HDD Charlotte August/September 2022

THE GAYLORD WATERJET MOSAIC BY

BATH FURNITURE & BESPOKE FAUCETRY

ADDITION TO ANY BATHROOM

Faucet: Addison by O’Neil Ruppel with ADT6 handles in Polished Chrome

Formerly

YOU’RE INVITED TO VISIT OUR NEW SOUTH END SHOWROOM.

St.

INTERIOR

TYLER INTERIORS

SMURAK

BIG

EGG GRILLS

ACCESSORIES OUTDOOR FURNITURE + UMBRELLAS OUTDOOR RUGS, PILLOWS, POUFS + MORE

The Designers Marketplace

38 PUSHING BOUNDARIES

50 MAKEOVER MAGIC

60 MIDDLE GROUND

DUSTIN PECK;

BY LAURA SUMRAK

20 26

DWELL

20 MARKET

We’ve assembled the latest and greatest collaborations and collections to elevate the most utilized rooms in the house.

26 STYLE

Three local designers share their decidedly unique kitchen designs along with pro tips, dos and don’ts, and more.

32 PALETTE

The romantic and delightfully dainty hue of dusty rose is a petal-like pop of pretty that does not disappoint.

34 DESIGN BOARD

Designer Marie Cloud finds her biggest design inspirations when she travels, effortlessly blending her client’s personality with exterior influences.

RESOURCES

70 REINVENTING HOME

Clark & Clark Interiors renovates a family’s kitchen during the pandemic, creating a perfectly styled space and maximizing their quality of life.

74 INSPIRED INDULGENCE

Kohler’s two newest collections create the ultimate showering experience with relaxation and luxury in mind.

78 A WARM TRANSFORMATION

Designer Karen Kettler shares how adding elements of warmth and texture can cozy up an all-white kitchen.

82 HEART AND SOUL

Allen Tate Realtors discuss the latest trends in kitchens and baths—both revered as the heart and soul of the home.

CONTRIBUTORS

86 ROOM SERVICE

Beth Conant-Keim

One Room to Another

INNOVATIVE DESIGN

Courtney Vaughn Healthy Hydration

SPOTLIGHT

FROM THE EDITOR

ARTS + CULTURE SPOTLIGHT

GRAFF;

PHOTOGRAHY BY STACEY VAN BERKEL

W

We both love to cook. Blake happily spends hours planning and cooking healthy meals for her family and coming up with new and joyful ways to eat clean. I spent many holidays sidled up to my mom in the kitchen helping her cook old family recipes and watching closely as she churned out comfort food that brought smiles to our faces. It’s something that brings a warm satisfaction now as I cook my own versions of her recipes. Ask anyone, and they will tell you that the heart of the home is undeniably the kitchen. Gathering for family meals, late-night conversations over milk and cookies, or morning cuddles while sipping coffee, the kitchen will inevitably be where we spend many of our most precious moments.

It’s no wonder that we devote a whole issue to kitchens and bathrooms—two rooms that no family can do without. While kitchens bring us together, bathrooms can give us time away—a respite, a moment to steel ourselves for a tough conversation, or even the only time you devote to self-care. This issue not only features our usual stunning homes with impeccable interiors, but it also showcases unique styles, the latest products, and inspiring ideas for the two most utilized spaces in your home.

We are sad to say goodbye to former editor-in-chief Ashley Hotham Cox and wish her well on her next adventure. We plan to continue to foster the community and impeccable style she created, and with our combined thirteen years of experience with Home Design & Decor

Blake Miller and Anne Marie Ashley Co-Editors-In-Chief

PORTRAIT: LAUREN GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY; ON THE COVER: DUSTIN PECK.

ON THE COVER: This kitchen by designer Traci Zeller stuns with its sleek modern lines and classic color palette (page 60).

CO-EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

ANNE MARIE ASHLEY

MILLER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SIMONEAU

ART DIRECTOR

MANN

PUBLISHERS

MICHAEL MAYER

SUSAN V. MAYER

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER OONAGH MURRAY

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

KEMPER

SALES

FERN HOWERIN CHERYL NELSON

WRITERS

BRANDY WOODS SNOW CHRISTINA SPRATT SPENCER

CONTRIBUTORS

BETH CONANT-KEIM COURTNEY VAUGHN

PHOTOGRAPHY

MICHAEL BLEVINS

PECK

SUMRAK

PHONE

This bite

The Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Showroom is a creative and collaborative space.

Chef demonstrations

LATEST & GREATEST

ON THE HUNT FOR HIGH DESIGN, THESE COLLABORATIONS AND NEW COLLECTIONS FOR THE MOST UTILZED ROOMS DESERVE A SPOT ON THE LIST.

PRODUCED BY ASHLEY HOTHAM COX WRITTEN BY ANNE MARIE ASHLEY

FASHION FORWARD

Luxury fashion house Maison Marie Saint Pierre, known for its graphic and linear effects and opulent fabrics, has partnered with award-winning faucet manufacturer BARIL to create high-end hardware that epitomizes high design and quality functionality. The Marie collection takes the personalization of faucets to a whole new level. To celebrate the thirty-fifth anniversary of each company, they created this durable and art-forward collection featuring geodesic shapes found in nature. Each piece is unique, available in different formats and finishes, and created with flexible installation in mind. barildesign.com.

CONCRETE EVIDENCE

Sink manufacturer Kast Concrete Basins has launched Alto, its firstever tapware collection. A global leader in concrete basins, Kast is taking bathroom design to a whole new territory with the line, which combines concrete color and texture with contemporary forms and finishes. Each set will be available in brushed brass, soft black, and softwhite metal finishes, with the option to choose any of its twenty-eight concrete colors for handle elements. kastconcretebasins.com.

ROLLING STONES

Designer Cara Woodhouse is known for creating design that results in unexpected artistry balanced by chic earth elements. Many of her projects have featured products from ABC Stone, so when the company approached her for collaboration on a new collection, the natural response was an eager agreement. The Classic Rock Collection features nine pieces in five marble colorways, exclusively made of the finest quality Italian cubic blocks of stone. Inspired by the movement and whimsy of rock music juxtaposed with the literal immovability of stone, the collection is full of curvaceous forms and intense natural stone design, something that has always drawn Woodhouse inward. abcworldwidestone.com.

FROM TOP RIGHT: COURTESY OF BARIL, COURTESY OF ABC STONE, COURTESY OF KAST

SHIP SHAPE

Known for producing distinctive kitchen faucets, faucet suites, and accessories, American manufacturer Waterstone Faucets has launched a new collection, its first foray into bath accessories.

The Argonaut Collection calls back to Waterstone’s naval roots with one-of-a-kind pieces that honor steampunk styles and maritime design while imparting a truly sophisticated atmosphere that can sometimes escape the nautical aesthetic. themajesticbath.com.

SHOOT the MOON

Winner of the prestigious Merit Award for the Interior Design Best of Year Awards in Bath, the Luna faucet, designed by veteran bath design house GRAFF, has a singular design and mirror-like finish that makes it a truly unique foray into innovative futuristic design. Utilizing old-world craftsmanship and new-age technology, Luna is inspired by the shape of a crescent moon and aims to inspire a sense of calm in the privacy of your space. It comes in several finishes, including polished chrome, vintage brushed brass, and matte black. birddecorativehardware.com.

LOVE & TILE

Husband-and-wife duo Kat Hutter and Roger Lee are known for creating brightly hued ceramics with interesting and often geometric designs infused into the surfaces. Roger's handthrown, high-fired stoneware is embellished with Kat's playful patterns, and the result is highly functional art—which is why a collaboration with chic tile manufacturers Pratt + Larson made the ultimate sense. The Kat + Roger Collection views like a desert dream, with a down-to-earth ten-color palette and three sizes of field tile. Integrate a bespoke arc element to create a personalized pattern, go for high-contrast combos to pay homage to Hutter and Lee, or create a more delicate look with field tile. renaissancetileandbath.com.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF GRAFF, COURTESY OF WATERSTONE FAUCETS, COURTESY OF PRATT + LARSON

GENERATION NEXT

The next generation of kitchen ovens has arrived with Monogram’s 30-inch Smart Flush Hearth Oven. Building on the genius of the first ventless all-electric home oven created by Monogram, the oven features an integrated ventilation system with active smoke filtering and offers the same electric ease of use as its predecessor. With a bottom element that can reach up to 1,300 degrees and a top that can get to 800 degrees, the masterful design allows for flawless cooking and a sleek and futuristic look in your kitchen. plazaappliancemart.com.

SHORT ORDER

French culinary and design enthusiasts alike have long praised the extraordinary beauty and functionality of La Cornue ranges. Timeless style and refined taste have been the benchmark of each new offering, and falling in line ef fortlessly is the CornuFé Series range. For those who want the unmatched functionality and look of La Cornue but in a smaller size, the CornuFé is perfect. With a choice of twelve colorful finishes, three trims, and powerful gas burner or ceramic glass induction range-top options, the CornuFé delights in per sonalization as much as it does in performance. queencityonline.com.

SPHERES of INFLUENCE

America’s premier designer and manufacturer of mosaics, New Ravenna, has introduced the Biome collection. The new line features fifteen mosaic designs, handcrafted from stone and Glazed BasaltoTM with accents of shell and irides cent and metallic glazes. New Ravenna deconstructed the five biomes known to earth in order to explore the variety of life and terrain found in these disparate climates. “When palette and pattern overlap, we can completely change the perception of a design; a pattern that was based on a fossil from the desert now reads as a meadow flower in white and green or a falling snowflake in white and gray,” says New Ravenna’s creative director Cean Irminger. A beautiful way to describe the truly versatile nature of this creation. renaissancetileandbath.com

FROTHING at the MOUTH

From refrigerators and ranges to toasters and espresso machines, the Café line from GE has impressed from day one, and the Café Affetto Au tomatic Espresso Machine is no exception. Coffee lovers can rejoice over the Café Affetto’s ability to automatically grind and brew barista-level espresso drinks in just ninety seconds. The SmartHQ app can be synced with the machine so you can enjoy your favorite beverages at the exact temperature and strength you prefer every time. And if you’re looking for a creamier consistency, the froth feature heats milk to create everything from frothy foam for cap puccinos to dense microfoam for lattes. williams-sonoma.com.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF MONOGRAM, COURTESY OF NEW RAVENNA, COURTESY OF CAFÉ, COURTESY OF LA CORNUE

DUSTY

REIMAGINED STYLE

THREE TOP LOCAL DESIGNERS DISH ABOUT GREAT KITCHEN DESIGN AND WHAT TO AVOID WHEN DESIGNING YOUR OWN.

PRODUCED BY ASHLEY HOTHAM COX TEXT BY BLAKE MILLER

MODERN UPDATE

Designer Lisa Sherry was tasked with a complete gut renova tion of her longtime-clients’ High Point kitchen. Built in the early 2000s, the kitchen needed a major revamp. “They came to me for my signature style: clean and modern, unfussy but soulful, real and au thentic,” the designer says. “This style happens to align with their epicurean tastes, too—plant-based, real food, and clean-eating focused, locally sourced, heathy, and entirely delicious.”

What She Did

ADDED ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS The sculpted plaster hood provides a stunning architectural detail to an otherwise clean, streamlined kitchen.

“It also adds subtle texture and a layer of interest, which I love,” says Sherry.

REMAINED NATURAL “It’s an opendoor policy in this home, and that means dogs, too,” says Sherry of the honed limestone flooring that runs throughout the kitchen. “The flooring was specified for beauty and endur ance. It will wear and age beautifully.”

WENT ORGANIC In lieu of a traditional tile backsplash, Sherry opted for a honed limestone with a charming irregular finish and an inherently organic vibe.

Meet the Designer LISA SHERRY

KITCHEN SPLURGE

“If I must pick one, I’ll say panel-ready appliances. They integrate seamlessly with cab inetry and elevate the space. I love it when someone asks, ‘Where’s the dishwasher?’ It makes my day.”

BEST DECORATING TIP

“Keep an eye—and hand—on texture. Sleek surfaces are natural in a kitchen. Add texture through tile, flooring, countertops, lighting, and textiles. Layers of texture are much like aromatic spices in a delicious recipe: they simply emerge and engage the senses.”

KITCHEN DO

“Kitchen islands can be divisive! I am in the proisland camp. More often than not, I specify a working island of some variety. But custom kitchens, which are my expertise, are all about doing what’s right for the space. This is a galley kitchen, ten-by-twenty. An island would be a roadblock, restricting the flow of this organic and fluid space.”

KITCHEN DON'T

“Don’t be afraid to gut and start from scratch. Regardless of square footage, the best kitchen designs are balletic, meaning that things flow. My clients often ask, ‘What would you do here if you could do anything?’ When you let go of the old floor plan, new ideas percolate.”

BY STACEY VAN BERKEL

KITCHEN FLIP

Designer Shannon Loeffler first came to Kyong Agapiou to inquire about appliances for her kitchen, which she was updating. The South Charlotte home had seen a few updates, but the kitchen needed an overhaul. Agapiou, a lead designer with Design Centers International (DCI), was ready to help. “It was a basic kitchen without a lot of char acter and closed off from the rest of the house,” she says.

“Small upgrades were made in the early ’90s to include green granite and appliances.” With the renovation, the kitchen was transformed into an Old English hub with a modern twist.

What She Did

KEPT IT LOW As in cabinetry. In lieu of upper cabinets, Agapiou opted instead for large floor-to-ceiling armoire-like cabinetry that provides ample storage but functions like a piece of furniture.

SKIPPED OUTLETS To keep the overall aes thetic clean and modern, the kitchen is devoid of visible outlets on the backsplash so as not to interrupt the tile detail.

DITCHED SYMMETRY The space was pur posely designed asymmetrically so the homeowner could use her interior design skills to create balance in the room with decorative display items.

Meet the Designer KYONG AGAPIOU

KITCHEN SPLURGE

“The custom island was designed to be multifunc tional and to look like a piece of furniture. It is the showstopper of the room. The main faucet was also a splurge and was like adding a piece of jewelry that she can enjoy every day. It is understated but is an in credible piece that works well with the well-loved and lived-in look.”

BEST DECORATING TIP

“I love adding open shelving to allow homeowners to make the space more personal with art or items more meaningful to them and their family. The biggest mistake I see is when every inch of wall is covered by cabinetry storage.”

KITCHEN DO

“A must-have in every kitchen is a pullout wastebasket, which is hidden and placed in an area that is functional.”

KITCHEN DON’T

“Don’t try to do it yourself or try to save money by not working with a professional. It makes all the difference in the world when you invest in a great design. A professional will take the time to get to know you and your life style, and make it timeless, personal, and beautiful.”

KITCHEN COUTURE

When House of Nomad designers Berkeley Minkhorst and Kelley Lentini were commis sioned to give their clients’ kitchen a facelift, the layout was in place. The experienced designers were tasked with injecting per sonality into what was an otherwise all-over neutral space. The duo incorporated a vibrant, authentic style to the kitchen via new countertops, a custom marble hexagon backsplash from Renaissance Tile & Bath, Circa light fixtures, barstools, and a vintage runner from Shop House of Nomad. The result: a modern stunner where the homeowners can gather as a family and entertain seamlessly.

What They Did

LOW CUSTOMIZED IT “You will never regret splurging on quality custom cabinetry and a gorgeous countertop slab,” says Minkhorst. For this project, the marble for the tile was custom selected to complement the countertops, and “it's a favorite moment of ours, for sure!”

RELAXED THINGS The barstools by Palecek lend themselves to a laid-back style, which the designers carried throughout the home by using natural and woven materials.

POPPED SOME COLOR The nearly all-white kitchen needed a burst of energy. The de signers achieved this by adding a vintage Turkish runner.

Meet the Designer HOUSE OF NOMAD

KITCHEN SPLURGE

“Quality custom cabinetry and gorgeous countertops will never disappoint. Such big pieces of your kitchen design is worth the splurge,” says Minkhorst.

BEST DECORATING TIP

“Less is more. Kitchens can get cluttered and elements competitive,” explains Lentini. “Pick a grounding color to work around and then tie in those details through a pop in the tile, decor, etc. Lighting scale is also important to take into consideration. We love an oversized lighting moment if the scale is right!”

KITCHEN DO “A coffee bar!”

KITCHEN DON’T

“Don't stick to one color or material,” says Lentini. “White cabinets? Add a fun backsplash like this one! Give it personality that reflects you and your family. Also, never go too small in scale with lighting; it will get lost, and you never want that.”

The

Water Dispenser

PURSUIT of PINK

A SHADE SO DISCERNINGLY DAINTY AND DELIGHTFULLY QUAINT, DUSTY ROSE DOES NOT DISAPPOINT.

PRODUCED BY ASHLEY HOTHAM COX WRITTEN BY CHRISTINA SPRATT SPENCER

Like the dreamy, dim flash of blush before dusk gives way to dark, this romantic, rose-tinted hue holds the delicate depths of dove and lavender in its guise as does the fading exhale of a nostalgically idyllic day. A lithely lyric of lovely, this delightfully melodic note ever so gently casts a gracefully ambient glow, enveloping a veil of balmy and balletic refinement. Politely polished with mint, sage, and juniper, picturesque with parchment and abalone, and perfectly poised with the richness of mulberry and cadet tones, this petal-like pop of pretty is a classic cotillion waltz of color, supple and shadowy in its softness.

Vivian Howard & Haand Small Driftwood Vase in Buttermilk Pink / $55 / haand.us

Blush Daisy Suzani Pillow / $165–$240 / stfrank.com

Veneto Small Table Lamp by Kelly Wearstler for Generation Lighting / $280 / circalighting.com

Jodhpur in Coral Grasscloth by Alex Conroy Textiles / to the trade / thedesignsocialstudio.com

Laney Slipper Chair in Rattan, Rose Quartz / $960 / coleyhome.com

Comet Day Wool Rug /starting at $2,880 / therugcompany.com

Shy Boys Interior Paint / starting at $45 / backdrophome.com

Atlanta-based interior designer Suzanne Kasler employs a monochromatic range of pinks in her client's study, which is on display in Kasler's newest book, Edited Style, debuting September 20.

MARIE Cloud

Designer Marie Cloud tends to find her biggest design inspirations when she travels. “Currently, I’m really drawn to the boldness of boutique hotels and often find inspiration from travel and dream vacations,” says the owner and principal designer of Indigo Pruitt Design Studio. “Give me moody tones and luxe texture paired with some unexpected elements for a sure win of my heart. I’m inspired by history and experiences, so I love adding a fresh modern flair with timeless elements. Cultural touches help define this story telling aesthetic.” But Cloud’s inspiration always integrates her client’s personality, which she seamlessly blends with exterior influences. “My favorite part is adding personal touches and details that bring life into the design narrative,” she explains. “I’m inspired by spaces that embody the soul of its owner and the essence of what home means to them.”

LAURA

PUSHING BOUNDARIES

ONE FAMILY STEPS OUTSIDE THE TRADITIONAL BOX WITH THEIR MODERN HOME IN FORT MILL.

TEXT BY BLAKE MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA SUMRAK

The Krasnoffs wanted the living room to feel less like a family room and more like a hip hotel lobby where friends and family gather for cocktails and conversation. Kelly achieved this by adding pieces like the modern chandelier by Arteriors and the black-and-white chairs by Gabby, which are perfect for lounging and entertaining guests.

To set the tone for the home’s interior design, Kelly wrapped the entryway in a subtle but sophisticated wallpaper by Jennifer Latimer. “The wallpaper is who she is,” Kelly says. “She’s not somebody who would have a plain white foyer.” The hairon-hide bench is by Arteriors and the rug is by Jaipur Living. OPPOSITE : In the hallway leading from the dining room to the guest bedroom and bathroom, the chair from Noir doubles as seating and art. The lighting by Arteriors along with the mirror by Four Hands transforms the space into one that sparks conversation.

A

ALEX KRASNOFF WANTED SOMETHING DIFFERENT, so she and her husband scooped up a lot on a quiet cul-de-sac and began planning their custom home. They enlisted the help of architect Charles Michael Frusterio out of Birmingham, Alabama, and builder Linnane Homes to bring their dream home to fruition. “I wanted it to be different,” says Krasnoff of the home’s architecture and interior design. “I didn’t want the house to feel like it was built in 2022. I wanted some of the Old World feel but I also wanted it to be really modern

and contemporary.” To assist with the architectural plans and interior design, she called on designer Jacy Kelly to complete the home-build team.

“I fell in love with Alex the moment I met her,” Kelly says. “She’s so stylish and fun, very trusting and open minded, so I knew this would be a great project to work on.” The facade of the home was initially going to be white, but not one to follow the current trend, Krasnoff insisted on a black exterior—a German schmear over the brick giving the home a dramatic presence on

The kitchen was designed to be sophisticated and elevated, but also inviting. The all-black custom cabinetry with Rejuvenation hardware coupled with the honed marble counters creates a moody tone for the space, and the brick-ceiling detail adds dimension and warmth. The stools are from Gabby and the lanterns are from Currey & Company.

OPPOSITE: Krasnoff was adamant about not having an all-white kitchen, so Kelly wanted to do something bold but warm and inviting. The custom cabinetry was painted all black, but the countertops—a honed marble—and backsplash remained white to provide a touch of lightness to the space. A one-of-a-kind runner was added for a subtle dose of color.

the quiet street. “It was supposed to be a white exterior, but the entire neighborhood is white homes, so I said, ‘let’s go black and go the extreme opposite,’” Krasnoff says.

Inside, though, is where Krasnoff really wanted to focus her attention. “Jacy’s aesthetic is a lot of black and white, really edgy,” says the avid design lover. “But she also knew that I didn’t want to go quite that edgy. What she gathered from me was that I was really attracted to texture. As long as I had texture in different elements with some pops of color, I was happy.” For Kelly, it was a match made in heaven. “I love black and I would live in an allblack house if I could,” laughs the designer. “To have a client who was on board with black was really fun. Black grounds everything, and it’s timeless. You can paint an accent wall whatever color and it won’t last. But black is perfectly neutral with different metals and shades of gray and white.”

With that in mind, Kelly began pulling together design

The scullery needed to be more than a regular wet bar for the Krasnoffs. “It couldn’t just be about beer and wine in this space,” says Kelly, whose clients love to entertain. “It needed to spark excitement about what kind of cocktail they can create today.” The tile from The Tile Shop and honed granite counters provide the perfect backdrop for the glass and brass floating open shelves sourced by the builder. The chande lier is by Arteriors.

schemes for every room, each featuring a black-and-white base layered with organic textures, wood and metallic finishes, and natural hues to keep things warm and welcoming. “Alex wanted it all,” Kelly says. “She wanted all of the cool lighting, all of the wallpapers, really cool art and furniture. She wanted it to be something that when people walked in they were blown away by the interior design.”

In the primary bedroom, Kelly painted the tongue-andgroove ceiling black and added a stunning black chandelier by Arteriors, resulting in a dramatic, moody feel. She set the tone for the home’s elevated style in the foyer where wallpaper by

Jennifer Latimer doubles as artwork, creating a warm, inviting entry. One of the most alluring rooms is the scullery off the kitchen. There, floating brass and glass shelves sourced by the builder and a black backsplash from The Tile Shop combine to create a sophisticated bar area where the Krasnoffs can make drinks, gather, and entertain.

Because entertaining was a priority for the Krasnoffs, every room needed to function seamlessly for intimate dinners with friends and family. “Alex wanted the family room to feel less like a traditional family room and more like a hip hotel lobby where people are drawn in and want to sit and take it

The Krasnoffs love to host intimate dinner parties and wanted a dining room that was functional yet sophisticated. With their subtle design, the wallpaper and custom draperies by Jennifer Latimer provide interest to the room. Complementary pieces like the dining table by CFC, the sideboard by Noir, and the dining chairs by Worlds Away add a modern touch to the space. The chandelier by Arteriors is yet another stunning centerpiece.

Because the primary bedroom gets an abundance of natural light, Kelly saw it as an opportunity to be bold with the room’s design. To draw attention to the ceiling’s architecture, she stained the wood detail black while the walls remained white. The addition of blackand-white plaid curtains adds to the drama. The chandelier is by Arteriors. OPPOSITE: In the primary bathroom, the goal was to keep it sophisticated yet warm. The coupling of the black-and-white tile with the wood tile from The Tile Shop accomplished the warm modern aesthetic while the chandelier by Arteriors adds another level of interest to the space.

The guest bedroom is off the main living spaces, so Kelly wanted the room to be neutral but also impactful. The dramatic chandelier by Arteriors becomes the wow factor in the room while the four-poster bed by CFC and the nightstands by Worlds Away serve as complementary pieces. The bedding is by Pom Pom at Home. OPPOSITE: The guest bathroom is also the powder room, so the design had to be as elevated as the other spaces. The vertical placement of the Nain Negro tile coupled with smallscale hexagon tile complements the wallcovering by Livette’s Wallpaper.

all in,” Kelly says. “This space is very central to the first floor of the house, so the goal was to layer-in unexpected textures and a little more color than the rest of the house. She wanted her friends to hang out there and have cocktails instead of standing around the kitchen island, which is what traditionally happens.” A pair of black-and-white chairs by Gabby encourage conversation and lounging, and pieces like the Arteriors chandelier draw the eye up and spark talk about its unique shape and design.

Every inch of the home was carefully considered, with Kelly wanting to create an interesting moment around every corner. A hallway leading from the dining room to the guest bedroom and bathroom features a chair from Noir, a giant hand that

doubles as a piece of art. Coupled with an Arteriors chandelier and a mirror by Four Hands, this hallway could have been left untouched but instead become another conversation starter.

“Alex was an amazing client,” Kelly says. “She became a cheerleader for me when I was designing her home. I love the way this came together. I’m also really excited about this level of edgy design that’s coming to Fort Mill and Charlotte, that it’s not all Southern traditional.” For the Krasnoffs, it’s exactly what they envisioned when they first made the move. It’s something different from everything else. “Every time I drive up to my house, I have to pinch myself,” Krasnoff says. “It’s so insanely gorgeous and so different from anything else in the city. It’s exactly what we wanted.” u

Once an unused pass-through space, Robusto designed a living room that encourages relaxation and entertaining. A channeled upholstered sofa by Four Hands and a chandelier by Arteriors produce a rustic yet elegant look.

MAKEOVER MAGIC

Formerly a small dining area, the breakfast room now features a much larger dining table to accommodate larger groups of people. The table and leather chairs are by Four Hands, while the host chairs are by Gabby Home. The artwork is by Artists Guild of America. OPPOSITE: Not wanting the home to be completely devoid of color, Robusto incorporated a handful of neutral colors onto the walls in this basement home office while the furnishings remained neutral and textured. The chairs, ottoman, and leather rug are by Four Hands. The pillows are by Surya.

WHEN KERRI ROBUSTO’S FRIEND REACHED OUT TO

her in the middle of 2020, all she wanted was to find a new dining room table. “I had looked all over for a table and could not find it, or, if I did, it wouldn’t be available for ten to twelve months,” says the friend. “I’ve known Kerri for twenty-five years, so I knew I could reach out to her for help.” Robusto, a designer, did, in fact, help her friend find the table she wanted, and she got it within weeks of her request.

But as the friend’s mini-makeover of her Weddington home progressed, she continued calling on Robusto for help. “Until one

Wday I just said, ‘OK, wait, what are we going for here? What look are we trying to create,’” says the designer. “So we sat down and honed in on what she wanted to achieve.” And with that, that one farmhouse table snowballed into a whole-home renovation and interior makeover.

Built in 2003 by her clients, the custom home was stunning for its time. It had an elegant French-country aesthetic with an earthtone color palette, natural stone details, smaller, more intimate entertaining spaces, dark wood finishes, hardwood floors (that had yellowed over time), and faux painting nearly everywhere you

turned. But by 2020, the homeowners, who are empty nesters, had been bitten by the design bug and wanted to update the home and transform it into a space with a seamless, open floor plan with modern finishes and an updated color palette. “There was a lot of beige and lots of very heavy custom plaid and taffeta window treatments that were very nice, but they were just so heavy and dark,” Robusto says. “Plus, they entertain a lot, and those smaller, more intimate rooms were not conducive to the type of entertaining they do today. So we had to open and brighten things up.”

Robusto removed interior walls to reconfigure the main living area’s floor plan so that it was more open and seamless from room to room. The formal dining room was transformed into a larger family room ideal for entertaining several guests. Robusto removed a wall to open up the kitchen. Stacked stone details on columns and walls throughout the main living area and basement were stripped and wrapped in wood with a lighter, modern stain. Robusto didn’t stop there: she replaced the ornate iron scroll stair railings with a more modern option, and she swapped the kitchen counters and backsplash with a more contemporary palette. “To say it was a complete renovation top to bottom is an understatement,” Robusto laughs.

The interior design was truly spurred by Robusto’s client, who was willing to be more daring in some of her design choices. “She would find things and send me pictures, so I knew where her taste was going,” the designer explains. “We worked well together. I designed a plan for the dining room, for example, and showed her this fun, funky, over-the-top wallpaper that she’d either love or hate. And she loved it. So I was like, ‘OK, this is the vibe we’re going to go with.’ She’s bold and daring. But we definitely went more subtle in the main areas of the house with the family room and living room.” White-oak paneling instantly brightened the living room, while the kitchen

LEFT: This cut-through to the kitchen serves as a gathering area for guests and opens up the once closed-off kitchen. The leather barstools complement the white-oak paneling by Regina Andrew. The pendants are by Robert Abbey.

RIGHT: Robusto removed all the interior stacked stonework, which was wrapped around the columns in the main living area and the basement. She then installed whiteoak paneling to provide interest and instantly brighten the spaces. The white leathered marble waterfall detail from the kitchen counter imparts an additional feature.

OPPOSITE: The formerly dark and dated kitchen was updated with a coat of paint on the cabinets, while the granite counters were replaced with white leathered marble. The metal hood was removed, and a wood hood with gold strapping was added to modernize the space.

The dining room’s design was inspired by the daring metallic wallpaper by Osborne & Little.

For additional interest, Robusto included a pair of chandeliers by Arteriors, which feature five layers of white-washed wooden sticks on curved iron arms.

cabinets repainted in a soft neutral cream paired with leathered marble counters made the main living areas lighter and more welcoming. “We wanted to lighten up the whole house and give it a much more casual yet pulled-together feel. We went with a very neutral palette with an Old Hollywood meets boho-chic style.” Faux painting was covered with textured grasscloths, and a dramatic, dark crocodile wallcovering in the sitting room, previously a home office, resulted in a sleek, contemporary aesthetic.

Robusto replaced nearly all of her client’s existing furniture with updated, modern pieces such as chairs swathed in Mongolian fur in the basement living room and contemporary lighting, which functions almost like art in each space. Robusto balanced those more modern pieces with timeless textures and lines in functional but stylish sectionals and entertaining pieces that will transition with her clients through the years. “My client does stay on trend, so she’s aware of what a more modern look is and knew that’s what she

TOP: The basement living room was formerly dark and uninviting. Robusto covered the walls in the basement with a textured ombre grasscloth by Thibaut, which instantly brightened the space. The blush leather chairs by Regina Andrew are cozy enough for relaxing conversation. The floor tile is from Floor & Decor.

BOTTOM: The area underneath the basement stairs was formerly an outdated dark-wood bar with mustard-yellow faux painting. Robusto transformed the space into a seating area and reading nook using the same custom wallpaper found in the nearby powder room.

Robusto transformed the basement sitting room into a cozy gathering space by adding a sectional by Alder & Tweed. The adjacent leather chair is by Four Hands, and the cocktail table is by Uttermost.

wanted—she just hadn’t incorporated any items yet, and that dining table really got the ball rolling,” Robusto says. Once Robusto got started, no room was left untouched, including the entire basement. With faux painting and murals, dark wood finishes, and a mustard-yellow color palette, the space felt even darker and more dated than the upstairs. The designer transformed the basement into a brighter, more inviting space where her clients could entertain. “The basement didn’t feel like a space you wanted to host guests,” Robusto says. She wrapped the entire downstairs in an ombre Thibaut wallcovering, which gives

the basement an airy, welcoming feeling that encourages relaxing and gathering.

For the homeowner, the year-long project was a tremendous success, though she never imagined she would renovate her whole home when she first reached out to Robusto. “This house is the longest I have ever lived anywhere,” she says. “So while we thought we might want to sell this and downsize before we began this renovation and makeover process with Kerri, now it’s this spectacular home. We want to reap the benefits of the amazing work Kerri did.”

Robusto transformed the rarely used home office into a sitting area for entertaining. To create a moody, dramatic aesthetic, she wrapped the walls in a black crocodile wallcovering by Graham & Brown.

The kitchen was a delicate balance between the couple’s varying styles. Zeller created an organic but sophisticated design by eliminating the upper cabinets in favor of two tall cabinets. The plaster finish softens the modern lines of the hood by Mudwerk, and the upholstery on the counter stools by Vanguard Furniture provides just enough color for the pattern-loving wife.

Middle

GROUND

DESIGNER TRACI ZELLER HELPS ONE COUPLE MERGE THEIR VARYING STYLES IN THEIR MYERS PARK HOME.

TEXT BY BLAKE MILLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DUSTIN PECK

TTRACI ZELLER HAD JUST STARTED REDESIGNING HER CLIENT’S BONUS ROOM when she got the call. “My client said, ‘Surprise! We bought a new home and we want you to help design it for us!’” laughs the designer. “Of course, I was on board.”

The homeowners wanted to build a custom home and had been looking for lots for quite some time. “We were looking at teardown lots that were $1 million plus, which seemed like a ridiculous amount to spend before even commencing construction, so we decided to switch gears,” says the homeowner. The couple landed on a spec home under construction in Myers Park. It was on nearly half an acre of land, which afforded the family the privacy they desired.

The new home, which was designed by architectural designer Frank Smith, was a departure from the client’s previous residence, which was built by Simonini nearly two decades ago and featured more of an arts-and-crafts style of architecture and interior

“This close-knit family wanted a comfortable space where they could enjoy time together,” Zeller explains. The designer accomplished this with the addition of a comfy sectional by Vanguard Furniture and an ottoman to prop up tired feet. The reclaimed-wood beams are from a barn in the Midwest, sourced from Cope & Stick. The iron chair is by Arteriors. OPPOSITE:

“The husband’s style leans more modern while the wife loves color and pattern,” Zeller says. “The foyer is a great example of how we mixed the two.” The lighting is by Visual Comfort, the sisal rug is by Fibreworks, and the benches are from Cotswold Marketplace.

design. With this new home, the couple wanted to skew a touch more modern and timeless. “Our new home is much different. That’s the whole point in starting over, right?” she says. “We like to try new things.”

“We engaged Traci immediately,” she adds. “I knew this would be our forever home and wanted everything to be just right, from the plumbing to the window treat ments. And with Traci’s guidance, we made some signifi cant changes. While I may confidently know what I want in a floor plan or architectural details, I am lost when it comes to color and pattern coordinating.” The couple also enlisted Simonini to complete the build of the home, which included a variety of changes, most notably convert ing a small wet bar and unnecessary elevator shaft into a

scullery. A laundry room that was initially at the front of the house became the wife’s office. And a drop zone was moved closer to the garage to accommodate the couple’s two teens who are in and out of the house often. “The fun damentals of the floor plan were there,” Zeller explains. “It just needed some tweaking.”

For Zeller, the interior design was a bit of a balancing act. “They definitely wanted this house to feel cleaner, fresher, brighter, and airier,” she says. “The husband defi nitely leans more modern, but the wife is very much about the color, pattern, and maybe even a little bit boho in all the best ways. It was a real dance between honoring this house’s architecture and design as well as marrying the couple’s differing styles so there was no disconnect.”

Small but impactful tweaks to the interior architectural details allowed Zeller to seamlessly blend the husband and wife’s individual styles. “Maybe the moldings aren’t as stark as a purely modern house, but they’re not fussy, which is what we did here,” she says. “It’s about making it feel clean and relaxed; that’s where those styles can meet. Boho is relaxed, but modern is clean and not fussy. If you can meet in the middle, you can end up in a happy place. I really wanted it to be authentic to who they are as a couple. It’s not always easy and it requires both people being open to meeting in the middle, but I believe you can get somewhere where everyone is happy.”

That balance of aesthetics is most apparent in the kitchen. “This kitchen feels both organic and sophisticated. It’s really

LEFT : The sliding doors in the living room open up to an expansive outdoor living space featuring a sofa by Lane Venture and chairs by RH. “We wanted the outdoor living space to feel like an actual room, comfortable and inviting,” Zeller says.

RIGHT: This tucked away area between the kitchen and the dining room is perfect for both everyday use and entertaining. Zeller outfitted the space with custom cabinetry by Walker Woodworking and an antiqued-mirror backsplash for a dose of glamour. The sconces are by Visual Comfort.

The CR Laine bed upholstered in a stunning blue fabric by Hodsoll McKenzie balances the wife’s love of pattern and color with the serenity necessary in a primary suite. The lighting by Arteriors adds a dramatic statement to the space.

TOP : Zeller custom-designed the built-in bunks, which were fabricated by Envision Millwork and ITC Millwork. “The homeowners have two teenagers, and we envisioned this room being a favorite spot for sleepovers and late-night chatter,” she says. The color palette was inspired by the vintage Pendleton wool pillows. The Roman shade and Euro sham fabrics are by Pollack Weitzner.

BOTTOM: This light, bright space is decorated with just enough pattern to make the wife’s heart sing. The window nook was designed for the homeowners’ teenage daughter to pull out her sewing machine. The cabinetry is by Walker Woodworking and the counters are from Tile Collection.

clean and modern but it has this soft, modern uniform,” she explains. “The plaster hood by Mudwerk is soft and blends right into the back splash and into the wood paneling above. By eliminating upper cabinets in favor of two tall cabinets, the kitchen still feels light and bright and not heavy, despite what people usually think of wood.” The upholstered fronts of the built-in cupboard/china cabinet are swathed in a vegan leather—“the pony texture is divine,” Zeller says—resulting in an elevated but soft look. The addition of the string pendants gives the room that organic but not overly fussy touch, while the color in the counter stools by Vanguard is just enough to make the pattern-loving wife happy.

The foyer is yet another space where Zeller perfected the coupling of two varying aesthetics, resulting in a clean, soft, modern look that both husband and wife love. The simple but organic modern architectural details like the tongue-andgroove ceiling and wooden beam accents pair beautifully with the sisal rug by Fibreworks and the Visual Comfort lighting. The addition of the Oushak rug from the homeowners’ previous resi dence provides just the right amount of color and pattern to soften the entire aesthetic.

Though the home was a “pandemic project,” laughs Zeller, having been built throughout all of 2020 with all of its construction delays and setbacks, the result is a house that both husband and wife love inside and out. “Traci made everything easy and seamless,” says the homeowner. “She and I absolutely have different design aesthetic preferences, but she confidently embraced my vision yet pushed me out of my comfort zone to try something I might not have initially gravitated toward or considered.” u

SouthPark

RESOURCES

Reinventing HOME

SHIFTING PERSPECTIVES INCREASE POST-PANDEMIC RENOVATIONS.

WRITTEN BY BRANDY WOODS SNOW

When a Cotswold family experienced an unfortunate double whammy—a house fire and the COVID-19 lockdown—they turned to the mother-daughter team of Lynne Clark and Eliza Barnett at Clark & Clark Interiors for help. The family desired a newly renovated home that would answer their need for in creased functionality and flow. This touched on a trend Barnett began noticing as the pandemic gripped the country—something she dubbed “The Pandemic Project.” But the growing demand for renovations was less of a timing issue and more about a new way of functioning within the home as perspectives on how life should be lived began to shift.

“During the pandemic, people were occupying their homes more than ever before and began looking for better ways to

exist within the space,” Barnett says. “The value meter of their environment excelled, and the lens of what a home is and how it should feel completely changed.”

Clark and Barnett executed a comprehensive renovation for the family. Specifically focused on the kitchen, they were able to construct an open floor plan for good traffic flow, increase storage, add higher-end appliances for enhanced cooking, and include pops of color to infuse life into the space. “We were able to touch all areas of the home, which in turn allowed for optimum function of each space,” Barnett says.

The family loves to entertain and host, but their original kitchen had a smaller footprint that created areas of bottle necked traffic and a need for more storage capacity. The goal

was to design an inviting, open space with terrific flow. To achieve this, the design duo moved the kitchen from its original place to be more centrally located, creating the heart of the home. The floor plan was opened to instill harmonious flow between the dining room, living room, and kitchen, and oversized windows were added to increase natural light, making the spaces feel light and airy. White cabinetry, white subway-tile backsplash, and white marble countertops are anchored by surrounding cabinets painted in a dark hue. A geometric backsplash with brass accents and bright pink vintage runners inject interest into the space. And for the last layer, Barnett added the “jewelry” of the kitchen: hardware. The design team opted for black hardware with brass accents to reflect the dark cabinets, while the solid brass hardware gives the black cabinetry a classic feel.

The finished renovation was a beacon of light for the family, giving them a perfectly constructed and styled home in which to live their best lives after weathering some of the most trying events.

And as for pandemic projects, the reversing of COVID restrictions has done little to curtail the trend of home renovation, and, according to Barnett, the lockdown has created a shift in homeowners looking to maximize the quality of life inside their homes—one that shows no signs of slowing down. “We definitely think this trend will continue into the future, as we believe the way we feel and live in our homes has changed forever.” u

“THE LENS OF WHAT A HOME IS AND HOW IT SHOULD FEEL COMPLETELY CHANGED.”

—ELIZA BARNETT

INSPIRED Indulgence

KOHLER’S STATEMENT TM AND ANTHEMTM COLLECTIONS CREATE THE ULTIMATE SHOWERING EXPERIENCE.

WRITTEN BY BRANDY WOODS SNOW

At the end of a long day, after a workout, or simply for relaxation, self-care is an essential part of overall vitality. Escaping into a luxurious shower is a time to recoup, renew, and refresh, and the latest product lines unveiled by Kohler give homeowners the unique ability to decide what their personal version of well-being looks like. Is it stepping into a showering experience reminiscent of a gentle, organic rainfall inspired by nature? Is it a full-body massage with strong, rotating streams of water? An envel oping silken mist that wraps the body in a warm embrace? Or maybe a variety of experiences?

Whatever the homeowner’s ideal showering experi ence, Kohler’s newest Statement and Anthem collections can make that fantasy a reality by transforming an ordinary shower into a total feast for the senses.

“The extensive and versatile portfolio of expertly crafted shower fixtures and controls offer homeowners a myriad of options to craft their ultimate shower expe rience,” says Daphne Friday, showroom sales consultant and interior designer at The Majestic Bath. “With six sig nature sprays, a control center for up to six outlets, and a sleek aesthetic, the Statement and Anthem collections elevate the daily shower to a custom spa experience.”

With a universal design that perfectly complements a space without overwhelming it, the Statement line fixtures are available in five stunning finishes—polished chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, brushed modern brass, and soon-to-be-released polished nickel—and

—DAPHNE FRIDAY

offer premium standards of durability. Six signature spray experiences—Katalyst ® Technology, Cloud, Infinity, Deep Massage, Full-Coverage Rain, and Sweep—range from super-fine silken mists to strong twisting streams that knead the muscles.

“For the Statement line, Kohler was definitely aiming for a global aesthetic with fluid and unique shapes that lend easily into every design,” says Friday. “The collection includes body sprays, ceiling rain cans, wall-mount shower heads, and hand showers. With such an extensive portfolio, homeowners are able to select the products with functions that best fit their personal needs.”

Anthem valves and controls allow independent access and total command of temperature, volume, and indi vidual sprays in either a mechanical or digital interface. Homeowners can create their own shower experience and even save personal presets for future use. The digital

control options connect to Kohler’s proprietary app, which is voice-control campatible and seamlessly pairs with Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

“There are two different valves—mechanical and digital,” explains Friday. “Mechanical is what most customers are used to, but Anthem combines everything in one interface with push-button controls for each faucet. The digital op tion introduces technology into the showering system with universal iconography and haptic feedback, and pairs with the Kohler Konnect® app for a more personalized experience.”

Combining the highest standards in form and function, these new lines are in great demand, so much so that Friday says orders at The Majestic Bath are flying in. “The sleek design of the Statement collection paired with the excep tional capabilities of Anthem valves and controls creates the ultimate relaxation experience. Homeowners are in love with Kohler’s new standard in showering.” u

“HOMEOWNERS ARE IN LOVE WITH KOHLER’S NEW STANDARD IN SHOWERING.”

BRING YOUR VISION TO US

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

Amalia

A WARM Transformation

NATURAL WOODS AND GOLD ACCENTS WARM UP THE WHITE KITCHEN.

WRITTEN BY BRANDY WOODS SNOW

While all-white kitchens may not be considered on-trend right now, they are a classic that will never go out of style. And with a few adjustments—from minor additions to more complex renovations—homeowners can easily impart elements of warmth and texture to cozy up even the most austere spaces.

“Monochromatic white kitchens illustrate timeless elegance but can feel sterile,” says Karen Kettler, owner of Karen Kettler Design. “Carefully adding a balance of natural wood and gold accents provides warmth that creates a luxe, livable space.”

The addition of select wooden elements and the infusion of warm gold can transform a kitchen into an inviting place that encourages family and friends to linger. The organic, outdoors-in vibe of wood expertly balances the starkness of a white kitchen, creating harmony that makes a space both airy and cozy. Teeming with natural and unique character, wood can be easily integrated in various ways: cabinetry, countertops, flooring, ceiling beams, furniture, open shelving, and accessories. Homeowners can showcase wooden focal pieces by selecting

BY DUSTIN PECK

interesting grain patterns and including woven baskets and accessories that incorporate a variety of textures.

Adding pops of gold is another way to warm an otherwise monotone space while imparting a bit of glam that com plements the sleek whites and organic woods in the room. Updated knobs and pulls, new pendant lighting, upgraded plumbing fixtures, and a specially curated mix of gold-toned accessories will strike the perfect balance.

“The visual allure of mixing wood and gold accents is to strategically repeat the finishes, so the space feels perfectly detailed and interesting,” Kettler says.

When a homeowner and fellow interior designer approached Kettler about working together on a kitchen redesign, she jumped at the opportunity for collaboration. Says Kettler, “We began with an assessment of the overall layout, determining how we could improve the flow between the kitchen and living room as well as make the space a true heart of the home. The result is a crisp yet cozy space like none other.”

The original arched opening between the kitchen and living room that disconnected the two spaces was removed, allowing for the installation of a large island in a rich nut-brown wood with Taj Mahal quartzite countertops from AGM Imports that were fabricated by The Marble & Stone Shop. The sharp contrast in hues adds drama and interest to the space and becomes an anchor point for the design—one that is repeated in the range hood and within a few selected accessories. The white cabinetry from Touchstone Fine Cabinetry was paired with hand-finished cast bronze hardware from Top Knobs. The warm-toned pulls and knobs add a flourish of sophistication and luxe to the sleek cabinets and earthy wood accents, creating a comprehensive design that feels elegant yet comfortable.

Kettler says there are numerous ways to combine the look of a white kitchen with natural woods and warm golds to fit any aesthetic, depending upon the home’s unique personality. “I like the finished product to reflect the homeowner’s tastes and style of the home. The house tells you what it needs. The rest evolves.” u

“THE HOUSE TELLS YOU WHAT IT NEEDS. THE REST EVOLVES.” —KAREN KETTLER

Built on a foundation of integrity and trust, Cottingham Chalk has a long history of serving the Charlotte community. From the beginning, our focus has been on the people. Now, in our second generation of leadership, we are a family business more than ever. And when you hire a Cottingham Chalk broker, you can rest assured that you have the entire company in your corner.

LISA WARREN

THE TUCK TEAM

REBA HATFIELDLUCY BUTLER CAY CRAIG

BECKY MCGRATH TEAM

SARA ROCHE TEAM

LEIGH C. CORSO

LINDA HENLEY

CHIP JETTON

HEATHER MONTGOMERY LINDSAY REDFERN

LISA RUPP

KAREN WAGNER

THE HUNEYCUTT TEAM

HEART and SOUL

ALLEN TATE REALTORS TALK MARKET TRENDS IN KITCHENS AND BATHS.

WRITTEN BY BRANDY WOODS SNOW

If kitchens are the heart of the home where people gather, share food, and converse, then baths are considered the soul—tranquil areas to escape the demands of the day and soak into the relaxation of a long bath. These two spaces are highly valued due to their constant daily use, and their function, beauty, and layout will always be revered as the heart and soul of the home.

“Kitchens and baths remain two of the most important areas of the home when selling or buying, only second to location,” says Allen Tate real estate agent Christina Stone. “They can certainly make or break a deal, depending on whether these spaces are updated or not, in relation to the list price of the home.”

Allen Tate real estate agent Caroline Grossman agrees, saying that dated and bare-bones kitchens and baths can deter prospective buyers before they ever step foot in the home. “Buyer clients hone in on the kitchen and bath spaces and often rule out an in-person visit based on the images of those specified areas, especially if they’re not prepared to oversee renovations or if surplus funds aren’t available to implement updates.”

The demand for stylish, functional, and spacious storage is a driving force behind today’s hottest kitchens. High-end cabinetry with soft-close doors as well as deep drawers and expansive pantries for inconspicuous storage of food, appliances, and garbage disposal are top requests. A recent

—CHRISTINA STONE

trend has been a desire for dual-color cabinetry, with different hues for upper and lower cabinets or islands in a complementary alternative color. Luxury countertops with durability (quartz is highly favored) and modern, streamlined hardware complete the desired aesthetic. Grossman notes a growing trend of bold pops of color in the tile backsplash against white cabinets, farmhouse sinks, double ovens, and separate serving areas between the kitchen and dining areas for beverage stations.

Stone says top-market wants for bathrooms include large showers with frameless doors and multiple heads, freestanding tubs, updated lighting, steam showers, and framed mirrors. She also notes an interest in “dual anything,” including double vanities and mirrors. This trend extends beyond baths to the kitchen, where dual refrigerators and islands are all the rage.

For sellers interested in capturing top dollar for their homes, a simple sprucing of the kitchen and bath prom ises a favorable return on investment.

“I have seen clients gain 60 percent or more on their investment by upgrading various kitchen and bathroom areas,” Grossman says. “Any investment, even as small as a hardware refresh, can improve property value. I recommend clients update these areas to their personal tastes while also keeping in mind whether a buyer five to ten years in the future would still find the space functional and attractive.”

Stone agrees. “Based on buyer behavior, updated kitchens and baths done in neutrals with upgraded appli ances, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, and tubs are most desirable in all price points and by all age groups. When a homeowner imparts attention to detail and functionality to the space, it can exceed their expectations as well as those of any potential buyer.” u

“KITCHENS AND BATHS REMAIN TWO OF THE MOST IMPORTANT AREAS OF THE HOME WHEN SELLING OR BUYING.”

ONE ROOM TO ANOTHER

BY BETH CONANT-KEIM

AFTER I COMPLETE AN INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT, THERE IS NOTHING MORE THRILLING THAN SEEING MY CLIENTS’ EXPRESSIONS AND EXCITEMENT WHEN THEY WALK INTO A FULLY REVAMPED SPACE.

And a perfectly designed and pulled-together room, with all the bells and whistles, can jump-start the design process by giving homeowners a sense of completion and motivating them to move from room to room with a clear style and vision.

I loved working with this couple. Like me, they appreciate a neutral palette and plenty of texture to add interest. I started with the paper accent on the fireplace wall. Having this wallcovering in my office, I knew it would be dramatic yet not so busy that designing around it would be hard. I was asked to style the book cases, which were filled with children’s toys. The couple wanted this room to be family-friendly and accommo date their day-to-day lives, so we had to come up with a creative solution. We decided to remove china that was not used regularly and replace it with storage baskets for the toys.

The sofa and chaise combo, along with the leather coffee table, were our big purchases and set the tone for the room’s design. We went with com fortable, kid-friendly fabrics. A subtle pattern on the sofa complements the texture of the coffee table, while the

hide XO pillows sitting atop the sofa give the space even more texture and whimsy.

It’s often hard to find the perfect-sized rug for a room. This one was custom cut to fit the space and adds another layer of texture and pattern. Keep in mind that when you have small kids, a patterned rug is better at hiding stains

BETH

and flaws. The two flanking chairs have a unique pattern on the backs and sides. A small horn-and-onyx table sits nearby and is paired with a wood and boucle upholstered accent stool, which can be moved around the space.

Now that the design of this room is complete, I cannot wait to move on to other rooms. It’s a slippery slope. u

“A PERFECTLY DESIGNED AND PULLED-TOGETHER ROOM, WITH ALL THE BELLS AND WHISTLES, CAN JUMP-START THE DESIGN PROCESS.”

READY TO

HEALTHY HYDRATION

BY COURTNEY VAUGHN

HAVE THE HASSLES OF HAULING AND STORING HUGE PLASTIC-WRAPPED

PACKAGES OF BOTTLED WATER BECOME A CHORE YOU’D LIKE TO PUT IN THE PAST?

Tired of a standalone water station with cumbersome five-gallon jug replacements that are a struggle to maintain? There is an easier way to provide clean and pure water for your family.

Elkay recently launched ezH2O Liv, a filtered-water dispenser that can be built into cabinetry and walls virtually anywhere in your home. Whether new construction or

renovation, there is a Liv pure water station that can be seamlessly installed into your kitchen, butler’s pantry, home gym, rec room, basement, pool house, laundry room, or mudroom for the grab-and-go water needed on the way out the door.

The residential applications are endless, and the exciting part is the list of benefits enjoyed by Liv customers, including:

Monetary savings. Replacing bottled water for a family of four nets a savings of $11,680 annually based on each family member consuming about four bottles of water per day.

“THERE IS AN EASIER WAY TO PROVIDE CLEAN AND PURE WATER FOR YOUR FAMILY.”

Reduced environmental impact. Using your own filtered water station reduces the number of bottles going into the landfill each year. For a family of four, that’s diverting 5,840 plastic water bottles per household from the landfill by re placing them with an eco-friendly option.

Better filtration . With a Liv system, you are assured of NSF-certified water filtration that reduces contaminants such as lead and chlorine from your drinking water and provides odorless and fresh-tasting water.

Convenience. What could be easier than filling up your water bottle wherever it is most convenient in your own home?

Improved health. Making water an easy, convenient selection helps family members choose a healthy option instead of sugary drinks.

The Liv’s sleek design fits into any home’s style and comes in two colors, Aspen White and Midnight, both with glass fronts and stainless-steel interiors. The sensor-activated filling station is hands-free, adding even more convenience to the industry’s newest appliance. Since it can be installed flush with cabinetry, it is a low-profile way to enjoy the benefits of either chilled or ambient drinking water filtered free of contaminants.

Elkay’s ezH2O Liv is found at major retailers and online retailers, and can be specified by your custom home builder, architect, or interior designer. u

COURTNEY VAUGHN is the regional residential lead sales representative at ELKAY. To learn more, visit ELKAY.COM or call 800-476-4106.

Modern Beauty that Endures.

you’re updating the kitchen or designing your dream home, the beauty and versatility of brick remain unmatched. Choose from an array of colors and textures to bring your design dreams to life with a unique, classic finish.

General Shale Brick

SPOTLIGHT

IN CONVERSATION: LEIGH SUGGS + ASA JACKSON

HODGES TAYLOR

September 16–November 25 hodgestaylor.com

This series of exhibitions is about starting a conversation between two artists and the viewer. In Conversation captures the exchange between two practicing artists that illuminates the parallels they recognize in their work and beyond. As artists working with paper and fiber, respectively, Leigh Suggs and Asa Jackson share a kinship in process and labor. Their delib erate use of the line and distortion of the grid creates tactile works that feel grounded and familiar.

SEDUCTION

ELDER GALLERY

Through September 10 eldergalleryclt.com

Artists Cynthia Flaxman Frank, Jill Jones, and Marlene Rose invite us to yield to our desires and be lulled into the submissive powers of both two-dimensional and three-dimensional art. Using motifs that are explicit nods to nature, each artist’s work challenges us to examine the inexplicable beauty that occurs innately, but also to consider the artist’s hand in intentionally creating beauty with the purpose of enticing an audience.

PAINTER’S REFUGE: A WAY OF LIFE

HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER

Through January 16, 2023 ganttcenter.org

Reginald Sylvester II is an internationally renowned artist whose paintings are manifestations of grace, with influences ranging from the Bible, Abstract Expressionism, contemporary design, and the readymade. His first American solo museum exhibition, Painter’s Refuge: A Way of Life, is currently on view at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture. Sylvester reflects on the charged history of materials he uses in the creation of his work, which include military tent shells. The son of a U.S. veteran, Sylvester's use of military tents also connects with the familial.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ART BY ASA JACKSON, COURTESY OF HODGES TAYLOR; PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL GREER, COURTESY OF HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER; ART BY CYNTHIA FLAXMAN FRANK, COURTESY OF ELDER GALLERY

At Monogram, it‘s not just one detail, it‘s many. When you put them all together, you create appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed perfectly for you. Monogram appliances are expertly engineered with elegant features to take on any culinary aspiration and serve as the stunning backdrop to everything you create. Every Monogram appliance is outfitted with premium features the experts use. From controlled simmers to precision cooking technology, you can reach new culinary milestones every time you cook.