Inspired Home Summer 2022

SUMMER

2022

A FRESH APPROACH TO HOME & LIFE

Summer THE

ISSUE

innovation | quality | design

functional and efficient | innovative design | made from natural materials | affordable quality

110 n broadway fargo, north dakota 701.365.0900

scandesign www.scandesignnd.com

1803 s washington grand forks, north dakota 701.757.2444

modern Norwegian design | inspired by ancient traditions

scandesign

Enjoy Life...

by Brekke Custom Homes

live in a quiet neighborhood in our luxury homes starting at

$

369,900

Fully Landscaped with Lawn Sprinkler System | Quiet Street

THE HALLI PLAN 3 BED • 3 BATH

OUR HOMES INCLUDE: • One Level Living • Open Floor Plan • Vaulted Ceilings • Custom Cabinets • Stone Countertops • Custom Closet Systems • Fireplace • Abundant Natural Light • Large Heated Garage, 21’ x 27’ • Front Porch

THE EMILY PLAN 2 BED • 2 BATH

• Back Patio

officembch@gmail.com CALL MIKE BREKKE: 701.730.4385 www.brekkecustomhomes.com

Better mobility for life at home

INDUSTRY LEADERS IN HOME MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SERVICE | FAMILY OWNED R E S I D E N T I A L & C O M M E R C I A L E L E V AT O R S | S TA I R L I F T S | C P A P S U P P L I E S | S C O O T E R S W H E E L C H A I R S | R A M P S | H O S P I TA L B E D S | R E S P I R AT O R Y E Q U I P M E N T 1201 CENTER AVENUE W | DILWORTH, MINNESOTA | 218.359.2122 | CORNERHOMEMEDICAL.COM

CONTENTS

SUMMER 2022

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 8

Deconstructed Caprese salad: slices of tomato, mozzarella, basil and balsamic sauce.

IN EVERY ISSUE

SUMMER

8

12 COLOR Warm weather conjures up colorful thoughts of lilac, pretty pinks, and more. Discover their importance in your home.

54 TRAVEL Need a family get-away? This summer, enjoy a fun-filled and memorable vacation by staying closer to home.

20 ELEMENTS In with the old and out with the new! The outdoor living has never been this beautiful! Your outdoor furniture may say it’s time to update.

68 CUISINE Tis’ the season. Fresh, beautiful peaches are everywhere. Chef Granville Wood proclaims his love for this delicious fruit and shares his favorite recipes.

MUSINGS

10 CONTRIBUTORS 82 WINE WISDOM

FEATURE STORY 62 GOOD LIVING Ready for a picnic? In this fastpaced world, what could be better than dining outdoors with friends and family? Discover our helpful hints.

28 HOME SHOWCASE Location and sense of comfort are important things to consider as a homeowner and this local remodel project will clearly show that and more. Enjoy the tour!!

6 | summer 2022

38 DESIGN The art of window dressing is full of design, color, and patterns.

Stunning window treatments will be the room’s crowning glory.

46 GARDEN Mirror, mirror on the wall, who grows the most beautiful tomatoes of them all? You do! Read The Love Apple to discover how.

74 INGREDIENTS Revel in rose water as the delicious secrets of this heavenly natural flavor create magic with a simple cupcake.

78 BACKYARD While the summer season sizzles, enjoy the comfort and coolness that an umbrella provides.

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Artistry in concrete

• Decorative Concrete Patios Pool Decks, Sidewalks and Driveways

• Concrete Resurfacing and Decorative Overlays • New and Replacement Standard Concrete

K

• Footings, Foundations and Structural Concrete

• Interior Epoxy Flooring

Kaufman Construction

INC

Residential and commercial decorative concrete and carpentry

Kaufman Construction Gold Star Award Winner in Decorative Concrete 2021 Stamped Concrete Award recipient from the Decorative Concrete Council

Mobile: 701-799-1832 Office: 701-347-4507 kaufmanconcrete@gmail.com www.kaufmanconstructionnd.com Like us on Facebook: @KaufmanConstructionND

Proud Member of the

Inspired Home Associate Publisher Terri Ferragut Phone: 701.866.4405 Email: terri@inspiredhomemagazine.com terri.ferragut@gmail.com Find us on

(Inspired Home Magazine) Editorial Director Terri Ferragut Creative Director

A Fargo backyard vineyard, photography by Zach Davis

Terri Ferragut Art Director

W

elcome to the Inspired Home Summer issue!

Life in our community has finally been greeted by summer and, everywhere you look, we are witnessing the ambitious results. Farmers, gardeners and construction companies alike are preparing the earth for upcoming bounties.

Summer remains a window of time in which we feel innately determined to complete our own set of tasks on the proverbial to-do list. Area residents are swarming like bees, planning new opportunities for their homes and gardens, embarking upon new improvement projects or longing to create the perfect backyard experience. These spaces are fast becoming personal areas of respite and retreat from the fast cadence of our hectic lives.

In this issue, we explore everything from harvesting award-winning tomatoes from our gardens to viewing the ultimate transformational change created by an area home remodeling project. You will be amazed by the talents of area designers and builders who made it all possible. For those of you envisioning a smaller project, you’ll discover such gems as beautiful outdoor furniture for your private backyard get-away or painting with pastels to create charming spaces indoors that add peace and calm.

For this season of summer travel, read Inspired Home to receive great advice on vacationing closer to home or perhaps you’ll simply garner great ideas for an oldfashioned picnic with family and friends. You’ll find it all here in the pages of Inspired Home.

Just settle back, put your feet up and enjoy the Inspired Home Summer issue.

Deborah Schultz Director of Operations Scott Drzewiecki Contributing Photographers Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss Lauren Ferragut Carlson Zach Davis Bailey Hovland Chelsey Malstrom Contributing Writers Lauren Ferragut Carlson Terri Ferragut Chelsey Malstrom Granville Wood Copy Editor Keri Guten Cohen Social Media Director Bailey Hovland

Production representative

Have a great summer!

Terri Ferragut

Associate Publisher Editorial Director terri.ferragut@gmail.com terri@inspiredhomemagazine.com 8 | summer 2022

30600 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 105 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (313) 510-4429

this label only applies to the text stock

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

contributors

TERRI FERRAGUT Every issue, we take great pride in presenting this beautiful local home and lifestyle guide we call Inspired Home. From design to great food our goal is to provide you with relevant information you value. Truth of the matter is, without the heart and dedication of this talented and professional team, this publication would not be possible. Issue after issue, their creativity brings Inspired Home to your doorstep or area business. They inspire me.

JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss is a photographer for architecture and interior design.

Her clients range from designers and builders, both commercial and residential.

When she's not working she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, traveling and entertaining.

LAUREN F. CARLSON recently moved back home to Fargo with her husband and daughter after living in Upstate New York for 8 years where she worked at Cornell University as a research technician.

There she worked with hemp for CBD/grain/fiber and willow for bioenergy. After having a baby she took some time off to be a mom.

She loves knitting, running, cross-stitch, and of course, Scandinavian baking.

10 | summer 2022

BAILEY HOVLAND Before earning an English writing degree at Concordia College, Hovland dreamed of being an interior designer. Now, serving Inspired Home Magazine as a writer and social media director, she has the best of both worlds—pairing the power of words with innovative interior design.

ASHLEY F. JOHNSON Ashley Johnson loves her home city of Fargo.

She works as a registered nurse at Sanford Medical Center and shares her happy home with her husband, 2 children and a rescue cat. She loves traveling with her family, cooking, entertaining and good wine. She can’t wait to show her children the world.

CHELSEY MALSTROM Born and raised in Detroit Lakes, MN, Chelsey enjoys all things lakes country.

Finding her love for wine working at Epcot Food and Wine Festival in 2012, she was thrilled to move back to Detroit Lakes to help run the family business.

Today you can find her at Seven Sisters Spirits, planning events and helping people find the perfect wine.

GRANVILLE WOOD Wood is an international chef who worked in London, Stockholm, Toronto, Vancouver, Palm Beach and Houston before moving to Fargo with wife Susie, a doctor with Sanford Health.

Most recently he operated The Blue Goose Café in the Plains Art Museum.

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Life happens on our floors

Providing

Comfort

50

for over

yrs

4601 17th Ave S. Fargo 701-235-7525 www.carpetworldfargo.com

Carpet | Vinyl | Ceramic Tile | Hardwood | Laminate

Full Installation Service | Free In-Home Estimates

COLOR

Pastel s, please…

BY TERRI FERRAGUT IMAGES COURTESY BENJAMIN MOORE

Benjamin Moore’s First Light is an upbeat and hopeful color. Here, the grounding neutral “Thunder” completes this kitchen color scheme with total sophistication.

12 | SUMMER 2022

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

Here, Head Over Heels, Mist Blue and Dusty Trail by Benjamin Moore create a stunning trio of pastels. Natural wood and a terrazzo counter continue the sleek, contemporary feel.

Little pops of color in wall art will add dimensional interest throughout your pastel décor theme. Here the room is grounded by the deep pastel couch.

The pink tone-on-tone interplay pictured here is a perfect example of the comforting scheme of soft analogous colors.

L

ovely warm weather conjures up colorful thoughts of lilac, pretty pinks, robin’s egg blue, buttercup yellow, periwinkle or pistachio — light-hearted and airy shades of color with a deep connection to nature. Pastel colors represent a dramatic break from the dark and moody colors often favored in wintertime, which have long given pastels a strong affiliation with the spring and summer months.

DEFINING PASTELS Pastel colors are white-diluted versions of primary or secondary colors. As a result, they combine both the character of the original color and the purifying, cleansing mood of white. Pastel pink can be achieved by mixing vivid red with a quantity of white, for example. Pastel lemon combines the bright optimism of yellow with the freshness of white. Adding white to green plays down green’s natural cocooning tendencies, creating pistachio green, which emits a fresh and vibrant feel.

PASTEL PSYCHOLOGY Psychologically, pastels are a strong, positive color group with dual personalities. Adding white not only raises the color value, but also changes the psychology of a hue. They are generally considered delicate, sophisticated and clean. Pastel colors represent neutrality; they are peaceful, soft and innately calming to the viewer. Their soothing nature is often incorporated into the interior design of hospital rooms as well as nurseries and surgical floors. Fresh pastels, with their power to evoke emotions, are often used in marketing themes and in the design of cleaning, sanitation and health products or by fragrance companies.

PASTELS IN HOME DÉCOR There are countless ways to use the power of pastels in your home. They are perfect for one of the busiest places in the home — your kitchen. The use of minty green, soft gray and bright white combined, create a calming kitchen environment. For those more adventurous, try a pastel pink, lemon yellow or pistachio green to create a fresh and airy retro-inspired theme when teamed with colors of gray, white or black.

INSPIRED HOME | 13

COLOR

“

Psychologically, pastels are a strong, positive color group with dual personalities.

”

Metro tiles and retro cookware come in an abundance of pastel colors to complete your kitchen in grand style.

CASUAL RESPITE For a more casual feel, incorporate pastels on larger pieces. Shiplap walls give a space a beachy lakeside, vintage feel. Create a cottage-inspired theme by painting furniture pieces with a pastel paint shade, then create handmade patina by sanding the paint for a well-lived look. Would you like a particular room to feel more relaxing? Soft colors can provide a sense of serenity. Rest in rooms that utilize pale hues for a tranquil feeling morning, noon or night. Bedrooms, baby nurseries, reading rooms — all are great candidates for the peace and calm pastels provide.

PASTEL POSSIBILITIES Create a comforting color scheme of soft analogous colors, which are colors very closely related to each other. The key to this look is keeping the colors within the same color palette, but differing the shades just enough that they aren’t matching. To really play up this monochromatic pastel color scheme, add black and white in your décor for clear contrast in the space. Note: Pastels will offset any black or dark wood finishes beautifully.

GROUND PASTELS When combined with stronger or more formal colors — pastels lighten the mood, creating complex, balanced schemes that feel at once both lighthearted and chic. Incorporate pastel elements with earth tones —like mustard, saffron, gray, midnight blues or forest green — for a balanced and sophisticated palette. One of the best reasons for incorporating pastel colors into a home’s design and décor is the sheer relaxation factor. Softer-hued pastels are Pastels created this tranquil dining space. The natural wood flooring is perfect to complement the tonal qualities of the soft pink walls and seafoam décor.

Benjamin Moore’s First Light bathes this dining area in a relaxing yet energized feel, accompanied by natural light. Windmill Blue peacefully bathes the sunroom.

14 | SUMMER 2022

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Multiple pastel color variations create the perfect scenario in this bathroom. The neutral gray, which is a pastel tone, grounds this tile display, helping to add a balanced and chic design theme.

Color companions October Mist, Morning Dew, and Steam are accompanied by streaming, natural light to define subtle and natural beauty.

Jamie Wallace, owner, CKD

FULL-SERVICE | CABINETRY | COUNTERTOPS | LIGHTING | FLOORING TILE | PLUMBING FIXTURES | NEW CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING

BY APPOINTMENT INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

205 E Lincoln Ave, Ste B, Fergus Falls, Minnesota 218.998.3889 • CALLALILYDESIGNS.com INSPIRED HOME | 15

COLOR

There are countless ways to use pastels in your home. In this kitchen, soft green creates a calming environment. White subway tile and black hardware complete the look.

a perfect way to introduce a vibrant color into a space without that color drawing too much attention to itself. Incorporate a natural jute rug, bright white seating or crisp molding to immerse your room in sophistication. Little pops of color on pillows and wall art will add dimensional interest throughout your pastel décor theme.

GET STARTED Experiment! Check out unusual sources to spark your creativity. Take note of candy colors, produce in your local market or notice colors in your garden. You will be surprised how many natural pastel colors are all around you. Determine what room in your home you want to tackle, visit your paint store and get to work! Next? Simply sit back, relax and enjoy your personal paradise of pastels.

16 | SUMMER 2022

This is a feel-good room you will never want to leave. Soft pastels introduce the vibrant coral of the chairs. Moon Yellow and Fernwood Green define this space.

Soft, tone-on-tone pinks and grays are the key elements in making this bedroom a peaceful and comforting retreat for the homeowner.

Want to see these colors for yourself?

Visit Hirshfield’s in Fargo, 100 36th St. South, (Butler Business Park at Main Ave. & I-29) or call 701-235-0549.

Visit shophirshfields.com to order online and pick up at the store.

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BENJAMIN MOORE 2022 COLOR PALETTE

Color of the Year OCTOBER MIST 1495

Manage your shades with precise control from your pebble remote or your smart devices.

Voice activate when integrated with smart-home systems like Amazon, Alexa or Siri.

Energy efficiency through preset schedules that control solar heat gain or loss.

Two battery options or hard wire options for new construction.

Carry out commands from in or around your home.

SHOWROOM: 4631 40th Ave S, Fargo • 701.893.5134 Certified Installers

Monday - Sunday by appointment only Locally Owned by Karen since 2008.

karen@thelittleblindshop.com | thelittleblindshop.com INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

Karen Anderson, Designer, Owner Rosecreek Design

INSPIRED HOME | 17

ADD GLASS TO EVERY ROOM www.redriverglazing.com SHOWROOM: 300 43rd Street NW, Fargo, ND

701.232.4717

1365 Tacoma Ave., Unit 6, Bismarck, ND

701.751.0694

CUSTOM DESIGN & G L ASS FA B R I CAT I O N RAILINGS SHOWER DOORS MIRRORS COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL

Stacy Pellett

Sales and Installation Manager, RRG, Inc. LICENSED AND INSURED CONTRACTOR IN ND AND MN

elements

Outdoor Comfort

BY TERRI FERRAGUT

LEFT: The Ria collection, created by the Italian company, Fast, is constructed of vibrant sturdy colored rope, waterproof fabrics, and a painted aluminum frame. Shown in olive green. fastspa.com RIGHT: This Italianmade outdoor garden table is crafted by Fast.

Pictured in aluminum, with ceramic stoneware top, which is harder than granite, fireproof, UV and heat resistant. fastspa.com

s the weather warms, it’s exciting to finally uncover the patio furniture, take the cushions out from storage, and ready the grill for steaks. Great outdoor furniture brings not only function, but great beauty and comfort to your outdoor living area. Your indoor rooms are brought to the great outdoors. Outdoor furniture brings your dining and entertaining experience outside and the beauty of the blue sky becomes your ceiling. The long-awaited debut of last season’s outdoor furniture however, may reveal they are not in guest-ready shape. If you start shopping, you will quickly discover, there are a lot of choices, which can be a bit overwhelming with all the materials, styles, and designs available. Consider these helpful tips to help navigate through the sea of considerations.

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

INSPIRED HOME | 21

elements

D EF I N E YOU R LIFE S TYLE The Opal collection

by Jensen Outdoor dazzles with beauty in any landscape.

The transitional lines are subtly decorative and the 100% FSC-certified Ipe wood, impervious to water, conserves our forests. jensenoutdoor.com

22 | summer 2022

The first step in identifying the right furniture is to think about how you want to use your outdoor space. Do you want to eat meals on your deck, or relax by a fire on your patio?

Will you entertain large groups or host smaller, more intimate gatherings? Your answers to these questions will help you determine the next step.

M AT ER I AL S E LE C TION

When you’re shopping for furniture, choose easy-care materials and pieces that complement the look of your landscape and architecture of your home.

Natural Wood is sturdy and comfortable, but it will require regular maintenance and preservative treatments for weather and UV protection. Choose weather-resistant woods like redwood, teak, Ipe, and cedar, which require less maintenance.

Rattan and Wicker are natural materials that provide a casual, comfortable look for your deck, but they will require weatherproofing every few years. Synthetic rattan and wicker have a resin finish that will last a lot longer.

Steel and Wrought Iron are extremely sturdy and will need cushions for comfort. They’re INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

A mix of traditional and contemporary design, Cape Town

by Lane Venture, offers deep comfortable seating and a high back. This sectional boasts a wheat color finish, Harvest, and looks like natural wicker. laneventure.com

CONTRACTORS YOU CAN TRUST FOR BEAUTIFUL SOLUTIONS. NEW CONSTRUCTION // REMODELING ROOFING SIDING // WINDOWS // GUTTERS // COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL // INDUSTRIAL

701.478.7663 | ALLSTARFARGO.COM INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

INSPIRED HOME | 23

elements

ABOVE: This Berkeley grouping by Castelle, with elegance and strength, offers an attractive mid-century design of durable cast and extruded aluminum. The carved wood look will complement any outdoor décor. castellefurniture.com RIGHT: The Fast Mosaiko collection of modular coffee tables is a series of five different shapes and sizes to be used in clusters or stand-alone. Available in multiple aluminum colors from Pearl Gold to Green Tea. fastspa.com

great for the outdoors, but will need to be painted or treated periodically with a weatherproof finish to prevent rust.

Aluminum, Plastic and PVC materials are rustproof, lightweight, inexpensive and easy to maintain with a little soap and water. However, because of their lightweight construction, they may need to be secured in high winds and storms.

No matter how weather proof the furniture is, you’ll want to store it over the winter to expand its lifespan. Consider the room you have for storage before you make a purchase.

Also, try before you buy if possible. Sit in the chairs and try putting the umbrella up and down a time or two to make sure you like the comfort and usability.

LOOK FOR QU ALITY

When you’re shopping, don’t assume that price is the best indicator of quality. So how can you tell what good quality furniture looks like?

24 | summer 2022

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“

The long-awaited debut of last season’s outdoor furniture however, may reveal they are not in guest-ready shape.

”

Tired of cleaning out

egress wells?

Finish Consistency, if wood, should be smoothly sanded and free of flaws, even in hidden spots, such as the underside of the tabletop. Painted metals should have a uniform finish. Wicker shouldn’t be unraveling or loosely wound on the frame. For metal, check for tight and well-fitted joints of the metal welds, which should be fairly smooth.

Make sure metal has no bare, unpainted areas or rust spots.

ACCES SO R IZING

Outdoor living spaces, like their indoor counterparts, are greatly enhanced with color, textures and accessories. Cushions and throw pillows provide stylish comfort for lounging, encouraging your guests to linger. Purchase products made especially for outdoor use so they will hold up well under the elements. Two popular material options are solution-dyed acrylic and spun polyester as they resist moisture, mildew and staining.

Acrylic Frame Steel Frame

From window well covers to displaying fine art... trust our service and product knowledge for your custom plastic projects.

Clear acrylic allows maximum light Unique design keeps water out Fits galvanized, cement & timber egress frames Collectibles custom display cases.

701-280-1993 800-380-1993 2310 3rd Avenue N. Fargo, ND 58102

www.customplasticsfargo.com INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

INSPIRED HOME | 25

elements

Most fabrics designed for outdoor use will also resist fading. Cushions with vents for air circulation will dry more quickly after spring and summer showers. Create an extra cozy lounging space with the addition of an outdoor carpet. Personal style and preference will be your guiding factors when selecting color palettes. Again, consider your landscape and the architecture of your home. Bright, colorful patterns will offer energy day and night on the patio. Neutral, subdued tones will create a relaxed, contemporary, and clean look.

A G O O D INV E STME N T

Quality outdoor furniture is a good investment — make informed decisions. Take your time to weigh the various materials and products available so you and your guests can enjoy summer in the comfort and beauty of the outdoor rooms you create.

ABOVE: In grand outdoor dining style, Jensen Outdoor brings the Topaz collection. Created by award-winning Italian designers, the sleek lines and chic allure combined with the unbridled strength of Ipe timber will guarantee lasting memories. jensenoutdoor.com TOP: Perfect for an outdoor sitting room, the Aikana collection has modular elements with a frame of extruded aluminum. These indoor-outdoor frames come in multiple colors from Pearl Gold to Iron Gray, with a plethora of colors in weather-proof cushions and pillows.

26 | summer 2022

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Relaxation reaches a whole new level with the Coral collection by Jensen Outdoor. Danish designer Povl Eskildsen brings a transitional handwoven design of environmentally friendly materials. So beautiful coupled with chocolate brown Ipe timber, you’ll use it indoors and out. jensen outdoor.com

Join our

Fan Shown: Hinkley Indy 72” 3 blade indoor/ outdoor ceiling fan

fan club

boutique style small-town service! » lighting » home decor » lighting systems & technology » gifts » unique furniture » shop online

1200 South Washington Grand Forks, North Dakota

the lighting gallery INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

701.772.2402 shopthelightinggallery.com

Sonia Roberton, owner, lighting designer

Jon Mattson, lighting designer

Hayley Erickson, lighting designer

INSPIRED HOME | 27

HOME SHOWCASE

Creating

Permanence

BY TERRI FERRAGUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS

In this complete home remodel for this active family, considerations were made to improve the flow of activity, including meal times in the kitchen. Natural light floods the space, an intended feature in the process.

28 | summer 2022

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L

ocation and sense of comfort are important things to consider as a homeowner,

which is where this story begins.

When purchasing this older existing home, the homeowners were drawn to an established neighborhood on a serene river lot. It was this appreciation of the home and lot that led them to approach this project as if it were a new build. To accommodate the needs of the homeowner’s active family, every inch was transformed, down to the studs.

An important consideration of the homeowners in this project was the idea of permanence, a place where the needs of their growing young family would be met throughout the years. Homebuilder Chad Samson of Samson Construction Inc. says, “Taking an outdated home down to the studs and making the house brand new from mechanical to the final finishes was very important to the owners.”

The careful planning in such an undertaking was an integral piece of the family’s interpretation of “home.” With the expertise of Lindsey Grace Interiors, Samson Construction Inc., Mevold Studio, Clearwater Custom Cabinets, and a trusted group of subcontractors, the sketches and renderings on paper combined with continued on page 30

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INSPIRED HOME | 29

HOME SHOWCASE

thoughtful inceptions from the homeowners began a design journey of transformational change.

Creating a home that would grow with the family meant addressing and understanding the family’s lifestyle. Lindsey Christie of Lindsey Grace Interiors says, “The homeowners are a busy family with young children, so they wanted a home that worked for them. We paid close attention to their daily routines and what we could do to help their day flow easier, whether it came to mealtimes in the kitchen or the morning and bedtime routines in the children’s spaces. We looked at how their routines work nicely for them currently, and how they may change as the family grows since they plan to be in this home for the long run.”

Thoughtful planning resulted in special features important to the family throughout the home. Two laundry rooms, one on the upper level and one downstairs were added to increase functionality. The children’s spaces were kept separate from the main living area and closer to the parent’s bedrooms. Architectural designer, Jan Mevold of Mevold Studio designed

A beautiful transformation of space resulted here under the guidance of Mevold Studio. Removing the original stairway created this airy foyer that transcends upward to the second-floor ceiling. Custom millwork defines the area with sophistication.

The second-story level reveals a stunning chandelier. Lindsey Christie of Lindsey Grace Interiors appreciated the homeowner’s trust to incorporate great lighting into the project.

30 | summer 2022

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Natural light streams through the dining room windows, which was important to the homeowners. The design, build, and architectural design teams all worked together to see it come to fruition.

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INSPIRED HOME | 31

HOME SHOWCASE

Remarkable changes are noted here in the living room. From darkness into light describes the overall feeling with detailed woodwork and whitewashed oak throughout breathing life into the space. The fireplace by Home and Hearth, surrounded by the workmanship of Clearwater Custom Cabinets, readies this space for relaxation.

32 | summer 2022

an upper play loft, especially for the younger members of the family. “They planned every space to accommodate their family now and as they grow — from the reading nook and playroom to a large golf simulator loaded with games,” Samson adds.

The result of intuitive design is boldly stated throughout the remodeling project.

“The foyer in this home is truly the heart of the home,” Christie says. The existing staircase was removed by Mevold Studio, resulting in a breath-taking open airiness that transcends from the lower level upward to the secondstory ceiling. Detailed custom millwork flanks each of the four walls of the space.

Christie appreciated the homeowner’s trust to incorporate added finish elements

that created the project’s sophistication, practicality, and comfort. “In the upstairs boys’ bathroom,” she says, “we utilized a navy subway tile in the shower/tub area and as wainscoting on all walls to add interest in a durable way. In the upper girls’ bathroom, we mixed metals with a beautiful Rebecca Atwood blush pink wallpaper.” All cabinetry, innovative and timeless, was by Clearwater Custom Cabinets and is witnessed throughout the entire home.

Another important factor to the homeowners was that the home would accommodate family gatherings and a place to entertain. “We made use of existing space beneath the staircase as a wine cellar close to the lower-level bar,” Christie says. Large INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

Hosting family and friends was an important factor to the homeowners so a wine cellar was created in the existing space beneath the staircase, close to the lower-level bar. White-washed oak cabinetry by Clearwater Custom Cabinets.

Thoughtful design features that would accommodate the family as they grew were important. Evidence throughout the home includes the children’s reading room upstairs, one of many favorites of builder Chad Samson, of Samson Construction.

The window seat adds cozy practicality.

This storage area in the upstairs children’s loft is rich and beautiful in its sage green hue and will be put to good use for many years to come as they grow.

The rich finish is cleverly complemented by colorful leather hardware.

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

INSPIRED HOME | 33

HOME SHOWCASE

BOYS: The homeowners were excited to use color, texture, and detail while keeping the home timeless. Navy subway tile upstairs in the boys’ bathroom was chosen for wainscoting and the shower/tub area.

GIRLS: In the upstairs girls’ bathroom, Christie mixed metals with Rebecca Atwood blush pink wallpaper. The subtle pops of color in cabinetry and wallpaper pattern create soft and sophisticated femininity.

34 | summer 2022

windows flood the rooms with natural light, a man cave/bar space was created above the new garage and unique lighting fixtures are present in every room.

Teamwork, open dialogue and a commitment to good living seized every day of this remodeling project. Planning sessions and a commitment to excellence brought everyone

to the “design table” to bring hard work and insight to beautiful fruition.

This story began as a witness to family, longevity, thoughtful design, and the importance of natural beauty. It doesn’t stop here. For this family, it will transcend generations of life. A job well done and lives well-lived.

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BEFORE & AFTER

CONTRIBUTORS

Chad Samson

Adam Olson

Lindsey Christie

Jan Mevold

Chris Tweten

PRESIDENT SAMSON CONSTRUCTION, INC. BUILDER

GENERAL MANAGER ALL STAR CONSTRUCTION ROOFING & SIDING

LINDSEY GRACE INTERIORS,OWNER

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER MEVOLD STUDIO, OWNER

PRESIDENT CLEARWATER CUSTOM CABINETS

Home Heating and Plumbing | Home and Hearth Fireplaces | Power Connection Electrical | Signature Home Technologies Cullen Insulation | Simonson Lumber | Showcase Floors

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

INSPIRED HOME | 35

d e t i v n I e ! r ’ w u o o h Y S k n u r T r u O To RUGS | PILLOWS | ART Thursday, June 16, 1:00-7:00

Visit our new

Detroit Lakes

showroom, Tuesday and Thursday, 10:00 - 4:00

Linda Birmingham

desginingwomen2.com 701.476.0938

Kris Carlson

Book your appointment for either location!

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(inside Showcase Floors)

info@designingwomen2.com

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Home & Office Interior Design

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Inspired Home recently spoke with designingwomen2 about their new showroom located in the heart of Minnesota lake country, Detroit Lakes.

IH: Let’s talk longevity. How long have you been doing this?

DW2: DW2 is well into our second decade of interior designing for homes and businesses. We have explored the best way to meet the needs of our clients and have found having an intimate space to meet and create one-on-one personalized designs works very well.

IH: Why do you love what you do?

DW2: Designing for people’s homes includes multiple layers of fun, intrigue

and creativity. The best part is meeting and embracing new friendships! The joy of creating a space that people love and cherish is pure joy for us.

IH: Having a lakes country showroom is a great development in DW2 history.

Why are you especially excited about this new location?

DW2: Having a second location in Detroit Lakes allows us to serve our clients better.

Having the option to meet clients at either our Fargo location or Detroit Lakes is proving to be invaluable. For our customers who

live at the lake year-round, it is wonderful to have local options for them.

CHECK OUT THE DW2 NEW LOCATION FOR YOURSELF! Where: 714 Lake Avenue, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.

When: Open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 – 4:00 Why: To have great fun making your home the best that it can be!

Artist Dori Stibal invites you to her extraordinary shop and a world of creativity!

Experience it all – Art pieces and painting classes, to her unique home decor style.

HOME DÉCOR FRESHLY DESIGNED FURNITURE r CUSTOM PROJECTS WELCOME WISE OWL PAINT AND REDESIGN PRODUCTS r PAINTING CLASSES r

r

r

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3301 13th Ave South, Suite 102, Fargo, North Dakota 701.200.5029 vintagegypsyllc.com INSPIRED HOME | 37

DESIGN

Beautiful

multi-taskers

BY GRANVILLE WOOD // IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGN DIRECTION

If you think about it, windows are noticed instantly when entering a room. Every home has them and there is nothing more pleasing to the eye than window treatments that bathe a room in beautiful design. Their beauty is just the beginning. Inspired Home asked Design Direction experts Christina Mehl and Delrae Schefter for their thoughts.

TOP: Here, motorized Hunter Douglas shades were chosen for privacy. The grommet stationary drapery panels add pattern and color to this space. Layering your windows treatments allows you to maintain privacy, and add texture, color, and pattern to the room.

LEFT: Stationary drapery panels frame the fireplace wall and help ground the room with a neutral color, adding a casual feel with the fabric and puddling at the floor.

Layers of sheer and semi-opaque fabric in the Silhouette window shades tilt for privacy or diffuse sunlight.

OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM RIGHT: These Roman shades offer the privacy desired. Fabric shades are a great way to add bold patterns and bright colors to a space. The blue vertical band of fabric creates a beautiful designer touch.

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»

IH: Are window treatments enjoying the popularity of previous years?

DS: Yes! They are as popular today because of what they bring to your space. The most important things consumers are seeking now in window treatments are privacy, light control, sound absorption, energy efficiency, ease of operation and the overall aesthetics of the treatment.

IH: What design factors have changed in window treatments?

DS: We’re not doing as many layered draperies as we did in previous years. This is where a pair of sheer panels with drapery panels traverse across the entire window. Swags and cascades are not as

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DESIGN LEFT: Stunning 20’ long stationary pleated drapery panels add warmth and luxury to this beautiful home. The panels are made from a textured fabric and hang from a custom-stained 2” wood drapery rod with finials capping the ends. The fabric panels not only add beauty to the space but help with sound absorption too.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Bypass shutter treatment is a great way to add privacy and light control to a large expansive window area. Natural wood creates a warm appeal and contrast to any room in your home. Added comfort by insulating against the cold of winter and the heat of summer days are additional reasons to incorporate them into your home.

common. Most combination treatments we create now have some type of privacy blind or shade combined with stationary panels of drapery on either side of the window.

IH: Does the architecture of the home play a role?

DS: Architecture does come into play when determining window treatments. If it’s a historic home, we may look to the past and recreate the styles used, or if it is a modern home with clean lines, we like to keep the treatments contemporary and streamlined.

IH: How do you determine your starting point?

DS: The starting point to any window treatment design is accurate measurements, for several reasons. Each treatment is made specifically for each project, there isn’t a one size fits all. Shade styles may have size restrictions we need to consider, such as a narrow window that may require a manual lift system versus motorized. Or, perhaps the fabric we like is only available in a certain width and length that won’t fit a particular window. Another consideration — drapery panels take up wall space on each side of the window we call the stackback. We may have only one inch of space on one side of a window but the other side there is a 24-inch space.

40 | summer 2022

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Learn to paint in watercolor!

From veteran artist & teacher, Barbara Benda

My Cheyenne, Barbara Benda, 2022

House Sparrow, Barbara Benda, 2022

At that point, we need to address how that will look on the window with our client and whether they want stationary side panels or full draperies that cover the window. These are just a few examples of the importance of correct measurements from the very beginning.

CM: We meet with the customer to find out how they use the space with the window we’re addressing. Does the homeowner need light control to help keep glare off the TV? Or if the window is hard to access, we would suggest a lift system best suited for it. In a larger room with hard-surface flooring and tall ceilings, the space would benefit from having drapery panels to help with sound absorption, while also bringing in patterns and colors to frame the window.

IH: Options to dressing a window are endless.

What’s popular with clients?

CM: That’s the fun part of dressing windows.

It’s exciting to bring creativity into the project with color, patterns and style of the treatment.

We have seen shutters gain popularity here in the upper Midwest. From being able to easily control the light by tilting the slats, to the beautiful colors, finishes and louver sizes offered — they are a popular choice.

We also do a lot with stationary drapery panels. Whether they are of textural fabrics INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

Sandpoint Poodles, Beverly and Barbara Benda 2022

Sweet Spirit, Barbara Benda 2022

When God Paints at Sunrise, Barbara Benda, 2021

Double Trouble Gallery showcases watercolors, acrylics, and mixed media collage by professional artist and educator Barbara Benda and twin sister Beverly Benda. This unique home-based gallery features affordable original art for your home or business. To make an appointment, call 218-443-1126 or email: barbara@barbarabendanagle.com.

Private art instruction is also available for ages 12 and up

Workshop and Art Event Calendar LIMITED TO THE FIRST 12 REGISTRANTS

Beginning Drawing and Watercolor Workshop: With Veteran Artist & teacher, Barbara Benda This class is for you! For more information and to download a registration form, go to www.barbarabendanagle.com NDSCS Campus in Fargo, ND

October 2-3, 12-6 pm

Studio Crawl, Mourning Dove Studio 809 20th St. North, Moorhead, MN

July 18-22, 9:00-3:30

For updates and to sign up for e-letter, go to www.barbarabendanagle.com

Double Trouble Open by appointment Monday -Saturday

GALLERY

809 20th Street North, Moorhead, MN www.barbarabendanagle.com

INSPIRED HOME | 41

DESIGN

ABOVE: This window treatment portrays the use of multiple widths of fabric to add height and width to the window. The color of the fabric chosen was inspired by the family area rug used in the space, which adds a cheery coziness to the room. Embellishment using bell tassel trim along the leading edges of the drapes creates a personalized design statement. Motorized screen shades offer ease of operation even when lounging in bed.

RIGHT: The playful floral fabric in this Roman shade gives a finishing touch to this window shade. From paisleys and feminine florals to checks and playful polka dots, patterned shades provide personality-plus to your room.

or patterned, we can add tapes and trim to embellish the panels, adding fun and customized design elements to the panels.

IH: New trends that you are excited about?

CM: Home automation is playing a large role in window treatments.

Homeowners can operate their lights, thermostats and security systems off apps through their smart devices — and we do the same with window treatments. Current technology allows us to open and close window treatments, setting up a timed schedule to open, like sunrise, and close at sunset. Also, window treatments can be operated remotely from anywhere in the world —– how cool is that!

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» SUMMER

Want more information?

Contact:

SCHEDULE

JUNE

1 7

ONWARD THERAPY: Speech and Language Impacts of Dementia • Bethel Church, 2702 30th Ave. S, Fargo, ND REDEFINING MEMORY LOSS CAREGIVER CONFERENCE 9, a.m.-4 p.m., Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave. S, Fargo, ND, Keynote speaker: Erin Bonitto, M.S. A.D.C/ Gemini Consulting

8 15 22 6

JULY DELRAE SCHEFTER

Interior Designer delrae@designdirectionfargo.com

13 20 ™

27 3 10 17 24

AUG.

SANDY’S DONUT DAY AND MUSIC Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. S, Moorhead, MN COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT & TNT FITNESS Bethel Church, 2702 30th Ave. S, Fargo, ND CAREGIVER CAFE - Linger, Laugh and Learn Center, 1122 1st Ave. N, Fargo, West Entrance Call 701-404-6712 for details.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION - Yard games and root beer floats! Friends and family welcome!

Urban Plains Park Shelter A, 3020 51st St. S, Fargo, ND CAREGIVER BURNOUT - Dr. BesstoMartin, Essentia Memory Cafe is dedicated providing impactful Hjemkomst Center, 1st Ave. Moorhead, MN support and202 education to N, individuals living with mild to moderate memory loss and their care partners.

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR PAINTING WITH ARTIST NICOLE GAGNER Bethel Church, 2702 30th Ave. S, Fargo, ND

Changing the Way We Think About Memory Loss

CAREGIVER CAFÉ Linger, Laugh and Learn Center, 1122 1st Ave. N, Fargo, West Entrance • Call 701-404-6712 for details.

PARTY AND TOUR OF THE RED RIVER ZOO 4255 23rd Ave. S, Fargo, ND

1st & 3rd Wednesday, 1-2:30pm

THE REMEMBER PROJECT Bethel Church — 2702 30th Ave S, Fargo Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N, Moorhead, MN

2nd GATHERING Wednesday, 1-2:30pm OUTDOOR AND MUSIC Hjemkomst Center — 202 1st Ave N, Moorhead The Urban Plains Park Shelter A, 3020 51st St. S, Fargo, ND

CAFE ca reg i v er caCAREGIVER fe 4th Wednesday, 1-2:30pm s u p p o rt g ro 1122 up 1st Ave. N, Fargo, ND, Center West Entrance Linger Laugh and Learn — 1122 1st Ave N, Fargo

CHRISTINA MEHL

Interior Designer christina@designdirectionfargo.com.

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Call 701-404-6712 for details.

Every Tuesday Thursday, 1-2:30pm NO MEMORY CAFE (5th&Wednesday)

Website Email Phone Facebook Instagram

Linger Laugh and Learn Center — 1122 1st Ave N, Fargo www.memorycaferrv.org hello@memorycaferrv.org 701-404-6712 Memory Cafe of the Red River Valley @memorycafe_rrv

INSPIRED HOME | 43

Love outdoor living.

Above

Holly Hill Aluminum Dining Set Left

Kanyon 7-Piece Dining Set Custom Options Available: Bar Height, Swivel, and Color

GRAND FORKS | MINOT

TheAmishGallery.com 800-950-8222

The Love App le

garden

BY TERRI FERRAGUT IMAGES COURTESY BURPEE AND LAUREN CARLSON

L

iving in Zone 4, where Mother Nature rarely follows a calendar, I glance out my window and dream of red, ripe, juicy tomatoes on my deck. Let’s explore this amazing garden gift to welcome our tomato growing season.

The French called the tomato the pomme d’amour, or the “Love Apple,” for their powers they believed, could spark romance in those who ate them. Eating tomatoes might not be responsible for creating love, but eating them does seem to spark a definite desire for more.

Tomatoes are a member of the nightshade or Solanaceae family which includes eggplants, potatoes, tobacco, and peppers. The tomato is botanically speaking a fruit and culturally a vegetable. They came to our shores in the early 18th century via Europe, where they had arrived several centuries before New world explorers. Originating in South America, some tomatoes species till grow wild in the Andes.

During WWI and WWII, Victory Gardens were encouraged by homeowners to supplement their family’s rations and boost war-time morale. By the late 1940s, gardening was becoming popular with Americans aided by the Burpee seed company.

They created hybrid varieties that produced easyto-grow, classic red fruits, like the famous Big Boy tomato. Inspired novice gardeners everywhere began raising their own. Today there are more than 7,500 tomato species grown.

HEIRLOOM VS HYBRIDS

Heirloom tomatoes have a story — their seeds have been passed from generation to generation since pre-WWII or developed by a university years ago. These tomatoes are “open” or naturally pollinated by bees, other insects or wind. They are famous for their superb flavors, color, and names that honor their origin. From Aunt Gertie’s Gold and Zebra to the Brandywine tomatoes developed in 1885 by Amish farmers near Brandywine Creek, Pennsylvania, Brandywine holds the heirloom

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tomato standard, with large pinkish-red fruits prized for slicing and eating right off the vine. Heirlooms take longer to mature, are less disease resistant, produce smaller yields and are prone to cracking their thin skins. But their bright colors, quirky looks and flavors are well-worth a try.

Hybrids result from controlled cross pollination by plant breeders to have desired characteristics from 2 different plants.

Less flavorful by heirloom standards, their favorable traits make them popular with gardeners. Disease resistance, improved flavor, early maturity, larger yields, and general dependability make these plants desirable. A hybrid example is the famous Roma-style grape tomato, Juliet, an AllAmerican Selections winner for its superior garden performance. The hybrid Sun Gold, a prolific yellow cherry tomato, is a sweet and delicious candy from the garden.

DETERMINATE VS. INDETERMINATE TOMATOES?

Determinate varieties are early maturing and their characteristics are already determined. Often referred to as “bush” tomatoes, they do not keep growing throughout the season. Usually at 4-5 feet, they stop growing with fruit maturing within a few months. Caging or staking is recommended.

Popular with gardeners who want most of their tomatoes at once, they are perfect for canning or making sauce. Roma and Celebrity are classic determinate tomatoes.

Indeterminate varieties are vining plants that grow and produce tomatoes until frost.

Maturing later, they offer a slow and steady supply of tomatoes, rather than one large harvest. Indeterminate varieties need large stakes or caging since they can reach 6 to 10 feet or taller and become heavy. Pinching back some of the suckers is recommended.

Examples are most Heirlooms and cherry types such as Sun Sugar, Brandywine, Beefsteak, and Big Boy. WHAT SHOULD I GROW?

Consider our growing season — one of the shortest in the United States. With so many options to choose from, like other plants in your garden — a little trial and error go a continued on page 48

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garden

“

Selecting tomatoes can be very subjective. Think about the type of tomato you want to eat.

Dr. Tom Kalb, NDSU Extension Horticulturist

Sheyenne

Sun Sugar

Super Sweet

Big Beef

”

tomato standard, with large pinkish-red fruits prized for slicing and eating right off the vine. Heirlooms take longer to mature, are less disease resistant, produce smaller yields and are prone to cracking their thin skins. But their bright colors, quirky looks and flavors are well-worth a try.

Hybrids result from controlled cross pollination by plant breeders to have desired characteristics from 2 different plants.

Less flavorful by heirloom standards, their favorable traits make them popular with gardeners. Disease resistance, improved flavor, early maturity, larger yields, and general dependability make these plants desirable. A hybrid example is the famous Roma-style grape tomato, Juliet, an AllAmerican Selections winner for its superior garden performance. The hybrid Sun Gold, a prolific yellow cherry tomato, is a sweet and delicious candy from the garden.

Celebrity

Juliette

DETERMINATE VS. INDETERMINATE TOMATOES?

Determinate varieties are early maturing and their characteristics are already determined. Often referred to as “bush” tomatoes, they do not keep growing throughout the season. Usually at 4-5 feet, they stop growing with fruit maturing within a few months. Caging or staking is recommended. Popular with gardeners who want most of their tomatoes at once, they are perfect for canning or making sauce. Roma and Celebrity are classic determinate tomatoes.

Indeterminate varieties are vining plants

Mountain Fresh

Roma

continued on page 50

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la d C a p r e s e Snabe defined by this salad. Perfecitst mer” ca e salad with The word “sum de, the capres si h es en fr a or er use your gard as an appetiz derful way to on w a is e zl balsamic driz tomatoes. : INGREDIENTS large tomato 1 medium to basil leaves ¼ cup fresh eese mozzarella ch 4 oz. fresh ic vinegar 4 tsp. balsam e oil 1 Tbsp. oliv er, to taste salt and pepp ch oximately ¼-in METHOD: zarella in appr oz m d an o at Slice the tom atoes. ding with tom thick slices. nning and en gi be , rs ye la Alternate layers.

Season with Add basil into amic vinegar. ls ba d an l oi ive Drizzle with ol . er pp pe d salt an

Heading for the lakes?

Loving plants for 59 years!

Stop & Shop for all your landscape and garden essentials.

hanging baskets

Thompson Greenery

garden art

annuals

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expanded house plants section

Minutes from Fargo-Moorhead Quick stop on the way to the lakes!

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INSPIRED HOME | 49

garden

that grow and produce tomatoes until frost. Maturing later, they offer a slow and steady supply of tomatoes, rather than one large harvest.

Indeterminate varieties need large stakes or caging since they can reach 6 to 10 feet or taller and become heavy. Pinching back some of the suckers is recommended. Examples are most Heirlooms and cherry types such as Sun Sugar, Brandywine, Beefsteak, and Big Boy.

Early Girl

WHAT SHOULD I GROW?

Consider our growing season — one of the shortest in the United States. With so many options to choose from, like other plants in your garden — a little trial and error go a long way in gardening education.

Inspired Home asked Dr. Tom Kalb, NDSU Extension Horticulturist, for his expert advice.

“Selecting tomatoes can be very subjective. Think about the type of tomato you want to eat. Look for varieties that ripen early, resist diseases and produce good yields of delicious fruit,” Dr. Kalb says. He also adds to think about the tomato vine you want to grow. Determinants are easier to grow and indeterminates produce until frost. Both have their delicious advantages.

Amish Paste

y ll a r u t a n

fresh

“For 38 years, the Hildebrant family farm has proudly served the FM area with fresh, naturally grown fruits, vegetable and flowers.”

— Trina Hildebrant Kalm, third generation farmer

Hildebrant Farm 50 | SUMMER 2022

4th Street East & Main, West Fargo, ND 701.281.1539 | hildebrantfarm.com

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D r. TO M K A LB' S VA R I E TY PIC KS Patio Tomatoes

Celebrity: medium/large 8–16 oz. red fruit, hybrid Early Girl: red fruit, 4–8 oz., hybrid Better Boy: large red fruit, hybrid Big Beef: red fruit, 10–12 oz., hybrid Mountain Fresh Plus: large, smooth 10–12 oz. fruit, hybrid Sheyenne: NDSU bred by Dr. Neil Holland, large 8–12 oz. fruit, heirloom Super Sweet 100: strands of sweet 1 oz. cherries, hybrid Juliet: mini-Roma cherry, sweet grape-like 1 oz. clusters, hybrid Sun Sugar: sweet golden-yellow cherry tomato, hybrid Roma VF: red plum-shaped 2 oz. fruit, heirloom Amish Paste: elongated cherry, 8–12 oz. fruit, heirloom Bush Early Girl: extra-large red fruit, hybrid Patio: compact plant, red 3–4 oz. fruits, hybrid

Dr. Tom Kalb, NDSU Extension Horticulturist

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Love

your tile...

harDwooD | tile | carpet | ViNyl

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Working diligently and professionally until the last installation detail...

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travel

54 | SUMMER 2022

e N S

g in Sum

y ta

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y b r a n

r e m

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o i t a c tay

A

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STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAILEY HOVLAND

TOP: The Lora is stunning inside and out, nestled into the sandstone riverside of downtown Stillwater in Minnesota.

ABOVE: The scenic St. Croix River flows past downtown Stillwater, providing a serene backdrop for the many coffee shops, antique stores and restaurants located in the heart of the town.

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT: Feller, the restaurant attached to Lora, showcases the rich culinary history of Minnesota, offering seasonal cuisine based on produce and protein native to the region, like pheasant, bison and wild mushrooms.

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

uring the pandemic, as borders were closed and international travel was heavily restricted, I found myself itching to get out of the confines of my own house after a few months in lockdown. There weren’t many options for travel, nor did it feel responsible to traverse the nation in search of an adventure while so many were selflessly staying home to keep their communities safe.

With these considerations in mind, I decided to take a staycation. A staycation is best described as a vacation spent in one’s home country rather than abroad, often staying nearby one’s home.

I wanted to go somewhere close to my house in Minneapolis, but far enough away to feel like I was exploring a new place and a new city. I also wanted to stay at a hotel with a unique story, providing my get-away with more history and texture than any Best Western or AmericInn. After a little research, I found the Lora in Stillwater, Minnesota.

Lora is a contemporary hotel built into the foundation of the Empire Brewery, one of Minnesota’s largest breweries in the late 1800s. The building is connected to a series of caves that were used to store beer and source local spring water, tapping into the area’s natural resources and harnessing the caves’ natural refrigeration. Empire Brewery’s beer was advertised as a healing elixir, marketed as “an efficient antidote against fatigue from strenuous work, play or the weakening of old age.”

The modern hotel showcases the original stone walls of the brewery, built into a cliff overlooking downtown Stillwater and the St. Croix River. With vaulted ceilings and visible cave entrances, it maintains its rich history while enhancing the space with modern interior design.

My drive to Stillwater was a smooth transition from urban development INSPIRED HOME | 55

T R AV E L

TOP: The artwork throughout Lora features the talents of local artists, using their unique art styles and perspectives to depict the myths and tales of the area’s historic culture.

ABOVE: I celebrated the start of my staycation with a glass of almond prosecco, the perfect bubbly to kick off the vacation.

TOP, LEFT: The rooms at Lora have historic stone walls, black-and-white patterned flooring, and cozy furniture that makes each room feel like a comfortable, modern and luxurious cave.

LEFT: Downtown Stillwater has an abundance of cheery local shops of a wild variety, including book shops, antique stores, cafes, malt shops and candy stores like Tremblay’s Sweet Shop.

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“

My drive to Stillwater was a smooth transition from urban development to rural living, marked by the shift from city highways and cityscape to craggy rock face and abundance of trees.

to rural living, marked by the shift from city highways and cityscape to craggy rock face and abundance of trees. I arrived at Lora early in the evening, checking in around 5 p.m. The main entrance was a remarkable first impression of the hotel, with four stories of stone and a rustic wooden sign with gold lettering depicting the hotel’s name. Upon entering, I was greeted by creamy white walls and modern design elements, with a crystal-clear view of the full restaurant and bar attached to the hotel. My room was up on the third floor, marked by a golden hare door knocker.

I swiped my key card to get into my room and was greeted with a black-and-white patterned carpet and soothing blue stone walls. The bathroom had fully transparent glass to highlight a stunning shower, and the walls were adorned with romantic artwork depicting a woman slightly obscured by burntyellow flowers. The bedroom featured clean linen bedding and a small seating area with leather chairs and furry ottomans.

I brought a bottle of almond prosecco to properly celebrate my solo staycation and popped her open for a celebratory drink before embarking downstairs to order from the Feller, the restaurant attached to the hotel. The menu showcased meals inspired by the culinary traditions of the Great North, centered around Midwest ingredients like prairie quail, grassfed bison and venison. I ordered the stuffed pheasant breast, with cognac pheasant sausage stuffing, squash-chestnut purée, huckleberry lacquer, fermented mushroom, carrot and shallot, paired with an amaretto sour. The flavor profile was incredible and reminded me of dinner at my grandmother’s house following one of my uncle’s successful pheasant hunts.

I spent the rest of the evening wandering the streets of downtown Stillwater, leisurely INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

”

Achieve Beautiful Gardens with tips from Master Gardener, Tony Randall

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INSPIRED HOME | 57

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ABOVE: Stillwater’s Union Alley is embellished by this impressive mural, providing the downtown area with a touch of color and flair.

RIGHT: American Gothic Antiques is chock full of unique and well-preserved finds, including original Elton John records, vintage prints, coffee mugs and more.

58 | summer 2022

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“

I spent the rest of the evening wandering the streets of downtown Stillwater, leisurely strolling the streets and peeking into local shops like Tremblay’s Sweet Shop, American Gothic Antiques and Black Letter Books.

”

e n i W !

e m i T

strolling the streets and peeking into local shops like Tremblay’s Sweet Shop, American Gothic Antiques and Black Letter Books. After a short tour of downtown, I returned to my hotel room for a good night’s sleep and a few episodes of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

The next morning, I checked out of Lora and hit the streets of downtown Stillwater again, stopping to buy some coffee before setting out on the town. I ventured through the tight aisles of American Gothic Antiques, flipping through Motown records and admiring art deco rings displayed in large glass cabinets. I walked along the St. Croix River, taking in the calm of the early morning. And, finally, I made my way back to my car, starting my trip back to Minneapolis after a short, albeit sweet, staycation in Stillwater, Minnesota.

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FREE 5 lb. bag of ice with purchase Expires August 31st, 2022

3 minutes south of We Fest on Hwy. 59 Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 218.847.BEER (2337) I 218.846.WINE (9463) www.7sistersspirits.com INSPIRED HOME | 59

Nature's Finest

WE'VE MOVED | New Location: 3002 39th Street South Fargo, ND

Stone is our World St. Cloud, MN 320.251.1540

Monday-Thursday 8:00-4:30 Friday 8:00-3:00

Twin Cities, MN 952.697.3405

Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00 Saturday by Appointment Only

3002 39th Street South Fargo ND 701.364.0940 stoneholding.com Sarah Dolyniuk Fargo Showroom Lead

Sioux Falls, SD 605.213.3330

Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00 Saturday by Appointment Only

Fargo, ND 701.364.0940

Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00 Saturday by Appointment Only

good living

Let ’s Picnic!

BY TERRI FERRAGUT

T

he sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and that gingham tablecloth folded neatly in the linen closet all winter is ready to make its much-anticipated return. It’s time for a picnic! Outdoor meals require little planning and can be as simple or as elegant as you’d like. With just a bit of preparation, you’re set to go.

Consider packing two containers. Take a picnic basket for tableware and nonperishable items and a cooler for cold food and beverages. Cold foods should be kept at 40°F or colder.

Although summer living can be as fast-paced as other seasons, nature gives us all a muchneeded opportunity to commune with the natural world.

Forget your cares. Forget your worries. A relaxing picnic with friends and family is just what you need to regroup and re-energize your soul.

62 | summer 2022

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INSPIRED HOME | 63

good living

BORN OF IRISH PRIDE...

Sam Corr, owner and head brewer, welcomes you to Drumconrath Brewery, a regional name in craft beers.

His Irish pride and passion guarantee beer lovers everywhere a unique experience!

CHECK OUT THESE EVENTS THIS SUMMER!

Trivia Tuesdays | Live Music Wednesdays Open Mic Night Thursdays 6/18 7/14-7/16 7/15 8/6

Jimbo Jones Alley Concert Street Fair Gina Powers Band Alley Show Divine Drag Show

630 1st Ave N, Suite 6 • Fargo, ND 701.491.0574 DRUMCONRATHBREWING.COM

Enter a world of classic nostalgic charm...

Violet Vintage is a charming boutique, offering exquisite vintage selections from the 1920s–1970s. ] One-on-one personal service ] Tucked just behind Dakota Fine Art Gallery ] Historic setting on beautiful 8th St in Downtown Fargo

701.478.4525 violetvintage62@gmail.com @violetvintagefargo 11 8th St S., Fargo, North Dakota 64 | summer 2022

]]] MENTION INSPIRED HOME TO RECEIVE A 15% DISCOUNT ON YOUR PURCHASE.

Pack your basket in reverse order to make it easy to get to the items you need when you arrive at your picnic site. Place nonperishable food on the bottom, then serving items and tableware, and finally the tablecloth on top.

If you’re feeding a lot of people, bring two coolers. Because opening the cooler allows the cold air to escape, use one for frequently used items such as beverages. Use the second cooler for perishable foods like meats and salads.

Bring along plastic garbage bags to cart home dirty dishes and silverware as well as garbage, in case there are no trash barrels at the picnic site.

When packing a cooler, it should be about 25% ice and 75% food. Place ice on the bottom and along the sides of the cooler. Then place the heaviest and most perishable foods on top of the ice. Fill in with lighter items.

Transfer chilled foods directly from the refrigerator to the cooler.

Don’t use the cooler to chill warm or room temperature items. A full cooler will stay colder longer than one that is partially empty, so choose an appropriately sized cooler. If food doesn’t fill your cooler, add more ice.

Large pieces of ice melt more slowly than ice cubes. If you plan to be gone awhile, use chunks of ice instead of ice cubes. Simply fill clean empty milk cartons with water and freeze.

To protect your cooler from the sun’s rays, place it in the shade as soon as you arrive at your picnic spot.

Consider purchasing a goodquality cooler. Nobody wants to tote a fragile, unwieldy plastic foam container filled with ice. Pay a little extra for a great cooler, it’s a great investment you and your family will enjoy for years.

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Visit us on historic 8th street!

Parisian Flea Market Treasures

vintage & designer jewelry mirrors | furniture | lamps

Elle Michelle Shop PAR I S I AN F L E A M AR K E T TR EA S U R ES

1 1/2 8TH ST S. FARGO, ND 701.371.6856 ELLEMICHELLESHOP.COM

B O URB O N C A N D IE D B AC O N D EV ILED E G G S

HIDDEN GEMS FOR EVERYONE!

A perfect partner for your special summer outing.

FILLING INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

2 Tbs.

brown sugar

¾ tsp.

Dijon mustard

½ tsp.

maple syrup

Preheat the oven to 350°. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ¾ tsp. mustard, ½ tsp. syrup and salt. If desired, stir in bourbon. Coat bacon with brown sugar mixture. Place bacon on a rack in a foillined 15- by 10- by 1-inch baking pan.

Bake 25-30 minutes or until crisp. Cool completely.

1/8 tsp. salt 2 tsp.

bourbon, optional

4

thick-sliced bacon strips

EGGS: 12

hard-boiled large eggs

¾ cup

mayonnaise

1 Tbs.

maple syrup

1 Tbs.

Dijon mustard

¼ tsp.

pepper

¼ tsp.

ground chipotle pepper

Minced fresh chives

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Cut eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks, reserving whites. In a small bowl, mash yolks. Add mayonnaise, 1 Tbs. syrup, 1 Tbs. mustard and both types of pepper; stir until smooth.

Chop bacon finely; fold half into egg yolk mixture. Spoon or pipe into egg whites. Sprinkle with remaining bacon and the chives. Refrigerate, covered, until serving.

Check out our completely redesigned store full of yesteryear items to be treasured for a lifetime.

Reed & Taylor Antiques 806 MAIN AVE, FARGO, ND 701.241.4520 reeandtaylorantiques.com INSPIRED HOME | 65

Kitchen Smarts LET’S MAKE PIZZA!

Who doesn’t love pizza? Pizza is one undeniable love we all can admit to. It’s difficult to imagine a time when it was not a major American food group, but like a lot of Americans, it immigrated.

The Italian “pie” and its ingredients arrived by immigrants in the late 19th century.

Want authentic Italian pizza at home, anytime, or anywhere? Like all great food, the secret is in the cooking tools.

Introducing Ooni Outdoor Pizza Ovens at Creative Kitchen. Ooni ovens heat to 950 degrees Fahrenheit in 15-20 minutes, allowing you to achieve authentically flame cooked toppings and a signature leopard-spotted crust in as little as 60 seconds. These ovens are also easily portable and a breeze to use at the beach, in your backyard, or on the deck. What are you waiting for? Let’s make pizza!

OOni Pizza Cutter rOCKer Blade - $24.99 Cut whole pizzas in half with one quick move using the Ooni Pizza Cutter Rocker Blade.

No more labored sawing through your pizza to get it carved up for the group to enjoy!

Ultra-sharp, stainless-steel blade is 14 inches long | Comfortable, easy-grip handle | Dishwasher safe; avoid abrasive cleaning materials

OOni Karu 12” Pizza Oven - $398.99

OOni KOda 12” Pizza Oven - $398.99

OOni KOda 16” Pizza Oven - $598.99

• Powder-coated carbon steel shell • One-touch propane gas ignition • Natural gas conversion kit available • Extra thick 15mm baking board for large 16” pizzas • Portable weight, 40.1 lb, 28x16x30 inches

• Stylish design with durable powder-coated steel • Super-fast heating • One-touch gas ignition and heat control • Portable weight, 20.4 lb, 18x11x28 • Reaches 950°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes

• Powder-coated, carbon steel shell • One-touch gas ignition and heat control, reaches 950˚ in 15 minutes • Extra thick 15mm baking board for large 16” pizzas • Portable, 40.1 lb, 28x16x30 inches

West Acres Mall, Fargo, ND www.CreativeKitchenFargo.com 701.282.8694

cuisine

68 | summer 2022

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SUMMER, Isn’t it Just Peachy?

BY GRANVILLE WOOD

E

very season has a scent, a distinctive aroma that causes an immediate sensual stimulus. Winter for me is the smell of a steaming mug of hot chocolate laced with peppermint schnapps, along with a roaring fire. Spring brings forth the musty wet aroma of the frozen ground letting go of the cold winter. Fall is an easy one. Burning leaves on the cool breeze drifting through the bare tree branches.

And then there is summer.

Summer is sweet, clean and bright. The curtain has gone up and nature is proudly showing her wares. Freshly mowed grass, the burst of the first-cut watermelon, suntan lotion and the smell of the pool.

For me it’s the sweet smell of a lush, treeripened peach as the juices flow down my chin on a hot summer’s day. A close second and slightly unusual one is the scent given off by tomato plants when you pick the fruit and brush against the leaves. Either way you slice them, these are my two summer favorites.

Peaches are more elusive in North Dakota than are apples, which thrive in the summer and can tolerate the bitter cold winter. Peaches will grow and love the heat, but the winter is not their friend.

Early arrivals from the Carolinas and

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Texas come north in July, announcing that summer has arrived. They are slightly bruised but bearing the characteristic sweet aroma and juiciness I grew up with at the farm. The farm was in southern Ontario where the alluvial soil is rich and dark. I used to sit with my back against the tree I had just climbed to get the sweetest fruit at the top. The breeze is warm and silky against my tanned skin.

Summer was switched on, with peaches at the farm stands doting the country back roads. Life was good.

“An apple is an excellent thing — until you have tried a peach.”

— George du Maurier

Peach trees, it turns out, were the first invasive species to arrive on our shores from, of all places, China via Central America and the conquistadors. When I say invasive that is an understatement.

From Florida to New Jersey, you could find peach trees growing wild everywhere and in between. Of the three hundred or so varieties, you are probably most familiar with the Elberta or Golden Glory.

INSPIRED HOME | 69

cuisine

"My all-time favorite baked peach dish is a thick, warm, piece of Kuchen with its crunchy, sticky crust and soft peachy filling topped with a generous dollop of clotted cream."

— Granville Wood

70 | SUMMER 2022

The major types are the Clingstone and Freestone and, true to their names, it is how they interact with the pit or the stone. Clingstones hold on tight to the pit while Freestones comes away easier. A ripe peach should be heavy with juice, yellow at the stem and have that ethereal aroma and sensual texture.

Clingstones show up in stores from May until October. Soft, sweet and juicy, they are excellent for canning, preserving and for baking that iconic summer favorite, peach pie. Freestones are larger and stay on the shelves into late October and show up in cobblers and pies. Don’t cool that pie on your windowsill because someone I know just might knick it. Peaches are much more versatile in culinary circles than just baking. I like to split them, remove the pit and grill them cut side down over a hot fire, serving them next to grilled chicken or roast pork belly. The sweet, smoky juiciness breathes life into the innocuous chicken while cutting though the richness of the pork belly.

Another off-beat way to utilize ripe peaches is to peel them, pit them and finely dice them to use in a vinaigrette dressing. I like to add some zip to it with the addition of finely minced jalapeno pepper, chives or shallots and a squeeze of lime. Drizzle this over some grilled walleye or lake trout and sit back to enjoy a new dimension of flavor. My all-time favorite baked peach dish is a thick, warm piece of Kuchen with its crunchy, sticky crust and soft peachy filling topped with a generous dollop of clotted cream.

Another simple pleasure is fuzzy, juicy slices served over homemade ice cream or, better yet, peach ice cream. Now to really knock your socks off, sauté thick wedges of peaches in some sweet butter and dust with sugar. Cook until the sugar is caramelized, then add a splash of bourbon and a touch of heavy cream. Ladle it over bowls of good vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Now that is really peachy. continued on page 64

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“

Training is everything. The peach was once a bitter almond, cauliflower is nothing but a cabbage with a college education.

— Mark Twain

”

It all started with the idea of a pastry shop 20 years ago, serving handmade, carefully thought-out dessert’s.

Today we connnue to move forward, expanding our offerings and adding a more enncing savory side.

Thank YOU for following, tassng and watching us grow with our community.

Turbinado Sugar — What is it?

While refined white sugar can be derived from sugar cane or sugar beets, turbinado comes exclusively from the first pressing of sugar cane.

The cane juice is boiled just once, unlike refined granulated sugar, which is boiled multiple times to rid all residual molasses and brown color. The boiling process causes the sugar to crystallize, and those crystals are then whirled in a centrifuge—or turbine, to spin off excess moisture. The result is turbinado sugar.

Turbinado grains are coarser than refined white sugar, which is why they make an ideal finishing sugar. Unlike regular refined sugar, turbinado— also known as raw sugar—won’t melt into the batter while baking, so you’ll be left with a crunchy, sparkly, gourmet-looking finish to your bake goods.

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DOWNTOWN FARGO | nicholesfinepastry.com | 701.232.6430

INSPIRED HOME | 71

cuisine

PEACH KU C HE N W IT H VA NI LL A I C E C R E A M DOUGH INGREDIENTS:

FILLING INGREDIENTS:

½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pea-sized pieces and well chilled

6 large peaches, peeled and sliced

2 large egg yolks

¾ cup sugar

1 cup full-fat sour cream

I teaspoon cinnamon

Turbinado sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour ¼ tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. kosher salt 2 Tbsp. sugar

METHOD:

METHOD:

Arrange peach slices in the tart pan and bake for 15 minutes. Pour cream mixture over peaches, sprinkle with a generous amount of turbinado sugar and bake for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400F. In a food processor, pulse all ingredients until coarse and butter still is present. In an ungreased 8-inch straightsided tart pan with a false bottom, press mixture evenly across the bottom and the sides. Chill for 15 minutes.

72 | SUMMER 2022

Toss peach slices with and sugar and set aside. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sour cream.

Let cool slightly. Cut slices and top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

NOTE: To quickly peel peaches, cut a small X in the top of the peach (opposite end from the stem). Plunge into slightly boiling water for a few moments, lift out and drop into an ice bath. The skins should slip off easily using a paper towel. Do not cook the peaches.

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WHAT:

FREE 2022 Community Summer Reading Challenge

WHEN:

June 1 August 20

WHO:

Events & reading incentives for ALL ages

WHERE:

SOUT H WE S T P E AC H V INAIGRETT E This is superb on grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp!

101 4th Street North, Main Library

MORE INFO: 701.241.1472 fargolibrary.org

INGREDIENTS: 2 large ripe peaches, peeled and finely diced 1 Tbsp. minced shallot 1 Tbsp. minced jalapeno, seeds and ribs removed 1 cup vegetable oil ½ cup white wine vinegar Juice of half a lime (add more to taste) 1 tsp. pure maple syrup 2 Tbsp. cilantro leaves, finely minced Optional: 1 Tbsp. white tequila

METHOD: Place all ingredients in a glass jar, cover and give it a good shake.

VARIATIONS: Go Italian: Replace lime juice with orange juice, cilantro with basil, red chili flakes for the jalapeno and add a splash of Prosecco.

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The best coffee in town!

We are a coffee & food experience - the perfect place to chill with friends or meet for business.

• coffee & tea drinks • homemade pastries • breakfast • lunch

EXCITING NEWS! OPENING SOON

Babb’s 2nd location at the Historic Ford Building 505 Broadway.

701.271.0222

babbscoffeehouse.com 604 Main Avenue, Fargo, ND

INSPIRED HOME | 73

ingredients

Rose Water Revelry

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN FERRAGUT CARLSON

74 | summer 2022

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

F

rom gin cocktails and jams to candies and cupcakes, rose water has been a staple in my kitchen over the past few years. From flavoring added to food to a relaxing and fragrant sensory addition to your bathwater, rose water is heavenly. It has been a desirable essence since medieval times when it was first used for washing hands before a meal.

It is common in both Muslim and Hindu religious ceremonies and is at the center

INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

of many Turkish and Mexican desserts and candies.

In early days, rose water began its genesis in Iran when women in the villages steeped the sepals and petals of roses to condense the flowers’ fragrant aroma. It didn’t take long for the pleasing edible floral fragrance to be a desired addition in flavoring food.

It was only a matter of time before it found its way into the mainstream.

While I was working at Cornell University

in New York, my Turkish friends, Didem and Okray, then students, personally introduced me to using rose water to flavor food.

The beautiful fragrance and captivating appearance of the rose or gül, as it is called in Turkish, grows abundantly in Turkey.

Harvested there still today, roses are used in fragrant oils, perfumes, jams and sweets.

My Turkish friends loved the flavor of rose and for good reason — soon I became an enthusiastic believer, too.

INSPRIED HOME | 75

ingredients As an avid baker, a progression of my interest in natural flavors was to introduce rose water into my own baked goods.

Originally, I incorporated it as a distinctive addition to Turkish Delight, a traditional Turkish candy. I then decided to add this unique and delicious flavor to cupcakes. My preference is to bake cakes over cupcakes,

but it seemed like the time was right for me to add rose water into a simple but flavorful cupcake. I was inspired to do just that — my roses were in full bloom on the patio and I was ready for another baking adventure.

Rose water or “rose-scented” nearly anything can be either ethereal and elegant or possibly soapy and pungent. Just remember, a

little rose water goes a long way in flavoring. I researched a few recipes and ended up cutting back the amount of rose water after a few test runs. The following recipe is so simple.

You can whip these cupcakes up in a matter of minutes. For those of you who haven’t experienced the deliciousness of rose water, you will be surprised and greatly pleased.

These cupcakes are super easy to make! They are made of the usual suspects but with a floral twist: flour, butter, sugar, and a leavening agent. The special ingredient in this case, of course, is rose water.

Before frosting the cupcakes, I spread a very small amount of rose jam on the cupcakes for extra deliciousness. Note: When you are hungry for a snack, rose water jam pairs very well with Parmesan cheese.

I have never owned a pastry bag, but with Zip Lock around, who needs them? So easy to do- just fill the bag, snip the corner, and you are ready to go!

When you are done, just toss them in the garbage can.

ROS E WAT E R C U P C A K E S This is a great introduction to this cupcake. They are totally subtle, floral and summery. Enjoy!

DIRECTIONS

CAKE ½ cup

unsalted butter, softened

¾ cups

sugar

1

egg

1 tsp.

pure vanilla extract

1 1/8

cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp.

baking powder

½ tsp.

salt

1 tbsp.

rose water

½ cup

whole milk

76 | summer 2022

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg, followed by the vanilla and rosewater. Mix until pale yellow.

In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking powder and salt. Gradually add to stand mixer at low speed, alternating with the milk.

Dollop batter into 12 lined cupcake tins.

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FROSTING 1 cup

unsalted butter, room temperature

3 cups

icing sugar, or to taste

1 tsp.

pure vanilla extract

1½ tsp.

rose water*

“

As an avid baker, a progression of my interest of natural flavors was to introduce rose water into my own baked goods.

2 – 3 drops pink food coloring

”

DIRECTIONS For the buttercream, add butter, sugar, vanilla and rose water to the bowl of a stand mixer. Beat until frosting is light and fluffy, about 8-10 minutes. Add red food coloring until the desired color is reached. Finish off by frosting each cupcake with a swirl.

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NorthernStone.com 701-297-2255

*NOTE: Pure rose water is a heavenly flavor traditionally used in Greek pastries, pudding and cakes. Though rose water is quite easy to make at home, Inspired Home did a little research and found two local companies that sell rose water —just in time for your first foray into the rose water experience!

SWANSON’S HEALTH PRODUCTS: 4501 15th Ave. South, Fargo, 701.293.9842 TOCHI PRODUCTS: 1111 2nd Ave. North, Fargo, 701.232.7700

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backyard

Here comes the shade

BY ASHLEY FERRAGUT JOHNSON MAGES COURTESY TREASURE GARDEN

Pictured here is the 10' Lotus Collar Tilt, Octagon series.

When closing, this exclusive umbrella retracts beautifully upward like the elegant Lotus flower that it is named after.

A

t long last, summer as arrived.

It’s time for lengthy warm days, ice cold drinks and hazy orange sunsets. While the heat is a welcome change from months past, it’s also important to know how to stay cool when desired, and how to do it in style. For decades, Treasure Gardens has been crafting high end and unique umbrellas to cast a little shade on the warmth of the high noon sun. Inspired Home reached out to Treasure Garden and spoke with National Sales Manager Candy Chase, who says that while the primary

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2523 12TH AVE S, UNIT R, MOORHEAD, MN | SIGNATUREHOMETECH.COM | INFO@SIGNATUREHOMETECH.COM

78 | summer 2022

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purpose of “shade products” is protection from the sun, their function does not end there.

Chase explains that umbrellas are an excellent way to divide an outdoor space creating defined areas. She also says they can add “splashes of color and personality to a patio or poolside terrace.” A well-placed umbrella acts as would a piece of furniture in a family room or kitchen. It creates a purpose for an outdoor space and essentially designates a gathering area out of nowhere.

One of the more charming and forwardthinking attributes of Treasure Garden umbrellas is the varying styles and pieces its companies offer. The very foundation of Treasure Garden was built upon the celebration of culture around the world, so it is not a surprise that their value of worldliness is reflected in the products they handcraft day in and day out.

“We offer unique original designs like the Milan (inspired by the European fashion runways) to the ‘Stardust’ and its star-like

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shape drawing upon old Hollywood influences.

The ‘Shanghai’ and its inverted scalloped edge and pronounced internal rib design capitalizes upon inspiration from the historic Asian culture.” Chase goes on to explain, in almost poetic detail, that the ‘Lotus’ series was named for the way the umbrella dramatically opens and closes upon itself like a flower.

It also pays tribute to floral fields and the natural beauty embodied by the flower itself.

“The fact that our designers draw inspiration from our international presence and those cultures is a major part of the Treasure Garden design story,” Chase says. As if the plethora of well-thought out designs isn’t enough, they are also a “vertically integrated manufacturer.” She explains that essentially involves a company that can produce its goods from start to finish without outsourcing a majority of its operation. By doing so, they have control over the quality of their merchandise, assuring that customers have access to the finest consumables.

The charm of these vertically integrated,

Light up the night with this 9' Starlight Collar Tilt Octagon Series. Shown in Cast Silver, it provides cool shade by day and illumination by night—perfect for summer entertaining.

INSPIRED HOME | 79

backyard The 11' AG Cantilever Octagon series with a Jockey Red umbrella boasts a full 360º rotation and provides 85 sq. ft. of coverage. With graceful lines, it's a respite from the sun.

The beauty of the Shanghai Collar Tilt Round Series with umbrella in Henna, is a stunning addition for your backyard. Providing 70 sq. ft. of shady relief—a welcoming sight on hot afternoons.

well-designed outdoor parasols is not only because of their function, but also their aesthetics. Large, brightly colored pieces will draw the eye to an outdoor space, commanding your attention to a place of refuge and an area to take shelter from the sweltering sun. Likewise, an umbrella more neutral in stature will offer pool guests and summer strollers a place to sip lemonade and hold quiet conversations while melting into the background. The style, shape and size of umbrella can become just as personal a choice as the furniture you chose to decorate the interior of your home. Whatever your style, be it contemporary, traditional or exotic and unique, there is a shade product designed with you in mind. Open your umbrella, and your backyard to the endless possibilities of summer fun. It’s pretty hot outside and umbrellas have never been cooler.

SINK YOUR TEETH INTO THIS! CHECK OUT

FIRST AREA FEMALE BUTCHER

BUTCHER MELISSA EVANS’S

LOCALLY SOURCED BEEF

LOCALLY SOURCED BEEF FOR YOUR NEXT BARBEQUE! 80 | summer 2022

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Visit our showroom to view the beauty of a fire.

Model Shown: Mezzo Linear Indoor Gas Fireplace

1750 45th Street S. | Fargo, ND | 701.893.9300 www.homeandhearthfireplaces.com Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM and Sat-9AM-1PM

wine wisdom

Chelsey’s Picks for Bubbles

Chelsey Malstrom, Seven Sisters Spirits, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

Contarini Blanc de Blancs Extra Dry My pick for affordable bubbly is this blend of Glera (the grape used in prosecco), Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio with a touch of Pinot Bianco.

The Contarini winery devotes 80% of all its production to prosecco using predominantly Glera–a cost-effective way to get prosecco goodness! Light, bright and dry, this sparkling wine has a minerality expression– perfect for fun summer cocktails or enjoying solo.

Cava Emendis Nu Allonge Brut This Cava (Spanish sparkling wine) hails from near Barcelona and is a blend of three native Spanish grapes: Xarel-lo, Macabeu and Parellada. Rich in color and flavor, Cava is a good mix of fresh citrus, while being grounded with nice soft oak notes. Enjoy the fresh brightness with refreshing orange and almond on the finish.

Not quite sure which Champagne to buy? Use this simple guide to help you with your purchase!

Cheers!

Chelsey Malstrom

Classic Bubbly Cocktails Enjoy two of my favorite Champagne cocktails. Perfect for summer entertaining on the deck.

Coupe DeVille 1 shot pear vodka ½ shot fresh lemon juice ½ shot of pear liqueur 1 dash of bitters 1 Tbsp. honey (or agave syrup) (Shake the above ingredients with ice) Pour into a Champagne flute Fill the rest of the Champagne flute with bubbles.

French 75 1 shot gin ½ shot fresh lemon juice Fill rest of the Champagne flute with bubbles Garnish with a cherry (Ice is optional) 82 | SUMMER 2022

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INSPIRED HOME | 83

Distinctive

Commercial & Residential Design

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