By Donna Cornelius Interior designer Perry Umphrey has been a part of the Decorators’ ShowHouse for almost two decades. “I participated for two years as a student and then did my own room for the first time in 2001,” Umphrey said. This year, he has a new role in the Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s annual fundraiser. He’s co-chairing the event with Molly Bee Bloetscher. The … [Read more...]
Gathering Place: Birmingham Wholesale Furniture Creates ShowHouse Keeping Room
By Donna Cornelius Keeping rooms can be traced back to 18th century America. But they’re almost as popular today as they were in Colonial times. Originally, keeping rooms – spaces built as part of or adjacent to the kitchen – took advantage of the heat created by wood stoves and provided a warm place to eat, do chores and even sleep. Today, these rooms are still hot spots. … [Read more...]
Hollywood Fan Club: House Tour Opens Doors Into Historic Homewood Neighborhood
By Donna CorneliusIt didn’t take Dana Garvin long to become a firm fan of one of Homewood’s most popular neighborhoods.“I’ve lived in Birmingham most of my life but just moved to Hollywood about four years ago, and I absolutely love it,” she said. “This neighborhood is the perfect combination of charm and history while being close to the newest … [Read more...]
Pretty and Practical: The Pearsons’ Bonita Drive House Is Stylishly Family-Friendly
By Donna CorneliusOne of the stars on this year’s Historic Hollywood Tour of Homes is a house that manages to be fashionable, functional and family-friendly.Mary Scott and Blake Pearson’s home at 9 Bonita Drive was built in 1926. Its original owners were Laura B. and Fay B. Belt, who lived there until 1947. The house, called the Bailey-Hardin House in honor of two … [Read more...]
The Gumbo Games: Cooks Will Roux the Day at Episcopal Place’s Annual Competition
By Donna Cornelius Home cooks and professional chefs will stir the pots at a heated competition April 21. More than 40 cooking teams will compete at Gumbo Gala, Episcopal Place’s annual fundraiser. The 13th annual edition of the event is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham. Those who attend can gobble up gumbo samples, listen to music from Margaux and the … [Read more...]