JUST ADD MILK

SUGAR COOKIES FOR EVERYONE

Fun and functional sweets call us to the table

BY COURTNEY PRYOR PHOTO BY BRANDON SMITH

CHRISTMAS IS MY FAVORITE time to gather with family and friends, when everyone brings different dishes to contribute to the meal. I enjoy making festive treats the most because they’re appreciated by kids and adults, and making these sugar cookies with my daughter was a sweet memory. Not only are they sparkly and decorative, but also they can serve as a place card for each person at the table.

INGREDIENTS FOR SUGAR COOKIE DOUGH: 1 stick unsalted butter at room temperature ½ cup sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 egg 1 tsp roughly chopped anise seeds 2 cups all purpose flour 1 tsp salt Sanding sugar sprinkles for decorating

INGREDIENTS FOR ICING: 11 ½ tbsp of meringue powder 1 cup confectioners sugar ½ tsp vanilla extract 3 tbsp water

1. Use a mixer to beat butter and sugar until well mixed and fluffy. 2. Add vanilla extract, egg and anise seeds and mix until combined. 3. Add flour and salt until dough forms. 4. Lay out 2 pieces of plastic wrap and put half of the dough onto each. 5. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or overnight. 6. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and roll out the dough onto a floured countertop or surface. 7. Use your favorite cutters to shape your holiday cookies as place settings and put on a baking sheet. Save your leftover scrap dough just in case you need to make more! This dough will not expand. 8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. 9. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before mixing all of the icing ingredients together. 10.Put the icing into a Ziploc bag and cut a small hole in the corner of the bag. Ice the cookies by outlining the shapes first and then filling in the middle. 11. Quickly sprinkle the sanding sugar while the icing is wet and let stand until the icing has set. GET MORE OUT OF YOUR CITY SUBSCRIBE TO 405 MAGAZINE! 405 connects you to the best of the Oklahoma City metro’s dining, events, travel and homes. Visit 405magazine.com to subscribe.

Industry Excellence Awards

For the first time ever, we polled our readers on their go-to homebuilders, interior designers and decorators, and kitchen and bath professionals. We asked them, “Who do you call on again and again?” and “Who do you recommend to friends?” — and the nominations poured in. With a list of local picks in hand, we hired a third-party research company, DataJoe, to vet submissions among industry peers. Now we’re ready for the big debut, and we’re thrilled to share this list with you. Congrats to our first-ever 405HOME Industry Excellence Award winners!

SUMMARY We went out looking for respected trade firms in the area. To this end, we conducted a multifaceted research process. First, DataJoe conducted a massive Internet research campaign to isolate the top trade firms in the region. Then, we polled the magazine’s readers, asking them to nominate their favorite providers in various trade areas. Finally, DataJoe conducted a massive Internet “reputation” research campaign, reviewing indicators across a wide variety of online sources, including ratings, reviews, and memberships. In the end, we utilized a proprietary algorithm combining all of the above metrics to then score each company. This list reflects the entities with the highest scores. FINAL NOTE We recognize that there are many good trade firms that are not shown in this representative list. This is a sampling of the huge array of reputable firms within the region, but it is by no means exhaustive. Inclusion in the list is based on metrics and other information that we were able to gather in our independent research. We take time and energy to ensure a fair, multifaceted process, although we understand that the results of this research project are not purely objective. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective trade firms may not appear on the list. DISCLAIMERS DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe.

GSB, INC.

GSB, Inc. Architects & Planners has been creating signature spaces in Oklahoma and across the country for 43 years. GSB’s team of professionals, led by firm Principals Ronald G. Smith, Michael Hinchey, Phil Elwell, Larry Schwab and Ryan Eshelman, is dedicated to providing clients with expertly designed projects and outstanding customer service. GSB works collaboratively with residential clients to create unique design solutions tailored to their exact needs.

Each home is designed to reflect the client’s personality and is truly one-of-a-kind. Recent projects have included a spacious classical-style estate home with main house and guest house, an airy Palm Springs mid-century modern inspired ranch home renovation and a contemporary two-story residence centered on the client’s love of art and nature.

In addition to single-family residences, GSB is well-known for its hospitality portfolio which ranges from boutique hotels to destination resorts. Furthermore, GSB has substantial expertise designing clubhouses and amenity centers for luxury residential communities across the country.

Contact GSB to help turn your vision into a reality!

405.848.9549 | gsb-inc.com 3555 NW 58th Street, Suite 700W Oklahoma City, OK 73112

SHELLBACK GENERAL CONTRACTING

Named for the skill and courage of seasoned sailors whose ships have crossed the equator, Shellback General Contracting provides Oklahoma City and surrounding areas expert preconstruction planning, design-build and construction management services.

Since its founding in 2013, Shellback has enjoyed stable and steady growth by building a solid and dependable management team that offers over 150 years of combined industry experience. Unlike larger firms, Shellback’s close-knit team of professionals and subcontractors provides clients with a personalized approach to meeting unique needs and project requests. “We’re known for fostering successful relationships and doing the right thing – always,” says Matt Richardson, President. “It’s how we’ve maintained our base of repeat clientele, like Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, OKC Thunder, Continental Resources and the FAA. Our team stays consistent and committed to providing impeccable work and we value personal connections.”

Its list of successful projects span industries such as retail, industrial, hospitality, education, federal and healthcare – but restaurants have organically become a special niche for Shellback, with notable groups such as Social Order, Boomarang Diner and Hal Smith Restaurants. Richardson says, “We know that a building is much more than brick and mortar. Our clients serve specific needs in our community, and they appreciate a firm that embodies integrity, collaboration and building lasting relationships. Their passion becomes ours when we take on the privilege of creating that space for them.”

SPOT ON REMODELING CORPORATION

Spot On Remodeling Corporation has been a premier remodeler servicing Oklahoma City and surrounding areas for over 20 years. While Spot On Remodeling offers services for both residential and commercial projects, its specialization is in kitchen and bathroom remodels.

Owner Norm Irwin described a project that had significant design challenges. “One of our most recent projects was a kitchen remodel,” said Irwin. “It was a small, closed-off and dysfunctional layout. To improve functionality, we removed a portion of the wall between the living room and kitchen, which created a more open and inviting space. We repurposed an unused closet into a practical pantry, added stainless appliances and installed shaker-style cabinets and granite countertops. The finished project is gorgeous, airy and, most importantly, exactly what our client wanted.”

Remodeling can be a stressful experience, and it is easy to make missteps during planning, such as underbudgeting, purchasing items that don’t fit the space or even forgetting to get the proper permits. Hiring a contractor with the knowledge, manpower and equipment to get the job done right is essential.

“When remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, I recommend hiring a general contractor to manage the project,” said Irwin. “General contractors bring together subcontractors that are skilled and properly vetted. Before choosing a contractor, research them, read reviews, ask for references and ensure they understand your vision and are willing to work with you to create the space of your dreams.”

405.219.9919 | mysorc.com | 11025 Westminster Lane, Oklahoma City, OK 73165

EXCELLENCE WINNERS

ARCHITECTS/ RESIDENTAL DESIGNERS

3 Level Design ADG Allen Brown Architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris LLC Andrew C Thomas Architect LLC Andrew Douglas Designs ARC Architecture Architects In Partnership Architecture Planning Technology LLC AWA Designs basis Design PLLC Birnie W Whitlow Architect LLC Blatt Architects Bockus Payne Architecture Butzer Architects and Urbanism Clark Design Office Cornerstone Architecture Crafton Tull Custom Architectural Drafting and Design Company D5 Architecture DAB Architecture Davis Design Group LLC Design Architects Plus Elliott Architects Inc Fitzgerald Associates Architects Inc Fitzsimmons Architects FLX Architecture & Interior Design FSB Architects & Engineers GH2 Architects LLC Green Couch Design GSB, Inc. Architects & Planners Guernsey HNTB höffnerdesignstudio Howard & Associates HSE Architects Integrated Architecture JDF Architecture + Design JHBR Architecture Krittenbrink Architecture LLC LWPB MA+ Architecture LLC Mass Architects Inc Miles Architecture Miller Mitscher & Associates Architects Newcomb Associates Pinnacle Design Group LLC Populous Preservation and Design Studio PLLC Prime Architects Rand Elliott Architects RBA Architects Rees Associates Inc Renaissance Architecture LLC Sam Gresham Architecture Sam Moore Architect Small Architects Space (Specialized Planning & Architecture for Church Environments LLC) Studio Architecture TAP Architecture TASK Design Inc The McKinney Partnership Architects Trinity Group Architects Troy D. Rhodes & Company Inc.

GENERAL CONTRACTORS

123 Remodeling LLC 4 Star General Contracting INC Abello’s Roofing & Construction American Standard Roofing Anderson & House INC Apollo Building Systems Inc

BDO Construction LLC Brewer Construction Burnett Construction LLC Callahan Steel Buildings Capstone Construction Services LLC Cavins Construction Group CD’s Construction LLC Central Weatherproofing LLC Circle K Construction Classic Contracting OKC Clearwater GC LLC Comanche Construction LLC Complete General Contractors LLC Complete Renovations OKC Construction Unlimited LLC Copeland Construction Inc Craftsmen Pride Construction LLC Crossland Construction Company Inc DBG Construction LLC DH French Construction Co Diversified Construction Eisel Roofing & Construction EV Cox Construction Company Federal Constructors INC Flintco LLC Gaither General Contracting GE Johnson Geddes-Armstrong Construction LLC GreenCo Roofing & GC LLC Guss Construction and Remodeling Hawn Bros Construction LLC Hixon Construction Company LLC Hoffman Weber Construction Home Renew Huffman Custom Homes Impact Construction Group LLC J&L Construction & Remodeling LLC JCM & Sons LLC JE Dunn Construction Company Jenco Construction Jenkins Restorations John Miller Homes LLC General Contracting and Consulting Jonathan Chillous LLC Keystone Construction & Excavation LLC L&L Retail Construction LLC Landmark Construction Group LLC LG Construction Co Inc Lippert Bros. Inc LWallace Companies MacGrath Contracting Manhattan Construction Company Mastercraft Roofing & Remodeling LLC MitchCo RR Construction Inc My Roof General Contractor Nabholz Construction Services Native Environmental LLC Old Home Rescue Paul Little Construction Phoenix Construction Services Pitch Perfect LLC Roofing & General Contractors Pizano Construction & More Power Roofing & Construction Precision Builders Precision Construction Group Prime Construction R&D Roofing and Construction LLC Ram Contracting LLC Redbud Construction Inc RGP Restoration LLC Rock General Contractors LLC Rose Hill Builders Rosete Construction LLC Ross Group S&R Construction and Remodeling Saldana Roofing & General Contractors INC SEMCO Construction Shellback General Contracting Smith & Pickel Construction Source Management Services LLC Southwind Construction Spot On Remodeling Corporation Stoneridge Enterprises Inc Sun Construction Services Texola Inc Thompson & Son Construction LLC Timberline Builders Triple Diamond Construction Twinco Contracting LLC

United Construction & Restoration VanHoose Construction We3 Dwellings WL McNatt & Company Z Construction

LANDSCAPERS

A Superior Design Co All Seasons Landscape Mgt All Terrain Landscaping and Design LLC Alyssa Collins Design Apple Valley Eco Landscapes Aynes Enterprises Bermuda Ridge Landscaping Brent’s Garden by Design Camacho Land Design CityScapes Lawn & Landscape Services CLS & Associates CM Designs Coffey Complete Complete Landsculpture Custom Lawn & Landscape Echelawn Complete Lawn & Landscape Flowers Landscape Design Freeman’s Landscape From The Ground Up Landscape, Design, and Construction Garza’s Green Grass Giant Landscape LLC Gray’s Landscaping Grissoms Landscape Nursery Havenscapes HFSD Inc Horticulture Services Inc KB Landscape & Tree Service Landscaping Ramirez LAUD Studio Legacy Lawn Design Maxwell Landscape Co McGovern Sprinklers & Landscaping LLC Modern Environment LLC Plan-It Landscape Precision Total Management Precure Nursery & Garden Center ProCurb Landscaping LLC RedRoots Riemer & Son Landscape & Irrigation Scapes Inc Serna Lawn Sherwood Gardens Landscape Design & Development Signature Landscape Squared Away Lawns Sunshine’s Garden Design LLC Sweetleaf Taylor lawn Management Inc TerraScapes Total Landscape Services Thomason Lawn Care TLC Garden Centers Total Environment Inc TurfWorks LLC Unique By Design Landscaping & Containers Woodard Landscapes & Design

Servicing Oklahoma City and surrounding areas for over three decades, Blind Alley is a premier choice for window treatments or for those who need a little extra help in redecorating their home. Their experts will help you create the perfect solution to complex design challenges. Family-owned and operated, Blind Alley exclusively offers a complete line of Hunter Douglas products.

Window coverings add beauty to a room, and consumers sometimes need guidance regarding current styles and trends, functionality, budgeting assistance, and the benefits of one model over another. “We recently worked with a couple that needed west-facing window coverings for their new home,” said owners Allyson and Joe Zupin. “They wanted energy-efficient shades that could help keep the record-breaking heat out of their home this summer. We recommended the Hunter Douglas Duette.”

An energy-efficient shade with an appealing aesthetic, the Douglas Duette is a creative window treatment that beautifies the home and helps insulate all year round. The Duette is the first cellular shade designed to provide energy efficiency in cold and warm climates. “The customers love the look and functionality of their new shades,” said the Zupins.

There are always cheaper options when it comes to window coverings. “With window coverings, you get what you pay for,” said the Zupins. “However, will someone else offer the same quality, selection, and customer service as Blind Alley? We will continue to be here for all your future window covering needs.”

405.848.0099 | blindalleyokc.com

LIVING

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF LIVING WELL

Boughs and Bows

DECKED-OUT HOMES OFFER HOLIDAY GREETINGS PAGE 68