2CM I Ceramic I Glass I Porcelain I Stone I Glass
Maryland Heigths and Springfield
Owen Stone I Crossville
FEATURES DEPARTMENTS
With a nod to Santa Barbara style, a refresh awakens a century-old Spanish Revival home.
Guided by 3-D renderings, a St. Louis couple could envision every finished space in their new home long before it was built.
PIONEERING SPIRIT
A Town and Country gardener uses his background in chemistry to transform his back yard into a movie set.
SPLISH SPLASH
From a kid's point of view, growing up with a pool in your back yard has many benefits. The biggest one being that everyone wants to play at your house! I was one of those lucky kids whose dad loved the water. If we weren't out boating on the Mississippi River or the Lake of the Ozarks, we were horsing around in the family swimming pool. There's no getting around it, St. Louis summers are HOT and there's nothing quite as refreshing as doing a cannonball into the pool, especially if you could aim that splash at an unsuspecting target!
My love for gardening was set in motion as my father and I tried to make educated guesses on which plants would grow fairly close to the pool and survive the many cannonballs that were sure to ensue. After several failed attempts, the sun-loving and hardy marigold won out. Through heat, chlorinated water and roughhousing, the marigold took on the challenge and still looked amazing in the fall when it was time to close the pool. As the saltwater pool has been gaining in popularity as the preferred pool sanitizer, I'm not sure if the marigold can survive salt exposure, but there are many plants that can (pages 50-51). Whether the planting area is close to a pool or not, success depends on positioning the right plant in the perfect spot, meeting its sunlight requirements and monitoring each plant's watering needs.
If you're thinking about installing a pool, there are countless pool options to choose from nowadays, from the pool material and pool size and shape to pool and patio finishes. Crystal Cobb was a lucky new homeowner that purchased a Clayton home that came with a "cocktail pool" as she calls it (pages 26-33). It's just the perfect size for her and her puppy, Reggie. Enjoy this Outdoor Living issue. We hope we've provided you with tons of inspiration to create beautiful living spaces beyond your sliding doors.
Happy Summer!
Suzie
Suzie Osterloh Publisher/Owner
River sees water and he's all in. Thank my lucky stars he didn't bolt and jump right into the pool.
Photography by Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton
Pages 50-51
PUBLISHER/OWNER: Suzie Osterloh
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Melissa Mauzy
MANAGING EDITOR: Maya Brenningmeyer
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Kim Dillon
COPY EDITOR: Carol Wayne
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Catherine Martin, Hanna Kolaks, Jeanne Delathouder, Julie Brown Patton, Kim Hill, Lucyann Boston, Michelle Mastro
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Andres Garcia Lachner, Anne Matheis, Alise O’Brien, Carmen Troesser, Jimi Smith, Karen Palmer, Megan Lorenz
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Colleen Poelker
DISTRIBUTION MASTER: Barney Osterloh
MARKETING + SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST: Zoe Miller
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: sosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com
EDITORIAL INQUIRIES: maya@stlouishomesmag.com
FOR SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: Email bosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com or visit www.stlouishomesmag.com
St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles Magazine
255 Lamp + Lantern Village Town & Country, MO 63017 636-230-9700 www.stlouishomesmag.com
©2024 by Distinctive Lifestyles LLC. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpts granted by written request only.
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PRESIDENT: Suzie Osterloh
VICE PRESIDENT: Barney Osterloh
St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles is a publication of Distinctive Lifestyles LLC
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RAIN or SHINE
Brave the summer months with colorful and durable outdoor fabrics and rugs.
By Maya Brenningmeyer
3 4 6 5 7 8 9
1. Pindler cabana collection outdoor fabrics in coral, available at Design & Detail.
2. Reef outdoor pillow cover in hydrangea, available at Serena & Lily.
3. Zuma outdoor pillow cover in grass, available at Serena & Lily.
4. Frond green fabric, available at Ethan Allen.
5. Wendy jane kubu taupe throw pillow, available at Forshaw.
6. Outdoor la raya pillow, available at West Elm.
7. Monterey outdoor performance rug, available at Pottery Barn.
8. Handwoven Mischa indoor/outdoor rug, available at Anthropologie.
9. Yin yang indoor/outdoor rug, available at West Elm.
SITTING POOLSIDE
By Melissa Mauzy
one. Sonesta Bay outdoor lounge chair in scout surf, available at Ethan Allen.
two. Sail out, by Cassina, available at Centro.
three. Octagonal market umbrella, available at Grandin Road.
four. Vigo teak chaise in natural teak, available at RH.
five. Hut outdoor daybed, available at Arhaus.
six. Gideon outdoor collection, available at Pottery Barn.
seven. Palma aluminum sofa in bronze, available at RH.
eight. Park Place collection, by Castelle, available at Amini’s.
nine. Arc En Ciel outdoor folding chairs, set of two, available at Anthropologie.
ten. Savoy chaise lounges, available at Forshaw.
eleven. Soleil chase, chair and umbrella table and market umbrella, available at Frontgate.
twelve. Savannah collection, by Jensen Outdoor, available at Design & Detail.
thirteen. Tropicalia daybed, by Moroso, available at Centro.
Making a SPLASH
NICOLE NEWKIRK
from OASIS POOLS gives us the inside scoop on keeping cool with backyard pools.
Edited by Maya Brenningmeyer
Starting Your Journey
The initial process begins with the desire to build your luxury oasis. We encourage homeowners to make initial contact with us immediately after deciding they are interested in a swimming pool. Homeowners should expect a collaborative and personalized experience, where expert designers and architects work closely with them to understand their aesthetic preferences, functional needs and any pre-existing easement, building setbacks and natural grade of their property. Once the design is approved and the construction contract has been entered, the official permitting process starts.
From the Ground Up
The best time to break ground is often influenced by seasonal and climatic factors, as well as the homeowner’s preferences for optimal usage. In our area, we have distinct seasons. The ideal period for finishing or starting new pool construction is typically during the early springtime, as this allows for favorable weather conditions and sufficient time for completion before the peak of the swimming season. However, in my opinion,
any time is a great time to start as it makes it sooner for the completion and the many years of use following!
Plunge into Personality
The customization options for a pool are pretty much limitless, allowing homeowners to tailor every aspect of their outdoor oasis to their exact preferences and lifestyle. In essence, the customization of a pool extends beyond its physical structure, allowing homeowners to infuse their personality and preferences into every detail, creating a personal backyard resort that is a true reflection of their unique lifestyle and vision.
Fencing and Gates
Installing a secure perimeter fence around the pool area with self-closing and self-latching gates is required in every city and municipality. There are mesh options that can be added and removed for smaller children if additional safety is wanted/ needed at your residence.
Alarms
Alarms on doors and windows that directly open into pool areas can provide an added
Photography by Jimi Smith
layer of security by alerting homeowners to any unauthorized access to the pool area and are also required in most cities and municipalities before final inspection approval.
Underwater Visibility
Clear and unobstructed visibility within the pool is crucial for monitoring swimmers, especially in deeper areas. Proper lighting, transparent water and the absence of underwater obstacles are important.
Safety Equipment
Access to safety equipment such as life jackets, reaching poles and first aid kits should be readily available near the pool area as a precaution.
Non-Slip Surfaces
Incorporating non-slip materials around the pool deck and entry points minimizes the risk of slips and falls, especially when surfaces may become wet or slippery.
Before You Build…
Establish a realistic budget based on your location. Prices vary. Locally, the cost to build is much higher because our projects are exposed to temperature extremes with freeze and thaw and construction methods cost much more when the extreme climate change is an issue. In addition, it’s also
important to understand your property, plan ahead, think hard when choosing materials and research your pool company before beginning construction.
Pool Maintenance
New pools are not nearly as much maintenance as they used to be. These systems are monitored via an app on your phone and are very user-friendly. We do have a service side of our company and offer a range of pool maintenance services to assist homeowners in ensuring the cleanliness, safety and proper functioning of their pools.
Season Opening and Closing Service
Oasis Pools handles the hassle of opening and closing pools at the start and end of the swimming season. Our process ensures that pools are properly prepared for changing seasons, protecting them from potential damage for the next season.
Weekly Maintenance
Our team of experienced technicians at Oasis Pool Services performs essential maintenance tasks, including skimming debris, vacuuming the pool floor and brushing the walls.
See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Pool Trends
Cold Plunge Pools
These refreshing pools offer health benefits by promoting circulation and reducing inflammation. They have become a must-have for health-conscious homeowners.
Pool Rehabs
Renovating older concrete pools is becoming a popular trend, offering a new swimming pool and gathering place without the commitment of completely starting over. Whether it's a simple resurfacing or a complete overhaul, renovated pools are being transformed into stunning, modern backyard resorts.
Automatic Covers
Auto covers are not new to the industry, but they are a trend that more and more customers are choosing to install. The major advantage to choosing an auto cover is not needing a fence around the entire area and being able to push a button to cover and uncover the pool.
Underwater Speakers
I think this is a great feature and it's something I’ve been seeing and hearing about as a trend in the industry. Sound systems and color changing lighting are always game changers in your outdoor living area.
APPEAL ART
Tortie Cat + Houseplants print and Siamese Cat + Houseplants print, available at angelastaehling.com
By
Not every artist hangs their artwork in galleries to sell. In fact, it can be more fulfilling and lucrative for artists to license their art to big name clients. That’s what Angela Staehling, artist of colorful illustrations, does for her artwork. Today, her bright and vibrant designs can be found on products available everywhere from Urban Outfitters to Barnes and Noble.
But Staehling didn’t start out licensing her art from the get-go. Ever since she was a child, she loved to illustrate, even though she would go on to get her degree in graphic design at the University of Illinois. From there, she worked as an art director at an advertising agency for many years.
Then by 2000, Staehling wanted to try something new and get back into her hand drawn art. So, she completed some mural paintings for different companies and residences. It was then that she met a good friend who owned a gift store. “She introduced me to the big world of art licensing,” Staehling says, “which basically is when an artist teams up with different manufacturers who license their work for different products.”
Staehling realized licensing her art offered the best of both worlds: she could explore a lot of different art styles but always have a customer lined up for her work. “I’ve always been someone who doesn’t want to lock themselves into one style,” she says. “Through licensing, I can work with so many clients with different needs and projects.” Hence no starving
Michelle Mastro / Photography by Kim Dillon
Angela Staehling licenses her art to big name clients who admire her work’s bright colors and happy motifs.
artist here. Plus, by licensing her art, her work could continue to evolve naturally.
Over the years, for example, Staehling’s art has morphed in terms of style. “My art used to be very traditional and realistic,” she explains. “But now I gravitate to pop art, with punchy, bright colors.” She also paints with liquid acrylic by hand but is adept at illustrating digitally, given her training in graphic design. Her ability to do many kinds of art combined with her works’ broad appeal has made her beloved by big clients like Barnes and Noble.
The bookseller recently opted to feature her art in calendars and books this past year. “It’s hard to keep track of where my art is currently,” she says, explaining how her work seems to be everywhere now. “But I try to share my latest collections on my website,” she says.
Starting this past M arch, Staehling has begun teaching her fellow artists how to license their art as well. The course, available on her website, teaches artists how to pitch their art, create a portfolio, and envision products for their work. “I walk artists through the entire process,” she says. “For an artist, licensing can be very freeing.” Having mastered the licensing process herself, Staehling knows just how true this is. See stlouishomesmag.com for more photos and resources.
"Protect Pickle Creek" (Hawn State Park, Missouri)
20.5"x26.75" oil on board.
2025 Seedlings US Cities 12 Month Wall Calendar available at Barnes and Noble
Santorini + Caribbean Beach prints
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
Ellie Redders Interiors is a luxury full-service design firm that specializes in new construction and large-scale renovations. For over a decade, Ellie Redders has earned a widespread reputation for her cutting-edge professional process, integrity in her partnerships and her innate ability to design elevated yet comfortable family spaces. Ellie and her team have developed a highly organized process paired with the use of cutting edge technology to support their clients’ path to livable luxury.
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
KH Interiors, LLC
Krista Howard, Allied ASID khinteriorsstl.com • 314-517-5502
KH Interiors, is an award winning design-remodel collaborative. We create interiors that are comfortably classic, rich and relaxed. Interiors that reflect your spirit and give you a place to call home. It begins with listening to our clients about their dreams of how they see themselves in their surroundings. We share how design can make their home flow more beautifully and give meaning to their space. Our team then gets to work instinctively to recreate the home they once knew into a haven that reflects their true essence. At KH Interiors, we ensure that every detail, every decision, and every moment is meaningful, intentional and gorgeous!
Three French Hens
Rae Sutton 636-458-8033 / threefrenchhenswildwood.com
20 years of unique and timeless design at St. Louis’s most beautiful furniture store! Third generation designer, Rae Sutton, at the helm, the 10,000 sq ft showroom is always changing and evolving. You’ll rarely find the same thing twice. Rugs, lighting, decor, fabrics, art, custom furniture and more can be found at Three French Hens with our fun and brilliant designers with years of experience ready to pull it all together. In-store or at-home, our design services are available for projects from total renovations to custom furniture to an accessory overhaul.
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
The Great Cover-up
Teddy Karl, Past President, Allied ASID
9708 Clayton Road, Ladue, MO 63124
314-995-5701 • greatcoverupdesign.com
The Great Cover-Up is a full-service interior design and home furnishings boutique. We offer interior design services including custom window coverings, custom furniture, re-upholstery, bedding, pillows, wallcoverings, accessories, lamps, and more. Unlike other design firms, We Don’t Charge An Hourly Rate which allows us to take pressure off our clients. This helps us create beautiful, fresh designs completed with time and care. We strive to make each client experience both time-honored and unique. Call or visit us today!
Virginia Tile
314-995-9900 • Virginiatile.com
Virginia Tile’s team of on-staff designers boasts a rich background in design and product training, poised to assist you seamlessly from the initial concept to the final installation. Our showroom provides an elevated shopping experience, featuring captivating displays that showcase vignettes and full-scale tiles, including the expansive range of large, gauged porcelain panels.
With a legacy dating back to 1928, Virginia Tile stands as a paragon of excellence, earning a distinguished reputation for delivering unparalleled products, exceptional customer service, and a keen adaptability to ever-evolving market trends. Central to our success is a thoughtfully curated selection of products that range from porcelain, ceramic, stone, glass, 2CM, and setting materials. This comprehensive range is meticulously tailored to cater to the diverse needs of both residential and commercial projects, ensuring that our clients find the perfect solution for their unique design visions and create the space of your dreams.
Island Stone, Waveline in Lagoon Gloss / Carmen Troesser Photography
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
California Dreaming
With a nod to Santa Barbara style, a refresh awakens a century-old Spanish Revival home.
By Kim Hill
Interior Design by ADJ Interiors
This is a California house located in Clayton, owned by a St. Louis woman with an affinity for all things Cali. While both home and human are firmly rooted in the Midwest, one reaches back in time while the other fondly looks to the West.
The owner, Crystal Cobb, is a St. Louis native who previously lived in Santa Barbara, where Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings topped with red-tile roofs reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage. “I loved everything about living there,” says Crystal, who moved back to St. Louis with her then-fiancé in 2020. A year later, the relationship ended, and Crystal found herself searching for a new home.
“My real estate agent, Alyssa Suntrup, knew I would love this house because it looks like it belongs in California,” Crystal says. “It wasn’t even on the market yet; she knew their realtor who said the owners might be interested in selling. I drove by, didn’t even see the inside, and said, ‘this is my house.’ I fell in love with it.”
The home’s existing “cocktail pool” sealed the deal for homeowner Crystal Cobb. “I was really looking for a house with a pool, and this one is perfect for me,” she says.
Photography by Alise O'Brien Photography
Metal gates open to the step-down living room, where the original ceiling beams were sanded and stained to highlight the room’s Spanish roots, including arched openings, windows and doors. The textural Kai console in the foreground features traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery of reclaimed pine. Right: Metal gates off the foyer are original to the Spanish Revival home.
The home is a two-story white stucco with arched windows and doors and a red-tiled roof. Built in the 1920s in the Spanish Revival style, the house is somewhat unique among traditional St. Louis architecture. “It has a pool, which for Clayton is practically unheard of,” says Crystal. “And it’s perfect for entertaining.”
With her Cali-style home secured, Crystal embarked on freshening the house into a “classy bachelorette pad” that would also emphasize the Spanish Revival architecture. “I felt like the home was dark and the architecture wasn’t highlighted at all,” Crystal recalls. “I wanted to make the house much brighter and feel cleaner while bringing it back to its Spanish-style roots.”
The first order of business—repainting gray walls in a soft white. Beams in the living room and primary bedroom that had also been painted gray were sanded and stained in a dark tone, which pops against the white ceiling. Metal gates opening from the foyer to both a curved metal staircase and the step-down living room are original
Above:
to the home and were left in place, part of the Spanish Revival charm so appealing to Crystal.
She turned to the team at ADJ Interiors for guidance for the home’s refresh and to add pops of color throughout. “We really leaned in to the Mediterranean vibe with blues and terra cotta inspired by the roof tiles,” says Alicia DeKold, designer with ADJ Interiors. “And she likes a little glam.”
The ADJ team went more than a little glam in the dining room. Although the room features large sliding doors and leads directly out to the pool, the previous owners had used the space as a TV room. “We went back and forth trying to decide the best use of this room,” says Crystal, “and settled on creating a formal dining room which the house previously lacked.” Existing built-in cabinetry received new wine racking, increasing its usability. The team upped the glam by papering the ceiling in Thibaut’s “Daintree” wallpaper and choosing a photographic print by California-based artist Stephanie Vovas to hang above the fireplace.
Crystal says she now hosts all Christmas Eve dinners, and on her first Christmas in her new home, the ever-changing St. Louis weather gifted us an 85-degree day. “We had Christmas dinner in the dining room with all the stack back doors open and it felt like we were in California,” says Crystal. “That is a very special memory for me.”
Outdoor living was an impor tant attribute for Crystal’s new home. “The outdoor space I have here is substantial for city central areas,” says Crystal, noting she has two connecting patios for relaxation. She calls her dainty pool a “cocktail pool”—perfect for her and her dog, Reggie, who practically lives in it in the summer, she says, and for hosting smaller gatherings of girlfriends. ADJ Interiors assisted with finding just the right configurations of loungers, chairs and tables to make the spaces work no matter how many guests are enjoying the outdoors.
Back indoors, entertaining continues in a petite space off the living room. The rounded nook is small and, after much discussion, the ADJ team turned the area into a bar and entertaining space for Crystal. Marc Christian Fine Cabinetry crafted custom round cabinetry with
ADJ Interiors designed numerous seating arrangements for the outdoor spaces, including this lovely spot featuring aluminum CB2 nesting tables with the appearance of wood. The home’s existing “cocktail pool” sealed the deal for homeowner Crystal Cobb.
Existing cabinetry in the dining room received new wine racking, increasing its usability for the homeowner. Wallpapering the ceiling in Thibaut’s “Daintree” paper and selecting a sexy photographic print for the fireplace art upped the glam in the space, which features large sliding doors leading directly out to the pool area.
metal mesh fronts, and a beverage fridge installed in the center adds functionality. “This cabinetry just reads like it’s always been there,” says Alicia. And to further customize the space, decorative artist Tim Glastetter hand painted a mural on the plaster walls, adding 18-karat gold to the creamy hue. “It was a challenge finding the right tones,” the team mentions. “Tim made it work. His work is amazing.”
Tim used the same technique and shades in adding a focal wall in Crystal’s bedroom. “She wanted this room to be serene and tone-ontone,” the design team says of the creamy white color palette. Crystal agrees the calming space is one of her favorite rooms in the home. The addition of a new light fixture allows one of her favorite features, the 18-karat gold specks, to shine. “Tim came back a couple of times to get the gold specks of paint just perfect. It’s so coastal in feel, you expect to see this in California.”
Indeed, Crystal says “sometimes I wish I could pick up this house and put it in Santa Barbara. I’ve actually thought about moving back, but I cannot leave this house. I feel very connected to it.”
She says the home’s purchase was the first she’d accomplished by herself. “It was super important for me to make it my own, and ADJ Interiors definitely helped me with that,” says Crystal. “I honestly think the universe sent me this house because it was off market when I was going through a not-so-great time in my life. It’s been an absolute blessing for me.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.
Left: The small, round nook became a classy bar area, thanks to custom curved cabinetry by Marc Christian Fine Cabinetry and the wall mural work of decorative artist Tim Glastetter. “He has little pieces of 18-karat gold painted on the walls,” says interior designer Alicia DeKold. “Tim does amazing work.” Below: In the living room, walls were painted white and the fireplace received a refresh. “Previously it was faced in a black square tile,” says designer Alicia DeKold. “We removed those tiles and had plaster work done on the face, while staining the existing wood mantel black.” The fan-shaped screen reminded the ADJ design team of an aloe plant. “That had a Mediterranean or desert vibe,” she says. The Ethnicraft wood coffee table is engraved in geometric motifs.
Top left: The banquette was already in place in the breakfast area, so the ADJ Interiors team enhanced comfort and functionality by adding cushions to the banquette seat and placing a small round table in the space. “We painted the back of the shelving in black so the accessories would pop,” says Alicia. Pottery and fabrics in shades of blue nod to the Mediterranean vibe carried throughout the home.
Top right: A gold Corbett chandelier brings a touch of glam to the stairwell, while still respecting the arched windows and niched openings of the home’s Spanish Revival architecture.
Powder room: The coastal blues of a Lindsay Cowles wallpaper add formality in a powder room, but the brassy gold mirror and Crystorama light fixture add the touch of glamour the homeowner loves.
Virtual Reality
Guided by 3-D renderings, a St. Louis couple could envision every finished space in their new home long before it was built.
By Jeanne Delathouder
Photography by Megan Lorenz
Interior Design by Ellie Redders Interiors
Builder Whalen Custom Homes
A sweeping floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace takes the spotlight in the living area, accentuating its dramatic vaulted ceilings. Matching mirrors flanking the fireplace amplify the spacious proportions.
hen the sky’s the limit, building a custom home can get overwhelming without the proper guidance and expertise. Decisions become daunting, with endless choices of materials and finishes that might look good on paper but become overpowering or underwhelming in application. But through the marvels of technology, many home buyers can now walk through their new spaces before they’ve even been constructed. Such was the scenario for Jacquelyn and Mike Nolan, a young couple aspiring to build a sprawling ranch home nestled in a quiet cul de sac in south St. Louis County. Before a single brick was laid, they sat down with Ellie Redders to discuss the wants, needs, challenges and dreams for their new home. Owner of Ellie Redders Interiors, the designer and her team offer a state-of-the-art rendering service—the first of its kind in the residential market. Through virtual reality techniques, the homeowners were able to walk through each space of their home with the exact wall treatments, cabinetry and furnishings in place. They could feel what it would be like to live in the space before solidifying their confidence and finalizing key decisions. “I am not a huge fan of color—I prefer neutrals,” says Jacquelyn. “Ellie helped pull together different patterns and materials with unique textures throughout our home to add visual interest. Her 3-D renderings were extraordinary in helping make bold design choices easier to see and execute. They really give you a full picture of the home, including details that are hard to visualize.”
Case in point, the splash of color selected for their dining room wallcovering made more sense when they could see it next to the black, white and natural wood color scheme of the surrounding rooms. The gold-finished plumbing fixtures were brought to life and complemented with antique brass lighting fixtures throughout. “And the bold veining of the island countertop wasn’t such a scary choice once seeing how it related to the overall design of the main living space,” explains Redders. “Throughout the couple’s 6,000-square-foot property, we applied a neutral color scheme with unique textures. Pops of color and pattern bring an element of interest and surprise throughout the space.”
Built for an active family with young children and pets, the home’s overall functionality and durability were top-of-mind during the design process. Performance fabrics and scratch-resistant floors and countertops were implemented throughout. Focusing on her signature style and philosophy of “livable luxury,” Redders and her team believe beauty and functionality can go hand in hand. From her initial consultation with the homeowners, it was apparent they strived for the same idea of a beautiful, unique space that could also stand up to their busy lifestyle. “Homes are meant to be lived in,” she adds. “Drink spills, pet accidents, bumps to walls—all these things happen. As designers, our job is to find the best materials to stand up to ‘real life’ and look beautiful. Hickory wood flooring throughout the main level serves as a rich, natural foundation and a durable surface that resists the scratches of puppy nails and tiny Legos. Washable wall surfaces—
A deep teel wallpaper creates a moody, sophisticated vibe in the dining room, opposite page. Dimmable chandeliers adjust to suit any ambience, and a pair of mirrors create dazzling reflections. A bar area adjacent to the living room offers a convenient drink station for entertaining. Designed for a boy and a girl, separate kids’ bathrooms display timeless color palettes that will grow with them as they age.
The elaborate kitchen revolves around a double island that accommodates ample prep space and plenty of seating for entertaining and family gatherings. An elegant custom range hood echoes the brass and black detailing on the island pendants. A chic built-in banquette enhances a cozy corner for casual dining. The lustrous brass dome chandelier illuminates the satin sheen of a sleek ebony table.
THE DESIGN IS COMFORTABLE YET STYLISH.
vinyl wallcoverings, high-gloss paint finishes and woodwork— also elevate the design aesthetically as well as functionally.”
Open without being too ca vernous, the home’s versatile layout is perfect for a cozy night by the fire or a busy holiday party. Vast sliding doors and large windows allow seamless indoor/outdoor living. “The design is comfortable yet stylish. “It is the true definition of livable luxury that we strive to create at Ellie Redders Interiors,” says the designer. “We also love lighting. It is a kickoff point to our designs and helps create the mood we want to set throughout a space—it’s the jewelry for the outfit.”
In the k itchen, four large black and brass pendants illuminate the double islands, setting the tone for the other public spaces that Redders calls “classic with flare.” A custom range hood accentuates the black and brass details of the island pendants. As with most homes, the kitchen is the heart, where the family does most of their living and where guests tend to congregate. The double island design allows plenty of prep surfaces while reserving space for other activities.
A large floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace anchors the living area, creating a dramatic focal point. Soft, neutral furnishings and richly patinaed case goods create a calming ambience to contrast the kitchen’s active, upbeat vibe. And the dining room is all drama—with double chandeliers shimmering over a large wood table surrounded by leather dining chairs. A moody, deep teal wallpaper sets this room apart, creating a strikingly bold aesthetic for festive dinner parties.
“The different materials used for the wall treatments add visual interest to our mainly black-and-white palette,” notes Jacquelyn. “The use of brick, stone and wood throughout makes the home feel very cozy.”
The primary suite delivers the biggest wow factor when it comes to bold design. While keeping with the black, white and neutral color scheme, Redders and her team played with pattern and texture to create a one-of-a-kind look. Grasscloth-wrapped wall panels generate a unique visual element behind the bed, bringing warmth to an otherwise dark cave of a room. In the primary bathroom, towering custom-mirrored cabinetry, detailed metallic tile and a large double shower emanate a spa-like vibe. “With so many design elements, it would be easy for this space to feel chaotic,” notes Redders, “but the cohesiveness of the color scheme creates both a sense of boldness and tranquility.”
Thr oughout the building process, everyone involved experienced several challenges, including time constraints, material shortages and supply chain issues during the tail-end of the pandemic. “The relationships built on the job site with the homeowners, the contractors and our design team were truly the most enjoyable aspects of this project,” says Redders. “As designers, being on site was key to developing trust among all involved and allowed for thoughtful and cohesive problem-solving. Everyone could perceive the vision and were eager to see it through until the last accessory was set.”
“I enjoy the functionality of our home the most,” Jacquelyn adds. “It really works for our day-to-day lives. We spend a lot of great times hanging around the kitchen islands and enjoying our covered patios by the pool.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.
Bedroom photography courtesy of Ellie Redders
The primary bedroom’s bold design aligns with the home’s dramatic black-and-white palette. The grass-cloth-wrapped wall feature behind the bed brings warmth to an otherwise cavernous space. In the primary bathroom, a spacious double shower and custom mirrored cabinetry backdropped with metallic tile create a luxury-spa atmosphere.
SPIRIT
A Town and Country gardener uses his background in chemistry to transform his back yard into a movie set.
By Lucyann Boston
Photography by Kim Dillon
Rodney Jarboe didn’t start out to create a movie set in his back yard. When he and his wife Regina purchased a nearly two-acre lot in a Town and Country subdivision 25 years ago, they looked at the level terrain and were thinking of a lovely swimming pool and maybe a tennis court.
“We thought we were choosing a lot that had the flattest elevation compared to some of the other lots. We were later shown the intended elevation of the property and found out that a significant portion of the dirt from our property was going to be moved to the other side
of the street to level out those lots. Little did we understand that this would create a 40-50 foot drop from the top of our property to the street elevation,” Rod recalls.
While most homeowners would have rung their hands and perhaps walked away from the purchase, most homeowners aren’t Rod Jarboe. He looked at that challenging elevation drop and began thinking “opportunity.” Creating spectacular environments is something he deals with on an everyday basis. As the president of Replications Unlimited, he had used his background in chemistry to pioneer new technology and patented materials that have allowed fabricators
around the world to replicate realistic rocks, trees and coral plus architectural details. The lightweight materials he developed have found their way into theme parks created by Disney, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, Seaworld, museums, zoos, aquariums, resort hotels, restaurants and movie sets such as "Lord of the Rings".
If it would work for those folks, why wouldn’t his patented artificial rock technology translate into a wonderful water feature in his own backyard, he reasoned. Rod called on John Saul of Saul’s Custom Designs/Design Reflections, the Aquatic Source to provide the water garden expertise. The two laid out a plan, creating two, long, cascading
streams, ponds at three different levels and two 60-foot-wide, 12-foothigh cliff-like waterfalls, all incorporated into a 30-foot drop in the back yard. While natural rock is used for the streams, stepping stones and pathways, the cliff-like waterfall is artificial stone.
“It was one of my biggest projects as far as challenges go; it was a new thing for him (Rod) and a new thing for me,” explains John, discussing the creation of the faux cliff. John envisioned the huge formation as looking as if a melting glacier had left a cliff and pieces of crumpled rock with water continuing to flow out and through the rock. “That way we could bring in real rock along the sides and put vegetation around it, so it looked like it had been there forever.” John continues.
Molded off natural stone, the cliff is actually three massive, factory created sections brought in on flatbed trucks. Because of the light weight of the artificial rock, two concrete retaining walls first needed to be installed to hold the hillside in place. Overall, the initial installation took two years to complete. To keep the waterfall and streams going requires four pumps, two for the waterfall and two for the streams. “It’s been here for 24 years. It’s proved to be long-term technology,” Rod notes, regarding the durability of the artificial rock. “I had a lot of fun doing this. People come in and they say, ‘Where did you get all that stone?’”
The initial installation, however, was only the beginning of Rod’s landscaping experiment. “The back yard became a place to test my other products like stone sliding panels and stone columns,” he
explains. “I built a stone gazebo, a rock grotto for our spa and 10 stone columns as flower planter boxes to test potential products to sell commercially.”
The ideas just kept coming. “With my exposure to working with museums, theme parks and movie sets, I learned a lot of techniques and ideas to fabricate themed environments,” Rod continues. “Since I have been intrigued with ancient civilizations, I designed and fabricated an Egyptian-themed basement home theater many years ago. From there I went on to fabricating themed items for my back yard.”
Three 4-foot Moai statues (like those on Easter Island) went into the landscaping and three 6-foot Moai statues spout water into a lily-filled pond.
When he wanted to add a bocce ball court at the top of the slope in 2021, he decided creating a Mayan-ruin-themed space would “take a plain playing court to the next level. I had visited a number of Mayan locations in Mexico and Belize, so I designed it primarily around Chichen Itza along with some elements based on two other locations.” Rod explains. Having a themed attraction, complete with Mayan glyphs of eagles and jaguars, at the top of the slope, he knew would be a way to get garden visitors to climb the hill and to experience the entire landscape.
Rod is hands- on in executing his designs, using the photographs he took on his trips and transforming them into patterns using CAD software. The designs are then traced on urethane panels, which he sculpts using hand routers and carving tools. “When I am doing this
with all my fancy tools, I keep thinking about the ancient civilizations and how they created such smooth sculptures and beautiful things on those sites using only the tools they had available,” he marvels. “It gives you a real appreciation for what they did.”
It took him two years to design and install the first phase of the Mayan complex at the top of the hill. He has at least four more ideas to expand the space over the next few years.
Rod also is hands on when it comes to landscaping his huge water feature. “I don’t go in for a lot of exotic plants,” he says. “I want things that are really solid and proven to do well. Perennials include natives such as purple and white liatris, yellow and purple coneflowers, Queen Anne’s lace, and blue-purple stokesia. Hostas and daylilies also are favorites. Grasses dot the landscape and provide contrast.
Each year he adds between 400 and 500 annuals, which he plants himself with an assist from his sister Deana and friends. His wife Regi handles the containers on the patio. “We do a lot of entertaining in the fall and by then many of the perennials are finished booming,” he says. “The annuals still provide color.”
His favorite annuals include vinca, which thrives in the heat of summer, petunias and coleus for the texture and the variety of colors. “The coleus starts taking over and adds impact in late summer. I am learning more about plants that fill big areas,” he notes.
While many would look at the massive project as overwhelming, Rod sees it as a refuge from his heavy professional workload. “Planting is a way to get away from thinking about business. My back yard is my weekend warrior workout,” he says, noting that there is great satisfaction in “turning a very sloping back yard into a useful and picturesque environment.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.
THE DIRT
When it comes to gardening around a pool or water feature, it’s important to know what plants to look for to make sure everything goes swimmingly. For example, some plants may become damaged from a saltwater pool or have difficulty being in the full sun. By carefully choosing the plants you place in your landscaping, you can ensure a summer of fun and easy-going greenery.
One of the easiest ways to start is to decide what your goals are for your garden. Are you looking for additional privacy? Wanting to keep out bugs? It’s also important to consider your climate. In Missouri, we have four distinct seasons marked by cold winters and hot summers. In addition to this, the area is prone to large thunderstorms and prolonged periods of drought. This can make it difficult to decide what plants will thrive.
Poolside Botanicals
Plants are the perfect way to make your pool shine! Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when designing your new outdoor oasis.
By Maya Brenningmeyer
Private Property
If you’re looking to add some additional privacy to your pool area, shrubs or ornamental grasses are great options! Hydrangeas are an example of a shrub that will add a pop of color and an additional barrier around the pool.
Convenience is Key
If convenience is what’s important to you, succulents are a great low-stress option. These plants are also perfect for adding a touch of tropical ambience. Succulents such as crassula, yucca, aeonium and sedum are good options because of their ability to survive in full sun and poor soil. Something to keep in mind is to avoid placing succulents with spines or needles too close to the pool or where swimmers enter or exit.
Pinch of Salt
If your pool is a saltwater pool, you might want to consider plants that are able to withstand occasionally being sprayed with saltwater. Salt-tolerant plants include holly, daylilies or blanket flowers. Holly does great in full sun and blanket flowers are an easy addition to diversify gardens.
Bug Out
Wanting to keep bugs away? Plants like citronella, basil or geraniums are known for keeping bad bugs away from your outdoor spaces.
Overall, it’s important to know what your desired outcome is when looking for poolside plants. With some additional adjustments like switching mulch out for rock or avoiding plants with invasive roots, you’ll be ready to create your dream outdoor getaway.
By Hanna Kolaks, Missouri Botanical Garden
The number one thing to keep in mind when selecting plants for your pond or pool area is to be realistic about the care you will provide the plants. Ensure the light requirements for each plant match what your space is and the water needs are similar to what you will actually provide. Plants that are in pots will typically need more water than plants that are planted in the ground, using plastic pots can help retain moisture better than clay pots.
Potted tropical plants for full sun, medium moisture that are salt-tolerant:
• Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus)
• Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)
• European Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis)
• Plumeria (Plumeria spp.)
• Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia spp.)
Full sun, medium-high moisture, salt-tolerant perennial plants (to be planted in the ground)
• Karl Foerster grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora "Karl Foerster")
• Hardy hibiscus (Hibiscus)
• Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum)
• Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)
Whitaker Music Festival
Enjoy free live concerts at the Botanical Garden, Wednesday evenings from May 28th to July 31st.
By Catherine Martin
Photography courtesy of Missouri Botanical Garden
Wednesdays are for music! Whitaker Music Festival concerts will be held outdoors on the lawn of the Cohen Amphitheater this summer at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The festival is funded by the Whitaker Foundation, which supports St. Louis arts and parks to promote common heritage, celebrate diversity and encourage vitality within the community.
The diverse lineups feature primarily local musical artists performing in a broad range of musical genres, including jazz, blues, folk, bluegrass, rhythm and blues and more. The musical artists, selected to emphasize the rich cultural and musical diversity of St. Louis' musical heritage, enjoy broad public exposure that contributes to their future success.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, and the concert series is the only time of the year when picnicking is allowed on Garden grounds! Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic supper, baskets or coolers—no barbeque grills, fireworks, sparklers, pets, glass of any kind or firearms allowed. Security checks will take place at entry.
This year’s lineup can be found at www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
Times: Free entry begins at 5 p.m. on each performance evening. Last entry is at 8:15 p.m. Live music begins at 7 p.m.
Where to enter: All visitors must enter through the Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center.
What else is open? Wednesdays are for music! So some areas of the Garden, including conservatories and the Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden, are closed on Whitaker Music Festival evenings.
History: The Missouri Botanical Garden hosted "Jazz in June" concerts from 1987–1995, charging admission and capping attendance. In 1996, the Whitaker Foundation's generous support in underwriting the concerts allowed us to provide complimentary admission for all. The Whitaker Music Festival has continued ever since.
When I saw the hillside, I knew it lent itself to the creation of a waterfall.
SOOTHING SOUNDS
By Lucyann Boston
by Kim Dillon
More specifically, the bubbling, splashing, gurgling sound of rushing water is the stuff of daily curtain calls. The stage set is green and glowing; filled with daffodils and dogwoods in spring and ferns, sedum and astilbe in summer. Shrubs such as sumac, boxwood, viburnum, hydrangea and creeping juniper provide a constant backdrop and the fall color is spectacular.
When they moved to St. Louis 10 years ago and were looking at homes, Billie Jean recalls Ken staring for several minutes out the windows of their current home to the hillside in back, much to the consternation of an impatient realtor. “He was already figuring out where he would create a waterfall,” she notes.
Given Ken’s background, his fascination with water is not surprising. With a father who was a commercial fisherman, he had first lived in
Massachusetts, then moved to Alaska and finally to Seattle. “In the summer I worked up in Alaska on my Dad’s fishing boats any chance I got,” he says. His career, as a direct mail and e-commerce business specialist, has taken him to more land-locked locations most recently bringing him to St. Louis as president and chief executive officer of Weissman Dancewear.
Water features have been important in every home the Ellingsen’s have owned. “I have to be near the sound of water,” Ken says. “When I saw the hillside, I knew it lent itself to the creation of a waterfall.”
Ken is an exper t at studying landscapes. His watercolors of favorite locales decorate the walls of the Ellingsen’s home. Using an artist’s eye, he could see the natural looking stream that would tie into the wooded hillside incorporating existing dogwoods and native plants as part of the
Water is the star of Ken and Billie Jean Ellingsen’s Wildwood garden.
Photography
garden. “We wanted a wooded setting; we wanted to keep what was green and growing and work around it. We didn’t want our landscaping to look too residential,” he continues.
As luck would have it, a painter who was working at the house learned what Ken had in mind for his back yard and suggested that Aaron Callies of Naturescape Designs would be a good person to contact. When the two met, “it was almost like Aaron could read my mind,” Ken recalls.
Aaron drew his inspiration from the Pickle Springs Natural Area near Farmington, where he likes to hike. He strategically placed stream elevations and rocks to maximize the rush of the water and allow it to splash into a koi and waterlily-filled pond. In addition, he pushed back the hillside with boulders but allowed for planting areas so that pond and adjacent patio would blend fully into the landscape. “I got my ideas from nature itself,” he explains. “I wanted to create a retreat and an inviting outdoor living space without the feeling that the hillside was encroaching on the house or the patio.”
Tak ing advantage of the windows across the back of the house to bring the waterfall and wooded hillside indoors, “Aaron put together a design and we absolutely loved it,” says Ken, whose interest in ponds and streams has led him to become a member of the Gateway Koi and Pond Club. “We have our own woods and our own oasis. Every morning, I sit out there with a cup of coffee.” “Anytime the weather is decent, we have the windows open, and the sound of water fills the house,” adds Billie Jean. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Lap Pool of Luxury
By Melissa Mauzy
Photography by Anne Matheis
The Pool Specialists
The homeowner worked with The Pool Specialists to transform his previously tiny pool into a new lap pool that is a replica of his pool in California. He wanted the longest lap pool he could fit into the restricted space dictated by size requirements from Ladue. Construction required the homeowner to build a concrete wall as well as fill in a lot of land in order to get a flat piece of landscape for the pool. The west wall serves as a water fountain.
The sky blue watercolor is framed in by Valders coping and a crystal blue waterline tile in this pool and hot tub combo. To take advantage of the yard's existing topography there is a raised fire pit patio that allows a 6-foot-wide water feature to be built into a raised wall and spill into the pool. —Drew Bradshaw, designer at The Pool Specialists, Inc.
KEY FEATURES
–Pool/hot tub combo
–6’ wide water feature
–Bluestone paver wall
–Aggregate patio for contrast
–Pool lights that change from blue to green to red
–Hot tub jets powered by two motors
Complete Harmony
By Maya Brenningmeyer Photography by Kim Dillon Auburn Park Landscaping
The main objective of this project was to match the pool to the home’s modern ‘rustic’ look. The design of the pool was integral to the outdoor spaces—specifically the stone patio, a meditation garden and the surrounding natural landscape. Auburn Park Landscaping installed a dry creek for the homeowners to help mitigate water runoff and the pool provides additional ambience to these quiet, meditative areas.
The pool and its waterfall play an important role as part of the meditation garden and vice versa. The natural stone patio becomes a part of the stone wall of the pool and also reflects into the meditation garden. It’s like the Asian “yin and yang” concept of balance and harmony. —Austin Tao, landscape architect from Auburn Park Landscaping.
KEY FEATURES
–The natural stone patio morphs into part of the pool’s stone wall
–The stone waterfall feature –Matching the materials and colors to the surrounding areas
– Maintaining the land’s natural features
By Maya Brenningmeyer / Photography by Kim Dillon / Bauer
Old Meets New
Bauer Falls was given the task of breathing new life into this 30-year-old pool. With the vision of creating a gathering place for family and friends, they began by removing bricks, breaking up concrete, removing stumps and adding new technology into the previous space. The addition of updated hardscapes truly took the pool to a new level. By developing the perfect balance between pool space and sitting areas, guests are now drawn closer to the pool and able to be immersed in the plants and seating areas that have been so meticulously created.
KEY FEATURES
My favorite thing about this project is being part of the history. Getting to work near a mansion that’s over 110 years old is a treasure in itself, in a world where everyone is looking for something new, it’s rewarding to design around a structure that has stood the test of time. Now, with an updated pool, paver patio, waterfalls, stone benches and walkways, this historical structure has walked right into the 21st century. —Caleb Bauer, Bauer Falls.
–The hardscapes (paver patio, concrete walkway and stone bench) –Removal of old brick, concrete and stumps –Additional of new technology –New waterfall
Falls
Monumental Movement
Waterfall illusion feature accentuates next-level home swimming pool.
An exquisite water curtain creating rainwall visual and sound e ffects punctuates a distinct swimming pool created in Des Peres. Homeowner Mark Lucido says when the house was built during 2023, his family desired a different swimming pool setup to match the home, all on one level. “The pool flows continuously from the house. And it has seams between the tiles, so no drain areas are seen from the top,” he explains.
Mark says the pool’s 50-foot length also provides a nice lap lane for exercise. A Baha shelf serves as a shallow tanning step-like ledge, adding to the pool’s functionality.
Matt Cerretti, project manager for Tegethoff Homes, custom builder of the house, says this was their first rainwall installation. “It was a most exciting grand vision and design to be part of and fantastic for stretching our creative architectural chops.”
Nicole Newkirk, co-owner of Oasis Pools, says this curtain forms a solid water surface that cascades like a waterfall into the pool. She states the curtain is part of the pool’s filtration system, providing efficient water recirculation. “A bonus is the stream movement of this next-level feature naturally cools the water during the hottest summer months.”
The pool flows continuously from the house. And it has seams between the tiles, so no drain areas are seen from the top.
—Mark, homeowner
By Julie Brown Patton / Photography by Anne Matheis
Oasis Pools / Tegethoff Homes
KEY FEATURES
–Lights, heater and water feature remotely controlled via app –20’ wide stone wall waterfall
–2 fire caldrons
–3 fountains on the side pool deck
–Lap swimming area
–Tanning shelf
–Bench seating
By
Take a Dimensional Dip
A geometric-shaped pool that reflected the architecture of the home and also integrated well with the overall landscape and fit into a small footprint was the main objective for this pool project. The homeowners worked with The Pool Specialists to create a summer splash spot that would include a section for lap swimming, an area for socializing and a tanning shelf where their small grandchildren could play safely. The unique shape also allowed plenty of room for patio furniture and circulation space on the patio. The surface materials chosen have a stone grotto-like appearance that blends seamlessly with the pool deck, stone wall and home. The homeowners love how calm the entire pool looks.
We included a few water features to help create an elegant sound when the homeowners are entertaining or simply enjoying the evening by the pool. The color selections of the Noche Travertine, stone veneer and grout match the home, and the dark interior finish of the pool is really what sets the pool apart as it blends in seamlessly with the home. —Drew Bradshaw, designer at The Pool Specialists.
Melissa Mauzy / Photography by Anne Matheis / The Pool Specialists
Elevated Ambience
Custom luxury swimming pool upgrades outdoor living in historic Clayton.
By Julie Brown Patton
Elevating the outdoor lifestyle of Kelly and Kevin Peck’s family is a new, in-ground pool constructed for their nearly 100-year-old home in Clayton’s Hillcrest community. "We feel extremely fortunate to have found a home with a level back yard and enough room for a full-size pool,” says Kelly. “We kept the pool design simple to match the historic nature of our house and neighborhood.” She adds the pool has plenty of shallow space for entertaining and games with their two children.
What the Pecks relish most about the pool, Kevin says, is hosting friends and neighbors. “It provides nice ambience even when we're not swimming. We open it early to enjoy it for as many months as possible."
Susan Bower, Bower Leet Design founder and principal architect, says the pool was part of the Pecks’ backyard renovation, replacing a leaking 1990s pool.
Working with the house’s European Eclectic style, Susan says the backyard design was asymmetrically balanced to be as orderly and calm as possible. “Special precautions were taken to protect their large tree during construction.” “This project was across from a school, so great care was taken to secure the job site every night,” says Keith Kozlen, registered architect for pool builder and maintenance service provider Pool Tron, Inc.
The pool is deep enough to dive into, and has discrete ledges built into the deep end to ensure our kids are safe, but doesn’t disrupt the overall design.
—Kelly, homeowner
Photography by Carmen Troesser
Bower Leet Design Pool Tron, Inc.
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TRANSFORMING YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES
can be a challenge. From pools to patios and everything in-between, it’s important to find the right professional for the job. We’re here to help you do the hard work and research! These experts are experienced, communicative and prepared to take on your outdoor projects. Rain or shine, they’re prepared to be with you through every step of the process.
Outdoor Living from Dawn to Dusk
Transform your outdoor living experience with our expert design solutions.
At Dana King, envision your dream space brought to life by our visionary team in our inspiring studio. Explore innovative and exclusive products curated to harmonize with nature’s canvas. From warm and rustic composite wood grain siding and decking to outdoor kitchens with cabinets mirroring indoor casual elegance, we integrate cutting-edge design with durable functionality.
Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where every detail is meticulously crafted, from hidden sound systems to porcelain countertops housing invisible cooktops.
NARI Certified Remodeler, recognized for excellence in design, quality, and customer satisfaction. Join the chorus of over 200 satisfied homeowners who have engaged with us to bring inspiration to interiors and exteriors.
Photography by Karen Palmer
lakesiderenovationanddesign.com 636-978-5000
Unveiling Tranquility
Our company proudly unveils a two-level screened room epitomizing luxury and relaxation. Above, a haven of modernity: composite decking, James Hardie porch ceiling adorned with fans and heaters, and fully furnished elegance. Below, a serene escape with a hot tub, embodying spa-like tranquility. Crafted by our skilled artisans, this masterpiece harmonizes functionality with exquisite design. Experience the epitome of outdoor living, where every detail whispers luxury and comfort. Welcome to a realm where craftsmanship meets indulgence, elevating your retreat to new heights.
Get Oasis Pools
Oasis Pools, nestled in the heart of the St. Louis metro area, epitomizes what luxury outdoor living is all about. With an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, Oasis Pools transforms backyard dreams into breathtaking reality, crafting custom swimming pools that merge seamlessly with their customer’s inspiration.
Drawing inspiration from resort-style luxury and the unique tastes of their clientele, Oasis Pools designs each project with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a harmonious blend of elegance and functionality. Their team of skilled
designers uses state-of-the-art techniques and premium materials to bring visions to life, creating aquatic retreats that captivate the senses and elevate outdoor living to an art form.
Beyond crafting exceptional pools, Oasis Pools offers unparalleled customer service, guiding clients through every step of the design and construction process with professionalism and expertise. With Oasis Pools, every backyard becomes an oasis of tranquility, a testament to the enduring allure of luxury outdoor living in the St. Louis region.
KEEPIN’ IT COOL
MC Modern Concepts Inc. creates a modern, upscale wine cooler in a new build.
Wine coolers offer the perfect solution for wine connoisseurs who are looking to add a unique architectural element to their home. Often built into living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms or basements, these additions offer an energy efficient, aesthetically pleasing way to store wine at the proper temperature.
The concept for this wine cooler began during the home’s initial design process. Steve McHenry, of MC Modern Concepts Inc., worked with the homeowners to create custom wine storage for their rare and extensive collection.
“When I designed and built the home, I had a niche in the foundation that we thought would be a great place for the wine cooler when we finished the basement,” Steve mentions. “The homeowners wanted something with an all-glass front to showcase their collection.”
The cooler itself holds 450 bottles of wine and utilizes four different styles of wine holders. To add additional ambience, a live shelf with LED lights was placed in the center. “We used Porcelanosa air slate for the wall and Porcelanosa
tile flooring,” Steve says. “Cory Lamp and Lamp Wine Cellars built the wine cooler and the racks were purchased from Vintage View.”
The use of lighting, texture and alternating wine racks adds depth to the small space and creates a focal point for the room. Clean lines and neutral tones align with the simple aesthetic the designers were going for and allow the wine bottles to stand out. County Glass and Mirror provided the wine cooler’s glass door fronts and the refrigeration was complete with the help of Omni Refrigeration.
Overall, the project is the perfect example of the benefits a wine cooler can bring to a space. An organized, designated spot for a wine collection with an architectural twist, as well as a cooler with the correct refrigeration to uphold the quality of wine. Wine coolers are a versatile addition that can be customized to any homeowner’s needs and maintain their wine collection for many years to come. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
By Maya Brenningmeyer / Photography by Karen Palmer
Home Builder MC Modern Concepts Inc.
TRITON STONE GROUP
Transform your outdoor living space with Triton Stone Group. Discover a stunning selection of slabs, tiles, and sinks that will elevate your design to new heights. Our experienced professionals are here to guide you every step of the way on your design journey. Visit our St. Louis Showroom and let us help you bring your vision to life. 314-432-7522, tritonstone.com
CLASSIC METAL CRAFT
Think out of the box when enclosing your outdoor patio. This decorative ornamental panel provides an elegant solution to limit access to your pool spa. This design can be duplicated on handrails and gates to provide continuity on all your ironwork needs throughout your property. Please give us a call or email me with any questions you may have. 314-535-2022, classicmetalcraft.com
Outdoor Living
AMINI’S
Amini’s Cold Plunges offer numerous health benefits, including improved circulation, brain cell regeneration, reduced inflammation, enhanced muscle recovery, boosted immune function, increased energy, and improved skin and hair health. Make your wellness top priority with a cold plunge from Amini’s. 636-537-9200, AMINIS.com
FORSHAW
Forshaw is your local expert in designing and building outdoor kitchens. Our grill department at our Frontenac store features the most built-in grill displays in St. Louis, so you can explore all the options and make sure you’re getting exactly what you want. We offer a huge variety of custom finishes, and we build your kitchen to order, so it’s exactly tailored to your space and layout. Our experienced sales and installation teams will ensure everything is done right so you can enjoy your outdoor kitchen for many years to come. 314-993-5570, forshaws.com
slhl
Places to go, things to do and see and people who are leaving their mark on the world of style.
Green Getaway
Take a dive into nature at this environmentally friendly home in Costa Rica.
By Maya Brenningmeyer
Architecture by Salagnac Arquitectos
Architects: Evangelina Quesada, Lucca Spendlingwimmer
Photography by Andres Garcia Lachner
Nosara, Costa Rica
On a hillside in Costa R ica is the Loma Sagrada House, an eco-friendly construction project created to transform a previously livestock-ravaged land. Characterized by its open walls, rectangular shape and reinforced beams, the home looks like it’s completely immersed in the surrounding environment.
The architects approached the project with the goal of improving the land and “supporting Costa Rica’s environmental objectives.” Things like using plantation-grown wood throughout 95% of the home, or using a 35-degree slope to minimize foundation impact, all contribute to mindfully transforming the land. The architects were also strategic about the placement of the home, building it along
the southern hillside to protect it from harsh winds. Systems within the house are beneficial to human health as well by avoiding electromagnetic radiation and using vegetation to moderate the home’s internal temperature. Other built-in systems include natural ventilation, water reuse, utilizing solar energy and safe water purification for drinking water and the home’s large pool.
This chemical-free pool sits at the center of the compound, surrounded by the home on three sides and facing a beautiful view overlooking the hill. Lounge chairs with minimal design are placed along the edge, allowing the surrounding views and plants to shine. In the accompanying rooms, a yoga room and kitchenette offer public spaces with more panoramic views. The furniture throughout the home reflects its modular design with neutral colors and a variety of built-in amenities such as built-in nightstands and chairs. The combination of clean lines and minimal design carries the viewer’s eyes through the windows and into the lush forests below. In the bathroom and kitchenette, natural stone accompanies the wooden walls and allows the builders to minimize the amount of industrial materials used.
The Loma Sagrada House brings the outdoors in and invites homeowners to completely immerse themselves in nature. Serene views, beautiful architecture and a stunning pool invite guests to take the plunge and view the world around them. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
DESIGN & DETAIL
We represent the top vendors and offer the best design resources in the industry. Jensen Outdoor has the highest quality wood furniture. Each collection is tailor made to suit a unique aesthetic and intended use in your life. 314-781-3336, designanddetailstl.com
OASIS POOLS
Oasis Pools is your go-to destination for unrivaled outdoor living spaces, and custom 3D designs that bring your dream pool to life. As a recognized Top 25 Pool Builder two years in a row, and a favorite of local celebrities, we offer personalized designs tailored to your desires. Our dedication to crafting custom pools and spas ensures that each project is a unique work of art. Oasis Pools—where luxury outdoor living becomes a reality. 314-522-3394 (MO,) 618-655-9510 (IL), getoasis.com
SCHMITTEL'S NURSERY
Since 1994, Schmittel’s Nursery has provided a complete solution for all your landscaping needs. Our professional landscape services our second to none, we focus on delivering the highest level of customer service and offer only the absolute finest nursery landscaping products and materials. Our landscaping services include landscape design and landscape installation as well as what is known as hardscape services. Our hardscape services include retaining walls, paved patios, firepits, and water garden construction. 314-469-8900, schmittelsnursery.com
Outdoor Living
BAUER FALLS
In addition to creating luxury waterfalls, Bauer Falls also specializes in paver patios, natural stone retaining walls, bridges, stairways and landscape lighting. All of our work is created at the highest quality; we take pride in everything we do and customer satisfaction is our top priority. 314-974-1360, BauerFalls.com
VIRGINIA TILE
Virginia Tile is the ultimate destination for your outdoor tile needs, offering a vast selection of tile options and comprehensive solutions for every project. Whether you want to create an outdoor kitchen and living space for loved ones or designing a tranquil retreat, we transform outdoor spaces into seamless extensions of your home. Elevate your outdoors with our stylish and resilient offerings. 314-995-9900, virginiatile.com
Weaving Sophistication
Summer is the perfect time to revamp your outdoor spaces. We’ve asked local design experts for their opinion on WICKER FURNITURE—an outdoor patio staple.
Edited by Maya Brenningmeyer
CLASSIC
Wicker furniture is forever classic, and not just because it has been around for centuries. From rattan to caned pieces, wicker furniture adds natural texture to a space. I love finding vintage wicker pieces that have a hand made quality as opposed to newer, more modern and uniform styles.
Meagan Cooperman, C&M Interiors
When designing outdoor kitchens clients frequently ask us to weigh in on the furniture to be used in the space. Wicker is a timeless choice! Today there are styles that will suit almost every client's needs, contemporary, transitional as well as classic pieces. There are also many more choices of wicker as well, from traditional natural materials, to resins made from PVC, Nylon and Polyethylene. Something for everyone!
Janice Bohn, Anne Marie Design Studios
I would have to say that I see wicker furniture as a classic element in design. Wicker pieces have been sitting on porches and in sunrooms for ages! Sometimes a trend brings it inside, paints it, dresses it in floral fabrics or shapes it in a modern way, but wicker style will always be classic.
Teddy Karl, The Great Cover-Up
Wicker outdoor furniture has become a timeless essential for patios and decks, transcending passing trends. Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect balance of functionality and beauty. The breathability of wicker keeps you cool during hot days, while its flexible nature allows for comfortable seating arrangements. With its classic charm, practicality and versatility, wicker remains a must-have for creating a serene and welcoming outdoor retreat.
Savannah Sells, Youtopia Designs
Wicker has been around for thousands of years and dates as far back as early Egypt. It works well in both indoor and outdoor spaces and is a great way to add texture and warmth to a space with a single piece of wicker or with a room full of wicker furniture. It is versatile, comfortable and timeless.
Barbara Collins, Barbara Collins Interior Design
Photography by Megan Lorenz