Texas Home & Living - May/June 2010

June 2010

Symphony DesignerShowhouse

2 0 1 0program page 67

The Possibilities are EndlessExquisite Rugs for Discriminating Tastes.

Services include wash, repair, installation and appraisal.

Showroom in the Houston Design Center7026 Old Katy Rd., Ste. 164, Houston 77024

713-522-7870 • www.prideofpersia.com

Appointments recommended.

Mehdi Abedi, Ph.D. and Lisa Slappey, Ph.D.

Pride of Persia Rug Co.

Houston 713 742 5050 www.GrandOpenings.comAustin 512 989 9400Dallas 214 956 7700

w i n d o w s & d o o r sgr and openings i nc

Kolbe Crittall Architectural Traditions Western MolaroFleetwood H Window BiltBest

Say something more with windows and doors custom designed to give you a level of beauty, and attention to detail only superior craftsmanship can achieve. From all-wood to pure steel,

standard to unique sizes with a variety of shapes, colors, grille patterns, and more, we can help you find the perfect fit for your next home or remodel project.

2 Texas Home & Living • May/June 2010

contentsMay/June 2010

COVER STORY

Mediterranean Cool 60No place is too far, and no effort too great for interior designer Debbie Baxter to bring to life the dream of a Palm Beach-inspired home for a San Antonio couple.

FEATURES

As You Like It 44Fueled by an antique obsession and her family’s passion for polo, this interior designer/homeowner created her own brand of substance and style.

A New Take on the OLD WEST 52This ranch home blends the look of the Old West with easy-living comforts that make it an ideal place to enjoy friends and family.

Photo courtesy of York Wallcoverings

May/June 2010 • Texas Home & Living 3

Distinction Life made unique.

At The Bath & Kitchen Showplace, we offer a range of

plumbing, hardware and accessories that can make

your bath or kitchen stand out from the rest. Explore

one of our showrooms, where you’ll be inspired to

create a distinctive, stylish room you’ll love to live in.

At The Bath & Kitchen Showplace,

we’re putting the life in style.

Arlington 7801 South Cooper 817.467.9101

Austin 8740 Shoal Creek Blvd. 512.454.4619

Dallas 2910 N. Stemmons Freeway 972.329.0387

Houston 10005 W. Sam Houston Parkway N. 832.237.8200

Humble 1002 N. Houston Ave. 281.446.7131

League City 2430 West Main 281.332.6225

Marble Falls 2515 Commerce Street 830.693.1023

San Antonio 5919 West Campus Drive 210.342.9771

Stafford 10158 West Airport Blvd. 281.495.5000

Tomball 14627 FM 2920 281.351.1005

bkshowplace.com

Designed for the

Texan in all of us,

the Elkay Mystic Texas

Sink can be a unique

addition to your home

as either a prep sink

or a hospitality sink.

BKS Texas Home and Living_Elkay Tx Sink 0310.indd 1 3/31/10 10:47:39 AM

4 Texas Home & Living • May/June 2010Photography by Ira Montgomery

Book Notes: Designers Here and There 22

Book Notes: Texas BBQ 26

Designer Profile: Robert Rutherford 30

Antiques: Grace in the Garden 36Small, French, Garden Antiques

Turquoise Style 42

2010 Symphony Designer Showhouse Program Guide 67

Downtown Austin Living 82Jessica Dupuy explores the joy and ease of living in Austin’s booming downtown.

Predicting a Colorful Future 86TH&L’s editor Tavaner Bushman discusses the art and science of color forecasting with Austin designer and color expert, Jackie Depew, ASID.

contents

3044

in every issue 8 Welcome

10 Reader Services

12 Events: Performing Arts

14 Events: Springing into Summer

design resources40 Antiques Guide

88 Design Texas

94 Fine Properties

95 Kitchens & Bath

52

Cover: Photography by Matthew Neiman; Interior design by Debbie Baxter, Baxter Design GroupThis page clockwise from top: Photography courtesy of Robert Rutherford, by Don Hoffman, Jenifer Jordan



Associate PublisherBrona Stockton

EditorTavaner Bushman

Contributing WritersLauren Churchin • Jessica DupuySuzanna Logan • Nancy Myers

Wendell & Suzie Patterson

Photographers Tre Dunham • Miro Dvorsak

Robert French • Don HoffmanJenifer Jordan • Matthew Neimann

Mike Osborn • Dan Piassick

Art DirectorKim Worley

Advertising ExecutivesDallas

Suzanne Gosselin(214) 351-6071 • [email protected]

Kim Lawhorn(214) 384-9417 • [email protected]

Austin • San AntonioEmily Mickelson

(512) 658-5992 • [email protected]

Houston • Gulf CoastCindy Werley

(800) 678-9724 ext. 314(512) 657-8239 • [email protected]

Accounting ManagerAlicia Glover

Distribution and SubscriptionsTisha Shipman

Web and Network ManagerRyan Jurgensen

Publications & Communications, Inc.President

Gary L. Pittman

Texas Home & Living (ISSN 1091-5001) is published bimonthly by Publications & Communications, Inc., Gary L. Pittman, President, 13581 Pond Springs Road, Suite 450, Austin, TX 78729, 512-250-9023. Sub-scriptions are available for $18 per year; single copy price is $5.00. Payment must accompany orders. Copyright ©2010 by Publications & Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without written consent from the publisher is strictly prohibited.Postmaster: Send change of address to TH&L Circulation Dept., 13581 Pond Springs Road, Suite 450, Austin, TX 78729

VOL. 4 NO. 3

Travel Effortlessly from Floor to FloorAdd convenience and easy access to all levels of your home with

Home Elevator of Texas. Call today for a free guide to home elevators!

www.homeelevator.com

Serving TexaS from locaTionS in auSTin, HouSTon, and San anTonio

866-218-7032


WelcomeOnce again, spring is in full bloom. Thanks to a winter and early spring of plentiful rain, patches of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes dot the Hill Country and line city roads. The mornings start cool and crisp, but promise warm afternoons. Before you know it, June will arrive, and along with it the long, leisurely days of summer.

On May 15 and 16 the Women’s Symphony League of Austin will present their 2010 Designer Showhouse at the recently-completed Austonian in downtown Austin. This Showhouse marks a first for both the WSL and downtown Austin, as it is not only the WSL’s first non-traditional showhouse, it is the first showhouse located in Austin’s downtown. With the Austin area rapidly growing, its downtown housing market offers a great option for both the young and the estab-lished. With numerous restaurants, shopping, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation within walking distance, The Austonian and other residential developments offer a vibrant, active lifestyle. To see what the WSL has in store for its 2010 Designer Showhouse, go to page 67 for the official Program Guide.

To further explore just a fraction of what Austin’s downtown has to offer, flip to “Downtown Austin Living” (page 82). Austin-based writer Jessica Dupuy provides insight into some of the area’s best restaurants, shopping destinations – for both you and your home – as well as places to take advantage of Austin’s rich cultural offerings.

Maybe it’s the abundance of produce at farmers markets or the time spent outdoors at this time of year, but summer always gets me thinking “green.” “As You Like It” (page 44) and “A New Take on the Old West” (page 52) provide examples and inspiration for using reclaimed wood and salvaged materials to give both new and renovated homes a green twist.

In “Grace in the Garden” (page 36), Dallas antiques gurus Wendell and Suzie Patterson take us on a tour of French gardens pointing out their antique and whimsical elements. Tap into their extensive knowledge for decorating, improving, and adding French flair to your garden.

Summer is a time for color – think ruby strawberries, tasty margaritas, peach season, the turquoise blue waters of beach vacation destinations, and vibrant sunsets. In “Predicting a Colorful Future” (page 86) interior designer Jackie Depew gives us a glimpse into the skill of forecasting future color trends and interpreting current ones.

Wherever summer may take you, enjoy!

Brona StocktonAssociate Publisher

Tavaner BushmanEditor

Brona Stockton Associate Publisher

Tavaner BushmanEditor

Editor’s Note: Susie Johnson of Susie John-son Interior Design should have been cred-ited for the interior design of the dining room on page 4 (Contents Page) in the March/April 2010 issue.

Technically, a brilliant solution and optically, a feast for the eyes. ALNO is a combination of long years of tradition and trend-setting innovation. Whether sleek or cozy, ALNO kitchens suit individual needs and meet the most discerning of tastes.

ALNO | AUSTIN European Kitchens and Interiors3601 S. Congress Ave. at Penn Field, Building C | Austin, TX 78704512.383.9906 | www.alnoaustin.com | www.alno.de

Remodeled Showroom Now Open

the Kitchen Environmentin a

new way


Reader ServicesSUBSCRIPTIONS

To subscribe or to purchase back issues of the magazine, please call (800) 678-9724 ext. 344 or e-mail Tisha Shipman at [email protected]. For more information, please visit texashomeandliving.com and click on the Subscribe link.

ADVERTISING INFORMATIONIf you are interested in advertising in Texas

Home & Living magazine or in our online Marketplace, Designer Finder, or Home Buy-ers Guide, please contact one of our account executives: Dallas, Suzanne Gosselin, (214) 351-6071, [email protected]; Austin-San Antonio, Emily Mickelson, (512) 658-5992, (512) 637-0322, [email protected]; Houston-Gulf Coast, Cindy Werley, (512) 657-8239, (800) 678-9724 ext. 314, [email protected]

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONSDesigners, architects, developers, build-

ers, and homeowners are encouraged to submit photography of their completed proj-ects for editorial consideration. If you have a project or story idea to submit, please e-mail [email protected].

UPCOMING EVENTSTexas Home & Living would like to hear

about your organization’s upcoming event. Events having to do with design, architec-ture, visual arts, performing arts, family activi-ties, and dining are the most likely to be included in our calendars. Please e-mail press releases or event listings at least two months in advance to [email protected] NAIL ANTIQUES

european antiques • art • chandeliers • mirrors • clocks

The Houston Design Center7026 Old Katy Road, Suite 165 • Houston, TX 77024 • Mon-Sat 10-5

713.869.9511 • 713.202.0124 • www.CNInteriors.com • [email protected] INDUSTRYPARTNER

2808 Bee Cave Road Austin, TX 78746 Phone 512-328-9642

susiejohnson.com

Susie Johnson Interior Design

ASID Design Excellence Award Winning Design

2009


Come see what the Hill Country looks likeon the inside!

Estancia has a range of furnishings wide enough to suit any style. Explore 12,000 square feet of everything from furniture collections that can fill up a room to

eclectic accents that will give your home its own distinctive brand.

12703 Highway 71 West • Austin, TexasAcross from Hill Country Galleria Mall in Bee Cave

512.263.8781 • Complimentary Design Services

Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10 to 6 • Sun 12 to 4


events performing arts

May 2 – Austin – The Austin Lyric Opera closes its season with a new take on the classic fairytale, Hansel & Gre-tel at The Long Center for Performing Arts. Now set in New York City in 1983, Hansel and Gretel get lost in Central Park and the witch is an East Side society matron who eats tenement kids for lunch in her Fifth Avenue mansion. The performance starts at 3 p.m. For more information call, (512) 472-5992 or visit austinlyricopera.org.

May 27 – June 6 – Houston – The Houston Ballet presents Pecos Bill, a mixed spring repertory program featuring Mark Morris’s Sandpaper Ballet, George Balanchine’s Ball del la Reg ina, and Stanton Welch’s Pecos Bil l, a dramatic tale of a legend-ary Texas cowboy and his poignant romance with a gutsy tomboy named Sue. Six performances will be held at downtown Houston’s Wortham Theater Center. To purchase tickets,

call (713) 227-2787 or visit houston-ballet.org.

June 18 & 19 – Dallas – Considered one of the world’s leading dance com-panies, the Mark Morris Dance Group

will perform at Dallas’s Winspear Opera House. Performances start at 8 p.m. Presented by the AT&T Performing Arts Center, visit attpac.org to purchase tickets or for more information or call (214) 880-0202.

Ian Casady as Pecos Bill

Phot

o by

Jim

Cal

dwel

l

830-672-6532 • 888-672-1095www.gonzalestexas.com

Come to GonzalesHistory

MuseumsSummer Concert Series

Fridays in June & July 4th

Hospitality

MusicAntiques


3835 Shenandoah Street4/4.2/Formals/Library/Great Room/Sunroom/Cabana/Pool/Three Room Quarters/Basement | $3,495,000

Classic Hal Thompson 1930’s Tudor renovated and expanded over the years in keeping with the original design.

www.susieandpeteryan.comPete Ryan

214.957.3547 – cell972.733.7124 – message center

[email protected]

Susie Ryan972.380.7769 – message center

[email protected]


events springing into summer

DESIGN • FABRICS • TRIMMINGS FURNITURE • ANTIQUES • ACCESSORIES

5417 West Lovers Lane – Dallas214-357-0888

rutherfordsdesign.com

May 1 – Austin – AIA Austin presents Open Architecture, a self-guided tour that will focus on downtown Austin architec-ture studios. See how the magic happens, hear plans for the future, and experience the unique feel and personality of each studio. Refreshments will be served at each space. Studios will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free parking (with validation) is available in the T. Stacy Parking Garage. Tickets are $5; all proceeds will benefit Casa Verde Builders. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (512) 452-4332 or visit aiaaustin.org.

May 1 & 2 – Fayetteville – Enjoy an early spring weekend of art, food, and fun at the 11th Annual Fayetteville Art Walk. The show brings together over 59 artists of all mediums to show and sell their work. Open May 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and May 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information please contact the Art Guild of Rural Texas at (979) 378-2113 or email [email protected].

May 3 – Dallas – Service, style, and grace is the theme of this year’s 18th Annual Salvation Army Fashion Show to be held at Brook Hollow Country Club. The day will start with a chic boutique at 10 a.m. followed by a tented runway show produced by Jan Strimple. The event includes a silent auction and lunch. Gently worn couture clothing will also be for sale to raise funds

Phot

o by

Cas

ey D

unn

AIA Austin’s Open Arhictecture




cultur l evolution

Rustic — refined.rustic style meets baldwin quality.

www.baldwinhardware.com

www.piercehardware.com

6823 snider plaZadallas, tX 75205214/368-2851

4030 w. vicKeryFt. worth, tX 76107

817/737-9090

PIERCE_BALDWIN.indd 1 4/8/08 11:09:22 AM

for The Salvation Army in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Visit sawadallas.org to purchase tickets. For more information email or call Kelly White, (214) 526-1371, [email protected].

May 7 – 15 – San Antonio – Tour the first ever Hi Rise Condo Showhouse in San Antonio at the Vidorra Condomini-ums featuring work by designers Kelley Barnett, ASID, RID and Jeanne Whit-tington, Allied Member ASID, RID. Hours for public tours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mon. through Sat. Tickets are $25. A Premiere Party will be held May 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the 20th floor Penthouse Sky Room. Tickets are $60. To purchase tickets for the Premiere Party and the Showhouse go to asidtx.org/news_events/design_com-munities/san_antonio.

May 15 & 16 – Aus-tin – Three units in the recently-com-pleted Austonian will be open for touring at the Women’s Sym-phony League of Aus-tin’s 2010 Designer Showhouse. Outfitted by prominent local interior designers, the units are sure to wow and inspire. A Pre-view Party will be held on May 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; tickets are $125. On May 15 and 16, the units will be open to tour from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; tickets are $20. The Austonian is located at 200 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701. For more information, visit wslaustin.org.

May 15 – January 3 – Austin – The LBJ Library & Museum, in partnership with the Briscoe Center for American His-tory, presents CRONKITE: Eyewitness to a Century, the first exhibit to explore the influence and perspective of Walter Cronkite, one of the nation’s preeminent journalists. Featuring never-before-seen items from the Briscoe Center’s collections, the exhibit brings Cronkite’s personal and

The Austonian




DEVELOPING VISIONS...

fulfilling dreams

[email protected]

JACKIE DEPEW, ASID

30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN AUSTIN & HILL COUNTRY

Out BackPatio Furnishings

2000 Hwy 281 SMarble Falls, TX

830-798-9761www.outbackunlimited.com

2000 Hwy 281 SMarble Falls, TX

830-798-9761www.outbackunlimited.com

Out Back

professional experiences to life. For more information visit cronkiteexhibit.com.

May 28 & 29 – Fredericksburg – Start Memorial Day weekend with Fred-ericksburg’s annual Crawfish Festival. Enjoy such festive dishes as freshly boiled crawfish, gumbo, red beans and rice, shrimp, and boudin, as well as hamburg-ers, corn dogs, and German sausage. Lis-ten to a variety of live music as you eat your way through the Festival at Mark-tplatz, Market Square, 100 W. Main St. in downtown Fredericksburg. Fri., 6 p.m. to midnight; Sat., 11 a.m. to midnight. Admission is $6 and $1 for ages 12 and under. Visit texfest.com or call (830) 997-8515 for more information.

June 11 – Houston – The Miller Outdoor Theater presents Swingtime, the movie classic featuring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The Depression-era film is consid-ered the duo’s best collaboration. Showing starts at 8:30 p.m. Call (281) 823-9103 for more information or visit milleroutdoor-theatre.com. 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030.

June 14 – 20 – Houston – The 6th Annual Wine & Food Week in Houston brings together renowned chefs to showcase their culinary talents partnered with over 500 wines at more than 40 events. Eric Arnold, the lifestyle editor of Forbes, is this year’s Wine Wiz-ard. Observe live chef demonstrations, participate in hands-on classes, bid at a wine auction, attend a wine education seminar, listen to music, shop, and eat. Visit wineandfoodweek.com for a sched-ule of events and more information.

Swingtime

CA

SUA

L •

FO

RM

AL

• E

CLE

CTI

C •

IN

DIV

IDU

AL

JEIDesign, Inc.Complete Interior Design Services

512.330.9179julieevans.net

INNOVATION IN DESIGN

What happens when the technological brain meets the creative brain? Something really cool, that’s what. Today’s savvy interior design-er is not just abreast of the latest and greatest interior fashions but is also plugging into techno-logical advancements made in industry prod-ucts and techniques.

If you have never pictured authentic salmon skin converted into leather, paint that turns your walls into a dry-erase board, or fabric that is wo-ven with copper wiring, you may be delightfully informed by the following reports on the newest applied science in home décor.

FROM BEAMS TO BEAUTIFULIn the dining room shown here, what may ap-pear to be a basic wood carving adorning the walls is actually the product of a pretty nifty technique that combines an original custom sketch with computer software and lasers, yes lasers, to create an intricate pattern with wood to the most diminutive specification.

Pinecrest, a company based in Minnesota, is revolutionizing wood carving and fretting using the brain child of a group from MIT, CNC ma-chinery, along with their own extraordinary art-istry. Pinecrest enters their own custom design, or a sketch from a client that has been adapted by CAD, into a software program that interprets the art in elaborate detail for machinery that then outputs that exact pattern into the wood with laser technology.

The creations of Pinecrest have been commis-sioned by clients such as Oprah Winfrey, the Smithsonian Institute and the U.S. Capitol Build-ing. We don’t have to tell you how keen this is, do we?

To read the rest of this article, please visit blog. julieevans.net


Austin – The Village at Westlake, 360 @ Bee Cave Rd., 512.330.9766Houston – 2401 Bissonnet, 713.524.3171

Beaumont – Westmont Shopping Center, 6430 Phelan Rd., 409.866.3171

Introducing


I

book notes

If you are anything like me, you’ve often wondered how interior designers and architects decorate and design their personal homes and retreats. From the houses of designers I’ve seen, they usually fall under one of two

categories – evidence of the creative mind and process or a beautiful, intriguing, pulled-

together result of that process.

The recently-released Designers Here & There: Inside the City and Country Homes of

America’s Top Decorators by Michele Keith opens the doors to the primary and second-

ary residences of 19 of the country’s most respected interior designers. Texas designers

include Dallas’s John Phifer Marrs, featuring his updated 1950s-era ranch house in Dallas

and his lake retreat in Eureka Springs, Arkansas; Houston’s Renea Abbott and her new

Houston townhouse in an old Houston neighborhood and her Lake Austin getaway in

Austin, Texas; and Beverly Jacomini and her primary residence, a Georgian-style home

in Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood and a Round Top, Texas farmhouse. Other fea-

tured designers include: Martha Angus, Barclay Butera, Eric Cohler, Andrew Fisher and

Jeffrey Weisman, Benjamin Noriega-Ortiz, Eve Robinson, and Vincete Wolf. From Palm

Beach to Chicago, East Hampton, and Healdsburg to name a few, these designer dwell-

ings encompass log cabins, beach retreats, historic mansions, and every range of style.

The book closes with five valuable design tips from each of the 19 designers. Here are

some of my favorites:

Inside the City and Country Homes of America’s Top Decorators

Designers Here and ThereDesigners Here and There Phot

o by

Dan

Pia

ssic

k

Renea Abbott’s Houston townhouse

Text by Tavaner Bushman

By Design InteriorsAn Award Winning Design Firm of 20 years

Design does more than contribute to our quality of life; in many ways, design characterizes our quality of life.

(281) 587-8755www.bydesigninteriors.com


• Don’t get hung up on trends and fancy labels. It’s looks and function that count. (Michael Berman)

• Dine by candlelight—it makes every-one relax and it’s universally flattering! (Martha Angus)

• Proportion is key. A full-size rug makes a smaller room feel spacious; long drapes cre-ate the illusion of height. (Lawrence Boeder)

• Buy with your heart. (Barclay Butera)• Think of the ceiling as the fifth wall.

(Eric Cohler)• Be flexible. Add wheels to furniture to

make reconfiguring rooms easy for dif-ferent purposes. (Christopher Coleman)

• Take a cue from the environment. Use cool, breathable fabrics in hot climates, and warm, plush ones in cold. (Pam Duncan)

• Encourage children to start collections early. It makes accompanying you to auctions and flea markets more fun for them, and it can develop lifelong inter-ests. (Beverly Jacomini)

• Design your home for how you actually live, not how you think you should live. (Alex Jordan)

• Start with the bedroom. It’s the first thing you see in the morning and the last thing you see at night. (John Phifer Marrs)

• Always select colors in which you look and feel good. (Benjamin Noriega-Ortiz)

• Try wallpapering the ceiling. It lifts eyes up and accentuates the height of a room. (Eve Robinson)

• In a small living space, give the floors in every room the same treatment to cre-ate a sense of spaciousness. If hardwood floors are scuffed, simply paint them. (Stephen Shubel)

From Designers Here & There: Inside the City and Country Homes of America’s Top Decorators it is evident that these design-ers and decorators love their work and gain inspiration from unlimited sources. What is also evident, possibly more importantly so, is these designers have a passion for life and it shows in the spaces they carve out for themselves and their loved ones. As John Phifer Marrs says, “I love my work, but there is much more to life than that.” TH&L

book notes

Phot

o by

Ste

phen

Kar

lisch

John Phifer Marrs’ Dallas dining room



F

a part of Texas life, it is a pillar of Texas culture and history. McSpadden not only documents barbecue joints all over Texas, he brings the tradition, the flavors, the nooks and crannies, the history, and the people to life.

McSpadden, a contributing photogra-pher for Texas Monthly, through profes-sional assignments and personal pursuits has captured virtually every aspect of Texas life with his lens. For the last 20 years he has driven all over the state photographing traditional, pit-smoked Texas barbecue, the authentic family-owned cafes and small-town mainstays.

Through these photographs McSpad-den revisits his childhood spent in a family owned and operated grocery store in Ama-rillo. When he was ten years old he started going to work with his father on Saturdays handling produce or bagging groceries. “The store was a marvelous place for a little kid, but the best part of it, the heart of it, was the meat market,” writes McSpadden. His family store, Central Grocery, was known around town for its fine meats. One par-ticularly charismatic and friendly butcher, Harold Hines, McSpadden recalls nostalgi-cally, “Once or twice a month, on a Saturday, Harold would make barbecue. That’s what he called it, although it was something he prepared in a big electric slow cooker in the meat market. I loved it – the smell that filled the store, the little cardboard bowls he’d give me to sample – lunch with soda crackers and longhorn cheese. The aroma drew folks to the market. Harold was the star.”

Capturing every aspect of Texas barbe-cue – the ancient pitmasters, worn carving blocks, the meat, the knives, the sparse buildings, the worn faces and hands, the smoke, the coals, the grill, the tools, the ancient signs, cracked seats, customers, the motion of a barbecue joint – Wyatt makes them all the star. Texas BBQ honors and memorializes every aspect of barbecue, from the people who make it, to the wood that is used for smoking, the pepper shaker on the table, or the ancient cash register at the checkout. McSpadden’s photographs capture the timelessness of barbecue. You can feel the slowing down of time, the

book notes

Texas BBQ: Photographs by Wyatt McSpadden

From front cover to back, Texas BBQ holds twenty years of pho-tographs, represents thousands of miles driven over Texas roads, and is a testament to the passion of photographer Wyatt McSpadden as well as almost every

Texan. Even if you are not a diehard fan of Texas barbecue, I would assume that you can

at least recognize its place in the lives and palates of Texans. Barbecue is more than just

Text by Tavaner Bushman

May/June 2010 • Texas Home & Living 27Design Within Reach

Ping Red Dust

bijan rugsOver 20 years of service

Largest selection of traditional, contemporary and transitional rugs in Austin.

Phone: 512.302.9191www.rugsbybijan.com

3010 W. Anderson LaneAustin, Texas 78757


Since inception, Sovereign has held unparalleled customer service as the hallmark of the bank. Our entire sta� exhibits extraordinary e�ort to ensure every client’s expectations are not just met, but exceeded daily. Our clients have expressed their satisfaction by not only expanding their existing banking relationships with us, but by also referring their friends and business associates to Sovereign - the highest compliment in any service industry.

3

-

-

Member FDIC

buildings and traditions that are immune to the pace and the ever-changing outside world. Time seems to stop.

McSpadden’s photographs express the simplicity of barbecue and the life that goes with it. The simple life: Life as it used to be before huge cities, cell phones, Twitter, and reality TV. A life of enjoying things as they happen and appreciating those special moments of dawn or twi-light. Barbecue is by no means fast food, it takes time, a skill that takes years to hone, and a smoker or a grill that takes years, sometimes lifetimes, to season. It takes work. “You can’t just throw meat in an oven and come back 24 hours. You gotta sweat and inhale a lot of smoke. You gotta cook right over the coals where the meat can drip down – then the flavor can come back up through it. You can’t be lazy if you want real Texas barbecue, you gotta do the work,” says Steve Kapichinskie of Martin’s Place who has been a pitmaster for 29 years. The photographs lend an appreciation for every wrinkle of every face – the sweat and smiles – that make Texas barbecue what it is.

Texas BBQ also has the potential to make you crave barbecue. In the foreword, author Jim Harrison writes, “McSpadden as a photographer is a devourer and in this book you can smell the photos even when no food is present.” You feel the metal and sweat, you smell the smoke, you hear the noises, and you can taste the food – the salty sweetness of the meat, the spongi-ness of the white bread, the tanginess of the coleslaw, the creaminess of the potato salad, and the bacon in the beans.

“To me these are magical places. Part of the magic is in the food; part is the fact that I was always made to feel wel-come,” McSpadden writes. His photos are not menacing or gruesome as one might think, they are welcoming. You cannot help but think these places and people he has captured are nothing but good. With stark interiors, the design and decoration of barbecue joints and cafés is not what draws the customers. They come for the meat and the people. They come for the food and the lifestyle.

John Morthland, in his essay at the close of Texas BBQ, offers an education in Texas barbecue in respect to its geographical differences. As a non-native Texan, I was unaware of the vast differences and flavors within the institution that is Texas bar-becue. The Czech-German meat markets are at the root of Central Texas barbecue tradition. They use the low and slow technique – cooking at a low temperature for a long time. The meat is placed at the opposite end of the pit from the smolder-ing hardwood (usually oak) and is actually cooked more by the smoke and less by the low heat. In East Texas indirect heat is used as well, but pecan or hickory wood is used instead of oak. Due to its African American and Southern roots, pork is pop-ular in the East Texas tradition along with grainier hot links versus European-style sausages. The meat tends to be cooked longer too. Out in West and South Texas, barbecue consists mainly of brisket and sausage and sometimes goat and cooked in the cowboy tradition of using mesquite for firewood and placing the meat directly over the coals. However, because of the immense size of barbecue pits, meat and heat source could be two feet apart, which allows for a savory cooking combination of smoking and grilling. And there you have it: Texas BBQ 101.

Not only is barbecue good for the belly, the barbecue captured by Wyatt McSpad-den is good for the soul. As John Harrison so beautifully wrote, “The photography of Wyatt McSpadden returns us to the earth where most of us actually live and does so with permanent grace. It revives us.” TH&L

Photographer Wyatt McSpadden

book notes

3970 JH TX Home FOL V3.indd 1 2/9/10 8:19:25 AM


Texas Home & Living: Tell me a little bit

about your background. What made you

decide to enter the interior design field?

How did you get started in the business?

How long have you worked in the industry?

Robert Rutherford: My decision was more

like a journey to a foreign land where one

explores and discovers and grows. It began

in 1963 when I left the military and rented

the fourth floor of an elegant, Victorian man-

sion owned by Edna Moreland in Columbus,

Ohio. Recognizing my awed interest in the

beauty of her home, she began to nourish it

with introductions to “the right people” and

design classes at the museum and historical

houses. This truly launched my career as an

interior designer.

Then, Ruth Wilson, the owner of one of the

largest design showrooms in the area gave

me my first job in the design field and my jour-

ney intensified and expanded. I was exposed

to the New York design markets and antique

shops. As I worked with Ruth on various

designer showhouses and public projects, my

skills and understanding of the business grew.

These were the formative years of my life as

ROBERT RuTHERFORD

For longtime Dallas designer Robert Rutherford, his journey in beautiful things and interiors all

started with an elegant Victorian mansion in Columbus, Ohio.

designer profile


a designer. The feeling of a journey of exploration, discovery, and of

being mentored by people who care is still with me today.

TH&L: What brought you to Dallas?

RR: By 1972 my reputation had grown so that the manager of John Edward

Hughes at the Design Center in Dallas came to Columbus to hire me. I was

the vice president of John Edward Hughes until I opened my own shop.

TH&L: When did you open Rutherford’s and how has it evolved

since its conception?

RR: In 1989, my wife, Anna, and I along with our two children, Lee Ann

and Jon, opened Rutherford’s on Lover’s Lane. Today, my family and

I, along with a design and sales staff of 16, are still on Lover’s Lane.

TH&L: What is the biggest challenge you have overcome being in

the design industry?

RR: My eyes are bigger than my pocket book.

TH&L: What is your design philosophy?

RR: I strive for comfortable seating, fine art work, beautiful antiques,

and always something amusing.

TH&L: What would you say your biggest professional accomplish-

ment has been?

RR: Developing friendships with my clients has contributed to Ruther-

ford’s becoming part of the community. Being part of the community

where you live and work is a valuable asset. Staying in business in

spite of economic ups and downs is an accomplishment for any of us.

TH&L: Who or what gives you inspiration? What design era has

influenced you the most?

RR: At the top of my list are: Mark Hampton whose focus was on English

Country; Sister Parish for her classic elegance and marvelous color; and

Bill Baldwin with his love of beauty and proportion, and superhuman tol-

erance for idiosyncrasy coupled with his wonderfully accepting humor.

TH&L: Who has been a mentor or a major influence in your work?

RR: My clients and family are my constant mentors each in their own

way through their passions for history and culture, their involvement

with nature, and their desire to bring beauty into their daily lives.

TH&L: What is in your design library?

RR: I have a growing library with every book I can afford and a

mountain of Architectural Digest. I highly recommend A Passion For

Detail by Charlotte Moss, Van Day Truex: The Man Who Defined

Twentieth-Century Taste and Style by Adam Lewis and Albert Hadley,

and Designer Guide to Furniture Styles by Treena Crochet.

designer profile


TH&L: What is the first thing you do when starting a new project?

RR: I talk to the man of the house. He always has an opinion and

needs to be addressed.

TH&L: Many designers are inspired by art, architecture, colors, and cul-

ture they see and experience on their travels. Do you find this as well?

If so, what is a favorite interior or image you have seen on your travels?

RR: Yes, there is no doubt that the places I have seen traveling have

had an impact on my work. My most favorite are Brighton Pavilion

in England, Rouen Cathedral and Chateau de Malmaison in France.

TH&L: Describe one of your most memorable projects to date.

RR: Actually, several come to mind. There was an exciting cottage

and garden in Terrell, Texas for a lady who loves Texas plantings.

Her house was a historical home, so it was covered on the outside by

generations of layered paint ranging in color from pink to avocado.

The inside contained a rich display of layer upon layer of history and

plants ranging from the interesting to the outrageous, all tied together

with a 1950 aesthetic, brocades, and animal skins.

Then there was a fabulous mansion on Lakeside Drive. It was the

estate of a prominent Dallas family whose owner’s amazing energy

and love for her home was inspirational. Her vast art collection

became the backdrop for refurbishing the entire home for her daugh-

ter’s wedding. It was a high point for us and the family.

The other was a lovely new French chateau in Dallas. It was filled

with generations of family heirlooms. By using a combination of simple

window treatments and seating we brought the whole home up to

date creating a marvelous blend of then and now.

TH&L: Is there any kind of project you particularly love?

RR: The one I’m working on.

TH&L: What do you love most about being a designer?

RR: I love the fact that it’s never dull. I love helping people enjoy chang-

ing their focus in life. Take “empty nesters” for example. They are a real

pleasure because they have a lifetime of treasures and helping them

pare things down to a beautiful statement of their new direction in life

is a pure joy.

designer profile


The bed of your dreams.

THE HÄSTENS STORE DALLASIn The Shops of Highland Park4252A Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219www.mydreambeds.com214-252-0101, [email protected] hours: Monday - Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.,and by appointment

Inspired by history Built for eternity

We invite you to selectthe Bed of Your Dreams today...

Excelsior II Luxuria

2000T II

NewBeds_9x10.875.indd 1 10-04-14 11.33.22


JENIFER JORDANp h o t o g r a p h y

architectural interior exterior product catalog

www.jeniferjordan.com [email protected] 214-244-8614

TH&L: What is your advice to other design-

ers? Homeowners?

RR: Designing a home should be a joyous

experience filled with discovery. And, don’t

take yourself too seriously.

TH&L: Tell me about an average day for you.

RR: I have breakfast with my wife, Anne, and

we discuss design projects, challenges, and

the shop. Appointments begin by 10 a.m.

Each day brings its own set of circumstances,

but I’m usually back in the shop by late after-

noon. That’s my time to help my other design-

ers if there is a need and to spruce up the

shop so it stays fresh and interesting.

TH&L: What are the essentials you need to

live, work, and create?

RR: A happy home life. Good friends. Flowers

in and outside my home. Books — especially

the Bible. Something sweet. And a good joke.

TH&L: Describe your favorite place.

RR: My own library filled with books and col-

lections, family, and comfort.

TH&L: What is your advice to other designers?

RR: Embrace Dallas and give them the best

you can. Most of all, have fun!

TH&L: How would you describe today’s

design culture in Dallas? How have you

seen it change and where do you see it

headed?

RR: When I moved to Dallas in the early

1970s it was like the “Promised Land.” Dallas

was where people from everywhere came to

shop and it was booming with a zest for life.

Now it is a cosmopolitan city with good archi-

tecture and interior design. There is culture,

power, and money along with great style and

an enjoyment of life.

TH&L: Is there anything you would like to add?

RR: Mies van der Roche is credited with say-

ing, “Less is more.” I go along with Venturi

who said, “Less is a bore!” TH&L

designer profile

Take a Moment and Subscribe to

H O M Et e x a s

& L I V I N G

Enjoy a one year subscription for only $18

Call 800.678.9724 x303or visit texashomeandliving.com



Small antique pieces are important visual elements in the gar-den. Here old urns, beautiful cast iron fencing, and epis (the green birds were originally made for the top of a house) add to the charm and interest in the space.

in the gardenSmall, French,

Garden Antiques

Grace

antiques


WWhen you first begin to con-template and compare French and English gardens, most Americans are

surprised to find that the mass florabunda

flower gardens we love are English cottage

gardens, while the typical French gar-

den expresses order, symmetry, and formal

beauty.

Both styles of gardens can make your

heart leap with joy. The French love flow-

ers and to feature them in gardens, but only

as one aspect of garden beauty. Louis XIV

threatened the life of Le Nortre, the genius

landscape designer of Versailles, if he did not

include more flowers at Versailles, “Enough

of these fountains, green lawns, manicured

shrubs and such, where are the flowers? “

Of Urns, Fountains, and

Expected Things

Most likely, the first thing that comes to

mind when thinking of the French garden

are the magnificent urns and fountains.

French urns come in all sizes and many

materials including limestone, concrete,

marble, iron, and even bronze. They have

been a part of the French landscape since

before Francis I and have been continually

made and adapted to the current style.

Urns are currently reproduced all over the

world including in France and Italy. Many

less expensive French-style urns are pro-

duced in the Far East. They have flooded

the market, but give a good, inexpensive

look to garden corner. They may not be

authentically French, but they draw their

inspiration and style from France.

The French have always loved to “con-

trol” nature. Their gardens emphasize this

desire. Fountains are a part of most French Text by Wendell and Suzie Patterson, F.A.S.I.D.

Photography by Danny Piassick

antiques


gardens. Large, spectacular fountains to small trickling fountains are a natural part of the landscape. There is nothing like the sound of trickling or splashing water. It helps create a garden to remember.

Small Chalk FiguresWhen examining the French garden accompanying a comfort-

able country home (but not a chateau), you begin to notice cer-tain things. Yes, there are beautiful flowers and urns, and perhaps a fountain or two, but there are also expansive lawns, bushes, shrubs, flowering trees, and often antiques and old things in the garden as well. In the French garden you find hints of the latent French whimsy. Sitting under a tree or nestled into a shrub you will probably find a gnome, a chalk figure, of an elf – part of the whimsical fantasy of the French garden.

About three years ago we attended a special exhibit in the Châ-teau de Bagatelle in the Bois de Boulogne in Paris, which featured several hundred small French gnome statues. The exhibit, a Paris hit, was widely covered on their television stations. The French love these charming, small, chalk figures.

When in the countryside, you may notice what the French middle class and manor owners have in their small manicured gar-dens. There are often chalk figures such as an escargot (snail) or a bunny. They are never overdone, always understated as a chalk escargot can possibly be. But there it is!

French Wrought IronAn element in all French gardens, whether grand orf modest, is

wrought ironwork. It might just be a garden gate or an arbor. Iron fencing in France is magnificent and used around cemetery plots, to divide garden areas into “rooms,” to create protected play areas, or confine puppies to quarters. The French love their ironwork and have for a millennium.

Faux BoisFaux bois (concrete made to look like wood) is a French garden

staple. You find faux bois tables and chairs and romantic garden seating, as well as faux bois windmills, doghouses, yard animals, and planters. The variety faux bois applications in the French garden are almost too numerous to list.

Historical Antiquities Another antique element found in gardens, particularly in the

south of France are “historical” antiques, such as elements from the Roman period and occupation and even medieval pieces of buildings such as gargoyles. Once we were in Mirepoix visiting with the sort of the local “dom” who we met through his nephew. We were instructed to call him “uncle,” which we did. After talk-ing with Uncle a couple of hours he said that he wanted to show us something. We followed him into his back garden, which had two garden paths intersecting at a rather smallish water well struc-ture, which Uncle informed us was Roman and had been carved

These epis (made in the traditional l8th-century-style

by famous French potter Diox) stand

charming guard between “rooms” in

the garden. When hail is predicted in the weather report

the owners make sure large buckets are

placed over the birds. The clay birds are

made of hard-finished fired clay and would probably not be hurt

by a little weather, but in Texas, you never

know.

A small angel’s face on a cross displayed on a garden well.

Very whimsical escargot made for the garden. This is a favorite object for young visitors and family members to capture in pho-tos. Chalk figures abound in the small, French cottage gardens. The French especially love chalk gnomes.

antiques


from one piece of marble. Of course, we tried to buy it, but Uncle wouldn’t part with it.

Religious ArtifactsOne of the enormous sources for yard ornamentation in France

is the cemetery. Differing from America, many French cemeteries do not sell you a plot, they rent you a plot, usually for 50 years. For those 50 years, you can decorate the plot with special, beautiful wrought iron fencing and put incredible iron filigree crosses near the graves. When the rental term ends, your kin can either pay the rental fee again to keep the plot for a longer period of time or decline to do so with grace.

If there are no direct kin or if it is decided, the plot will go back to the cemetery, which is usually tied in and controlled by the local church. In such cases, all ornamentation is removed and sold to fund the cemetery’s maintenance. The bones of the departed are placed in the ossuary and blessed by the local priest. Records of the comings and goings from the cemetery are usually kept by the parish church.

This is the reason such incredible small-scale wrought iron fenc-ing is found in the French gardens along with gorgeous iron crosses. Also, fancy altar rails and gates decorate the the garden as well as the occasional church statue. It all works together rather wonderfully.

Old Exterior Elements Made NewThere are several things that were once apart of l8th- and l9th-

century buildings that are now being recreated in artistic form for use in the garden as well as on buildings. The prime example is the epi, the spire ornament on the roof peaks of substantial l8th- and l9th-century buildings, especially in Burgundy and Normandy. It is very rare to fine an old, fully intact epi. When found, because of their uniqueness, they are typically kept inside as a fragile architectural treasure to display. One French potter, Jean Diox, has become famous for his modern creations of this old folk art form. His epis are shown throughout France and Europe. They are, in fact, art.

Doix’s Epis are generally deep-brown, glazed pottery and take the form of stylized, whimsical birds, looking much like they did in the l8th century. He also makes a wonderful, historically-correct green glaze for some of his epis.

During the 19h century it became fashionable to have pottery animals, such as cats and squirrels, on the roof or on the side of the house. The most charming example of this is on the roof of the hotel in Honfluer, located behind an old church building. On the roof for more than a hundred years there have been two ceramic cats having a spectacular fight. These ornaments came from the nearby Normandy town of Bavent. Bavent ceramic animals, both old and new, can be seen throughout the small gardens of France.

Small antiques in French gardens are a long-standing tradition. Whether they are placed for a smile, or to make a design statement, they have warm, important places in the jardins of France. TH&L

antiques

DiscoveryArchitectural Antiques

AN ECLECTIC INVENTORY OF ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS

Antique Beams Large Inventory of

Antique Doors Antique Door Hardware

Flooring Beaded Wood

Quality Stained Glass Clawfoot Tubs, Sinks,

Lighting, Ceiling Tin and more

409 St. Francis, Gonzales, Texas 78629830-672-2428

www.discoverys.net • [email protected] Tues. - Sat., 9 - 5:30

JUST ARRIVED: Multicolored beadboard, salvaged flooring with beautiful old patina

from Texas farmhouse

Antiques Guide1 The Mews features an exquisite 18th-century twisted iron garden bench from France with its original paint. The bench measures 72 inches wide by 24 inches deep by 42 inches high. The Mews in Marble Falls is located at 200 Main St., (830) 693-1133, and The Mews in Dallas is at 1708 Market Center Blvd., (214) 748-9070.

2 Charlotte Nail Antiques is a trea-sure trove filled with European antiques and art. Discover everything from French Country to Empire in the 10,000-square-foot gallery showcasing many of Char-lotte’s favorite design elements – warm carved woods, porcelains, vintage lighting, gilt mirrors, European art, and tapestries. 7026 Old Katy Road, Houston, TX 77024, (713) 869-9511, cninteriors.com

3 Laurel Ridge Antiques overflows with extraordinary 19th-century American antiques. Pictured is a great 19th-century, plantation-made bookcase on a stand. 827 St. Joseph, Gonzales, TX 78627, (830) 672-2484, laurelridgeantiques.com

4 Red Baron’s Antiques is the South’s most established purveyor of high-caliber international architectural elements, fur-niture, fine art, stained glass, statuary, fountains, and classic vehicles. Their trea-sures are designed for nobility. A grand, fanciful cavalcade of the most unique and sublime pieces available to make your exceptional home even more exceptional. 6450 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, GA 30328, (404) 252-3770, rbantiques.com.

1

2

3

4



This Bella Verde hand-carved chair is available in 25 different fin-

ishes as well as an assortment of leath-ers and fabrics (pictured in turquoise

leather and crocodile). $3,899 Available at Antek’s

1135 Dragon St.Dallas, TX 75207(214) 528-5567antekshome.com

Elaborately embroidered flowers rest on a vibrant turquoise linen background; and a playful ruf-fled flange gives this Madison Pillow by Sferra a textured edge and feel. $112 Available at The Linen Boutique5600 W. Lovers Lane, #122Dallas, TX 75209(214) 352-5400linen-boutique.com

Turquoise goes with anything, so why not put it on your walls? Create a bold turquoise statement wall with York Wallcoverings’ Bamboo Leaf Toss (pictured) and Stacy Garcia Luxury Wallpapers’ Linework Floral. Or add touches of retro and modern with a turquoise accent here and there with Marietta by York Wallcoverings. Marietta, VL9017, $69.00/single roll; Bamboo Leaf Toss, WE9075, $99.00/single roll, Linework Floral from Stacy Garcia Luxury Wallpa-pers, GC0787. $69.99/single rollFind a local retailer or design resource at yorkwall.com or (800) 375-9675.

Le Creuset’s Cast Iron Round French Oven in Caribbean will give your kitchen a tropical vibe. Anything you cook in one of these is bound to be good, or at least look good. boomingdales.com

This mouthblown glass Waterman Vase by Tracy Glover will add that je ne sais quoi to any room. If turquoise is not your thing, other color options include pink/purple, green/gold, multicolored, or white. $850Available at Casa di Lino in Dallas(214) 252-0404casadilino.com

turquoisestyleIt is no wonder that shades of turquoise and aqua are everywhere this year as not only do they seem to go with everything, they have the versatility to be both a fashion statement or thick with deep cultural meaning. As a stone, in many cultures turquoise is a bringer of good fortune and a protector, and as a color it pairs well with almost any shade – neutral tones, black, white, red, yellows, pink, and even metallics. There is no limit to what you can do with the color – it can be elegant, playful, earthy, modern, sophiticated, and even antique. Here are a few of our favorite selections – both for your home and for you – that pay homage to a vibrant, historied color.

style

Handmade from sterling silver and jewelry-quality turquoise, these drawer/cabinet pulls are a great way to dress up a piece of furniture or small powder room or add an earthly, Southwestern flair with a pop of color. Price ranges from $125 to $225, depending on size. Available at Antek’s1135 Dragon St.Dallas, TX 75207(214) 528-5567antekshome.com

Agraria’s unique perfumed Tas-selAires create a visual swing of color and diffuse a fresh, elegant fragrance. Hang one on a door-knob, closet hook, or armoire key; or incorporate in tie-back curtains. $40Available at The Linen Boutique5600 W. Lovers Lane, #122Dallas, TX 75209(214) 352-5400linen-boutique.com

Handmade in New York City out of hand-blown glass over paper decoupage of an image from the late 1800s, the Peacock Flourish Plate by John Derian is both a decorating and kitchen ac-cessory. It is a five-by-seven-inch oval. $62To purchase call (212) 677-3917 or visit johnderian.com for a list of nationwide and international retailers.

For a solid-colored statement add a daring dash of blue to any room to brighten it up and give it energy. We love Blue Toile and Peacock Feath-ers by Benjamin Moore. benjaminmoore.com

With colorful, embroi-dered details, and a satin back, this Peacock Cushion will add a rich, exotic touch to any pillow, couch, or bed. It measures 30 centimeters by 30 cen-timeters. AUD $79.95rougeliving.com

Partnering with designer Coralie Bickford-Smith, Penguin Classics is bringing back old favorites with color and style in their Cloth-bound Classics. Each book features pat-terns stamped on linen cases, colored endpa-pers, and ribbon markers. Perfect for a gift to a book lover, to stack on a table, or to show off from a shelf, these editions are destined to be treasured. The Odyssey and Emma, $20 eachTo purchase, visit us.penguingroup.com.

Turquoise’s energy and color need not be limited to the home; tur-quoise and similar stoned jewelry are always in vogue. Just take a look at Jamie Joseph’s 14k and sterling silver aqua blue chalcedony ring with its little diamond for some sparkle ($663.00 Item # JJ-RR6RHD3); or the 14k gold plated sun-burst chandelier Febe earrings, measuring 2 1/2 inches long by 1 1/2 inches wide ($80.00 Item # KS-E3001G). Both ring and earrings are available at Eliza Page, elizapage.com.

Nature has never failed to inspire, especially the won-derful undulating blue hues of the ocean. Waterworks

presents a wonderful array of tiles that bring ocean-side paradise to mind. Kromaglass in Pool ($32/sheet)

and Waterglass in Bahama ($37/sheet) will add a cool, relaxing vibe to a bath or kitchen. Both are 1-inch

stacked mosaic tiles. To find a retailer near you call (800) 899-6757 or visit waterworks.com.


TThe home this North Dallas couple all but built from the ground up is filled with salvage, art, and equestrian elements – a true reflection of the designer’s vision and resourcefulness and the family’s sporting lifestyle. Although

Annie and Bernard had remodeled numerous estates together in the past, mostly in the

exclusive enclaves of Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and Malibu areas of Southern California,

this endeavor was perhaps the largest in scale and the most challenging. In addition to

the main 5,500-square-foot dwelling, the compound blueprint called for a guesthouse, a

groom’s cottage, horse barn, and a separate polo lounge/game room building with an indoor

basketball court and shop. Despite the expanse, it had to have optimum architectural flow.

“Annie has certainly been the drive behind the whole project from start to finish,” says

Bernard. “She has a great vision, and great sense of style with an eclectic taste, as well as

a natural gift for decorating with a simplistic ‘less is more’ approach. You could say that

if she’s the inspiration, I’m the perspiration. One of her favorite places is Hearst Castle,

and at times I swear she was trying to duplicate it! Annie is a perfectionist.”

“I have a deep love and passion for old buildings and homes,” says Annie. “I have

traveled to Europe and toured many old castles and homes. I also love antiques. I really

wanted to make this home feel like a historic building. The front of the house had a

As You Like It

Fueled by an antique obsession and her family’s passion for polo, this inte-rior designer/ homeowner created her

own brand of substance and style.

Text by Nancy MyersPhotography by Jenifer Jordan

opposite page The large stone mantel is the only one of the house’s five fire-places that is not an antique.



dark red brick façade, and using that as my inspiration, I chose to go for a Southern Colonial-looking home. My goal was to have people come to our home and think that it was an old, Colonial home. The best way to achieve this was by using all the sal-vaged architectural material that I could.”

The couple purchased the property – actually three contiguous homes – in 2004, and gutted the entire main house down to its 2-by-4 studs. “It was originally a two-story ranch house that had been added onto in the ‘80s and was really disjointed,” says Annie. “We gutted and removed everything all the windows, doors, elec-trical, plumbing – and started again. We basically had a shell to work with, to which we also added square footage.” The fin-ished product boasts three floors with six bedrooms and six and a half baths.

Annie contracted all the work her-self and purchased the materials, skillfully incorporating chic architectural salvage and retro elements. Four out of the home’s five fireplaces have antique mantels, the exception being the large stone model in the living room. Numerous antique doors were used throughout. Other timeless touches include five antique claw-foot tubs, which Annie had custom-refurbished; sev-eral antique sinks; all antique wood plank flooring (the materials were originally walls from 1920s and 1930s homes); and antique light fixtures. Five baths (all but the master) have antique cabinets hous-ing sinks, and several of the home’s key windows are antiques, recovered from old homes. There’s even antique brick on the laundry room floor. The couple also incor-porated many antiques from prior projects and residences, and purchased state-of-the-art appliances in the kitchen and fixtures for the baths. These modern elements were

left State-of-the-art appliances contrast the vinatge, timeless look of the kitchen. A grouping of trophies, one used as a vase for flowers, act as a center-piece for the kitchen island.

inset A chalkboard finish on the refrigerator pro-vides a place for kids to get creative, reminders to be noted, and grocery lists to be made.


incorporated without compromising the décor’s vintage look and tone.

The ceilings are covered with tongue-and-groove slated wood painted white, with the exception of the dining room, which is picturesque in white-painted tin. Annie also installed massive columns on the front of the house, as well as 20-plus smaller columns around the exterior. “I really like all different periods and styles and love mixing them,” says Annie. “I also inherited a lot of wonderful pieces from my grandmother, who was also a collector and loved various styles as well, which I am sure inspired me. Besides interior design, I also sold antiques for a while. As you could guess, I always kept more than I sold!” She just finished a project for a client in Col-lege Station – a 5,000-square-foot home – using 90 percent antiques.

The approximately 16-acre property houses polo ponies, as well as several other ponies and horses the family rides for polocrosse (a team sport that is a cross between polo and lacrosse). “My entire family rides horses,” says Annie. “We all really love it. My husband grew up rid-ing in New Guinea and Australia, as did I in Texas. He was a race jockey in New Guinea and played polocrosse growing up, and got into polo when he first moved to the states in Kentucky. (He developed and sold real estate in California and Texas and now is in the Internet television business.) I think we both passed the love of horses

left A riding helmet crowning a stack of horse- and polo-themed books rest on an antique chair. Antique wood flooring, from homes from the 1920s and 1930s, was used throughout the home.

opposite page top Living room: With a love of mixing styles and periods, Annie paired modern, overstuffed sofas with antiques in the living room.

opposite page bottom left A sport and a way of life embraced by both parents, polocrosse and a love of horses have been passed to their children as seen in the framed, hand-drawn art picture created by one of the couple’s four children.

opposite page bottom right An antique light fix-tures hangs over the rustic dining room table and its potted centerpieces.



and country on to our children.” Polocrosse is a sport embraced by both parents and kids, including daughters Kelsi, 20, Miranda, 16, Olivia, 9, and son Bernard, Jr., 11, and Olivia is learning polo from her dad. “She’s quite good and keeps some of the polo players in town entertained when she shows up,” he notes.

Bernard says the kids experienced more quality of life in the first few months of living in Texas than in all the time spent in California. “We lived in a high-end area with guard gates and white picket fences, but it was a bubble. With this project, all of our kids have been very hands-on and still are. They’ve painted and hauled lumber, dug holes, built fences, cleaned end-less amounts of trash and been with their mom on a million trips to hardware and antique stores, swap meets, and auctions. That’s probably the most valuable thing they’ve gotten out of this proj-ect; it’s been very centering for the family. Having the kids very involved gives them a sense of what it takes, and pride of owner-ship; they definitely have some sweat equity.”

The interior’s art and accessories mirror the property’s pastoral, equestrian motif, with etches and lithographs of storied racehorses done by noteworthy artists. As for a favorite room, Annie says it’s

above Bedroom: In this bedroom, and throughout the house, the ceilings are covered with tongue-and-groove slated wood painted white.

left Child’s bedroom: In one of the four children’s rooms, a stuffed animal horse rests on an antique bed dressed with delicately-patterned linens.

opposite page A huge part of the family’s life, equestrian elements and equip-ment decorate the home.


hard to choose, but would say it’s between the breakfast room, formal living room, and the large living room. And, naturally, the family spends a lot of time in the kitchen. “The large island is where the kids do their homework and ‘hang out’ while we’re cook-ing,” she says. Purchased from Country Gar-den Antiques, the island was modified with a marble countertop, and the lights above it are also old. “I love the large side-by-side fridges, which I covered with chalkboard. The kids love to draw pictures there and it is a great place to keep notes for games and upcoming appointments. We installed two Viking dishwashers, which is great for when we have parties. Or when we don’t feel like emptying the dishwasher right away, we use the other, although truthfully with my clan, they are both always full!” A Miele coffee-maker is her husband’s favorite, and she cus-tom-created a space above it for the coffee cups by using two small antique columns sal-vaged from an overmantle and adding some marble and mirror to the shelves. Vintage soda fountain stools and an old farmhouse screen-door on the pantry add warmth and whimsy to the space. In addition to Country Garden Antiques, favorite Dallas haunts include Lots of Furniture, B Gover Limited, Parkhouse Antiques, and The Mews.

Annie says one of the more unusual ele-ments she added was an antique window over the sink. “People might think this odd, but I always love it when there is a window to look out when at the sink,” she says. “Unfortunately, this home had the kitchen located in the middle of the down-stairs area, so there were no exterior walls in this room. I just added a window any-way, and now I can see into the formal living room and out the windows in that room to the front lawn. It lets a lot of light in and creates a really great architectural feature in the formal living, as it is over a French cane-back sofa in that space.”

The homeowner/designer has received many compliments on the home, but says she’s most flattered when visitors ask how old the home is. “This always makes me smile, I then usually ask how old they think it is (which is always a response of ‘very old’) and then I tell them.” TH&L


A N

ew T

ake

on th

e O

LD W

EST

Isolated from restaurants and grocery stores, if the Cooks want to eat, they have to cook. And they do. The commercial kitchen range means no nonsense and the open kitchen layout allows for everyone to pitch in and help cook or clean.


This ranch home blends the look of the Old West with

easy-living comforts that make it an

ideal place to enjoy friends and family.

Text by Suzanna LoganInterior design by Connie LeFevre,

ASID, RID, Design House

CCrossing over the property line of Libby and Ray Cook’s 370-acre ranch in Weimar, Texas, is like traveling back in time. As you leave

the main road and head up a private coun-

try lane, there are no signs of modern life

in sight. Wild hogs, turkey, and deer are

the Cook’s closest neighbors. Two ponds

and tree-shaded fields add to the Wild

West landscape, but it’s the Cook’s resi-

dence that completes it.

One look at the home and you will

think you have been transported to the

shoot-em-up days of the Old West (or at

least the set of a Clint Eastwood film).

Designed like an old-fashioned store front

and standing under a canopy of trees, the

home is nothing short of breathtaking.

“It shocks people at first because they are

expecting to see a house not a big Western

saloon,” laughs Libby.

Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman


Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman


From the outside, the wood-clad home has all the signs of an authentic Wild West building. The front porch is lined with rustic rocking chairs where the men drink beer and the ladies enjoy tall glasses of sweet tea on a warm day. Nearby, a dinner bell is used to announce, “Supper’s on!” to the Cook’s frequent visiting friends and family. Most convincingly, there are two cedar hitching posts for those who ride up on four legs instead of wheels. “We wanted folks to feel like they could ride up to the house, tie their horse on a post, and come on in,” says Libby, only half-joking.

Inside, the western theme continues, but don’t expect to see any dirt floors here. All of the modern comforts and conveniences only dreamt of in the 1800s abound – and not by accident. When the Cooks first began making plans to build the 5,000-square-foot home in 2007, they determined it should look old-fashioned but never feel outdated.

To accomplish this, the couple enlisted the help of architect Lloyd Harper and interior designer Connie LeFevre, both from Houston, who immediately caught the vision for the home. “Ray and Libby didn’t want anything pretentious or impressive,” says Connie. “They wanted the home to look like it was right out of a western town but with all the modern luxuries.”

Connie began working closely with the couple towards that goal, and less than two years later, the Cooks began enjoying getaways to the ranch. Because of the sweltering Texas heat, the home is used most frequently in the cooler months. Thanksgiving and Christmas bring together the Cooks’ son and daughter and their five grandchildren. Ray and his son spend much of their time hunting – two of the trophy heads are displayed in the home – and the whole family enjoys exploring the property on the Cook’s four-wheelers and trying their luck with catch-and-release fishing in the ponds.

To ensure the remnants of the outdoors collected during these activities don’t make their way inside, Connie and Libby incor-porated a hard-working mudroom inside the entryway – just one of the home’s many savvy additions. The mudroom is indicative of the attention to detail found throughout the residence. Rather

above An Old Western-themed home would not be complete without a saloon with a poker table and bar.

opposite page Lighting was an important consideration in the home, as the Cooks chose to stay true to the Old West motif and incorporate a few, small windows.

Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman


Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman

Phot

o by

Miro

Dvo

rsak


than using traditional shower doors, Connie had swinging saloon doors custom-made from salvaged wood. This touch of whimsy is paired with practical elements, like built-in shelving and a skirted sink stand for out-of-sight storage.

Mixing practicality with style was on the top of the Cook’s design wish list. “We have our grandchildren here often, and I did not want to worry about them leaving drinks around and dragging their wagons through the house,” explains Libby. One of the primary techniques that Connie used to keep things low-maintenance was to give new life to reclaimed and recycled wood. For example, the bar countertop in the kitchen is salvaged. Hand-hewn beams from the 1800s serve as the fireplace mantel and act as the guardrail along the staircase, accented by hand-forged iron spindles.

To ensure the floors would be able to withstand the heavy traf-fic, Connie suggested hand-scraped hard wood floors that would conceal any signs of wear. The hardwood floors are featured throughout the first floor, while carpet is used in the home’s six bedrooms for a softer feel underfoot.

In a show of typical Texas hospitality, the Cooks allowed their chil-dren to work with Connie to design their bedrooms to suit their per-sonal taste. One room has a feminine feel with milk-washed ceilings, a chandelier, and wispy patterned curtains, while the other combines a darker palette with leather elements for a masculine, modern design. The grandchildren’s rooms are something special, too. The girls’ room is an all-pink extravaganza with Old West touches like dust-ruffles resembling petticoats and a wagon-wheel light fixture. The boys’ bedroom features shades of blue and a tree-trunk bunk bed. In a nod to the hotels of yesteryear, all of the rooms feature glass transoms above the door that can be opened with a hand crank.

Each of the bedrooms features a private bath, and the bath-rooms are a far cry from the wooden outhouse used in the olden days. The master and guest bathrooms feature floating whirlpool tubs or old-fashioned claw-foot tubs and what Libby calls “fancy toilets.” In the children’s bathrooms, wagon wheels on the exterior of the tub and metal wash basins make cleaning up more fun. Built-in cubbies placed beneath the sinks are great for storing toiletries in not-so-pretty bottles and containers.

The home has more to offer besides the six bedrooms, seven-and-a-half bathrooms, and traditional living spaces. A study with built-in shelving maximizes storage space, and a television room

top Built-in bookshelves line a wall of the study and provide a place for books, photos, and knickknacks.

bottom Each of the six bedrooms has a private bath, some of which have old-fashioned claw-foot tubs.

opposite page top One of the Cook’s children selected dark, bold, and rustic elements in this guest bedroom to exudes a more masculine vibe, while another chose milk-washed ceilings, a chandelier, and wispy patterns.

opposite page bottom Custom-made from salvaged wood, swinging saloon doors act as shower doors in the mudroom. The skirted sink stand adds yet another touch of the unexpected.

Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman

Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman


for the grandkids with log cabin walls evokes the days of Abraham Lincoln. Of course, no western home would be complete without a saloon, featuring a mirrored bar, plasma televisions on both ends of the room, a poker table, and a kitchenette for heating up snacks.

Like most close-knit Southern families, food plays a significant role in the Cooks family time. With the closest grocery store and restaurants miles away, the family had to have a kitchen where they could prepare large quantities with ease. “We cook all of our meals here, and everyone pitches in to cook and clean up,” says Libby. The kitchen features a commercial oven range, pop-up appliances, and pullout refrigerator drawers that allow the kids easy access to snacks and drinks streamline meal and snack time. Originally, Libby hoped to include a wood-burning hearth into the kitchen’s design for a true taste of the Old West, but opted to surround the oven range with stone for convenience and to evoke the feeling of cooking over an open-air wood fire. Above the range, a terra cotta piece of art was Connie’s inspiration for the home’s colorful palette.

Because the landscape surrounding the ranch can be bland and colorless much of the year, the Cooks wanted the interiors to burst with color. To this end, they chose hot shades reminiscent of a radiant desert sunset. For contrast, Connie punctuated these warm colors with brilliant turquoise accents in the guest bath-

Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman

Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman


inside, not all of the living quarters are indoors. Each of the guest bedrooms features a balcony. The home also includes two screened-in porches, one on the first floor and another off the master bedroom that features a swing with a custom-made twin bed. “We spend evenings on the porch, and it’s not unusual to see 12 or 15 deer feeding.” The Cooks have wildlife galore around the home, thanks in part to their garden. Libby plans to can the produce, which is just one step towards her end goal of making the property self-sustaining.

The ranch features a generator in case the power fails, and the Cooks can eat from the land thanks to the abundance of wildlife and ponds. To embrace Ray’s hunting lifestyle and move towards their goal of sustainability, the couple designed a hunting prep station connected to the garage. The area, with its stainless steel surfaces, is fully equipped with an oven, refrigerator, and walk-in freezer for preparing the day’s trophy and storing the meat.

“If anything happens, we always tell the family, ‘Just head for the ranch,’ ” laughs Ray. Catastrophe or not, heading for the ranch is always sound advice when it’s one as welcoming as the Cooks’. “People come in and relax, but they pitch in to help, too,” says Libby. “Everyone tells us it’s a comfortable, relaxing place to spend time with friends and family, and to hear that, I say mission accomplished.” TH&L

above Rustic rocking chairs line the front porch that looks more like the façade of a Western saloon than that of a ranch house.

opposite page top Girl’s Room: Dust ruffles resembling petticoats and a wagon-wheel light fixture add touches of Old West to the all-pink girls bedroom.

opposite page bottom Metal water basins act as sinks in a bathroom for the grandchildren. Built-in cubbies under the sink provide easily accessible storage.

room, master bedroom, and kitchen. While the Cooks did bring in a few pieces of art, most of

the walls are largely unadorned. In fact, they are works of art themselves, thanks to the help of a local artist who spent weeks faux-finishing the walls with a variety of unusual methods and textures. In the powder room, the walls are made to look like tree bark to complement the tree-trunk pedestal topped with a stone basin. In the home’s saloon, sheets of new tin on the ceiling were given an aged patina, and raffia was mixed into the plaster to give the walls texture. “We were going to use straw like they did in the olden days,” said Connie. “But we didn’t want to worry about mold or bugs so we opted for raffia.”

Where there are plenty of personal touches in the living spaces

Phot

o by

Don

Hof

fman

Phot

o by

Mik

e O

sbor

n

AAmong the eclectic estates located just south of the fashionable downtown King William Historic District in San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River, sits a striking 11,000-square-foot Palm Beach, Florida-

inspired home brought to life by Debbie Baxter, ASID, IIDA. A 30-year veteran interior

designer and president of San Antonio-based Baxter Design Group, Inc., Baxter willingly

embarked upon an exciting and challenging four-year quest, from international shopping

adventures to the discovery of the most talented local artisans available, resulting in the

presentation of her client’s ultimate dream home and mecca for entertaining.

Living only minutes from their four grown children and seven grandchildren and taking

an active role in philanthropy, the homeowners had two important stipulations for their

grand residence: a light color palate consisting of aqua, purple, and ivory, as well as a space

that was specifically designed for graciously hosting their large circle of friends and family.

Employing a unique approach to design, Baxter worked in collaboration with many

award-winning local professionals including, architect Mac Chesney, CEO of Chesney

Morales & Associates, and landscape architect, John S. Troy. Incorporating a light and

airy color scheme throughout a massive space without compromising the home’s warmth

was the team’s first priority, and in response was the birth of the Mediterranean design

Text by Lauren ChurchinInterior design by Debbie Baxter, ASID, Baxter Design Group

No place is too far, and no effort too great for interior designer Debbie Baxter to bring to life the dream of a Palm Beach-inspired home for a San Antonio couple.

CoolMediterranean

opposite page Stunning chandeliers hang from the formal dining room’s soaring beamed ceilings


Phot

o by

Mik

e O

sbor

n


concept. Known for celebrating Spanish, Greek, French, and Italian influences, this exotic style uses colors reflective of the sea and sky, evoking a tranquil and inviting effect, while embracing dark wood finishes and thick wall textures. The combination is vibrant, timeless, and casual.

“The inspiration for the entire home came from two unique wrought iron railings I dis-covered in the backyard of an antique store in San Antonio,” says Baxter. “I actually brought a photo of them with me to my ini-tial meeting with the architect [Chesney].” These treasures now adorn the exterior; one greeting guests on the balcony above the front door, and the other overlooking the pool just off the master bedroom. From there, the entire home took shape.

The façade, which looks as if it would be at home among the show-stopping man-sions lining Palm Beach, is made even more magnificent with dripping evergreens, iron details, and a complementary Spanish tile roof. The back entrance to the home is accessed through a loggia, or roofed outdoor area that is commonly found among Italian architecture. Due to the region’s desirable climate, the homeowners are able to enjoy this special feature year-round, which is especially great for entertaining large groups of people. This inviting living space is as functional and beautiful as the interior rooms, with ample seating, a fireplace, and a million dollar view of the glistening hand-inlaid glass mosaic pool.

Upon entrance, one of the most dra-matic, standout elements is the fine wood flooring, which continues throughout the home. It is bleached, scraped, and limed in a labor-intensive process that acts as a white wash, enhancing the natural grain of the wood and lighting the overall color of the

right The kitchen fireplace is in constant use for the grilling of meats and veggies. The fireplate resting on the mantel was found in Argentina along with the carved brackets below the hearth. A large gather-ing place, the kitchen provides space for multiple cooks, and frequent casual buffet suppers attended by family and friends.

opposite page A hand-carved limestone fireplace and wood-coffered ceiling anchor the living room.

Phot

o by

Mik

e O

sbor

n


planks. The walls, made of Venetian plaster, are as durable as marble and composed of a lime compound that acts as a natural pesticide. It is cool to the touch and feels like a polished pebble, adding a sub-stantial and beautiful quality to the building’s structure that cannot be attained by utilizing stock materials. It requires a team of skilled tradesmen to achieve such a stunning, yet subtle detail.

“I am most proud of the integrity and honesty of all the materi-als and processes used inside the home,” says Baxter. “Everything is authentic from the European wall finishes to the hand-carved Texas limestone fireplaces, arches, and wood doors.”

As an homage honoring the estate’s incredible character, which was created by the use of unusual materials and Old World crafts-manship, Baxter was able to showcase her in-depth knowledge and passion for Latin America and her fluency in Spanish, by traveling abroad to Buenos Aires and around Argentina collecting the most alluring artwork, furnishings, and accessories she could find. The favorable exchange rate, allowed her to bring back rare items while remaining within the set budget.

“The bar was set so high on this project,” says Baxter, “that I kept asking myself, ‘Is this good enough?’ ‘Can I do better?’ “That’s why I ventured off the beaten path to Argentina in search of truly original and unique pieces.”

Her valuable decorative finds are showcased in many of the rooms. Notably, the main living room where a painting of a distinguished matador in a gold gilded frame hangs above the colossal white limestone fireplace, setting the stage for the space and the tone of the entire home. Multiple seating areas create a social atmosphere while the colorful velvet, silk, and brocade pillows embellishing oversized couches instantly make guests feel at ease even among the ornate furnishings. Large windows and specialized lighting in the wood coffered ceiling illuminate the sophisticated surroundings and fill the room with warming light.

Continuing into the lavish dining room, where by day the room is filled with ample light and by night is transformed into an inti-mate candlelit setting perfect for cozy dinner a deux or a party of 12. The high-backed upholstered chairs are complemented by a large,

Phot

o by

Rob

ert F

renc

h


hanging heirloom tapestry and a priceless hand-woven rug. While this formal room subtly strays from the overall teal color palate, its golden hues and soaring beamed ceiling allow it to retain the airy feeling of the rest of the home.

A pair of custom curio cabinets flank an offbeat shaped antique mirror positioned atop another detailed limestone fireplace in the friendly and traditional open parlor. From the pale claw-foot sofa table to the delicate aqua loveseat, this fancy niche artfully convenes the ocean-inspired color scheme and European design concept. The resulting room is a flawless example of the homeowner’s desired look.

The laborious adventure was a culmination of exciting treks abroad, unearthing precious items, and the collaboration between a stellar team of dedicated professionals. The estate is a pinnacle of design and a true legacy for the homeowners, their friends and family to enjoy for decades to come. TH&L

above left The “her” side of the master bath was designed as a retreat space. The custom chaise is used for reading, watching TV, and holding grandchildren. Silk draperies embroidered with sea life remind the owner of her love of the ocean and beach life. The room’s soft, aquatic tones help tone down the hectic nature of a large family.

above right The two French panels that introduce the kitchen/breakfast areas of the home came from a French bistro.

right Lush landscaping leads to the stately Mediterranean home design by architect Mac Chesney.

opposite page Intended as a space for guests to feel royal, the formal powder room is dressed in ivories and taupes to reinforce the client’s vision to color the entire home in light, airy, pale colors. Handpainted wallcovering, marble mosaic tiles, hand cast hardware, and found objects help create a regal space.

Phot

o by

Mik

e O

sbor

n

Phot

o by

Mik

e O

sbor

nPh

oto

by M

atth

ew N

eim

an


E X C L U S I V E H O M E O F

2010 Women ’s S YMPHONY D ESIGNER League S HOWHOUSE

E X C L U S I V E S I T E O F

2010 S YMPHONY D ESIGNER S HOWHOUSE

E X C L U S I V E H O M E O F

2010 Women ’s S YMPHONY League S HOWHOUSE

2010 Women ’s S YMPHONY League

S HOWHOUSEat The Austonian

The Women’s Symphony League of Austin

2010 Symphony

Designer ShowhousePresented by The Austonian

Preview PartyMay 13, 2010 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Public TourMay 15 - 16, 2010

9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.Tickets $20

Showhouse Lead Designers

Janna PaulsonRID, IIDA, LEED AP

Stephanie Villavicencio ASID, RID

Jeanne Whittington Allied Member ASID, RID

512.476.5098

www.symphonyshowhouse.org

68 2010 Women’s Symphony League Showhouse • May/June 2010

contents 69 Welcome

71 Showhouse Sponsors

UNIT A - 72

72 One Bedroom Condo with Private Balcony The Bommarito Group Marla Bommarito-Crouch, RID,

FIIDA, ASID, LEED AP: The Austonian Design Team Bob Albanese, Design & Construction Manager:

Rob Reed, Construction Manager; Lynne Dunnigan, WSL Showhouse Director

UNIT C - 73

74 Foyer, Gallery + Utility Jessica Nixon Interior Design Jessica Nixon, ASID, RID; Kimberly V. Briggs

(Design Assistant)

74 Kitchen, Breakfast + Dining Room JCW Design Jeanne Whittington, Allied Member ASID, RID

75 Living Room Bella Villa Design Studio Stephanie Villavicencio, ASID, RID; Amanda Ayala,

Allied Member ASID (Design Assistant)

75 Balcony JCW Design Jeanne Whittington, Allied Member ASID, RID; Joy Kling, Allied Member

ASID, Associate IIDA (Design Assistant)

76 Master Bedroom + Closet Gwen Klein Interior Design Gwen Klein, Allied Member ASID, RID

76 Master Bathroom Bella Villa Design Studio Stephanie Villavicencio, ASID, RID; Adam Nash,

Allied Member ASID

77 Guest Bedroom Jill Williams Design Jill Williams, ASID, RID

77 Bathroom 2 Interior DesignWorks Maria Martin, ASID, RID

UNIT E - 78

79 Foyer, Gallery, Utility + Balcony LFI (Leslie Fossler Interiors) Leslie Fossler, RID, IIDA

79 Living Room Dick Clark Architecture Dick Clark, AIA, IIDA, RID; Karen Cano, RID, ASID; Suzi Dunn

80 Kitchen + Dining PPDS Janna Paulson, RID, IIDA, LEED AP; Kelle Contine, RID, IIDA, LEED AP;

Becky Blackhall, RID, IIDA, LEED AP

80 Study/Guest Room + Bath 2 Studio Works Mary Helen Pratte, RID, FIIDA, LEED AP

81 Master Bedroom Tim Cuppett Architects Tim Cuppett, AIA, IIDA, RID

81 Master Bathroom + Closet Edwards + Mulhausen Interior Design Harmony Edwards, RID, IIDA,

LEED AP; Kathleen Mulhausen, RID, IIDA, LEED AP

2010 Women’s Symphony League Showhouse

May/June 2010 • 2010 Women’s Symphony League Showhouse 69

welcomeGoing on its 100th year, the Austin Symphony Orchestra is the oldest performing arts group in

Central Texas. More than 40 years later the Women’s Symphony League was created to support

children’s programs such as the Young People’s Concert and Children’s Day Art Park.

The Showhouse supports funding for these programs.

You may wonder, “Why is this WSL Showhouse not a house?” Because downtown condo living

has become one of the largest trends for home living. With the population of Austin doubling

every 20 years, the Austin downtown housing market is an appealing option for a diverse range

of ages and living situations. Downtown living is a great option for entertainment venues

and cultural experiences.

When selecting a location for the 2010 Showhouse our first choice was The Austonian, which is

an incredible project. There are more than 100 shops, restaurants, and cultural activities

within walking distance. It is only minutes away from the State Capitol and across

the street from Lady Bird Lake. And as you will see, there is so much more …

The Austonian has been an incredible partner to the Women’s Symphony League of Austin.

We thank them! Once you see our Showhouse you will thank them too.

Enjoy!

Marla Bommarito-Crouch, FIIDA, ASID, LEED® AP, RID

Showhouse Chair, Women’s Symphony League of Austin

to the 2010 Women’s Symphony League Showhouse at The Austonian


AUSTIN SyMPhONy ORChESTRA’S EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Nationally recognized, award-winning education programs reaching over 90,000 young people annually.

halloween Children’s ConcertsChilling, thrilling classical favorites for the youngest audience. Wear your Halloween costume!

Building BlocksAn exciting introduction to the orchestra by ASO ensembles in the schools.

young People’s ConcertsFourth- through sixth-graders travel to Dell Hall for special “Classical MTV”-style symphony concerts.

Chat With the ASOA one-of-a-kind, real-time chat room for registered elementary schools.

high School ConcertsASO performs at local high schools each year.

Music on the MoveAn ensemble of ASO musicians go “on the road” to mentor local high school orchestra students.

Austin youth SymphoniesQuality performance opportunities for budding young musicians. AISD/ASO partnership.

Music on the Mezzanine Youth symphonies perform prior to selected ASO performances on the mezzanine.

Children’s Day Art ParkThe hottest summer musical event in Austin, Wednesday mornings at Symphony Square.

Symphony for Simple SimonSchool performances by WSL volunteers for kindergarten through third grade.

Student RushTwenty minutes before ASO performances, $5 cash for tickets with a current student ID (subject to availability).

James C. Armstrong youth Education Endowment

For more information, please contact Diana Eblen, Director of Education(512) 476-6064 or (888) 4MAESTRO

Women’s Symphony League of AustinProviding extraordinary volunteer and financial support for Austin Symphony Education Programs.


showhouse sponsors

The SuMMiTTexas Home & Living Magazine

The SkyLineBalfour BeattyIndependence Title Company

The ToWerCapform IncorporatedHarway SupplyLascoMajic 95.5Milestone Metals, Inc.ScavoliniTrainor Glass CompanyWalker Engineering, Inc.Waterworks

The CiTyClean Scapes, LPCrystal Clear Pools & SpasEddie V’sFleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarTamra & John GormanNorthstar Fire ProtectionRoaring ForkRoy’sThe BelmontThe DriskillThyssenKrupp ElevatorTruluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crabhouse

The TerraCeRobert Albanese, The Austonian,

Construction ManagerSuzanne Deal Booth & David G. BoothCBM EngineersCHP & AssociatesGardere Wynne Sewell, LLPIntegrity Home SystemsMomark Development

Moreland PropertiesPinnacle Marble & GraniteTBG PartnersZiegler-Cooper Architects

10Th fLoor MarkeTing SponSorSDavid YurmanDream Bed Sub-Zero/Wolf

BaLConyHenry & Pamela Bell IIIHansen Architectural Systems, Inc.Buddy & Ginny JonesJoe & Teresa LongLauree & Jim Bob MoffettThe Sherrill Family Foundation

pooLSiDeBarry & Dinah BarksdaleMichael & Julie BaseliceBommarito GroupDoug & Margaret DanforthMarion W. DeFordDavid & Susan DouglasHoward & Diane FalkenbergNorma GillingwaterJim & Jo GreenPat & Ed HarrisMary Ann HellerVan & Jeanne HoisingtonMr. & Mrs. James K. JaynesBrenda JonesHollis & Bart MatheneyMorrison & Head, LPCharles & Jan RoessleinEddie SafadyGlenda Smith, DDSMike & Stacy ToomeyWilchar InvestmentsMr. & Mr. Sam A. Wilson

The auSTonian


This stunning one bedroom condo is entered through a private entry that leads into the open living spaces. The living area is spacious and offers beautiful views of downtown Austin as does the private exterior sitting balcony. This flows into the open kitchen outfitted with Ubatuba granite tops, multi-material glassed and wood cabinet fronts, a stainless steel backsplash, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and a splash of “vermilion” on the ceiling completes the “wow.” Private areas from the living area include a large master that allows you to wake to the sunrise and the downtown Austin skyline. The master bath features a double sink with a Verde Butterfly granite slab counter top and rows of beautiful tile on every wall and the tub surround. California Clos-ets added a special touch to the master closet with built-in drawers, a packing bar, shoe rack, and many other upgrades that make this space not only functional but a real treat. Additional high-designed finishes include the Studio Italia Steelworks tile that flows throughout the foyer, living, and kitchen. The creative floor design displays a variety of tile sizes that is subtly eye-catching. The finish out materials in unit A are selected from The Austonian’s many vendors who supply the project. The materials and products show the potential buyer an idea of the exciting options possible through The Austonian’s vendors.

The Bommarito GroupMarla Bommarito-Crouch, FIIDA, ASID, LEED AP, RID

The Austonian TeamBob Albanese, Design and Construction ManagerRob Reed, Construction ManagerLynne Dunnigan, WSL Showhouse Director

The developers reserve the right to make modifications and changes to the information contained herein. Renderings, photos and sketches are representational and may not be accurate. Dimensions, sizes, specifications, layouts and materials are approximate and subject to change without notice.

CIT

Y L

EV

EL

FL

OO

RS

11

- 2

4

unit

A

unIT

B

unIT

C

unIT

F

unIT

EunIT

D

WE

ST E

AS

TnORTH

SOuTH

One BedrOOm

1 ½ Baths

unIT A1,221 AC SQ FT

98 BALCONY SQ FT

1,319 TOTAL SQ FT

LIVING/DINING ............ 27' 4" x 14' 7"

KITCHEN........................ 14' 1" x 10' 8"

POWDER ROOM.............. 5' x 5' 2"

MASTER BEDROOM........ 14' 7" x 14'

MASTER BATH............... 9' 9" x 10' 3"

MASTER CLOSET............ 9' 4" x 7'

BALCONY....................... 22' x 4' 7"

05334 AU Floor Plans-LTR v2b.ind1 1 10/24/07 1:54:31 PM

unit a floorplanAcknowledgements Art + Artisans, Atlas Carpet, Ben Livingston-beneon, Central Transportation Systems, Plant Interscapes


The developers reserve the right to make modifications and changes to the information contained herein. Renderings, photos and sketches are representational and may not be accurate. Dimensions, sizes, specifications, layouts and materials are approximate and subject to change without notice.

unit

A

unit

C

WE

St

un it

E

nORtH

unit

D

unit

B

EA

St

un it

F

SOutH

Cit

Y L

EV

EL

FL

OO

RS

11

- 2

4 unit C1,461 AC SQ FT

102 BALCONY SQ FT

1,563 TOTAL SQ FT

LIVING/DINING.............16'9"x20'7"

KITCHEN........................14'8"x8'5"

MASTERBEDROOM........13'8"x16'4"

MASTERBATH...............10'2"x11'10"

MASTERCLOSET............7'x9'8"

BEDROOM2...................12'5"x8'11"

BATH2...........................8'3"x5'10"

BALCONY.......................9'11"x9'4"

Two Bedrooms

2 BaThsunit c floorplanLead Designers Jeanne Whittington, Allied Member ASID, RID Stephanie Villavicencio, ASID, RID

Jessica Nixon

ASID, RID

Kimberly V. Briggs (Design Assistant)

Jessica NixonInterior [email protected] L. Nixon,

Kimberly V. Briggs

foyer, gallery + utility

The silver plaster walls give a shimmering backdrop for the

contemporary art in the ASID- designed entry. The bold use of

orange and metal accessories adds unexpected excitement. A mirror placed at the end of

the hall expands the entry as it reflects light from the silver leaf

chandelier. The contemporary floor runner adds pattern to the

monochromatic tile floor.

Acknowledgments Harway Supply (washer and dryer), Velvet Barton (faux painter)

Jeanne Whittington Allied Member

ASID, RIDTBAE RID #6764

kitchen + breakfast + dining room

Custom walnut European cabinets, made by local craftsmen, feature frosted glass accents. Coun-tertops are eco-friendly ICESTONE made from recycled glass. The backsplash is a mosaic of Italian subway-style glass tiles in shades of green, gold, and bronze tones. Hand-blown glass lighting pendants hang over the breakfast bar with three contemporary barstools. A practical demilume drop-leaf table doubles as a sofa table and is used for dining.

Acknowledgments BMC West Hardware, BoConcept, Copenhagen Contemporary Furniture Gallery, Harway Supply, JCW Design, Lights n’ Such Lighting, Llano Custom Cabinets, Sofa and Chair Co., Tileworks of Texas, Waterworks

JCW Design11250 Taylor Draper

Lane, Ste. 922Austin, TX 78759(512) 801-7251

[email protected]_Texas.com

balcony

Perched high above the Austin skyline, this balcony provides a

seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living. Lush turf covers the floor creating a maintenance-free

space. Modern, white chaise lounges and an accent table add pops of contrast and a whimsical

aluminum sculpture establishes visual height and interest.

Acknowledgments Hellas Construction (turf), Bobby Hamric (sculpture), Greg & Contessa McPike (Richard Schultz outdoor furniture)

Joy Kling, Allied Member ASID, Associate IIDA (Design Assistant)

living room

Inspired by a sparkling glass bead wall covering, the living room integrates all of the colors and design elements of the unit. Clean line furnishings upholstered in subdued textiles provide a neu-tral backdrop for bold orange ac-cents. Modern sheer panels frame the view and soften the space.

Stephanie Villavicencio ASID, RID

Amanda Ayala, Allied Member ASID (De-sign Assistant)

Bella Villa Design Studio(512) 443-3200(512) 478-8202 [email protected]

Acknowledgments BoConcept, Bijan Rugs, Maya Romanoff, Knoll, Texas Media Systems, Threshold, DWR, Bella Villa Design Studio, Fancy Plants

Jeanne WhittingtonAllied Member ASID, RIDTBAE RID #6764

JCW Design11250 Taylor Draper Lane, Ste. 922Austin, TX 78759(512) [email protected]_Texas.com


Gwen Klein, Allied Member

ASID, RID

Gwen Klein Interior Design(512) 327-5275

www.gkleininterior design.com

master bathroom

master bedroom + closet

A glass mosaic tile pattern is mirrored with a subtle tone-on-tone linear pattern on the wall in the water closet. Espresso-colored cabinets contrast with the soft wall color. The master bathroom offers a nice mix of masculinity through the textured tile and femininity with glass tile and smooth surfaces.

Amidst the bustle of downtown Austin, a serene tranquil master

bedroom retreat was created. The muted gray-green color scheme,

natural fiber wall covering, carpet-ing, and luxurious bedding com-

bine to muffle outside distractions and enhance a restful mood.

Classically elegant contemporary furnishings keep the space simple,

yet provide useful storage, while glass and mirror accents provide

just enough sparkle.

Stephanie Villavicencio

ASID, RID

Adam Nash, Allied Member ASID

(Design Assistant)

Bella Villa Design Studio(512) 443-3200

(512) 478-8202 [email protected]

www.bellavillads.com

Acknowledgments TileWorks of Texas, Travis Tile, Alkusari, Llano Custom Cabinets, JCM Plaster, Inc., Waterworks, Fancy Plants

Acknowledgments Alsyon Jon Interiors, Heather Scott Home & Design, Karyn Chavez of Home Accessories, Etc., Kravet, Llano Custom Cabinets (closet),

Provencal Home, Stroheim, River City Cabinets (armoire)


guest bedroom

bathroom 2

Jill WilliamsASID, RID

Jill Williams Design1300B Summer Oak Dr.

Austin, TX 78704

(512) 964-0676

[email protected]

www.jillwilliamsdesign.com

Maria Martin

ASID, RID

Interior DesignWorks731 Patterson Ave.

Austin, TX 78703

(512) 627-6552

[email protected]

www.idwaustin.com

The use of warm metallics adds a sense of comfort and coziness to the guest bedroom while main-taining a style of elegance. Spots of color in the room’s accessories add a whimsical flare.

This warm, contemporary bathroom is made of a composition of creams, whites, grays, and

chocolate. The textures are layered with painted wall finishes, polished nickel, and wood and

glass to add interest in every element. The sim-plicity of the space allows for seasonal changes

in artwork and accessories.

Acknowledgements BoConcept, Texas Media Systems

Acknowledgements Zita Designs


unit e floorplanLead Designer Janna Paulson, RID, IIDA, LEED AP

foyer, gallery, utility + patio

Leslie Fossler RID, IIDA

LFI (Leslie Fossler Interiors)

404 Baylor St.Austin, TX 78703(512) 474-0768

[email protected]

The foyer space greets visitors with rich chocolate walls and hosts the bold art and sculpture of Texas artists. The intent is vibrant and whimsical. The utility space is reinterpreted as anything but a traditional utility space. It is playful and an unexpected stage for art to provoke thought rather than promote function. The patio serves as a relaxing lounge area contrasting the life of Austin below.

Acknowledgements Zita Design – Faux Finishing

Dick Clark

AIA, IIDA, RID

Karen Cano, ASID, RID

Suzi Dunn

Dick Clark Architecture

207 W. 4th St.Austin, TX 78704www.dcarch.com

living room

The living room area incorporates sleek custom millwork

which houses media equipment, provides storage, and serves

as a room divider between the living area and the guest room/home office. Using a palette of

harmonious neutrals, the furniture is upholstered in luxurious fabrics

and pleasing textures. Furniture placement is designed with

comfort and conversation in mind and affords the owner a versatile

area in which to entertain or relax. A patterned area rug over the

white oak floors helps define the seating area and adds another

layer of texture and color.

Acknowledgements Arte Design, Threshold

Kelle Contine RID, IIDA, LEED AP

Janna Paulson RID, IIDA, LEED AP

Becky BlackhallRID, IIDA, LEED AP

PPDS1012 Mopac Circle Ste. 200Austin, TX 78746(512) 328-1883(512) 328-7448 [email protected]

kitchen + dining

The kitchen is commonly understood to be the heart of any home. By incorporating strong materials such as metal, glass, and wood, the much-loved dining room and kitchen has evolved into a truly unique showpiece. The textural components of each finish selection create a visual play that will inspire many thoughtful conversations in years to come. Metal panels on the island front provide

durability and lend an urban feel to the room. Custom, hand-painted, translucent panels at the pantry create reflective surfaces that enhance the fluid ambiance of the space. Additionally, the

eclectic mosaic backsplash reminds one of champagne on the rocks. The combination of rich wenge cabinets with white oak floors creates an elegant feeling and contributes to the warmth that is

immediately felt in the room. From the custom pantry that rapidly changes from coffee to cocktails, to the gorgeous mix of soapstone and quartz countertops, the space balances functionality with

sophistication and becomes a main focal point of social gathering.

Acknowledgments Arte Design, Stone Solutions, Inc., Lightblocks, Dorado Soapstone, McNichols, Anchor-Ventana, Architectural Tile & Stone, Zita Design, Caesarstone, Scott + Cooner

study/guest room + bath 2

Mary Helen Pratte RID, FIIDA, LEED AP

Studio Works8700 Merion CircleAustin, TX 78754(512) [email protected]

As an extension of the open floor plan concept, traditional walls that formed the guest bedroom were removed and a storage wall unit, that acts as a division of space between the living areas and the study/guest room, was installed. It provides a desk, shelving, and full-height storage on the study/guest room side. When privacy is desired, the sliding panels that cover the audio/visual equipment and library on the living area side are moved to separate the spaces. The finishes of the study/guest room and second bath continue the simple palette that acts as a backdrop for the client’s impressive art collection.

Acknowledgments Studio Fuse – Kelly McEachern


master bathroom + closet

Harmony Edwards RID, IIDA, LEED AP

master bedroom

Tim Cuppett AIA, IIDA, RID

Tim Cuppett Architects

4300 Marathon Blvd.

Austin, TX 78756

(512) 450-0820

(512) 450-0858 fax

[email protected]

www.cuppettarchitects.com

A luxurious, peaceful retreat in the sky is accomplished with an approach towards minimalism, using rich, natural materials on an intimate scale.

The master bathroom was designed as a modern spa-like retreat with all the luxuries of a boutique hotel. Neutral finishes and subtle metallic accents create a soft backdrop for

an elegant glass mosaic feature wall. Silver travertine countertops and custom walnut cabinetry float in the room maximizing the open feel of the space. Dual backlit mirrors with an integrated television allow the resident to catch up on world news or enjoy a

movie while relaxing in the freestanding soaker tub. The suite is also equipped with a towel warming drawer and spacious custom walk in closet.

Kathleen Mulhausen RID, IIDA, LEED AP

Edwards + Mulhausen

Interior Design1412 Collier St., Bldg. C

Austin, TX 78704(512) 291-6657

(512) 480-5015 (fax)[email protected]@EMINTdesign.com

Acknowledgements California Closets, Maharam, Bentley Prince Street, FutureNatural

T

Text by Jessica DupuyPhotography by Tre Dunham

Ten years ago, the concept of living in down-town Austin would have been a little unusual. Primarily a business district with a few good restaurants, the

downtown area left a lot to be desired in the way of a warm

and livable community. Fast-forward to 2010 and you’ll find that

things are quite different. With more than 10 high-rise loft and

condominium developments – and two more slated to open within

a year – plus a saturation of boutique shops, more dining options,

and a popular weekend farmers’ market at the heart of downtown,

urban living in Austin has a bright and shiny new look.

Just ask Anne Marie Smith, a partner at Austin-based creative

advertising agency, Arsenal Brand. Having lived downtown at the

Brown Building for several years and now at the new 360 Tower

Condominiums, Smith has made a lifestyle out of this convenient

little community.

“It’s so great to live downtown because everything you want is right

around you,” says Smith. “You can always find something to do.”

Smith, who considers her style “modern,” used some of down-

town’s home décor stores to outfit her home. “I love shopping at

Design Within Reach and Mercury Design Studio for home décor,

and when I can, I love to get one or two things from Estilo or

Peyton’s Place for my closet,” says Smith. “I also like to walk my

dog over to Lofty Dog to play and find toys for him. And the best

part is, they even deliver his food to my condo. And now there’s

a new Austin Urban Vet just a couple of blocks away. I love the

fact that all of my needs and even my dog’s needs are taken care

of within a few blocks.”

Smith works at 5th St. and Congress Ave., just a few blocks

from home. “When I get home from work and I’m tired at night,

I don’t have to go anywhere that’s not right at home for me. The

360 building is completely self-contained with Mulberry Wine

Bar, Garrido’s restaurant, a yogurt shop, a grocery store, and a

sandwich shop. It’s ideal for my lifestyle.”

In addition to some of Anne Marie’s favorite downtown hot

spots, we’ve got a few suggestions as well:

DOWNTOWN Austin Living


Jubilation™ Gardenia

A charming improvement on a Southern favorite, Jubilation

grows compactly and reblooms.

Visit our web site to view the entire collection and to fi nd

a retailer near you.

southernlivingplants.com

71088_may.indd 2 3/22/10 2:40 PM

HOMe SHOPS:Design within ReaCh – With locations all over the country, including one right in the 2nd Street District of downtown Aus-tin, Design Within Reach is the answer to the contemporary home dweller’s desires. Boasting the best in European and Ameri-can clean, simple styles, this sleek home store may appear to be more like a gallery than a furniture store, but you’ll soon find a welcome invitation to linger, test out the items that speak to you the most, and explore out-of-store options with an on-site designer through the San Francisco-based outfitter’s extensive catalog line.

whit hanks – Whether you’re looking for clean, contemporary lines or classic traditional design with antique accents and vintage finds, Whit Hanks is the place where you can find it all. Though most of what you’ll find at Whit Hanks Antiques is a gallery of antiques managed by a number of different antique dealers including Negrel Antiques, Pat Monroe Antiques, and Antique Swan, you’ll also find the more modern design shop, Nest, in the same building. At Whit Hanks, it’s not unusual to see interior designers and clients strolling the gallery pinning down

design concepts and working out plans for rooms in a home. With French, Ital-ian, Early American, Spanish, and even Southeast Asian items arranged through-out, there’s really no direction that can’t be achieved by spending a devoted amount of time here. In fact the problem is rarely whether or not you will find something you like, it’s usually finding too many items that you can’t live without!

MORe hOMe shOps: Finch, SoCo Designs, Dream Bed (formerly Hastens), Mercury Designs, and Bo Concept

OTHeR SHOPS:peytOn’s plaCe – For the girl about town, there’s a lot to choose from in the way of women’s apparel. Estilo and Shiki both offer high-style lines with a limited number of unique fashionable pieces. But for a quick and cute trendy piece without the sticker shock, Peyton’s Place is a can’t miss. From billowy frocks, to comfortable chemises and a handful of evening dresses, Peyton’s place promises to be the place “where fashion meets affordability.”

galleRy D – You can find a number of cute shops in the 2nd Street District. We

left One of the many treasures offered at Pat Mon-roe Antiques at Whit Hanks.

below Dream Bed, located on 3rd St., will soon carry exlusively the luxurious Savoir beds.

opposite page At Royal Blue Grocery’s 360 Tower Condominium location, buy a bottle of wine and enjoy it at one of their outdoor tables.

opposite page inset Downtown Austin resident Anne Marie Smith enjoys a glass of wine at Mul-berry, her go-to wine bar.


like this one because of its low-key style. Gallery D blends fashion with art with multiple women’s apparel lines from Australia, New York, and London as well as a display of different photography from local Austin artists. The style: Casual-Chic. “I really wanted to represent what I think Austin fashion is for women,” says pro-prietor Emily Keast. “People in Austin are hip, but they also like to be laid back. The clothes we have suit just about anyone and are great for everyday wear as well as that special going-out look.”

wee – Know someone who’s expecting and want to congratulate them with the perfect gift? Make a stop at Wee. This bright and cheerful little shop has just about everything today’s modern baby could want – or at least that the mother-to-be could want. From contemporary furniture lines including cribs by Oeuf, highchairs by Svan, bedding from Dwell studio, and an endless number of chic toys, clothes, and baby gear, there’s no shortage of perfect gift ideas at Wee. The shop even has a gift registry available making it easy for moms-to-be to share their wish list, and for you to find the perfect gift.

OtheR shOps nOt tO Miss: Lofty Dog, Estilo, Shiki

PeRFORMING ARTS/MuSeuMS:the BlantOn MuseuM OF aRt – One of the shiny new additions to the Austin art community, the Blanton is the largest university art museum in the U.S., and holds one of the country’s largest pri-vate collections of old master paintings and drawings. In addition to European holdings rich in Renaissance and baroque works from the likes of Poussin, Veronese, and Correggio, the museum has a supe-rior sampling of 20th- and early-21st-century American art, with an

emphasis on abstract painting. The museum’s extensive collection of modernist and contemporary Latin-American art is one of the country’s largest, encompassing 1,600 works in various mediums.

the lOng CenteR FOR the peRFORMing aRts – Houston and Dallas aren’t the only major cities in Texas with a thriving arts scene. With the 2008 opening of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center’s expansive venue along the shores of Lady Bird Lake, Austin’s performing art community has found a home for opera, symphony, and ballet. In fact, it is the new permanent home of the Austin Symphony Orchestra, the Austin Lyric Opera, and Ballet Austin. The Long Center for the Performing Arts also houses a wing for community arts education programs.

MORe sights: Paramount Theater, the Texas State Capitol, Aus-tin Museum of Art, Austin Music Hall, Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum

ReSTAuRANTS: JO’s – This half-indoor, half-outdoor spot is a favorite for a quick and flavorful lunch, a pick-me-up breakfast, or simply a good, strong, cup of… Jo. Though its original location is on South Congress, this second, more expansive locale offers a full breakfast and lunch menu with omelets, huevos rancheros, tuna melts, hot dogs, fritos pies, sal-ads, and the best Dr. Pepper cake with fudge icing you’ve ever tasted.

laMBeRts – There aren’t many places in Texas who can get away with putting the terms “fancy” with “barbecue,” but Lamberts seems to make it work. Known almost as much for its sides and specials from the grill as it is for its barbecue, this hip-meets-

Gallery D Finch


Purple Diamond® Loropetalum

Enjoy less pruning with PurpleDiamond’s low maintenance,

compact growth habit. Vibrantpink blooms in spring, and deep

purple foliage all season.




71088_may.indd 3 3/22/10 2:40 PM

rustic restaurant serves up delicious brown sugar brisket, rosemary-rubbed lamb chops, spicy deviled eggs, green-chili queso, and a homemade version of chocolate and caramel moon pie. Lamberts’ somewhat best-kept-secret is the upstairs bar where regulars tend to gather for great food and great music from resident local bands.

MulBeRRy – Though you may have to elbow your way to a seat at this “petite” style wine bar, Mulberry is one of down-town’s best local hangouts – especially for those who live upstairs in the 360 Con-dominium Towers. Perhaps it’s the quaint, laidback setting, or the excellent wine list, but it’s probably such a restaurant star for the little kitchen in back serving up some of the best food in town.

“Mulberry is amazing. I love to hang out down there. You have this cozy feeling that you know everyone down there,” says Smith.

Executive Chef Zack Northcutt whips up some creative concoctions including a classic version of Swedish meatballs in a white wine broth; a foieberry burger with – you guessed it – foie gras; and “devils on horseback,” an addictively sweet and savory treat of mission figs and gorgonzola wrapped in sugar-cured bacon. Yum.

FOuR seasOn’s hOtel lOBBy BaR anD tRiO – Every town has a classic see-and-be-seen establishment. In Austin, locals and out-of-towners alike seem to flock to the refined sophistication of the Four Seasons lobby bar. Overlooking the waters of Lady Bird Lake, this longtime favorite is where after-work deals are made on napkins and handshakes; where couples go for a relax-ing cocktail before a big night out; and where most politicians, musicians, and A-list celebrities make a stop on their way through town. For those that don’t want to travel too far for dinner, a world-class meal is just a few steps away at Trio. Here, Executive Chef Elmar Prambs and Chef de Cuisine Todd Duplechan deliver seasonal culinary delights with steak, seafood, and fresh ingredients from local purveyor – and the wine list is pretty amazing as well.

MORe RestauRants: Parkside, La Condesa, Teuscher Chocolates, YummyYo (Yogurt), Garrido’s, 1886 Bakery & Café, Carillon, Perry’s

WINe & GROCeRY:ROyal Blue gROCeRy – Downtown liv-ing isn’t complete without a quaint little grocery around the corner. For big shops, you can’t do much better than hitting the flagship Whole Foods store on 6th St. and Lamar, but for last minute staples and great local products, Royal Blue Grocery is the place. With two locations, this is a community store, the likes of which few people come across anymore. Regulars are afforded the perk of putting items “on account” to be paid monthly, rather than per transaction. Not only can you grab a carton of milk, some Water Oaks Farms goat ice cream, a loaf of fresh bread, and some sliced Boar’s Head meat from the deli case, but you can also enjoy a nice glass of wine on the petite patio out front.

austin wine MeRChant – Since 1991, this small boutique wine outlet has been the “go-to” place for wine lovers through-out Austin. And though collectors fre-quent this place to keep their cellars stocked, this is the perfect shop for novices as well. Customers are warmly greeted by a friendly sales person who is happy to help locate just about any varietal or vintage you have in mind. The store is divided with old-world wines on one side including classics from France and Italy, and new-world wines from the likes of California, New Zealand, and Oregon on the other. You can navigate this place on your own if you’re a regular, but it’s so much more fun to let one of the knowledgeable staff members guide you along – not only will you appreciate their knowledge and friend-liness, but you’ll likely end up walking out with something you’ve never tasted before that will undoubtedly become a new favorite.

MORe FOOD stORes: Whole Foods flag-ship location, Downtown Farmers’ Market on Saturdays TH&L


Texas Home & Living: what exactly is color forecasting and why is it important?

Jackie Depew: Color forecasting is the discipline of analyzing current trends in major areas such as the environment, politics, health, religion, architec-ture, art, and music to discern the most important influences upon the world. It is important because we all respond to color in a very personal way based upon our lives, as can be seen in the color of clothes we wear, the color of our homes and offices, our cars, etc.

TH&L: as a designer, how do you use color forecasts? what resources (publications, etc.) do you consult for color?

JD: As a designer, I use color forecasts especially when planning a project that will not be completed immediately. Many of my interior design projects take months, and often years. Consulting color forecasts helps to ensure the work will look fresh and new when the project is completed. Any time I am working on a showhouse or Parade of Homes project, it is important to keep forecasts in mind because the public attends these events looking for the newest colors and products. As a resource, I often refer to publications by the paint manufacturers since they have staffs concerned with this very issue.

TH&L: where do you look to predict future color trends? what are some common indicators?

JD: Being aware of what is going on in the world is an excellent way to predict future color trends. The economy and environment are common indicators. Years ago in a color seminar, I heard that you can simply watch

the color of plastics, everything from a plastic tub or laundry basket to table-ware, and you will see color trends emerging because of the manufacturing processes required to make certain changes.

TH&L: Describe a real life example of a color trend evolving?

JD: When green building started emerging as critically important for our environment, the color green became very dominant.

TH&L: what colors are “hot” right now?

JD: Currently, I am seeing blues and oranges as the emerging “hot” colors. Gray is also being used extensively in more contemporary environments.

TH&L: what is your personal color forecast for the upcoming year and your reasoning behind it?

JD: Personally, I think we will see more red, white, and blue for a variety of reasons. The country is going through some difficult times, which has awakened an awareness of patriotism. Red, white, and blue may present themselves in a range shades from spicy red–orange to a true red, or from a watery periwinkle blue to a cobalt blue. Whites can vary immensely and are generally considered a safe color.

TH&L: Currently turquoise is a very popular color in design. where did this come from?

JD: Turquoise is a beautiful clear color that pairs easily with many other

Predicting a Colorful Future

TH&L’s editor Tavaner Bushman discusses the art and science of color forecasting with Austin-designer, and color expert Jackie Depew, ASID.


I mentioned earlier with the brighter accents of variations on reds and blues.

TH&L: global Color Research, in its Mix Trends issue 20, predicts the following color palettes for spring/summer 2011. Do you concur? how might you incorporate these into your work?

Whisper: With a soft, smoky palette, Whis-per draws inspiration from transparent and fluid elements of nature. In a world surrounded by concern and doubt, ‘Whisper’ offers a dream-like state to escape.

Spirit: Steeped in folklore, Spirit is a hom-age to the coming of spring. The message is simple. Fresh nature, fresh colors, rustic textures and hand crafted objects. A return to our roots.

Genteel: Genteel takes us on a journey through a traditional domestic setting where comfort is derived through familiar settings. With a largely neutral palette, drama is evoked through key highlights: carmine, scarlet and gold. A classic mood prevails.

Risk: Sci-fi meets low-fi in a reflection of our troubled times. As the old decays and collapses, our post-industrial society embraces the beauty of dereliction, while melding it with the modern and futuristic. The result: toxic color and science fiction references.

JD: Global Color Research has done extensive studies to come up with these color palettes for 2011. Notice that the Whisper colors are soft and smoky. Those kinds of colors are easier to live with for a long time, are safe, and can be used with many brighter accent colors as the times change and people are more secure. I will use these colors for main wall colors or flooring.

The Spirit colors come from many of the emerg-ing countries that we now do business with in the global economy. They are brighter, spicier, and the textures are more rustic. I often use these colors and will continue to in 2011.

Genteel gives us comfort from its familiarity. Deep reds and golds - the classic color scheme - will return, and watch for the return of golds in hardware.

The Risk colors open new horizons and pro-vide excitement. As the economy revives, look for these colors, espe-cially in commercial interior design. TH&L

Obsession™ Nandina

Upright and compact, Obsession’s bright red new growth offers richer colorthan similar nandinas.




71088_may.indd 1 3/22/10 2:40 PM

colors that are very popular right now, such as spice, orange, or brown.

TH&L: what colors are you naturally drawn to?

JD: I am naturally drawn to red. A little bit of red can go a long way and I love to use it as an accent.

TH&L: how has the economic turmoil of the last year affected how you use color and how your clients respond to color?

JD: The recent economic turmoil has caused me to be more conservative with color. I was not aware of it until you asked me this question, but I have begun to use neutrals more often for large expansive areas with accents of brighter colors that can be changed more readily. If someone is remodeling a home for sale in this real estate market, I recommend neutral tans or grays for the main wall colors with off-white trim and their personal tastes of color to be expressed in the furnishings. For my clients who plan to stay in their homes, they have been most receptive to the use of stronger colors reflective of their personalities.

TH&L: how do color trends relate to or pair with other design trends?

JD: Color trends come out first in the fashion industry, long before home furnishings. Even the automobile industry seems to follow the same trends.

TH&L: what colors never go out of vogue?

JD: In my opinion, black and red never go out of vogue. Depending on the application, even a small amount of black or red can have a dra-matic impact on a space.

TH&L: pantone’s Fashion Color Forecast included the following: Vibrant brights consisting of tur-quoise, amparo Blue, Violet, aurora, Fusion Coral, tomato puree; and practical neutrals for the conscious consumer including pink Cham-pagne, tuscany (a warm beige), Dried herb (green neutral), and eucalyptus (practical gray). are you seeing any of these colors in interior design? if so, where and how are they being used?

JD: The colors Pantone includes in a forecast always appear. I’m seeing all of these in paints, fabrics, tile accents, furniture, and accessories. The Dried Herb and Eucalyptus are the neutrals

Jackie Depew

design TEXAS1 Pride of Persia Rug Co. offers an extraordinary collection of hand-woven rugs from antique to contemporary to custom at their Houston Design Center showroom. ASID Industry Partner and BBB member. Appointments requested. 7026 Old Katy Rd., Ste. 164, Houston, TX 77024 (713) 522-7870, prideofpersia.com

2 Estancia Home Collection is one of Austin’s best-kept secrets; located across from the Hill Country Galleria. Their vintage showroom includes solid hardwood dining tables handcrafted in Patagonia, Chile, unique custom upholstery, and dis-tinctive accessories. 12703 Highway 71 W., Bee Caves, TX 78738, (512) 263-8781

3 Hall Lighting and Design has a great solution created to protect you and your furniture from the brutal Texas summer sunshine: a fabulous selection of Hunter Douglas window shadings that reduce inte-rior heat and protects valuable furnishings from the sun’s damaging rays. Hundreds of out-of-town customers have made the short drive to their 12,000-square-foot showroom in Victoria. Find out why at hallelectric.com.

4 By Design Interiors, Inc. believes that design does more than contribute to our quality of life; in many ways, design char-acterizes our quality of life. BDI has been committed for over 20 years to enhancing the quality of life for each client and will continue to do so well into the future. (281) 587-8755, bydesigninteriors.com

5 Design House, Inc. features a chic custom, silk, striped upholstered side chair with an eglomise mirrored back and gilded pewter finish that would serve as a beauti-ful accent piece in a living area or create a unique and stunning dining room setting. 7026 Old Katy Rd, Ste. 115, Houston, TX 77024, (713) 803.4949, designhousetx.com

6 Transform your home by residing with James Hardie® siding products with Color-Plus® technology, which is a multi-coat, baked-on color system applied in a con-trolled factory setting. Unlike paint, the color is always applied in the perfect condi-tions to endure. Forgetpainting.com

1

2

3

4

5

6


design TEXAS1 Pride of Persia Rug Co. provides a full range of rug wash and restoration services. Spring cleaning means taking great care of your beautiful rugs. Appoint-ments requested. ASID Industry Partner and BBB member. 7026 Old Katy Rd., Ste. 164, Houston, TX 77024 (713) 522-7870, prideofpersia.com

2 The Arbor Gate features A Perfect Pear products from Napa Valley that do not contain chemicals or preservatives. Now the home chef can create gourmet meals to impress with minimal time and effort. Find this product and more for your home and garden at The Arbor Gate. 15635 FM 2920, Tomball, TX 77377, (281) 351-8851, arborgate.com.

3 Out Back Patio Furnishings is your single source solution to creating your ideal outdoor living space. They can provide you with a distinctive style from any of their designer lines such as Ebel, Mallin, Homecrest, Hanamint and more. Visit their 9000-square-foot showroom. Marble Falls, TX, (830) 798-9761, outbackunlimited.com

4 At Depew Design Interiors, the goal is to help you achieve the results you want for your design projects. By combining their passion for interior design with your dreams, they can produce spaces that are both func-tional and attractive. Contact Jackie Depew at (512) 347.9876 or [email protected]. Visit depewdesign.com.

5 Bijan Rugs, family owned and operated, is one of the oldest rug dealers in Austin. They imports rugs from all over the world, and with over 50,000 rugs in stock, have one of the largest selections in Texas. 3010 W. Anderson Lane, Ste. I, Austin, TX 78757, (512) 302-9191, rugsbybijan.com

6 Gary Riggs Interiors maintains one of most diverse inventories of fine home fur-nishing offered in the market. They also offer quite the collection of abstract art and have become recognized as the place to go for com-plete home installations that take days rather than months. Allen and Dallas Showrooms, (214) 547-1054, garyriggsinteriors.com.

4

6

3

2

1

5


Home Fragrances | Exclusive Table Top Accessories | Elegant Home DécorExceptional Bath Products | Bridal Registry | Baby Gifts | Books

Gourmet Items | Women’s Fine Accessories

210 South Main Street, Boerne, Texas 78006 | (830) 331-9272 | www.LasFinezas.com

KRANTZ RECOVERED WOODSWood, the way it used to be.

www.KrantzRecoveredWoods.com

Jimmy’s CypressCypress wood products for every need.

www.Jimmys-Cypress.com

Since 1998 | 1-888-242-1050 | Austin, TX

Flooring BeamsMillworkSidingLumber

Reclaimed Longleaf Pine Reclaimed Cypress Reclaimed OakNew Cypress

Come relax in the shade, enjoy an ice-cold soft drink, have a one-of-a-kind sandwich from our enticing lunch menu, and savor some of our freshly-baked treats. Save time to shop our irresistible collection of gifts and fine food items!

Beautiful Outdoor PatioGifts & Gourmet SpecialtiesFull Service Post OfficeHunting & Fishing Licenses

285 Camp Verde Road East,Camp Verde, Texas 78010 | 830-634-7722 Open Daily 9am - 6pm | CampVerdeGeneralStore.com

Lunch served daiLy from 11am - 3pm

History is just the beginning…a unique experience awaits you today!


design TEXAS1 Grand Openings, Inc. offers the best selection of elegant windows and doors for your next residential or commercial project. With showrooms in Dallas, Aus-tin, and Houston, they invite you to visit and see the timeless beauty found only through superior crafted materials. gran-dopenings.com

2 Rios Interiors has grown to become a leader in Southwestern, ranch, and rus-tic styles of furniture and accessories for modern living. New collections arrive often with new flare and charm. Visit their 20,000-square-foot showroom at the Stockyard Historic District located at 2465 N. Main St., Fort Worth, TX 76164, (817)-626-8600, riosinteriors.com.

3 The Chelsea Bed featured in the mas-ter bedroom of the Women’s Symphony League of Austin Showhouse at The Aus-tonian, is available in your choice of fabric or leather and a variety of finishes. The bed is from the Thomas O’Brien Collec-tion for Hickory Chair Co. which includes designs that appeal to both transitional and contemporary tastes. Austin, Houston, and Beaumont; alysonjon.com.

4 The Phylrich Amphora collection’s transitional style is inspired by ancient vessels with a silhouette that beautifully blends modern utility and time-honed art pieces. Amphora, offered in 24 authen-tic Phylrich finishes, is the luxury col-lection that designers seek, homeowners desire, and houseguests admire. Available at Pierce Hardware. Dallas, (214) 368-2851; Fort Worth, (817) 737-9090.

5 Rutherford’s features a new Donna Sofa, a streamlined camel back sofa that is per-fect for a contemporary or traditional look. It measures 16 inches wide by 36 inches deep by 41 inches high. 5417 W. Lover Lane, Dallas, TX 75209, (214) 357-0888, rutherfordsdesign.com.

2

1

4

5

3

design TEXAS1 Home Elevator of Texas offers a vari-ety of specialty elevators and lifts like this custom 950-pound capacity elevator specifically designed for a multi-level boat. They offer other specialty lifts like outdoor stairway lifts, trams, and garage attic mate-rial lifts. Homeelevator.com

2 J. Douglas Design, located in the heart of Uptown and Turtle Creek area of Dallas, offers this beautiful original oil painting of mother and child. The beautiful work of art measures 63 inches wide by 78 inches high. You will find this and many other original works of art both traditional and contemporary at J. Douglas Design. 3301 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, TX 75219, (214) 522-8100

3 JEIDesign specializes in upscale resi-dential design and project planning. Julie Evans and her team enjoy creating inte-riors reflective of the people who live in them and achieve an elegant balance of classical and contemporary design. (512) 330-9179, julieevans.net

4 The Hästens Store Dallas provides a relaxed, comfortable environment to experience their handcrafted beds from Sweden. The beds are comprised of natu-ral materials like cotton, wool, flax, and horsehair. Offered in a variety of styles, firmnesses, and colors each bed gives superb support with unparalleled comfort. All standard sizes of beds and custom-sizing are available. 4252A Oak Lawn Ave., in The Shops of Highland Park. (214) 252-0101, mydreambed.com, [email protected].

5 Jane Page Design Group showcases an award-winning outdoor kitchen designed with a tiered wall and a pizza oven that serves as the focal point of the kitchen area. The fireplace faced in a white Texas limestone serves at the focal point of the conversation area. 500 Durham Drive, Houston, TX 77007, (713) 803-4999, janepagedesigngroup.com.

5

3

2

1

4


Take an ordinary journey to an extraordinary place

15635 F.M. 2920 • Tomball, Texas 77377

www.arborgate.com • 281-351-8851

fantasy windows are simulated windows made of maintenance-free vinyl and opaque plexi-glass

fantasy windows inca touch of class

fantasywindowsinc.com

• dedicated to providing quality simulated windows

• improve the appearance of the building

• installed on the outside wall with-out interfering with valuable inside wall space

• more bang for your buck!

573.789.6069

Fantasy Windows, Inc. | 8 Larkin Lane | St. Louis, MO 63128

FINE properties1 This classic Hal Thompson 1930s Tudor has been renovated and expanded over the years in keeping with the original design. The residence has four bedrooms, 4 baths, a formal room, library, guest room, sunroom, cabana, pool, three room quarters, and a basement. Located at 3835 Shenandoah St., Dallas, TX, $3,495,000. Contact Pete Ryan at (214) 957-3547 or [email protected], or Suzie Ryan at (972) 380-7769 or [email protected], susieandpeteryan.com.

1

Kitchens + Baths1 The Kitchen Source, an exclusive Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry dealer, special-izes in cabinets, appliances (including Sub-Zero/Wolf and Miele), countertops, plumbing fixtures, and any remodeling needs. The kitchen is not the only place where they can provide cabinetry; they can extend their expertise to other areas of the home as well. For the homeowner who wants a hassle free, one-stop shopping experience, The Kitchen Source has the product and staff to complete any look and provide you with the very best. 1544 Slo-cum St., Dallas, TX 75207 (214) 741-1912, thekitchensource.net

2 The new Jenn-Air® luxury appliance collection raises the bar on performance and design. Since introducing the first self-ventilated cooktop in 1961 and down-draft ventilated range in 1965, Jenn-Air has consistently grown its reputation as a technology and design innovator. Discover the new Jenn-Air at jennair.com.

3 Smart Divide kitchen sinks by KOHLER feature dividers that are half the height of those found in conventional double-basin sinks. It allows more room to soak pans, more room to fit larger cook-ware, more room to transfer across basins, and more room to fill pots. It’s innovative and functional. Visit Bath & Kitchen Showplace’s web site, bkshowplace.com, to find a location near you to learn more.

4 Miele’s award-winning suite of cooking, cooling, and cleaning appliances offers you the finest of companionship. Flaunt-ing flawless craftsmanship, seamless design lines, and intelligent, task-driven controls, you’re sure to be in good company with Miele. Explore further at ALNO | AUS-TIN, alnoaustin.com.

1

3

2

4

96 Texas Home & Living • May/June 2010 ©2010 Wood-Mode, Inc.

Reflect Your Own Personal Style

Stonehill by Wood-Mode.

For your home. For your life.For our environment.

www.thekitchensource.net

The Kitchen Source 1544 Slocum StreetDallas, Texas 75207214-741-1912

The Kitchen Source 3116 W. 6th StreetFort Worth, Texas 76107817-731-4299

LAG_229 1 4/9/10 10:53:18 AM

Precisely.An oven that listens to you?

® R

egis

tere

d T

rad

emar

k/™

Tra

dem

ark

of J

enn

-Air

, U.S

.A. ©

2010

. All

Rig

hts

Res

erve

d.

Our wall oven’s Culinary Center is expertly calibrated for a whole new level of precision. Simply tell it what you’re making, your desired doneness and cookware type for superior results every time. Experience it in action, and explore the next generation of Jenn-Air® appliances at an exclusive showroom below or online at jennair.com/walloven.

Introducing the industry’s best performing

wall oven. With the intuitive new Culinary Center.

Factory Builder Storesfactorybuilderstores.comNorth 281-477-6464 Galleria 713-572-4242

Tri-Supplytrisupplyhometeam.comHouston 713-896-3522

KIVA Kitchen & Bathkivahome.com Houston 713-781-2222The Woodlands 936-539-6336

Ferguson Bath & Kitchenferguson.comHouston 713-626-3300

WHJ105_JA_CC_TexasHL_EM.indd 1 3/19/10 10:04 AM

Documents

Texas Home & Living - May/June 2010