $80. Label, Bentonville and Rogers SHOPATLABEL.COM

Sterling silver custom bangle with Arkansas turquoise, $2,250. Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers, Fayetteville and Rogers ROMANCEDIAMOND.COM

Asurprising opportunity popped up when interior designer Corey Powell’s parents, Dana and Tom Tull, were searching for a home in Northwest Arkansas. Corey’s neighbors decided to move, meaning the house right next door became available. The couple purchased it and now live just down the street from their daughter and her family. “My kids can ride their bikes from our property to theirs, so it’s really special that they can just show up, drop their bikes off, and walk right into the kitchen,” Corey says.

But before the Tulls could feel at home, there was a

renovation in store. Luckily, they were able to call on the talents of their daughter to help update the kitchen’s deep red walls and checkered floor with a soothing neutral palette punctuated by brass and wood tones. “Because the kitchen was so dark to begin with, they wanted to go in the complete opposite direction and just make it feel really open and airy,” Corey says.

The refreshed space includes quartz countertops and backsplash, while a gray subway tile adds dimension to the areas above the range and around the sink window. Corey also included open shelving to break up the palette and draw

“White Dove” Benjamin Moore

more attention to the surrounding views of the property. “The windows add such a statement, so I really wanted to give them a luxurious feel for this kitchen,” Corey says.

Dana says the majority of her time spent at home is here, where she enjoys the large island and abundance of natural light. “We love to host friends and family, and this is the perfect place to congregate,” she says. “I just love that I had a part in creating this space for my parents,” the designer adds. “It was a really neat experience knowing the kitchen would be one that I would spend lots of time in, both at holidays and just being with my parents in their home.” AH

LUXURIOUS LIGHTING

One request the Tulls had for their kitchen was lighting featuring milk glass. Corey selected two pendants that fit the bill to shed light over the large island. Along with the wood tones of the open shelving and barstools, brass hardware throughout brings warmth to the space.

—Dana Tull, homeowner

“We love to host friends and family, and this is the perfect place to congregate.”

STYLISH SOLUTIONS

Because the kitchen is entered right off the driveway, Corey added a stylish catch-all area complete with storage and a shiplap accent. “I wanted to create this space that was functional but also felt like an extension of the kitchen,” she says. Shiplap is also used on the ends of the island, adding eye-pleasing repetition to the design.

Design Resources

INTERIOR DESIGN Corey Powell, Corey Powell Design Company ACCESSORIES, FIXTURES, HARDWARE, AND LIGHTING Corey Powell Design Company APPLIANCES Tucker’s Furniture & Appliance CABINETRY Lance Sanford Cabinets COUNTERTOPS Verona Marble Company COUNTERTOPS (INSTALLATION) Natural Stone Mountain FLOORING AND TILE Flooring by Design PAINT Benjamin Moore PAINTING Santiago’s Painting RUGS Turkish Trunk TILE (INSTALLATION) Rocamar Tile Co.

“Revere Pewter” Benjamin Moore

WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST BAILEY DOUGAN

SMART SOLUTIONS

The renovation allowed the Mulls to keep their existing appliances, only replacing the over-range microwave for a drawer option that fit neatly into the side cabinetry. Trading Shaker-style panels for a flat, clean option streamlined the cabinetry, while the waterfall countertop on the island brings a modern edge.

When Megan and Andrew Mull moved from California to Northwest Arkansas to follow his career, they purchased their Centerton home sight unseen— at least not in person, due to the pandemic. “We originally planned to visit in the spring of 2020 to house hunt but were lucky to find a Realtor who FaceTimed us with options,” Megan recalls. With two young daughters, this home stood out for its open layout and welcoming neighborhood, both ideal for family togetherness; however, it lacked personal touches to reflect their style. “Once we got in, we knew we could make it our own,” she says of the newconstruction residence.

Settling into the community, Megan found designer Lee Anne Stelte of Whiteline Designs after visiting local women’s clothing boutique Label, which Lee Anne designed. “They wanted something bold and moody,” the designer says regarding the couple’s vision. After getting a feel for their style and needs, Lee Anne worked on plans to infuse the space with a strict palette of black, white, and white oak along with gold finishes.

While aesthetics were a primary goal of the renovation, the cabinetry over the range was counter-depth, meaning Megan and Andrew were often hitting their heads when cooking eggs or boiling pasta. Lee Anne’s solution to this was two-fold: Remove the existing cabinetry and cover the space with a showstopping porcelain slab. “We went with the porcelain because it’s non-porous and easy to clean, so it will stand up to wear and tear,” Lee Anne says. “This slab is like art,” Megan says of the selection. “It makes the kitchen.” AH

“Blacktop” Benjamin Moore

BEVERAGES & BREAKFAST

Existing cabinetry near the breakfast table was replaced with a sleek tower that conceals the coffeemaker and other small appliances. An under-counter fridge keeps handy after-school drinks for kids and beverages for guests who come indoors from the backyard pool. A contemporary matte subway tile adds interest to the backsplash and ties in with the nearby table and chairs.

Design Resources

CONTRACTOR Keith Kane, Kane Construction INTERIOR DESIGN Lee Anne Stelte, Whiteline Designs CABINETRY Justus Cabinets COUNTERTOPS Pacific Shore Stones COUNTERTOPS (INSTALLATION) Torres Granite & Marble PAINTING Missions Painting

A pull-down faucet coordinates with the gold finishes while also providing ease of use.

—Lee Anne Stelte, designer

“They wanted something bold and moody.”

Modern Day Heirloom

A Little Rock homeowner blends modern conveniences and sentimental pieces in a recent renovation

WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST BAILEY DOUGAN

When Rebecca Price decided to downsize, she knew a renovation was in the cards.

“I wanted something light and open, but I also have a lot of family pieces I wanted to include,” she says of the motivation behind the makeover. While the entire home was updated, the kitchen and dining spaces got special treatment at the hands of her designer, Sarah Finley, and Bill Wrape, who served as the general contractor for the entire home.

“I called this the four-poster kitchen because there were big columns that ran through the island,” Rebecca says with a laugh. Wanting to open up the line of sight, she and Sarah envisioned a clean space with a central island for prepwork as well as gathering. Bill reworked the footprint to straighten the existing walls and allow space for flush cabinetry while taking out unnecessary support beams. He also traded a reach-in pantry for a cabinet option that provided the same amount of storage while freeing up room in the floor plan. “One of the things I love about Bill is that he is a Certified Kitchen Designer, so when I had an idea he could quickly

turn it into part of the plan,” Rebecca says. “He and Sarah were my dream team.”

After addressing functionality, style moved to the forefront with a focus on incorporating cherished furniture and finds collected through the years. “Rebecca has exquisite taste that has always been traditional,” Sarah says of her client, whom she has known since childhood. “When she moved, I think she was excited to take her family heirloom pieces and put a fresh twist on them.” In the breakfast nook, chairs from Rebecca’s previous home pair with an antique table and pine plate rack filled with blue and white china. Similarly, the dining room design features an antique table combined with new lighting and chairs for an updated yet classic look.

With a revised flow and style that is reflective of its owner, the adjoining spaces can now comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests. Rebecca enjoys filling the rooms with family and friends, noting book club, Bible study, and game night as just a few of the regular gatherings she now hosts. “I love to have people in my home,” she says. AH

“Alabaster” Sherwin-Williams

SCENIC DINING

Sarah and Rebecca had discussed a mural-scene wallpaper for the dining room when Rebecca’s sister found this monochromatic option while visiting London. “It’s a contemporary rendering of a classic pastoral scene,” Rebecca says. Paired with comfortable chairs, a new curio cabinet, and a family heirloom table, the look is reflective of the client. “I love a curated space where everything has been collected over time,” Sarah says of the approach.

“I love to have people in my home.”

—Rebecca Price, homeowner

CENTRAL STATION

“Rebecca allowed me to get creative and come up with something that worked for her,” Bill says of the kitchen layout and island. Designing the bases with drawers rather than cabinets allowed for ease of use, while a drawer microwave mimics the style. Features like the icemaker in the island, rollout shelving in the pantry, and an appliance garage for the coffee maker and toaster oven add to the streamlined feel.

NEUTRAL NOOK

In the breakfast area, a quartet of comfortable chairs surround an antique table. “I didn’t want to toss everything I owned so we did a mix of champagne colors to make them work,” Rebecca says. The antique French plate rack, seen on the wall, once belonged to Rebecca’s mother. It holds collections that have been handed down to her from her grandmother and great grandmother as well as pieces from her travels. “I found the flow blue platter dirty in a stack at a London street market,” she recalls. “It’s all collected and reminds me of all the women in my family who loved beautiful, welcoming homes—and that is what I want to be.”

Design Resources

CONTRACTOR Bill Wrape, Distinctive Kitchens & Baths INTERIOR DESIGN Sarah Finley, Finley Design Group ACCESSORIES Cobblestone & Vine and Providence Design APPLIANCES Metro

Appliances & More CABINETRY AND FIXTURES Distinctive Kitchens & Baths COUNTERTOPS AND TILE Triton Stone Group FABRICS Designer Effects FURNITURE Cobblestone & Vine and Finley Design Group HARDWARE AND LIGHTING Light Innovations PAINT Sherwin-Williams RUGS Cobblestone & Vine WINDOW COVERINGS Finley Design Group

TIMELESS TRADITION

Interior designer Katie Rees infuses a Heber Springs new build with warm, classic style and cherished pieces

After raising their family and spending 30 years in their former house, Sissy and Scott Jones were ready for a new chapter. They called on Katie Rees of Katie Grace Designs and David Hill of D. Allen Construction to help usher in the next phase with a new-construction home in Heber Springs. “Building something fresh and new was a long time coming for this couple,” Katie says. “She has really pretty antiques and classic style, so when I started designing it, I wanted to stay true to it being timeless and not trendy.”

The Joneses have a big family whom they love to host, so the kitchen needed to include the capacity for gathering. To accommodate this, two large islands —one for dining, one for prep—ground the space while still offering plenty of room for traffic to flow around the kitchen and into adjoining rooms. Next, Katie enhanced the welcoming feel through material selections, starting with a honed marble featuring a subtle copper veining for the countertops and backsplash. Rift-sawn white oak with a custom stain on the islands and pantry doors offers contrast to the white walls and cabinetry, while a faux-finish range hood mimics the tone of the faucet and pot filler. Katie also incorporated the homeowners’ antique rugs and barstools, whose familiar character complete the space. “We’ve collected furniture over the years, pieces that we really liked and cherished,

WRITER REBEKAH HALL SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK

COZY COPPER

The honed marble used for the countertops and backsplash was one of the first materials chosen for the kitchen, and Katie says it “really set the tone” for the room’s warm palette. Double pantries provide storage for go-to ingredients, additional appliances, and serving pieces. The star of the show is a custom hood built by Bray Sheet Metal and painted by AF Decorative to appear naturally patinaed.

CENTRAL STATION

Katie says she wanted the new home to “feel like it’s been here for a long time,” so she designated a traditional style of millwork to help it appear established. Overhead, white oak tongue-and-groove boards in the kitchen’s coffered ceiling keep the large space from feeling overly expansive. A wall of cabinetry along the back of the kitchen provides more than ample storage, and a paneled refrigerator blends seamlessly into the design. Katie also used the homeowners’ antique rugs and barstools to bring the family’s history into the space.

“White Dove” Sherwin-Williams

and we wanted to continue to use those pieces,” Scott says. “At some point, we’ll pass them along to our children and grandchildren, and Katie was instrumental in helping us incorporate them.”

Looking for opportunities to reuse beloved furnishings was a theme the team carried into the bathroom, where Sissy’s vanity stool was recovered in a soft blue-and-white fabric to suit the new space. “If there are pieces from a former home that our client wants to use, I think that makes it even more special because it brings the home that they lived in for so many years to this new place,” Katie says. “Even though we freshened it up, it’s still nostalgic for them and has their touch.” Paneling details and a privacy window with an antique-inspired pattern contribute to the room’s classic design, as do the polished nickel sconces and hardware. Honed marble was used for the floors and shower, giving the space a crisp, luxurious feel.

“We love the entire house, and there’s nothing we would change about it,” Scott says. “It’s comfortable, spacious, and exactly what we were looking for.”

“Every time we come up the driveway, I think, ‘I cannot believe we live here,’” Sissy says. AH

ANTIQUE ACCENTS

Katie took inspiration from the classic style of the homeowners’ previous house when designing their dreamy primary bath. “There’s nothing in that bathroom that would be out of style in 20 years; it’s all just completely timeless,” she says. Overhead, a sculpted metal light fixture balances the room’s traditional elements to keep it feeling fresh.

Design Resources BUILDER David Hill, D. Allen Construction INTERIOR DESIGN Katie Rees, Katie Grace Designs ACCESSORIES AND LIGHTING Katie Grace Designs APPLIANCES Metro Appliances & More CABINETRY Logan Cabinet, Inc. FIXTURES Falk Plumbing Supply PAINT Sherwin-Williams PAINTING (DECORATIVE) AF Decorative WINDOWS Pella

—Katie Rees, designer

“I tried to play with natural materials and make it feel a little more dressed up.”

A Welcome Addition

Years of cramped quarters prompt a Fayetteville family to embark on an expansion complete with a new kitchen and laundry room

SPREAD OUT

The spacious island offers seating for the entire family as well as plenty of room for food prep, baking projects, and even homework. It also houses microwave and dishwasher drawers, a paper towel holder, and wicker baskets for fruit storage. The wood-stained base is topped with a light quartzite counter for contrast in the design.

DINE IN

For casual meals, the family gathers around the breakfast table. “We did the banquette because everyone loves a bench seat at a restaurant,” Andi says of the design that can accommodate a crowd comfortably. The bank of windows gives a view of the pool and outdoor living area.

From the start, the owners of this Fayetteville residence believed it would be a temporary solution. “We moved in 2006 when the housing market was tight and landed here,” explains one of the homeowners, who shares the home with her husband and four children. While much of the layout worked for the family, the ground floor spaces—including the kitchen, breakfast area, and laundry—were cramped and did not function at peak. “The breakfast nook was so tiny,” she adds. “We couldn’t fit around the table so we never sat there.”

Becoming busy with the routine of daily life and raising children, the couple’s once-temporary home eventually became long-term. Yet, there were improvements that could be made. “I love the memories we have made here with our family, the privacy we have, and the view. I really didn’t want to leave all that,” the homeowner says. They decided to remedy their situation with an addition rather than moving and called on local kitchen designer Andi Stephens of Kitchen Distributors to help expand the footprint of the home. Andi’s updated plan helped create a spacious kitchen, roomier breakfast nook, and larger laundry room complete with dedicated areas for their pets. With the expansion, the homeowner notes she and her husband wanted the newer areas to look like they

had been in place for decades. “We are very, very traditional,” she says. Inspired by their travels, including a trip to historic Charleston, South Carolina, timeless features like the brick backsplash, copper hood, and furniture-style cabinetry were incorporated. Additionally, reclaimed beams sourced from an Amish barn near Waco, Texas, add character overhead.

Andi paired these style specifications with modern amenities, such as LED lighting inside the drawers and durable Woodbridge cabinetry with a baked-on finish that can stand up to everyday use. “Even though this kitchen is pretty, it’s one

that is going to be fully used,” the designer says. She also added interest by mixing light and dark with contrasting cabinetry and countertop colors.

In the breakfast nook, a banquette is a comfortable spot that, paired with chairs and a table, accommodates the entire family at mealtime. Similarly, the laundry room, located just off the kitchen, was designed with function at the forefront. Cubbies for laundry baskets and storage for gift wrap in the island cater to the needs of the whole family, while a special shower station for their furry friends elevates the space. AH

A farmhouse sink adds to the design's timeless charm while a swing-arm, pot-filler faucet is a functional feature chefs can appreciate.

The family’s pets were top of mind when designing the laundry. The space features a pet shower as well as cubbies that store food bowls and litter boxes out of the traffic flow. A mix of subway tile laid in a herringbone pattern and hexagonal tile underfoot brings interest to the hardworking surfaces, while library lighting over the cabinetry suggests the level of sophistication found throughout the rest of the house.

Design Resources CONTRACTOR Gary Striegler, Craftsman Builders NWA

Ron McLaughlin INTERIOR DESIGN Heather Herzik, Antiquities Interior Design and Lizzy Shaw, Lizzy Shaw Interior Design (Houston)

DESIGN Andi Stephens, Kitchen Distributors and Kerry Kirkland APPLIANCES Metro Appliances & More CABINETRY (KITCHEN) Kitchen Distributors CABINETRY (LAUNDRY) Verser Cabinets

Verona Marble Co. and Pacific Shore Stones FABRICS Antiquities Interior Design FLOORING The Wood Floor Gallery LIGHTING AND HARDWARE Lizzy Shaw Interior Design (Houston) MILLWORK Craftsman Builders NWA PAINT Sherwin-Williams PAINTING Robert Wilson TILE (INSTALLATION) David Ray’s Tile WINDOWS Meek’s

LUXE LAUNDRY

So Fresh, So Clean

Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design gives a primary bath in Paron a practical, stylish refresh

After a water leak caused damage in her shower, the owner of this home in Paron decided it was time to renovate her outdated primary bath. On the hunt for someone to help with a redesign that would be bright and inviting but easy to maintain, she stumbled on the work of interior designer Kathryn LeMaster in the pages of At Home in Arkansas and gave her a call.

For the homeowner, replacing the high-maintenance marble in the shower was the first order of business. “We’d had it resealed several times since we bought the house because it

kept leaking,” she says. When she told Kathryn she preferred something modern that required less TLC, the designer recommended porcelain. “It can look like natural stone, but it’s hardier for the shower and bath area,” Kathryn says. She also replaced outdated glass brick walls while changing the shower’s footprint slightly, making it both wider and shorter than before to create space for a new seated vanity on the other side of the shower wall.

The drop-in tub was next to go. “I wanted to install a freestanding bath tub to open up the space, literally and

WRITER EILEEN BEARD PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

Colorful pieces of local art complement the cabinetry while arched mirrors above the sinks mimic the curve of the porthole window in the shower.

SPECIAL SELECTION

figuratively,” Kathryn says. The homeowner chose this particular model because the lower lip of the tub makes it easy to get in and out and to lean into during bathtime with her grandson.

Stylistically, the homeowner asked Kathryn to weave some old-world elements into the modern look. An oil-rubbed bronze finish on the plumbing fixtures and lighting speaks to this influence, while their clean shapes keep everything in the transitional realm. “Nothing is overly sharp, nothing is overly curved—it’s a good balance of shapes and silhouettes that lends itself to some of the rustic elements throughout the rest of the

home,” Kathryn says. An ottoman upholstered in a floral fabric continues this traditional flair while earthy textures in the Roman shade, rattan pendant, and wood-look tile flooring keep everything from feeling too formal.

When the homeowner mentioned that green was her favorite color, Kathryn was happy to accommodate with a pop of color on the cabinets. “I always like to bring the outdoors in,” she says of the nature-based hue. Apart from ease of use, the homeowner says the thing she appreciates the most about her brand new space is how it makes her feel: “It’s very calming.” AH

“Privilege Green” Sherwin-Williams

While the hardware on the pair of vanities flanking the closet have a linear shape in the same oilrubbed bronze finish as the lighting and fixtures, the seated vanity’s pulls—a brass-and-shell selection that plays off the bone inlay mirror—lend the space a girlish, collected charm.

“The window is such a focal point,” Kathryn says. “We knew we wanted to put a freestanding tub under it to open up the space.” Practicality was also front of mind: The upholstered ottoman has hidden storage below the skirt where the homeowner keeps toys and gear for bathtime with the grandkids, and the indoor/ outdoor rug is washable and reversible. Frosted glass windows in both the shower and the water closet let in natural light without sacrificing privacy.

Design Resources

CONTRACTOR Mike Pace, Pace Cabinets & Remodeling INTERIOR DESIGN Kathryn J. LeMaster, Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design ART Steve Griffith and Vivian Noe Griffith CABINETRY, MILLWORK, AND PAINTING Pace Cabinets & Remodeling FABRICS Cynthia East Fabrics FIXTURES, FLOORING, FURNITURE, HARDWARE, LIGHTING, MIRRORS, RUGS, AND TILE Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design PLANTS Hocott’s Garden Center WINDOW COVERINGS Sew Much by Monica Smith

CENTRAL FOCUS

Whiteline Designs

Lee Anne Stelte has become the name to know for those looking for contemporary, functional design in Northwest Arkansas. It all started in 2012 when she took her background in art, graphic design, and residential and commercial interiors and decided to launch her own design firm: “I realized that my true calling was to establish my own company, where I could channel my passion and expertise to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives,” she says. “Thus, Whiteline Designs was born as a platform to deliver bespoke, artistic, and functional spaces that resonate with each client’s unique story

Lee Anne approaches every project with her client’s individuality in mind, particularly in kitchen and bath remodels, which are some of the hardest-working rooms in the house. “We offer custom services ranging from tailor-made furniture and cabinetry to handpicked materials sourced from around the globe,” she says. She also focuses on maximizing practicality, which means finding clever storage solutions and creating multifunctional spaces in addition to choosing timeless, durable finishes. “My mission is to enrich lives through design, and that is a commitment that I cherish every step of the way.”

Southern Interiors

After 25 years, Southern Interiors has grown into a true “one-stop shop” for their clients’ remodel needs, providing design, fabrication, and installation with their own in-house CNC countertop fabrication shop and custom cabinet shop. Southern Interiors also installs the flooring, window coverings and shower glass it sells, making for a seamless process from start to finish. “This not only allows us to keep our costs down and control the quality but also allows us to run an extremely tight schedule by not relying on outside subs,” owner Brian Hagewood says. Custom quartz

shower pans, porcelain slab walls, frameless shower glass, and showstopping lighting are also becoming Southern Interiors specialities. “Being in this business for almost 25 years, there’s not much we haven’t seen,” Brian says. “We know how stressful remodeling can be, so we pride ourselves on our communication, organization, and time management. Customers can pick out their floors, cabinets, countertops, blinds, hardware, paint and more in Southern Interiors’ beautiful design center. Our customers appreciate this more than anything!”

Photo by Rett Peek

Owners Donna and Brian Hagewood

Show-Stopping Showers

Designs to inspire your next bathroom renovation

NATURALLY CHIC

Pebble-rock flooring and a view to the rural setting outdoors bring an earthy elegance to this walk-through design.

PATTERN PRETTY

A frameless glass shower door and enclosure offer an uninterrupted view of the chevron tile and accent niches in this wet room.

OUTDOORS IN Abundant natural light fills this contemporary wet room, giving it the feel of an outdoor shower retreat with all the modern amenities.

WINNING COMBINATION

Three color variations of marble tile were used to create the walls, flooring, and listello—or border tile—of this shower for fresh, transitional appeal.

Kitchen Distributors

When Andi and Mike Stephens moved to Fayetteville in 1996 to help Andi’s parents run Kitchen Distributors, they never would have guessed they’d be leading the company almost three decades later. Now, the couple carries on the company’s legacy of custom kitchens, quality baths, and innovative cabinetry designs. “We have done thousands of projects in the 53 years we have been in business,” Andi says. “Every client is different, and so is every project we do.”

While Kitchen Distributors sells several cabinetry lines—including a

luxury European brand—they also have the capacity to custom build as needed. The team’s process includes an in-depth questionnaire to make the most of space and budget, and 3D renderings allow clients to see their project before the work even begins. “We have the best installers and designers in Northwest Arkansas,” Andi says. “I am so proud of my team for turning Kitchen Distributors into what it is today. We have won several national awards, and we have been blessed to work with an amazing crew and an amazing family.”

Photo by Rett Peek

505 W. Ash St. 479.521.1313 kitchendistributorsinc.com @kitchendistributors

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Louise Mandumbwa

Louise Mandumbwa’s introduction to art came at home. Her father, both an educator and a practicing artist, would set up his work on a folding table in the living room of their house in Botswana after school, and she would watch. “He would come alive in a way that was different from day to day life,” Louise recalls. “I remember thinking, ‘What is this thing that really seems to light him up?’”

Louise moved to the United States in 2015 to study first at Pulaski Technical College and then the University of Central Arkansas, where she earned degrees in graphic design and fine arts, respectively. Here in the Natural State she continued to explore the idea of home, a concept she'd been meditating on for years. She also formed deep and meaningful connections with the people around her, such as her host family and a local gallerist, Garbo Hearne. “I think my relationships with other people have always been the grounding aspect of my life,” she says. “For some people, home is a tangible, physical place. But for me—and this may be the case for many, especially immigrants—it’s the faces of the people who make you feel comfortable and seen.”

Using methods of drawing, painting, print-making, and often a combination of the three, she’s depicted everyone from teachers and custodians in her hometown to her Arkansas classmates. One such subject is Yannick, a friend and fellow artist from Louise’s time at UCA. In this piece, parts of the canvas are loosely covered in a liquid-graphite wash while only some details are drawn in stunning detail. “I was interested in finding the spot where the rendering was clear enough that you could recognize someone’s face, but it didn’t feel so tight and locked in, like nothing could change,” Louise says. Her work aims to invite viewers to consider each subject as an individual, challenging themselves to ask: Do I really know this person? Or do I have a preconceived idea based on what I see? “Anytime you can get an image of a person in front of someone, you’re opening up such a rich opportunity for conversation,” she says. “It’s portraiture, yes, but it’s also an object of facilitation.” Louise is in her second year of graduate school at Yale University. Find her work at Hearne Fine Art in Little Rock and on Instagram (@louise_mandumbwa).

“Yannick” by Louise Mandumbwa 16” x 20” graphite, liquid graphite, and liquid charcoal on canvas

Written by Stephanie Maxwell Newton. Images courtesy of Louise Mandumbwa