BuckHaven, GA March 2024

When you’re TIMELESS you’re always IN FASHION.

Share the experience, spread the word

Hello friends,

When I was 5-years old we moved to the suburbs from the west side of Detroit. We had an acre with giant willow trees to climb, a rec room for my four teenage brothers and a field next door to explore. With Detroit in tumult at the time, my parents wanted to escape to the safety of the 'burbs and, while I was young, I understood the gravity of the move. Biking was more challenging because there were no sidewalks in our country side neighborhood and the roads were not paved, but I did have my own bedroom with blue shag carpet and a pass-through window between the kitchen and family room, that I would lean through to say goodnight to my parents after high school parties.

My mother was a meticulous housekeeper, so the carpet would always have neat tracks from recent vacuuming and the small kitchen would somehow remain spotless even with six kids rummaging around.

Now that I'm an empty-nester, I too enjoy a tidy home and my husband is as handy as a pocket on a shirt when it comes to housework.

We love hosting rousing family dinners but relish our quiet and clean home once the party is over.

We've lived in nearly 30 homes in our 38 years together, and each has offered something different to our family and lifestyle.

In this month's HOME issue, we celebrate design, color and the all-important location.

Enjoy the stories in these pages. We are thankful to you for allowing us into your home and hope this issue earns a place on your coffee table.

All my best,

March 2024

PUBLISHER

Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com COPY EDITOR

Stacy Conde

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sean O'Keefe, Thomas Smith

Jolie Loren, Catrina Maxwell | CatMax Photography

Corporate Team

city scene

1: Greg Mabry, GM of Bentley Atlanta, twinning with Karyn Slovin of City Lifestyle 2: The reason Strides for Survivors is such a success: the community we all walk for 3: Emilie, Lauren & Samantha Scalise after the 8th Annual Strides for Survivors Walk 4: Scalise Family after a successful Strides for Survivors Walk 5: TurningPoint's Pat Royak, board member, and Lois Rusco, interim executive director 6: Starting the 2024 8th annual walk with the survivors

E.L.CLAY PHOTOGRAPHY

HANNAH JOHNSON

HANNAH JOHNSON

E.L.CLAY PHOTOGRAPHY

E.L.CLAY PHOTOGRAPHY

Destin Charity Wine Auction

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) announces the details of the 19th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction presented by the Jumonville Family, scheduled for April 26-28. All funds raised at the annual auction benefit children in need in Northwest Florida through the Foundation’s 17 partner children’s charities. In 2023, DCWAF donated $3.4 million to charity following one of its most successful auctions to date.  DCWAF.org/tickets.

Registration Open for Creative Retreat

Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat Pray Love and Big Magic) and Atlanta’s local The Working Actor Group (TWAG) are collaborating to host The Big Magic Retreat, a weekend event focused on creativity and wellness, to be held October 4-6 at Camp Coleman in Cleveland. The centerpiece of the retreat will be a 4-hour creativity workshop led by Gilbert.TWAGAtl.com/retreat

business monthly

European-style Cabinetry Now in Peachtree Corners

Miramont Cabinetry has opened a new showroom in Peachtree Corners, redefining luxury in custom European-style cabinetry. Their expertly crafted collections offer an array of exquisite designs and finishes, inviting customers to experience sophistication and elegance in their kitchen and bathroom spaces. Visitors can step into a world of elegance and unparalleled quality, and experience the ultimate in custom cabinetry, with each piece reflecting Miramont's commitment to excellence and each client's unique style. 678.487.8716  MiramontCabinetry.com

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SCAD Serves our Parks

SCAD SERVE Paint Our Parks mural unveiling at Stone Hogan Park. The Parks Department and Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs commissioned SCAD SERVE Paint Our Parks and SCAD alumni artist Nina Robinson to create a larger-than-life basketball court mural to enliven the court and play space at the park in southwest Atlanta. This is the ninth mural completed by SCAD SERVE Paint Our Parks in the city.

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New Bridal at St. Regis

The St. Regis Atlanta is proud to announce the opening of its latest on-site addition, the distinguished Mandi Jackson Bridal Salon. Formerly housed in East Andrews

Square, the couture bridal salon has seamlessly transitioned into the hotel’s retail lobby area. The collaborative business move marries Mandi Jackson’s creative eye and attention to detail with The St. Regis Atlanta’s elevated hospitality, grace and style, further establishing the hotel as the choice destination for wedding celebrations.

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Treat Yourself at Formah Massage

Formah, located in a tidy cottage on East Shadowlawn Ave. has some serious power behind its non-invasive body sculpting services, with more than one million treatments to more than 50,000 clients across nine locations, spanning two countries (USA and Brazil). We like Formah's Lymphatic Drainage Technique, created in Brazil by Formah’s founder and technical director Flávia Santi. Most lose inches instantly while enjoying the massage.  FormahBeauty.com  404.883.3647

BALENCIAGA CRISTÓBAL

MASTER OF TAILORING

Photo by Neal Barr

Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival

The 2024 Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival is set to be a musical extravaganza with +Live+ headlining on March 23, and Barenaked Ladies taking the stage on March 24 at Blackburn Park. Moon Taxi will join the lineup on Saturday, while Crash Test Dummies are on for Sunday. Beyond the music, the festival offers a nostalgic return of favorites, including the Splash Artists’ Market, Kidz Zone, Pet World, Classic Car Show, Food Trucks and 5k.  BrookCherryFest.org

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains on the Georgia-Tennessee-North Carolina line lies the quaint town of Blue Ridge. With over 106,000 acres of National Forest, 300 miles of hiking and biking trails, 100 miles of trout streams, the Toccoa river and Lake Blue Ridge, the outdoor activities are endless. Blue Ridge was ranked by Southern Living Magazine as one of “The South’s Best Mountain Towns of 2020”. The downtown has been referred to as “Aspen of the East” because of the many sample craft breweries and wineries, upscale shops, art galleries and fresh local bites, even including the fanciest of fine dining. Join us in our favorite place! Park at the local Compass office in the heart of town, hop on the Scenic Railway, and explore Blue Ridge with us!

Laura Elleby

678.736.1132 | 404.668.6621

laura.elleby@compass.com

Thomas Echea

954.980.2830 | 404.668.6621

thomas.echea@compass.com

ADVOCATES

AWARENESS

ANNUAL GALA CONTINUES TO RAISE CRITICAL FUNDS FOR ORGANIZATION'S MISSION

ARTICLE BY SEAN O'KEEFE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOLIE LOREN PHOTOGRAPHY

Over the last decade of my work as an event planner in Atlanta, no organization has had a greater impact on my life than the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance. My work has made me realize that everyone has a voice in the prevention of this disease and that we all need to be advocates for awareness and early detection.

The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance (GOCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about ovarian cancer, providing support to survivors and their families, and

City Lifestyle publishers Jennifer Conforti, Lisa Thibault, and Dianne Kaseta

funding the nationally recognized “Bag of Hope” program. Through community outreach, events, and resources, the alliance strives to empower women with knowledge about symptoms and risk factors leading to early detection.

Clearly, ovarian cancer is a women’s disease, but men can play a crucial role in educating people about ovarian cancer by raising awareness and fostering open, thoughtful conversations. Supporting female partners, friends, and family members in seeking regular check-ups and discussing women’s health openly helps break down the social taboos surrounding ovarian cancer. Men can participate in awareness campaigns, share information through social platforms, and encourage a proactive approach to healthcare, ultimately contributing to early detection and improved outcomes for ovarian cancer. Empathy, shared experiences, and a commitment to advocacy create a powerful bond, making community a stronghold for those navigating the complexities of ovarian cancer, promoting awareness, and driving positive change.

I have lost so many friends because their cancer was not detected in the early stages, which would have greatly increased their chance of survival. Losing members of the ovarian cancer community is a poignant and heartbreaking reality. Each departure represents not only an individual, but also a shared journey of resilience and strength. These losses underscore the urgent need for increased awareness, research, and support. Honoring those who have succumbed to this disease becomes a

catalyst for continued advocacy, encouraging a united front against ovarian cancer. Their legacies inspire an unwavering commitment to improving early detection methods and treatment options, fostering hope for a future where losses in the ovarian cancer community become increasingly rare. GAOvarianCancer.org

Gailtricia Fogg and Kim Emory (survivors), laughing it up with Sean O'Keefe

Evelyn Orenbuch and Stuart Napshin celebrating their auction win!

Blues Are Best

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATRINA MAXWELL | CATMAX PHOTOGRAPHY

The breakfast room draperies add grace to the space.

““My work is fueled by a love of collaboration and showcasing my clients’ individuality.”

Catrina Maxwell

Alexis Solomon and Taylor Price bring 25 years of combined interior design experience to their interior design projects. Alexis spent years gaining an in-depth understanding of spatial configuration, technical drawing, the construction process, and functional considerations to become a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) with National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) certification. Taylor owned, operated, grew, and ultimately sold a softgoods workroom that created custom draperies, shades, and pillows for Atlanta designers.

For this project, they worked with their client to envision her future space and select furniture, paint colors and more to create a home that reflects the family’s personal style.

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The ladies' lounge.

SUE GAY COLLINS: What were the client’s goals for the Thorsteinson home in Buckhead?

ALEXIS AND TAYLOR: Our clients wanted to infuse a lot of color into their very neutral home. They also wanted to incorporate unique pieces that reflected their personal, eclectic style. For the family with two young kids, we aimed to make the home very family-friendly and durable.

SGC: What are your favorite aspects of the design?

A & T: The bar in the ladies’ lounge is special. It consists of three floating shelves with intricate metal details. We wanted to create a collected look by using unique pieces made of unique materials.

Also, we love the breakfast room draperies. The window treatments are bold and add texture and color. We intended to make a utilitarian spot feel more special.

SGC: And, Catrina, you’ve been a professional photographer for nearly two decades and your interior home shots are stunning.  Catrina Maxwell: My work is fueled by a love of collaboration and showcasing my clients’ individuality. I enjoy the group process involving designers and homeowners.

AlexisTaylorInteriors.com 770.229.7164

Meet Catrina Maxwell

The founder of CatMax Photography and creator of the CatMax Photography Personal Branding Experience, Catrina is a champion for fellow small businesses and women entrepreneurs. Beyond the lens, she adores providing resources to help others grow their businesses. She’s excited to continue sharing engaging blog posts, interactive lunch-and-learns, and dynamic videos in 2024.

CatMaxPhotography.com

THE FUTURE of School

ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

COLORING OUTSIDE THE LINES AT A NATURE PRESERVE

Nestled on 33 acres of green space at the Blue Heron Nature Preserve, lies what has been called “one of the most innovative and important” learning experiences in the world. Local veteran educators, Andrew and Isa Shahan, were looking for a “school” for their kids that approached learning as a broader set of experiences than what a traditional/ conventional school offers.  “We wanted these experiences to facilitate the development of skills, habits, character traits, relationships, knowledge and expertise necessary for success – and even joy –in the world.”  When they couldn’t find what they wanted, they decided to open Acton Academy Buckhead.

Using Socratic guiding and experiential learning, Acton Academy Buckhead supports young people to embrace challenges, discover their talents and love learning! “It is about changing their relationship with learning.” Having been a principal in traditional public schools, Andrew saw firsthand how young people were forming an adversarial relationship with learning while playing the “school” game. “Acton Buckhead puts the learner and their dreams in the middle and surrounds them with a supportive community with great expectations. Everyone here knows we are surrounded by geniuses!” Andrew shared.

Acton Academy Buckhead utilizes a blend of state-of-the-art learning software, real-world projects, Socratic discussions and a Hero’s Journey dialogue in student-driven, multi-age learning studios. Guides create and facilitate the learning environment, but empower young people to take ownership of their individual learning paths and collective studio governance.

One parent recently shared, “We have seen firsthand how powerful our child feels when they own their ability to learn and are not dependent on another person to ‘teach’ them. They have the self-confidence and tools to learn anything.”  Whether it is algebra, starting a business or planning a Valentine’s Day party- these learners are prepared for anything.

ARTICLE BY BUCKHAVEN CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATRINA MAXWELL | CATMAX PHOTOGRAPHY

Charmer Cottage

A GARDEN HILLS RENOVATION ADDS FUNCTIONALITY AND FABULOUS FEATURES.

This beautiful cottage-style home located in historic Garden Hills underwent an extensive renovation with the help of Bulent Baydar with Harrison Design. The team was able to transform the home into a stunning space, while maintaining its classic elements.

The renovation included a major kitchen transformation by Lisa Brooks Designs, with the addition of a hidden working pantry, which added functionality. The kitchen was also outfitted with smart appliances and an elegant wood hood with polished nickel accents. The quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, trestle tile backsplash, and farm sink added a charming touch to the space and complemented the overall cottage aesthetic of the home. The renovation has breathed new life into the home, making it a showpiece in the historic neighborhood.

“One of my favorite elements of the renovation was how the design doubled the original size of the kitchen to give the space an open and spacious feel to the other areas of the home,” says Lisa Brooks. “And, the working pantry is hidden between the fridge and freezer, which all have the same pantry door design.” Gorgeous!

DETAILS

LisaBrooksDesigns.com

470.239.1200

Kitchen Designer: Lisa Brooks Designs

Architect: Bulent Baydar, Harrison Design

Builder: Sweeney Construction Group

Cabinetry: Custom Cabinetry by Lisa Brooks Designs

Counter Tops: Top Shop Stone, Calacatta Laza Quartz

Appliances: Thermador

Backsplash: Traditions in Tile – Trestle Crackle Tilecolor Stellar

Plumbing Fixtures: PDI Kohler and Rohl

Light Fixtures: Visual Comfort

Paint: Benjamin Moore Classic Gray

A View From Every Room

First impressions are important... and walking into this mountain lodge outside Blue Ridge, it’s the floor-to-ceiling windows that not only flood the interior with light, but also offer stunning views of the surroundings, creating a seamless connection with the outdoors. This three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home on two acres offers an all-paved proximity to the nearby lake and town, providing convenient access to the recreational activities and local amenities we know and love. Additionally, walking distance to hiking and biking trails adds to the appeal, especially for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the north Georgia mountains.

Inside, the large chef’s kitchen island, loads of granite counter space, and stainless appliances offer a home base for preparing family meals. “The lighting fixtures, such as the bedroom and bathroom wall sconces, add a touch of elegance and functionality, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout the home,” says Realtor Laura Elleby. “The two-car

attached garage is a true commodity in the area!” She says this home is an ideal fit for a full-time residence, as well as for investors looking for a property with strong rental potential.

DETAILS

539 Deer Crest Road, Blue Ridge

Laura Elleby

678.736.1132

LauraElleby.com

Laura is a renowned real estate expert specializing in the North Georgia region. With extensive experience in the vibrant real estate markets of Blue Ridge, Morganton, Mineral Bluff, and surrounding areas, Laura and her team offer unparalleled expertise and deep local knowledge. Whether you’re exploring the serene beauty of Blue Ridge homes for sale, seeking to sell your cherished Morganton property, or curious about the hidden gems in Mineral Bluff, Laura’s proven track record of success ensures a smooth and rewarding experience.

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

“

“Inside, the large chef’s kitchen island, loads of granite counter space, and stainless appliances offer a home base for preparing family meals.”

TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE INTO A

ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

New York Times Best Selling Author and Netflix Producer, Dan Buettner, Inspires a Better Life Based on Research from the World’s Healthiest Cultures.

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!

Follow @DanBuettner and @BlueZones for full insights and visit BlueZones.com to shop exclusive products.

MARCH 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 4TH

Author Talk

Atlanta HIstory Center

Elizabeth B. White & Joanna Sliwa, authors of The Counterfeit Countess: The Jewish Woman Who Rescued Thousands of Poles During the Holocaust will speak about the astonishing story of Dr. Josephine Janina Mehlberg—a Jewish mathematician who saved thousands of lives in Nazi-occupied Poland by masquerading as a Polish aristocrat—drawing on Mehlberg’s unpublished memoir.  AtlantaHistoryCenter.com

MARCH 6TH

Toddler Storytime

Atlanta History Center | 10:00 AM Sun’s out, bugs out! Spring is here, which means the plants are coming to life—and so are the bugs. Join us as we explore the tiny creatures in our gardens, creep and crawl through some tasty snacks, and make a six-legged craft. This event offers two separate reading times at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.

MARCH 9TH

Atlanta Science Festival  Throughout Atlanta

“I couldn’t have been happier with my decision to give Absolute Image Consulting a try, it has been by far my favorite place I’ve had over all my years. I find their hair systems to be top notch, the most up to date on the market, as are all the hair products that they offer. I can’t say enough good things about the company and staff.” - Client Testimonial

“My experience at Absolute Image completely changed my life. After suffering from hair loss since college, I’d also lost most of my self esteem and confidence along the way. The quality is truly astounding. They gave me my life back. They have me myself back. My only regret is not choosing this sooner and saving myself all those rough mornings in the mirror. If you’re considering hair replacement - do it.” - Client Testimonial

The Atlanta Science Festival is an annual celebration of the world-class learning and STEM career opportunities in metro Atlanta, featuring 150 engaging events for curious kids and adults at venues all across the region. Through March 23.   AtlantaScienceFestival.org

MARCH 10TH

2024 Hunger Walk/Run

Home Depot Backyard | 12:00 PM

The Atlanta Community Food Bank's Hunger Walk/Run is back for its 40th year! If you need a team, reach out to  ACFB.org. You can help them reach their team fundraising goal and even come out and walk/run either in person or virtually.

MARCH 16TH

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Peachtree Street | 1:30 PM

Atlanta’s St. Patrick’s parade – started by the city’s Hibernian Benevolent Society (a Catholic and Protestant fraternal organization) – dates back to 1858, making it one of the country’s oldest. For more information visit AtlantaStPats.com

MARCH 17TH

The Luck of the Irish Atlanta Symphony Hall  | 1:30 PM

Explore the whimsical world of Yeats' Fairy Tales with the mischievous Irish pipers, fairies, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. This celebration of Irish storytelling will share some enchanting tales through music. Come celebrate with the whole family this St. Patrick's Day.  ASO.org

Turning Point Celebrates 20 years of Support

ARTICLE BY THOMAS SMITH

The 23rd annual Pink Affair, the signature annual gala benefiting TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation, will take place on Saturday, March 16. For the third consecutive year, it will take place at the Intercontinental Buckhead Atlanta.

The Pink Affair is a memorable evening, featuring a seated dinner, live and silent auctions, an open bar with beer and wine, a special “Golden Ticket” drawing, live music, and dancing. Veteran charity auctioneer Dean Crownover and Fulton County Commissioner Dana Barrett will be back this year in their respective roles overseeing the live and silent auctions and evening program.

This year’s event is being chaired by TurningPoint board member Karen Touchstone with support from Kathy Smith, TurningPoint’s board vice chair, the Pink Affair’s co-founder, and longtime event manager.

Marking its 20th anniversary in 2024, TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation is a community-based healthcare organization that

provides essential survivorship services to breast cancer patients in their journeys to feeling better faster. Services include physical therapy, massage therapy, emotional support, nutritional counseling, exercise classes, and educational programs.

TurningPoint manages two clinics in Sandy Springs and downtown Atlanta and also provides its services virtually through a comprehensive telerehabilitation program. Since its opening two decades ago, there have been more than 40,000 patient visits.

No breast cancer patient, regardless of their background, including men, is turned away due to an inability to provide adequate insurance or financial resources. Proceeds from the Pink Affair help fund TurningPoint’s financial assistance program.

MyTurningPoint.org 770.360.9271