By Donna Cornelius Through her TV shows, website and magazine, Martha Stewart has taught even the least domestic among us how to bake the perfect pie, properly fold a fitted sheet, and fancy up our doors with seasonal wreaths. Next month, those who attend Antiques at The Gardens can learn from Stewart in person. She’ll headline the 13th edition of the annual antiques show and … [Read more...]
Messy Houseguest Catalyst for Home Remodel: Vestavia Hills Couple Update Their ’60s Home with Big Open Spaces
By Ingrid SchnaderA curious, enthusiastic dog was the catalyst for a long-delayed remodeling of a 1960s house in Vestavia Hills. Ron and Lu Ann Smith said they had wanted to remodel their house ever since they moved in 20 years ago, but converting the closed-in house to an open concept design would be a big project, and so the job never made it to the top of the to-do … [Read more...]
True to Life: Architect James Carter’s House Is Full of His History
By Donna Cornelius When architect James Carter meets with clients, he asks a question: What do you want your house to say about you? His own house makes a statement, but not in stark black-and-white terms. “I wanted to express the duality of my personality – casual and formal, city and country,” Carter said. Thus, the house he built three years ago in Mountain Brook is full … [Read more...]
Less Is More: OTM Builder Said Lake Living Is More Achievable Than Ever
By Sarah KuperMany families dream of one day spending long lazy summers at their own idyllic waterfront lake home.For young families, it is a distant dream as they save up to afford one by the time grandchildren come around but Vestavia Hills builder Cameron Eaton said it doesn’t have to be that way.“Young families, who by their mid-30s have … [Read more...]
A Garden Fit for a King or a Commoner Local Garden Designer Highlights Parterre Gardens
By Sarah Kuper With the Royal wedding approaching, monarchy admirers are turning an eye to all things regal, including elegant homes and gardens. But, when it comes to gardening like a sovereign, garden designer and planner Troy Rhone said royals really are just like us. The parterre garden concept is hundreds of years old, and the look can call to mind the gardens of … [Read more...]