Absolute Living

Absolute Indianapolis

Living

DECEMBER 2024

REDEFINING LUXURY DESIGN

THE NEW SMART STYLE

MARICEL HECIMOVICH

'ROUND THE TOWN WELLNESS INSIGHTS

INSPIRED BY CREATION

OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTS GROUP

INDY C U STO M POOLS

DESIGN • BUILD • NURTURE • SWIM

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE SINCE 2007

DESIGNED FOR YOUR LIFE

BY TRIPHASE. Take music and video from room to room. Beautifully illuminate your home and artwork with designer lighting. Suit your style with motorized shades, and control them automatically or with a touch. Enjoy immersive entertainment in your state-of-the-art media room, or take it outside to the patio for parties and memorable moments. We are the local experts for all things technology, and can help you create a home that works just the way you want.

10960 Bennett Pkwy

• Zionsville, IN 46077 • (317) 845-0236 •

triphase-tech.com

AUDIO | VIDEO | LIGHTING + SHADES | HOME THEATER | OUTDOOR LIVING | SECURITY | SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS | + MORE

December/2024

Photography By Gabrielle Noël

CONTENTS

18 THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA

39 THE NEW SMART STYLE

22 WELLNESS INSIGHTS

48 WOOD FIRED–REVIVAL

28 REDEFINING LUXURY DESIGN

54 'ROUND THE TOWN

'Tis the season to be jolly! Festive events, holiday shopping, sounds of the season and more await you and your family this most special time of year.

At Body Bar MD, Dr. Christy Watson blends traditional medicine with cutting-edge treatments, delivering truly personalized healthcare.

Classic European architecture meets Midwestern tranquility as designer Maricel Hecimovich blends timeless craftsmanship with nature's embrace.

Six industry leaders demonstrate how new technology is enhancing both form and function in contemporary design of luxury homes.

Carmel's beloved Pizzology returns with a renovated space, its original kitchen team and the house-made specialties your mouth has been missing.

From artisanal breads to decadent pastries and cakes, these local bakeries offer proof that life is sweeter with freshly baked treats.

Volume 18. Issue 11. (#200)

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Absolute Living

Editor-in-Chief EDUARDO PEÑA

Managing Editor JUSTYNA PEÑA

Assistant Editor MATTHEW HUME

Writer SUSAN SALAZ

Photography SARA ACKERMANN GABRIELLE NOËL

Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA

Social Media Specialist CHRISTIAN PEÑA

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Absolute Living Magazine is published monthly by Pena Group, Inc. Copyright by Pena Group, Inc. Absolute Living Magazine is a registered trademark of Pena Group, Inc.

The

Absolute

Living

AGENDA

By Susan Salaz

December

December 10 8FIFTEEN Holiday Party 8FIFTEEN 8fifteen.com Sip champagne and wrap up your shopping at 8FIFTEEN’s holiday soirée.

Owner Elizabeth Lechleiter's impeccable eye for style shines through this Broad Ripple boutique's curated collection of designer looks and gifts. Treat yourself to luxe loungewear or that show-stopping party dress while giving back, with a portion of profits benefiting The Julian Center.

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December 14 Glühwein Gallop 5K Run/Walk Carter Green carmelchristkindlmarkt.com Lace up your lederhosen for the Carmel Christkindlmarkt annual Glühwein Gallop 5K Run/Walk, named for the delicious mulled wine served in a special boot mug. This spirited winter race rewards adult participants with a complimentary serving of warm Glühwein or beer at the finish line, with hot cocoa for the kiddos.

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December 18 Women in Whiskey West Fork Whiskey westforkwhiskey.com Ladies, if you love whiskey, this one's for you! West Fork Whiskey Co., a local powerhouse revolutionizing Indiana's whiskey scene, presents an evening celebrating Women in Whiskey. Join fellow enthusiasts for a night of craft cocktails, distillery tours, and trivia highlighting women's contributions to whiskey-making.

December 21-24 Christmas Open House Mercantile 37 mercantile37.com

December 19 Winter Art Market Sun King Fishers fishersartcouncil.org Discover holiday treasures at the Winter Art Market, where Fishers Arts Council transforms Sun King's second floor into a vibrant marketplace. Browse handcrafted pieces from Indiana artists, including watercolors, fiber arts, woodcarvings and more—all part of The Yard at Fishers District's holiday festivities, complete with Santa visits, hot cocoa and carolers.

December 21 Men’s Brands Night Charles Mayer & Co. shop.charlesmayer.com Never know what to get the men in your life? Join Charles Mayer & Co.'s Men’s Brands Night, where owner Claudia Ryan presents an exceptional showcase of luxury essentials—from sophisticated staples like colognes and barware to unexpected finds like designer fire extinguishers. Sip bourbon and shop to make a difference—proceeds benefit Riley Children's Foundation.

Ring in the season at Mercantile 37's Christmas Open House, where local artisans and vintage vendors fill this charming marketplace with holiday magic. From gourmet pantry items and unique home goods to one-ofa-kind décor, you'll discover those perfect last-minute stocking stuffers and special somethings that make the holidays memorable.

December 31 Elton, Billy & Barry – They Write the Songs Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael feinsteinshc.com Finish 2024 in style at Feinstein's at Hotel Carmichael with Broadway veteran Craig A. Meyer. Experience beloved hits from Elton John, Billy Joel and Barry Manilow, brought to life through Meyer's masterful piano skills and showmanship in Carmel's most sophisticated venue.

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January 9 Java Trail Main Street, Zionsville zionsville-in.gov Zionsville's brick-lined streets transform into the inaugural Java Trail for one enchanting winter evening in January, when local businesses keep their doors open late, offering special coffeethemed treats, live music and aprèswork adventures. Register to receive your exclusive trail mug and map, then meander through the village shops and Lincoln Park.

Through March 1st The Ice Rink at Holliday Park Holliday Park hollidaypark.org Experience winter magic at Holliday Park's open-air ice rink, Indianapolis's newest seasonal tradition. Glide beneath the winter sky in this historic park setting, where John and Evaline Holliday's vision of recreation and nature continues to flourish. A perfect winter outing that gives back—all proceeds support the Holliday Park Foundation's community initiatives.

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By Susan Salaz

WELLNESS INSIGHTS A Q&A with Dr. Christine Watson of Body Bar MD Combining more than two decades of medical expertise with a patientfirst philosophy, Dr. Christy Watson of Body Bar MD in Carmel is pioneering an integrative approach to wellness.

Board-certified in both internal and obesity medicine, she seamlessly blends traditional medicine with cutting-edge treatments to deliver truly personalized healthcare at her innovative practice.

(promotional content)

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Q: Tell me about Body Bar MD… How is this practice different than a traditional doctor's office?

A: At Body Bar MD, our specialty is you. We take the time to listen to your whole story and identify the root causes of why you may not feel your best. Unlike traditional practices, we don't rush to prescribe medication without understanding the bigger picture.

We focus on uncovering underlying issues, whether they involve hormone imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, inflammation, or thyroid dysfunction. We believe that treating symptoms in isolation misses the broader context of your well-being, so we approach care comprehensively, understanding that every aspect of your health is interconnected.

Q: What is your care philosophy?

A: My care philosophy centers on listening to the whole story in a non-judgmental environment. I work with patients in a shared decision-making process to forge a path toward feeling better. I emphasize that this journey is not a quick fix but rather a longterm process of achieving and sustaining wellness.

Q: As an integrative medicine practitioner, how do you approach helping patients create sustainable health goals?

A: From the start, we emphasize that achieving health goals is a journey, not a sprint. Years of research show that small, consistent changes lead to lasting lifestyle improvements. We help patients identify and celebrate these incremental changes, fostering motivation and reinforcing progress.

If setbacks occur, we remind patients that these are part of life—one flat tire doesn't mean you slash the other three.

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Q: What advice do you have for maintaining wellness during the winter months?

A: Consistency is key, especially during the winter season. I recommend maintaining a regular schedule and prioritizing sleep, as our bodies often need extra rest during darker months. Rather than focusing solely on food choices during the holidays, I encourage patients to take a broader approach to wellness. This includes staying active, trying mood-boosting activities like red light therapy, and fostering a sense of community to avoid isolation. Remember, feeling a bit more down during winter is normal, and lifestyle changes often prove more effective than quick fixes.

Q: What's your advice for those setting health goals for 2025?

A: Wellness begins at home, not in a doctor's office. Simple changes can have profound impacts, like committing to eight hours of sleep, eating whole, unprocessed foods, and staying active. I encourage patients to move beyond quick-fix resolutions and instead create formal, manageable plans that lead to lasting changes. Remember, 92% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy, largely due to preventable conditions—this means that sustainable lifestyle changes are key to long-term success. As we move into 2025, the demand for lifestyle medicine will only grow. Our role as practitioners is to cut through misinformation and guide patients with evidence-based strategies, ensuring their wellness journey is both safe and successful.

To learn more about Body Bar MD's integrative wellness services, visit Dr. Christy Watson at 9650 Commerce Drive, Suite 511, in Carmel, explore bodybarmd.com and follow @bodybarmd on Instagram for wellness tips and patient success stories.

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Scan Here!

Redefining Luxury Design Maricel Hecimovich of M Interior Design Studio

By Susan Salaz | Photography By Gabrielle Noël | Artwork By Eduardo Peña

Where classic European architecture meets Midwestern tranquility, designer Maricel Hecimovich is reshaping luxury through intimate spaces that prioritize authenticity over excess. Through her signature Quiet Luxury Homes, she's creating sanctuaries that blend timeless craftsmanship with nature's embrace. (promotional content)

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ver steaming cups of tea in her warm, inviting Fishers studio on a rainy morning, Maricel Hecimovich shares her vision for redefining luxury in home design. The founder of M Interior Design Studio speaks with quiet passion about creating spaces that nurture both body and spirit, her philosophy emerging from years of observation and personal experience.

In an era of oversized showpiece homes, she is charting a different course, crafting intimate European-inspired spaces and prioritizing soul over square footage. Her philosophy blends classic architecture with natural surroundings to create homes that nurture both body and spirit.

"The word luxury has been carelessly thrown around in the building and design industry for some time now," she observes. "Anyone can use the term for the sake of attracting consumers, and that's because the ego loves that word. The ego tends to attach itself to people and objects that give it a sense of external validation."

Instead, Maricel focuses on crafting homes that exude quiet inner confidence and beauty, derived solely from authentic, one-of-a-kind craftsmanship. Her vision materializes in thoughtfully designed rooms with intricate, artistic details that evoke emotions and connect residents to their innermost selves. The interiors blend masculine and feminine elements through soft wallpapers, rich wood paneling, sumptuous textiles and carefully chosen antiquities, all nestled within classic European-inspired architecture.

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A Journey of Trust and Discovery Born in the Philippines, where childhood meant playing outside and experiencing constant electrical outages, Maricel's path to design excellence has been anything but linear. After immigrating to Hawaii at age eleven, she eventually found her way to Texas and then Chicago, before settling in Indiana. "I tried to leave at one point for the Arizona weather, but Indiana brought me back here," she reflects. "I truly believe there's a big reason for this, and I am allowing life to unfold organically."

While studying design, she apprenticed under celebrated designer Don Reid, whose sophisticated classic style initially clashed with her aesthetic. "At the time, our design taste did not mesh because I was young and naïve. His style was classic and sophisticated, and mine was all over the place," she admits, adding that she admires and respects his influence.

Later, at an architectural firm under mentor Gregg Bliss, she developed her technical expertise. "I was enthralled by how buildings were constructed and how the details came together," Maricel says. "I particularly enjoyed developing building sections and detail drawings,” as she explains how they challenge her to figure out how the components come together, like a puzzle, stimulating both her practical and logical sides.

The Art of Quiet Luxury Her distinctive approach emerged from deep observation of current trends and personal experience. "I see enormous houses that lack depth and character, but most importantly, they lack soul," she

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A dedicated advocate for connecting children with nature, Maricel Hecimovich—interior designer and mom of two—dreams of creating a year-round retreat where kids can freely express themselves through art, music and unstructured play.

She envisions a small farmhouse surrounded by animals, gardens and treehouses. In this place, children can experience the pure bliss of living in the present moment, free from schedules and daily distractions.

A deep believer in nature's restorative power, Maricel Hecimovich brings this energy-conscious philosophy to each of her design projects, explaining that, "The intention is freedom and encouraging a healthy way of living by being one with nature."

observes. "I have seen too many friends and acquaintances suffer through spending millions of dollars on building custom homes, only to end up with an empty giant box."

Through her signature end-to-end service, Quiet Luxury Homes, Maricel creates classic European-inspired residences from the ground up that emphasize quality craftsmanship and mindful living. "I chose the classic style because I feel like the Midwest offers so much greenery that these homes will fit right in," she explains. "This style can serve as a timeless shell for any interior—it’s never going to go out of style, but can bend and intertwine with other design styles when approached with thought and care.”

Crafting Soulful Sanctuaries Her commitment to smaller footprints stems from a desire for authenticity and practicality.

"With a smaller footprint, it is likely for many to achieve a complete design from the inside and out without sacrificing the authenticity and soul of the house," she says. "I love the sense of being comforted, not swallowed, when entering a home. I aim to allocate the budget fairly to all the right components so nothing gets left behind, especially the important details." She says it’s not about achieving a “boastful, egotistical outcome,” but rather an outcome that “stirs the soul.”

Each project brings together a carefully curated team of artisans and specialists, with Maricel personally managing every detail. She takes pride in fostering collaborative relationships with unworldly talents from all walks of life who share her heart-centered approach to design.

“By cycling through various outside collaborators, we can explore limitless design possibilities,” she explains, adding that her process differs in a way that gives

creators the freedom to venture into other passions and not be bound by societal norms. “Each artisan brings unique essence to the project, making the outcome much more meaningful.”

Maricel’s holistic approach extends beyond aesthetics to consider how spaces affect their inhabitants' wellbeing. She carefully weighs each element's impact—from the way natural light floods a room to how furniture placement encourages flow and connection. This attention to both the physical and energetic aspects of design ensures each space not only looks beautiful but feels deeply nurturing to those who inhabit it.

Through this philosophy, she's not just designing houses—she's crafting sanctuaries that encourage a deeper connection with both nature and self. "It's about fueling the soul, not the ego," she concludes, redefining luxury one intimate space at a time.

While her signature Quiet Luxury Homes service represents her boldest vision, Maricel continues to offer comprehensive interior design services for home renovations and room refashioning. Her approach to these projects mirrors her larger philosophy— creating soulful interiors that evoke emotion and connect residents to their innermost selves. From furniture and finish selection to custom joinery and architectural details, each element is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the client's lifestyle and create spaces of lasting beauty.

If you are ready to design and build your legacy from the inside out, visit www. minteriordesignstudio.com to begin your journey with Maricel toward peace, tranquility and authenticity.

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By Susan Salaz

The New Smart Style

Tech meets luxury for the area’s most forward-thinking home professionals.

Luxury design in Central Indiana is undergoing a tech transformation, from illuminated stone surfaces to smart windows and seamlessly integrated home automation. Six industry leaders at the forefront of this evolution demonstrate how new technology enhances both form and function in contemporary homes. These firms showcase innovations that merge sustainability with sophistication—whether through voice-activated kitchens, automated window treatments or intelligent lighting systems. Together, they're redefining luxury living through technology that's as beautiful as it is brilliant.

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CHATEAU KITCHENS & HOME REMODELING 301 E. Carmel Drive.

Carmel, Indiana 46032 chateaukitchens.com Chateau Kitchens reimagines culinary spaces through a fusion of artificial intelligence and sustainable innovation. The firm harnesses advanced technology, from Smart Food ID systems to voice-activated appliances, while prioritizing eco-conscious design. "In contemporary kitchen design, technology and sustainability are increasingly intertwined," says owner Stephen Moore.

Beyond traditional kitchen planning, the firm utilizes sophisticated 3D rendering software to help clients visualize their space before construction begins. Smart appliances pair with motionsensing lighting systems to create adaptable environments that serve multiple purposes, from entertaining to remote work. "The kitchen design landscape is continually evolving, with a notable trend towards creating multifunctional spaces," Moore explains. His team collaborates with homeowners and industry partners to select energy-efficient appliances and sustainable materials, crafting spaces that balance technological advancement with environmental responsibility. Through this approach, Chateau Kitchens delivers kitchens that anticipate and adapt to changing lifestyle needs.

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GLASS HOUSE GALLERY Indiana Design Center 200 S. Rangeline Road, Suite 117 Carmel, Indiana 46032 theglasshousegallery.com Glass House Gallery delivers the future of windows and doors via breakthrough technology that marries automation with architectural elegance. From their showroom in the Indiana Design Center, the gallery showcases innovations like clickable glass, which transforms from clear to opaque at the push of a button. "Clickable glass was almost unheard of a few years ago due to limiting factors such as cost and availability. Now, all of my window manufacturers offer it as an upgrade option," explains Cori Brown, partner and window/door designer.

Another cutting-edge product they offer comes from Marvin Windows and Doors. The Marvin Connected Home system integrates windows and multi-sliding doors into home automation. These smart units include rain sensors that automatically close windows when moisture is detected while allowing control of hard-to-reach features like secondstory transoms. Through carefully curated architectural products from both domestic and European manufacturers, Glass House Gallery transforms homes with technology that prioritizes both function and form.

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DRAPERY STREET Indiana Design Center 200 S. Rangeline Road, Suite 109 Carmel, Indiana 46032 draperystreet.com At Drapery Street, technology transforms window treatments into an orchestrated element of modern living. The Carmel-based design firm integrates sophisticated automation systems that program shades to respond to sunlight patterns and sync with whole-home scenarios, coordinating with lighting and music for seamless entertaining. "We want to understand what's important to you and then design to that," says owner Caryn O'Sullivan.

The firm's approach proves modern aesthetics thrive alongside soft textures and elegant drapery. Their showroom is a design lab where clients explore features from ultra-quiet motors to custom-printed fabrics. "We don't believe in treating the whole house with the same product," O'Sullivan emphasizes. Working with designers and homeowners early in the building process, Drapery Street transforms window treatments from basic necessity into a cornerstone of luxury home automation.

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FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY Indiana Design Center 200 S. Rangeline Road, Suite 101 Carmel, Indiana 46032 ferguson.com Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery transforms everyday spaces through innovative lighting technology that pairs sophisticated control with sustainable design. "The industry is changing so quickly that the consumer may not be aware of the newer technology we are seeing in the lighting showrooms," notes Debbie Harrison, lighting specialist at Ferguson's Indiana Design Center location.

From smart recessed cans to color-spectrum tape lighting, Ferguson's selection integrates seamlessly with home automation systems through Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri. Their showroom spotlights energy-efficient solutions like DC motor ceiling fans and LED fixtures that consume 90% less energy than traditional options while lasting up to 25 times longer. Beyond products, Ferguson's expert consultants are known to guide clients through selections that merge cutting-edge technology with timeless style and are well-versed in crafting comprehensive lighting designs that balance automation with aesthetics to create customized scenes for different moods and tasks while maintaining energy efficiency.

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TRIPHASE TECHNOLOGIES 10960 Bennett Parkway Zionsville, Indiana 46077 triphase-tech.com At their Zionsville experience center, TRIPhase Technologies takes the headache out of home automation by bringing all smart devices under one simple control system.

"Most new home products have a built-in native app for control. Managing multiple apps often becomes complicated for the average user," explains owner Robert Haecker. "Our approach is to provide one easy-to-operate control platform that manages all home technology."

The innovation continues through smart energy management systems that monitor production and usage while controlling solar and battery backup sources. The firm specializes in high-performance technology that integrates seamlessly into interior design. "Technology should be built-in, not added on," Haecker emphasizes. For 25 years, this Midwest premier provider has executed sophisticated systems that blend performance with aesthetics, from automated security to immersive entertainment, creating cohesive smart environments that enhance daily living.

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VICTORY SURFACES 5720 Kopetsky Drive, Suite H Indianapolis, Indiana 46217 victorysurfaces.com At Victory Surfaces, the area's premier stone and terrazzo company, expert craftsmen shape marble, granite, quartzite and limestone into sophisticated surfaces for residential and commercial spaces.

The firm embraces technological innovation, particularly in stone illumination. "There are some stones we have now that look like glass—they are gorgeous,” says President Todd Ketchum, adding that they these selections lend particularly well to backlighting. “I don't see this trend going away anytime soon, and the lighting has advanced tremendously over the past five years."

Using translucent materials like onyx, alabaster and select marbles, their team creates backlit features that showcase each stone's unique patterns. "We design the customized solution that brings their vision to life," Ketchum notes. The firm's expertise extends beyond aesthetics to smart installation methods, ensuring future maintenance accessibility—a crucial consideration for backlit pieces. Victory Surfaces crafts distinctive elements that merge cutting-edge illumination with timeless stone selection.

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By Susan Salaz

Wood-Fired Revival Pizzology’s Long Awaited Return The heart of Pizzology burns bright. After a 15-month closure, Carmel's beloved gathering spot returns with a renovated space, its original kitchen team, and all the house-made specialties that regulars have missed.

(promotional content)

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F

lames dance inside the glowing wood-fired oven as Pizzology's chefs slide pizza after pizza into the blaze.

Through the expanded kitchen window, diners watch as Neapolitan-style pies emerge bearing perfectly charred crusts. Regulars lean across the marble bar to trade stories, while ice rattles in shakers and craft cocktails flow from practiced hands. Conversations echo through the space as guests settle into booths, and servers weave between tables, carrying plates of house favorites to waiting diners.

It's a welcome scene after a fire changed everything in 2023. What started as a kitchen accident shuttered the popular Carmel establishment for 15 months—much longer than initially projected. "It dragged out," says head chef Paul Robinson, but the team used that time to transform the space.

They expanded the kitchen window, rebuilt the bar with bronze tile and marble tops, and installed a new Wood Stone oven that packs the same power in half the space.

The restaurant protected its core team through the closure, retaining kitchen staff and managers. That decision paid off, as most of the kitchen crew returned when the doors reopened. The kitchen team spent their time away perfecting recipes and techniques, ensuring every dish would meet the high standards their guests remembered. They stepped back into their roles without missing a beat, their hands remembering the precise motions of stretching pizza dough and crafting housemade sauces.

Every component that leaves Pizzology's kitchen tells a story of local connections and careful craft. The dough rises fresh

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each day, topped with ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Signature pizzas showcase the kitchen's creativity—honey drizzles over spicy soppressata on the beloved Bee Keeper pizza, house-made sausage mingles with sweet peppadew peppers and crunchy fennel, and thick-cut pepperoni meets fresh mozzarella pulled by hand. The legendary Italian mussels still arrive swimming in what regulars call "magic broth," infused with pepperoni, garlic and San Marzano tomatoes. These dishes, perfected over years by the team, define Pizzology's unique position in Carmel's dining landscape.

The menu celebrates these classics that built Pizzology's reputation. Each component flows from the kitchen made from scratch, from the tender gnocchi that stars in seasonal specials to the rich sauce bases that give each pizza its distinct character. While the current menu focuses on tried-and-true favorites, Paul shares a plan to gradually reintroduce seasonal specials that longtime patrons have come to anticipate.

"What makes us stand out is how communal it feels," emphasizes Paul.

“Regulars who sit at the bar know each other's stories. People missed that connection while we were closed. They missed seeing the faces they'd grown used to finding here." Now life flows back into Pizzology's routine. Servers learn the rhythms of the new space, regulars rediscover their favorite spots at the bar, and new guests join the community that has made this restaurant pulse at the heart of Carmel's dining scene.

Visit Pizzology at 13190 Hazel Dell Parkway in Carmel. Learn more at pizzologyindy.com and follow @pizzology on Instagram for news and updates.

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By Susan Salaz

’Round the Town Knead to Know – Your Mini-Guide to the Area’s Best Bakeries

Rising to the occasion, these local bakeries are proof that life is sweeter with freshly baked treats. From artisanal breads to decadent pastries and cakes, each spot brings something special to the table.

Le Petit Gâteau 525 North End Drive Carmel, Indiana 46032 lpgbakery.com

Where French finesse meets artistic vision, Le Petit Gâteau is more than just a bakery—it's a canvas for Chef Chris Holland's culinary creativity. A fusion of his fine arts and pastry training shines through in every creation, from seasonal fruit-studded pastries to innovative Sunday specials like Oreo croissants.

Their award-winning custom cakes and desserts have earned a reputation as edible masterpieces worth celebrating.

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The Cake Bake Shop Carmel City Center 800 S. Rangeline Road, Suite 260 Carmel, Indiana 46203 thecakebakeshop.com

At Carmel City Center, The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers dazzles with crystal chandeliers and French elegance, creating an enchanted setting for indulgent moments. Behind grand French doors, their signature towering layer cakes take center stage alongside artisanal pies, delicate macarons, and exquisite pastries. Here, every dessert is served with a sparkling side of sophistication.

Pots & Pans Pie Co. 4915 North College Avenue Indianapolis, Indiana 46205 potsandpansindy.com

From the south edge of SoBro, Pots & Pans Pie Co. believes perfection comes wrapped in pastry. What began as a farmers market favorite has evolved into a carry-out sensation, where seasonal sweet and savory pot pies showcase the versatility of this timeless comfort food. Here, every handcrafted slice upholds their motto: everyone deserves a well-made pie.

Titus Bakery

17471 Wheeler Road Suite 110 Westfield, IN 46074 titusbakery.com

From their award-winning maple bacon long johns to specialty creations that dominate local donut festivals, Titus Bakery has spent three generations perfecting the art of the perfect donut. This Lebanon landmark, now with a Westfield location, stays true to timetested recipes while innovating new favorites—proving that some traditions only get sweeter with time.

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Rise’n Roll

9705 Fishers District Drive, Suite 760 Fishers, Indiana 46037 risenroll.com

From humble Amish roots to beloved Indiana institution, Rise'n Roll Bakery stays true to its foundation of from-scratch baking and real ingredients. Their legendary cinnamon caramel donuts emerge fresh daily alongside a tempting array of handcrafted pastries and breads—each bite showcasing the simple perfection of traditional recipes and quality ingredients.

Taylor’s Bakery

8395 E. 116th Street Fishers, Indiana 46038 talyorsbakery.bakesmart.com

Four generations of family expertise are folded into every creation at Taylor's Bakery, where time-tested recipes and made-from-scratch tradition remain the secret ingredients. While their cases tempt with daily delights, it's their custom cakes that truly showcase the family's artistry—turning life's sweetest celebrations into edible masterpieces that taste as good as they look.

Aspasia Bake Shop 3091 US-421 N Zionsville, Indiana 46077 aspasiabakeshop.com

At Aspasia Coffee and Bake Shop, Eva Tomlinson proves that gluten-free can be gloriously delicious. In this dedicated gluten-free haven, family recipes are thoughtfully reimagined—from salted caramel brownies to celebration-worthy custom cakes. Every scratch-made creation, served alongside local coffee in their bright, welcoming space, makes dietary restrictions feel anything but limiting.

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Leviathan Bakehouse 1101 N. College Avenue Indianapolis, Indiana 46202 leviathanbakehouse.com

In Indianapolis' Chatham Arch neighborhood, Leviathan Bakehouse artfully bridges old-world craftsmanship with contemporary flair. Here, traditional techniques meet modern imagination, creating a gathering space where quality reigns supreme—from the meticulously crafted pastries (we recommend the Gorgeous George Éclair), bakes and breads to the warm sense of community that fills this urban sanctuary.

My Sugar Pie

40 E. Pine Street Zionsville, Indiana 46077 mysugarpie.com

What began in her mother's kitchen has blossomed into Zionsville's sweetest success story. At My Sugar Pie, Kelly Maucere carries forward cherished family recipes, including her nationally acclaimed Sugar Cream Pie and "Mom's Original" Dutch Apple. Each scratchmade creation—still often crafted alongside her mother—proves that the best family traditions are baked with love.

Debbie’s Daughters Bakery & Cafe 1236 Conner Street Suite 100 Noblesville, IN 46060 debbiesdaughters.com

In downtown Noblesville's historic district, Debbie's Daughters embraces the rhythm of the seasons with their small-batch, fromscratch philosophy. Each morning brings fresh delights to their bakery counter—from warm cinnamon rolls to seasonal scones—while their café menu spotlights the best of each season and a weekly pre-order system helps with thoughtful meal planning.

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