Su Casa Southwestern Homes Spring 2023 Edition

inspiration ideas resources

luxurious lavs traditional to modern

vista visionary capturing High Desert views

Santa Fe industrial a backdrop for artful living

“MorningStar

WANDER MIRROR

Our Wander Mirror collection has simple, clean lines and a modern feel. The ribbed e ect of the wool felt strips turned on edge creates a deep texture that frames the contours of the mirror glass inserts. Available in five shapes and more than 90 felt colors. Get in touch to discuss the perfect mirror for your space!

Submaterial creates thoughtful and precisely handcrafted design pieces for modern interiors. We focus on natural and sustainable materials, which our skilled fabricators fashion by hand using environmentally conscious and lean manufacturing processes.

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Southwest Homes

inspiration ideas resources

SOUTHWEST HOMES

38 Vista Visionary

Thoughtful design led to this High Desert home sitting askew from the street to best capture the impeccable views.

64 Desert Industrial

When an artist relocated from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, to Santa Fe, he built a home that’s a beautiful backdrop for a creative lifestyle.

SPECIAL SECTIONS 50 SPRING Parade of Homes

Bring this copy of Su Casa with you as you tour the beautiful and innovative new homes on the Albuquerque Spring Parade of Homes, April 28–30th, and May 5–7. Details about each home and builder are included, plus maps and directions.

74 Beautiful Baths

Luxurious lavs to inspire your own personal spaces, no matter your design aesthetic.

Amadeus Leitner

On the cover: Paul Kenderdine, founder and owner of PWKI LLC, spends a lot of time studying a lot before designing a home, For this High Desert home, that meant it follows the natural landscape instead of the street to maximize the views. Photograph by Amadeus Leitner.

64

IN EVERY ISSUE

28 Inside Su Casa

30 Life+Style Southwest

Lovely lilacs not only bring cheerful color to your yard, they provide fragrant arrangements for the tabletop. Welcome spring into your home with magenta-colored design and decor items.

36,82 Design Studio

Make your home office Zoom-friendly, comfortable and reflective of you. Get wacky with wallpaper—how to use it for maximum effect plus today’s new peel-and-stick options.

86 Su Cocina

Farm & Table in Albuquerque’s North Valley pays homage to the generations before by growing many ingredients for its menu on the 12-acre property.

90

¡Salud!

Grüner Veltliner is a crisp white—perfect for patio weather—that pairs with charcuterie as well as grilled meats and veggies.

93 Vida Buena

Even if you don’t know Mark White’s name, you’ve probably seen his kinetic sculptures gracing front yards throughout New Mexico and beyond. Longing for a spring getaway? Head to Texas Hill Country for charming small towns, delicious peaches and a wealth of wineries.

98 Su Libro

We review two books—both will inspire you to get outside, grow something and create a lovely lounging area.

102 Just Winging Through

Say’s phoebe, with its nondescript little brown body and sleek, dark head, is a warning sign that bugs are on the way. But as a member of the flycatcher family he will gobble them up for you!

Daniel Nadelbach

Copyright

Publisher William P. Lang

Publication Director Cheryl Mitchell

Editor Heather Shoning

Creative Director

B.Y. Cooper

Contributors

Paula M. Bodah

Jessa Cast

Amy Gross

Kate Jonuska

Carol Orona

James Selby

Faerl Marie Torres

Lisa Truesdale

Photography

Amadeus Leitner

Daniel Nadelbach

Mark William

Advertising Manager

Cheryl Mitchell

Advertising Sales Executive

Michele Rainwater

Number

Home Builders Association of Central New Mexico Board of Directors

President: Carey Plant

First Vice President: Ashley Lawrence

Second Vice President: JP Rael

Immediate Past President: Jenice Eades

Associate Vice President: Danielle Fleming

Secretary/Treasurer: Rita Powers

Associate-at-Large: Bill Stanage

Builders Council Chair: Troy Crutchfield

Production Builders Council Chair: Kevin Vautier

Sales & Marketing Council Chair: Jolene Montoya

Membership Committee Chair: Bill Stanage

Education Committee Chair: Adam Walker

Builder-at-Large: Richard Medina

Parade Chair: Danielle Fleming

Advisory Members: David Newell, Ron Sisneros, Mackenzie Bishop, Wade Messenger, Diana Lucero, Jason Balthrop

Honorary Member: Dr. Susan Bogus Halter

Home Builders Association of Central New Mexico Staff

Executive Vice President: Lana Smiddle

Events & Education Director: Jill Krogman

Communication & Membership Specialist: Joseph Moreno

We hand-craft custom doors, gates and kitchen cabinetry using reclaimed wood and architectural antiques from around the world — creating timeless beauty and design for your home.

Photo: Wendy McEahern

Peggy and Tim Wheeler 505.362.7519 peggy@peggywheelerteam.com

Dee Rasberry, QB 505.269.1505 dee@deerealtor.com

Carmenza Duque 505.507.9496 carmenzasellsabq@gmail.com

Tim and Karen Brown 505.550.1447 karenbrown.abq@gmail.com

Helen Demott 505.610.8355 homesbyhappyhelen@comcast.net

Linda E. Malott 505.507.2459 linda@lindamalott.com

Linda Coy, CRS 505.259.7477 Lindacoy.AlamedaR1@gmail.com

Charlotte Trone 505.350.0099 charlotte@thehouseangel.com

Teri Hatcher 505.385.1606 teri@terihatcherrealtor.com

Maria M. Constantine 505.903.0667 maria.newmexicohomes@gmail.com

Candice Banks 505.350.3188 Candice@BanksRealtyNM.com

Tanya Otero-Villalobos 505.366.4612 toterovillalobos@gmail.com

Denise Vigil 505.803.5510 denise.vigil10@gmail.com

Stephanie Walter 505.385.4283 stephwalter@msn.com

Cecilie Bodman 505.250.1356 abqgold@ymail.com

Welcome to the Spring Issue of Su Casa

Spring has sprung, and when the weather starts to turn, we at Su Casa, of course, think about refreshing our homes and gardens. It’s wonderful after a long winter to throw open the windows for some fresh air and head outside to tend to the yard.

In this issue, we share some easy ways to spruce up your spaces from adding a bold print wallpaper to creating a home office you’ll love. Our annual Beautiful Baths feature shows some ravishing private retreats in a variety of styles including a traditional Territorial, a stunning Santa Fe style, a warm contemporary and more. Some also include aging-in-place inspiration and green design elements.

At this time of year, we’re always looking forward to the Spring Parade of Homes. Su Casa guides you through our charming neighborhoods and showcases the latest building and design trends from our accomplished local home builders. This parade’s Signature Builder Sun Mountain Construction, Inc. has been building green homes since day one. And owner Norm Schreifels oversees each job personally to ensure every aspect meets his standards for high-quality and environmentally friendly materials.

We invite you inside a cool contemporary home in High Desert built by PWKI LLC. Founder and owner Paul Kenderdine designed the home to follow the land instead of the street to ensure it would capture the best views. In addition, it features a few “moment” spaces that make the design unique and personal.

You’ll also experience an industrial-style Santa Fe home designed to highlight artful living. True North Builders LLC created a minimalist backdrop that’s alluring in its own right, using one of the homeowner’s favorite materials: concrete.

Turning to outdoors, we embrace lilacs in this issue. These versatile shrubs not only add beauty to our yards, but fragrant centerpieces to our tables. And we review two books that will have you dreaming about redesigning your gardens and outdoor gathering areas. Ready to hit the road? Texas Hill Country offers charming towns and stunning vistas—perfect for a late spring vacation.

We hope you enjoy this issue—and our gorgeous New Mexico spring—as much as we do!

William P. Lang Publisher

Right: True North Builders LLC used industrial-style pouredconcrete walls inside and outside this Santa Fe home. Inside they delineate spaces, while outside they create artistic framing. Read more on page 64.

Daniel Nadelbach

Ready to and start building your dream home?

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Cathy Neuharth

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cneuharth@bell.bank

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TeamAlvarez@bell.bank

lendwithalvarez.com

bellbankmortgage.com

easygoing entrance

A ’70s-era townhome deserves a presence as exquisite as its Santa Fe surroundings. So, when La Puerta Originals, Inc. transformed the front entrance, the home took on a truly unique character. Creative director Scott Coleman designed this reclaimed Douglas fir garden gate using a modest approach not to compete with the intricate front door design. “Even in its simplicity it’s still really beautiful,” Melissa Coleman, president, says. Through the gate is a meditation garden, so it needed to look beautiful on both sides, while providing occlusion and quiet. “He designed the gate with a header above it to make the space more closed in and quiet,” Melissa Coleman says. “It’s such a beautiful, quiet, tranquil space, you don’t realize it’s so close to downtown.”

La Puerta Originals, Inc., lapuertaoriginals.com

photograph by Wendy McEahern

in full bloom

lilacs are a New Mexico gardener’s best friend

SPRING IN NEW MEXICO brings warmer days and a greener landscape from the Bosque to the peak of the Sangre de Cristos. As the days lengthen and the soil thaws, landscape plans are put into action, and while the high desert is known for many things, easy horticulture isn’t one of them. It’s important to understand which plants thrive here and the best way to care for them so you can cultivate the verdant retreat you’ve spent the dreary winter envisioning. One low-maintenance, high-reward option for the Southwestern garden is lilacs. In addition to their high desert hardiness, there are 21 varieties in seven different colors ranging from white to deep purple, all of which share the highly prized floral perfume. “The scent is their claim to fame,” says Tyler Leslie, co-owner of Rehm’s Nursery, who also appreciates their dependability and benefit to pollinators who are attracted to the full, heady blooms.

In New Mexico, the common lilac, Syringa vulgaris, thrives and

by Faerl Marie Torres

comes in all seven color varieties to best suit your garden’s color palette. Nichole Busse, garden center manager at Lantern Ridge Farm Market + Nursery in Sandia Park, says, “All lilacs do well in New Mexico. They’re drought tolerant and super tough.” However, she warns that they do best with a good dormant period that cold weather brings. Depending on the weather and altitude, lilacs bloom three to four weeks in the spring, bringing some of the first flush of color to your garden.

Whether you have several acres or a small patio, there’s a lilac variety to suit your space. Common lilacs propagate efficiently and can be pruned for height or density to cover as much full-sun space as you have available. The ‘Charles Joly’ blooms a deep, wine red, while the ‘Mme. Lemoine’ produces double white flowers. If you have a smaller space to fill, Busse recommends the Korean Dwarf for landscapes below 10,000 feet. The compact size is perfect for a planter or pot. Leslie recommends Persian lilacs, which form a dense, five-to-six-foot shrub. Consider complementary and companion plants for your lilacs, including drought tolerant varieties of peony, clematis, day lily and sedum.

According to Santa Fe Extension Master Gardeners, lilacs in New Mexico can grow five- to 15-feet tall depending on the variety and are long-lived with proper care and at least six hours of full sunlight. They can be planted in full sun, but Leslie suggests a little shade to help them thrive and planting in fall or early spring. “It’s great to give them time to acclimate before the intense heat of summer.” However, lilacs can be planted year-round if they receive adequate water the first year. “Even in winter they need water once a month,” Busse says. She recommends planting in a spot that’s sheltered from the wind. “Deadhead once the blooms are spent to encourage more flowering and fertilize with compost or a 10-10-10 allpurpose fertilizer and mulch everything,” she says. “It helps protect the roots and conserves water.” Busse encourages gardeners to remember “drought tolerant” doesn’t mean “never needs water.” The first year is particularly crucial for care, ensuring new additions to the garden can cultivate deep roots for years of growth and enjoyment.

Lantern Ridge Farm Market + Nursery

Rehm’s Nursery

magnificent magenta

thanks to Meta, this haute hue is making its way into homes everywhere

Inspired by the Meta logo and brandished by Pantone, magenta is making a bold statement in home decor, fashion and more. While it might seem risky, this daring hue can be just the punch your interior needs.

1. Faux Fresh

The lush petals and long stems of this dendrobium orchid make a dramatic statement on the mantel or tabletop. The hand-painted and curled petals and leaves are amazingly realistic, and the exotic blooms are nestled amid bright green leaves that cascade around a glass vase. Each vase includes approximately 50 blooms. Faux Dendrobium in Cylinder Vase, Pottery Barn, $329

2. Global Glassware

These stunning pink glasses add a Moroccan flair to any tabletop. The hand-painted gold pattern is as intricate and detailed as beautiful henna skin designs. Mix and match them with each other (they are available in a variety of colors), or use them as a contrasting element to your dinnerware. Handwash only. Lidiya 8 oz. Drinking Glass (Set of 6), Wayfair, $42

3. Stand Up for Color

Even KitchenAid is embracing the color trend with its stand mixer in a vibrant beetroot hue. This timeless kitchen appliance boasts a stainless-steel bowl with a handle that holds up to nine dozen cookies, seven pounds of mashed potatoes or four loaves of bread. It features 10-speed control plus a premium accessory pack with a flex-edge beater, wire whip, pastry beater, dough hook and easy-install pouring shield that makes adding ingredients easy and messfree. KitchenAid Artisan Series Beetroot 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, Crate & Barrel, $499

4. Pleasing and Plush

This cover comes in various sizes to fit almost any square or rectangular pillow. The color is stylish, and the gold hexagonal design is on-trend. You can choose the design on both sides or with a solid-color velvet back. Luxury Velvet Cushion Cover, MayEvelyneInteriors, etsy.com, $45

5. Wow Factor

Create a show-stopping design in any room with bright pink and fuchsia glass

tiles. Several shades of matte and glossy chips, filled with shiny magenta foil, add a lively, vibrant atmosphere to any bathroom, kitchen backsplash, wet bar—any indoor space where you want to make a statement. It’s slip-resistant, so you can even put it on the floor. Pink foil glossy and frosted square mosaic tile, Tile Club, $33/sq.ft.

6. Wrapped in Color

Wrap yourself in luxury and warmth—and this mesmerizing magenta—with this 100-percent cashmere throw. The subtle waterweave pattern adds visual interest to the 50- by 65-inch blanket with 4-inch fringe on each end. Dry clean only. European Solid Cashmere Throw color Sangria, Williams-Sonoma, $299

ONCE UPON A TIME, working from home was only for the self-employed and gig workers. Today, working remotely—whether as part of a hybrid position, as a full-time remote employee or a freelancer—has become more common. Whether you have a whole room to yourself or just a desk in the corner of a guest room, you should love your workspace and feel productive when you’re in it. In addition, you want to have a quiet space and have it look great in the background for virtual meetings. The top things to consider are lighting, sound and the ambience of your space.

Lighting

Lighting is important to consider for your mood when you’re working. Do you prefer sunny and warm or diffused light and maybe a desk lamp? The right window treatments can control the natural light. If your window is in front of you, you don’t want harsh, blinding light in your eyes. And if it’s behind you, you have to diffuse it. Try a honeycomb shade that can be raised from the bottom or dropped from the top as a good option. Plantation shutters look upscale and reminiscent of a library, while a Roman shade can also be a stylish choice.

But for video meetings, you need to get the lighting just right. Too much light and you look washed out, too little light and your co-workers won’t be able to read your facial expressions. Think about how you orient your desk in relationship to a window. Ideally, you want natural light in front of you and never behind you. Designer Todd Stringer of Albuquerque’s Dana Stringer Interiors concurs. “If you have a window right behind you, you’re going to look like a silhouette,” he says.

To minimize glare, Stringer advises keeping glossy surfaces to a minimum. “Shiny walls will bounce the light,” he says, so stick with flat paint or a non-reflective wallpaper. Also, avoid task lighting or overhead lighting that can cause harsh shadows on your face. You can also invest in a quality ring lamp for video meetings to ensure you have ample light so you look polished and professional.

working virtually

a comfortable workspace is key for at-home workers

Sound

Not all people can work with noise and distractions— especially if you’ve been away from an office environment for a while. But if it helps you concentrate or is generally soothing, opt for a smart speaker to allow you to control the music and volume with your voice. So, if it’s across the room, and your phone rings, you can simply tell the device to pause or turn off the music before picking up the call.

Background music from within your workspace is one thing, but what if you need to dampen sound coming from outside the room? If you’re lucky enough to have a whole room for your office, there are many ways to mitigate sound. “The most obvious is a good door,” Stringer says. “It’s worth the extra money to get a solid core door.” If your office backs up to a well-used space like the family room, a bookcase on that wall can soften the sounds of kids playing or watching TV. Choose acoustic panels to dampen ambient noise. They come in colorful geometric shapes, grays and browns for a muted look, or even decorative cut-wood panels that are excellent for absorbing sound. And of course, area rugs help, too.

Ambience and Background

Surround yourself with inspiring decor that makes you feel happy and influences your creativity. Although you might want to look up and see beautiful items, you should also think about what’s behind you—directly in view during Zoom meetings.

Bookcases or shelves can make a good backdrop, but be sure to give some thought to what you display. You don’t want people getting distracted by your background and not listening to what you say. Curate a collection of books, decorative elements and art to create a pleasing backdrop. Keep the look minimal and monochromatic, if possible. Consider grouping books or magazines in magazine holders to create a streamlined look. Turn books spine-in to eliminate distracting colors and words or cover books in vellum to obscure the cover art. And always be sure, if the book spines are legible, you don’t have anything offcolor showing.

Consider the walls behind you, too. Stringer suggests when you choose a wall color, make sure it’s a flattering hue. “If you’re going to be seen a lot, pick a color that looks good on you.”

The most important thing about designing a workspace is to ensure it’s comfortable for you. That will encourage top productivity, creativity and a pleasant work experience—who wants to work any other way?

vista visionary

an Albuquerque couple gets a home with fabulous views thanks to thoughtful design

Paul Kenderdine’s meticulous assessment of the land before starting to design this home resulted in positioning the home to maximize the mountain views and minimize views of surrounding homes. Therefore, the home sits inserted into the hillside, juxtaposed with the street.

by Jessa Cast

Before designing a home, builder Paul Kenderdine, founder and owner of PWKI LLC, visits the proposed site and meanders on it, taking in each view from every angle. He considers the topography within the building envelope, the views he wants to highlight and any views he’d prefer to obscure. These are all pieces of a puzzle he begins constructing in his head well before putting pencil to paper.

In 2020, when a potential client approached Kenderdine about building their home, they knew he was the right fit for their vision. Besides loving a PWKI home they’d toured in Placitas and his aptitude for their preferred modern aesthetic, they valued his personal touch. “He answered his own phone and came right out to the site,” say the homeowners.

Kenderdine, who—with his wife Brenda who is also actively involved in designing the homes—recently celebrated 35 years in business, got to work on a floor plan after discussing the clients’ wish list. For starters, his layout would follow the land, not the street. “All the other houses are parallel with the street,” he says. “Instead, by following the natural landscape’s contours, you capture the views.” The 1.5-acre lot had a steep drop-off, which tightened the building envelope. To accommodate the four-

photographs by Amadeus Leitner

bedroom, 4,600-square-foot home, he tucked the guest rooms into the hillside in a lower story. From the driveway, though, the home appears single-story.

Starting adjacent to the front door and running straight through the house, onto and past the back patio, is a monumental wall Kenderdine refers to as the home’s “spine.” Oriented to capture views of the Sandia Mountains, the foothills and Mount Taylor, everything radiates off that spine. It also anchors a series of exceptional opportunities for framing those views. To emphasize the continuity of the monument wall, its indoor paint and outdoor stucco were color-matched, so that visual line carries through, uninterrupted.

On the back patio, an opening in the spine outlines a view west, like a painting, showcasing something stunning while also creating a unique definition of spaces—the one inhabited and the one observed. Inside, however, by the fireplace, is the residents’ sweet spot. “Our favorite view is of the crest through the clerestory windows,” say the homeowners. Using high windows, Kenderdine’s intent was to conceal the homes on that side of the house and still underscore the iconic Sandia Mountain crest.

Indoors, every surface is a canvas of soft white, accented by earthy neutrals. The tones—matte white tile floors, cream-colored walls and the sable-hued accent wall—intentionally harmonize

In the open-concept living and dining room, a full bar is ensconced in sleek cabinetry. When opened, it helps to migrate party traffic out of the kitchen. On the opposing wall, Kenderdine thoughtfully designed an inset for a family heirloom piano.

with the desert. When seen next to the view out a window, the colors don’t starkly contrast, but rather reflect the landscape. This is especially true of the subtly multicolored stone behind the patio water feature, which Kenderdine chose to replicate variegated desert shades. “I’m very consistent on that,” he says. “I bring the outside colors through.”

An opalescent tile backsplash balances against the kitchen’s toasty walnut-stained wood cabinetry, Wolf appliances and SubZero refrigerator. Take note of the meticulously matched walnut grain of the cabinetry and doors throughout the home. Though the living areas are open concept, tucked behind the kitchen is a snug breakfast nook.

Along the living room wall runs a portland cement banco, as useful for displaying art as for seating. “It matches up to the banco on the patio,” the homeowners say of the continuous line it suggests. “That’s another Kenderdine touch.”

In fact, continuous lines like that are an important aspect of Kenderdine’s design. For instance, though the ceilings are higher, he maintains an eight-foot-high visual line, demarcating an intended experience of a more intimate scale. In the living room, the monolith wall’s border and the window frames align, as do the dining room soffits and the kitchen ceiling. People won’t notice this

Instead of a traditional balustrade, Kenderdine chose glass, for a sleeker, lighter look. This also allows residents to experience the height of both stories as they descend the stairs. At the bottom of the stairs is another “moment,” a comfortable media space where guests can relax privately.

“That cantilevered reading nook was directly influenced by Brenda. She wants these little moments and, structurally, there are some tricky things going on there.”

– Paul Kenderdine

continuity, but he doesn’t intend for them to. Unaware, people just feel the resonance. “That’s the point,” he says.

A small but notable feature of the home is a cantilevered alcove, suspended from the second story next to the primary bedroom in a space that just as easily could have been omitted from the design. Outside, contrasting stucco color enlivens its exterior dimension and highlights the cubicle. On the interior, the small space functions as a reading nook. “That cantilevered reading nook was directly influenced by Brenda,” says Kenderdine. “She wants these little moments,” he says, “and, structurally, there are some tricky things going on there.”

Perhaps equally complex is the spacious, deep patio roof off the westfacing primary suite. Pushing those horizontal lines so far out serves a purpose beyond appearances. “In New Mexico, nine days out of ten it’s so hot you won’t use a deck. Drawing that cantilevered roofline out there offers protection to the homeowners’ bedroom and the deck, so they don’t overheat,” Kenderdine says.

“We just can’t express enough how thrilled we are with the whole experience,” say the homeowners. Depth of thought in design translates to a depth of joy in their new home.

A sliding barn door leads to the bathroom where a free-standing tub enjoys lots of natural light. Direct access to the sizeable deck allows for shaded seating and clear views to Mount Taylor.

Residents and their guests can sit around the fire, enjoy mountain air and a cool dip in the pool, or with the pocket doors open, just listen to the beautiful sounds of the water feature from inside.

resources

“vista visionary” – page 38

Home Designer/Builder/Interior Design PWKI LLC pwki.com

Home Staging

Mickey’s Staging Solutions

Appliances

Builders Source Appliance Gallery builderssource.com

Architectural Metal Duran Steel Fabricators, Inc.

Bathroom/Kitchen Fixtures Winsupply of Albuquerque albuquerquewinsupply.com

Bathtub Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

Cabinetry/Doors/Living Room Table Paramount Custom Cabinets

Central Vacuum System Albuquerque Sound & Vac, Inc. abqsoundandvac.com

Countertops Granite Passion LLC

Fireplaces Mountain West Sales mountainwestsales.net

Flooring Tile/Kitchen Backsplash Tile ProSource Wholesale

Front Door PWKI LLC and Paramount Custom Cabinets

Interior Doors

Paramount Custom Cabinets

Landscaping PWKI LLC and Plant World

Pool Design & Build Master Pools & Spas LLC

Windows Dwight’s Glass & Mirror

Water Features PWKI LLC

SPRING PARADE OF HOMES

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Sun Mountain Construction, Inc.

Where building green homes has been

for 36 years

By Heather Shoning Photography by Mark William

Norm Schreifels is a hands-on guy. So, if you’re going to build a home with him, be prepared to spend a lot of time together. “I’m at the job site. I’m not just a point-and-leave guy. I’m there, and my tools are with me all the time,” he says. Sun Mountain Construction, Inc. has been in business for 36 years, and Schreifels has personally overseen every project.

a top priority

In the company’s busiest years, it would have many homes in construction at once. These days, Schreifels is only interested in building a couple of homes each year, and he says most of his clients come from referrals.

“The moment we met with him at his office and noticed his many awards, I liked what I saw,” says recent client Jackie Hanson. “We went through plans with him, and he seemed excited to build our house.” Building just a couple of homes each year is plenty because of every detail he personally tends to. “For example, I can take my clients to my tile showroom, and my gal there is an expert. She helps with the design and the colors for that part of the job,” Schreifels says. “I do that for all phases of a project. They are the best at what they do. They watch out for me and the homeowner from the beginning to the end of the home build. They are a tight team I trust.”

He took Hanson to visit all those same trade partners. “His highest recommendation came from his subcontractors—the tile, heating and cooling, alarm people, and more,” Hanson says.

Signature Builder

“At least a half a dozen times I heard, ‘If I was building a house, Norm would be my builder.’”

Schreifels says you’re getting a green-built home whether you ask for it or not just because of the standard building practices he believes in. Sun Mountain Construction has been building green from day one. In fact, along with five or six other local builders, Schreifels helped form Build Green NM.

He says green is a menu, and there are many ways to achieve your green goals. He aims for net zero energy consumption and uses top-quality building products. “We try not to use any glues, adhesives, paints or wood products that can off gas,” Schreifels says. “And then we ensure there’s clean air inside the home.”

As a New Mexico builder, Schreifels has, of course, built his fair share of traditional Pueblo-style homes, but he’s also completed many contemporary spaces, including a recent industrial-style house. He seeks out projects that are unique or employ new technology. He’s looking forward to an upcoming project being built from hemp block.

“Technology changes from one house to the next,” he says. “It’s constantly a moving target—new products or systems. If you don’t stay on top of it, somebody else will.” These days, he’s incorporating smart home systems into nearly every build, saying most of his clients are savvy and want high-tech home automation.

“Every customer is different,” Schreifels says. “I’ve remained friends with many of them over the years, and that keeps me going. I’m really slowing down and trying to enjoy life a little. So, I’m looking for a special customer, as well as unique and challenging projects that I think nobody else has done.”

Sun Mountain Construction, Inc.

sunmtnconst.com

Signature Builder

Sun Mountain Construction, Inc.

100 Camino Bajada

4 bedrooms

4 baths

4,400 sq.ft.

Norm Schreifels

(505) 892-8855

norm@sunmtnconst.com

sunmtnconst.com

Some of the features in this unique home include timber frame trusses, wood floors, custom cabinets and doors, a large chef’s kitchen, craft room with a loft, and piano room. Large, covered

portals for comfortable outdoor living include a BBQ area, hot tub and fireplace. Pending Build Green New Mexico Emerald certification. Let us design and build your custom GREEN home.

From the Big I, head north on I-25 to Alameda Blvd. exit. Turn left on Alameda Blvd. and go 4.3 miles to Corrales Rd. Turn right on Corrales Rd. and go 5.1 miles to Camino Bajada and turn right. The home is on the right.

Amreston Homes, LLC

5252 Bullseye Road NE Lomas Encantadas

2

4 bedrooms

3 baths

3,047 sq.ft.

$554,990 (base price)

$661,956 (base price + all upgrades)

Kiko Torres (505) 738-6008

ftorres@amreston.com amreston.com

The Sapphire was designed to create an ideal mix of convenient livability, function, and presence. The open-concept design features a stately presence, spacious rooms, a dedicated office, a

generous loft, and incredible views. This home includes premium features like maple cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless appliances, and more. The Sapphire is a true gem.

From the Big I, take I-25 (north) and exit at Hwy. 550 (exit 242). Go (south) on Pat D’Arco Hwy. (528). Turn right onto Enchanted Hills Blvd. NE. Then turn left on Lincoln Ave. NE. Turn right onto Camino Encantadas then left at Kodiak Rd. NE. Turn right at Stelzer Dr. NE. The home is on the corner.

3 Hakes Brothers

4065 Mountain Trail Loop NE Lomas Encantadas

3 bedrooms

2.5 baths

2,119 sq.ft.

$380,990 (base price)

$447,041 (base price + all upgrades)

Dylan Dinkel (505) 573-4287

dylan.dinkel@hakesbrothers.com hakesbrothers.com

Luxury finishes at an unbeatable value! This beautiful Mediterranean-style home is located in the popular Lomas Encantadas community. The gourmet kitchen opens to the spacious

dining, living and patio areas, making this home a natural for entertaining family and friends. There are luxurious features throughout.

From the Big I, take I-25 north to Hwy. 550 (exit 242) turning left on Hwy. 550. Proceed to Pat D’Arco Hwy. (528), and make a left.Then turn right on Enchanted Hills Blvd. NE. Turn left on Lincoln Ave., then right onto Camino Venada NE, then right onto Camino Encantadas.Turn right on Windy Rd. NE, then left onto Mountain Trail Loop NE.

There’s plenty of room for the whole family in this spacious two-story home located in the very popular Mountain Hawk neighborhood. The community is minutes from Hwy. 550 with

Best Value Homes by Twilight Homes

6276 Gannett Dr. NE Mountain Hawk

4

4 bedrooms

3 baths

1,892 sq.ft.

$378,990 (base price)

$399,440 (base price + all upgrades)

Lissa Harris (505) 407-8638

lissa@bvhomesnm.com bvhomesnm.com

easy access to shopping and I-25. There are so many beautiful features and upgrades to inspire you in this affordable four-bedroom home.

From the Big I, head north on I-25, exit west (left) at Hwy. 550, travel west to NW Loop Rd. Turn south (left) onto NW Loop Rd.Turn east (left) on James Wall Rd. NE, then turn north (left) on Talisman Rd NE. Turn right on Gannett Dr. NE. The home will be on your right.

5908 Ridgeline Place NE Mariposa

3 bedrooms

3 baths

3,916 sq.ft.

$1,550,000

Michael Cecchini

(505) 918-8476

mike@ecoterrallc.com ecoterrallc.com

gourmet outdoor kitchen and a glass fence surrounding the pool and spa providing unobstructed views. Advanced building techniques and renewable energy provide a sustainable, healthy net zero electric energy home.

Take I-25 north to exit 242 for Bernalillo/ Placitas, head west on Hwy. 550, turn left on NW Loop Rd., then left onto Unser Blvd. NW. Head south on Unser Blvd. NW to Mariposa Pkwy. Go west on Mariposa Pkwy. to Redondo Sierra Vista NE. Go south (left) to Blue Gramma Dr. then south (left) to Reservoir Rd. Turn north on Reservoir Rd. (right) and proceed to Ridgeline Rd., then turn east (right) on Ridgeline Pl.Turn north (left) to address.

ecoterrallc.com (505)

918-8476

VALLEY

Stillbrooke Homes

8805 Horizon Way NE Horizon Village

BUILD FOR RENT

3 bedrooms

2 baths

1,704 sq.ft.

$2,700 - $2,950 (per month)

Jackie Ledon (505) 385-7313

sbh@stillbrooke.com

stillbrooke.com

Welcome to low-maintenance living. Horizon Village townhomes feature living areas upstairs with amazing views and the primary bedroom downstairs. This new community offers three

townhome designs with 2-car garages, private yards and a village common area. Enjoy rooftop 270-degree views from the fiesta deck.

Take I-25 north to exit 233 Alameda Blvd. NE. Head west on Alameda Blvd. NE to Horizon Blvd. NE then turn right. Turn left on Horizon Way NE. The townhouse is at the end of the road.

VALLEY 8 CJ & J Construction LLC

VIRTUAL

4 bedrooms

4 baths

3,482 sq.ft.

Jordan Pacheco (505) 615-4938

jordan@cjjconstruction.com

Carl Pacheco (505) 350-0748

carl.pacheco@cjjconstruction.com

cjjconstruction.com

This modern custom home features high ceilings and smart home technology for lighting, bathrooms and the kitchen. A hand-painted mural in the living room accents the beauty of

the home. A custom pool and outdoor living space can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Not open for public viewing. Please view this beautiful home online at www.paradenm.com

refrigerator. The views are unstoppable with this memorable property showcasing two amazing patios that include calming fountains, a luxurious pool and a therapeutic jacuzzi.

Las Ventanas Homes 9901 Carmel Avenue NE

3 bedrooms

3 baths

4,103 sq.ft.

$1,780,000

Scott Ashcraft

(505) 362-6824

tscott@lasventanasnm.com

lasventanasnm.com

We started with a lot that had amazing views of the city and the mountains … but, you had to be 10 feet off the ground for the best views. So, we designed this home with the primary

bedroom and all the living spaces upstairs. The result is a beautiful, contemporary home with sloping natural wood ceilings, a floating steel staircase, 4½-car garages and views that never end.

LOWE-BO Homes

637 Cougar Loop NE

3 bedrooms

3 baths

3,367 sq.ft.

$1,078,115

Ted Lowe

(505) 991-2555

tedlowe@outlook.com

lowe-bohomes.com

Truly a must-see masterpiece from LOWE-BO Homes! This beautiful, contemporary home could fill the pages of any design magazine. The space functions perfectly for the homeowners

while capturing impressive Sandia Mountain and Albuquerque views. Come experience this open floor plan, sensational kitchen, family room, elegant primary suite and fantastic outdoor living spaces.

Take I-25 north to exit NM 423 (Paseo Del Norte Blvd. NE.) Take Paseo Del Norte Blvd. NE east to Tramway Blvd. NE and turn left (north). Turn right on Cedar Hill Rd. NE, then left on Tramway Ln. NE. Next, turn right back onto Cedar Hill Rd. NE, then left onto Cougar Loop NE.

An easy way to achieve a designer look in your home is through layered print pairing in pillows, window coverings, table settings and more. Three main things to keep in mind for creating a balanced look include design, scale and a coordinating element. Design: Contrasting a floral with a geometric pattern is pleasing to the eye. Consider throwing in a polka-dot or stripe, as the rule of three will produce even greater results. Scale: Pair an over-sized print with a smallerscale design. And, finally, a coordinating element can be a solid color that is reflected in the prints.

desert industrial

a Santa Fe artist gets the perfect backdrop for a creative lifestyle

by

Cast

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, and Santa Fe exude a certain magic and appeal especially for artists. The picturesque vistas and smalltown charm are enchanting and inspiring. Danny Cameron is no stranger to the allure of San Miguel, and after retiring from 30 years in retail in California, he moved there. He found the same attraction to Santa Fe and spent time bounding between the two. Ultimately, he decided to settle in the Land of Enchantment. “There’s a similarity between San Miguel and Santa Fe,” says Cameron. “People are drawn in. This is home. This is it. I’m not leaving.” Ready to settle in, he shopped for a house but wasn’t inspired by any he toured. Then he discovered an unimproved, 4.5-acre lot for sale in the gated Haciendas Mirasol community—a secluded, serene locale only minutes from town. The site,

Jessa

photographs by Daniel Nadelbach

Concrete monoliths delineate spaces while framing views that change as one moves among them. Rigid lines of the concrete forms juxtapose and play up the softer natural landscape beyond.

perched on a ridge, boasted incredible views. “I just thought—this close to town, and with these views? Bingo,” says Cameron.

The True North Builders LLC development is an intimate locale with just eight lots. Owner Cody North, a fifth-generation builder, started True North Builders in 2009. Over the years, he’s built a lot of traditional Santa Fe-style houses. More recently, he’s transitioned toward a more modern look as his signature. Fortuitously, modern happened to be Cameron’s preferred aesthetic.

The pair engaged father and son team Louis Martinez, of Martinez Design Group, and Daniel J. Martinez to design the house, and Kirtlye Parker Design to help Cameron appoint the interior. Together the quartet focused on

the gorgeous vistas and catered their planning accordingly.

First, the structure needed to be narrow. “The lot runs along a ridge escarpment, so we had to build a longer, skinny home,” says North. A central living area, almost completely glassed in, is winged by the primary living quarters at one end and guest rooms at the other.

That central living area, with Pella glass doors that open to the desert landscape, recalls Philip Johnson’s famed 1940s Glass House. With so much visibility to nature, a glance to any window imbues a sense of connectedness to the outdoors.

Upon entry, the most arresting components are venerable wood beams spanning the ceiling. “The wood beams are the first thing visitors comment on. We left all the imperfections,

Rust orange in the steel beams is reflected in the orange front door, the wood element over the range, the cabinets in the service pantry and in the touchable fabric of the dining room chairs.

Dekton stone countertops and backsplash give the look of textured, rusted steel which lends to the unique, industrial style of the home.

A tidy service pantry uses the two wood tones from the kitchen and features a prep area with sink and a large wine refrigerator.

all the nails sticking out,” says Cameron. North sourced the century-old beams from the East Coast, where they’re salvaged from old farms and trestle bridges. Contrasting that time-worn wood is the patina of industrial-sized steel I-beams. And then there’s the concrete.

“I love concrete. I knew from the start I wanted concrete to be involved,” says Cameron. North’s team poured massive concrete wall segments, playing up the material’s more artful aspect. Against all those scaled-up elements, the engineered oak wood floors offer smoothness and warmth. Layering in a barely perceptible sheen are the hand-troweled plaster walls in a creamy white hue.

Those structural elements, aside from flavoring the home, also suggest delineation of spaces without enclosing rooms. Of particular importance for Cameron was the feeling of

entering the kitchen as a defined space. He says, “I wanted it to feel like a room, so you’re in the kitchen but it’s still wide open.” Reflecting the rusted beams, the island countertop and backsplash are of Dekton stone that itself looks like rusted steel. Adding a truly distinctive look are sleek Gaggenau appliances, in both the kitchen and service pantry. Of Gaggenau’s distinguishing style and exceptional craftsmanship North says, “they stand out. We wanted to push that envelope.”

Industrial-esque cabinet pulls were used throughout the home, as were most design materials and colors, to ensure visual continuity, such as stained knotty-alder doors. Every detail looks carefully tailored, which is important in minimalist design, where any flaw stands out. Cameron says North was obsessive about details. No flaws here, just a very clean look. Light switches, for example, are few and hidden, all

Instead of barstool seating at the island, Cameron opted for more sociable chairs and a sofa so guests may be comfortable and still close enough to socialize during meal prep.

connected to a whole-home automation system.

That system also operates security, media and climate control. It knows what time the sun sets and dims interior lights correspondingly, to set a mood. One might not notice that the inset ceiling lights, instead of the typical round shape, are small and square. It’s a minor but aesthetically effective detail.

Outside the living room is a multi-purpose water feature that’s equal parts soaking pool, hot tub and art installation. Cold or heated, it makes for a gorgeous place to soak and, over its infinity edge, admire Santa Fe’s dramatic landscape. “In warm weather with the doors open it sounds like you’re by a creek,” says Cameron.

Although the home is nearly 5,000 square feet, there are only two bedrooms, a studio and 3.5

bathrooms. Despite the size—especially of the common spaces—it feels very natural. “We kept things to a human scale by using lower ceilings. You still feel the expanse,” says North.

The home operates economically and is eco-friendly as well. A combination of a solar system, insulated barriers that doubly surpass the standard, and special truss walls that create a thermal break, means Cameron’s home is very green indeed. “He’s making more energy than he’s using,” says North.

When Cameron isn’t experimenting with art in his studio, he and his dog, Gus, can follow the community walking trail right into town. A lovely evening on the town is minutes away, and so is his restful home when it’s time to call it a night.

Rather than taking up precious surface space on the bedside tables, the bedside lights suspend from the ceiling. Over the gas fireplace are paintings by one of Cameron’s favorite artists, Donald Bachelor.

Industrial meets Zen in the primary bathroom with a pebble base surrounding the bathtub.

Thanks to the home’s ridge escarpment location, the outdoor living area plus soaking pool and hot tub offer expansive views of Santa Fe.

resources

“desert industrial” – page 64

Architect

Daniel J. Martinez, RA in collaboration with Martinez Design Group

Home Designer/Builder

True North Builders LLC

Interior Design

Kirtlye Parker Design

Audio/Visual System

Elan Home Automation Systems

Installation by Audiosmith

Appliances

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

Bathroom/Kitchen Fixtures Quality Bath

Beams

Trestlewood

Cabinetry/Doors/Living Room Table

Sierra Woods Cabinets LLC

Concrete Constructors & Associates, Inc.

Countertops/Kitchen Backsplash

Sherpa Stone LLC

Fireplaces Mountain West Sales mountainwestsales.net

Flooring (Tile)

Stonewood Flooring stonewoodnm.com

Flooring (Wood)

Elevation Construction Company LLC

Furnishings Reside Home howyoureside.com

Landscaping

Yellowstone Landscape

Metal Fabrication

Valhalla Metal Works

Pool Design & Build

D’Angelico Enterprises, Inc.

Sliding Window Wall/Windows

Pella Windows & Doors of Santa Fe pellaofsantafe.com

by Heather Shoning

luxurious lavs

relaxing personal spaces in a variety of design styles

Whether your aesthetic leans cool contemporary or totally traditional, your private spaces should be reflective of you and the way you want to unwind at the end of the day. Flip these pages for ideas, and don’t forget to consider how an element that might not match your style could be adapted for your perfect retreat.

classic retreat

This classic Territorial style home—with its painted wood ceiling, square wooden beams and windows with muntins— embraces those design elements while blending them seamlessly with contemporary finishes such as a glass-enclosed shower and brushed nickel fixtures. The homeowners wanted an open shower with a bench seat, so

Tierra Concepts’ Keith Gorges designed a drop-in tub unit with a banco that flows through into the shower for a sleek, beautiful architectural element. The space is on the second floor overlooking the Bosque River, so it was natural to include a private area for the homeowners to enjoy that. “We added a veranda to sit,” Gorges says. “When you can open the bathroom to an outdoor area, it adds a luxurious element to the space.”

BEAUTIFUL BATHS

emerald green

It’s not about color and luxury materials in this space, although it shines in those regards, too, with its warm, contemporary feel. In this primary bathroom, it’s all about the Build Green NM emerald certification—the highest level of certification available from the organization. “Our focus is on sustainability. This is a net zero home,” says Evan Kinsley, president and partner of Spiegel-Kinsley Construction. In the primary bathroom of this Placitas home, that means the builder included low-flow water fixtures with a recirculating system that provides near-instant hot water, saving up to 60 percent of usage. In addition to the green building elements, the space is gorgeous with white Shaker-style cabinetry, warm woodframed mirrors, contemporary black fixtures and a lavish extrawide and deep freestanding floating tub perfectly positioned to capture the mountain views.

Noah Romero

Noah Romero

simple elegance

Ted Lowe of LOWE-BO Homes doesn’t often have the luxury of designing exactly what he wants because he’s careful to cater to his clients’ wishes, but in this speculative home he embraced the opportunity to have fun with his own design choices. He also used feedback from focus groups to determine what design elements would be best suited to potential buyers. “I designed an elegant area to hide away from the world,” he says. The primary bathroom includes a built-in soaking tub, which Lowe notes is great for aging in place, and a shower with both a regular and rain head plus a corner bench. The curbless shower and 3-foot-wide doors appeal to this demographic as well. Lowe included luxury upgrades such as a bidet in the water closet; recessed, high-end Kohler medicine cabinets; and instead of a short vanity backsplash, the wood-look tile runs all the way to the ceiling.

Herschel Mair

Herschel Mair

building history

A longtime Santa Fe resident—and fan of Sharon Woods–designed homes—decided to leave her Las Campanas home and build a new one in the Tesero Enclave. She turned to Rob and Shane Woods of Woods Design Builders to recreate their mother’s style, and in conjunction with Lorn Tryk of Lorn Tryk Architects and designer Yuki Murata of Moderngoods, they captured it in spades from the heavy wooden corbels, carved wood materials, reclaimed items and iron accessories forged in traditional, decorative styles. Murata specified a window ledge behind the classic clawfoot tub to carry the granite countertop material across the space to create balance. Diamond plaster walls and a traditional tub filler in oil-rubbed bronze complete the look. “There is value in having a design that feels calming especially for a bathroom,” Murata says. “Credit to Lorn for his design ethos. He likes symmetry, which makes spaces feel balanced, calm and beautiful.”

Wendy McEahern

amenity overload

When Richard Medina of Fellowship Homes approached this primary bathroom in a custom Rio Rancho Estates home, his focus was on packing in as many amenities as possible into the modest footprint. The homeowners sought a luxurious space, and Medina delivered with a neutral—yet awe-inspiring—palette boasting texture and pattern. The ash stained, knotty birch cabinetry is rich and warm. Heavily veined countertops mesh perfectly with the herringbone floor tile and striated inset. Medina opted for a built-in tub for efficiency and heat retention, and to make the space feel like a hotel-style retreat, he included a beverage station with sink, beverage refrigerator and coffee maker. “I’m proud of the number of amenities we were able to include in this small footprint,” Medina says. “A two-person soaking tub, double vanity with makeup station—all with a custom built-in feel.”

classic retreat

Builder: Tierra Concepts, Inc.; Interior design: Violante & Rochford Interiors; Bathtub/Fixtures/ Sinks: Santa Fe by Design; Cabinetry: H and S Craftsman LLC; Countertops: Counter Intelligence; Flooring/Backsplash: Allbright & Lockwood

emerald green

Architecture: Jim Beverly Designs; Builder: SpiegelKinsley Construction; Interior Design: Laura Myers Interiors; Cabinetry: J&K Cabinetry; Countertops/ Backsplash: United Stoneworks; Flooring: Stonewood Flooring LLC

simple elegance

Architecture: Ron Montoya Custom Designs; Builder: LOWE-BO Homes; Interior Design: Maria OchoaGutierrez, Ray’s Flooring Specialists; Bathtub/ Fixtures/Sink: Winsupply of Albuquerque; Cabinetry

Design: Suzanne Robles, Ray’s Flooring Specialists; Countertops: Creative Cabinets, Countertops & More; Lighting: Turn On Lighting; Tile: Ray’s Flooring Specialists

building history

Architecture: Lorn Tryk Architects; Builder: Woods Design Builders; Interior design: Moderngoods; Bathtub/Fixtures: Santa Fe by Design; Cabinetry: Bespoke Woodwork; Countertops: Arizona Tile; Tile: Statements

amenity overload

Architecture: Adwelling Design LLC; Builder/Interior Design: Fellowship Homes; Bathtub/Fixtures: Winsupply of Albuquerque; Beverage Station Appliances: Builders Source Appliance Gallery; Cabinetry: LB Cabinetry; Countertops/Sink: Stone Systems; Tile: Daltile

Mediakingsmen

Mediakingsmen

by Faerl Marie Torres

peel-and-style

the bold virtue of peel-and-stick wallpaper

WALLPAPER IS MAKING A COMEBACK from luxury homes to the coat closets of studio apartments. Current designs range from subtle, faux effects to bold, graphic prints and trompe l’oeil murals a la de Gournay. No matter your residence, peel-and-stick wallpaper is the ultimate solution for on-trend styling and, without consequence, if you change your aesthetic or your mind.

Much like their contemporaries, the earliest wallpapers were used inside cabinetry and small spaces. Original designs

were block printed in black ink before production methods allowed for hand-painted, colorful scenes. “Up until 1820, all wallpapers were produced by hand, which was very high cost,” says Luiz Moreira, co-founder and COO of Walls by Me. Mass production reduced cost and expanded accessibility but didn’t affect the labor-intensive and messy installation process. Enter the peel-and-stick revolution.

“Peel-and-stick is the best thing that has happened to interior design,” says Beatrice Moore from DeccoPrint. In addition to being easy to apply and remove, Moore likes that it’s customizable, with companies like DeccoPrint able to change the scale, color palette and even some design elements to best suit your needs. One of her favorite things is the ability for renters to customize

a space, making it feel bespoke, even if only for a lease term.

High-quality peel-and-stick is easy to apply, durable, long-lasting and won’t damage the walls when removed. Moreira added that washable, PVC-free wallpaper, printed with nontoxic inks, is particularly great when kids are present. It’s perfect for transitional spaces like nurseries, where the interior style will evolve more quickly, and if you want to indulge in a bold, bright or exotic trend, peel-and-stick is ideal for any project.

For current trends, Moreira says, “Chinoiserie will continue through 2023 and maximalist style with bold, exotic themes, animals and florals.” It’s a great way to create a statement about your style and personality, even if it’s prone to change. “You can go from classic to contemporary style, minimalist to maximalist, delicate floral to bold, bright jungle design. That is not something you can get with paint.”

Buffy Kline, interior designer and owner of WGD Interiors in Santa Fe, is excited about peel-and-stick for small spaces. “More is more and less is a bore,” she says, quoting fashion icon and interior designer Iris Apfel and advocating a high-impact statement using the colors and designs you love. “In small, tiny places, go ‘more,’ and take advantage of a captive audience.” Kline loves wallpaper for powder rooms, laundry rooms and as a replacement for headboards. “It’s so effective in small spaces,” she says, “because they’re so impactful. You can make it really glamorous, really fun or whimsical, creating impact without spending a lot of money.” In addition to walls, peel-and-stick is ideal for furniture, lining bookcases and cabinetry, as an accent on decor elements, or as a substitute for art. Kline

“More is more and less is a bore.”

– Buffy Kline quoting fashion icon and interior designer Iris Apfel

Peel-and-stick wallpapers are the perfect solution for amping up your interior design without a long-term commitment.

Walls by Me WGD Interiors

sees wallpaper trending in form with art. “I see much more abstract types of art-based wallpapers,” she says.

Consider mixing complementary designs or going print-on-print, echoing the wallpaper in a room’s upholstered accents through a company like Spoonflower, where you can order peel-and-stick, accents and fabric all printed in the same pattern. Whether you’re ready to makeover a coat closet or revamp your home office, be brave and make a style proclamation using peel-and-stick wallpaper.

Courtesy Walls By Me

Design

Courtesy Walls By Me

“You can go from classic to contemporary style, minimalist to maximalist, delicate floral to bold, bright jungle design. That is not something you can get with paint.”

– Luiz Moreira

We love our crisp spring evenings in New Mexico. There’s nothing like sitting out in the yard under the stars enjoying a gentle breeze with the fire pit roaring to keep your toes toasty. But what if you could easily add the final element—water—to your space, making it even more tranquil? You can add the beauty of trickling water and its relaxing sound to your outdoor area by installing a fountain. You can opt for a freestanding, wall-mounted or even a small tabletop one. They come with a water reservoir and pump so you can fill it, plug it in and enjoy! Bonus: The larger fountains can give your feathered friends a much-needed drink in the warmer months.

by Jessa Cast

sustainably delicious

this farm-to-table restaurant is as friendly to the earth as it is to the tastebuds

“IT’S AN ODE to New Mexico, really, and the farm-to-table movement,” says Cherie Montoya. “It’s an homage to the way most generational families here lived. Families had gardens and grew a lot of their own food.” From that concept, in 2012, Montoya founded and grew Farm & Table, a restaurant focused on fresh ingredients tucked into a quiet stretch of Albuquerque’s North Valley.

True to its moniker and Montoya’s vision, this one-of-a-kind establishment is all about moving food straight from the field to the plate. Its atmosphere is lively but serene. Much of the restaurant is dedicated to al fresco dining on the award-winning patio, strung with romantic lights and surrounded by towering

trees. It’s only open for dinner, making starry sky viewing a common mealtime perk.

From the street, one could easily miss that this local gem sits at the front of a sweeping 12-acre property. Montoya’s father purchased the land long ago to preserve it and prevent it from being populated with homes. Now, Montoya and her team are in the process of turning that land into a permaculture farm to support the restaurant’s menu. They grow nuts, berries, fruit and a few crops with an eye on sustainability. Ingredients not grown on-site are sourced from local farms to ensure only fresh, inseason products go into every dish.

“Our restaurant is very different from the average restaurant because we are beholden to seasonal availability. So, we are always changing the menu based on the ingredients we can get from farmers,” says Montoya. “Our chef, Jens Smith, is fantastic. He is skilled at creating seasonal menus by working with those local farmers.”

The dinner menu offers light fare—appetizers or less-filling meals—and main entrees. Though the menu changes, some recent dishes include a pear and Gruyere salad with turnips and tarragon, a curried root-vegetables plate, trout with quinoa and

Farm & Table offers farm dinners in its extensive outdoor area where the restaurant also has crops that help sustain the menu.

Courtesy Farm & Table

Courtesy Farm & Table

Su Cocina

sunchoke, and a ribeye with potatoes and greens. Vegetarians have plenty to choose from among the vegetable-rich options. Every dish is plated beautifully, celebrating the simplicity and flavor of each ingredient. Artful, unfussy and delightfully tasty.

Beer and wine are available, as well as creative desserts, some of which the restaurant suggests a wine or port pairing. For those curious about the in-season ingredients behind the current menu, on the website, chef Smith posts the seasonal foods and the farms from which they hail. Farm & Table also hosts themed dinners each month. Look for themes based on the flavors from a specific region or pairings for a particular libation. Relish the local bounty of the earth in a unique and tranquil locale where the food and service are stellar and supporting sustainability feels good.

“We are always changing the menu based on the ingredients we can get from farmers.”

– Cherie Montoya

Courtesy Farm & Table

by James Selby

grab a unique Grüner Veltliner for spring a crisp white

NOTHING SO BECOMES THE BOUNTY of spring than a lively crisp white wine, sophisticated yet quaffable, bringing fascination to every sip. Beyond well-known varieties, Grüner Veltliner is one of the world’s notable grapes and increasingly sought after. Its uniqueness shows in aromas of yellow apple and white pepper with flavors of ginger, lime and dried herbs in a balancing act between acidity and lushness.

Austria is the world’s epicenter of Grüner (grew-nur), as it’s casually called, a tremendous bargain for quality and unfailing satisfaction in all price ranges. Everyday versions, commonly bottled in liters, provide idyllic patio drinkability and charm. Ask your wine shop for those from Berger, Hofer or Hiedler wineries ($14-23).

Finer interpretations in traditional 750 milliliter sizes sell for not much more.

The 300-year-old estate of Hermann Moser’s Ried (“single vineyard”) Gebling has notions of yellow pear, baked lemon and miso ($20). Respected fourthgenerational winemaker Bernhard Ott produces tangy Am Berg (“from the mountain”), redolent of watercress and warm stone ($25).

The next plateau is revelatory, making you ask how so much flavor came from grapes. Willi Bründlmayer’s Ried Loiserberg reveals silky melon, meadow herbs and white blossoms ($35). Near Vienna, Gobelsburg occupies a castle and vineyards dating from the 11th century; the quiet, slender power of their Ried Renner, texturally rich, nuanced accents of basil and pear skin, glide over your palate ($50).

Seek Grüner from Hungary, Northern Italy, New Zealand and the few progressive winemakers in the U.S. championing the variety, such as Martin Woods in the Willamette Valley of Oregon (Havlin Vineyard, $35), or Vocal Vineyards of Monterey, California (Alfaro Vineyard, $38).

For occasions casual or celebratory, paired with grilled asparagus, artichokes, prosciutto with melon, sausage, schnitzel, trout or tapas, Grüner Veltliner, according to “The Wine Bible” author Karen MacNeil, “is the vinous equivalent to perfect pitch.”

Courtesy Evan Martin, Martin Woods

The 11th-century castle and vineyards of Gobelsburg near Vienna.

Courtesy Gabriel Clary, Skurnik Wines & Spirits

Courtesy Gabriel Clary, Skurnik Wines & Spirits

blowin’ in the wind artist Mark White’s mesmerizing kinetic sculptures

SPINNING WILDLY in a blustery wind or twirling lazily in a soft breeze, artist Mark White’s kinetic sculptures are not just mechanical marvels but mind-bending optical illusions.

The outdoor sculptures, as high as 5 feet and mounted on poles soaring another 8 feet, are orbs, spirals, or abstract representations of flowers, plants and even jellyfish, making a dramatic and colorful statement in the garden.

White had been making art— mostly painting—decades ago when he first had the idea for the wind sculptures while working full-time as a metalworker in the HVAC industry.

“I’d get up at three or four to paint before work since early morning is when I’ve always felt most creative,” White says. “I was also trying to find a way to use my metalwork in my art.” He wasn’t sure quite how to do that—until he watched one of his daughter’s dance performances.

“As I watched the dancers rotate on stage, sometimes one would turn in the opposite direction, and that inspired me,” he says. “I loved the idea of counter-revolving movement; they turned and spun in opposite directions, and the lines of their arms

and legs became my abstractions for my sculptures.”

White began crafting the sculptures in his spare time. Not only did he make the art, but he also had to design the metal-cutting tools needed to create the distinctive shapes and sizes, and he developed a proprietary patina process. “After ten years,” he says, “I decided to give it my all, to make my art my occupation.” He and his wife, Sue, moved from Aspen, Colorado, to Santa Fe, where he opened a studio, and his sculptures quickly earned a loyal following.

Built to withstand high winds, the pieces come with important tips on where to place them in the yard to successfully catch the wind.

Mark White’s kinetic sculptures are ... mind-bending optical illusions.

They also include an interesting disclaimer—one that’s just as whimsical as the sculptures themselves: “Extended viewing may cause extreme relaxation and bouts of pleasant daydreaming.”

The sculptures and White’s paintings can be ordered from markwhitefineart.com or purchase sculptures at Luca Decor on Canyon Road in Santa Fe.

Artist Spotlight by Lisa Truesdale

Courtesy Mark White

friendly Fredericksburg

enjoy this quaint town in the heart of Texas Hill Country

IF THERE’S EVER ANY DOUBT whether Fredericksburg, Texas, is open to visitors, one need only look at the street signs. Heading east down a stretch of historic Main Street, the first letter of each avenue name (Adams, Llano, Lincoln, etc.) spells out a message: “A-L-L W-E-L-CO-M-E.” Going the other way, the friendly acronym is “C-O-M-E B-A-C-K.”

After the town was officially incorporated in 1933, local leaders renamed the streets to make it clear: Fredericksburg will always be a welcoming destination. Yet that

hospitable spirit can be traced back to the 1840s when German immigrants first settled the town. Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, due west of Austin and northwest of San Antonio, Fredericksburg soon became a popular layover spot for travelers heading west. This gave rise in the early 1900s to the town’s tourism industry, which has been booming ever since.

Practically every tourist destination boasts of offering “something for everyone,” but Fredericksburg truly delivers. Charming, quaint and historic, yet elegant and cosmopolitan, it’s a delightful mix of German and Texan history and traditions. Bursting with great shopping, galleries, award-winning restaurants and historical sites, it’s the ideal gathering spot for romantic getaways, family vacations and reunions, and girlfriend weekends all year ’round.

In spring, the star of the show is wildflowers, like bluebonnets, purple tansy, oxeyed daisies and wine cup flowers. Driving along country roads to savor the beauty—

Trish Rawls

and capture it with your camera—makes for a delightful, relaxing afternoon. Mother Nature can be unpredictable, though, so if you miss the colorful drama, check out Wildseed Farms on the outskirts of town. As the nation’s largest working wildflower farm, it’s got scenic pathways leading through 1,000 cultivated acres of magnificent blooms—and seeds to take home for cultivating your own stunning display.

Summer visitors get to enjoy the ever-popular peach season. Those German immigrants knew what they were doing when they began planting peach trees in the 1920s; the area boasts the perfect combination of rich soil and favorable temperature swings from day to night. From about mid-May to mid-August, you’ll find peachsomething on just about every restaurant’s menu—baked into cobblers and pies, incorporated into savory recipes, even featured in refreshing cocktails. Buy dozens of varieties of fresh peaches by the bushel to take home, or pick your own (along with blackberries and other juicy fruits) at one of the many family-owned orchards. At Das Peach House, don’t miss the delicious jams, jellies and sauces featuring fresh local fruit.

And then there’s the wine. Texas Hill Country is home to more than 100 wineries (plus several breweries and distilleries), and Fredericksburg is at the exciting epicenter. Crafting a

Trish Rawls

Ottos German Bistro

personalized driving tour or hopping aboard one of the many shuttles or bus tours, visitors can easily hit up several area wineries in a day. If you’re up for squishing and stomping grapes, schedule a visit in late July or early August.

Though Fredericksburg is home to thousands of hotel rooms and vacation rentals, a truly unique lodging option makes the trip even more special. Odonata Escape is a “vacation compound” with elegant themed suites masterfully crafted from repurposed shipping containers, while HoneyTree Farm is filled with indulgent, totally grownup treehouses. The Hill Country Herb Garden features charming Sunday Houses modeled after the tiny cottages the German farmers built in town for when they came for weekend shopping and churchgoing. The property also has an herb garden, a new on-site restaurant, yoga classes and a high-end day spa. Or stay at a winery—The Vine on Middle Creek is an 8.5-acre working vineyard with six new luxury cottages on site. As for when to visit, there’s no bad time of year, though Amanda Koone of the

Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau offers this insider tip: “Visit midweek to truly experience it like a local.”

resources

Fredericksburg CVB

visitfredericksburgtx.com

Wildseed Farms wildseedfarms.com

Das Peach House jelly.com

Odonata Escape

odonataescape.com

HoneyTree Farm honeytreefbg.com

Hill Country Herb Garden

hillcountryherbgarden.com

The Vine on Middle Creek

thevineonmiddlecreek.com

Courtesy Signor Vineyards

Courtesy Fredericksburg CVB

Charming Signor Vineyards is just one of many wineries you can visit in the Fredericksburg area.

Vereins Kirche, a replica of the German church that once stood in the main square, is part of the Pioneer Museum.

Vida Buena

by Kate Jonuska

easy approach

a simple guide for a perfect outdoor space

Field Guide to Outside Style: Design & Plant Your Perfect Outdoor Space, by Ryan McEnaney, published by Cool Springs Press, hardcover, $20.

DATE YOUR HOME. Find your gardening personality. Recipe cards inside! Chatty and accessible, Ryan McEnaney brings the easy, causal tone of your favorite magazine into the realm of garden reference books in “Field Guide to Outside Style: Design & Plant Your Perfect Outdoor Space.”

That chatty tone stems from deep experience: McEnaney is a fifth-generation family member and owner at Bailey Nurseries, founded in 1905 in Minnesota, where he serves as spokesperson. And his light framing of what can be an overwhelming subject—planning an entire garden—is delightful as well as instructive.

For instance, he uses a dating analogy to walk readers through planning and prepping a garden area. The brunch date encourages guests to collect jars of dirt to test for composition, which makes a party out of soil testing.

Tracy Walsh

“Each date,” he explains, “will check a box from something you need to remember when we actually get to planning your garden and choosing plant recipes.”

Similarly, the book outlines three main gardening personalities: Martha (classic), Tommy (minimalist) and Kelly (naturalist). As entertaining as an online quiz and full of visual examples, these archetypes are genuinely helpful for gardening newcomers to determine their taste and goals. McEnaney sets up example spaces and explains how a Kelly might approach the space differently than a Martha or a Tommy.

Then later during the nitty gritty of plant planning, he again uses these archetypes to set up “recipe cards,” meaning suggested combinations of plants for different climate zones, e.g. for Kellys in cold, temperate or subtropical areas. Certainly, you’re encouraged to riff on and evolve those recipes, but such cheat sheets are priceless distillations of expertise to the novice and intermediate gardener.

By not taking an overwhelming subject too seriously, “Field Guide to Outside Style” encourages readers to start from wherever they are and move toward the beautiful outside space of their dreams.

Shutterstock.com/Fariz Abasov

by Kate Jonuska

growing stories

American Roots: Lessons and Inspiration from the Designers Reimagining Our Home Gardens, by Nick McCullough, Allison McCullough and Teresa Woodard published by Timber Press, images courtesy Timber Press, hardcover, $25.

GARDENING CAN OFTEN BE a solitary activity, but in “American Roots: Lessons and Inspiration from the Designers Reimagining Our Home Gardens,” authors Teresa Woodward, Allison McCullough and Nick McCullough expose how gardening is also a community, one that thrives on mutual respect and the free exchange of ideas.

“The American gardening spirit is one of the most creative and diverse I have experienced in all my travels,” writes Nick McCullough, explaining that the book was inspired during pandemic lockdowns, when landscape designers may have been isolated in their own yards but found joy connecting online. The book is a pictorial tour through 20 of these professionals’ home gardens from across the nation, each sharing their favorite plants and invaluable tips—plus

tales of gardening for connection, healing and even “rewilding”

occasional adorable photos of their dogs. The first section is dedicated to authors Nick and Allison McCullough’s garden, which boasts sculpted hedges, brilliant purple highlights and the integration of several found objects. They include tips on how to shop for antique and repurposed objects both online and in small towns. Later, Jeff Epping of Wisconsin shows off his stunning and lush gravel garden and shares his experience about the plants that thrive in gravel. Other designers are “rewilding suburbia” or restoring historic properties, each story fresh and interesting. A heart-warming number of these personal stories are healing journeys, from an injury that created a new career in plants to a Black gardener renovating a former plantation in Georgia. Not every area of the country is represented, nonetheless, in addition to offering hundreds of pages of visual inspiration, “American Roots” warms readers’ hearts by showing both the diversity and unity within the community of American gardeners.

watching and waiting

Say’s phoebe is always on the hunt

ONE OF THE MANY THINGS I LOVE about spring in northern New Mexico is witnessing the return of birds that have wintered in warmer climates and the sudden realization that some of my favorite cold-weather birds have quietly exited the scene. This seasonal changing of the guard is what birders live for.

When the temperatures warm up, one of the first birds to re-enter the picture here is the Say’s phoebe, a rather nondescript little brown bird with a sleekly shaped dark head, yellow to orange breast and sturdy beak. The Say’s phoebe’s return to the neighborhood is always a surprise and a delight, but also a reminder that the insects and bugs that make up its diet will also appear soon. I think of phoebes and other members of the flycatcher family like Western and Cassin’s kingbirds, ash-throated flycatchers and loggerhead shrikes as nature’s pest controllers—and so I welcome them with open arms.

The Say’s phoebe prefers dry areas like our high desert and feasts on the insects that inhabit those scrubby places. Phoebes are masters at perching, waiting patiently atop a wire, pole, or even a single, tall dead stalk for a beetle, grasshopper, fly or other insect to trundle into view. Making its move, the phoebe will snatch the insect expertly right out of the air or dive to the ground and pounce on its prey.

Being insect eaters, Say’s phoebes won’t be visiting your feeders. But they do have a fondness for nesting among human houses. Don’t be surprised to find a phoebe couple checking out a light fixture or crevice beneath your portal for a nice spot to raise a brood. If you can build a nice flat platform in a covered area, you’d be doing these birds a kindness.

For two summers in a row, a lone Say’s phoebe has positioned

Just Winging

by Amy Gross

himself on a street sign at the end of my loop, a tiny sentinel who placidly watches our cars going in and out. Everyone on the street refers to this sweet little guy as the neighborhood watch. The joke is on us, though; he’s actually keeping a sharp eye out for lunch! But as we humans unashamedly anthropomorphize our feathered friends, I’m hoping he will return this summer to preside as our neighborhood greeter once again.

Amy Gross is a birder and the organizer of Santa Fe Birdbrains, a Northern New Mexico–based Meetup group.

slabs. milling. furnishings.

Utilize Local Wood in Your Home Decor

7 and 9 Grillo Loco, Santa Fe

This one-of-a kind, 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom contemporary home with a Southwestern aesthetic sits on 4.25 acres (2 lots) in Las Campanas. The single-level home was specifically sited to capture the sweeping vistas of the Sangre de Cristo, Ortiz and Sandia mountains. The open floor plan seamlessly merges interior spaces with outdoor areas. The great room features a 14’ ceiling, rusted steel beams, bronzed metal-clad fireplace and sleek custom cabinetry. The gourmet kitchen includes high-end appliances, pot filler, wine cooler, oversized center island with prep sink and a service pantry. The owner’s suite has a fireplace, wet bar, new California Closets–designed closet and a spa-like bath. The study/media room has bleached oak floors, double desks and a fireplace. A separate wing includes two guest rooms with ensuite baths. Other features: diamond plaster walls, built-in speakers, a 3-car heated garage, xeriscaping and a rainwater harvesting system.

Listing Price: $2,995,000

Contact: Darlene Streit, Sotheby’s International Realty, 505-920-8001 dstreit@dstreit.com

Daniel Nadlebach

Photo: © Daniel Nadelbach

Photo: © Daniel Nadelbach

Photo: © Daniel Nadelbach

Photo: © Daniel Nadelbach

Photo: © Daniel Nadelbach

Carol Orona

perfectly pueblo

When you can’t see through the condensation build-up on your windows, and they won’t slide open, or when the single-pane glass rattles in the frames when the wind blows, it’s time to start thinking about replacing them.

Whether you decide to replace some or all the windows, this investment will provide a quieter, more comfortable indoor environment and add fresh curb appeal to your home. Windows are a significant investment, so it’s essential to be a savvy shopper when researching replacements.

There are a couple of different ways to go about replacing windows. Pocket or insert replacement windows keep the original frame, trim and casing. These work well if the existing frame and trim are in good condition or if you have masonry walls. Adding decorative trim or re-stuccoing after window installation also gives a clean new appearance to your home. Full replacement windows take out the entire unit and install a new window and frame. These have flanges that cover the area where the window meets the exterior finish, creating a smooth transition and covering minor damage that may occur during window removal.

Style and materials are significant factors: Single- or double-hung windows are cost-efficient. In contrast, casement windows seal tighter and have a crank for ease of opening and closing. Vinyl, composite and wood are the most common materials, and all have good performance ratings but vary dramatically in price. Color, unique shapes, grills and decorative hardware also factor into the cost.

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) sets window and door standards. These standards are valuable for consumers when comparing performance information and making purchasing decisions. The following factors will help you evaluate window cost and performance:

U-Factor

Measures the rate of heat transfer and how well the window is insulated. The lower the number, the better the window insulates.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)

This number tells how well the window blocks heat from sunlight. The lower the number, the less solar heat the window transmits.

Visible Transmittance (VT)

Measures the amount of light transmitted through the window. The higher the number, the more natural light gets in.

A great window only performs as well as its installation. Be sure, as you embark on a replacement project, to get references and verify that the installers have been trained by the manufacturer and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions or the manufacturer’s warranty may be void.

Carol Orona holds a master’s degree in architecture and has a passion for building science. She is nationally recognized for her work and dedication to sustainable high-performance homes and loves sharing her knowledge.

This Historic Eastside hilltop, 4-bedroom, 5.5-bath estate offers glorious views of the Jemez and Sangre de Cristo mountains. The pueblo style main residence offers an inviting living room with large cast stone fireplace and adjoining sitting room; and a well-appointed chef’s kitchen with access to outside entertaining spaces, including a wood-burning kiva fireplace and grill. The primary suite has a beautiful fireplace, two sets of French doors to a balcony and a spa-inspired bath. Generously proportioned rooms feature diamond plaster walls and reclaimed oak floors. The guest house delights with finishes consistent with the main residence. The completely enclosed compound has mature gardens, gorgeous hardscape, Aspen groves and numerous outside spaces to enjoy. This is an exceptional property in a premier location that includes a 3-car garage.

Listing Price: $4,995,000

Contact: Caroline Russell, Sotheby’s International Realty, 505-699-0909 caroline.russell@sothebys.realty

picture perfect pick windows that look great and are suitable for your home and budget

Marshall Elias Photography

A vignette in your home is a small space designed to create a pause and provide a pleasing rest for the eyes. Often, this applies to a foyer, coffee table or bedside table. Creating a unique vignette for your home is easy. First, choose your spot, then gather a small collection of like items in varying sizes and heights. For instance, in an entryway or living room, top a small table with a lamp and potted plant or floral arrangement. Add artwork to the wall behind the table, then storage containers or other decorative items creating a cohesive color palette.

fashions enhance the beauty of any textures, styles and colors for your for years to come.

fashions enhance the beauty of any textures, styles and colors for your for years to come. endless. endless.

fashions enhance the beauty of any textures, styles and colors for your for years to come.

From traditional to contemporary, Hunter Douglas window fashions enhance the beauty of any décor. Contact us to explore the wide variety of fabrics, textures, styles and colors for your home. Whatever you select, your rooms are sure to be inviting for years to come.

From traditional to contemporary, Hunter Douglas window fashions enhance the beauty of any décor. Contact us to explore the wide variety of fabrics, textures, styles and colors for your home. Whatever you select, your rooms are sure to be inviting for years to come.

Screen Shades

From traditional to contemporary, Hunter Douglas window fashions enhance the beauty of any décor. Contact us to explore the wide variety of fabrics, textures, styles and colors for your home. Whatever you select, your rooms are sure to be inviting for years to come.

With Hunter Douglas window fashions, the possibilities are endless.

NM

Sandoval Street, Santa Fe, NM

With Hunter Douglas

window fashions,

the possibilities are endless.

Sandoval Street, Santa Fe, NM

With Hunter Douglas window fashions, the

bird bath

To celebrate the water when it comes to the desert, Praxis Design/Build created a small garden with a fountain feature outside the primary bathroom of this Santa Fe home, and when the homeowner introduced a bird sculpture, they dubbed it the “bird bath.” The six-foot-long fountain with another fivefoot ipe wood bench is perfect for sitting, relaxing and listening to the sound of the water, and the garden is visible from the bathroom through a glass wall in the wet room. “The inspiration for this was to celebrate the water, creating sound,” says Fernando Garcia, lead designer on this project and construction project manager for Praxis. “In addition, there’s a road nearby, so this feature helps buffer the noise.” The fountain was designed to capture rainwater. When it’s not raining, it recirculates the water stored in cisterns on the property.

Praxis Design/Build

Adios photograph by Daniel Nadelbach

BUILT FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE.