October 2022

This moment

started here.

The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom will help you bring your creative vision to life. It’s an inviting, collaborative space built to inspire you throughout your kitchen project – from planning with our product experts and your designers to making delicious memories in your home.

locally owned community focused environmentally conscious guaranteed prices

Design Drama

St. Louis designer Julie Reinecke turns a once cramped and outdated home into a visually stunning showpiece that embodies her expressive signature style.

Perfect Harmony

Newlyweds embark on a whole-house remodel, incorporating beloved elements from a previous home.

Small Garden Overflows with Beauty

St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles is honoring four individuals who have had exceptional careers in St. Louis’s design industry.

Vertical elements make the most of garden space. JE Design Group by Anne Matheis. Louis Design Hall of Fame

The experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery are here to help create a home that’s as extraordinary as you are. Any project, any style, any dream—bring your inspiration to Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery. Visit build.com/ferguson to schedule your personalized showroom experience today.

"One can speak poetry just by arranging colors well."

—Vincent Van Gogh

As autumn's first leaves start floating to the ground I'm always a bit sad to see summer coming to an end. But I absolutely love autumn and the cool crisp mornings it brings while enjoying a hot chai tea latte on my back porch.

With overtones of spookiness and mystique in the air, October is an opportune time to examine the many highlights of moody design. While the word moody can describe a temperamental person, moody design describes a design style that's easy to embrace. Using the same monochromatic design rule book, moody design enlists only our favorite dark colors (page 12).

K athleen Grim, interior designer at Srote & Co, shares, "One of my favorite things about dark colors is the depth it creates."

Joni Spear, Joni Spear Interior Design, says, "My favorite rooms to embolden with moody colors are family rooms and dining rooms."

Diane Breckenridge Barrett, Diane Breckenridge Interiors, says, "Using moody color in a room makes a statement and turns an ordinary room into an extraordinary space."

Grab a glass of wine or your favorite beverage and be prepared to immerse yourself in design with this issue. We cover a lot of ground including design inspiration and introducing our 2022 Hall of Fame recipients, true leaders in their industries.

Our upcoming Luxury Home Tour is right around the corner on Saturday, October 8, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Be sure to go to our website stlouishomesmag.com to purchase a ticket. All ticket sales will be donated to The Haven of Grace. I hope to see you there!

Enjoy, Suzie

Suzie Osterloh Publisher/Owner

River and I both feeling the moodiness created in the Strauss Peyton studio

Photography by Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton

2022 Hall of Fame recipients

PUBLISHER/OWNER: Suzie Osterloh

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Melissa Mauzy

MANAGING EDITOR: Molly (Moe) Godat

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Kim Dillon COPY EDITOR: Carol Wayne

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Lucyann Boston, Jeanne Delathouder, Kim Hill, Gina Parsons

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Hedrich Blessing, Ron Blunt, deVOL Kitchens, Peyman Farmani, Emily Johnston Anderson, Laura Johnston, Yiorgos Kardakis, Megan Lorenz, Anne Matheis, Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton, Deryn Macey, Lew Portnoy, Nathan Schroder, Jacob Snavely, Teamwork Design, That One Summer LLC

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Colleen Poelker

DISTRIBUTION MASTER: Barney Osterloh

MARKETING + SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST: Maya Brenningmeyer

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: sosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES: molly@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

©2022 by Distinctive Lifestyles LLC. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpts granted by written request only.

Printed in U.S.A.

PRESIDENT: Suzie Osterloh

VICE PRESIDENT: Barney Osterloh

St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles is a publication of Distinctive Lifestyles LLC

Glidden, Vining Ivy (PPG1148-7):

A lovely choice for an accent wall with surrounding walls and ceiling in lighter muted aqua tones. Pair this paint color with deeper-toned woods or painted trim with off white.

In the MOOD

Embrace the dark side with deep, dark moody hues. Shades of blue, purple, red, green, gray and black create depth and warmth in a space.

By Melissa Mauzy and Molly Godat

PPG, Black Magic (PPG1001-7): Black Magic is a dark, warm, bat black with a true black undertone. It is a perfect paint color for an accent wall, trim or to add drama and elegance to cabinets or brick. Pair it with white for a clean look or with a pop of color to make it stand out.

Why Use Moody Hues?

One of my favorite things about dark colors is the depth it creates. We often don't see definition as well with dark colors (why black is thought to be a more slimming color in fashion for example), so when used well in interior design, it creates depth and intrigue. Yes, dark colors can make a space feel smaller, but when done right, it can also feel expansive like a dark sky. Kathleen Grim, Srote & Co Architects | Planners | Interiors.

Paint is always fun because, after all, it IS just paint and is quite cost-effective and easy to change if the new look doesn’t quite feel right. We love adding bold color or moody, deep tones to accentuate architecture; i.e. on the interior of massive door casings, at the back of a bookcase, even as a ceiling detail to “cozy” a particularly high ceiling. Kris Keller, Design Source LTD.

If you love striking colors, why not embrace it? I love it when a client decides to make bold choices in their design. Matchy matchy is so out and color is the new thing! If going all in on moody and dark scares you, try it out in small spaces like a powder room, butlers pantry or even laundry room.

Julie Reinecke, Julie Reinecke Designs.

This deep, rich oxblood red is a sophisticated and dramatic hue that can add a tremendous amount of warmth to kitchens, living rooms, offices— really any space that craves high impact color. Part of the 2023 trend palette, LORE, this hue really stands out as one to watch in 2023-2024 as homeowners look to add color to home interiors.

Where to put it?

My favorite rooms to embolden with moody colors are family rooms and dining rooms. Think about dining in your favorite candlelit restaurant; it’s relaxing and allows you to deeply savor your meal and time with family and friends. Reimagine and interpret that feeling in select areas of your home. Joni Spear, Joni Spear Interior Design.

Using moody color in a room makes a statement and turns an ordinary room into an extraordinary space. I have always used deeper colors in powder rooms for a dramatic effect and in libraries for an intimate cozy feeling. I use colors that are in the color palette or complement the colors in the palette the client has chosen for their home. Diane Breckenridge Barrett, Diane Breckenridge Interiors.

Master bedrooms, powder rooms and dining rooms are my favorite spaces to work with when using moody hues—they evoke a sense of drama, passion, elegance and sophistication. Don't forget to make it you! While black may be an obvious color choice, blue, purple, red, green and gray can add the same depth of richness and drama. Want to give a moody color project a try? Start small with a powder room. Try a damask-flocked wallpaper in a plum, gray, charcoal, or cobalt blue!

M. Joyce Mathis, MJM Design Company.

Sherwin-Williams, Carnelian (SW7580):

Sherwin-Williams,Urbane Bronze (SW7048): This is a rich, deep bronze with earthy undertones. Rooted in nature, the color conveys a sense of comfort, calm and stability, and it is ideal for creating a sanctuary space no matter the room.

Accessory Shopping

Adding light contrasts pops of color like creamy or white tones in pillows, upholstery art and drapery really add to a bold personality while keeping a space feeling light. We opt in for lighter hardwood flooring finishes now too as well as area rugs. Kris Keller, Design Source LTD.

Sherwin-Williams, Naval (SW6244):

This is a rich navy that creates a calm and grounding space. This hue strikes the perfect balance between bold color and the calming and awe-inspiring power of nature—from the infinite night sky to the deep sea. It feels luxurious and relaxing at the same time.

One approach to achieving moody depth is to use the same shade or tone of color throughout but with varied finishes; for example, use a flat finish on the walls and a satin finish on the trim. An additional tip I love to share with my clients is that dark colors recede, so painting your walls a darker color allows any shiny metallic accessories—lamps, vases, ceiling fixtures—to draw your attention. M. Joyce Mathis, MJM Design Company.

While it’s certainly not prudent to overwhelm a space in saturated colors, you can counterbalance the space by adding contrasting colors or bringing in other textures like natural wood and stone. Adding a glow of warm lighting with sconces and lamps can keep the room from feeling foreboding. Joni Spear, Joni Spear Interior Design.

Behr, Dark Everglade (HDC-CL-21A):

An inspirational blackened green that makes a dramatic statement.

St. Louis DESIGN Hall of Fame

St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles is honoring four individuals who have had exceptional careers in St. Louis’s design industry. This special group of design professionals represents all facets of the industry and each has made significant contributions to design with bodies of work of the very highest quality. Meet our 2022 class of St. Louis Design Hall of Fame™ honorees.

Edited by Moe Godat Portrait photography by Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton

First-Place Finishes

Made through Change

I was a professional singer for 20 years. I loved singing, but I was ready for a change. I experimented with one wall doing a faux finish treatment and the next thing I knew I had people asking me to do the same for them. I eventually poured myself into cabinet finishing and have been in business for over 23 years, and we’ve now evolved into a full kitchen remodeling company. The Porch (where my showroom and studio are located) is a lifestyle boutique that features custom sofas, chairs, lighting, accessories and everything beautiful. The one comment we hear most often is “I want to live here.” I couldn’t be more fulfilled!

Double Duty

Running two businesses plays to my strengths, but it also has to do with the teams behind each business. They are the most amazing, creative, smart, talented, passionate and caring group I could have the privilege of working with every day. I love my job, and it’s all because of who I work with and the customers we serve.

Color Me Inspired

Color inspires me! I could design a whole room based on one color. I’m especially interested in combining colors and making custom finishes. After 23 years of being in business, I’m still excited to create beautiful custom finishes.

Every Detail Matters

Fine finishes are like clothing and jewelry; they can make your furnishings look elegant and refined or inexpensive and ordinary. My team and I labor over the details in every project, making sure that no aspect is overlooked.

Nettie White, owner of Nettie White Interiors and The Porch in Wildwood.

Photography by That One Summer LLC

Blueprint for Excellence

Earned Reputation

Upon finishing college, I took a position as a draftsman with an architectural and engineering design/build firm. The firm handled residential and commercial projects, with a main focus on the commercial end. I wanted to focus more on residential architecture and construction, so I went to work for a St. Louis home builder that designed and did the construction drawings for the homes they built. Within 6 years, I was ready to open my own architectural firm, DL Design. After servicing hundreds of builders and thousands of clients over the years, DL Design has kept a very strong clientele following that keeps growing as time marches on. Our attention to design and detailed construction drawings has earned us a warranted reputation in the industry.

Personally Designed

As part of an initial client design meeting, I like to find out the client’s needs and to some extent their personalities. From there, we talk about the home’s layout, styles of architecture, lot considerations and budgets for construction costs.

Handcrafted and Custom

Although most of today’s work is completed on computers, I still prefer to present design concepts with hand-drawn sketches and renderings. I seem to think more freely than when not tied to a keyboard.

Changing with the Times

I am probably more personable with clients compared to 20 years ago. I always try to make the architectural projects an enjoyable experience for my clients. Nothing makes my day more than when a client thanks me for working with them and how happy they are with the outcome. That’s what it’s all about!

Darryl Labruyere, president and designer at DL Design

Photography provided by DL Design

Growing Strong

Cultivating a Dream

Growing up on a farm, I always loved working outside. I went to Southeast Missouri State University and majored in horticulture with an emphasis on landscape design. My summer jobs were always working outside or subcontracting. When I graduated, I knew I wanted to work for myself. At first, I did a lot of work for members of my church and got a lot of jobs through word of mouth. I also made a lot of mistakes during this time, and I had to decide what was important and to make a commitment. Even though this was a really hard time, I learned so much in the struggles.

A Deep Exhale

When I first started planning our nursery, the overarching goal was to create a place where people could come out, walk around and en joy the beauty of the unique plants. I wanted to create a place to relax and exhale from life’s challenges. Our goal in designing someone’s landscape is the same. Create a space that our

clients are drawn to, a space that has a unique beauty that represents them; a space that brings a smile.

Rooted in Perseverance

We started out as a very small work force. I was doing design and installation and my sister, Deb, took care of the books, and we had our first “nursery” in my parents’ garden; slowly we grew a little each year and even started a small tree farm. But in July of 1993 the flood hit us. We lost a lot and basically had to start over. I returned back to our makeshift office at my sister’s home. She came out with a note that the pastor of Bonhomme Presbyterian Church wanted to talk. I called him and he said his congregation wanted to help; it was an answer to my prayer. Today, we have evolved into an organization with around 55 employees, 12 acres of beautiful nursery stock and a desire to create amazing landscapes for our wonderful customers.

What makes your team special?

With our team, words like character, integrity, dedication and humility immediately come to mind. My dad taught me a lot of things, one of those was the value of hard work. Our team works hard for our clients, and they’re all sincerely just good people. I am blessed to have such a talented group of individuals to care for our customers.

Jim Graeler, owner of Chesterfield Valley Nursery

Photography by Andria Graeler

Landscaping/Hardscaping by Chesterfield Valley Nursery

Pool by Pool Specialists

Decorator: Design Expressions

Difference in the Details

Building a Dream

During my high school and college years, I was continually learning carpentry, drywall, plumbing and electrical skills on small projects. Having a strong background in mechanical drawing, I worked for several years in consulting engineering as a civil and plumbing designer. My father-in-law was a custom builder who gave me the opportunity to use and develop my building skills on a variety of challenging projects. Eventually, I gained the experience and confidence to start my own business.

Custom Learning Experience

If you want to stay in business, you don’t make the same mistake twice. Custom building is a constant process of re-inventing the wheel with new clients, unique designs on challenging sites, endless selections and continually learning and refining the process. Developing procedures to organize

selections, decisions and work schedules will help you sleep better. You eventually have to figure out what works and what doesn’t in order to efficiently make use of time and talent. You also have to learn to be flexible to deal with situations that will arise that are beyond your control.

Becoming a Craftsman

I normally invest a lot of time planning the work sequence and trying to anticipate where the potential issues are before the job starts. I also learned early on to find and keep suppliers and subcontractors who are reputable, reliable and who share my commitment to superior quality. I can be found nearly every day at the jobsite working in my field office or doing physical work. An organized and properly managed jobsite is essential to ensure good morale, staying on schedule and achieving outstanding workmanship from our building team.

Sharing the Passion

I have always enjoyed sharing my construction experience, ideas, opinions and enthusiasm with our clients as we work through each phase of the build. What keeps me wanting to drive to the jobsite every morning has evolved with age. During the early years, it was the satisfaction of framing the structure from the ground up and then being involved with the finished work. As I grew older and the work increased in size and complexity, my focus and passion changed. It is very rewarding to be able to work out difficult details and to orchestrate the total building process from plans to completion.

Dean Teiber, owner of Teiber Construction Company

Interior photography by Lew Portnoy / Exterior photography provided by Teiber Construction

Lauren

Dick

Donna

Christopher

Beauty & Grace

An artist creates from her heart and spirit

By Gina Parsons Photography by Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton

R ock Hill artist Jennifer Olwig infuses expressions of beauty and reflections of the divine into each piece of artwork she creates. “My work is my calling, my devotion and my joy,” she says. “Sharing it with others in an intimate way is a part of the full circle journey of creating the work. I love being in my creative process—from the inspiration and process of painting and communing with the artwork to connecting with the soul whose journey it will become a part of.”

A lot of Jennifer’s work is created on commission. She has created pieces for an Oscar-nominated film producer and a network television producer among others. For each commissioned piece, she talks to the client to find out what’s going on in their life and what they hope for.

“People reach out for something specific to them,” she says. “Not only for their home and their space but also where they’re at in their heart and life. To support the next chapter. Whatever comes through me will go into the painting. A lot of times, I’ll write it down for them as well, so they’ll get this note along with the artwork.”

Jennifer’s first career was in the fashion industry, but after working in the field she knew that it wasn’t right for her. After having surgery on her wrist, she woke up and had an incredibly strong urge to paint again. She visited the butterfly house, painted butterflies she saw there and felt a healing spirit.

She dove into her art by first creating and selling notecards to shop owners. She put 20 paintings for sale on her website. They all sold within the first week. Watercolor butterflies became her signature subject.

After she was asked to paint a rose on commission, she began a series of large-scale rose paintings in acrylic. Next, she drew ethereal angel sketches on linen. Her popular "Prayer Candles" on her website features an angel sketch and is a thoughtful, got-gift for many.

Jennifer enjoys using living media— materials she says have a story, an essence energy that is alive and felt. “In my watercolors, I’ve been drawn to using crystal pigments and water from sacred sites around the world,” she says. “The healing properties of the pigments and water together radiate a stabilizing love within the spaces in which they live. My ‘Body of Roses’ series is made using rosewater from my garden and French antique homespun linen from the late 1800s and early 1900s.”

To learn more about Jennifer’s artwork, and items for purchase, visit her website at jenniferolwig. com. A selection of notecards and prayer candles also are available at Mary Tuttle’s Floral and Gifts and at The Porch in Wildwood. See stlouishomesmag.com for more photos and resources.

Completely rebuilt from top to bottom, St. Louis designer Julie Reinecke’s Edwardsville home emanates glamorous luxury via her stunning signature style. Throughout the house, Julie has composed a well-curated look with a unique layering of pattern, texture and color.

St. Louis designer Julie Reinecke turns a once cramped and outdated home into a visually stunning showpiece that embodies her expressive signature style. Drama

By Jeanne Delathouder

Photography by Anne Matheis

Architect Mike Killeen

Builder Lantz Homes

Interior Design Julie Reinecke Designs

hen designer Julie Reinecke and her husband, Pete, found their dream home, it had been on the market for well over a year. But, where most prospective buyers saw problems, Julie saw potential. An interior designer for more than 20 years, she discovered at an early age her inherent flair for completely changing the look of a room. Today, she is widely recognized for a distinctive signature style that blends the old with the new, the refined with the eclectic and unexpected materials with objects that are deeply meaningful to her clients. So, when she and her husband, a hobbyist craftsman who designs and builds custom furniture, first stumbled across their Edwardsville home, the challenges that awaited them were irresistible.

“O ftentimes, things don’t go as planned, but sometimes that end result turns out even better,” says Julie. “When we came across this established golf course

community, we fell in love with the great location and the surrounding homes. The property was perfect, with mature trees and a small backyard creek, but the home itself needed a complete overhaul.”

I nstead of a remodel, the couple rebuilt the home from the inside out. Their renovation included ripping out four fireplaces and eight bathrooms, relocating all the HVAC/ plumbing, and even lowering some floors. Because some areas of the home were not being utilized, they were able to create more than 1,200 square feet without actually adding to the house. By taking down several load-bearing walls, which required 17 pieces of structural steel, they constructed an open floor plan to fit their personal taste. “We intentionally saved each brick from the old fireplaces and used them in our new rebuilding process,” Julie explains.

“My father is a retired mason, so he and a few of his friends used the bricks and some

Opposite page: Julie and her husband, Pete, who is a skilled craftsman, designed an extravagant second-floor wine loft in space over the garage. Outfitted with reclaimed bricks from the home’s old fireplaces, the wine loft houses more than 2,000 bottles of wine. This page: The couple implemented rigging timbers from the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis to replace the home’s outdated Grecian columns. The rustic patina creates a satisfying contrast against the sleek contemporary finishes used throughout.

Opposite page: The stylish living room area demonstrates Julie’s knack for combining the rustic with the refined, the natural with the man-made, and the old with the new. Modern chrome chairs with zebra-patterned upholstery counterbalance rustic wood flooring, and a plush area rug, dramatic floor-to-ceiling draperies and sumptuous textiles soften the space.

This page: The dining room radiates glamor with a magnificent quartz crystal vase atop a glass table accented with velvet-upholstered dining chairs with nailhead trim. A floor-length mirror exemplifies the glimmering silver chandelier and a dramatic fireplace wall.

antique bricks from the 1800s in the new wine loft, home gym and lower-level sitting room. The final product is a beautiful labor of love.”

Previously, when you entered this home, you saw small, cramped rooms and several Grecian columns. In place of the columns, Julie added two vintage rigging timbers from the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis that now serve as an architectural statement piece. “They were also used in the construction of Queeny Tower in Barnes Hospital,” she notes, “and the rustic patina of the weathered wood and rusted metal plates generates a beautiful juxtaposition to the contemporary finishes in our home.”

O ther dramatic transformations include an empty storage room over the garage that Julie and Pete turned into a dynamic second-story wine loft. They incorporated antique brick from the 1800s, Italian floor tile in a concrete finish with random graffiti planks, custom lighting and music systems, and a walk-in refrigeration area to keep the vino at a perfect temperature.

“ When designing this space, I thought, ‘if this turns out half as cool as how we think it will, we’d like to view it from the front door,’” laughs Julie. “So, we tore a big hole in the wall, and now it’s visible from the moment you enter our home.”

Emitting a sophisticated mid-century modern aesthetic, the tasting area includes iconic black leather Barcelona chairs and a leather loveseat, where the couple and their friends can sip and relax. To the back of the wine loft, a stunning Champagne area boldly accented with an eye-catching signed advertising poster awaits enthusiasts who prefer the bubbly. “We entertain a lot and use most of our house,” says Julie. “Evenings are often spent on the deck overlooking the kinetic wind sculptures and the wooded view. When the weather isn’t as accommodating, we spend time enjoying the wine loft and the theater.”

Designed for two, the master bath includes a steam shower with an Italian mosaic wall and a crocodile granite floating bench. Stunning sculptural pieces and a brilliant, beaded chandelier define the dramatic entry foyer. Soaring ceilings and windows create an airy, light-filled ambiance. Secluded and sensuous, Julie’s boudoir-style dressing room exudes glamor with luxurious tufted seating, leopard-patterned wool carpeting and custom cabinetry.

The couple’s bedroom is a modern retreat that emanates a rich, sensual vibe. Here, Julie aspired to create a tangible wow factor with a sumptuous layering of textures and fabrics. She implemented black high-gloss leather flooring planks in a crocodile pattern and paired it with a sexy, textured vermiculite wallpaper. The entry doors were repurposed from mid-1800s pocket doors sourced from a salvage yard and stained a rustic black—yet still revealing their suspected bullet holes. Julie paired them with vintage English chrome and glass door handles made from repurposed oversized towel bars from New York’s renowned Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Oversized Italian tiles cleverly frame the dramatic inset for the couple’s gas fireplace.

I n the main suite bathroom, Julie completely gutted the space to make room for a luxurious walk-in steam shower with a crocodile granite floating bench and Italian mosaic wall art that is illuminated with exterior-rated art lights. A floor-to-ceiling glass entry wall accentuates the minimalist contemporary feel.

Julie transformed the adjacent empty sitting room into a functional, boudoir-style dressing room that houses her collection of vintage Chanel jewelry and fashion books. She lowered the floors and installed befitting leopard-patterned carpet and custom cabinetry with smoked glass panels that provide closed storage. The designer accessorized her stylish space with a pair of chandeliers she found on clearance in Chicago and other glamorous décor purchased from estate sales and flea markets.

A wood shop was also an essential addition to the Reinecke home, as Pete designs custom furniture and décor for Julie’s clients. His vast inventory of rare materials includes antique bricks and marble, stone and exotic woods from around the world. The couple often shops at scrap yards for unique remnants of steel to use in their custom designs. “Our pieces are one-of-a-kind, and I’m so fortunate to have him as such an integral part of my business,” says Julie.

When designing residential and commercial spaces for her clients, Julie loves to apply her signature technique of integrating rare pieces at various price points that make a meaningful statement. With her own home, her creative instincts came just as naturally to incorporate that same philosophy. Her knack for composing a beautiful visual balance by mixing the unexpected—rustic, reclaimed materials, lustrous leather flooring, con temporary Italian art and a quirky 15-foot strangle vine from Indonesia—speaks volumes for her pure originality and exceptional sense of style. “I love to add drama and use well-curated items that are truly unique,” notes the designer. “That’s how you make a memorable home.”

See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.

Julie continued her glamorous design scheme to the kitchen, with unexpected mirrored cabinetry that amplifies the lustrous finishes. Sleek built-in appliances, silver accents and a pair of crystalline pendant lights add to the sophisticated elegance of the space.

Opposite page: To add even more architectural interest to the primary bedroom, half-round trim work was installed on the long wall behind the bed and painted Sherwin-Williams Anchors Away. Grass cloth wallpaper was installed horizontally to avoid seams. “This creates the dimension and detail in this room, along with changes in texture and depth,” says designer Ellen Wortham. The tray ceiling’s inset is wallpapered in a tone-on-tone wood grain paper with metallic accents. Above: The homeowner’s extensive guitar collection is housed in the lower level in a soundproofed, fireproofed, climate-controlled and secured space. The slatted display wall, built by Tim Glastetter for the Eureka home, was removed piece by piece and reinstalled in the Chesterfield villa. “It’s set up with just enough slatted wall that I can redo displays all the time,” says the homeowner. “That was important to me.”

Perfect Harmony

By Kim Hill Photography Anne Matheis Designer JE Design Group

Newlyweds embark on a whole-house remodel, incorporating beloved elements from a previous home.

Half of the dynamic duo who own this Chesterfield villa had previously owned a Eureka home so well-appointed, it graced the pages of this magazine in 2009. Working with interior designer Ellen Wortham of JE Design Group, the businessman and guitarist had created a home with character and personality, one that combined his appreciation for vintage furnishings and décor with his long standing passion for music and guitars in perfect harmony. The gentleman and lifelong bachelor was very happy in Eureka, until a high school classmate glided back into his life. He proposed, and they married a few years ago.

The Eureka home was still lovely, but with his marriage, the husband’s lifestyle changed, noting four adult stepchildren are now an important part of his life. “As we started sketching out what our future would look like, we wanted the space and environment where we could host weekly family dinners, movie nights, and other get-togethers in a convenient centralized location where we could set down family roots together,” says the husband.

I n addition, the couple felt a properly designed space would allow them to age gracefully at home. And as the husband notes, “there is a certain enjoyment in setting up a home with somebody. The Eureka house was beautiful, but it was pre-existing to my previous life.”

As in all relationships, there is a certain give and take. He likes warm, dark colors, “almost like the room is giving you a hug,” says Wortham, principal and co-owner of JE Design Group. The wife likes light, bright spaces. He comes from a background in home building and carries inspiration from seeing hundreds of homes over the years. She had a career in the hospitality industry, traveling and overseeing luxury hotels around the world. The couple recognized the great bones in a 6,000-square-foot villa with high ceilings, great flow throughout the spaces and a main-level primary bedroom. Wortham, the homeowners, designer Jenny Siebert at Callier & Thompson Kitchen Bath Appliance and decorative artist Tim Glastetter set forth to extensively remodel the villa to create a thoughtfully designed,

Above: In this extensive, whole-house remodel, architectural interest was created where it was previously lacking. Callier & Thompson installed detailed wood panel molding in several areas of the villa, including this vestibule located off the great room.

Opposite page: The formal dining room reflects designer Ellen Wortham’s talent in fusing the homeowners’ styles (he likes dark and warm, she likes light and bright). New white, wingback chairs pair with dark side chairs, a table and a sideboard from the homeowners’ collection. Decorative artist Tim Glastetter made the top of the dining table to match the dark chairs and applied a milky white finish to the base. New wood panels painted white contrast with Sherwin-Williams Enduring Bronze painted on the top portion of the walls.

Above: Much of the furniture came from the homeowners’ collection of vintage and antique furnishings. The hutch, dining table and chairs belonged to the husband’s mother, although the table was refinished by decorative artist Tim Glastetter and the chairs reupholstered for the couple’s new home. Below: The kitchen’s existing creamy cabinetry and countertop in good condition were retained; designer Ellen Wortham says the room received “a gentle facelift.” Previous brushed nickel hardware was replaced with the same design in a soft gold finish which Wortham describes as “almost the color of champagne.” The subway tile backsplash was replaced with Danby marble tile featuring metallic inlays. The swinging door leading to the dining room features leaded glass and was crafted by Cosby Art Glass Company.

boldly classic home while incorporating some of the beloved elements of the Eureka house.

“ We created architecture where there was none” in the Eureka home, says Wortham, referring to details such as millwork and paneling. The same philosophy was applied to the Chesterfield villa, with floor-to-ceiling paneling added to the two-story foyer, hall and large great room. Crown molding and trim work were also added to the great room, where Wortham selected a moody, dark green hue (Sherwin-Williams Ripe Olive) for the walls. “Within the house, I had to find ways to reflect both their tastes,” says Wortham. In the great room, for example, she lightened the look of the dark walls with creamy tones for the upholstery and draperies. “There are all these layers, so it doesn’t look gloomy,” she explains. “It just looks rich.”

The most stunning transformation is to the great room’s fireplace. “The old mantel was very heavy and old-fashioned looking, made of red oak with corbels,” Wortham recalls. “Callier & Thompson removed it so we could replace the marble on the hearth and the fireplace surround. The mantel was reinstalled, and then Tim Glastetter worked his magic.” Wortham asked Glastetter to mimic the look of an aged building common to downtown St. Louis. After sanding, de-glossing and priming the wood, Glastetter applied a textured material to the fireplace. “From there, I used a little stone-ground pigment which gives it the look of limestone,” says Glastetter. Homeowners and design professionals say the great room feels like a high-end hotel lobby. “It’s a destination in the home, yet it’s easy to imagine the owners sitting there visiting with family or friends,” says Wortham.

The primary bedroom already had some architectural interest in the tray ceiling,

Creamy tones for the sofa, rug and draperies lighten the moody, dark green hue on the walls of the great room.

“There are all these layers, so it doesn’t look gloomy,” says designer Ellen Wortham. “It just looks rich.”

Above, powder room: The swanshaped faucet, a gift from the wife to the husband, and the vintage mirror which belonged to the husband’s mother drove the design in the spectacular, Art Deco-inspired powder room. Designer Ellen Wortham wanted to downplay the room’s angled walls. Working with designer Jenny Siebert, they widened the custom vanity to encompass the entire wall. Dark wood panels provide a dramatic backdrop for the mirror; Tim Glastetter trimmed the mirror’s finial to fit the space. “That is the difference between a decorator and designer,” says the husband. “Ellen and Tim are designers. He put his head to the problem and the mirror looks like it’s always been that way.”

Opposite page: The primary bathroom was completely redesigned as part of the extensive remodel. The dark cabinetry of the breakfast bar area, visible through the opening, features refrigeration drawers, a sink and a patterned marble floor which differentiates the space, according to Callier & Thompson designer Jenny Siebert. In the bathroom, large-format porcelain tiles mimic marble flooring, while the chandelier adds even more opulence.

but Wortham upped the drama by wallpapering the ceiling inset in a tone-on-tone wood grain paper with metallic accents. On the long wall behind the bed, Callier & Thompson installed trim in long, horizontal lines and painted it in the navy hue of Sherwin-Williams Anchors Aweigh. The grass cloth wallpaper on that wall is “railroaded”—applied horizontally rather than in the typical vertical installation. “There are absolutely no seams in each strip of paper between the millwork,” Wortham says. “That creates the dimension and detail in this room, along with changes in texture and depth.” Between the bedroom and bathroom is an ice-cold water sink, fridge and coffee bar.

T he adjacent primary bathroom received a massive overhaul. “It just wasn’t arranged well,” Wortham recalls of the original layout.

Tremendous forethought and planning went into the space, which mimics a luxurious hotel suite through opulent finishes such as the liberal use of accent tiles, chandeliers, ceiling medallions and marble flooring. “Jenny Siebert (of Callier & Thompson) had a huge hand in this space,” says Wortham. “She did all the details after we gave her the basic layout.” Siebert says she enjoyed incorporating a walk-in tub within a space that’s both functional and luxurious. The tub is installed in its own niche and surrounded by porcelain tile with the appearance of marble. The large steam shower features a zero entry and a built-in seat. Heated floors take the chill off cold mornings, and a built-in sitting area across from the vanity lets a homeowner put on shoes more easily. “The aging-in-place elements are so highly

disguised and well-done you don’t even notice them,” says Wortham.

The home boldly sings in perfect harmony, blending both light and dark hues, vintage furnishings and modern lighting, patterns, textures and timeless architectural elements. And it symbolizes a harmonious life. “As I’ve seasoned in life, I’ve realized there is more than one way to be successful,” says the husband.

“I have a very happy wife, a very happy family, and I’m really happy here because our home and its environment are great and the people in the home are priceless to me.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.

Small Garden

Overflows with Beauty

Vertical elements make the most of garden space.

By Lucyann Boston / Photography by Kim Dillon

It is a garden that reflects a partnership

and the beauty and harmony of working together. Although small in square footage, the landscape surrounding the Winchester home of Phil Mueller and Nathan Urben overflows with flowering plants and beautiful trees and shrubs.

To enhance the less than .15-acre space, the two have taken the garden vertical with a collection of vine-covered trellises, obelisks and arbors that bring the brilliant, saucer-like blossoms of clematis, the drooping clusters of soft purple wisteria and the tiny trumpets of red orange “Major Wheeler” honeysuckle higher than the heads of garden visitors. The trunk of a black locust tree, recently removed from the back yard, remains. The deeply furrowed bark now provides architectural interest, and the trunk serves as a trellis for the purple, sweet pea-like flowers and brilliant violet pods of hyacinth bean vines. A dwarf, purple-leaved “Ruby Falls” redbud cascades down the side of a privacy fence.

On the flip side the small garden lives large as a showcase for 80 trees, many of which, rather than being tall and vertical, remain close to the ground. One corner displays a collection of normally giant shade trees such as sycamore, white oak, American beech, American hornbeam and Japanese katsura that have been both top and root pruned to become miniature versions of their natural size.

The transformation of the space began 21 years ago when Phil purchased the property, then the repository of several “junk trees” and weeds that littered what passed for a lawn. There was, in Phil’s words, “nothing desirable” in the yard. Little by little, he began creating gardens and establishing a lawn. Then, 10 years ago, Nathan moved in and “the garden went on steroids,” Phil says laughing.

There was a reason for that. Holding a Bachelor's degree of science in horticulture from the University of WisconsinMadison and a Wisconsin native, Nathan moved to St. Louis in 2011 for a position as a horticulturist at the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Nathan’s area of responsibility at the Garden centered on the southeast corner of the site, encompassing the three acres surrounding the residence of the Garden’s president, the administration building and what became known as “The Stumpery.” One of the Garden’s most recent spots to stroll, “The Stumpery” is a shade-filled landscape in which logs, root wads and driftwood from dead trees, mostly recovered from the Garden’s Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray Summit, are used as natural works of art often by being turned upside down and sideways among the lush foliage.

Around the administration building, Nathan created a landscape based on the Know Maintenance Perennial Garden concept. Espoused by noted horticulturist and landscape designer Roy Diblik, such landscapes employ native plants that thrive together and grow happily and beautifully into a natural-looking vegetation-filled space, cutting down on the need for mulch and excessive watering. "It's basically a 'right plant, right place' scenario, just taken a step further," Nathan says. "It allows you to design specific plant communities, which grouped together create a garden."

After nearly 10 years at the garden, Nathan has moved on to a position as horticulturist with U City in Bloom, where he is overseeing the same concept in the city’s public spaces. He also has his own landscaping business Urben Designs.

As you might suspect, in the garden he shares with Phil, Nathan has some of the same goals. “The one thing I am adamant about is that I don’t like seeing bare ground,” Nathan says. “I don’t like mulch, per se. I like using plants to keep the weeds down.”

Where garden responsibilities are concerned, Nathan describes himself as the “curator of plants,” making most of the suggestions as to what goes into the garden and its design. In the carpentry and remodeling business, Phil has built the obelisks and arbors that enhance the landscape and in the front yard created a gravel-filled dry stream bed to harness water runoff from the street. Working mostly inside during the day, he is happy to come home, head outdoors and take on some garden maintenance chores.

The two do an evening walkabout to “see if any areas need improving and make changes and edits if a plant is not working.” Nathan says. Phil also divides garden plants and starts things from seed to sell through Facebook with profits going back into garden upkeep.

When it comes to plants, Nathan has a passion for clematis, with over 30 different varieties climbing over garden structures and even through taller plants.

Not only does he find what he calls the br ight, “gaudy” flowers appealing, he loves the way the vines creep over garden structures. “I associate that with the idea of an English walled garden where

flowers ramble over everything,” he says. “You can’t have that here in Missouri, but I like having climbing vines that go upward leaving a smaller footprint in the garden space and still have that floral effect.”

He also has a collection of 50 dainty, shade-loving epimediums, whose common name “bishop’s hat” or “fairy wings” perfectly describes the leaf shape and look of the plant. “It’s a small plant that doesn’t take up much space,” he notes, “but the foliage stays nice all season and the dainty, little spidery flowers in a myriad of colors can really make a show in the spring around April.”

Nathan and P hil’s passion for plants is gradually encroaching on what lawn they have left. “Some people believe that ‘less is more,’ and I believe that too,” Nathan jokes. “But I also believe that more is more. I am always looking for new things, going through seed catalogs. If it says hummingbirds or butterflies, I am always going to try it.”

The proliferation of pollinator plants in their garden has been an eye-opener for Phil. “I never knew there were so many different kinds of bees,” he says, “and I love watching the hummingbirds and bees chase one another.”

The emphasis on including plants for pollinators and being stewards of the earth is becoming the new norm for younger gardeners, Nathan notes. The trend is being seen in the increasing use of native plants in suburban and even urban landscapes. “The natives can survive drought and still look good.”

But incorporating natives into the landscape does not mean giving up on more traditional garden plants such as azaleas and boxwoods, Nathan adds. “The question is how do you balance the use of native and more traditional plants.” It is a concept Nathan and Phil continually incorporate into their garden.

Many of Nathan’s thoughts on gardening are readily available in a series of YouTube videos he recorded in his own garden during the early days of Covid, when the Missouri Botanical Garden furloughed its employees. “I was going crazy,” Nathan recalls, noting that recording the videos was a way to keep busy and impart knowledge. They are full of gardening insights and information and are easy to find simply by Googling Nathan Urben and garden. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.

“The question is how do you balance the use of native and more traditional plants.”

—Nathan

Art leads the way

Keeping special pieces while letting go of the past

By Gina Parsons Photography by Karen Palmer Interior Design by JCR Design Group Remodeler Triumph Construction

When the homeowners moved from a 3,400-square-foot home in Houston to the 1,260-square-foot condo in St. Louis they wanted to remodel the space before moving in. After interviewing a few designers, they chose to work with Jenny Rapp of JCR Design Group because she was willing to let them be part of the design process every step of the way. “They had a wonderful art collection. That was from the beginning what we wanted to build around,” Jenny says.

In addition to being phenomenal pieces of art, the homeowners know the artists, which makes them even more special. “Those pieces were so important to us. Those drove the color scheme,” the homeowner says. “We wanted to make things in warm tones and we wanted it to work with our artwork. That was a big driver.” In their previous home, they had a lot of antiques, but they wanted to go in a different direction for the condo. “In the Chase, we felt

an art deco vibe would be better,” the homeowner says. “We got rid of all the antiques in different ways. We only moved things we absolutely loved.”

To help the homeowners, Jenny had floor plans made of the condo so they could suggest what furniture would fit and what wouldn’t. They also had pictures and measurements of much of their furniture from their previous space. They downsized to about a third the belongings. Most of the furniture is new.

They placed a 4-foot by 6-foot painting of a symphony scene, “Hallelujah Chorus” by prominent Ghanian artist Larry Otoo, in a place of honor on the living room wall.

For the Christopher Guy chairs in front of the painting, the homeowner loved a particular fabric but felt it didn’t look quite right. Jenny suggested they simply turn the fabric the other way, which changed its entire look and made the fabric on the chairs

the perfect complement to the painting and the room. “She is a master at fabric choices,” the homeowner says.

The homeowner wanted a compass rose design on the entry way floor and reasoned it should be only 24 inches in diameter because the space wasn’t very large. Jenny suggested making the design feature larger—they ended up making the compass rose four feet in diameter; the medallion mimics the Currey & Company light fixture hanging above. As a result, the homeowner loves it. “What Jenny said was right on. It makes that statement when you walk in,” she says. “Jenny was wonderful to work with. We loved the fact that she incorporated us in all of it, and valued and listened to us.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.

Balancing BOLD

Black and white is the quintessential color pairing that packs a powerful punch. For a young St. Louis family, the contrasting colors set the design direction for their new kitchen addition. The previous kitchen in their classic Colonial home was a small, confined space. The new addition, which would include the kitchen, a breakfast area and sitting room, would be much larger and open to a family room, and it was important to the homeowners that the new spaces would feel like a continuation of their existing home.

By Melissa Mauzy Photography by Megan Lorenz Kitchen Design by Alspaugh Kitchen & Bath Interior Design by Lauren Sweet-Schuler

The homeowners came to their first meeting with kitchen designer Chris Paul of Alspaugh Kitchen & Bath and interior designer Lauren Sweet-Schuler armed with a design twist: they wanted black cabinets and a black La Cornue range in the new kitchen. What could be a daunting undertaking for some, Paul and Sweet-Schuler accepted the bold color palette with ease. “The new addition had expansive windows that allowed in ample natural light to balance the dark cabinetry,” Paul explains, noting that proper lighting and clean lines can help support the decision to use black and white. Paul made sure to include under-cabinet lighting and recessed can lights to illuminate the space during evening hours.

To maintain the balance of black and white, the designers sourced a white marble-inspired quartz for the countertops, full-height backsplash and waterfall edge on either side of the island. White-painted crown molding from the existing part of the home continues into the addition. To avoid a break in the crown above the black cabinets, the designers finished the

A classic color combination leads the way in this kitchen addition.

wall cabinetry independently with black crown, creating a double crown molding above the cabinetry. The white crown continues throughout the room while the black crown defines the cabinetry.

The designers incorporated neutral mid-tones to soften and warm the stark contrast of black and white. At the island, four counter stools are handcrafted from sustainably harvested Brazilian hardwood with faux leather seats for soft lines and easy maintenance for the young family. A custom banquette is built into the space to meet the family’s seating needs and is covered in a light neutral faux leather. The oak table is finished in black to complement the kitchen cabinets and is surrounded by three chairs in a similar style and finish as the island seating.

The brass details on the La Cornue range are thoughtfully repeated throughout the kitchen for a distinct look. The custom black hood is wrapped with two bands of brass, and Paul also designed the custom pantry to have brass capped feet for a furniture feel. Sweet-Schuler selected a Newport Brass faucet and Hinkley pendant lights over the island to continue the brass across the room. The breakfast area is finished off with an oversized black-and-brass pendant.

Bold and black, the kitchen is still balanced and bright for the young family, who love the functionality of the finished space and appreciate the designers’ imaginative approach to classic black and white. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.

DESIGNERS IN DEMAND it modern or traditional interior Spear has been practicing for more than a of combined with a and compelling sense of and that are yet never trendy. versatile firm specializes in new construction, renovations, executive relocation kitchen and bathroom remodels, vacation and E-commerce and are now available. Joni is happy to once again be living and working full-time in St. Louis after completing a multiple-year project on the East

Three French Hens IN DEMAND

Rae Sutton 636-458-8033 / threefrenchhenswildwood.com

Rae Sutton, granddaughter of the late Jeanie Hood, is continuing the legacy at Three French Hens in Wildwood, MO. The showroom includes everything from staple to statement pieces that complement any style. Customers can shop in-store or work with designers to create a completely unique look for their home. Employing an original team of designers, clients can utilize Three French Hens for projects from total renovations to custom furniture to an accessory overhaul.

Alspaugh Kitchen

Christine Paul, B.A. Interior Design 314-993-6644

For twenty years Chris has worked as a designer for Alspaugh Kitchen & Bath with the goal of creating highly functional, beautiful spaces based upon her clients' personal needs. She brings her educational background in interior design to the kitchen and bath industry, providing a valuable and comprehensive perspective. Chris' passion for design drives her to explore current trends, keeping abreast of the latest innovations to educate and inspire her. Chris builds relationships with her clients, providing excellent customer service from the initial design process through installation.

Anne Marie Design Studio

She obtained her BFA in Interior Design from Maryville University in St. Louis, MO.  She has previously taught the NKBA Bath Design Certification Course at St. Louis Community College.  Specializing in Kitchen and Bath Design, Anne’s positive and down to earth approach helps clients feel anything is achievable, and her unique attention to detail distinguishes her work amongst the rest. • 636-821-3395

Anne M. Boedges, President and Designer of Anne Marie Design Studio, LLC has been helping clients fall in love with their homes all over the St. Louis area since 2001.

Our specialty is to create the environment within your home that you‘ve always dreamed of. We are passionate about creating character, depth, timeless elements and authenticity for your home. Nettie White Interiors and The Porch in Wildwood guarantee that your home will be cozy and comfortable with a flair that is all your own. Our vibe is full of design inspiration, offering the most beautiful accessories, furniture and unique decorating options to complement your spaces.

JE Design Group, LLC

Ellen Wortham, ASID 314-984-0003 jedesigngroupstl.com

At JE Design Group we believe your space should be a reflection of you. We focus on your unique needs to create a space that perfectly melds style and life. We pride ourselves on creating beautiful, timeless spaces with attention to personal style, function and comfort while providing excellent customer service and lasting client relationships. Our extensive knowledge of the build and remodel process as well as our relationships with industry trade partners gives us the tools to provide our clients with expert design advice to successfully navigate any build or design project.

DESIGNERS IN DEMAND

DESIGNERS IN DEMAND

MJM Design Company

M. Joyce Mathis, Allied ASID, LEED Green Associate 636-288-1001 • mjmdesignco.com

From a one-hour consultation to whole house design (window treatments, flooring, paint color selection, space planning, green and sustainable, aging in place, upholstery), remodeling, kitchen and bath renovation, home office, room additions, and new construction. 25+ years in the design industry, where exceptional design and customer service go hand in hand. Finding You in every detail!

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!

GOING MONOCHROME

Zeroing in on a single color for your space makes a bold statement. Monochromatic rooms focus on one color using texture and tonal variations to add interest. Check out these successfully saturated spaces.

By Melissa Mauzy

Photography by Nathan Schroder.

By Coats Homes and SHM Architects. This is a living room library and library space. The green walls and medium-tone wood make for a cozy and relaxed space, the fireplace adds additional warmth to the room. Traditional coffered ceilings mesh with whimsical modern art to create a curated and eclectic space.

By Michael Abrams. Monochromatic rooms stand the test of time. This bedroom was designed for Dream Home 2011 at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart and looks as fresh today as it did over a decade ago. Neutrals work much better when creating a monochromatic environment while vibrant colors will look dated sooner.

Photography by Hedrich Blessing Photography.

By Grace Home Furnishings. This monochromatic room features Sherwin-Willams Plum Dandy paint color as a backdrop. The furniture is an updated take on mid-century pieces, reimagined by Grace Home Collection. The mirrored Woodward Cabinet was inspired by a record cabinet seen in photos of Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward. The Clark Sofas feature a gentle curve and tufted back, reminiscent of a 1950s piece, but scaled up to provide a modern day level of comfort.

By Toledo Geller. In this home, the designer chose to play up the color blue by varying the tones of the color throughout— from floor to ceiling, in subtle to bold strokes. The showstopper here is painting the trim in the entire room a bold color and letting the walls be quiet. It really goes to show you how one strong design move can take a room to the next level.

By deVOL Kitchens. If luxe and bohemian can be used together, then it is the perfect description for this classic kitchen. A crazy mix of beautiful bespoke cupboards, Arabescato marble, collections of stunning art and pottery, this kitchen is already making a stir. The paint on the cupboards is a cross between emerald and racing green and creates a fabulously dramatic and atmospheric kitchen.

By Mary Douglas Drysdale. This tiny building in elegant Georgetown was originally built as servants quarters for one of the very large and grand homes nearby. The clients had just sent their last child off to college and were looking toward retirement and hankered for a tiny house, close to their law firm, so that would make an easy walk to work as well as, to all the great restaurants in Georgetown. Every room did double duty, but tall ceilings made it all work just fine.

Photography by Jacob Snavely.

Photography by Teamwork Design.

Photography by Ron Blunt.

Photography by deVOL Kitchens.

12503 Springdale Lane, Des Peres, MO 63131

40/64 to Ballas Rd. Head south on N. Ballas Rd, then west onto Springdale Lane.

12 Robindale Drive, St. Louis, MO 63124

40/64 to Lindbergh, north on Lindbergh, east on Ladue Rd, left onto Graybridge Rd, right onto Robindale Dr.

224 N. Bemiston Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105

East on Ladue Rd, left onto N. Bemiston Ave.

9590 Litzsinger Road, Ladue, MO 63124

West on Clayton Rd, south on S. McKnight Rd, right onto Litzsinger Rd.

5900 Highfield Road, St. Louis, MO 63109

40/64 to south on McCausland, left onto Arsenal St, right on Jamieson Ave, left onto Westway Rd, right on Highfield Rd. Highfield Road

The Haven of Grace Mission: Serving women who are pregnant and homeless, we provide a safe, nurturing home, educational programs and long-term support for mother and child. Founded in faith, we instill hope, dignity and the pride of independence, one family at a time. Map data ©2022 Google

At over 10,000 square feet, this spacious craftsman style home was built for a growing, multi-generational family. It boasts 3 full kitchens, 7 bedrooms, 5 and a half bathrooms and multiple living spaces. Custom-designed features and high-end appliances can be found throughout. The back yard oasis showcases a pool designed for all ages, a relaxing hot tub and fire pit area and the beautiful surrounding landscape.

In perfect harmony with its surroundings, this modern farmhouse is both a private retreat and a statement for smart, sustainable living. A main residence, guest cottage and art studio nestle into the nearly one-acre lot, surrounded by native plants, a creek and a canopy of trees from the 8-acre nature preserve behind. Energy star certified, the home’s design elements were selected for their high performance, energy efficiency and sleek aesthetic. This is truly a one-of-a-kind home! inspirational tablescape with the prize. Tablescape

Stephanie

This newly built and beautifully detailed home reflects the owners’ love and admiration for the craftsmanship and character found in older homes. The house design incorporates antique restored lighting, Arts and Crafts cabinet panels, leaded glass windows and Vitrolite tile into new construction. The best of both worlds, this house combines the convenience and efficiency of new construction with the classic elegance of historic St. Louis architecture.

An inspirational tablescape with the centerpiece donated as the door prize. Tablescape door prize sponsor.

Welcome to the former home of renowned architect, William Bernoudy, a St. Louis native who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright. This modern home channels the mid-century style and vision of Bernoudy with today’s materials and modern features. Oriental touches are sprinkled throughout the decor both inside and outside in the beautifully updated Zen Garden. The guest house, custom furniture and the homeowner’s collection of commissioned art make this home an interesting place to gather with friends and loved ones! inspirational tablescape with the

A mid-century modern home in St. Louis Hills provided a perfect palette for the new homeowners’ vision to turn the outdoor lanai into an interior space, flowing into the main gathering area of the house while maintaining the home’s unique beauty. By removing exterior load bearing walls, preserving original terrazzo floors, creating a double-sided fireplace—the focal point of the newly combined spaces—the result provided functional, yet beautiful new spaces in this very special home. inspirational tablescape with the centerpiece donated prize. Tablescape

High-Energy Interiors

Create the perfect eclectic space by selecting a wide variety of purposeful pieces; mix and match the best elements of different styles to make your perfectly pieced-together look.

By Moe Godat Design: Deborah French Designs

One common misconception about eclectic design is the thought that “anything goes.”

For eclectic interior design to be effective, it’s important to carefully select each piece to create a space that tells a culturally rich and interesting story without being overwhelming. Push your comfort zone by choosing each piece with purpose and stop before the space becomes too busy or distracting.

The Perfect Blend

As in many interior design styles, it’s most common to start an eclectic design with a neutral color and build from there. Starting with a neutral wall color allows you to curate your accent colors according to your personal style and travels, being sure to create even more interest with intentional textures.

Photography by Emily Johnston Anderson

Photogrpahy by Yiorgos

Kardakis

Pattern-Perfect

Don’t be afraid of mixing patterns! Using several fun patterns and designs that complement each other can help create aesthetic intrigue. However, limit the patterns to throw pillows, rugs, blankets and other accessories that can be easily moved or removed. This gives a room a light-hearted atmosphere without becoming overwhelming. Tip: When using different patterns, it’s important to keep your color scheme in mind. Avoid introducing a color that clashes with your accents.

Give me a Gallery

If you’ve been thinking about adding a gallery wall to your home, eclectic design encourages it! Gallery walls can not only showcase important family moments and travel experiences, but they also give you a chance to show off your unique personality and character. Consider combining quirky art pieces with family photos and professional prints.

Devil’s Advocate

Contrast, contrast, contrast! Creating eye-catching contrast is paramount in eclectic design, but don’t limit yourself to colors and patterns. Mixing textures can often be the most effective way to pull in a level of contrast without being overwhelming. Use smooth, clean lines with marble, leather, wood and steel with fluffy throws, coarse stone and woven rugs.

Artisanal Show

An eclectic design isn’t built in a day. Taking time to pick out your favorite furniture finds and meaningful artistic pieces will make your eclectic style unique to you and your family’s story. By selecting functional furniture pieces with a story or style that you enjoy, you can then go and choose statement pieces to make your space pop! Find a vase or sculpture that speaks to you and give it a special place in your room to showcase it.

Less is More

While eclectic design does allow for a vibrant mixture of styles and pieces, selection is always the most important. Instead of filling your space with small ornaments or packed shelves, choosing a few key pieces that you love can better show off your personality and keep guests interested without overwhelming them!

Photography by Emily Johnston Anderson

Photogrpahy by Yiorgos Kardakis

CLASSIC CRAZE

Exciting or

From jewel tones to muted neutrals, monochromatic rooms—or rooms containing different shades of the same color—have been making a huge impact on St. Louis design. Is the monochromatic trend here to stay, or will it fade away?

Edited by Moe Godat

CLASSIC MONOTONOUS?

Monochromatic rooms can be a classic if put together properly. Staying with a warm neutral base and layering with textures, artwork, a mix of materials and accent pieces can turn a dull lifeless looking room into an inspiring, livable space. I think the all white and gray look is going by the wayside, as people want their homes to be more comfortable and inviting, instead of stark and sterile looking. So if color is not for you, you can keep the monochromatic look by staying with the warm cozy neutrals and add the touches of color that inspire you and your family. Georgine O’Donnell, O’DESIGNS.

This design scheme will impart sophistication and quiet complexity to a room, garden or home exterior. Picking a single color, varying the tones and adding different textures and sheens will create the interest in place of multiple colors. This will always be a staple in the world of design. Janice Bohn, Anne Marie Design Studio.

I feel that monochromatic rooms are classic. Clients enjoy peaceful rooms that are not jarring, that bring calm and welcome relaxation. Using many shades of a single color can often accomplish this. I'm very happy to see that the trend right now is to use this style with color rather than shades of white and neutrals. Teddy Karl, The Great Cover-Up.

I think color will always be around, whether it’s the main furniture piece, wall paint color or a throw pillow. Clients that went to monochromatic rooms years ago are now adding lots of color again. And clients that had a lot of color are going more monochromatic, but still adding color with accessories and pillows. Pamela Calvert, Pamela Calvert Designs.

A monochromatic room can be chic and interesting when it’s done right. The depth of the hue will depend on the vibe of the room (i.e., moody, happy, energetic, serene, ethereal, etc.). To keep the space interesting and the eye moving around the room, it is important to use different shades of the hue and layer in loads of texture. Monochromatic rooms have been a favorite for many years and will continue to be a classic design element; select the color and go for it! Barbara Collins, Barbara Collins Interior Design.

NEITHER

A monochromatic color scheme, regardless of room, is neither classic nor craze. It is personal. Just as color preferences go, starting from a young age, so are the energy levels in a room. A calm space typically calls for a single hue first and foremost. Choose THE hue then layer it with its own highlights and lowlights, tints and shades to create contrasts of interest. Need a little more punch? Mix in textures and patterns in the same monochromatic scheme. With the proper color formula, the monochromatic room will never grow old. Good design never does. Geri Hayes, Ideas Only: Color Light Design.

By Toledo Geller. Photography by Jacob Snavely.