Step into David Adams Fine Jewelry and enjoy a laid-back, no-pressure shopping experience where elegance meets ease. Mention this ad to unlock exclusive Dog Days of Summer deals you won’t find anywhere else—because just like our favorite furry friend, we believe in keeping things relaxed, fun, and full of sparkle.
BEST MARGARITAS
NORTH OF THE BORDER
From Block Street to the Backwoods, Explore
Dear Fayetteville,
Welcome to the Dog Days of Summer! July is for exploring—both near and far—and this month’s Explore Issue is your guide to doing just that. Whether you’re uncovering new spots in town or revisiting old favorites, there’s always something to discover right here at home. Our Hot Days, Cool Spots has ideas to help you beat the heat while staying local in Northwest Arkansas. If your summer plans involve venturing beyond city limits, check out our feature on Uncle Sam’s Safari Outfitters and their Ozark Expeditions—a trusted expert for getting off the grid and into the Ozark wilderness.
Exploration also means appreciating what makes our city unique. Flip through for a deeper dive into Block Street Records, a Fayetteville staple spinning vinyl gold and keeping the beat on Block St. On the newer end of the spectrum get to know one of the city’s freshest additions, The Root Coworking—a spot to stay focused and inspired during the summer slowdown. And if your slowdown leads to any type of home improvements and summer cleaning, make sure to get familiar with Closets by Design and the team that can help you reinvent your closet spaces.
As someone who’s lucky enough to travel often (thanks to my adventurous wife), I’ve learned that the heart of exploring on any trip is the food—and that’s no different here in Fayetteville. This month, we spotlight the annual Fayetteville Restaurant Week and some of the standout eateries that keep our local dining scene as flavorful as ever.
Here’s to exploring, summertime tunes, good eats, and the joy of staying close or adventuring far away this July.
See you out there,
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Gavin Magee | gavin.magee@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Sydney Sullivan | sydney.sullivan@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Clay Ridgeway | clay.ridgeway@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kate Gryder | kategryder@outlook.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Maria Lanning, Sydney Johnson, Hailey Smith, Will Newton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Maria Lanning, Andrea Pruitt, Meredith Mashburn
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
From right to left: Larry Spiller, husband of owner; Ginger Spiller, owner; Amy Hargis, phlebotomy and clinical support; Laura Fochtman, phlebotomy and clinical support
c e l e b r a t i n g
60 years
serving northwest arkansas
est. 1965
h a v i n g y o u r h o t g i r l s u m m e r ?
w e ’ r e
h a v i n g o u r
n o s h a v e
s u m m e r .
25% off LASER HAIR REMOVAL
scene
1: Brand New Café Lavande 3: Arsagas Mill District brunch! 4: Mount Sequoyah Renovation Deck is Complete 5: Summer Nights at City Park 6: Groundbreaking ceremony for SSI of NWA Construction’s project at Bryce Davis Park in Fayetteville 7: Exploring the Razorback Greenway
@CITYPARKFAYETTEVILLE
@CAFELAVANDENWA
Unlock Your Skin’s True Potential with Premier Aesthetics’ newest offering: Sofwave. Experience the future of skin rejuvenation with this cutting-edge technology designed to achieve firmer skin with minimal discomfort.
WHY CHOOSE SOFWAVE?
• Non-invasive: No needles, no downtime.
• Effective: Clinically proven results.
• Comfortable: Gentle treatment with minimal discomfort.
beem® Light Sauna Now Offers Advanced Light
ADVANCED LIGHT IS HERE! beem®
Fayetteville is one of the first studios in the country offering primary color light therapies for whole-body benefits! Green Light influences cells through elevated tissue temperature, helping to relieve minor muscle and joint pain, stiffness, and arthritis pain, as well as muscle spasms. Blue light also plays a role in relieving heightened pain sensitivity and supporting faster recovery.
Taqueria Lucha is now open!
¡PÁSELE! Taqueria Lucha is now open, serving authentic street tacos on Dickson Street! Check them out.
ETERNA, by Romance Diamond Co.
Romance Diamond Co. offers ETERNA, a white-glove concierge service that preserves, elevates, and transforms meaningful jewelry pieces. From restoring heirlooms to designing custom creations or providing expert evaluations, ETERNA delivers personalized solutions for every collection.
Photography by @beem.fayetteville.ar
Photography by @taquerialucha
Photography by Romance Diamond Co.
UNCLE SAM’S SAFARI OUTFITTERS IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION TO HELP YOU PREPARE FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE.
Exploring the Ozarks
ARTICLE BY WILL NEWTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN
Justin Macedo, Owner of Uncle Sam’s Safari Outfitters
Northwest Arkansas has just about everything you can think of, so it’s clear why so many people are choosing to call it home. Around every corner is something to do, from beloved coffee shops to bustling nightlife scenes to a variety of small businesses to shop with. The core of Northwest Arkansas’ charm, however, isn’t confined to four walls – it’s outside! Northwest Arkansas is lucky enough to call itself a part of the Ozark National Forest, 1.2 million acres of trees, lakes, trails, rock climbing, mountains and beautiful scenery. No matter the time of year, there is always something to do in the Ozarks.
When exploring the natural beauty of the Ozarks in Northwest Arkansas, no matter how small the exhibition, it’s always smart to be well-prepared for anything. Fayetteville City Lifestyle sat down with Justin Macedo, owner of Uncle Sam’s Safari Outfitters, an outdoor specialty retail shop that’s called Fayetteville home for 43 years, to learn more about the Ozarks and how to take advantage of its offerings safely.
THIS ISSUE IS ALL ABOUT GETTING OUTDOORS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS SPECIAL ABOUT THE OZARKS?
There’s a little bit of everything. You’ve got mountains, rivers, running trails, rock walls, waterfalls, lakes, biking trails and enough public land to last a lifetime. You can find challenging things, like whitewater kayaking, rock climbing or trail running in the mountains or have a chill river float, stroll by a lake or a scenic hike in the hills. It’s easy to find a spot for these activities, and you can do it year round, it’s not limited by season. Besides the activities and beautiful scenery, the people and community in the Ozarks really set the region apart. Whether it’s someone letting you in on some climbing beta, a cool waterfall hike or the best smallmouth lure on the Kings, the people you encounter make me proud to call this place home.
Justin Macedo
FOR THOSE WHO MIGHT BE ON THE FENCE ABOUT WANTING TO BECOME AN OUTDOOR EXPLORER THIS SUMMER, WHAT CAN YOU SAY THAT MIGHT TIP THEM OVER THE EDGE?
In Arkansas, it’s hot. Thankfully, we have so many lakes, creeks and rivers in the state. It’s really hard to beat a hot summer day when it’s 90 degrees out and the creek water is 70 degrees. There are plenty of close and easily accessible areas to hang out. For me, exploring the outdoors brings a sense of accomplishment, especially when you’re in a rut. You can decompress and take a breath, but feel productive and proud of finding a place that is off the beaten path.
DO YOU HAVE ANY LOCATION RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FIRST-TIME OZARK EXPLORERS?
Devil’s Den is the perfect start for the Ozarks, it’s got everything, and it’s really accessible. There are also several small places around here, like Lincoln Lake or Wilson Lake. They’re small and not very intimidating. If you’re wanting to get out, Mount Sequoyah feels like the middle of nowhere, but you’re in the middle of Fayetteville! Those are awesome, beginner-level excursions that you don’t really have to commit to.
AS AMAZING AS THE OUTDOORS ARE, IT CAN BE DANGEROUS IF YOU’RE NOT PREPARED. WHAT ARE SOME MUST-HAVE ITEMS OF GEAR THAT UNCLE SAM’S RECOMMENDS TO ENSURE A SAFE EXCURSION?
The big thing is not pushing yourself more than you are comfortable with. Most of the trouble people find themselves in is because they are doing things they know that they shouldn’t. Don’t push your luck with skill, and make sure you are going with someone else with experience if it is your first time doing something.
With that being said, most issues are going to be comfort-based. So, when you’re going out, make sure you are wearing sun-protective clothing or else you will be sunburned. Ticks can make you really sick in Arkansas, so make sure that you’ve got bug repellent. I personally recommend repellent with picaridin. As for gear, make sure that you have a basic first-aid kit and know how to use it. Also, make sure that you have a map and a compass – all of which you can find here at Uncle Sam’s!
WHAT’S ONE THING YOU MAKE SURE THAT YOU NEVER FORGET ON AN EXCURSION, NO MATTER HOW SHORT?
I always make sure that I have some way of getting water. In the summer, you can easily run into dehydration or heat stroke. Water filters are cheap and
weightless, and carrying them with you can help combat that.
DO YOU HAVE ANY FINAL TIPS FOR THOSE PREPARING TO EXPLORE THE OZARKS THIS SUMMER, REGARDLESS OF SKILL LEVEL?
Have fun! Fayetteville is blessed to have a lot of public land. There are so many places that aren’t super popular that are still worth exploring, and using a private-public land map can help you find them. It can be really fun to get off the trail, as long as you are prepared.
If the Ozark Mountains are calling your name this summer, stop by Uncle Sam’s Safari Outfitters at 1494 N College Avenue, where an employee can help you prepare for your next adventure, or online at unclesamsgear.com .
WHERE LUXURY MEETS FITNESS
The next level of wellness awaits you.
Introducing the newest exclusive fitness studio to grace Northwest Arkansas. Nestled in the heart of Fayetteville, Chemical Fitness offers more than just a workout – it’s a destination for those who value quality, luxury, and an exceptional fitness experience.
Elevate your fitness routine through superior cardio and strength classes, personal training and nutrition coaching designed to push your limits. From spa-inspired bathrooms to open gym access, every detail has been crafted to ensure your time here is as rewarding as your results.
Join an elite community of individuals who share your passion for fitness and commitment to excellence. With memberships for those who appreciate the finer things in life, Chemical Fitness offers a luxurious workout environment for both body and mind.
Location: 1010 E Rolling Hills St, Fayetteville, AR Hours: M–F: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Contact: Call 479-408-5655 or email concierge@chemicalfitness.com to schedule a tour today.
With over 20 years of real estate experience in Northwest Arkansas, Christine Cook offers personalized, professional, and principled service. As a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Club and consistently ranked among the Top 100 Real Estate Professionals in the NWA Business Journal, she is dedicated to making your real estate journey efficient and enjoyable.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, trust Christine to guide you every step of the way.
SOUNDS OF SUMMER
Wade Ogle, Owner of Block St. Records
TUNES THAT CAN BE HEARD FROM BLOCK STREET AND BEYOND.
ARTICLE
Nestled near the Fayetteville Square is the renowned store, Block Street Records. Here you can find a music library spanning of all decades. When you step into this classic vinyl vault, you’ll take a walk through musical generations. No matter your age, you are guaranteed to find your favorite genre in this independent record store. Wade Ogle, owner of the company, has influenced
BY HAILEY SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN
those around him and worked hard to make this store the successful local staple it is. While the storefront holds a vintage aesthetic, the business is always in a constant state of updates. The company continues to evolve with new records, seasonal releases, and fresh posters. With designs from local artist Chad Maupin at BigBot Creative, the record store also displays its t-shirt designs with glow-in-the-dark ink. “I like to present cool stuff and love when people are impressed,” Ogle states.
“I LIKE TO PRESENT COOL STUFF AND LOVE WHEN PEOPLE ARE IMPRESSED.”
One of the biggest questions that Block Street Records gets asked is, “What should I know before buying a record player?” The first step is identifying your budget and the expectations you hold. A traditional record player setup is a turntable, receiver, and passive speakers. But if you’re new to collecting vinyl, Wade suggests a turntable with a “preamp” and powered speakers. This is the simple option, where you can put more of your efforts into vinyl collecting. Block Street Records is a licensed “Audio-Technica” and “Edifier” dealer and is happy to help you find the perfect system
for your record goals. Retro players tend to have sound issues, so a newer turntable is your best bet for the long run. Ogle’s favorite record as of now is Frank Sinatra’s “Watertown”. “This record reminds me of what I thought adults were like in 1970. Classy, romantic, sincere, I love it,” Wade states. Head on into the store to find your favorite tune on vinyl.
The eclectic shop filled with deep cuts has maintained a diligent mentality through the years. Music can be a way of life for many, and the staff at Block Street Records does not take that lightly. One of the most popular
days in the industry is “Record Store Day”, the single largest international record event of the year. Hundreds will line up around the square days in advance to wait in line for special, limited releases. Next April, keep your eyes peeled for this massive event celebrated at both locations. The flagship Fayetteville location opened in 2014, and Bentonville welcomed a smaller storefront in 2018. Both stores receive hundreds of new and vintage records per week. Like movie releases, new items drop every Friday for the store to showcase. Many new editions will include “indie exclusive”, which are only sold at independent record stores, like BSR. In the United States, there are approximately 2000 independent record stores today. You might be wondering, “What about the vintage pieces?”. Used and vintage records are what keep most stores open to this day, with their special value in the communities. “It’s a near-constant dopamine rush for us and our customers,” Wade says. Both shops are stocked and are always adding more where they can. Getting to scour through sections and bins of past vinyl makes the experience one you will never forget. This established business is pretty old school, with no website or online sales, keeping it brick and mortar only. Not changing anything has had a great impact on the company. Summer in Fayetteville is not complete without a set music list for you and your peers. Visit Block Street Records today to jump into the emporium of music and sound.
Block St. Records
F A V I L L E
Fayetteville Restaurant Week isn’t just about food. It’s about stories, memories, and the people who bring flavor to our everyday lives. Every year, this week-long celebration transforms Fayetteville into a vibrant tasting menu of the city’s best. Whether you’re a longtime local or a hungry traveler, the restaurants on this year’s roster bring the heat, the heart, and the heritage. This year, we are taking you behind the scenes into four restaurants’ special offerings for Fayetteville Restaurant Week this July 20-26, 2025.
Crepe's Paulette Lean Green Crepe
Let’s start with Dot’s Nashville Hot Chicken, where fire meets flavor in the most unforgettable way. When Russell and Sarah moved from Nashville to Fayetteville, their biggest concern wasn’t finding a house or adjusting to the hills. It was the lack of cayenne-drenched fried chicken. Instead of settling, they decided to bring a little Tennessee with them. Since 2017, Dot’s has been serving up chicken that bites back, but you’ll never mind the burn. This year, they’re bringing back a fan favorite, “Flight of the Chicken” for Fayetteville Restaurant Week, taking brave diners through all their heat levels. Every bite is a masterclass in crispy, juicy chicken, made even better by scratch-made sauces and house-pickled accompaniments. And while the chicken is the star, Dot’s also shines for its commitment to sustainability. Everything from the side bowls to the utensils is compostable, thanks to their partnership with Food Loops. Their use of local farms like Bassett, ONB, and White River Creamery keeps their roots firmly in Arkansas soil.
Chef Russell, Dot's Hot Chicken
Stonebreaker's Banana Split Ice Cream Sandwich
Just up the road, Stonebreaker is redefining what it means to dine in the Ozarks. Nestled in the hills and just far enough from the bustle of downtown, this refined spot offers a breath of fresh air and a bite of something memorable. Arkansas native Chef Tyler Rogers doesn’t just cook, he crafts. His menus are rooted in the region, reflecting both a deep respect for local ingredients and an imaginative twist on Southern comfort. For Restaurant Week, don’t miss their Banana Split Ice Cream Sandwich. It’s a reimagined classic with the special Stonebreaker flair. Just a stone’s throw from downtown, this spot offers a calm retreat that feels like a staycation.
Then there’s Crêpes Paulette, the food truck turned institution that feels like Fayetteville with a French accent. What began as a pop-up on the Bentonville Square in 2010 has since bloomed into a full-fledged eatery in Fayetteville, offering sweet and savory crêpes that blend global flavors with local charm. Founders Paula Jo and Frédéric Henry bring French technique and Arkansas creativity to every bite. Kids love watching the crêpes being twirled on the griddle through their crêpe-viewing window, and adults come back for dishes like the Thai crêpe or the strawberry Nutella classic. During Restaurant Week, they’re offering a sweet deal. Any savory crêpe on the menu is part of their combo meal, giving diners a chance to try something bold without breaking their budget. True to their roots, Crêpes Paulette keeps things green, minimizing waste and supporting community causes while keeping their kitchen fast and fun.
Finally, step into Café Rue Orleans, where the scent of étouffée and the sound of Zydeco swirl through the air like a Louisiana breeze. For 25 years, Chef Maudie Schmitt and co-owner Carla Williams have turned a funky little Fayetteville spot into a true slice of New Orleans. From family recipes passed down through generations to a mirrored pane that once hung in Maudie’s grandmother’s French Quarter home, this place
is steeped in tradition and love. If you’ve never had their Crawfish Étouffée, you’re missing out on a dish that tastes like it was simmered straight out of the bayou. For Restaurant Week, they’re offering a warm Southern welcome. Enjoy free beignets with any $25 purchase. It’s the kind of sugary, pillowy treat that reminds you why food can be the best kind of souvenir.
Fayetteville Restaurant Week (July 20–26, 2025) is a flavorful celebration of local culture, not just plates. It’s your chance to support small businesses, savor creative dishes, and discover the stories behind beloved spots like Dot’s, Stonebreaker, Crêpes Paulette, and Café Rue Orleans. Eat local. Taste Fayetteville. Share the love.
Restaurant Week is the best excuse you’ll get to explore Fayetteville one bite at a time. Whether it’s Dot’s fiery chicken flight, a Parisian-style crêpe, or a banana split ice cream sandwich with a twist, these dishes showcase the creative flare behind our local food scene. Supporting our restaurants means backing the people and flavors that make Fayetteville one of a kind. So pick a spot, try something new, and taste what this city is made of.
Chef Tyler Rogers, Stonebreaker
Café Rue Orleans, Shrimp Pontchartrain
BEAUTY
and function to the eyes and face
Hot Days, Cool Spots
FAYETTEVILLE HAS A NUMBER OF WAYS TO ENJOY THE SUMMER
ARTICLE BY WILL NEWTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PRUITT
Fayetteville Parks Lake Fayetteville
It’s summer in Fayetteville which means school’s out and the temperature is high. While it’s easy to stay indoors and enjoy the air conditioning, the city has a long list of activities to get out of the house and enjoy the summer. Whether it’s getting together with friends and playing golf at one of the many golf courses around the city, gathering with your family to watch the fireworks at Arvest Ballpark after an Arkansas Naturals baseball game or spending an evening solo to listen to one of the many local artists lined up for the Gulley Park Concert series, there will never be a dull day in Fayetteville. Check out this list of summer happenings curated by the Fayetteville City Lifestyle team to add to your calendar:
THE GULLEY PARK CONCERT SERIES
Gulley Park is a staple of Fayetteville, with amenities that include a playground, walking trails, an outdoor gym and an interactive splash pad for children. Additionally, for the last 29 years, Gulley Park has been home to a beloved concert series featuring up-and-coming artists and bands for six nights of live music, food trucks, and artist vendors. Spend an evening celebrating art and live music by attending one (or all!) of the Gulley Park Concert Series’ shows, including a kids’ night that features bounce houses, obstacle courses, face painting booths, and more. This summer’s lineup includes:
• June 12: Ultra Suede
• June 19: National Park Radio
• June 26: Emo Night: Taylor’s Version (Kids Night)
• July 10: Rochelle Bradshaw & Hypnotion
• July 17: Dandelion Heart
• July 24: King Cabbage Brass Band
THE ARKANSAS NATURALS FIREWORKS SHOW
The Arkansas Naturals baseball team is a beloved staple of Northwest Arkansas. Each home game features local schools’ choirs and marching bands, have interactive games on the fields for children in the crowds, and has different themed games that include $1 Hot Dogs, Thirsty Thursdays and pop-culture themed nights, but did you know that the Arvest Ballpark is home to one of the largest firework shows in the entire state of Arkansas? On certain Friday and Saturday night home games, Arkansas Naturals ticket holders are welcome to stay after the game to enjoy a massive firework show – a perfect way to end the week with your loved ones.
FAYETTEVILLE MOVEMENT FESTIVAL AT MOUNT SEQUOYAH
It’s important to stay active during the summer, but there are more ways to do so than just exercising or running on the treadmill. On July 4-6th, Mount Sequoyah is hosting its annual Fayetteville Movement Festival, a three-day event that hosts dance, art, therapy and improvisation classes that are designed for beginners. The festival is on a mission to nurture the creative sides of those who attend. Tickets range in price depending on your desired level of access for the weekend, but all children may take part in the festival for free, according to the festival’s website. Grab your tickets while they last!
FIREFLY FLING FESTIVAL
On July 19th from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., the Firefly Fling Festival is hosted at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Come dressed as a pirate, fairy, pirate,
CONTINUED >
“It’s important to stay active during the summer, but there are more ways to do so than just exercising or running on the treadmill.”
“For the explorers in the family, Fayetteville has a wide selection of outdoors areas to explore.”
Blair Library, Fayetteville Public Library
Wilson Park Pool
superhero or any other fantastical being and spend the evening with mermaids and pirates. The event will feature food trucks, educational displays, henna tattoos, face painting, fairy houses, and giant bubbles. After a night of singing and dancing, the festival will close with fire dancers and a laser light show. Adult tickets are available for $35 and children’s tickets are available for $17 and botanical garden member prices for adults and children are listed for $25 and $12, respectively.
STONEBRIDGE MEADOWS GOLF CLUB
Spending an afternoon on the green can be an easy way to pass the time this summer, regardless of if you are a member of a country club or not. Stonebridge Meadows Golf Club offers interested golfers access to its golf course and driving range for a fee. Whether you are a golf expert or you are new to the tee, Stonebridge Meadows’ accessibility is a perfect addition to your summer activity calendar.
WILSON PARK MUNICIPAL POOL
When temperatures are at their peak, one of the best ways to cool off is to take a dip in the water. With affordable admission prices and a range of activities and events such as its Dive-In Movie program, the Wilson Park Municipal Pool can help the entire family beat the heat and make new memories.
FAYETTEVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM
While there are great ways to explore the city this summer, sometimes resting at home is a great way to spend the day. Luckily, there is still a way
to get involved with the city from the comfort of your home with the Fayetteville Public Library’s Summer Reading Program. For the entire summer, the Fayetteville Public Library is offering an incentive program designed to get readers of all ages to log their reading. Regardless of if you are reading handheld books or through audiobooks, readers are entered in a drawing for each milestone they achieve. Prizes for winners range from local coupons to a grand prize. If you aren’t already a cardholder at the Fayetteville Public Library, join for free today and start getting rewards for your reading!
LOCAL TRAILS
For the explorers in the family, Fayetteville has a wide selection of outdoors areas to explore. The Lake Fayetteville trail is an approximately 5.5 mile paved circle around Lake Fayetteville that is friendly to walkers, joggers, runners, bikers and electric scooters and has several trailheads to enter from. A much shorter hike is the Mount Sequoyah Woods Trail, an approximately 1.25 mile loop in the woods of Mount Sequoyah and features two trailheads to start your hike.
LOCAL BAR AND COFFEE SHOP EVENTS
While there are several locations and events happening in Fayetteville this summer that are accessible for all ages, there are certainly some happenings this summer designed for the adults. Check out the events calendars of your favorite local bars and coffee shops for a wide selection of ways to spend your evenings while supporting your local businesses, including trivia nights, karaoke nights, wine tastings, and more.
LEARN MORE: Follow: @fayettevillecitylifestyle on Instagram and Facebook for our “This Week in Fay” weekly posts of all the events happening in the city.
Great Financial Habits Start Early.
CLOSET SUMMER MAKEOVER
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN
THOUGHTFUL ORGANIZATION, CUSTOM CRAFTSMANSHIP, AND LOCAL EXPERTISE COME TOGETHER TO BRING CALM TO EVERYDAY SPACES.
Case and Melissa Maner, Owner's, Closets by Design
There’s a certain satisfaction in opening a well-organized closet where everything has a place. The morning rush feels less frantic, and your favorite summer staples are front and center. But that level of calm doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention, craftsmanship, and an understanding of how people really live. That’s the philosophy behind Closets by Design, a locally owned business bringing custom organization to life and making a curated space feel entirely within reach.
CONTINUED >
THE ROOT of It All
Building a Better Coworking Experience
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SULLIVAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PRUITT
Let’s be honest, most workspaces aren’t exactly inspiring. But The Root, Fayetteville’s newest coworking space, is flipping the script entirely. Designed with intention, warmth, and community at its core, The Root isn’t just a place to plug in your laptop but also a place to enjoy your workday. With flexible memberships, thoughtful amenities, and an energy that feels like your favorite coffee shop, it’s no surprise that creatives, entrepreneurs, and remote teams are already calling it their work home.
The Root
From expansive shared spaces to sun-drenched private offices and fully-equipped conference rooms, it’s the perfect setting to get things done. Root Coworking in Fayetteville blends productivity with comfort, creating an inspiring environment for creatives, professionals, and entrepreneurs alike. Once you’re here, you’ll see why it’s hard to leave.
Founded by Ben Von Drehle, The Root was born from a simple idea: your office shouldn’t suck. “I’ve worked in a lot of spaces that looked cool but felt cold or were comfortable but lacked functionality,” says Ben. “We wanted to build a place that was warm, intentional, and genuinely enjoyable to be in.” From the moment you walk through the doors, you can feel the difference. The space is airy, bright, and inviting, designed to inspire focus and foster connection.
What sets The Root apart goes beyond its beautifully designed interiors. “We approach coworking through the lens of hospitality,” Ben explains. “That means anticipating needs before they’re asked for, creating a space that feels comfortable but elevated, and making sure every interaction is personal.”
Fostering connection beyond the desk, The Root hosts regular events such as happy hours, founder talks, and local maker pop-ups designed to spark genuine relationships and build community. Some gatherings are structured, like community lunches or holiday hunts, while others are casual and drop-in. It’s this thoughtful, member-focused approach that makes The Root feel more like a home base than an office.
The heart of the space is the coffee bar and kitchen. The Root partners with local favorite Onyx Coffee Lab to offer complimentary drip coffee, cold brew, and tea. For those wanting something a little extra, the in-house café offers premium espresso drinks from iced lattes (a crowd favorite) to matcha and chai, plus freshly baked cookies from The Baker’s House. The kitchen also serves as a gathering space, whether during member events or impromptu midday snack breaks.
“People love the vibe,” says Community Manager Kelsey Ryder. “It’s like working from home with the energy and support of a real community.” And take it from us, the Fayetteville City Lifestyle team, calls The Root home, too. We love being part of such a dynamic, inspiring space that genuinely makes work more enjoyable!
Conveniently located in Fayetteville’s booming uptown business district, The Root is perfectly positioned for those who want flexibility, focus, and a sense of belonging. Book a tour at therootcoworking.com or swing by. You’ll feel right at home the moment you step inside!
SHARED WORKSPACES:
The Root’s shared workspaces are designed for flexibility and focus. With plenty of natural light and stylish surroundings, members can choose a seat that suits their workflow, whether they work solo or collaboratively.
MEETING ROOMS:
Equipped with the latest technology, these meeting rooms are ideal for everything from client calls to team strategy sessions. Each space is designed to support productive and professional conversations.
IN-HOUSE KITCHEN:
Members enjoy the convenience of an on-site kitchen perfect for a mid-morning coffee, lunch breaks, or casual chats. It’s a community hub that brings people together over good food and warm conversation.
CHAT BOOTHS:
For moments that call for privacy, The Root offers quiet, soundproof chat booths. Whether it’s a Zoom call or a confidential discussion, these booths ensure focus without distraction.
LOUNGE AREAS:
Comfort meets intention in The Root’s lounge areas. These relaxed, well-designed spaces offer members a change of pace: ideal for unwinding, casual work, or connecting with others in the community.
PRIVATE OFFICES:
Natural light, modern furnishings, and a touch of personality make these private offices a dream for remote professionals. Members enjoy a space that’s fully theirs—quiet, focused, and effortlessly professional.
This magazine exists because Gavin said ‘Yes.’
Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.
Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?
Fayetteville City Lifestyle
Published by Gavin Loved by Fayetteville
The Good Life: Fayetteville Summer Strolls
EXPERIENCE FAYETTEVILLE’S CHARM—ONE EVENING STROLL AT A TIME.
1. U of A Campus + Lambeth Lounge
Soak in collegiate charm with a golden hour stroll through campus, where graduate names line the sidewalks. Then slip into the historic Lambeth Lounge for a perfectly made cocktail.
Fayetteville’s most beloved park offers a shady loop trail, whimsical gardens, and a storybook stone castle. Grab a classic concrete from Shake’s and enjoy a sweet stroll through it all.
4. Lake Fayetteville + Bistro Smoothie
Grab a refreshing smoothie from Lake Fayetteville Bistro, then walk across the dam for a waterfall view. Continue along forest trails past Veteran’s Park for a serene summer escape.
Start your stroll on lively Dickson Street, take in the sights, then make your way to the Square for a cocktail at Guisinger—where timeless style meets Fayetteville’s buzzing evening energy.
Want more curated local finds? Grab my free 4-day NWA itinerary at TheGoodLifeNWA.com/4DayGuide and follow @TheGoodLifeNWA on Instagram for daily adventures across Northwest Arkansas!
3. Dickson Street + Guisinger
5. Bonus: 4-Day NWA Guide
2. Wilson Park + Shake’s
Maria Lanning
MeetAbbie
I’m a hairstylist at Salon Fifty Four, specializing in Custom Blonding and Dimensional Lived-In Color. I’ve been in the industry for five years, and my favorite part of the job is helping women feel heard, cared for, and truly seen! My top priority is that you leave my chair feeling like the best version of yourself, and I pour my heart into every appointment to make that happen.
I’m a sunshine-obsessed girl who, in another life, would probably be living on a tropical island. When I’m not in the salon — or treasure hunting at a thrift store — you can find me on our homestead bird-watching, reading, soaking up the sun, listening to self-help books, or cuddling my sweet pup, Mia.
A SPECIAL TREAT FROM ABBIE Mention this ad when b ooking any blonding service with Abbie and receive $20 off your appointment.
Your Personal Jewelry Concierge
Exclusive. Expert. Eterna.
SERVICES
Restore & Repurpose
Custom Design
Scrap Refining
Jewelry Liquidation
JEWELRY WITH A STORY DESERVES A FUTURE.
Introducing ETERNA — luxury concierge services from the experts at Romance Diamond Co. We help you preserve, redesign, and make sense of the pieces that matter most — with care, discretion, and decades of expertise.
Styling & Wear Guidance
Appraisal
Documentation
Storage Solutions
SCAN TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO GET STARTED — WE’LL HELP YOU MAKE SENSE OF IT ALL, WITH CARE AND EXPERTISE.