HOME Austin-San Antonio
D E S I G N
&
JUNE/JULY 2018
D E C O R®
Woodworking at its
FINEST
Kingwood has produced over 5,000 kitchens and related projects in its 40-year history. Our furniture grade custom cabinetry designs can be found in homes throughout Texas and beyond. Please visit our new showroom in Fredericksburg, Texas for additional information.
401 S. Lincoln St., Fredericksburg, TX | 830.990.0565 | www.kingwoodcabinets.com
contents june/july 2018 dwell 20 Hello, Summer! 22 What’s The Difference? 23 Sea Oats 23 Design Board
features 26 Cutting Edge 34 Dream Home
26 resources
42 A Cabin In The Country 48 Coastal Comfort
54 Making Waves
design outdoor 56 Urban Treehouse
34
outdoor 58 Living It Up
contributing editors NARI 41 Martha Bizzell, NARI San Antonio
departments fabulous finds 62 Wine Country
spotlights 12 From The Editor 64 Design Spotlight 65 Arts and Culture Spotlight 66 Advertising Index
42
10 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
48
Contractor, Haven Builders
Wood Entry Doors
|
|
Fiberglass
Patio Door Systems
New Construction San Antonio Showroom: 12402 West Avenue San Antonio, TX 78216
(210) 340-3141
| Wrought Iron
|
|
Remodel
Custom Doors & Glass |
Installation
thefrontdoorco.com
Austin Showroom: 9222 Burnet Road, Ste. 104 Austin, TX 78758
(512) 459-9034
From the editor
Take it outside
G
rowing up, my parents took my little brother and me on the obligatory coast trip every summer, and one year in high school, I brought a friend along. It happened to be the weekend of Princess Diana’s wedding, and we stayed in the hotel room watching it. My dad was livid. By the next year, I was driving myself to the beach, and now as a mom, my friends and I haul our kids down for a slightly different kind of girls’ trip. Living in Central Texas, we’re so lucky to have the coast, lakes and parks close enough to escape for a day or longer. We crave the outdoors and can weather any heat wave that comes our way. Recreation also plays a prominent role in our home design, as exhibited in the featured projects in this issue where comfort and outdoor livability take center stage. Walls of glass highlight specific landscaping focal points and outdoor seating in Darwin Harrison’s personal home — not to mention the fabulous glass-enclosed breakfast area, while two separate courtyards provide privacy for entertaining in Ed Urbanek’s and Lori Caldwell’s home design. For Candid Roger’s clients, a 1:1 ratio of exterior and interior living spaces creates the unplugged environment they were desiring. In two projects, one by FAB Architecture and Texas Construction Company and another by Yellow Door Design and Dick Clark + Associates, an urban setting didn’t stop them from creating multiple levels of outdoor living that range from Zen-like sitting areas to dining terraces to rooftop living rooms. When an Austin family decided to build a second home at our beautiful coast, Butter Lutz Interior Design created a lush and comfy seaside retreat that awaits them after spending hours along the beach. For more summertime fun, try accessorizing with a palette inspired by sea grasses, or designing an outdoor room with wood patio furniture that will last for decades. To make your daytripping a luxurious outing, or to simply enjoy year-round in your own backyard, a number of portable outdoor gadgets range from tabletop pizza ovens to a traveling bar. Or daytrip over to Fredericksburg and beyond for a day of wine tasting and grape stomping. It’s all about summer, and I hope you spend it making memories.
Trisha Doucette
On The Cover: When designer Darwin Harrison set out to build his own home, he incorporated a diverse selection of materials accented with personal and collected art. Page 26 12 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
TIMELESS INTERIORS
WE MOVED! Please visit us at our new showroom in
LAKEWAY
S pe c i a l i z ing i n Wood, Tile, Quartz, Natural Stone, Granite and Carpet ELEGANT DESIGNS, BEAUTIFUL DECOR The Timeless Interiors philosophy is as timeless as our products: To provide our customers the highest level of service, the most excellent technical and design assistance, and the best product quality at the most competitive pricing. From precision fabrication to expert installation, our staff has the experience and technical know-how to deliver your job. From spectacular backsplash designs, countertops, fireplace surrounds or flooring, Timeless Interiors offers a one-stop shop for all your interior/exterior surface needs. Specializing in quartz, granite, tile and other natural materials, we provide a level of expertise and service matched by none. Our beautiful new showroom is located in Lakeway. Stop by today for inspiration or call for an appointment.
1110 RR 620 South | Lakeway, TX 78734 | 512-835-8453 w w w. t i m e l e s s i n t e r i o r s t x . c o m
Austin-San Antonio
www.homedesigndecormag.com
JUNE/JULY 2018
VOL. 13 | NO. 3 Publisher Louis Doucette Editor Trisha Doucette
Contributing Editors Martha Bizzell - NARI San Antonio Writers Claudia Alarcón, Julie Catalano, Mauri Elbel, Angela Rabke Photography Dror Baldinger, Paul Bardagjy, Island Visual Images, Mark Menjivar, Matthew Niemann Architectural Publicist Diane Purcell – Dianepurcell.com Advertising Sales Sandy Weatherford, Gerry Lair, Janis Maxymof, Janet Sandbach, Madeleine Justice Business Manager Vicki Schroder Design and Production Tim Shaw – The Shaw Creative – theshawcreative.com Printing and Direct Mail SmithPrint Phone 512.385.4663, Austin - 210.410.0014, San Antonio Address 10036 Saxet Drive / Boerne, Texas 78006 President Mark Herrmann Urban Home Publishing Email: louisd@homedesigndecormag.com Website: www.homedesigndecormag.com Home Design & Decor Magazine Austin-San Antonio is published by Big City Publications, LLC. Advertising rates available upon request. All rights reserved by copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent from publisher. Every effort is made to assure accuracy of the information contained herein. However, the publisher cannot guarantee such accuracy. Advertising is subject to errors, omissions and or other changes without notice. Mention of any product or service does not constitute endorsement from Home Design & Decor Magazine. The information contained in this publication is deemed reliable from third party sources, but not guaranteed. Home Design & Decor Magazine does not act as an agent for any of the advertisers in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified remodeling, home furnishings or home improvement firm based on your own selection criteria. Home Design & Decor Magazine, does not act as an agent for any of the realtors or builders in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified realtor to assist you in your new home purchase. Home Design & Decor Magazine will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that is a violation of the Fair Housing Act. All real estate advertising in Home Design & Decor Magazine, is subject to the Fair Housing Act that states “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.”
© Copyright 2018 by Home Design & Decor Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
Interior Design
Luxury Remodeling
New Construction
2018 National Winner, NARI Coty Awards Residential Kitchen ($30,000 to $60,000) 2018 Regional NARI Coty Awards Best Kitchen Remodel in Two Price Categories
2017 NARI Buzz Awards Best Kitchen Design & Best Bath Design
2017 ASID Pinnacle of Design Awards Best Bathroom Design (over $35,000) — Remodeling Category
havendesignandconstruction.com
(210) 996-9494
dwell The people, places and things that elevate your home and living.
Everly Pendant / Nora Lounge Chair / www.palecek.com
Lifestyle Hello, Summer!
Market What’s The Difference?
Palette Sea Oats
Profile Heidi Feliz-Grimm
Page 20
Page 22
Page 23
Page 24
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
19
lifestyle | outdoor
, o l l he
THE UUNI PRO
! R E M M U S By Claudia
Alarcón
In today’s world in which technology rules, it would be easy to
consider picnics and family camping outings as relics of simpler, bygone days, but nothing could be further from the truth. Today’s technology has expanded our opportunities to spend time outdoors in full comfort. There are many gadgets and accessories that make for luxurious summer picnicking and ‘glamping’ whether at the lake, on the beach or anywhere you want to enjoy the comforts of home with a side of fresh air, toes in the sand and starry nights. 20 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
TABLETOP PIZZA OVEN
The Uuni Pro tabletop oven is the ultimate tool for your outdoor cooking needs. It’s fueled with wood kindling as well as charcoal, reaching temperatures of 932˚F in just 20 minutes. It takes only 60 seconds to cook a 16-inch pizza, and you can also roast meats, fish, vegetables, bake bread and more. Fire it up in your backyard, at your favorite campsite or at the beach! www.uuni.net
WILLIAMS-SONOMA® WICKER PICNIC BASKET
In a classic French-inspired design, the woven willow basket holds everything you need to host an elegant picnic for four, including porcelain plates, handblown wine glasses, linens and serving essentials for food, wine and coffee. An insulated cooler and wine duffel keep food and beverages cold, while thermal mugs are perfect for soup or hot drinks. Oui, s’il vous plait! www.williams-sonoma.com VICTORY™ PICNIC BLANKET
IAL DRINK CLUB,” THE 2018 OFFIC “TOWN LAKE YACHT
OF AUSTIN
PORTABLE BAR
The Madison Wooden Tabletop Bar Tool Set features 19 indispensable stainless-steel tools ranging from a mixing glass to a muddler, jigger, cutting board and even garnish picks, housed in a cherry-stained acacia wood storage box with a pull-out drawer. Now, you can make craft cocktails like this award-winning recipe for the 2018 Official Drink of Austin (see Arts & Culture Spotlight, page 65, for more details) anywhere you please. www.kegworks.com
VICTORY™ PICNIC BLANKET
STARGAZE™ RECLINER LUXURY CHAIR
Finally, a camping chair designed to allow the swinging motion of a hammock, with no hanging required! Since it’s suspended on an engineered aluminum frame, it works on any surface and features a pulley system that allows you to lay back or sit up. It’s truly portable, lightweight and breathable, and includes pockets for a beverage and media. www.nemoequipment.com
ET
CNIC BASK
WICKER PI
MIX IT YOURSELF TOWN LAKE YACHT CLUB
The 2018 Official Drink of Austin, www.austinfoodwinealliance.org .75oz Cynar 70 .75oz Italicus Rosolio .5oz Waterloo Gin .5oz Strawberry Preserves (a carton of strawberries cooked down in a 2:1 simple syrup, strain out solids; or muddle fresh strawberries with .5oz of simple syrup.) .25oz Lemon Juice .25oz Lime Juice 2 slices of orange (muddled) Build all ingredients in a shaker tin with 2 muddled orange slices. Strain over crushed ice, top with Topo Chico, and garnish with a mint sprig, half a strawberry and an orange slice.
This high-end blanket is perfect for beaches, picnics, concerts or the floor of your tent. Its flannel top is padded for comfort, while the waterproof bottom resists dirt, sand and water. It features a nifty privacy pocket to store personal items that can be flipped underneath the blanket for security at the beach or park. It also has corner loops to keep it anchored and integrated straps and carry handle. www.nemoequipment.com
WIRELESS PROJECTOR
PORTABLE FOLDING FIRE PIT
PORTABLE
WIRELESS PROJECTOR
STARGAZE™ RECLINER LUXURY CHAIR JUNE / JULY 2018
The PIQS Virtual Touch Projector allows you to project anything practically anywhere with perfect clarity, even while camping. Unlike flat screen televisions, it can easily be moved outdoors to project on your backyard wall or rooftop deck and control it all from your phone. www.piqs-store.com
|
FOLDING
FIRE
PIT
This polished copper fire bowl is as practical as it is handsome; perfect for all your outdoor adventures from tailgating to camping. The stand folds for easy transport in its custom carry bag, and it also includes a spark screen and lift tool to prevent accidents. www.hayneedle.com HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
21
market | patio furniture
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Special thanks to Outside in Style
Wood patio furniture, with its substantial silhouettes, pleasing finishes and easy to maintain surfaces, can turn an outdoor room into a stylish escape and endure for decades with proper care. There are many choices on the market, all comparable in style and durability, and it just takes a little research to determine which is best for your lifestyle.
BARLOW TYRIE LINEAR SOFA SET
JENSEN TOPAZ SOFA SET
JENSEN TIVOLI SOFA SET
TEAK
IPÉ
ROBLE
Originally from Asia, Teak is now also farmed on regulated plantations in the Americas.
Found in areas throughout Central and South America, some of the strongest Ipé comes from Eastern Bolivia.
Like Ipé, Roble is also prominent in Eastern Bolivia as well as other South American countries and has been popular in Europe for decades.
Naturally chocolate brown when new, Ipé will develop a silver patina from sun and weather exposure.
Roble is light brown with a goldish cast, making it easy to stain, but it also ages beautifully to a medium gray.
Of the three, Ipé’s original deep brown is the easiest to maintain with recommended oils only once a year, but natural oils in Ipé provide protection from the weather and insects without additional sealers.
To maintain Roble’s golden hue, oiling twice a year is recommended.
Ipé is one of the hardest woods — more than twice as strong as Teak and almost double in weight — and provides up to 50 years of outdoor service. It will also resist flames and sink in water.
Roble trees are particularly large, allowing for wide board cuttings with strength equal to Teak. Their outdoor lifespan is also in line with Teak at 25 years or more.
ORIGIN
FINISH Teak’s original honey brown shade will weather to a light taupe.
MAINTENANCE While most Teak is allowed to age gracefully, it requires more attention if maintaining the original color is desired, with regular oiling throughout the year. Its natural oils make it termite resistant.
THINGS TO CONSIDER Mature Teak can take up to 80 years to grow. Demand has resulted in young Teak being harvested, which is not as strong or durable as old-growth. However, cultivated (or plantation) Teak performs on par with old-growth Teak. Responsibly harvested Teak can withstand the outdoors for more than 25 years.
COST
(Sofa, 2 Lounge Chairs, Coffee Table of comparable quality) $6,641, Barlow Tyrie Linear Sofa Set
$5,522, Jenson Topaz Sofa Set
PROTECTING THE FORESTS
$4,387, Jenson Tivoli Sofa Set
Established in 1993 to promote sustainable management of the world’s forests and well-being for the people who maintain them, the Forest Stewardship Council® is an independent, non-profit organization that has certified over 380 million acres of forest worldwide. A number of principles and criteria must be met to earn a FSC® certification, and it ensures products in the marketplace are responsibly harvested. Look for the 100% FSC® label when purchasing. 22 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
palette | sea oats
SEA OATS
Nothing says summer like seagrass waving in the ocean breeze. Understated and natural but totally mood-setting, it’s easy to update your home with a restful coastal palette, sans the kitsch. Sandy hues ranging from beige to light brown. Organic textures that will have you longing for a day at the shore. And a classic beachy vibe to last all summer long. Clockwise from top left: Willow Matelassé Organic Blanket / Woven in Portugal from organic cotton grown in India and organic linen grown France / www.coyuchi.com Dialogue, a collection of luxury woven textiles and fun digital prints with an elegant cohesion / www.fildoux.com Max Fine by Iris in Travertino / Large format porcelain slabs for indoor and outdoor use / www.alphagraniteaustin.com Kichler Outdoor Pendant / Olde bronze finish and natural wicker style globe shade, 16.50” t x 16.50” w / www.lightsfantastic.com Patrick Four Door Cabinet / Cane door fronts and brass hardware in pine or acacia, 68”w X 32”h X 20”d / www.worlds-away.com Ivete Floor Lamp / Square Carrara marble base and goldplated brass leaves / www.essentialhome.eu Kalahari in Savanna / Wool and Sisal from Fibreworks® / www.bensoncarpets.com Capistrano Outdoor Daybed / Hand-wrapped resin mimics rattan and all-weather fabric stands up nicely to the elements, 79.5” w x 42.5” d x 32” h / www.serenaandlily.com JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
23
profile | design board
HEIDI FELIZ-GRIMM LEAD INTERIOR DESIGNER AT MARTHA O’HARA INTERIORS Outdoor spaces are exciting to design because there are so many elements to consider – from selecting outdoor-minded products to maximizing views, or simply creating comfort for all times of day. This incredible outdoor courtyard sets the tone for this Spanish-style home. Positioned near the home’s entrance, the design needed to be thoughtful and impactful since it’s the first thing you see. This room is also fully exposed to the elements – a design challenge that required outdoor rated products and fabrics that are AV tested and mildew resident. My goal was for the design to look settled within the authentic Spanish exterior, and to blend with the home’s fresh transitional feel. For me, this is the sweet spot of design: layering materials and finishes to blend effortlessly into a cohesive space that’s comfortable and finished.
WWW.LEXINGTON.COM
WWW.PALECEK.COM
DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS SOFA WITH TEAK SLATS - Because you can see the back of the sofa as you walk toward the home, the sofa needed an eye-catching silhouette. The teak slats pick up on the room’s casual, clean lines. WWW.LEXINGTON.COM
TEAK CHAIRS - For a cohesive feel, we selected two teak chairs but this time in a wider scale to fill the space and vary our design. PATINA LOOK - Our client was very comfortable with living materials – like teak and stone – that patina over time. We wanted organic feeling materials to ground the space.
WWW.CHRISTOPHERFARRCLOTH.COM WWW.PALECEK.COM
STOOLS - While our design centered on clean lines, we also made sure to layer materials while sticking to our client’s preference for neutral and organic colors. The stone stools introduced a new material that remained visually resting. GEOMETRIC TABLE - We chose a black cocktail table to coordinate with the home’s black windows and doors, and selected a bold geometric pattern for visual interest. 24 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
WWW.DASHANDALBERT.ANNIESELKE.COM
JUNE / JULY 2018
WWW.SUMMERCLASSICS.COM
HOME DESIGN
ED URBANEK DESIGNS, OMNI CUSTOM HOMES, LORI CALDWELL DESIGNS, PHOTO BY MATTHEW NIEMANN
Cutting Edge
Dream Home
A Cabin In The Country
Page 26
Page 34
Page 42
Coastal Comfort
Urban Treehouse
Living It Up
Page 48
Page 56
Page 58
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
25
CUTTING EDGE
By Julie Catalano Photography by Paul Bardagjy
Austin designer, photographer and writer Darwin Harrison wanted a home where he could indulge his passion for form, space, colors and textures against a rock-solid backdrop. So he designed and built one.
28 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
O
wner of Darwin Harrison Design in Austin, Harrison knew from the start which element would dominate among a crowd of favorites. “I have always been drawn to materials that have strong presence; materials that look good but just as importantly feel good and age well,” he says. “Stone and rammed earth were high on that list from day one.” Wanting a limestone that fit into the neighborhood (“but at the same time was not exactly like all the other Hill Country limestones”) Harrison used TexaStone Quarries in Garden City for large roughback blocks for the front facade, and A.J. Brauer Stone in Jarrell for large scale blocks thicker in width, ideal for the impressive freestanding curving wall along the driveway. Inside, the cut stone wall in the living area sets the tone for Harrison’s design vision of balancing clean and elegant with warm and comfortable. Here, the classic gable shape of the
exterior is reflected in the soaring ceiling, where Douglas fir (“one of my favorite woods”) is used for the rafters; reclaimed oak for the horizontal deck of the ceiling is also used for the flooring for continuity. The large sectional with chaise, chairs and ottoman are by Minotti, from Smink(Dallas). All interior walls are painted Simply White from Benjamin Moore, “a clean, bright, museum-like white for the artwork.” Harrison and his partner Robert agreed on the monochromatic paint scheme: “We didn’t want a lot of colors that would detract from the diverse palette of materials..” The home’s interior layout, he explains, “was dictated by the trees, so we split up the volumes to create courtyards.” Three of them, in fact. The indoor/outdoor connection was essential in the striking 3,200-square-foot structure, and nowhere is that more evident than in the “glass cube” breakfast area, where “it feels like you’re sitting in a park,” says Har-
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
29
rison, who designed the antique heart pine and aluminum table that was fabricated by Wells Mason of Ironwood Studios in Coupland and sits on a floor of Lueders 16x40 limestone planks. Another strong outdoor connection is seen in the long hallway that provides the design elements of order and rhythm that Harrison employs. He is amused by some of the reactions the 102-foot-long space evokes. “One visitor said, ‘I’m just not sure about this hallway,’” he recalls. Upon closer look, however, details emerge that actually break up the journey: parts of the smooth polished concrete floor are juxtaposed with sec30 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
tions featuring a fine sandpaper feel from a burnishing agent. Views through the hallway’s expanse of glass include Harrison’s beloved — and big — block of stone from TexaStone Quarries. “It was a discarded piece they considered junk, but I looked at it and had to have it. It’s a perfect bench.” Lighting is almost a third inhabitant of the house and a life form all its own. With assistance from Jill Klores, a talented lighting designer in Dallas, numerous dramatic and creative lighting features and fixtures were placed throughout, starting with colorful Bocci globes by the front door, customizable in type of bulb, color and cord length. A James Turrell-inspired
JUNE / JULY 2018
skylight with changing LED colors is off the sitting room; a hidden backlight in the living area “throws light all the way up the wall and really highlights the texture of the stone;” and a much-loved and very quirky chandelier by famed designer Ingo Maurer made the trip from the couple’s former home to its new shining spot over the breakfast table. “It comes with parchment paper sketches that you hang from the clips. We changed them out with architectural photos.” Photography by Lubbock native Harrison is a big part of the couple’s art collection. A sizable montage of buildings from his hometown region graces the hallway after its time JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
31
on display at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts. Intriguing surfaces and surprising details are everywhere, lending depth and interest and sparking conversations about history, art and design. The redwood wall behind the vanity in the master dressing area is shousugi-ban, Japanese burned wood sourced at Delta Millworks of Austin. “It’s a traditional technique originally designed to make the wood more resistant to termites and other insects.” Burned wood is also used on the back wall of the master bedroom and its nearby sliding barn door. The master bath countertop is post-consumer recycled paper from Richlite, stacked and soaked with a phenolic resin, then heated and pressurized. “It’s amazing,” says Harrison. “It’s hard and crazy dense and you can’t believe how heavy it is, but it’s really beautiful and durable.” The range of materials in the house is something Harrison is especially proud of. “It’s really diverse, and I think it all works together,” he says, pointing out the nostalgia-inducing Roman red brick in the sitting room, aluminum shingles with a sculpted pattern and exposed steel columns. Harrison’s studio is a special haven, replete with CDs, books, collectibles and a poignant reminder from long ago: his very own LEGO® bricks from childhood, now embedded forever in the rammed earth wall. “They are what got me interested in architecture and design and putting things together.” Although the home was originally designed to encourage entertaining, the couple finds that it has become more of a quiet retreat and welcoming sanctuary, what Harrison calls his dream home. “Now when we travel, we can’t wait to get back here.” u DESIGNER Darwin Harrison 806-543-8302 www.darwin-harrison.com 32 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR DESIGN custom homes • lofts spec homes • commercial Stephanie J. Villavicencio, ASID
512.443.3200
Texas Registered Interior Designer
www.bellavillads.com
(512) 785-7226 www.adamscompany.biz
DREAM HOME By Angela Rabke Photography by Matthew Niemann
The rolling Hill Country landscape between San Antonio and Boerne has seen tremendous growth over the last several years, and the development of this peaceful area has provided opportunities for many families to build their dream homes. 34 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
O
“
ur vision for our home was to create an inviting, modern space that was functional for our family and entertaining,” says homeowner Allison Rush. The Rush family chose Omni Custom Homes for the task, who connected them with Ed Urbanek of Ed Urbanek Designs for floor plans and elevations. Urbanek focuses each of his designs around his clients’ individual preferences and lifestyles, and he immediately began bringing their vision to life. “They wanted a contemporary home, and they have a re-
JUNE / JULY 2018
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
35
ally nice site with beautiful Hill Country views,” Ed shares. The site required a linear, wide plan, so Urbanek developed a sprawling 120-foot-wide, one-story modern ranch solution. With 4,700 square feet, the home includes plenty of space for the busy family with four bedrooms, outdoor entertainment areas and a separate pool house/casita. The front elevation is balanced on either end with columns of windows that provide natural light throughout the home while softening the stone and stucco exterior. But Urbanek had other plans, “There is 36 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
something almost spiritual when the ceiling rises up to view the life-giving light from the heavens.” Knowing that the Rush family enjoys hosting friends and family at home, Urbanek created multiple connections to outdoor spaces throughout the U-shaped courtyard design, which includes both the main house and pool house. The pool house does double duty as a guest casita and includes an outdoor kitchen with a walk-up bar, and an indoor/outdoor seating area with pocket doors. The game room and living room, both locat-
JUNE / JULY 2018
ed in the main house, also connect directly to the pool area. Durable and attractive Ipé wood decking seamlessly connects the entire space, and colorful pool lighting adds to the ambience. Another courtyard welcomes the family at the entrance to the home, with the combination of stone walls and a contemporary wood slat fence that provide a buffer from ambient street noise and frames the Mondrian-inspired glass entry doors. Following the idea of creating multiple connections between interior and exterior, this courtyard also connects to the study on one side and the laundry room on the other and serves as a cheerful outdoor respite while providing privacy from the street. With ample seating and a dramatic open fireplace, it’s the perfect place to settle in on chilly Hill Country nights. Even in spaces that do not directly connect to the outdoors, clever placement of windows provides plenty of natural light and interesting views. Lori Caldwell was the Interior Designer for the project and focused on bringing warmth to the modern home through a palette of cool greys and navy accents. “People often think of modern homes as cold, but they can be very warm with creativity and good design,” she says. The exterior of the home is very rectilinear, and mixes stucco, stone and wood with a metal roof, all in colors that are carried throughout the interior spaces. Oxidized steel is incorporated into the landscaping and adds warm rust colors to the palette, which are
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
37
picked up in artwork and exterior fabrics. Modern materials are carried through to the interior. Caldwell incorporated happy pops of color, interesting fabrics, graphic wall paper and the homeowners’ extensive art collection to provide texture and visual interest all throughout the home. “The lines are very clean, straight and modern — we enjoyed working with the palette and bringing it to life with the materials that we selected,” she says. Many of the selections are high-shine, such as the modern acrylic cabinets, lamp accents, chrome plumbing and polished concrete floors. Then there are several noteworthy design details: a freestanding bath rub in the master suite is accented with a velvety blue accent wall that also provides privacy for the shower area; a dramatic arrangement of wall 38 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
39
art over a metallic nature-inspired table immediately greets guests upon entry to the home; and a crystalline wine pantry between the dining area and the adjacent kitchen displays the couple’s collection of vintages and provides a sense of separation between the two spaces. The kitchen is clean and functional with shining porcelain subway tiles and gleaming white cabinets against one wall, while an adjacent wall features a bank of warm wood cabinets. Generous storage allows clutter to be tucked away, and the space is flooded with natural light thanks to the light monitor overhead. When asked about a favorite part of the home, the owner touches on both function and form. “We have so many favorite things! One of them is the functionality. We don’t have any wasted space. We also love how the game room and living room open up to the outside living area and pool to create one large entertaining space. Another feature we love is the front courtyard: this allows for large windows in the front of the house that provide natural light throughout.” 40 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
“This is probably one of my most enjoyable designs to date,” shares Urbanek. “It was just really fun designing it and working with a couple who has great taste. Lori really brought it to life with the design choices she made. It is a wonderful environment for a family to grow up in, and everyone came together to craft the Rush family’s home and dream.” The happy family could not agree more. “We didn’t really have any surprises. We are so happy with how our home turned out. It’s beautiful, unique and exactly what we had envisioned,” says Mrs. Rush. u HOME DESIGNER Ed Urbanek Designs 210-698-5422 | www.edurbanekdesigns.com BUILDER Omni Custom Homes 210-616-2454 INTERIOR DESIGNER Lori Caldwell Designs 210-408-2870 | www.loricaldwelldesigns.com
JUNE / JULY 2018
REMODELER’S ADVICE
HAVEN DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION AND NARI SAN ANTONIO WIN BIG! San Antonio shined at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Spring Meeting where contractors from seven regions nationwide vied for the highest industry award recognitions. TOM MILLER - PRESIDENT Winners were selected based NARI NATIONAL, JANA & ARMANDO VALDEZ on problem solving, functionalHAVEN DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ity, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation, degree of difficulty and entry presentation. Haven Design & Construction, members of NARI San Antonio, won the National CotY Award for Residential Kitchen, $30,000-$60,000, in a competition that equates to over $123 million worth of remodeling projects. The husband and wife team’s combined construction and design expertise include Armando Valdez, Licensed Contractor, and Jana Valdez, Allied ASID. Learn more at www.havendesignandconstruction.com. Also at the meeting, NARI San Antonio was awarded the 2018 Chapter Excellence Award, presented to only one of 48 chapters nationwide. NARI San Antonio, which is made up of contractors and suppliers who are held to a strict Code of Ethics, and must be licensed and accountable, has tripled their membership in three years. They participate in community improvement events with Habitat for Humanity and historical neighborhood renovations with the City of Historical Preservation such as Rehabarama. u To find a professional remodeler in San Antonio, visit www.remodelsanantonio.org. HAVEN DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION’S WINNING KITCHEN
ALPHA GRANITE & TILE is proud to bring you MaxFine, the original large format porcelain panels. MaxFine opens up a new dimension in horizontal and vertical surfaces. This technology allows you to cover large areas with minimal grout lines and the most beautiful colors and designs in the world. Bring the veins of Calacatta Marble to life with the durability of MaxFine Porcelain Panels. Gone are the days of stains and the need of sealers to protect your marble surfaces. MaxFine brings it all to life! CALL US TODAY FOR MORE INFO. 915 W. Howard Ln., Austin, TX 78753 512-834-8746
www. al phagr ani teaus ti n .c o m
A CABIN IN THE COUNTRY By Mauri Elbel Photography by Mark Menjivar
When a San Antonio-based family wants to escape the bustle of the big city and reconnect with nature and each other, they retreat to their simple cabin tucked in the woods.
Perched on a rural site adjacent to the Sabinal River near the pint-sized community of Utopia, Texas, the 875-square-foot raw and rustic cabin designed by Candid Rogers Architect serves as a place of thoughtful repose for a professional couple with two grown children. From the beginning, Rogers’ clients envisioned a no-fuss, tranquil retreat where they could go to get away from it all. His design created a serene place that lives up to the meaning of the nearby town’s name, providing his clients with a little slice of paradise in the Hill Country. 44 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
W
“
e took this idea and distilled the concept down to the essence of what the experience wants to be about and we worked to celebrate that simplicity of the idea,” says Rogers of the modest two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin featuring a kitchen and living space with a fireplace. Escaping the hectic urban life the couple is accustomed to and getting back to the basics is achieved as soon as they navigate the gravel road leading to the barn, which serves as the power station on the property equipped with a 10 kilowatt photovoltaic array with back up battery storage. Once there, the vehicle is parked and all worries are abandoned as the off-the-grid experience continues down a long gravel path deeper into the oak forested landscape and further away from the technological world dwindling in the distance. The design of the entrance is all part of the experience Rogers sought to achieve.
“The entry is via a 300-foot-long soft gravel mulched path, which has a subtle sound when traversed,” says Rogers. “At the end of the gravel path, one ascends an 80-foot-long steel ramp, which is quiet and ascends into the tree canopies. Upon reaching the cabin floor deck, the landscape becomes the stage and the qualities of the experience are enhanced by the space.” The cabin’s entry, accessed via a ramp of grate material, also allows for occasional floodwaters to flow through below. Visitors are welcomed with an expansive covered deck, which allows views out over the landscape to the river beyond, while the interior offers framed views into the forested landscape. Rogers describes the design as simple, tactile and experiential. Materials and finishes are minimalistic and durable –– the exterior is clad in cedar siding while stained pine siding and cork flooring warms and brightens the interiors. Rustic and raw throughout, the cabin features unique touches of color and thoughtful details. For example, a repurposed Chambers
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
45
stove in the kitchen is reminiscent of the old stove the client learned to cook on as a child and river rock sourced from the site was used to form the fireplace. Minimal pops of color, like the canary yellow shelving in the kitchen, were selected to accent and distinguish space and use. “Our work seeks to express the inherent qualities of materiality,” says Rogers. “We like to express materials for how they want to be used. The tactile expression is important to us.” The porch deck is of equal square footage as the interior cabin space to create a 1:1 relationship between the interior and exterior. A screened porch on the end of the cabin allows for dining and sleeping in nature’s breezes while a large sliding door can be opened to extend the outdoor experience into the kitchen. A bright red hammock suspended from the steel columns on the upper deck beneath the shade of the soaring roof provides the perfect vantage point for taking in the framed vistas of the surrounding riverine landscape. “At the end of the deck is the antique outdoor bathtub with an open view into the landscape and to the celestial sky above,” adds Rogers. Shaded by the expansive corrugated metal roof, the stained cedar siding cabin is as green as its surroundings, solar pow46 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
ered and designed for cross ventilation. Positioned parallel to the river, Rogers designed the modest structure to be elevated lightly above ground on steel columns, imparting minimal disturbance to the site. The single slope shed roof opens to the east, catching cool summer breezes passing through the river valley and shading the naturally ventilated rooms from the afternoon summer sun. From any area of the cabin, guests soak in the landscape, listen to the natural fauna and feel the sun and the breeze. As nighttime approaches, a bath can be drawn in the outdoor tub for a bath under the sky. The soft ambient lighting and minimal occupation of the area heighten the dark skies for celestial viewing, says Rogers. Out here, he says guests are encouraged to embrace the voluntary escape and be seduced by the natural environment, being renewed in the process. “You are lifted to the level of the birds, a place of prospect and refuge, while nature flows under, above and around,” says Rogers. u ARCHITECT Candid Rogers Architect 210-444-1051 | www.candidrogers.com
JUNE / JULY 2018
COASTAL COMFORT By Julie Catalano Photography by Island Visual Images 48 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
Who hasn’t dreamed of a beachfront getaway? Who hasn’t dreamed of having friends with a beachfront getaway? An Austin couple turned their retirement dreams into reality with a coastal retreat for themselves, their family and lots of friends. Probably even more friends by now.
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
49
T
wo years ago, the homeowners had a simple wish list for their ultimate seaside abode: comfortable, airy, abundant nearby amenities and walkability. “We wanted understated elegance; relaxed, unfussy and fully functional,” says the wife. In other words, the opposite of a predictable dwelling that “screamed beach.” No screaming here. The 3,050-square-foot, five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath home was aptly dubbed “Coast Awhile” — the perfect laid-back moniker for a three-level sanctuary at Cinnamon Shore, a New Urbanism-style planned community on Mustang Island. Houston-based architect Melton Henry and Port Aransas custom builder Keystone were tapped to bring the couple’s vision to life on the Texas Gulf Coast, just three hours from their Austin home and minutes from Corpus Christi.
50 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
Cinnamon Shore principal designer Amy Lutz of Austin-based Butter Lutz Interiors — together with her design team of Titus Muncy and Rachel James — carefully crafted the interior with durability and easy living in mind. For the great room with living, dining and kitchen areas, she chose a sectional, two swivel chairs and one club-style chair from a local store. “The fabrics weren’t pretreated but we had them post-treated,” she says, “so we had fabric protection on anything that’s going to be in a space with wet people and wine.” In the kitchen, a prominent color scheme emerged with a blue ceramic glazed Daltile backsplash, a kitchen island painted in Sherwin-Williams® Interesting Aqua, and cabinetry in Sherwin-Williams® Alabaster. A double pantry underneath the staircase provides convenient storage for staples. In the dining area, an oak table from Four Hands Furniture in Austin is illuminated by JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
51
an Amelia Wood Bead chandelier from Pottery Barn® that mimics the look of dripping pearls. Artwork by Dallas artist Scott Kerr hangs nearby. COREtec® laminate flooring offers a warm balance to white walls and the soaring white vaulted ceiling bathed in natural light. The five king bedrooms, bunk areas and a pullout sofa provide generous space to accommodate up to 19, especially handy for family gatherings with the couple’s children and grandchildren. “All the beds are really comfortable,” says Lutz, “with bedding that is simple but layered, with fun pillows.” Two bunk areas serve as a landing place for kids and their own sleep-and-play spaces, with plenty of built-ins for games, toys and books. On the top floor, the bunk room is adjacent to a common recreation area with a television atop a console of reclaimed wood. Downstairs, a “bunk hall” puts younger guests closer to the action (and more easily supervised), nestled in soothing creams and muted blues in bedding from Restoration Hardware®. One of the features that made this project special, says Lutz, was their use of wallpaper by York® Wallcoverings. “We love wallpaper. We used it in the glass front cabinets in the kitchen, in the second bedroom on the main floor and in the upstairs guest room.” Each bedroom has either wallpaper, a feature wall or a shiplap wall, using color coordination with their adjacent bathrooms “so that every room has its own personality.” In one bedroom, shades of navy to light blue are in everything from the bedding and headboard to batik-style art and Surya rug, accented by a whitewashed bedside table from ELK Group International. One “happy accident” occurred when a space originally slated for a walk-in attic on the third floor instead became a colorful king bedroom with hot pink and turquoise accents, a cabinet closet and whimsical popsicle-style art work. “It made more sense to have another bedroom rather than storage,” says Lutz. What’s a beach house without a prime view of the beach? Guests can dine on the second story balcony and then make their way up the spiral staircase to the trellis-covered observa52 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
tion deck one flight up. There, Adirondack-style chairs at bar height clear the railing for unobstructed views of the beach, the Cinnamon Shore boardwalk and spectacular Gulf Coast sunsets. The chairs, rockers and chaise are made of Polywood®, a sturdy yet comfortable all-weather wood alternative perfect for standing up to seaside elements of salt and sand. The entry off the large front pine-floored porch features a grasscloth-covered nailhead-studded console table. Brick pavers lead up to the two-car garage in the back of the house with room for the all-important golf cart, ideal for getting around pedestrian-friendly Cinnamon Shore to enjoy its many offerings like the community pool, dining, shopping, bonfires on the beach and fun activities such as family movie nights or live music on the lawn in Town Center. “The overall aesthetic we tried to provide for the client is that it’s beachy but not kitschy,” says Lutz. “We tried to do more of a contemporary spin on the traditional beach house, without using a bunch of birds and seashells. It has welcoming spaces for everybody, not just to sleep but to hang out and plenty of room for kids to play. “More than anything, I’m happy that our clients are so happy with the finished project, and they feel like we had a really fun time doing this,” adds Lutz. “We were all together at Cinnamon Shore for several days during the install. That’s part of our full service — we wash every sheet, make every bed so the place is ready immediately afterwards.” Ready for homeowners, family and all those new friends and neighbors to come on in and Coast Awhile at Cinnamon Shore. u DESIGN Butter Lutz Interior Design 512-514-1602 | www.butterlutz.com
JUNE / JULY 2018
POOL FEATURES
Featured Advertiser Editorial
MAKING WAVES By Claudia Alarcón Photography courtesy of Keith Zars Pools
I
f you are looking to build a pool this summer or enhance your existing one, there are many features to consider that go beyond the traditional pool/spa combo. Today’s hot trends in pool design include deck jets, bubblers, scuppers, water and fire elements, waterfalls, sheer descents, sun shelves and beach entries. Since most of us may be unfamiliar with these trending pool terms, we have asked the experts for guidance and advice. Depending on the effect you wish to create, the right water feature will add sound, tranquility, excitement, elegance or a natural touch to your backyard retreat. “Different features range in aesthetic, size, material and overall feel,” says April Powell, Marketing Manager with Keith Zars Pools.
54 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
Water features are very elegant and can make any pool look luxurious. They vary in complexity, ranging from small openings found at the edge of the pool to more elaborate design motifs that are incorporated into the poolscape. Deck jets are a simple option that add a high-end look. Jets shoot a narrow stream of water from the deck or edge into the pool. For a more contemporary approach, a sheer descent is a sheet of water that flows down from a thin, flattened spillway. These features create a cooling effect as well as a soothing sound. Scuppers are another type of small water feature characterized by small openings or slots that channel water back to the pool. They are usually made up of a small ledge that allows water to fall down into the pool.
JUNE / JULY 2018
You can also expand the surrounding landscape by incorporating a water bowl or fire water bowl element. Copper is popular right now. One of the most popular swimming pool features are waterfalls, commonly used for lagoon-style or tropical-themed swimming pools.
for contemporary and minimalist pool designs. Grotto waterfalls also allow swimmers to sit inside the waterfall, which kids just love. If you have a spa, you can connect it to your swimming pool through a spillway. This is highly suitable if your spa is at a raised level from your swimming pool,
While sheer descents or scuppers are accents to a pool’s design, waterfalls are usually statement pieces and include an auditory element. Waterfall designs vary depending on the homeowner’s taste and can range from simple rock structures to more complex ones that include landscaping and multiple levels constructed to look like natural rock formations. You can also opt for a weeping wall, in which the water trickles down the side of the stones to give a weeping effect. Sheer or grotto waterfalls are appropriate if you want to achieve the waterfall effect with a more modern vibe. Compared to the rock waterfall, these have a more subdued and simple design that is perfect
because you can create an effect where the water is transferred gracefully from one area to another. Just as with waterfalls, there are many styles of spillways, from the standard cascading design to 360-degree spillways. Materials may include pebbles, tile or stone. Pool owners whose families include small children, elderly or handicapped JUNE / JULY 2018
|
members should consider a sun shelf — a flat shallow area usually at one end of the pool. Sun shelves are also known as Baja shelves, tanning shelves or tanning ledges, and they are an ideal spot to lounge near the pool because they allow you to be in and out of the water at the same time. “Basically, a sun shelf allows you to relax in the water without having to maneuver yourself on a raft or pool float,” says Powell. “It’s common for people to add features like bubblers or purchase water resistant lounge chairs to place on the shelf. Pool owners sometimes opt to use natural rock or flagstone instead of the plaster for the shelf.” A bubbler, by the way, is a fountain-like feature that shoots water up out of the pool floor and falls back on itself, “like a mini geyser,” says Powell. Beach entries, also known as zero entry pools, are another hot trend in today’s pool designs. They are visually striking and great for those with disabilities or elderly people who can’t do steps. “We have the capabilities to design beach entries,” says Powell, adding that sometimes they may include a step or two. “People can also include bubblers on these. Something to think about: our plaster must remain underwater at all times, so with beach entries we can use rock on the decking for part of the slope into the pool, then transition into plaster at the drop off.” Whether you seek a tropical hideaway with a natural look, a sleek modern retreat or a lavish sanctuary with a Tuscan feel, the experts at Keith Zars Pools have everything you need to cool you off in style this summer — and for many to come. u KEITH ZARS POOLS 210-494-0800 | www.keithzarspools.com
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
55
design | outdoor
U R BA N
TREEHOUSE By Angela Rabke Photography by Dror Baldinger
A
ustin is well known for its outdoor-friendly vibe. Trails, parks and pools abound, but sometimes it can be a challenge to carve outdoor living spaces into urban lots. The Bouldin Creek project by Patrick Ousey and Pam Chandler, the husband and wife team of Austin’s FAB Architecture, beautifully integrates five functional outdoor living spaces among the trees, giving the homeowners privacy and a connection to nature that is surprising in such an urban area. “Our clients are long-time Austinites and lived in the hills west of Austin. They really wanted to be close to downtown but were accustomed to beautiful natural views. When we saw the lot, we knew that we could get the views if we went vertical enough,” says Chandler. Each level of the home provides a different connection to nature, with five outdoor
56 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
spaces that each has a different personality and function. Upon arrival, you enter an intimate lower level courtyard that features a monumental concrete retaining wall. The wall, which was already on the property, provides visual continuity through the adjacent guest suite. Although the home is in a busy area, the courtyard, through placement and landscape, provides an immediate and quiet respite from nearby traffic. Each level of the home provides a unique connection to the surrounding trees. As you move upward from the entry courtyard into the living area, the main terrace welcomes you. Sliding doors move aside, extending the living area to the outdoors. Planters pull the landscape up, providing a buffer to the street below and obscuring the railings as the plantings mature. Lueders limestone pavers are situated on pedestals and mask a drainage mat underneath, where water is collected to basement cisterns for storage. Two additional balcony terraces of Ipé wood flank the master suite on the north and south sides. “As you come up the stairs, you see these defining oak trees on each side,” says Chandler. “It really gives you the sense that you are in a treehouse.” The terraces are peaceful extensions of the indoor spaces and are often the chosen spot for morning cof-
fee. Their locations amongst the tree branches did require some creativity on the part of FAB Architecture and the homebuilder, Royce Flournoy of Texas Construction Company. “The project was intricate in terms of the site and the vegetation,” says Flournoy. As the framing went up, the team realized that some railing would need to be modified to accommodate a particularly close branch, but happily made the modifications in order to preserve the tree canopy. The rooftop terrace truly maximizes the location with a dazzling panoramic view of downtown Austin. The clients spend their winters in Texas, so the perch includes cool-weather amenities like a hot tub and a fireplace, which were carefully lifted by crane. Modern, yet comfortable white seating discreetly compliments the striking views as friends gather. The project ultimately proves that you don’t need to sacrifice interface with nature in urban spaces. “We are really proud that we were able to work within all the boundaries that the site provided. It was, at times, a tough nut but we were able to capitalize on the entire site and on every aspect of the experience as the house stacks up,” says Chandler. u
JUNE / JULY 2018
ARCHITECT FAB Architecture 512-469-0775 | www.fabarchitecture.com BUILDER Texas Construction Company 512-451-8050 | www.txconstruct.com |
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
57
design | outdoor
LIVING
IT UP
By Julie Catalano Photography by Dror Baldinger
The joys of outdoor living aren’t only for sprawling ranch homes or big backyards. This vintage Austin redo breaks the mold by going up instead of out.
O
n a compact lot less than one-tenth of an acre, a 1987 two-story became a 21st century three-story with the addition of a top floor master bedroom and an adjacent deck. But the homeowners — whose goal was to maximize the outstanding views from the 2,540-square-foot home — wanted more. “The rooftop deck that we added is actually on top of the master,” says Kim Power, AIA, partner at architectural firm Dick Clark + Associates of Austin. The firm did a complete exterior renovation for previous clients in 2007. The current owners desired “more entertaining space for guests. The rooftop deck is an extra special spot. A real wow factor.” It also required extra special access, so Power designed open riser stairs that echoed materials and design accents used elsewhere in the home to tie it all together. Outdoor living is essential to the empty nester couple who had moved from a larger property but still wanted the ability to move freely inside and out. The second-story balcony features an outdoor dining area off the main indoor living area,
58 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
with decking made of Ipé (pronounced e-pay) wood, “the same really stable tropical hardwood used on the home’s exterior walls,” says Power. Designer Vickee Byrum of Yellow Door Design in Austin adds that the balcony dining area “takes the place of a formal dining room indoors.” Working with landscape designer Bill Roberts, she also crafted sophisticated outdoor spaces off the second floor for conversation, relaxing and “a place for the husband to play his guitar.” Lueders limestone, hand cut on site in three colors, provide a neutral base for Byrum’s “less is more” approach, with one seating area featuring Fibonacci Ava lounge chairs from Janus et Cie in outdoor woven rattan, side table from Dedon and a striking Marubachi fountain from Stone Forest carved from solid blocks of basalt. Two Dedon Mbrace lounge chairs with ottoman offer a second seating area at the other end of the same patio. “Because of the small square footage, everything placed there is very intentional, to make sure it’s going to be used. It’s very Zen.” For those non-Zen moments, the rooftop deck is unques-
tionably the shining star, and Byrum had fun with it. “I chose a gorgeous coral fabric from Dedon for the outdoor cushions and pillows on the custom-built U-shaped furniture toward the back of the deck.” She added two more Fibonacci chairs “for additional ambiance and seating.” The best place to be for a view from the top. u ARCHITECT Dick Clark + Associates 512-472-4980 | www.dcarch.com DESIGNER Yellow Door Design 512-423-5230 | www.yellowdoordesign.com
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
59
Named
TOP TEXAS WINERY and
O P E N D A I LY FALL CREEK VINEYARDS AT TOW Tasting Room: 325-379-5361
TOP 101 WINERIES
FALL CREEK VINEYARDS IN DRIFTWOOD Tasting Room: 512-858-4050
in USA
w w w. f c v. c o m
Bringing Our Love of Great Wine and Great Times,
from Our Family to Yours
(325) 372 - 6071
Come Visit Our Tasting Room! 302 E Wallace Street San Saba, Texas 76877
oldmanscarycellars.com
department | fabulous finds
GRAPE CREEK VINEYARD
WINE COUNTRY By Julie Catalano
Texas is home to the second largest grape growing region in the U.S. How did we get so lucky? One word: terroir.
BECKER VINEYARDS PHOTO BY BLAKE MISTICH 62 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
The Texas Hill Country has more than 45 wineries and vineyards, dozens more nearby, and dozens more on the way. Named a top ten wine destination by Wine Enthusiast in 2014, the region — second only to Napa — is exploding in wine production, wine events, wine tasting, wine clubs, wine tours and more, with no end in sight. You could say it all started in Texas, although farther west. Spanish missionaries established the first vineyard in North America near El Paso. European settlers brought grapevine cuttings with them, growing the industry through the 1800s. In Fredericksburg — considered the epicenter of the Hill Country wine region — original settlers made wine from native mustang grapes that grew in the wild.
JUNE / JULY 2018
The diverse and unique terroir (the combination of all environmental factors that affect a crop) of the Hill Country and its dry and sunny climate and well-draining soil is particularly friendly to certain grapes. Popular varietals include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Malbec, Chardonnay, Blanc du Bois, Pinot Grigio, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and others. According to the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association, the state has eight federally recognized American Viticultural (grape growing) Areas (AVA), including the Hill Country, Fredericksburg, and nearby Bell Mountain, the first appellation in Texas, established in 1986. The Hill Country AVA was established in 1990 by Fall Creek Vineyards at Tow, the result of a trip to France in 1973 by cofounders Ed and Susan Auler. “Ed noticed that the region, with its reddish-brown soil and craggy hills, looked a lot like the Hill Country,” recalls Susan. Their first planting of FrenchAmerican hybrids in 1975 makes them the oldest Hill Country winery. “There was endless potential here because of the microclimates around every bend, and complex, mineral-rich soil that changes even within vineyards. It’s all about the dirt; it’s all about the terroir.” “Our 100-acre vineyard has four fairly distinct soil types, from sandy loam to a dark clay,” says Brian Heath, who bought Grape Creek Vineyards in Fredericksburg in 2006. To prepare an area for planting, they dig test pits, take soil samples and send them to labs. “They’ll tell us what soil types we have, which helps to tell us what we need to do differently.” No matter how diligent the growers, harvests can be ruined by the dreaded late freeze. “It’s the biggest threat,” says Heath. “It can freeze off the buds.” Hail and too much rain are two more problems. Nichole Bendele, public relations and winery tasting room coordinator at Becker Vineyards, concurs: “Grapevines like drier conditions. Our climate is considered semi-arid. If it is too wet, you run into fungus issues and root rot.” Becker was established in 1992 in Stonewall with a first harvest in 1995. Pontotoc Vineyard and Winery owner Carl Money grows all of their wine grapes in Pontotoc (pop. 103), about 60 miles north of Fredericksburg in the Llano Uplift. Money says soil and geography are key: “Red sandy soil allows water to get off your root system quickly. My vineyard sits at 1,700 feet elevation, the highest point in the valley, so we never lose our grapes to late freezes because they settle around it. Finally, to the north and northwest of our farm there are 3,000-foot bluffs, which protect the town and the vineyard.” Wine events are plentiful and fun at Hill Country wineries — everything from live music and floral arrangement classes
to food and wine pairings. Wine trails are popular draws: Wine Road 290 near Fredericksburg features 16 wineries, including Chisolm Trail Winery, Pedernales Cellars and Torre di Pietra. Or visit 53 wineries on the Texas FALL CREEK VINEYARDS Wine Trail, including Bending Branch Winery in Comfort, Old Man Scary Cellars in San Saba and William Chris Vineyards in Hye. Grape stomps provide wine lovers and others with the unique experience of crushing grapes with their feet at festivals that feature music, food and educational presentations. Becker Vineyards in Stonewall will hold its 22nd Annual Grape Stomp on August 25-26 and September 1-2, 2018. Fall Creek Vineyards at Tow hosts their legendary 29th Annual Grape Stomp and Harvest Festival on August 25. Participants at the Dry Comal Creek Vineyards and Winery in New Braunfels on August 5 can have their names on the label of the 2018 Foot Pressed Red Table Wine. Yum! u For more information, www.visitfredericksburgtx.com, www.wineroad290.com.
MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN
BELLA VISTA RANCH
Grapes and olives have been quite a pair since ancient times, depicted in tandem in great books of history and religion, and in vineyards in Southern Europe and Northern Africa. “It’s not unusual to find them together,” says Jack Dougherty, founder and owner of Bella Vista Ranch in Wimberley where 1,200 olive trees co-exist with Bella Vista Cellars, “but it is definitely unusual to find them here.” Like wine grapes, conditions and climate create an olivefriendly environment, especially calcareous soil, longer growing days and a longer growing season. Additionally, the trees grow year-round, and the roots are continuously developing. According to the the Texas Association of Olive Oil (TXAOO) established in Walburg in 2016, Texas accounts for a very small — but growing — percentage of olive oil production. Aficionados sometimes have to see it for themselves, says Dougherty. “We’ve had visitors from France and Italy who came because they couldn’t believe we were growing olive trees in Texas.”
JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
63
design
SPOTLIGHT Austin Infill Builders Raise $10,000 to pay for 3,400 AISD Student Lunches “Builders Care Austin,” a non-profit organization formed by the infill building community, raised $10,000 to help pay off the lunch debts of Austin ISD students who are allowed to buy their lunches on credit. As of April 20, the total student lunch debt for AISD was about $31,000. This effort was spearheaded by Ed Ishmael — a local lawyer and developer who builds houses on Austin’s east side. “While our members are already contributing to our city in various ways, we wanted to find a way, as a group, to give back to this City we all love and to the communities in which we build. Paying off student lunch debt seemed perfect for our first effort. No matter how amazing Austin ISD is, if a kid at school is hungry, they’re not going to learn,” states Mr. Ishmael. Builders Care Austin hopes to eventually help retire the remaining debt, and possibly make this an annual effort.
Container Store Makes Dorm Shopping Easy And Affordable
Always the go-to for storage and home organization, the Container Store offers perfect solutions for keeping things tidy in tight college dorm situations. Summer is the best time to shop and receive 20 percent off your purchases. Simply sign up to receive the 20%-Off College offer starting June 1 at www.containerstore.com/college. The offer can be used an unlimited number of times during the July 20-August 20 promotion window toward any items. 64 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
Martel Expands Product Line With Rehme Steel
Martel Windows & Doors has just begun working with one of Austin’s premiere custom steel window and door manufacturers. At locally-owned Rehme Steel Windows & Doors, everything is proudly handcrafted in Texas by Texans. “The elegance and craftsmanship that Rehme provides is directly in line with what we like to offer our clients here at Martel. We believe there is a shift in the market towards people desiring statement pieces within their home and now Martel has another amazing way to offer this to clients,” says Sabrina Miller, Marketing Director for Martel. www.martelwd.com
Laura Gottesman and Interior Designer Kristen Nix Partner to Create Gottesman Nix, Market-Ready Homes
Laura Gottesman, owner of Gottesman Residential, and Kristen Nix, owner of Kristen Nix Interiors, announce their alliance to provide staging, furnishing, cosmetic renovations and styling services for luxury homes. This service will be offered as an add-on for Gottesman Residential clients as a way to maximize the home’s value for sellers and provide a vision for the buyers. “Buyers want to walk in and envision how they will live in a space,” says Kristen Nix. “We are providing curated living spaces and furnishing homes the way the buyer aspires to live.” www.gottesmannix.com
JUNE / JULY 2018
arts and culture
SPOTLIGHT
HAMILTON to anchor 2018–2019 Broadway in San Antonio Season at Majestic Theatre
Alas de México (Wings of Mexico)
With a three-week run in May, the best way to guarantee tickets to HAMILTON is to purchase a season subscription for the 2018-2019 season. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInSanAntonio.com or call 800-215-SHOW (7469). But that’s just part of the outstanding season line-up: Wicked: September 26 - October 14, 2018 School of Rock: November 6-11, 2018 The Phantom of the Opera: December 6-16, 2018 Waitress: January 8-13, 2019 Anastasia: February 5-10, 2019 Fiddler on the Roof: March 26-31, 2019 Hamilton: May 7-26, 2019 The Play That Goes Wrong: June 18-23, 2019
New Editions 2018 Flatbed Press, Austin June 5 to August 25, 2018 For nearly 30 years, Flatbed Press has invited artists to their print studio to create “multiple original” works of art, which are then exhibited and sold in their gallery. The editions are created on manual printing presses using artist-made printing plates, or “matrices,” with each being inked and pulled by hand. They encompass many different print processes such as etching from metal plates, lithography from stone and relief prints from wood. The New Editions 2018 features etchings, woodcuts, lithographs, monotypes and monoprints by eleven artists published over the last year. www.flatbedpress.com
A new public art piece in Hemisfair, located at the base of the Tower of the Americas, was recently installed as a Tricentennial gift from México City and renowned Mexican sculptor Jorge Marín. The new piece invites viewers to become part of the artwork by standing on a raised pedestal between two large bronze wings and posing for a photo. “Wings are an international symbol for freedom and liberty, and Alas de México is an impressive Tricentennial gift from Mexico City and from master sculptor, Jorge Marín. We are very thankful,” said San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. The sculpture was installed by San Antonio’s Wanderlust Ironworks who specialize in fabrication services of public art, decorative ironwork and custom furniture for residential and commercial properties. www.wanderlustironworks.com
2018 Official Drink of Austin Announced! Austin Food & Wine Alliance is excited to announce that the 2018 Official Drink of Austin winner is the bar team from Juniper led by Ryan Foster, who claimed the title with the “Town Lake Yacht Club” featuring Cynar 70, Italicus Rosolio and Waterloo Gin with strawberry preserves, flavors of lemon and lime and topped with slices of orange. The Official Drink of Austin competition shines a spotlight on Austin’s talented bartending community and requires the drink makers use at least one local ingredient. Austin Food & Wine Alliance hosts engaging culinary events throughout the year to raise funds for culinary grants, the nation’s first grant program based on culinary innovation and community giveback. See page 21 for the official recipe! www.austinfoodwinealliance.org.
Left: Electric Baloneyland, Tom Huck, Woodcut, 89.5 x 120” Right: Tell Me Where It Hurts, Richard Armendariz, Woodcut, 47.5 x 36.5” JUNE / JULY 2018
|
HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO
65
ADVERTISER INDEX
ASSOCIATIONS
INTERIOR DESIGN
POOLS
Austin NARI www.austinnari.org 512-375-2601
Bella Villa Design www.bellavillads.com 512-443-3200
Anthony Sylvan Pools www.loveourpools.com 888-495-1537
NARI San Antonio www.remodelsanantonio.org 210-826-7200
Haven Design & Construction www.havendesignandconstruction.com 210-996-9494
Keith Zars Pools www.keithzarspools.com 210-494-0800
CUSTOM CABINETRY & DESIGN
KITCHEN & BATH
KingWood Fine Cabinetry www.kingwoodcabinets.com 830-990-0565
Cosentino Center Austin www.northamericacosentinocenter.com 512-386-7791
Liquid Assets www.liquidassets-pools.com Austin: 512-444-5444 San Antonio: 210-680-7665
CUSTOM GLASS WORK
Expressions Home Gallery www.expressionshomegallery.com Austin: 512-454-4526 San Antonio: 210-349-7878
Wimberley Glassworks www.wgw.com 512-393-3316
CUSTOM METAL WORK Architectural Metal Solutions/ Magnolia Doors www.ams-gr.com 210-366-0490
GRANITE, STONE & FLOORING Alpha Granite & Tile www.alphagraniteaustin.com 512-834-8746 Timeless Interiors www.timelessinteriorstx.com 512-835-8453
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery www.fergusonshowrooms.com Austin: 512-445-5140 San Antonio: 210-344-3013
Old Man Scary Cellars www.oldmanscarycellars.com 325-372-6071
LIGHTING
WINDOWS & DOORS
Lights Fantastic www.lightsfantastic.com 512-452-9511
The Front Door Company www.thefrontdoorco.com Austin: 512-459-9034 San Antonio: 210-340-3141
MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES Cinnamon Shore www.cinnamonshore.com 361-786-0772
HOME REMODELING Adams Company www.adamscompany.biz 512-785-7226
Esperanza www.myesperanza.com 512-260-2066
Boerne Kitchens and Baths www.boernekitchensandbaths.com 830-446-1506
OUTDOOR LIVING
Haven Design & Construction www.havendesignandconstruction.com 210-996-9494
VINEYARDS Fall Creek Vineyards www.fcv.com Driftwood: 512-858-4050 Tow: 325-379-5361
Acme Brick Austin: brick.com/aus 512-244-7600 San Antonio: brick.com/sat 210-493-2612
66 HOME DESIGN & DECOR AUSTIN-SAN ANTONIO |
JUNE / JULY 2018
Premier Windows & Doors www.premierwindowsatx.com 512-553-4102
WINDOW COVERINGS & AWNINGS Austintatious Blinds and Shutters www.austintatiousblinds.com 512-608-0302 Texas Sun & Shade www.txsunandshade.com 512-402-0990
Austintatious Blinds and Shutters 12918 Shops Pkwy Ste 700 Bee Caves, Texas 78738 M-F: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sun: Closed 512-608-0302 www.austintatiousshutters.com Call now for a free consultation or come by our state-of-the-art showroom!