AWE AND ORDER

LOCAL ORGANIZERS CLEAR CLUTTER AND MAXIMIZE STORAGE

BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER

WELL KEPT SPACE When the children are away, the mothers will … Organize? Forget about “play” when organizing can be just as fulfilling, especially with the kids back in school right now.

Adrienne Husted, Ashlee Sanders and Jessica Harroz founded Well Kept Space after their children started attending Westminster School.

“We bonded over our love of organizing,” Husted said. “We realized that we could help others who see organizing as a daunting task.”

“We each have different strengths and personalities, which results in out-of-the box thinking and an amazing end product,” Sanders added.

As a team of three, the women tackle projects in a divide-and-conquer fashion.

Jessica Harroz and Ashlee Sanders, partners at Well Kept Space, collaborate to create a multi-purpose area.

This ensures efficient use of their time – those precious hours while the kids are at school – and their clients’ time, too. Together, they work toward one goal: to develop pleasing and lasting organizational systems.

“We want to ensure the client is beyond happy and comfortable with what we have put in place,” said Husted. “If the client needs to change anything after we are gone – to better fit the needs of their family – we will come back and make them, at no charge.”

THE MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACE Often, one room serves many different people and purposes. Without thoughtful organization, a multifunctional space can quickly become a mixed-up disaster.

Ginny and Andrew Edwards asked Well Kept Space to revamp their laundry room. They wanted to neatly store belongings – laundry supplies, home improvement tools, pet items and children’s toys – and create a play area for their toddler.

“Our laundry room is so narrow,” Ginny Edwards said. “I’m amazed by what they were able to do with the space.” The organizers first removed everything from the laundry room, allowing them to clean the surfaces and sort the items. Then, they designated areas for each activity. Toys needed to be stored low, while dangerous items needed to go up high. Cabinet doors were removed to provide more open shelf space. They added bright toy bins, easy for little tod-

Minda Hofer of Labeled Living groups like items together in decorative baskets.

dler hands to grab. At the same time, detergent, pet supplies and tools were tucked neatly away on the upper shelves. They labeled bins to give each item a specific home and help maintain the various zones moving forward.

This project resulted in a fully functional laundry room (with space to sort and fold), thoughtful storage for each family member’s needs, a small play area and satisfied clients.

LABELED LIVING Minda Hofer has been training to be a professional organizer since childhood.

“I was known as ‘the organized one’ in a family of six,” she said.

After working 10 years in the classroom, Hofer decided to combine her love for teaching with her knack for organizing. She founded Labeled Living in 2018.

Married with three kids, Hofer understands how a home with different ages, stages and interests can create messy closets. At her house, she has established routines and systems to keep them orderly. There’s no doubt that Hofer’s home is organized, but it is not perfect. In fact, she embraces imperfection.

“When I think of being ‘hyper-organized,’ I imagine a mad woman running through her home to achieve perfection on a daily basis,” she said. “That’s not who I want to be or who I expect my clients to be.”

Hofer believes organizing should be an enjoyable, ongoing process.

“Clearing out and cleaning up seasonally helps your home stay refreshed and your mind stay clear,” she said. “It’s so rejuvenating.”

THE GROWING CHILD’S CLOSET Kids’ closets should be organized to accommodate changing seasons and sizes. Cliff and Carly Ferguson wanted to overhaul their three-year-old son’s closet with these transitions in mind. The long-time Labeled Living clients hired Hofer to help. In addition, Carly Ferguson requested a design that would allow her to pull together outfits quickly.

Hofer first removed everything from the closet to wipe down the space and take a thorough inventory. Then, she mapped out zones, with storage on one side and clothing on the other. She grouped pants and shirts together for easy pairing. In addition, Hofer created new systems using dividers, baskets, bins and labels. Belongings were sorted into categories with corresponding baskets to encourage daily organization and editing. The final product was a practical and beautiful closet, set up to evolve with age.

“Mindy’s projects always leave me staring at my newly organized spaces,” Carly Ferguson said.

SIX STEPS FOR SUCCESS

Make a plan

Grab a measuring tape, pencil and paper to sketch the space you envision. Measure the entire area, so you know which products will work well.

Clear out and clean

Don’t leave anything behind, even if you know it’s going back into the space. Then clean the empty space.

Group similar items

Identify categories based on function.

Review and reduce

Are there items you aren’t using anymore? (Or will never use?) Dump or donate them.

Create new systems

Where are your problem areas? Put new systems in place to provide solutions. Add labels to specify zones.

Get everyone involved

Encourage others to take ownership of the area. This will help keep it tidy.

DESIGNING

SCATTERED ACROSS THE FLOOR IN AMBER BROWN Matlack’s office are fabrics, tiles and materials that go with about eight separate projects that she is working on for her design clients. They are grouped together in order to easily see color and pattern choices, and for her and her clients to get an idea of what a project will look like when it comes together. More inspiration hangs on one side of the wall of her offices near N.W. 31st St. and Hudson Ave.; others are behind built-in cabinets. Boxes of furniture line a room in the back, waiting to be delivered to their new and beautiful homes. Matlack, the owner of Brown Interiors, Inc., has grown her interior design business since she started it in 2004 in Ardmore, commuting both to Dallas and Oklahoma City to work with S her home design clients. At the time, her husband Ryan owned a restaurant in Ardmore, where they both grew up. Today, she and her husband have four daughters between the ages of 6 and 17 and work closely together, too. In 2017, the Matlacks’ Oklahoma City home in the historic Edgemere District became one of Amber Matlack’s major projects – and a labor of love – as she renovated it to fit the entire family of six. The project also fit in with another of Amber’s design interests: historic preservation. “I love the historic renovations. I get them. I like ones that have not been touched. We’re the third owners of the house and it’s 100 years old,” Amber Matlack said. “So virtually untouched. That’s amazing.”

RIGHT: The living room features a fireplace with a Pietra Grey marble slab surround, high-backed chairs from Noir Furniture, a Lee Industries sofa and a faux shagreen coffee table from Interlude Home. BELOW: Interesting knickknacks give the room a homey feel.

They bought the Tudor-style home built in 1935 so she would have a place to stay from time to time as her work got busier in Oklahoma City. It had three bedrooms but only one bathroom.

“I was thinking, ‘I’m just going to buy a little flip house, something small that I can live in when I’m here, that I can do some work on myself,’” she said. “‘And then we’ll just sell it because I don’t know if or when we’re going to move.’”

But that small, 1,500-square-foot house turned into a much bigger project when Ryan Matlack sold the restaurant and the entire family moved to Oklahoma City for her growing design business.

After extensive renovation and new construction that aligned with historic preservation standards, the home is now a two-story, four-bedroom, three-bathroom house with a mudroom, open kitchen, dining room and formal living room. The renovation included new electrical wiring and plumbing, too. Many of the fixtures are of unlacquered brass, which ages over time in a way that Matlack loves – “a living finish,” she said.

LEFT: Kitchen highlights include lofted ceilings that follow the roofline and and a pair of windows, original to the home. CENTER: Chinese calligraphy paint brushes are among the accents on the living room coffee table. RIGHT: Amber Brown Matlack often incorporates unlacquered brass in décor, because she likes the way the patina ages over time.

LEFT: The backsplash, in Viola Marble from Aria Stone Gallery, plays well with neutral tones throughout the kitchen, like the walls painted in Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore and cabinets painted in Dead Salmon by Farrow and Ball. BELOW: A luxurious retreat, the bathroom boasts a freestanding tub from Victoria and Albert and a glass shower open on both ends.

The house has the original arched doorways, and the formal living room is mostly intact from the original residence, including its coved ceiling combined with a tray. The windows are also original to the home and were restored for modern-day use with added storm windows. The quarter sawn oak wood floors in the living room are original, too, and she used the same material – quarter sawn oak – for the new floors to keep it consistent.

Matlack added a marble surround to the fireplace in the formal living room, giving it a modern feel; the marble is Pietra Gray from the Ana Stone Gallery.

In the kitchen, what used to be a small, galley-style kitchen with a breakfast nook has been transformed. The ceilings are higher, now encompassing the entire frame of the home, and the Matlacks removed the wall dividing the original kitchen and dining spaces. The striking backsplash features Viola Marble from the Aria Stone Gallery. The appliances are built-ins.

The space they used for the mudroom originally was part of a bedroom, which is now divided between the back entrance/mudroom and an expanded master bedroom. The floors are formed of three types of honed marble, cut and laid in a pattern.

ABOVE: A geometrically framed mirror from Bliss Studio pairs well with vintage wooden chairs by Clubcu. LEFT: Grass-cloth walls from Thibaut and art from Benson Cobb Studios create a soothing vibe.

The master bedroom still has the home’s original windows, but the entire bedroom, bathroom and wardrobe suite features 400 square feet of new construction over an area that once was part of the backyard deck. The Matlacks wanted to create a casual but serene room hidden away from the rest of the downstairs. If the door is closed, guests can’t tell they’ve walked by the master suite.

Before she started focusing exclusively on her own residential clients, Matlack worked in the hospitality industry, creating interiors for hotels, restaurants, corporate offices and more, gaining experience in all aspects of design. She eventually became director of design for a worldwide hotel company, JHM Hotels, which worked on hotels associated with brands such as Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, Taj India and Starwood brands.

With her expertise in both business and design, she often serves as a general contractor for her clients’ projects in addition to the design. Her understanding of contracting, construction, project development and architecture make her a true asset to any project.

Ryan Matlack is developing the designer delivery side of her business – warehousing items ordered for clients, inventorying and verifying them as they come in, unboxing them and then offering whiteglove delivery to their new homes. There’s a need for that service in Oklahoma City, and such services are growing more popular elsewhere, Amber Matlack said.

Growing up, Amber Matlack was the child who was always rearranging her room, asking for new bedding, trying out new colors and painting her room herself. She didn’t realize until later that she could sketch out rooms from memory after seeing them once, and detail them for clients in drawings and sketches.

“So when I go to clients’ houses, sometimes I forget to take pictures, but I can ‘walk’ it again. I can still see it,” Matlack said. “Every client’s house. I don’t realize that other people can’t do that … I think I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing.”

A custom crystal chandelier from Elegant Lighting hangs over the beautifully set dining room table with chairs from the French Market Collection.

ABOVE LEFT: A colonial-style arch transom, sidelight windows and Charleston Hardware Co. doorknocker welcome people to the Hilgenfeld home. ABOVE RIGHT: The fireplace mantel and built-in shelving are typical designs for federal colonial-style homes.

hen Laura Hilgenfeld

Wand her husband Brian wanted to build a home in Norman that would accommodate their family of four boys, ages 4 to 16, she knew right away she wanted to bring the South – where she grew up – to Oklahoma.

After moving here, she missed Charleston, South Carolina: her home, the water, her friends and her sense of place.

“You probably see it everywhere, in all my stuff,” Hilgenfeld said, referring to the Southern touches found throughout the house’s details. “I want it to feel like home to me.”

She decided she wanted to build a Federal Colonial style home in the tradition of the stately houses from South Carolina. She researched plans and architectural details online for accuracy, and sketched out the rooms she wanted, aiming to keep it authentic enough to the style she was seeking, while remaining livable and modern enough for her family to enjoy.

“It was hard to find anybody who could do what I wanted to do stylistically. So I drew everything out myself, like floorplan-wise,” she said, noting that she brought plans from online sources such as a University of Virginia architecture site to meetings with a local architect. “People always talk about this house because it feels different. It feels very like the Deep South, but it’s very stylistically different from anything you see around here.”

The Hilgenfelds hired David Williams, a longtime family friend, to build it. Gretchen Clark with Gretchen Clark Interiors helped her with materials, marble, countertop, trims and other design ideas, including the door casing that separates the stairway hall from the foyer. Nina Wadley with No Coast Designs helped her, too. Hilgenfeld’s brother, who still lives in South Carolina, drew up the landscape plans.

“It was a fun challenge to have these beautiful spaces created with kids in mind,” said Clark, who described the home’s accents and decor as “neo-traditional” and classic. “We had fun creating a sense of history, while obviously it was a new build.”

The Hilgenfelds moved into their home four years ago, and it’s overflowing with items that make Laura and her family – and any guests – feel right at home.

The Federal Colonial style often is two rooms deep with a lot of natural light, Hilgenfeld said. Her home has six-over-six-pane windows – double hung – with sashes reminiscent of Southern residences. It has a larger kitchen than is typically found in classic colonials. The walls are smooth, with some grasscloth wallpaper – another very Southern tradition – and rectangular dental molding throughout.

“It’s funny, I’ve had a couple of my friends tell me that I ‘do old lady well,’ and so for me, I’m like, it’s not ‘old lady.’ I think it’s classy and endearing,” she said. “I am not a trendy girl … I would rather pick something that’s timeless and elegant and classic.”

Hilgenfeld said she wants to use pieces and touches that are beautiful now and will be beautiful 50 years from now, no matter what the trends are.

When you first walk past the boxwood shrubs leading up to her front door, you’ll see wooden shutters with the traditional hardware known as “shutter dogs,” gas lanterns and a door knocker that remind Hilgenfeld of Charleston homes. She ordered these special touches from Southern companies.

Laura Hilgenfeld sketched out kitchen cabinetry and crown molding designs with Lisa Williams, the wife of her builder, the late David Williams.

A four-poster bed adorned with Schumacher fabric pillows, Grace Allen linen draperies and a Visual Comfort chandelier come together beautifully in the bedroom.

TOP: The Chesterfield-style couch from Henry Home Interiors in Norman has options for reclining or lying flat. BOTTOM: The living room features a Henredon circular gold table nestled between a pair of custom chairs from Henry Home Interiors.

A photo grouping shows well known places throughout Charleston, as captured by Kim Graham -- the same photographer who took the Hilgenfelds’ engagement, wedding and family photos.

LEFT: Heirloom silverware in the Towle Silver Old Master pattern makes this formal table extra special. BELOW: The primary bedroom includes a cozy sitting area with an antique mirror and a collection of floral prints.

“I wanted it to be right,” she said.

The home has five bedrooms and an extra one that they use as a playroom, along with five full bathrooms and two powder baths. She wanted everyone to have their own spaces where they can gather and enjoy having friends over. Her 16-year-old said he loves hanging out in the room with the pool table.

An outdoor room by the pool includes a comfortable seating area, a grill and bar area, and heavy shutters that you can open or close to block weather elements.

White Italian marble tops the kitchen island; other counters are granite. Her cabinets are glazed. Much of the paint she used is from Farrow & Ball, known for its hues based on historic color palettes.

She also used antiques throughout, many of which mean something to her. The wheat back chairs in her kitchen nook came from a family for whom she nannied in Charlotte and are more than 100 years old. She has her grandmother’s armoire, which her great-grandfather built by hand with wooden dowels. He used to put his boots in it, many years ago.

On one wall of the dining room hang photographs of different scenes in Charleston taken by Hilgenfeld’s friend, photographer Kim Graham. They show the I’On Club, where the Hilgenfelds had their wedding reception, and the Sword Gate House. Another is of a street named Legare, pronounced “Legree,” which is also the name as the Hilgenfeld family golden doodle. An updated crystal chandelier hangs over the dining table, and in the entryway are sketches of architectural plans from old Southern buildings.

“She loves and appreciates all of the little details. She is a great hostess, so we definitely thought through ways for her home to be hospitable. It was a super fun project to work on in Oklahoma,” said Clark. “It is very unique and personal, with a historic feeling toward her roots.”

Clark said the Hilgenfelds even painted the outdoor ceilings on the porches with “haint blue,” another Southern tradition. Haint is a variation of the word “haunt,” and the blue, according to tradition, warded off ghosts and evil spirits.

In the game room upstairs, another Southern touch – handmade bricks from the Old Carolina Brick Co. – provides the backsplash for the bar area, which is stocked with a jug of moonshine that her dad made and cans of Cheerwine Soft Drink, a Southern staple Laura Hilgenfeld orders from North Carolina. Right off the game room is a workout room.

The family has enjoyed the home the last four years, and its Southern charm has made Laura Hilgenfeld feel more at home. But she’s also already planning her next one, to be built on a larger lot a couple doors down. She’ll keep the same homey, classic Southern feel, but she already knows what the style will be: Georgian.

Blind Alley

BLIND ALLEY IS more than blinds, shades and shutters. Yes, they will come to your home whenever it’s convenient for you to measure your windows and provide a free estimate. Of course, they can fit any window’s unique size or shape. And are you wanting automatic, motorized shades? No problem.

As the metro’s go-to source for Hunter Douglas, quality products are a given. The “more” at Blind Alley is found in the personal relationships owners Joe and Allyson Zupin have built with clients throughout the years. They say it’s their favorite part of the job.

“We really love being part of this community!” said Allyson Zupin, an Oklahoma native. ““We are a small, veteran- and family-owned business. There are six of us, at most, and we love working together and building relationships with our customers to make sure everyone gets that one-on-one personalized service.”

Blind Alley has been in business 35 years. Their success derives from providing clients window treatment solutions for any room in the house and always giving them and their projects personal attention.

“We are completely involved in every aspect, from the initial contact, to the day of installation,” Zupin said. “All of our products are custom made to order, as well as personally installed.”

3839 NW 63RD ST OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73116 BLINDALLEYOKC.COM

Cover Your Pergola

PERHAPS IT’S RARE, but there are companies that give their employees a sense of “buy-in” and the freedom to build the business in their own way, says Aaron Bark. He’s the manager of Cover Your Pergola, a plastic distribution company that services Oklahoma homes with outdoor coverage including pavilions, gazebos, greenhouses and, of course, pergolas.

Cover Your Pergola opened in OKC during February of 2020 as a pilot location under the umbrella of Regal Plastics out of Dallas. The family-owned franchise, operated by the Gono family, saw a business opportunity in Oklahoma’s fondness for outdoor living.

“This polycarbonate see-through material is designed for roofing applications,” says Bark. “With outdoor living, these systems are a perfect match, combining protection from the elements while still bringing in the light. Oklahomans will absolutely benefit from these systems. We have created our own network of contractors in the OKC metro and Tulsa, as well as Edmond, South OKC and Norman.”

Late 2019, prior to Cover Your Pergola, Bark saw a job posting that caught his eye. “No bureaucracy. No Bull****. Work doesn’t have to suck,” he recalls. “I liked what they had to say, so I called them. When I started on January 6th of last year, I walked into a 5,200-square-foot empty shop. Now, we have a full shop of material and even added a delivery truck to better serve our partners. It’s great to be at a place that celebrates growth.”

As of September, with only three people at the location, Bark, Brandon Hodges, and Jason Champ, the company has grown over 40% since last year. “This would not have been possible without these guys next to me.” Bark says. “It really is all about our partners, our employees, and the network we have built here.”

At Cover Your Pergola, people aren’t treated like transactions, Bark says. “We are in business to make partners while helping to create lifelong memories for Oklahoma families.”

PERGOLACOVER.COM 7424 MELROSE LN OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73127

Edmond Music

IF YOU’RE PASSIONATE about music, chances are you’re familiar with Edmond Music, Larsen Music, and Gilliam Music. Family-owned-and-operated businesses for almost 50 years, they are a mainstay of the music scene in the 405.

Owners Mike Gilliam and Scott Starns and their knowledgeable staff work to bring clients the best in pianos, band instruments, guitars, drums, accessories, sheet music, sales and service at the most competitive prices.

“Music is an integral part of our lives and our employees’ lives, whether it’s performing or teaching,” Starns said. “We love helping others find their passion in music.”

The stores are especially known for their high-quality, beautiful selection of pianos. They have represented Steinway & Sons pianos since 1986, Kawai pianos since 1973, and Yamaha pianos since 1966.

Their pianos are valued by musicians and homeowners alike for their beauty as a statement piece and a way to entertain guests.

“A piano can be a great way to unwind after a stressful day, bring the family together and provide a focal point for any style of decor,” Starns said. “They truly are a piece of art.”

Whether you’re a music aficionado or a casual observer, the teams at Edmond Music, Larsen Music and Gilliam Music will make you feel like family.

“Our employees are the praise leaders at your church, the teachers at your school, the performers you watch on the weekend, the parents in band class and the friends in your community,” Starns said. “We know where you’re coming from and we know where you’re trying to go!”

EDMOND MUSIC 3400 S BROADWAY EDMOND 405.348.0004

LARSEN MUSIC 4001 NW 63RD ST OKLAHOMA CITY 405.843.1573

GILLIAM MUSIC 2280 W MAIN ST NORMAN 405.321-0080

EDMONDMUSICINC.COM

Edmond Kitchen, Bath, Home

THE TEAM OF Edmond Kitchen, Bath, Home, led by Brenda and Robert Helms, brings more than 20 years of industry experience to every project they take on, giving clients a sense of confidence and peace of mind. Their personal approach to design and commitment to operating with integrity while providing the absolute best in kitchen, bath and cabinetry design has led to a reputation as one of the finest design build firms in the metro.

The downtown Edmond showroom showcases an incredible selection of design materials, including custom cabinetry made right here in Oklahoma. Their licensed and degreed designers and tenured crew use modern tools and software to expertly design, estimate and install projects that have been highly recognized in the design industry.

405.285.1926 EDMONDKITCHEN.COM 243 N BROADWAY EDMOND, OK 73034

The Finer Things

Referencing the purchase of upscale items, a person may use the wellknown phrase “the finer things in life.” However, we believe that true luxury exists beyond the tangible things you buy and bring home.

The experience—working closely with a local artist, curator or shop owner— can be every bit as luxurious. When choosing things that make life more beautiful, comfortable and enjoyable, take time to collaborate with the experts. They are ready to provide insight and answer your questions.

Having a personal guide on each of your shopping adventures may be the finest thing of all.

Sleeping Beauty

FOR HIGH-QUALITY COMFORT, INVEST IN LUXURY LINENS

BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER

NO ONE CAN deny the luxury of a great night’s sleep. Research shows a strong connection between how well you sleep and how good you feel, so the quality of your bedding shouldn’t be overlooked.

A 2020 New York Times article rating the best linen sheets summarized fabric options:

While cotton sheets can feel either crisp and cool (in the case of percale) or silky and warm (as with sateen), linen has an airy feel, but the fabric also has some weight to it (like a very light blanket). The texture grabs onto your body and keeps it in place … [Linen is] often touted as a great sheeting fabric for summer, because it’s so breathable. However, we’ve also found linen sheets to be comfortable and insulating in the winter, so we recommend them for year-round use.

Bella Notte Linens was highlighted in the article as the best splurge for softest linen sheets. Based in San Francisco, Bella Notte is known for its linen collection, its best seller. It also offers velvet, cotton and lace pieces, which can be layered together to create a romantic, bohemian-chic look.

In Oklahoma City, Wood Garden’s wall of large Bella Notte fabric swatches makes it easy to visualize color and texture as you mix and match bedding options.

“Bella Notte is more about textures than prints, so I think that’s what makes it so luxurious, soft, and inviting,” said Amie Cook of Wood Garden Custom and Design Studio. Cook, who owns the store with her mother Janice Carty, has been selling Bella Notte for 20 years. “I’ve been doing it for so long that I’ve done a million different combinations. They’re all different, and they’re all beautiful. You can do a bed that’s all one color, with mixed textures, and that’s just as beautiful as layering with different colors.”

Bella Notte bedding is dyed upon order, and it is truly machine washable. Cook appreciates how the pieces don’t shrink or fade, even after years of washing.

“It’s an investment that you keep for a really long time; it will last as long as you want to keep it,” she said.

For those on a smaller budget, Cook can layer in different lines— such as Lili Alessandra, SDH Fine European Linens, and Leitner Leinen—to achieve the same highend look at a lower price point. Wood Garden also sells beds, nightstands, lamps and art, working with customers to fill in missing pieces or furnish the entire bedroom. Shoppers often bring drapery or chair fabrics into the store as a starting point for projects.

Invest in the softest sheets, layer in textures and top off the look with customized pillows. Then, your bedroom becomes your sanctuary. Ahhhh … what a luxury indeed.

FURNITURE • DRAPERIES • BEDDING • UNIQUE ACCESSORIES 848.9663 • 7650 N. WESTERN, OKC We started our family-owned business in a small space with barely enough merchandise to fill it, and have grown through “ several expansions thanks to the support from long-time customers and new ones stopping in to explore. Just as styles and trends change through the years, so have we, and we are proud of what our store is today. We couldn’t have done it without our wonderful clients and friends; thank you for trusting us with your most sacred place… your homes. We are truly grateful! ” Amie and Janice

The Refined Kitchen

HIGH-END PRODUCTS AND THOUGHTFUL DESIGNS ELEVATE THE HEART OF THE HOME

BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER

HAVE YOU EVER noticed that when you’re entertaining in your home, everyone seems to end up gathering in the kitchen? There is definitely an allure to the kitchen, especially when fine materials and products are incorporated into the design. Adding an expansive marble island with custom barstools makes the room extra inviting.

Dusty Hutchison, vice president of the Central Oklahoma Home Builders Association, said the kitchen has been the focal point of the home since the beginning of time.

“We all need fuel. We all need warmth. Go back in history, and the kitchen is where the food and fire were,” said Hutchison, who also owns Alder Fine Homes. “It has always been the main element of the home.”

Given the popularity of open-concept floor plans, where your cooking space is highly visible, the kitchen remains king.

“People want to put a lot of money there, because you have the financial input of cabinetry, appliances, space allocation for cooking, countertops, lighting and hardware,” Hutchison said.

He added that a recent design trend is to build two kitchens—a primary kitchen that accommodates groups, which opens up to the living or dining room, and a secondary kitchen behind it, for caterers to work behind the scenes.

Having a second kitchen is a great concept for entertaining. After all, kitchen designs are driven by lifestyle preferences. Will there be annual family gatherings in the home? How many people are in the family? Will the space be hosting large parties or small, intimate groups? How do you see yourself enjoying the space? Such questions guide the overall layout and product selections.

“We sell a lifestyle that is best suited for each home owner,” said Claude Rappaport, owner of Culinary Kitchen. Located at 7222 N. Western Ave., the store provides hands-on demonstrations of many upscale appliance brands. “We ask the customers to tell us what they like to cook. What are their aspirations? We teach them how to cook in our live showroom.”

Designing and building a kitchen to best suit your needs is no easy task, but professionals agree the effort pays off. Not only does having a dreamy kitchen add market value to your home, it also adds value to the time spent in your home.

“It is important to invest time, energy and money into your kitchen design, so you only have to do it once,” Rappaport said. “Your kitchen needs to fulfill all of your culinary needs.”

The Dos’ of Décor

COMBINE TREASURED PIECES WITH NEW FINDS TO REFRESH A ROOM

BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER

PAINTING WALLS AND

purchasing furniture definitely transforms a room, but there are more approachable ways to refresh your interior design, especially on an ongoing basis. Let home accents—art, throw pillows, lamps and eye-catching accessories—do the heavy lifting.

To begin, identify items already in your possession that hold special meaning to you. It could be a family heirloom, a vacation purchase or even something obscure—your grandfather’s reading glasses, for example. Often the most important pieces in your home décor are those with a story; those that make a home uniquely yours.

In The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Marie Kondo advised, “If you can say without a doubt, ‘I really like this!’ no matter what anyone else says, and if you like yourself for having it, then ignore what other people think … I can think of no greater happiness in life than to be surrounded only by the things I love.”

Your own treasures may guide you to adopt a certain theme or color palette when purchasing new accessories. Mindy Brown of ME Home at 2925 W. Wilshire Blvd. in OKC said the dining room table, entry table, mantel and bookshelves are all prime locations for seasonal updates. For seven years Brown has worked alongside her sister, interior designer Elaine Price, as co-owners of the store.

“I don’t like to go in with all new [things]. I think when you do all new in a space, it can come off as trendy,” Brown said. “There’s an art to mixing the old and new. It’s almost like you practice, and each time you do it, you get a little better.”

Both Price and Brown like to see the client’s home to provide context for the décor.

“Just walking into the store and picking something out is hard, so we go to their home, or they show us pictures of their space,” Brown said.

Plus, your décor does not need to be 100 percent functional, so don’t overlook décor that makes you smile.

“Whimsical and happy—those are the two words I use to describe some of these accessories the most. They just give you joy when you see them,” Brown said.

Try mixing a lamp with bulky art books, fresh seasonal flowers, and, say, a bronze bust. Artwork can also personalize the space. Brown says she often uses small art to accessorize bookshelves, and ME Home can commission one-of-a-kind pieces.

A few personal treasures, some seasonal finds and a dash of the unexpected—that’s a refreshing combination that’s sure to please the room.

Elevate Style With Tile

CUSTOM DESIGNS GO BEYOND KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS

BY LISA LLOYD

FEW THINGS SAY luxury like custom tilework in a home. Tile can easily transform the most mundane areas of a home into works of art. Especially when used in unconventional ways, tile draws the eye and elevates the style of a home.

Interior Designer Cody Thomson of Thomson + Thomson says she loves the juxtaposition of conventional materials being used in unique applications.

“We tend to get so hung up on how a material ‘should’ be used that we don’t think creatively,” she said. “Tile is beautiful, durable and low maintenance, and [it] can have a place in almost every room in a house.”

Tile is most often found in kitchens and bathrooms, but changing up your style with tile isn’t limited to those spaces. Brightly patterned mosaic tile on an accent wall is really eye-catching. Also, floor-to-ceiling tile can be a show-stopper in any home. Wainscoting is always a popular design element, especially among those who favor the farmhouse aesthetic. Replacing an area of wainscoting with tile gives an added, unexpected flair to a hallway or living space. Plus, stair risers with outdated carpeting can be boosted with a pop of colorful, geometric tile.

Although it’s one of the most commonly used materials, tile at Artisan Tile Studio in Nichols Hills is anything but ordinary. Building on more than 50 years of combined experience, studio owner Sydnye Steen has acquired the most expansive collection of tile in Oklahoma City. Her brandnew 7,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse at 300 W. Wilshire is carving out a niche as a go-to destination for luxury tile.

“We have tiles from all over the world to match anyone’s personal style,” Steen said. “We provide one-on-one consulting and sales, and we will go the extra mile on every project to fulfill special requests and get customers exactly what they need.”

Steen said natural stone products are always popular in luxury homes, but the sky’s the limit when it comes to custom options.

“Our industry has come so far in customization,” she said. “We have some amazing tiles that look just like wallpaper, and our zellige tiles come in stunning mosaic patterns. They are starting to be used here in showers, backsplashes, flooring, accent pieces over fireplaces – just about anywhere.”

If you’re looking to get out of the ordinary, get into a unique home project with customized tile. By adding color, pattern and creative tilework in unexpected places, you may soon be the talk of the town.

405.242.2227 @artisantilestudio 300 W Wilshire Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73116

The Art of Giving

LOOK TO LOCAL SHOPS FOR EXTRA-SPECIAL GIFTS

BY LISA LLOYD

GIVING A GIFT is one way we show love and appreciation for others, but we often struggle with what to give. Experts advise using yourself as a starting point for gift ideas.

“Everyone has a unique gift-giving personality based on their own passions and repertoire,” said Dana Holmes, executive editor of giftadvisor.com. “What do you love buying or can’t live without? Always start there. Then consider who you’re shopping for and what you can share with them.”

Consider a practical gift that’s been elevated, such as an antique vase presented with favorite flowers, a personalized set of fine stationery or beautifully patterned cocktail napkins. Gourmet foods appealing to a person’s culinary tastes are also thoughtful.

What to buy is one question; where to find it is another. Fortunately for those of us in the 405, unique local shops, like the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) Store, showcase an impressive array. OKCMOA Store manager Richard Bruner curates a diverse range of merchandise including art, home décor, jewelry and accessories, books, toys and more. Vendors include local artists as well as brands such as Jonathan Adler.

“The whole idea is to come into the museum store and see something new that you haven’t seen anywhere else,” he said.

True art aficionados will appreciate the selection of artist Dale Chihuly’s collector edition artwork. But even if you can’t tell a Michelangelo from a Monet, you’ll be impressed at the variety and accessibility of the store’s selection.

Bruner said the key to good gift-giving is to listen for hints—and then take it a step further.

“I try to tailor the gift to the person I’m giving it to—knowing what they have and don’t have,” he said. “But more importantly, [I identify] what they don’t know that they want.”

Though the store is located inside the museum, visitors need not purchase admission in order to shop. Purchases made in-store or online support OKCMOA.

If you know your loved one would rather have fewer “things” and more memories, The Oklahoma City Culture Box is for you. The OKCMOA has partnered with seven other local institutions to provide the ultimate museum experience, including two tickets and a free gift from each participating locale.

Shopping local is a great way to support the community and find a meaningful present. Such thoughtfulness may even earn you a reputation as a bona fide gift-giving artist. Now everyone can love and appreciate that.

Let in the Light

A BRIGHT APPROACH TO IMPRESSIVELY LARGE WINDOWS

BY LISA LLOYD

ONE OF THE most popular design trends in luxury homes is floor-to-ceiling windows with minimal window treatments, resulting in impressive sights from inside the home. Not only do large windows provide abundant natural light and uninterrupted views, but also they create a sense of not being confined.

“It’s a desirable thing to feel like you’re outdoors when you’re indoors,” said Ken Fitzsimmons, an architect with TASK Design, Inc. “We are evolved to follow the pattern of the sun. Being able to get natural daylight is a good thing for energy levels and overall well-being.”

And for homeowners with large statement windows, utilizing window film allows them to leave their windows uncovered by drapes or blinds while keeping safety and energy efficiency in mind. Technology has evolved to open a whole new world for window tint and film application, according to Jill Splitt with Jackie Cooper Tint & Electronics.

Jackie Cooper Tint & Electronics offers heat, glare and UV reduction film; frosted privacy film; security film; and custom designed film. It operates three companies to serve the metro—Oklahoma City Window Film, Edmond Window Film and Norman Window Film.

“We’ve been the leader in automotive tint for over 25 years here, so it was a natural fit for us to expand our business and get into residential and commercial tint, as well,” Splitt said.

In addition to working with homeowners directly, Splitt said the companies often work with homebuilders and architects to incorporate window tinting into building plans.

Anthony Blatt of Blatt Architects said that, when installed correctly, window film has numerous benefits for a residential or commercial property.

“Certain window tints can radiate heat back into the space during the winter months and radiate heat outward and away from the building during the summer months, saving on energy costs while improving comfort,” said Blatt. “Additionally, some window films are designed to reduce transmission of UV rays, protecting interior furnishings from fading and furniture degradation. Some window films lower the visible light transmission, providing increased privacy during the daytime hours.”

Fitzsimmons said people always request lots of windows, so it is important to incorporate them well.

“Windows can really make or break the character of a design,” he said. “It’s a big part of design, not just an afterthought.”

With the right professionals guiding design decisions, you can let the light in openly, in the biggest and brightest way possible.

What a Gem

DISCOVERING VALUABLES INSIDE YOUR JEWELRY BOX

BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER

WHEN CELEBRITIES STRUT

the red carpet, you know the necklaces, earrings, and bracelets they don are real. The sparkle! The shine! There’s no doubt you’re seeing high-quality gems.

Rummaging through old pieces inside your jewelry box, however, the quality may be harder to spot. Hand-me-downs from family or gifts from former love interests may appear dull, tarnished or worn. Yingjia Puk with Worthy.com recommends inspecting how the piece looks and feels for clues on quality.

“Unless the hallmarks have worn off from years of wear, all fine jewelry should have some type of stamp,” she said in a 2021 article, adding that quality metals have a heavier feel. “If you have two similar-looking gold chains with very different weights, one chain is likely fake or made of hollow gold links. Solid gold and platinum pieces have a significant heft to them.” It is only our job to give them an accurate assessment of what we think the value is, and if the pieces can withstand [redesign].”

With decades of experience, Naifeh has discovered design techniques to “wow,” even when starting with lesser quality materials.

“We’ve learned there are ways to make a small diamond look larger or a yellow diamond look whiter,” she said. “You can’t really change the stripes on the tiger, but you can certainly make those stripes shine better.”

Rediscovering pieces in your jewelry box and renewing their shine can make you feel red-carpet-ready. Now it’s your turn to dazzle the crowd.

Another tip: Examine the prongs. If you see sturdy metal prongs holding gemstones in place instead of glue, that’s a good sign. However, high-end costume jewelry can also have prongs to look more expensive. That’s when a local jeweler can help.

Valerie Naifeh of Naifeh Fine Jewelry says people often come in with questionable pieces, and her store is well equipped to appraise them. “We recommend people try to seek out a store that is a member of the American Gem Society, because the standards are so high, from an ethics standpoint, that only 5 percent of jewelers nationwide qualify for membership,” Naifeh said.

The American Gem Society requires the jeweler to have specific lab equipment and a gemologist on staff at all times. You can search members on the organization’s website, and Naifeh Fine Jewelers is a member.

Naifeh, a jewelry designer, noted jewelry doesn’t have to be the highest quality to be reconfigured into something beautiful. If it’s a meaningful piece, she recommends scheduling an appointment to discuss the possibilities.

“I will work with almost anything, unless it’s so badly chipped and broken that it’s going to chip and break more if we set it.” she said. “It’s not our job to tell people what is important and meaningful and what isn’t.

Ring created entirely from the client’s diamonds

18kt yellow gold

405.607.4323 | 6471 Avondale Drive Nichols Hills, OK 73116 | NaifehFineJewelry.com Monday-Friday 10am-5:30pm | Saturday 10am-5pm Financing available WAC

Forever Treasures

FINDING NEW LIFE FOR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES

BY LISA LLOYD

IF YOU’RE LIKE millions of Americans, you’ve likely gone through a wave of decluttering during the COVID-19 pandemic, cleaning out your attic or basement while stuck at home. It’s possible you’ve stumbled upon family heirlooms, valuable collectibles or other antiques you didn’t realize you had.

Maybe you listed those items on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Since the pandemic, experts say, it’s now easier than ever to buy and sell antiques online.

“The new technological comfort zone that we have all experienced from the coronavirus quarantine and virtual home-schooling has made many of us more comfortable with new methods to sell stuff, including art, antiques and collectibles online,” said Lori Verderame, an antiques appraiser and TV personality.

Andy Rapoport and Dale Kremeier are the owners of Decades Revisited, a 9,000-square-foot antiques mall with more than 60 vendors located on historic Route 66 in Oklahoma City. Cox said that with the number of reproductions on the market, it’s sometimes difficult to discern an actual antique from a replica.

“Online tools are available, but there is so much information,” Rapoport said. “If it’s something of real value, there are local appraisers.”

Although he doesn’t offer in-store appraisals, after more than 12 years in the industry, Rapoport certainly has his finger on the pulse of the antique market.

“Demand is increasing, especially in furniture and home décor,” he said. “Things were made a lot better way back then than they are now. Customers can find really good quality pieces that have held up at more of an affordable cost.”

If you’re looking for a specific item, Rapoport keeps a “wish list” for customers and will call if their item comes in. The mall also has a loyal following on social media.

“People are always on the hunt for something unique and different—it could be a rare item or even one of a kind,” Rapoport said. “Sometimes we do have a story about something, so we encourage customers to ask.”

Some of the more popular styles found in the store include mid-century modern, industrial design and the ever-popular urban farmhouse. Seasonal décor has also increased in popularity over the years, especially Halloween and Christmas items, as people change out their home décor.

Seasonal or not, your next find may just be worth a million dollars—or at least worth keeping in your home for a while.

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Fine Products

WHEN IT COMES to finding the “Finer Things” around the 405, we encourage you to seek out local shops and service providers. Not only will you be treated to outstanding customer service, but you’ll also find a few of these favorite products there.

1. Wise Owl Paint, Decades Revisited, 3639 N.W. 39th, decadesrevisited.com 2. Bella Notte Linens in Moonlight and Fig; The Wood Garden, 7650 N. Western 3. Custom window tinting, Jackie Cooper Tint & Electronics, 8001 N. Rockwell, jce.com 4. “Channel Mist Basket” by Dale Chihuly; Oklahoma City Museum of Art Store, 415

Couch, okcmoastore.com 5. Custom tilework, Artisan Tile Studio, 300 W. Wilshire 6. La Cornue Chateau enameled stove, Culinary Kitchen & Home, 7222 N. Western, culinarykitchen.com 7. Gold necklace with sapphires and diamonds by Valerie Naifeh; Naifeh Fine Jewelry, 6471 Avondale, naifehfinejewelry.com 8. Mid-century commode in sycamore; ME Home, 2925 W. Wilshire, mehomecollection.com

GATHERINGS

Inspirations to enhance your everyday occasions

Practically Perfect

Simple florals and familiar pottery bring a down-home sensibility to the table.