Place
The for Design
We really tie the room together.
Crafting a beautiful home goes beyond excellent design—it's about creating a space and lifestyle that reflect who you are. Find LillieKat Rugs adorning the floors of Design Supply and Odette. Style your coffee table with captivating reads from The Little Professor, and be ready to host with handcrafted wreaths, florals, and décor from the talented makers at FarmStand. At Pepper Place, we have mastered the art of curating—your home, wardrobe, well-being, and table—so you can enjoy a beautiful life.
Pepper Place Birmingham’s Design District
Dear Reader,
In this issue, we hope to celebrate the creative heartbeat of Pepper Place. It features our district's design leaders who are transforming not only Pepper Place but our larger community, proving that innovation has the power to tell compelling stories and foster meaningful connections.
Pepper Place has been a legacy project for me and all of us at Sloss Real Estate. One of the most rewarding aspects of redeveloping historic buildings is collaborating with architects, planners, landscape architects, interior designers, and others to reimagine spaces—layering texture and color to create movement, bringing them to life. We are proud of how beautifully our district keeps getting better!
Since our doors opened over 37 years ago, sustainability has been a guiding principle. Pepper Place is a testament to collaborative, thoughtful design—from the repurposed buildings that house our community to our tenants' carefully curated goods and services. Our love of the arts is woven into everything we do, along with the art of reinvention, the entrepreneurial spirit, and the creative contributions of designers, wellness experts, chefs, retailers, and makers.
This spring, with the opening of Laura Vogtle's new retail space, Odette, and with the Dr Pepper Building housing some of Birmingham's most influential designers in the region, we've chosen to dedicate this issue of The Place to the creative visionaries who help define our district.
As you'll see, we are shaping a place that inspires, connects, and elevates everyday life. We hope this guide sparks ideas for your next project and offers a fresh perspective for an upcoming special event. Most of all, we hope you will come experience Pepper Place for yourself—adorn your home, enjoy a cocktail, and dine at a James Beard Awardwinning restaurant. Your presence adds to the magic that happens here every day.
Experience first-hand why Pepper Place is Birmingham's ultimate design destination. Come see what we're made of.
Sincerely,
Cathy Sloss Jones PRESIDENT AND CEO, SLOSS REAL ESTATE
Pictured, front cover: Architect James Laughlin of James B. Laughlin Architectural Design Photographed by Stacy K Allen
Hello, Odette!
Vogtle of Design Supply welcomes a new shop to the Pepper Place family.
Laura
Odette
Design Supply
"Where I truly thrive is when a client places their trust in me to design a space that feels authentic to its surroundings.
Whether it's a mountain home in North Carolina or a beach house in Florida—each space is crafted to tell a story that is unique to its location."
– Laura Vogtle, owner of Design Supply and Odette
Laura understands that a home should be more than just beautiful—it should reflect the client’s personality and needs. Her approach blends timeless antiques with modern features, creating elegant, livable interiors.
When working with a client, Laura aims to understand how they move through their space. From there, she refines their vision with thoughtful solutions that work for everyday life and special occasions. "I have five grown children, so I understand the importance of practical design choices that make sense for a busy home. At the same time, I ensure every space remains stylish, creating environments that my clients can truly be proud of."
Laura's creative vision extends beyond private residences. She is the force behind Design Supply, an 8,500-square-foot art gallery and design store brimming with color and unique finds. It's the go-to destination when searching for the perfect finishing touches for your home, from a stunning piece of original art to a pair of patterned chairs that add character and charm.
Recently opened, Laura is introducing Odette to the Birmingham community—a stylish and sophisticated twin sister to Design Supply. Odette offers a meticulously curated selection of upholstered furniture and timeless antiques, helping clients bring together every detail of their home. Odette, located in the former Richard Tubb space, hopes to continue the legacy of beautiful interiors that Richard created at Pepper Place so long ago.
With these impressive retail and design services, it is truly a team effort. "None of this would be possible without my incredible team of 16—they are the backbone of everything I do. Collaborating with such a talented and dedicated group, including my two sons and daughter-in-law, makes this journey even more rewarding. Their passion, hard work, and commitment inspire me daily and keep everything running seamlessly."
@odette.furniture
odettefurniture.com
Design Supply
@designsupplyshop
designsupplyshop.com
Odette
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Timeless Design, Thoughtful Curation
Julie Terrell Design
Julie Terrell's background in art history plays a pivotal role in her approach. Studying composition, scale, color theory, and world history has given her a deep understanding of how materials and architecture interact across cultures and periods. She applies this knowledge to design timeless and contemporary spaces, seamlessly integrating existing furnishings with custom pieces that elevate the home beyond trends.
"All great design starts from the user's perspective," Julie shares. "It's not only about how a space looks; it's about how it serves those living there. I create refined yet livable interiors that enhance daily life and remain relevant for years."
A hallmark of her work is her commitment to going beyond aesthetics. She prioritizes craftsmanship, longevity, and sustainability, ensuring every detail reflects her clients' architecture and personal style. Julie frequently collaborates with Birmingham's artisans to design custom furnishings— cabinetry, tables, upholstered pieces, and more—ensuring that each piece is made with care, quality, and durability in mind. This commitment to bespoke design allows her to create interiors as personal as they are enduring.
Julie's design process is as much about listening as it is about creating. "A home should support its owners in living their best lives," she explains. "Understanding
a client's daily rhythms, needs, and priorities allows me to craft a practical and inspiring design."
Looking ahead, Julie dreams of designing a coastal home meant to be passed down for generations. "A project like that requires thought, intention, and care—qualities that define my process," she shares.
"Sustainability isn't just about materials; it's about creating spaces people love and want to preserve."
Through her thoughtful approach and commitment to timeless design, Julie Terrell continues to shape interiors that are not just visually stunning but stand the test of time.
Headshot by Jean Allsopp, Vertical Photo with Bar Cart, Chairs and Hide Rugs by Hector Sanchez
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@heatherchadduck
heatherchadduck.com
Designing with History: Heather Chadduck Hillegas
Heather Chadduck Hillegas is a designer known for her career-spanning editorial and interior design with a remarkable ability to transform spaces with sophistication and ease. Her impeccable attention to detail and appreciation for Southern heritage result in timeless and livable homes. Playing with pattern and color is quintessential to her design aesthetic, and she is known for layering textiles, wallpapers, and upholstery to create vibrant interiors.
Raised in a Virginia home built in the 1830s, Heather's passion for historic architecture runs deep. Her approach to design honors a home's past while making it feel fresh and functional for modern living. A good example of this is her love of incorporating twin beds. She frequently uses twin beds in guest rooms, drawn to their charm and versatility. With classic lines and beautifully layered bedding, she makes them feel effortlessly chic—much like Heather, always well-curated and polished.
As a creative businesswoman, Heather utilizes an extensive network of vendors, artisans, bespoke furniture makers, antique dealers, and upholsters for every commission. She has further expanded her design resources by launching her own line of textiles, adding a layer of versatility and personalization to her projects; view her line at heatherchadducktextiles.com.
Beyond interior design work, Heather is widely published and celebrated across print and digital platforms. She has been featured in many industry-leading publications and is recognized across the design community as a visionary. A testament to her influence and expertise, she recently joined the prestigious, invitation-only Design Leadership Network.
From Southern estates to charming retreats, Heather Chadduck Hillegas brings artistry and elegance to her interior designs. Her ability to blend history, craftsmanship, and beauty ensures that each space she touches is exquisite and inviting.
Photographed by Annie Schlecter, courtesy of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Styling by Rachael Burrow.
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Ciara Word of Word Interiors
"My style is your style."
Ciara Word of Word Interiors has built a reputation for creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Her design philosophy reflects the client's personality and lifestyle to ensure the space feels catered to the homeowner's everyday needs.
Ciara draws inspiration from the thriving design community in Birmingham, where local artisans, architects and makers shape the landscape. These moments of collaboration allow Ciara to craft projects with custom, one-of-a-kind pieces. "Sourcing locally eliminates parts of the supply chain issues that come with mass production, not to mention supports our community," Ciara explains.
One of Word Interiors' signature styles is her love for texture. Layering textile varieties enhance a space's depth and character. As she puts it, "design is about creating a room that you long to be in. We create spaces that are a representation of YOU—places that
bring you solace, energize you, or serve as your backdrop for making memories with family and friends."
One interiors trend Ciara is particularly excited about is using game tables. As more clients look to create spaces for entertaining, game tables have become a fun and functional addition, offering a spot for mahjong and puzzles with friends and family. On a similar entertaining note, Ciara hopes to take on more hospitality projects in the future, from restaurants and hotels to retail boutiques that allow for the opportunity to craft immersive environments.
As Ciara prepares for a personal move to North Alabama to be closer to family, she embarks on her own design journey by working on her new home. Even with this, her commitment to the Birmingham design community remains strong, and she plans to keep her design studio at Pepper Place, continuing to create personalized spaces for clients.
Interior photography by Jean Allsopp
Headshot by Christina Hontzas
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carolinegidiere.com
@carolinegidieredesign
A Curated Life with Caroline Gidiere Design
Over her lifetime, Caroline Gidiere has developed an eye for design. From attending school in Paris, where she studied architecture, art, and literature, to extensive travels, she is known for her beautiful interiors with a keen eye for style, reflecting her clients' unique personalities. Caroline also has an extensive background in the business world, providing over a decade of project management experience,
allowing her to navigate and stay organized for her business and clients.
Caroline likes to mix contemporary and antique furniture with joyful colors and patterned backdrops to create a fun mix of modern and classical—florals, botanical prints, baskets, tailored stripes, well-stocked bars, books, and comfortable pillows. The art of “a curated life” includes
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more than just a well-decorated interior; it is about welcoming guests into an inviting space, looking the part and serving items that reflect that same elegance and warmth.
To learn more about Caroline, purchase her book, Interiors for a Life in Good Taste. It offers a fresh perspective on classic American interior design and living well in our modern world.
The Art of Reimagining with Interior Designer Meredith
Sherrill
Meredith Sherrill sees interior design as an opportunity to reimagine how spaces can inspire and function. With a refined aesthetic, her work blends architectural precision with the organic beauty of natural materials and unexpected contrasts.
Influenced by the idea that imperfections hold beauty, Meredith often incorporates historical pieces into her design. Whether it’s the warmth of reclaimed wood or locally sourced Alabama marble, her
creations celebrate craftsmanship and authenticity.
Space planning is a passion of hers, especially when it comes to reworking outdated layouts. She finds inspiration from driving around Birmingham and looking at the many examples of beautiful architecture. From this inspiration, Meredith finds joy in creating a home with effortless flow, connecting and bringing purpose to each room.
Photography by Stacy K Allen
Interior photography by Isabel Parra
The Art of Timeless Living at FOUND
Established on the belief that antiques should be accessible to everyone, FOUND offers a thoughtfully curated collection of English, French and American antiques, as well as vintage furnishings, art, objects, and modern pieces seamlessly woven in.
FOUND has built a devoted following of collectors and interior designers alike. “Designers often come to us searching for a specific piece with unique size requirements,” says Sonia Davis, owner of FOUND. “It’s always a fun and incredibly fulfilling challenge when we discover the perfect fit. The thrill of the hunt never gets old.”
For those who share a passion for antique hunting, FOUND welcomes you to explore its ever-changing collection through showroom events every other month or by private appointment. To schedule an appointment, simply email hello@foundbham.com.
"The thrill of the hunt never gets old."
Featured on our front cover, James B. Laughlin
is an architect and founder of a multi-disciplinary residential design firm specializing in renovations and new construction. Renowned for crafting classic, refined spaces, his firm delivers thoughtfully curated residences and transformations.
For inquiries, contact info@jamesblaughlin.com.
jamesblaughlin.com @jamesblaughlin
foundbham.com
MARTIN BISCUIT ANNEX
@foundbham Headshot by Stacy K Allen
Ferguson
Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery has been a cornerstone of the Birmingham community since 1953.
Exciting changes are on the horizon at their Pepper Place location—stay tuned as their showroom gets a fresh new look!
After working in the stone industry for over 15 years, Vinny Tavares envisioned a company where consumers could not only shop for stone but truly enjoy the process. He wanted to create an inspiring showroom where questions about pricing could be answered on the spot and where selecting the perfect countertops, vanity tops, slabcovered shower walls, or stone-clad fireplaces felt effortless. That vision became Encore Stone Studio—a place where premium natural stone and quartz, sourced from Spain, Italy, and Brazil, are made accessible through expert guidance and a seamless buying journey.
While walk-ins are welcome, the best experience begins with a personalized consultation with their team—either in-person or virtually— where clients can explore materials, layouts, and design possibilities. To refine selections, Encore encourages clients to bring paint samples, drawings, or inspiration photos. Once the perfect stone is chosen, Encore provides recommendations for trusted fabricators and contractors skilled in expert stone installation. By working alongside your contractor, you can achieve a seamless, wellexecuted design that reflects both beauty and functionality.
An interior designer isn’t required, but Encore frequently collaborates with designers, offering technical insights and support to bring their concepts to life. With a commitment to quality, each hand-selected stone undergoes rigorous inspection to ensure lasting splendor and performance.
Curious about the story behind the quarries where these stones originate? Stop by to hear the fascinating journey of each piece and discover Encore Stone Studio’s passion for the art of stone.
Stone Studio
The Art of Stone with Encore
Interior photography by Nick Cann
JP Howard Photography
JP Howard is a dedicated and everevolving portrait photographer, committed to mastering her craft. As the only Alabama Associate in The Headshot Crew and a newly minted Master in The Portrait System, her journey reflects both an unrelenting work ethic and a passion for continuous learning.
Her latest project, The Faces Campaign, is a striking celebration of individuality. These black-and-white, studio-captured portraits strip away distractions, allowing personality and expression to take center stage. With only soft edits, each image preserves a raw, authentic essence.
jphowardphotography.com
JP’s love for headshots is inspired by some of the most iconic photographers in history. She draws from Annie Leibovitz’s mastery of editorial storytelling, as well as the intimate, close-up styles of Platon, Martin Schoeller, and Richard Avedon. She brings a fresh perspective to portraiture, offering clients the chance to step into the frame and experience a session that is both artistic and deeply personal.
JP Howard Photography invites you to be part of her creative journey. Book your session now and see yourself through the lens of an artist dedicated to capturing your true spirit in the form of a headshot.
@jphowardphotography
FRED | Communication by Design
In the heart of every thriving community lies a story—a narrative shaped by the people who inhabit it, the spaces they share, and the connections that bind them together.
FRED is a design agency that believes in placemaking through the power of storytelling, transforming places into meaningful environments that inspire, engage, and connect. The tight-knit team, led by President Derick Belden and Design Directors Blayne Ward
and Michael Vizzina, offers a hands-on and nimble creative approach that sets them apart from many larger agencies.
One of their most rewarding types of working relationships is when they partner with local businesses who need help taking their business to the next level. Through a mix of focused design and creative business strategy, FRED shows them how to present their story on a bigger stage while still doing what they do best as a company.
Scan to book your portrait session or corporate headshot session today.
Besides their work building the Pepper Place brand (including this Design Guide - hello!) the team is behind work you may have seen all around Birmingham, such as the handdrawn posters outside of the Lyric Theatre, branding and wayfinding for CityWalk, The Star, Parkside District, the Denham Building, and more.
FRED is driven by the idea that places should do more than just exist—they should speak, inspire, and connect.
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Annie Kammerer Butrus:
Exploring Place Through Color & Memory
Annie Kammerer Butrus’s work examines our perception of place, documenting how landscapes evolve and the emotions those changes evoke. Through painting and printmaking, she captures transformation, memory, and connection.
Her ongoing project, Color Response, Interim (How Are You Feeling Today?), is a free community art initiative that explores emotional responses through color. Participants select two colors they’re drawn to, which Annie then translates into a watercolor study. This evolving collection, which began with
medical professionals, teachers, and students, is archived at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Libraries, Historical Collections.
Annie’s work has received international recognition and is featured in collections across the world. Most recently, she was invited to participate in the 2024 European Cultural Centre’s Personal Structures exhibition. Her featured piece, Internal: External, was exhibited in historic venues across Venice, including Palazzo Bembo, Palazzo Mora, and Marinaressa Gardens.
anniekammererbutrus akbutrus.com
COMING SOON | SPRING 2025
Robbie McGiboney of Alchemy Spa
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The Art of Wellness
For Robbie McGiboney, owner of Alchemy Spa, the journey into holistic massage therapy began in childhood. She first discovered the power of touch by massaging her mother, but it wasn't until her early twenties, when a massage relieved her own back pain, that she recognized its transformative potential. In 2001, she pursued formal training and fell in love with the intricate connections between anatomy, physiology, and healing.
Alchemy Spa was born from Robbie’s desire to inspire wellness on a deeper level. Her philosophy focuses on guiding people to slow down, embrace stillness, and reconnect with themselves. Curated treatments include customized massage therapy, energy healing, and seasonal rituals designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Her integrative techniques, which combine deep tissue work,
cupping, and heat therapy, have led to remarkable results, including pain relief and restored mobility.
To complement traditional medical care, Alchemy Spa supports clients in managing chronic conditions, post-surgical recovery, and stressrelated imbalances. These therapies help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and enhance the body's natural healing process. By partnering with physicians and local businesses, Robbie hopes to foster a deeper sense of community and create a thriving wellness network.
At Alchemy, every detail—from warm lighting to nature-inspired design and customized therapies—is intentionally crafted to create a sanctuary for relaxation and renewal. For Robbie, the art of wellness is about elevating self-care into something intentional, creative, and deeply personal.
The Art of Charcuterie
The Son of a Butcher
3RD AVE S #100
@thesonofabutcher_bham thesonofabutcher.com
The Son of a Butcher isn’t just a butcher shop—it’s a testament to flavor. A well-styled home is made for entertaining, and nothing sets the tone like a beautifully composed charcuterie board. With in-house cheesemonger John Litzinger at the helm, they’ve mastered the art of charcuterie, curating boards that are as stunning as they are delicious.
Recently named one of Garden & Gun’s Top Seven Southern Spots for
Cheese Lovers, The Son of a Butcher celebrates the intersection of culinary artistry and thoughtful presentation.
This board showcases standout cheeses like the rich Harbison (left), nutty Swallow Tail Tomme (top right), and striking Piper’s Pyramid (bottom right). John prefers to pair cheese with bright, acidic accoutrements like Castelvetrano olives, pickled okra, and cornichons to cut through the richness. Crunchy elements—crackers, nuts—add texture, while a selection of meats, from delicate prosciutto and speck to hearty salami, bresaola, and terrines, brings depth. Balancing acidity, crunch, and texture ensures every bite is dynamic and satisfying.
Whether gathering with friends or savoring a quiet moment, The Son of a Butcher elevates the everyday— one perfect bite at a time.
The Market at Pepper Place Cheers to 25
incredible years!
A true heartbeat of our district, the Market at Pepper Place has cultivated a space where food, craft, and community come together in the most vibrant way. Each Saturday, 7 am to 12 pm, rain or shine, the streets fill with the sights, sounds, and flavors of local farmers, makers, and artisans—connecting us all through the art of farming, food, and craft.
Congratulations to everyone—farmers, vendors, the incredibly hardworking market team, and loyal supporters—who have made this milestone possible. Here’s to another 25 years of fresh finds, meaningful connections, and celebrating the makers who bring our district to life every weekend.
Join us in celebrating by giving back! Your support ensures this essential community tradition thrives for another 25 years—connecting our region through its farmers, makers, and neighbors. Donate today and be a part of the market’s future!
Val Thomas, Board Chair of the Market, Photographed by Stacy K Allen
A
place built with intention. A district designed for what's next.
At Pepper Place, every space tells a story of design, curation, culture and community.
Rooted in Birmingham’s creative and cultural fabric, Sloss Real Estate is proud to develop a district that is home to some of the region’s most inspiring designers, makers, and businesses.
Explore leasing opportunities with Lochrane Chase, Director of Leasing and Business Development, lchase@slossrealestate.com.
For marketing & community collaborations, contact Erin Letts, Director of Marketing and Design, at eletts@slossrealestate.com.
Scan below to stay connected, follow us on social and subscribe to the Pepper Place newsletter for updates on events, new openings, and more.
@pepperplacebham pepperplace.com