The HOME Issue
HOME + DESIGN
INSIDE THE MENAGERIE: PART 1 WITH STACY KEIBLER, BECCA TOBIN, ODETTE ANNABLE, GEN PADALECKI, JAMIE LYNN SIGLER AND KIMBERLY VAN DER BEEK





HOME + DESIGN
INSIDE THE MENAGERIE: PART 1 WITH STACY KEIBLER, BECCA TOBIN, ODETTE ANNABLE, GEN PADALECKI, JAMIE LYNN SIGLER AND KIMBERLY VAN DER BEEK
Welcome to our Home Issue and the busy month of March.
Late last year I was invited on a day-long press trip to The Menagerie in Fredericksburg. From the moment we stepped inside The Rapture Mansion, I was in awe of the colorful art that wallpapered every wall, the chandeliers, lamps and fixtures in every room, the unique pieces and overall maximalism of The Menagerie. It’s the kind of place where there’s at least something to lead any lover of art or antiques to say, ‘I wish my home was like this.’ Subsequently choosing The Menagerie for the cover of the Home Issue was an easy choice, and The Menagerie’s brand partner Meldeen curated such a lovely day for us I wanted to share the experience with others, and I invited a group of Austin women who are all best friends to have a Ladies Day Out, while capturing it for the magazine. The result- more magical moments, photos, memories and whimsical spaces than can be captured in one issue – so we’ve made it two! For the Home Issue, you’ll see Stacy Keibler, Becca Tobin, Jamie Lynn Sigler, Gen Padalecki, Odette Annable and Kimberly Van Der Beek getting lost individually in the beauty of The Menagerie. In May, (spoiler alert!) they grace the cover of the Ladies Issue. How could we not?
This month I’m also excited about SXSW, where they’ve added a fashion track to the ever-expanding programming, and I’m thrilled to be having a fireside chat with the phenomenal Iskra Lawrence, who graced our December Issue. If you’re attending the festival, come check it out! Speaking of fashion, Sezane, a Paris boutique that has amassed quite a fan base in Austin is opening on Music Lane. I’ve been a fan of the brand since they did a pop-up last year, and the dress in this month’s editor’s letter photo, taken by Jenna McElroy at Lodgewell’s The Falling Leaves home, is a Sezane dress and like most of their pieces, truly timeless.
Wishing you a marvelous March and see you in April for our first annual ‘Investment Issue!'
Cheers,
March 2024
Joe Kerby | joe.kerby@citylifestyle.com
Lemonada Studios’ Angelica Connelly on her approach to interiors that goes deeper than what you see.
YOU HAVE A UNIQUE APPROACH TO INTERIOR DESIGN, CAN YOU EXPLAIN?
My approach is to design as a form of therapy. My secret sauce is helping folks who thought decorating was frivolous and giving them a reason to believe that the built environment is one way we create moods, make memories, find solace, and even community. I always say, ‘You can buy a dress and wear it once, but you look at a lamp every day.’
In my observation, our preferences and aversions often trace back to early life experiences. For example, when someone expresses a strong dislike for things like stripes, specific colors, or textures, it typically stems from an experience or environment that didn’t evoke a sense of security. The narrative we create for ourselves is that reintroducing those elements into our living spaces will recreate those unsettling experiences. However, upon recognizing the origins of these dislikes, there’s usually a moment of realization, leading to an eventual acceptance of things they initially despised. The journey of good design is as much a self-realization practice as it is providing form and function. I encourage my clients to reflect on the factors influencing their personal choices and preferences. In a society often fixated on conformity or succumbing to the commercialized ideals of what we should desire, it’s essential to be mindful of our individual motivations.
“The journey of good design is as much a selfrealization practice as it is providing form and function.”
1. WHO is going to use that room? Is this space designed for a chef or an eater? This distinction will directly impact the required equipment and countertop space in your planning. Enthusiastic cooks may require a fully equipped kitchen, while those who view the oven as additional shoe storage might prefer a bar stool island set up with a microwave tucked away in a corner.
2. WHAT are they going to do there?
The What influences the selection of lighting and furniture for the room, ensuring that the intended users find it suitable. Is it intended as a TV room or a space for socializing and drinks? Is it meant to serve as a family bathroom or a practical en suite?
3. WHEN are they going to be doing it? Consider the When prompts considerations about color and the source of light—whether natural or artificial. Will the primary use by the intended users and for the intended purpose be during the evening or in the morning’s natural light? It’s probable that the space needs to accommodate both ends of the day but remains largely vacant in the middle. We determine whether the activities will rely more on artificial light or natural light, as this influences the choice of paint color to ensure it complements both scenarios.
It was my favorite drink during the hot summers I spent in Greece as a child. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and brings up feelings of nostalgia for me. These feelings of summertime, outdoor time, etc. evoke feelings of relaxation and enjoyment.
TAKING
“One inexpensive place to start would be lighting and cabinet hardware.” - Alyssa Rome on quick kitchen
Alyssa Rome Design’s namesake says to update this kitchen circa 1997, “We went with neutral tones and natural textures for an overall timeless design, but added some trendy elements that can easily be replaced down the road like the lighting and cabinet hardware,” adding, “This is the way to go if you don’t end up wanting to rip out your whole kitchen again in 10 years!” She says the cost was about $80,000, inclusive of design time. Learn more at https://alyssaromedesign.com/
Stacy
Becca Tobin, Genevieve Padalecki, Jamie Lynn Sigler, Odette Annable and Kimberly Van Der Beek joined Austin Lifestyle to spend time admiring the décor and design of the magical and luxury private estate rental property, The Menagerie in Fredericksburg.
The story of the property begins in 1910, when it became the home of the first Mayor of Fredericksburg, Joe Stein. The current owners, Nicole and Ramzi Al Rashid, purchased the property early 2021 and at the suggestion of their daughter, brought in maximalist designer Sarah Stacey Interior Design to overhaul the aesthetic. The result is a bold and whimsical style that brings guests’ wallpaper, colors and unique antique fantasies to life. Building on the original mansion, a Queen Anne Victorian home, the carriage house and the former barn as well as the upstairs attic are now decadent suites, and there are 4 stand-alone bungalows circa the 1930s across the street with private lawn spaces and porches. They all share a pool, hot tub and outdoor fireplace cabana, accessible by paths woven together with a landscape renovation by the talented Twistleaf Land Design.
Guests who stay at the property can choose a room that suits their mood, each with fun names like the “A Little Bit Alexis” Bungalow, which Kaleigh Wiese, owner of Méldeen, The Menagerie’s brand strategy partner says “is both a nod to the owner’s daughter Alexis and also the show Schitt’s Creek, that the Al Rashid’s love.” One of the most iconic suites to reserve is The Temptress Suite, in the former barn, that has an oversized
clawfoot tub (pictured above) that sits in front of an original stained-glass window.
Whether in the expansive 3-bedroom mansion or one of two more intimate attic suites, each of the 11 units features fully outfitted kitchenettes, TVs, mini-fridges, complimentary mini bars stocked with Texas-sourced snacks, welcome beverages, hightouch amenities and signature robes to use during your stay.
“We have a desire to level up the community of Fredericksburg with first-ofits-kind luxury accommodations that offer once-in-a-lifetime concierge experiences incorporating local brands and businesses.”
-Kaleigh Wiese, owner of Méldeen, The Menagerie’s brand strategy partner
But, what guests walk away remembering, is the unique maximalist style.
“Both the interior designer Sarah and Nicole & Ramzi share a love for antique stores, auctions and estate sales,” shares Kaleigh.
“Most of the pieces on the property are intentionally selected and finding new life here including artwork and antique chandeliers. The eclectic wallpaper you will find in each space is from a variety of designers and are both hand-painted and limited edition prints.
I consider each space here to be like a speakeasy as you discover something new each time. Knowing Sarah, Nicole & Ramzi’s love
of found objects, and a little bit of weird, our team has helped tell the brand story that shares its past history and future hope of this historical space and town. The Menagerie experience we have created truly embodies the essence of bold, whimsy, and soulful rest.”
The owners’ passion extends to the community, which they look to lift up with local partnerships (like a custom-blended
wine from Meierstone Vineyards). Kaleigh says, “We have a desire to level up the community of Fredericksburg with firstof-its-kind luxury accommodations that offer once-in-a-lifetime concierge experiences that incorporate local brands and businesses. Its hotel service meets Airbnb privacy - the best of both worlds!”
The former wrestler has been calling Austin home since 2021
PHOTOGRAPHYMarch has been big for Stacy Keibler. Last March she was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, after an illustrious career she retired from in 2006. This March she’s celebrating 10 years of marriage with husband Jared Pobre, with whom she has a skincare line. While on a weekend away at The Menagerie, we sat down for a chat.
WHAT LED YOU TO MOVE TO AUSTIN?
We were living in Jackson Hole, WY and my husband had Austin on his radar due to the growing tech scene and also being a great place to raise a family.
WHAT WERE YOU LOOKING FOR IN A HOUSE?
A family-friendly house that was central to our friends, close to downtown, restaurants, South Congress…
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR HOUSE?
We have a huge oak tree that our house was built around, and it makes it feel like we live in a treehouse.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT LIVING IN AUSTIN?
Besides the awesome food scene and the exciting events that constantly come through, Austin is a great place for raising a family. The blend of city life and natural beauty provides an abundance of family-friendly activities, from engaging experiences at The Thinkery to Urban Air and Crux Climbing, my kids are loving the variety this city offers. Despite having lived here for several years, there are still so many things we’re eager to explore!
SPEAKING OF FAMILY, YOU’VE BEEN MARRIED 10 YEARS THIS MONTH! ANY SECRETS TO A HAPPY, ENDURING MARRIAGE TO SHARE?
I’m lucky because Jared and I are an amazing team, and with three children, communication is key! Respect, quality time, and encouraging each other’s personal growth are super important to us.
YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND OWN CALDERA + LAB, A MEN’S SKINCARE LINE; HOW DID THAT COME ABOUT?
It started when we moved to the harsh climate in the mountains of Jackson Hole. Jared’s skin suffered and he began stealing my women’s skincare products. We both couldn’t find a single men’s brand that had real results and quality ingredients. That was the moment we were inspired to create a premium men’s brand with real efficacy.
CONTINUED >
ANY PLANS TO EXPAND THE LINE?
We’re always thinking of new ways to expand. We just recently launched The Face SPF, so we now have skin care, sun care, personal care, and hair care across our line.
WHICH PARTS OF THE BUSINESS DO YOU EACH HANDLE?
Jared’s the CEO and I assist him with the inspiration of the brand and where we should evolve towards. I’m very into wellness and beauty and I’m always doing my own research for where we can expand and improve our product line!
BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR ARE THERE OTHER THINGS YOU’VE HAD ON YOUR MIND YOU MIGHT LIKE TO CREATE?
I love the health and wellness space. I hope to help develop products that help people be the healthiest, happiest version of themselves.
YOU RETIRED FROM WRESTLING IN 2006; WHAT’S YOUR BEST MEMORY FROM THAT CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE?
Wow, there are so many! I would say a moment that really stands out is my first tour in Japan. It was a journey into a realm where we were treated like rock stars and celebrated like royalty. The fans there are so incredible.
YOU WERE INDUCTED INTO THE WWE HALL OF FAME MARCH 2023; HOW DID IT FEEL GOING BACK?
It was very nostalgic. In a way, it felt like time stood still. There is nothing better than the energy of the WWE fans and the adrenaline rush of performing in front of a sold-out arena. The best part was being able to share that moment with my husband, my children and my friends and
family who never knew that part of my life. It was surreal. I felt so much love and it’s a moment I will never forget.
YOU STILL LOOK LIKE AN ATHLETE. IS THE SECRET WORKING OUT, NUTRITION OR DO YOU FOCUS EQUALLY ON BOTH?
I focus equally on both fitness and nutrition. I think you have to have a good balance of being conscious of both. Getting my heart rate up and building lean muscle hand in hand with a clean, sustainable diet is what I find works best for me.
QUICK FIRE:
FAVORITE BOOK? The Four Agreements. It’s an oldie but goodie, and I just pulled it back out recently.
FAVORITE WORKOUT? I combine Pilates with strength training and a little boxing for cardio when I can fit it all in.
FAVORITE FORM OF SELF-CARE?
There are so many ways I try to practice self-care. One way is by visiting some of my favorite local Austin spas. A treat is seeing Brooke at The Road for facial acupuncture / facial sculpting. I also love having acupuncture at The Desert Canary, detoxing in an ozone sauna, and getting a massage at Austin DEEP.
I also love all the trails Austin is home to for running, walking, hiking or biking.
LAST SHOW YOU BINGED? Beckham
FAVORITE AUSTIN RESTAURANT? Olamaie
FAVORITE QUOTE? “Don’t wish for it, work for it.”
Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa is a perfect retreat for a day or two away in Hill Country. Park your car, check into one of the resort’s rooms, each with a separate living room and bedroom, porch, electric fireplace and 55-inch flatscreen TV, and partake in activities steps from your door.
The vineyard boasts award-winning Texas-made wines. You can book a package that comes with a variety in your room to take home, but don’t skip on the tasting room where you can do a tasting, including this author’s favorite, Group Therapy. For those who prefer beer, they also make small-batch brews here at the Old 290 Brewery.
The 290 Brewery is a casual steakhouse-style restaurant serving up Texas-inspired cuisine and steaks, or you can just get a charcuterie board and wine if you are looking for something lighter. There’s a stage for music in the restaurant, but also most evenings you can find a band playing or movie screening in the outdoor Pavilion.
In the morning, go for a dip in the pool, play tennis and don’t miss an opportunity to indulge in a spa experience with Gulcin Johnson, who isn’t only the spa director, but maker of the delicious custom scrubs and lotions sold in the spa and used in the services.
There’s not much need to leave the property, but if you choose to venture off, a shuttle can be coordinated to visit other nearby wineries. And, feel free to bring your fur babies, they’ll even get a Happy House swag bag upon arrival.
Learn more at https://www.cartercreek.com/
“The vineyard boasts award-winning Texas-made wines.”
Dog-friendly
Our design aesthetic leans towards the modern, with open-concept floor plans that beautifully integrate indoor and outdoor living.
DOES HIGHLINE PRIMARILY BUILD SPEC HOMES?
Yes, historically, our portfolio has been predominantly spec homes. However, we’re currently broadening our horizons by increasingly focusing on custom home projects. This strategic shift is not just about diversification, it’s about revolutionizing the neighborhoods we work in, particularly Zilker, and making a significant impact on the architectural scene of Austin and beyond. We’re especially excited about a couple of custom projects in the works that promise to be real game-changers. People can follow to see them constructed in real-time @highlinehomesatx.
When people hear ‘spec home,’ they often envision multiple homes sharing the same or similar designs, but our approach diverges from this conventional view. Each of our projects is distinct, imbued with its own identity and personality. Every home we build is treated as a singular piece of art, ensuring that there is nothing ‘cookie-cutter’ about our properties. The term ‘spec’ in our context refers to our comprehensive involvement – from acquiring the lot and developing the plans to completing the construction. The homes are sold as completed projects, without the direct involvement of a homeowner during the development phase.
Project #1: 2900 Cedarview
Our vision with this one was to craft an unparalleled masterpiece that epitomizes elegance while advancing the frontiers of architectural design and innovation. This property will undoubtedly captivate the attention of all who encounter it. The rooftop terrace, reminiscent of the outdoor patio at Austin’s Soho House and akin to an artsy boutique hotel in Tulum, is particularly striking. The inclusion of a spa-style pool, private sauna and sophisticated wine cellar caters to a lifestyle of indulgence and relaxation. This property is
more than a residence; it is a bold statement of modern architectural prowess.
Our second featured property captivates with its striking exterior façade and speaks to those who appreciate a blend of style and elegance. Its true spirit is found in its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. The lower level embodies a perfect fusion of aesthetics and utility. The living spaces extend through a towering 15-foot multislider door, opening to an outdoor haven that flows into an infinity pool and spa. It’s an ideal retreat for both entertaining and relaxation. There’s also a two-car garage, equipped with an EV charger, enhancing the home’s sustainability.
And, the residence’s pinnacle is its exclusive rooftop deck.
What truly distinguishes a Highline Home is our local roots and personalized approach. Our ‘white glove’ service ethos reflects in everything we do, supported by a dedicated, local team that steers clear of corporate bureaucracy. This approach allows us to provide prompt, ‘Johnny-on-the-spot’ service at all stages – before, during, and after the completion of the home.
Absolutely. Our homes often feature stunning pools and rooftop decks, offering unique leisure spaces. We’re also committed to sustainable building practices, ensuring that our luxury homes are as eco-friendly as they are elegant. Our design aesthetic leans towards the modern, with open-concept floor plans that beautifully integrate indoor and outdoor living. This is further accentuated by large windows and doors, which flood our homes with natural light.
Find Highline homes here https://highlinehomes.com/
Accessory Dwelling Units surged in popularity during the pandemic as people sought space for home offices, home gyms, homeschooling, in-laws and more. Rejuve Group co-founder Phil Nicolosi says that while people have returned to life outside of their homes, the demand for ADUs hasn’t tapered off and new local laws in the works that will allow homeowners to have more dwellings on their property promise to increase their popularity.
Rejuve is an Austin-based full-service general contracting company that was founded in 2012 focused on remodels and new constructions. Today, Phil says half of their new construction projects are ADUs, about 15 percent of their business. And, since they’re custom builders, they design around a customer’s needs. He says, “Home offices are probably the most common, but we’re usually adding another function like a workshop, guest room or pool house.” The city of Austin currently restricts ADUs to no more than 1,100 sqft and they can be as simple as 250 sqft. Phil says their average request is for around 750 sqft. As far as pricing, since all of their builds are custom, the prices vary widely. “We’ve built 300 sqft ones that are $1,000/sqft and 1,100 sqft ones that are $350/sqft. It really depends on the property, the use of the ADU, and the client’s budget and design,” he explains, adding, “People do not have an endless budget, nor should they, which is why I take a value approach to every project. Whether the client wants it or not, I include a comparative market analysis of their home to show the client a rough approximation of what their home could be worth after their project.” Learn more about the Rejuve team and their services at https://www.rejuvegroup.com/
Realize the dream of a home office, gym, guest room…
“Now the train has left the station and it’s picking up speed. There are so many amazing things coming.”
Matt and Jackie Mosher first started thinking about Dzinly in 2014. “Matt and I were on a flight home from a family vacation with our kids and talking about business,” Jackie says, “One thing led to another, and I’ll be darned if we didn’t write this out on a little Wet Nap.”
“Business,” to this husband-and-wife duo related to real estate. Jackie’s been in the real estate industry for more than 20 years, including running her own residential appraisal company; Matt launched his landscape architecture firm, Mosher Design Co., as a teenager. Together, the pair of serial entrepreneurs realized Dzinly (dzinly.com) was a need missing in the market.
Dzinly is a virtual technology platform that lets users easily and affordably reimagine a home’s exterior before investing time and money on materials, contractors and DIY projects. Launched in 2021, it’s revolutionizing the way people view home improvement, literally.
Pay a visit to Home Depot on any given weekend and you’ll see shoppers squinting at paint samples, trying to imagine what the colors might look like on their
own home’s exterior. Dzinly removes the guesswork from the process — plus much more. Dzinly lets the user see exactly what their home will look like as well as switch out different colors and materials and add architectural changes all with the input of a professional designer guiding the way. From there they help with hiring a vetted local architect or contractor to carry out the project. The project can be shared with anyone, including friends or your own conventional designer. It’s a one-stop shop in every sense of the word.
Although Dzinly began as a passion project on the side of the couple’s many other endeavors, Jackie says, “Now it’s a monster that needs to be fed every day,” adding, “We truly built this ourselves, with a full-time tech team. We were involved in every storyboard, every icon, every button, it was all blood sweat and tears — there’s not one thing that we did not purposefully build. Now the train has left the station and it’s picking up speed. There are so many amazing things coming,” she says. “I can’t help but pinch myself, because I know what’s coming, and it’s such an exciting time.”
Soupleaf has been warming bellies in their family-owned 7,000 square-foot space with a 2,000-year-old tradition of Canton-style hot pot since last spring. Soupleaf has something for everyone with their seemingly endless all-youcan-eat bars of choose-your-own farm fresh veggies, sauces, noodles and seafood to pair with your selection of premium meats. Every time you go you can make something different. There are tips for making a great hot pot along with cook times on their website, but you can also learn from your own concoctions about what you like and don’t and what works and doesn’t each time you go back.
There’s a full cocktail and mocktail menu and for dessert, soft-serve ice cream cones. In addition to being delicious, it’s a great activity for a date and fun place for the whole family. https://www.soupleafhotpot.com
INSPIRED BY A GRANDMOTHER & NYC-STYLE TAVERNS WITH A TEXAS TWIST
There’s a lot to like at Murray’s Tavern. Travis Tober (who owns Murray’s with Nic Yanes), also owns the Austin dive bar fav, Nickel City. He says Murray’s is an homage to his Grandma Murray, who showed him the art of making the perfect Rob Roy cocktail-now a staple on the Murray’s menu. The unique drink list also features a Frozen Brandy Alexander and a rotating selection of “mini” cocktails which are available individually or as a flight and can be enjoyed at one of Austin’s longest continuous bars at 50 feet.
For food, Murray’s pays respects to the space’s former Gourmands Neighborhood Pub with the Pancetta and Corn Chowder served in a bread bowl as well as serving Oysters Rockefeller, fish & chips, salads, sandwiches and entrees infused with Texas flavors. Find the full menu at https:// murraysaustin.com/ 2316 Webberville Road
Champagne was flowing (as people tested the ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table), bites of food were passed on trays and DJ Andrei gave ‘the room where it happens’ a vibe that kept the party running well past when it was slated to end.
1. The Ladies: Odette Annable, October ‘Tobie’ Gonzalez, Stacy Keibler, Becca Tobin, Gen Padalecki, Mariah de la Mer, Jamie Lynn Sigler. 2. The Statesman owner Craig Ley and his wife Rebecca Ley. 3. The Gentlemen: Zach Martin, Jared Pobre, Dave Annable and Cutter Dykstra. 4. Press for Champagne
THE SUPPER CLUB AND COCKTAIL LOUNGE HOSTED 1. 2. 4.If you only buy three new things for the spring season, make it these three dresses:
1. The Classic Floral Dress Florals are always essential in the Spring. This year 3D florals are elevating the traditional trend.
2. Little White Dress - White is always the new Black in the Spring and Summer so every wardrobe needs a solid LWT.
3 . Peach Fuzz It’s the Pantone Color of the Year and we love it because it’s such a pretty and organic color for the Spring palette.
Creating brighter futures, one student at a time.
Where passionate educators meet ambitious dreamers, from our Consultants to our Team Leads and our entire Cram Crew family.
We’re dedicated to helping students achieve their biggest goals.
ITEM NUMBER 1:
Katie Kime: Austin’s Katie Kime is famous for her prints that started on pajamas but now extends to wallpaper, home décor and more! www.katiekime.com/
ITEM NUMBER 2:
Johnny Was Laurel Canyon Blanket: Their embroidered throw blankets add a pop of color to any room. Find Johnny Was at The Domain or shop online www.johnnywas.com
ITEM NUMBER 3:
Slow North Candles: Soy candles made with 100 percent essential oils from a female-founded Austin company that also makes bath salts, soaps and more. www.slownorth.com
ITEM NUMBER 4:
Round Top Antique Show: One of the largest antique shows in the country that happens twice each year with antiques, art, décor and more. The Spring Show is March 14-30 and worth the drive. www.roundtoptexasantiques.com
ITEM NUMBER 5:
Atown: Austin-themed gifts, games and art and where I finally found my framed framed Austin neighborhoods poster. keepatownweird.com/
This is our Oyster case, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch case, conceived by Rolex in 1926 and patented. A one-of-a-kind feature, which holds within it an intricate world of cogs and minutely crafted parts. Made of some of the most refined alloys, the Oyster case is incomparably resistant to all sorts of external aggressions. Yet no object so hermetic, so immovable, has ever opened the door to so many
possibilities. With its original patented design consisting of a bezel, a case back and a winding crown screwed down against the middle case, it profoundly changed the course of watchmaking history and set new standards of waterproofness for all wristwatches. To this day, the Oyster case continues to protect our watches and our movements within them. It stands as undeniable proof of our constant quest for reliability.