Carmel, IN March 2024

Home & Design Edition

Home Is Where Memorable Stories Take Root

I'm so enthused to share our Home issue with you this month. I chose to make Carmel my home almost three years ago after growing up and spending my life in Oklahoma. That move continues to be a lesson in all the ways that “home” comes into play in my life. Be it the city where I live, the physical dwelling that gives me shelter or the many people where I feel I can be my most authentic self, home can be found in so many different forms. I'm so grateful to call Carmel my home and for the many people and businesses that make Carmel so special.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that's valued in our community, and we strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

Lastly, a huge thanks to the fellow business experts who joined our recent Health and Wellness Expo cohosted by CoHatch Carmel (see pictures on pages 10-12): Pure Barre, HerMD, Endurance Mental Health & Wellness, Innate Way Wellness, Urban Meditation, FlexWerk, Nourish Skin Care & Health Coaching, Prana Chiropractic, Insomnia Mom, Schulke Chiropractic & Wellness Solutions, Leah GiaQuinta Coaching, Camp Bow Wow and Magnolia Events. So many valuable tips, services and products were shared. I also appreciate the many members of the community who attended the event. We're grateful for your support.

Happy March!

ANDREA KULSRUD, PUBLISHER @CARMEL.CITY.LIFESTYLE

March 2024

Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

Hockett

Corporate Team

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: Carmel City Lifestyle Publisher Andrea Kulsrud and COhatch Carmel recently hosted a well-attended Health and Wellness Expo that showcased a variety of beneficial services from a dozen related vendors plus tips, giveaways, drinks, snacks and great opportunities to connect with like-minded attendees.

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8-14: Carmel City Lifestyle Publisher Andrea Kulsrud and COhatch Carmel recently hosted a well-attended Health and Wellness Expo that showcased a variety of beneficial services from a dozen related vendors plus tips, giveaways, drinks, snacks and great opportunities to connect with like-minded attendees. Photography by Pooja Garg

city scene

15: Carmel City Lifestyle Publisher Andrea Kulsrud and COhatch Carmel recently hosted a well-attended Health and Wellness Expo that showcased a variety of beneficial services from a dozen related vendors plus tips, giveaways, drinks, snacks and great opportunities to connect with like-minded attendees. 16: Welcome to Carmel’s newest police officers: Austin Guerretaz, Alex Grant and Sheldon Robinson. 17: K9 Officer Macy provides comfort to officers, community outreach support and assistance in crisis negotiations. 18: OneZone Chamber of Commerce next Eggs & Issues March 15 ‘Statehouse Edition’ at Bridgewater Club. 19: Macy was proudly produced by Meadow Park Labradors and officially sworn into duty for Carmel. 20: Macy trained for many months with the Ultimate Canine team in preparation for this job. 21: The Carmel Police Department recently welcomed Macy as a full-time therapy dog K9.

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business monthly

Total Home Handymen Services Provided Promptly And Professionally

As spring approaches, many homeowners revisit their to-do lists for home maintenance. Michael Mack, owner of Total Home And Tech, says his crew offers diverse handyman services, including remodeling projects, major renovations and drywall repairs or installations. He adds that his team also has experience in installing security systems. They are known by customers for being polite, on time and proficient. To discuss projects with Michael, call 260.274.5001, email him at Mike.m@totalhomeandtech.com or visit TotalHomeAndTech.com

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Luxury, Affordable Furniture To Transform Outdoor Living Spaces

After Jesse and Kelly Riley completed their own outdoor living and pool project in 2020, they realized how important furniture is to achieving final touches and how challenging it can be to secure desired selections. So, they leveraged Kelly's former experience with private label products and importing to launch their own business: Axis Homes. Now they assist clients with fully customized designs to fit various spaces, styles and budgets. For their creative ideas, visit Axis-Home.com

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Make Big Splash With A New Swimming Pool

Planning a pool during springtime means homeowners also have more time to decorate patio areas for final features and results. Matthew Harms, owner/general manager of Modish Pools, LLC, says his team works hand in hand with homeowners, business owners and municipalities to install high-quality gunite and vinyl liner pools of every shape and size. Matthew says it's never too early to discuss designs and have a no-obligation, on-site consultation. He can be reached at 317.800.8758.

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Photography by Modish Pools

Photography by Emily Kooi Photography

The Full 360

ONE

ARTICLE

Although the sign above the former Evan Lurie Art Gallery now reads “Circle Real Estate,” walking inside reveals a curated homage to the building’s history. Sculptures ring the room, and the wide walls are filled with paintings.

It’s more than just office décor; Circle Real Estate’s agents use the art to stage homes. If the buyer likes a piece, they can purchase it and support a local artist. “When I purchased the space for our real estate office, I wanted to preserve the integrity of the gallery,” explains Jason O’Neil, founder/owner of Circle. “But we also use it to bring the community and artists together.”

This is typical of Jason, who looks at situations through a lens of innovation and desire to twist them into something impactful and fresh.

A Carmel native, Jason studied entrepreneurship at Ball State. After earning his master’s degree in communication management, he says he landed a coveted position at AT&T in Tampa. “It was a great job, and I hated it,” he admits. “I had no local clients, and no connections.”

Inspired by his father, who spent 40 years in real estate, Jason says he spent months working outside of his fulltime role to get his real estate license and build a client base. Although he was voted the best realtor in Tampa, he and his wife moved home to Carmel to raise their children in the Midwest.

BY HEATHER HUNTER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN CLARK

HOW

LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY PUTS PEOPLE FIRST

Jason O’Neil, founder/owner, Circle Real Estate

After many successful years with established real estate companies, Jason says his entrepreneurial drive led him to establish Circle Real Estate in 2021. Since then, he’s seen unpredictability in the housing market, but states the firm stays on top of new knowledge, sharing insight for both buyers and sellers via their C ircle-Re.com blog.

“We start by asking our clients a lot of questions. The more conversations we can have upfront, the smoother things go, especially in a rapidly moving market like the one we’re in now,” Jason explains.

The first thing Jason recommends for those thinking of buying and selling a home is to analyze personal finances. “It has to be a 360-degree look,” he warns. “Buying or selling is about so much more than interest rates.”

Buyers also should consider how their new home will suit their dream lifestyle. “Markets ebb and flow, but the past has always been the best time to buy. In the long run, it’s usually never a bad decision,” he points out. "I don’t think there’s ever a bad time to start living life on your terms when it comes to your home.”

Whether buyer or seller, Jason says each Circle client receives a tailored experience built around what’s most important to them. The agents incorporate creative personal touches, like a one-page brokerage agreement for small children. Its provisions include keeping their rooms clean and listening to their parents. “It helps them feel included and gives them some agency while they’re going through a big life change,” Jason explains.

“Selling or buying a house isn’t always happy,” he adds. “Sometimes it’s about loss. And in all situations, we value helping people get what they want, whether it’s a specific home, or peace of mind. Hands down, that’s the best part of this job.”

CONTINUED >

“Circle Real Estate has nothing to do with roundabouts, but it signifies trust, inclusion and a 360-degree approach to our agents’ work.”

“People are dealing with their real estate agent when there’s a lot going on in their lives. In those situations, it’s about who, not how, and we want to be the who that brings them peace of mind.”

Jason prioritizes his agents by looking for ways to optimize their physical, mental, professional and financial health. It’s one way he personally commits to Circle’s core values:  Focus on Who, Deliver Clarity, Better Best, Positively Distinct, Thoughtful Bias for Action, and Finding the Win.

“Our core values aren’t just words on a wall. We hire and fire by them. They’re our non-negotiables,” he says. “They've always been reflective, not projective.”

One of Jason's biggest goals for 2024 is to be a “great contributor” to the Arts and Design District. The Circle staff already has been involved in events such as Small Business Saturday, Arts in Autumn and the Caffeine Trail. He adds, "We plan to take part in even more this year."

Circle’s commitment to every individual they can serve will remain front and center, Jason promises. “We’re bespoke, and very local. We’re very selective about our agents, and we focus completely on central Indiana. That helps us deliver a better experience with knowledge, professionalism and compassion.”

317.643.9911

Circle-Re.com

Heating

Indianapolis

Service

AC

We

Sleek And Stylish

Top Home-Painting Trends For 2024

ARTICLE BY HEATHER HUNTER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN CLARK

Eric Russell, owner, Russell Painting Company

Itching to update your home this year? Before pulling out hammers or selling the furniture, consider reinvigorating the space with a new coat of paint. Carmel City Lifestyle asked Eric Russell of Russell Painting Company about the paint trends to expect in 2024, as well as some creative ways to incorporate them in homes.

In exterior paint jobs, the earth tones of the 1990s and aughts are steadily shifting to a clean, high-contrast aesthetic. “We’re seeing a lot of black and white, or gray and white,” Eric says. “The look of a white house with black or gray trim will probably continue to be very popular this year.”

When it comes to accenting trim, don’t be afraid to think outside the box, Eric suggests: “If you use the right combination, especially with black and white, it can frame the house in a really eye-catching way.”

Window trim, doors and garage doors are popular accent pieces, but gutters and downspouts also can be painted for fresh, sleek looks.

Painted brick is another trend on the rise. While some homeowners seeking the neutral aesthetic leave their brick its traditional red for a striking contrast, others choose to paint it to match the siding. Worried about structural stability? Fear not, according to Eric; new advances in mineral-based paints preserve, even protect, brick rather than eroding it over time.

Interior paint trends currently follow their exterior counterparts, with popular wall colors spanning a wide range from bright white to smoky gray. Lovers of earth tones need not sacrifice their taste for the trend, though. “There’s more variation to gray than people think,” Eric points out. “You can go with a cool, crisp gray, or a gray with brown tones if you like a warmer look.”

Accent walls, while still present, are less commonly seen than in previous years. In newer homes, which follow open-concept floor plans, homeowners may choose to stick with one paint color for a clean look or use different monochromatic shades to separate living spaces.

CONTINUED >

“I ADVOCATE FOR USINGHIGHER-EN PRODUC TS. THEY PROTECT YOUR HOME A ND HELP THECOLOR LAST.”

Eric recommends using a bright white or pale gray in smaller rooms to open the space, while larger rooms usually can handle darker colors. Regardless of the color of the walls, a white ceiling will add height to any room. With the advent of more durable water-based paints to replace toxic oil-based ones, matte is the default finish.

Unlike clothing trends, which last a few years at most, Eric says paint trends experience a much longer cycle before becoming outdated. Expect interior paint trends to last for at least three to five years, while exterior paint trends typically stick around for a decade or more. This means that homeowners shouldn’t be afraid to make large-scale changes to their homes, even if they’re worried about long-term curb appeal.

“Once a trend hits, especially on the exterior, it lasts for a long time,” Eric advises. “We shouldn't see a lot of change for the next several years.”

Looking to cut costs? Don’t sacrifice paint quality. The longevity of good paint, Eric shares, will keep homes protected and flawless until the next color change. “The preparation is also very important, whether you’re talking about interior or exterior work,” he warns. “That’s one area where a professional can really help with the best cleaning and priming to make the job last.”

From heading up a full-service residential and commercial painting company, Eric is familiar with the ins and outs of a great paint job. An Indiana native, he has worked in painting since his graduation from Indiana University Bloomington. After a brief time in Pittsburgh, he moved back to Indiana in 1993 and opened a satellite office in Carmel for his father’s painting company. His first house was in Carmel, which allowed him to establish roots in the area that helped the business thrive.

“Carmel is also the perfect central location to be able to get on any road to travel anywhere else in Indiana,” he points out. “It helps me work more easily in a lot of locations in Central Indiana, although I concentrate most of my work here at home.”

Eric has four children, with the two youngest both part of the Carmel Swim Club. Through their involvement, and his work, he says he's gained plenty of local friends over the years. Still, he's always looking for new connections.

317.339.4737

RussellPaintingCompany.com

ARTICLE BY EMMA FITZGERALD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN CLARK

WASHING AWAY WINTER

As spring arrives, it's time to open up blinds and soak in the coveted sunshine lacking during Midwest winters. Spring cleaning is just around the corner, and the team at Northside Window and Gutter Cleaning indicates they are eager to help homeowners and business managers welcome the start of a new season.

to volunteer with a variety of veteran organizations as time allows."

For Gene, he proclaims the most rewarding part of owning a business is knowing he can provide a service for someone who needs it and feeling that appreciation from his clients. He shares that he enjoys being a leader and mentor to his team, and works hard to

“WINDOWS ARE LENSES INTO HOUSES, THEY SET THE TONE OF HOMES.”

Northside Windows is owned and operated by a local veteran, Gene Hairston. After serving as a military police officer in Alaska, Gene says he moved to Indiana to be with his family. Upon moving to the area, Gene worked for the Marion County Sheriff's Department for 10 years and then in auto sales where he says he made plenty of connections and friends.

"That's how I met Scott, the original owner of Northside Window and Gutter Cleaning," Gene recalls.

The two were friends when Scott started the business back in 2006. Gene officially took over five years ago.

"Scott built the boat, I've just kept the sails up and the water out."

As a veteran, Gene says he believes there is little that he learned during his time in the military that cannot be applied to running a business. Specifically, discipline and work ethic. He adds, "I'm passionate about working with disabled veterans, as this hits close to home. And I jump at any opportunity

teach them the teamwork and cohesion he learned in the military. "I'm proud to say I would never ask my crew to do something I wouldn't do personally, and I believe that if you put the customer before profits, profits will follow."

While as a bonded and insured business, Northside Window and Gutter Cleaning offers a large catalog of services, Gene's spring cleaning essential recommendations are:

• Gutter Maintenance: Gutters are essential in helping channel water away from the foundation of homes and preventing water damage.

• Window Cleaning: Windows are the lenses into houses; they set the tone of homes. Clean windows allow the sun to flow freely into homes.

• Soft-Washing: Soft-washing uses a lower pressure but higher volume of water than pressure washing to remove algae and dirt from the outside of homes and buildings. "This is my favorite service offered," Gene shares.

CONTINUED >

The Northside Window and Gutter Cleaning crew serves all of Marion County, Hamilton County and parts of Hancock and Madison County. Boasting 13,000-plus residential and commercial clients, this local business has a fleet of 12 vehicles and two locations, with their main operating facility in Noblesville. The staff also includes a full-time customer service team.

"Customers can call, email or chat with us online at just about any time of day and receive a timely response," assures Gene.

Complimentary quotes also can be requested.

317.966.0212

WindowGutterCleaning.com

Gene operates a bonded and insured business.

As military veteran, Gene believes in discipline and work ethic.

ARTICLE BY HILLARIE FINLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN CLARK

Redefining Inclusive Living

NORTH END APARTMENTS/VILLAGE OF MERICI: ACCESSIBLE SANCTUARY FOR ALL

Socializing Reinvented

Residents can enjoy coffee and camaraderie at Indie Coffee Roasters and Le Petit Gauteau Bakery, and use common areas around the complex. Hannah Harless, the complex’s community and technology support coordinator, plans events and encourages residents to form lasting friendships.

North End Carmel

Village of Merici and North End Carmel united to create a future of accessible living for people with disabilities. Residents are empowered by the advanced features and inclusive amenities catering to various needs.

Effortless Accessibility

Elevators in each building meet residents’ mobility needs, while the ButterflyMX entry system enables seamless and secure access for residents, promoting independence and easy navigation.

Friendly Community

Jason Tieneker is a resident who admits he loves to make people feel welcome.

As a new neighbor moved in, Jason graciously lent a hand and donated his extra couch. VillageOfMerici.org

Transformative Tech Integration

Integrating the Amazon Echo Show allows residents to look up recipes, communicate with their families, and get an enhanced living experience with voice-activated assistance for daily tasks.

Handmade Soap

Add a spa-like feel to your home with this refreshing soap recipe that's simple to make at home.

ARTICLE BY ANGI HOCKETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

lavender honey lemon soap

ingredients

• 2 lb. goat’s milk melt-and-pour soap

• 1 lemon rind, zested

• 3 tablespoons of dried lavender buds

• 2 tablespoons of honey

• 15 drops of lavender essential oil

• 6 drops of lemon essential oil

• jar or bowl for melting soap base

• Silicone mold

directions

Chop soap into smaller pieces. It will melt faster this way. Place in bowl and microwave (or double boil). Be careful to watch soap and not let it burn.  If you are using microwave, heat in 30 second increments, stirring frequently. Once soap is melted add your essential oils first. Once essential oils have been added and mixed thoroughly, add the lavender buds, lemon zest and honey. Have your mold ready to go, on a flat, even surface. You’ll want to move quickly before the soap cools too much. Mix everything thoroughly again, and pour mixture into mold. Let the soap cool for 2-3 hours until bars are completely solid. Wrap or package however you like.

Recipe from Sisoo.com

MARCH 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 4TH, 11TH, 18TH, 25TH

Creative Pet Portraits

Monon Community Center East, Art Studio | 7:00 PM

In this class for youths 6 years and older, artists will create pet portraits in different styles and art mediums each week. Each 45-minute class will be taught by fine art instructor and passionate artist Zachariah Lowe. Fee is $75 for each participant. For more information, email info@carmelclayparks.com or to register, call 317.848.7275.

MARCH 9TH-10TH

Bruce Hornsby Performance

The Palladium At The Center For The Performing Arts | 7:00 PM

Eclectic singer-songwriter and pianist Bruce Hornsby rose to fame with his Grammy-winning debut album The Way It Is. He has released more than 20 albums as a leader, toured with the Grateful Dead, and appeared on 100-plus records from artists including Don Henley, Stevie Nicks, Bonnie Raitt, Sting and Willie Nelson. He's touring with New York-based classical-pop ensemble music.

MARCH 10TH

Imagination Movers Concert

The Tarkington At The Center For The Performing Arts | 1:00 PM

Known for original songs and Emmy Award-winning Disney television show, the Imagination Movers promise a high-energy, interactive concert experience that captivates audiences of all ages. Whether singing about playing catch, brainstorming or making music using buckets and cans, the group delivers witty lyrics and an eclectic pop sensibility with creativity and movement. Tickets start at $25 each: TheCenterPresents.org/Tickets-Events

MARCH 21ST

Springtime In Paris Cooking Class

A Cut Above | 6:00 PM

In this hands-on cooking class with Chef Amy von Eiff, attendees will learn French cooking skills and techniques needed to create classic dishes from France. The event will cover 2 hours of professional culinary instruction, a three-course, chef-prepared meal and a takehome recipe packet. Organizers indicate groups are welcome. Reservations are available on Eventbrite.com

MARCH 23RD

Indiana Eid Exhibition

502 East Event Centre | 11:00 AM

Get ready to be dazzled with the latest trends in clothes and jewelry through an event hosted by ZN Fashions until 6 p.m. From stunning traditional outfits to elegant modern designs, this exhibition is said to offer pieces for the perfect ensemble to celebrate Eid in style. For exhibition information, call at 630.776.9407 or send an email to israr@znfashions.com.

MARCH 28TH

Driving Miss Daisy Classic Movie

Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre | 7:00 PM

Driving Miss Daisy is a film about a warm-hearted, humorous and unlikely relationship. The movie won the 1988 Pulitzer Prize and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Off-Broadway Play. It also held long-running Off-Broadway success and is an Academy Award-winning film. The movie is set in the Deep South, the time 1948, just prior to the civil rights movement.

Specializing in marble, granite, and quartzite. We travel to the world’s best locations where natural stone is sourced and personally selected for our expansive inventory of exotic natural stones. Open to the public, our team welcomes you in to experience our showroom and warehouse.