Mercer Island, WA March 2023

Naturally Inspired Retreat DEFINED BY CASUAL ELEGANCE

P R O F E S S I O N A L S E RV I C E S

TRE AT YOU R PET LI KE A V I P R E A L E S TATE

LOVE IT O R LIST IT M A R C H 2 02 3

Mercer Island’s Luxury & Waterfront Expert

7464 E Mercer Way $8,150,000

6800 96th Ave SE $8,000,000

7255 W Ridge Rd $7,500,000

LD

SO

LD

SO

LD

SO

6333 77th Ave SE $7,745,000

LD SO

LD SO

LD SO

6315 77th Ave SE $12,000,000

8084 Avalon Dr $6,975,000

D

E ST

LI

JUST LISTED! Jaw-Dropping Westside Waterfront Rarely available walk-out waterfront just steps to the lakeshore on Mercer Island’s coveted Gold Coast! Centerstage Seattle skyline and mountain views from nearly every room. Savor breathtaking sunsets on ~112’ of westside lakefront. Prepare to fall in love!

5237 Forest Ave SE | $6,895,000

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes o made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothi

Island Insight You Deserve

I am proud to live, raise my family, work and support this special community. I value my clients’ trust and interests above all, and strive to exceed expectations and provide exceptional results. Reach out to learn how I can put my expertise to work for you!

$450M+ in lifetime sales

22 Years Real Estate &

No. 1 Mercer Island’s

Legal Experience

Highest Sale in 2022

No. 1 Mercer Island Broker

No. 1 Mercer Island Broker

No. 1 Social Media

in Waterfront Sales 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019

in Sales Volume

Following of all M.I. Brokers

volume & counting

Kelly Weisfield J.D., CRS, ABR Founding Broker | Compass WA 206.355.3863 KellyWeisfield.com

Sold by Kelly Weisfield

only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is ing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

March 2023 PUBLISHER

Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Michael Stein | michael.stein@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Introducing our Editor, Heather Sittig Hello. I’m Heather Sittig, and I spent my formative years on Mercer Island catching tadpoles in Ellis pond, learning to swim at Luther Burbank Park, and delivering newspapers to my North End neighbors. Joining Mercer Island City Lifestyle as your Editor feels like coming home. What could be more fitting than this opportunity to introduce our March Home edition!

I have always been intrigued by homes, and the ways in which we inhabit them, and this has influenced most of my career and personal life. I studied architecture at the University of Washington and ultimately spent the next two decades immersed in the world of luxury real estate.

Our homes are our most intimate spaces, where we raise our families, share dreams with close friends – where we feel free to create environments that reflect our true selves. As we evolve our homes do too, and for this edition I enjoyed learning about how some Islanders are breathing new life into their homes.

Maybe you are in your home right now and have the opportunity to curl up in a favorite spot with a warm beverage and peruse these pages. I hope you will enjoy taking a home tour of the stunning residence recently renovated with the help of the talented Amy May from Artala Designs. If you are thinking of making improvements to your home don’t miss the helpful tips from Mary Lee, local Real Estate expert in our “Love It or List It!” feature.

One of my favorite things to do at home is share a meal with people I love, so I’m particularly looking forward to trying out Olivia Tipton’s Moroccan Spiced Salmon with my family this weekend – perhaps you will too!

Whatever it is that makes you feel at home, we hope that the edition will inspire you to reflect and appreciate this magical Island we all call home.

Warmly,

EDITOR

Heather Sittig | heather.sittig@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Peter Brown, Mary Lee, Olivia Tipton CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Ben Benschneider, Cindy Apple, Mary Lee, Lydia Brewer, Kim Preston, Jonathan Marrs, Nick Torres

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Proctor

H E AT H E R S I T T I G , E D I TO R @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/MERCERISL AND |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Mercer Island City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Mercer Island area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mercer Island City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

6

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

MARCH 2023

inside the issue The Home Issue

20

14

24

12

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Treat Your Pet Like a VIP

6

Lifestyle Letter

10

City Scene

12

Pet Care PR O FES S I O NA L S ERV I C E S

14

Open House HO ME + DES I GN

20

Financial Buzz R EA L ESTAT E

24

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

28

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

32

Events

An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

14 Naturally Inspired Retreat Defined by Casual Elegance

Mercer Island couple makes their forever home a stunner

20 Love It or List It

Home improvements done today could benefit you if you sell

24 The Hidden Gem of Pioneer Square Gray Sky Gallery | A contemporary hub for Artists and Art Lovers

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Ben Benschneider Interior Design by Amy May | Artala Designs

8

MARCH 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1

3

6

4

2

7 5

1-3: MIHS students rehearse ‘And a Child Shall Lead’. Evening performances run February 2nd-4th and 9th-11th Photography by Alexander Chvany 4: Seattle Skin and Laser Open House, January 19, 2023 5-6: Island Animal Hospital Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration, January 19, 2023 7:Sabor De Mexico Restaurant & Cantina, Grand Opening, January 14th. Photography by @mercerislandcitylifestyle

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @mercerislandcitylifestyle

10

C I T Y SC E N E

2023 2023Market MarketInsights Insights The The last last few few years years have have seen seen record-setting record-setting home home appreciation appreciation on on Mercer Mercer Island.

Island.While Whilemany manysellers sellersare areexcited excitedabout aboutthe theincrease increaseininthe thevalue valueofof their theirhome, home,it ithas hascreated createdchallenges challengesfor forsome somesellers sellerswith withthe theincrease increase inin property property taxes, taxes, and and housing housing affordability affordability for for buyers. buyers.

• •Housing Housinginventory inventorywill willcontinue continuetotobe below lowdue duetotoa alack lackofofnew new construction constructionoptions optionsand andsome somesellers sellerspostponing postponingselling sellingbecause because they they can’t can’t take take their their low-rate low-rate interest interest rates rates with with them. them.

• •Continued Continuedbuyer buyerdemand demandand andlow lowinventory inventorywill willresult resultininhome homeprice price appreciation appreciation between between 6.5% 6.5% and and 8.37%.

8.37%.

• •The The total total number number ofof home home sales sales could could decline decline up up toto 15% 15% due due toto higher higher interest interest rates rates and and low low inventory. inventory.

• •Interest Interest rates rates will will come come down down mid mid toto late late year. year.

• •Homeowners Homeownersare arelooking lookingtotodiversify diversifytheir theirinvestment investmentstrategies strategiesbyby purchasing purchasinga asecond secondhome, home,ananinvestment investmentproperty, property,ororhelping helpingtheir their children children purchase purchase aa home. home.

MARY MARYLEE LEE

Working Workingwith withananexperienced experiencedagent agentwho whoknows knowsthe themarket marketand andthe the factors factors that that influence influence it it puts puts you you inin aa strategically strategically advantageous advantageous position. position.

425-941-4229 425-941-4229

Let’s Let’sdiscuss discussyour yourreal realestate estategoals goalsinin2023!

2023!

Mary@MaryLeeRealEstate.com Mary@MaryLeeRealEstate.com

Direct: Direct:

Y YE EA AR R O OV VE ER R Y YE EA AR R R RE EV VI E I EWW O OF F

The TheMercer MercerIsland IslandMarket Market

SOLD SOLD LISTINGS LISTINGS

MEDIAN MEDIAN SALES SALES PRICE PRICE

SALE-TO-LIST SALE-TO-LIST PRICE PRICE RATIO RATIO

AVERAGE AVERAGE DAYS DAYS ON ON MARKET MARKET

I NI N 202 202 2 2

I NI N 202 202 2 2

I NI N 202 202 2 2

I NI N 202 202 2 2

20 20 99

$$ 22 , 55 , 55 0,000 0,000

-37.6% -37.6%

+1+144.6% .6%

CHANGE CHANGE OVER OVER 2021 2021

CHANGE CHANGE OVER OVER 2021 2021

105.7 105.7 %%

-2-2.6% .6% CHANGE CHANGE OVER OVER 2021 2021

1 61 6

+23 +23.1.1%% CHANGE CHANGE OVER OVER 2021 2021

*Information *Information andand statistics statistics derived derived from from NWMLS NWMLS for for residential residential properties properties on on Mercer Mercer Island.

Island.

I Iwiwillllbebewawatchtchingingthethesese tretrendnds sallallyeayear rlonlong,g,soso stastay ytuntunededtotoseeseehow howthethesese shshapeapeouour rmamarkerket thi t this syeayear.r.

SeSendndmemeyoyoururququestestionions!s!

~~M Mararyy

www.MaryLeeRealEstate.com www.MaryLeeRealEstate.com

Curious Curious about about what’s what’s happening happening inin the the Mercer Mercer Island Island Market?

Market?

Scan Scan the the QR QR code code for for the the latest latest monthly monthly data data oror contact contact me me for for aa custom custom report report delivered delivered toto your your inbox inbox every every month. month.

Treat Your Pet Like a VIP

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE

ARTICLE BY PETER BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN MARRS OF ATELIER PICTURES AND ADOBE

Peter Brown and Sammy

12

P E T CA R E | PR OFESSION AL S E RVI CE S

My dog Sammy and my cats, Boo, Jolly and Smores, are part of my family. Our house would not be a home without them! As a veterinarian for over three decades, I have seen a transition in the profession, from a focus on treating disease to preventing disease. As human medicine and dentistry focuses on things like how to prevent cancer, how to prevent heart disease and how to keep your teeth healthy, it’s the same in veterinary medicine – prevention and early intervention saves lives and helps keep families whole.

What does a preventive care visit entail for your pet? In our clinics, we focus on prevention and early detection of disease.

By providing regular check-ups, vaccinations, and other preventive measures, our veterinarians can help to ensure that your pets stay healthy and avoid potential diseases or conditions that can cause serious illness or even death.

One critical element of preventive care is vaccination. Many diseases are rare today, thanks to the amazing technology of vaccines. It is critical to keep your pet up to date as many vaccines have a short duration of protection.

Another critical element to prevent disease in your pet is routine parasite prevention. Our pets, both indoor and outdoor, are exposed to parasites every day. Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes; other parasites are transmitted by fecal contamination.

Your dog walking in the yard and then cleaning their feet is all that it takes!

There are many safe and effective prescription products to prevent these devastating diseases. Ask your veterinarian what is best for your pet. These products will not only protect dogs and cats but also the two-legged family members in the home, as many of these diseases are transferable to people.

The other, and equally important, part of your routine preventive care

visit is the early detection of disease.

Most diseases or ailments that affect our pets are much more successfully treated when identified early. Examples include cancer, kidney disease, arthritis, dental issues, and heart disease. Early detection will help lengthen the quality and quantity of your pet’s life, and it will also reduce the costs of treating most diseases. By preventing health problems before they occur, pet owners can avoid the need for more expensive treatments or procedures that may be required if an animal becomes seriously ill.

Our pets cannot verbally tell us when they are feeling “off”. They instinctually hide their symptoms as a survival mechanism. But while this instinct certainly serves them well in the wild, our pets tend to suffer quietly. They need to be examined to determine if everything is OK. The most critical part of a preventative care exam is the physical examination. The doctor will also include some basic blood and urine testing as some diseases are found much earlier and easier through testing. Having your pet seen twice a year for an exam and having their blood and urine tested once per year will enable the veterinary team to detect and treat any sign of disease early.

In 2018, I founded Cara Veterinary with a belief in shaking up the industry.

As pets have moved from the backyard to sleeping in our beds, the focus of veterinary medicine at our Cara clinics has also changed: we are there for you when your pets need urgent care AND we are there to prevent disease and keep them healthy and happy, along with detecting disease earlier than we ever thought was possible.

Much like what mammograms have done in human medicine to detect breast cancer early, dramatically improving survival rates. Preventive care visits for your pet can have the same impact.

Cara Veterinary is a family of hospitals in the greater Seattle area. Cara’s newest clinic is Island Animal Hospital, on Mercer Island. We offer a VIP Membership plan that ensures your pet gets the best care possible, providing all your preventive care needs with a convenient monthly payment plan. The VIP membership includes preventive care exams, necessary testing, annual parasite prevention, required vaccines, discounts on food and supplements,

We offer a VIP Membership plan that ensures your pet gets the best care possible, providing all your preventive care needs with a convenient monthly payment plan. The VIP membership includes preventive care exams, necessary testing, annual parasite prevention, required vaccines, discounts on food and supplements, and many fun perks.

and many fun perks like priority appointment availability for members. The plan was designed by the amazing doctors that work at Cara with the objective of keeping your pet a part of your family for as long as possible.

Overall, preventative care is an essential part of responsible pet ownership and can help to ensure the long-term health and well-being of the pets who mean so much to our own health and happiness.

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

13

Naturally Inspired Retreat Defined by Casual Elegance Mercer Island couple makes their forever home a stunner

ARTICLE BY HEATHER SITTIG PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN BENSCHNEIDER AND CINDY APPLE

Perched on a hilltop on Mercer Island’s North End, this family home enjoys sweeping territorial views of the Cascades and Lake Washington, as well as privacy and seclusion.

The owners have lived here for decades, raising their children in this one-of-a-kind home, and as they planned for years ahead hosting family and friends, they couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. However, the home showed its age and the couple decided it was time to refresh the property to suit their current needs. The kitchen was the first room they wanted to tackle, as their existing layout was closed off and didn’t have a dining area that would allow for entertainment or family gatherings. They had some ideas about what they wanted but didn’t have the experience to design the project themselves, so they hired

local designer Amy May of Artala Designs to help them achieve their vision.

The owners tell us that when they originally imagined renovating the kitchen they couldn’t see past white on white, which is often featured in so many magazines today, but by working with Amy they were rewarded with something completely different that is a true reflection of themselves. They explained that Amy’s listening and interpretive skills put them at ease, enabling them to share ideas, and respond to her suggestions, with an openness that allowed for genuine collaboration. As a result, they ended up not just expanding and redesigning their kitchen, but the entire first floor and primary suite as well.

Homeowner Terri explains, “Amy’s emotional intelligence, empathy, and organically CONTINUED >

14

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Photography by Cindy Apple

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

15

Photography by Cindy Apple

Photography by Ben Benschneider

16

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Photography by Cindy Apple

evolving design method, changed my life perspective, and I really enjoyed the process. Every piece my eye lands on has a story, every moment of this growth encapsulated forever in our home.”

Amy describes her process as organic, soulful and collaborative. She spends time getting to know the owners, and understanding not only their design aesthetic, but also their lifestyle, personalities, and functional needs. Amy doesn’t take a siloed approach to design, but instead includes the owners in all the decisions, from selection of materials and fixtures to colors and textures, all in an effort to create clients’ own story. By getting consistent feedback from the owners Amy is able to help them refine their design into something that is a true reflection of their personalities and needs. It is through this process that what was originally expected to be a white-on-white kitchen turned out to be a stunning showcase of gleaming walnut cabinetry topped with blue Oceano stone countertops.

Clearly the decision to hire Amy and immerse themselves in the process resulted in more than they ever dreamed it could be. When you enter the main floor of the home you feel like you’ve been transported into a lakeview retreat which offers serenity and relaxation. The wall of windows frames a breathtaking view, which coexists with foggy hues of gray and blue saturating the natural interior elements. Natural materials such as stone, walnut, and wool, are integrated in a sophisticated modern motif that both echoes and celebrates the stunning landscape. The paint color creates the illusion that the mountains and lake are flowing into the walls themselves.

Terri explains that they would have probably just painted the trim a traditional white, which would have broken the visual effect and distracted the eye from the view. Thanks to Amy’s design creativity, the owners were able to avoid what appeared to be obvious choices that would have prevented the outcome they achieved.

The new kitchen is open to the spacious dining and living area, which facilitates casual dinner parties and enables the cook to converse with the guests as they mingle and lounge. A floor to ceiling modern marble façade defines the fireplace and anchors the living area. Scrumptious seating invites one to sit back and relax while curled up

Photography by Cindy Apple

CONTINUED >

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

17

Photography by Ben Benschneider

Photography by Cindy Apple

18

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

“Amy’s emotional intelligence, empathy, and organically evolving design method, changed my life perspective, and I really enjoyed the process. Every piece my eye lands on has a story, every moment of this growth encapsulated forever in our home.” with a book or just being mesmerized by the view. The dining area features a round table, which keeps the room from feeling chopped up and enhances the overall flow of the space.

A glass chandelier, with a design evocative of rain, casts a warm light while also reminding us we are in the Northwest – once again weaving an organic motif inspired by the region.

One kitchen wall is flanked by double-sided walnut cabinetry that divides the kitchen from the entrance to the powder room. The result is an ingenious means of increasing storage while also creating an opulent and private entry for the small bathroom. The powder room itself is a true reflection of the collaboration between the owners and the designer, in that it features a beautiful Italian quartzite countertop, as well as Venetian glass sconces the owners sourced on a trip to Italy. Amy opted to continue the walnut cabinetry from the hallway into the powder room to uniquely connect the two spaces and create even more much needed storage.

This type of ingenuity carries itself through to the primary suite, which is equally endowed with views of the lake. The bedroom manages to be spacious but still feel cozy thanks to moody wallpaper, mercury glass lamps, and a garnet settee. Luxurious touches don’t stop there, but are also abundant in the spalike bathroom – one which could rival the

bathroom in any luxury hotel. The freestanding soaking tub is partially surrounded by a custom shelf and landing, making it easier to access while still accentuating the elegant contours of the tub. The floor features Italian stone tile which displays shell fossils captured in the natural stone. It’s easy to get swept away by the thoughtful details.

All of these lovely living spaces double as an art gallery. The couple has a wonderful collection of glassworks, and Amy made sure they are thoughtfully incorporated into the living area design. In addition, Amy worked with Laura Van Horne, owner of Gray Sky Gallery and a mixed-media artist, to offer the client paintings that would continue the story being told in the spaces they adorn. It was important to the clients that the home feature work by local artists, and connect the home to the natural environment, and Amy weaved them effortlessly into the new design of the house.

The space created now feels intentional and elegant, an extension of the outdoors while still being refined, just like the homeowners always dreamed of. One can imagine both curling up with a coffee and reading the paper in front of the view, as well as clinking champagne glasses with friends while celebrating life’s accomplishments. This special home does it all, and will serve its occupants well for life’s next adventures.

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

19

LOVE IT OR LIST IT Home improvements done today could benefit you if you sell Because renovations today can boost the future resale value of a property, Mercer Island residents who may have been thinking about listing their home could instead make some improvements now and love their house for a while longer. When considering making home improvements it’s best to focus on the rooms most used – typically the kitchen, bathrooms and the primary bedroom. It’s not necessary to do a full gut renovation – it could be enough to paint cabinets and install new countertops, appliances, lighting or flooring.

Everyday thousands of homeowners across the country ask themselves, should we stay, or should we go? A recent survey commissioned by Discover Home Loans found that 79% of homeowners would rather renovate their current home than move to a different one. With mortgage rates topping 7% for the first time in 20 years, homeowners are incentivized to stay put and update their home to meet their current needs.

Small changes can have a big impact.

"Most homeowners make strategic minor improvements, as the return on investment is quite favorable."

ARTICLE BY MARY LEE, REALOGICS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARY LEE AND ADOBE

20

F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | R EAL E STATE

Most homeowners make strategic minor improvements, as the return on investment is quite favorable. Simple changes can go a long way. Plush new carpet or refinishing hardwood floors underneath old carpet, upgrading outdated vinyl flooring and fresh new paint can all refresh a home tremendously. When the time comes to sell, minor improvements combined with professional staging can attract more buyers and help the home compete more favorably with other homes on the market.

However, if homeowners need to make more extensive changes in order to love their home for a while longer, they should consider the pros and cons of doing so. Although buyers prefer updated move-in ready homes, some sellers find that after they remodel the kitchen or baths the rest of the house looks even more dated. With the cost of labor and materials up significantly in the past few years, doing a whole house remodel could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars that may not be fully recouped when the property sells. Furthermore, some design decisions will not appeal to all potential buyers.

The good news is that the Mercer Island market has historically performed above average throughout ups and downs. An experienced real estate professional is able to help determine what upgrades today will pay off tomorrow.

A free house preparation checklist at can be downloaded at: www. maryleehouseprepchecklist.com.

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

21

For Every Facet of Elegant Outdoor Living Spaces

When it comes to landscape remodeling, you have a variety of options. However, when it comes to professional service, high-quality work, you need only turn to Lifestyle Landscapes. We offer a variety of services including outdoor living space designs, paved patios, retaining walls, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and more. Our customer service is unparalleled; we treat every customer as if they’re part of our family.

So let’s design your dream landscaping project together.

Start With a Professional Consultation

Contact Us at 206-621-2626 or info@lifestyle-landscapes.com

www.lifestyle-landscapes.com 10740 Myers Way S Seattle, Washington 98168

GET INSPIRED

S TAY W E L L

EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL

YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N FOR LOCAL LIVING

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

23

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYDIA BREWER AND KIM PRESTON

The Hidden Gem of Pioneer Square GRAY SKY GALLERY A CONTEMPORARY HUB FOR ARTISTS AND ART LOVERS The hidden gem of Pioneer Square is the Historic Art District of Seattle. From Mercer Island, it took me less than 15 minutes to get to my destination.

On a Friday afternoon, I easily found parking less than a block away and sauntered into a spacious, warm, and inviting space. Established in 2015, Gray Sky Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located at 320 1st Ave S. This inviting 2500 sq ft space displays art among soaring ceilings and across three levels. The multi-level space is reminiscent of the world’s finest museums and is an elegant framework. You feel it the moment you walk in.

Laura Van Horne is the founder and owner of Gray Sky Gallery. Laura is a mixed-media artist who works in encaustic, acrylic mixed media, ink, resin, and collage. She was born in Winnipeg and moved to Seattle in 1994, where he studied at the Pratt Fine Art Center. Laura is represented by SAM Gallery, and Third and Wall Art Group in Seattle, as well as Summit Gallery in Park City, UT. CONTINUED >

24

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

Laura at work

"I wa nt c l i e nt s t o be h a p py. Th e y ca n t r y it out! Unt i l you s ee it on th e wa l l , you d on’ t rea l ly k n ow if you’re goi ng t o l ove it .

An d I wa nt c l i e nt s t o l ove wh a t th e y ow n ."

L a u ra Va n Hor n e

Gray Sky Gallery at 320 1st Ave S

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

25

As you take in all the wonders on the wall s, you will notice that most of the artwork is c reated by other artists . The galler y displays the diverse works of over 30 talented local artists working in a variet y of medium s such a s ac r ylic, oil , encaustic, resin , mixed media , wood , ceramics, wire and blown gla ss .

Second Tier of Gray Sky Gallery

Laura Van Horne Headshot Photo by Kim Preston Photography

26

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

The top level and back of Gray Sky is her studio. In this modest-sized space, genius gives birth to creations that grace the walls of many Mercer Islanders. If you visit, you will notice a small kitchen and the creator’s table surrounded by all the accouterments that Laura needs for her creations. Here is where you witness the essence of mixed media.

Watching her work from a blank canvas or a canvas modified by vintage photos and matchbook covers is a unique experience.

Laura is a fine artist and lifelong creative.

Yet, her imagination and craft are only rivaled by her undeniable support of her fellow artists and her clients.

As you take in all the wonders on the walls, you will notice that most of the artwork is created by other artists. The gallery displays the diverse works of over 30 talented local artists working in a variety of mediums such as acrylic, oil, encaustic, resin, mixed media, wood, ceramics, wire and blown glass. Laura wants her peers to succeed and that means allowing marketing flexibility. They can sell their artwork anyplace.

“I know what it’s like. I’m an artist.”

Laura is also the epitome of customer success. In a world of auctions, galleries, and lots of money, Laura strives to deliver value to her clients. Value is very comprehensive to Laura. She isn’t focused on money, she’s focused on the love of art. i.e., clients loving the art they find at Gray Sky Gallery. Clients love her and many describe a visit to Gray Sky as a one-stop shop.

“I want clients to be happy. They can try it out! Until you see it on the wall, you don’t really know if you’re going to love it. And I want clients to love what they own. If they don’t love it, I just tell them to bring it back.”

Hearing this cast a warm feeling and made me look back on the way I have purchased art in the past. I could only think, “I wish I met Laura a long time ago.”

Ground Floor of Gray Sky Gallery MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

27

Kosher Creations ARTICLE BY OLIVIA TIPTON (INSTAGRAM @_TABLE_CULINARY) PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK TORRES (INSTAGRAM @NICKTORRES_ALACARTE)

Thanks to Nick Torres for the photography and food styling!

Moroccan Spiced Salmon Serves: 4 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Total time: 45 minutes

ingredients

Mediteranean-inspired, kosher-friendly meal

A Mediteranean-inspired, kosher-friendly that meal everyone can love Hello Mercer Island! Olivia here, your local private chef. For this issue, the magazine tasked me with creating kosher-friendly recipes. I did it the best way I know how, through the flavors of the Mediterranean. This exploration of kosher eating led me toward natural dairy and meat-free dishes. I love these recipes because, regardless of your dietary needs, anyone can enjoy them all year round. Check my Instagram account @_table_culinary for related video content!

28

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

• 4 - 6 oz filets salmon, skin removed • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced • 1 white onion, thinly sliced • 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped • 1 preserved lemon, flesh removed and rind finely chopped • 2 tablespoons tomato paste • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 1 teaspoon chili powder • 1 ½ teaspoons paprika • 14 oz can diced tomatoes • 1 cup water • 1 tablespoon honey • Salt to taste • ½ cup pitted green olives • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Moroccan Spiced Salmon

directions Lightly season the salmon with salt and set aside.

In a large skillet, add the olive oil along with the bell peppers and onion. Season with salt and sauté over medium-high heat until the vegetables are soft and begin to caramelize around the edges.

Add in the garlic, lemon, tomato paste and all of the spices. Toss with the vegetables and heat until fragrant, about a minute.

Pour in the water, diced tomatoes, and honey, mix thoroughly to form the sauce.

Bring to a simmer and nestle the salmon into the saucy vegetables, making sure that it is mostly submerged.

Turn the heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until the fish is just firm when pressed. Remove from the heat, garnish cilantro and serve with olives.

CONTINUED > MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

29

Makes: about 4 cups Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Total time: 30 minutes ingredients • 1 ¾ pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 8ths • 5 cloves garlic, smashed and divided • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil • 1 sprig fresh rosemary • 1 sprig fresh thyme

directions In a medium pot, add the potatoes, 3 cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, and enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch.

Bring to a boil over medium high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork tender.

Meanwhile, add the olive oil to a small saucepan along with the remaining 2 cloves of garlic and fresh herb sprigs. Place over medium heat and cook until the garlic just begins to bubble.

Turn the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes. You want the aromatics to infuse the oil, but not cook and become brown.

Turn off the heat and set aside until ready to use.

Once cooked, strain the potatoes, reserving their cooking water, and place in a bowl.

Use a potato ricer or masher to gently mash the potatoes. Pour in the olive oil using a fine mesh strainer to keep out the aromatics.

Fold in the olive oil, adjust the consistency with cooking liquid as needed, and season to taste.

Garnish with the garlic and olive used in the infusion.

30

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Garlicky Olive Oil Mashed Potatoes

Makes: 7 cups Prep time: 30 minutes ingredients • 2 cups cooked tri-colored quinoa • 2 ½ cups English cucumber, small dice • 2 cups tomatoes, small diced • ¾ cup green onions, thinly sliced • 2 cups parsley, finely chopped • ¾ cup fresh mint, finely chopped • The zest of one lemon • 1-1-2 Dressing • ¼ cup lemon juice • ¼ cup honey • 1 ½ teaspoons salt • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil • Pepper to taste

directions In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients. Toss to combine.

In a medium jar with a lid, add the lemon juice, honey, and salt.

Mix until the honey and salt have dissolved. Add in the olive oil and pepper, then cap and shake vigorously to emulsify.

When ready to serve, pour half a cup of the dressing over the salad. Mix well, taste and adjust the seasoning, and serve cold.

Quinoa Tabbouleh with 1-1-2 Dressing

what's for dinner, mercer island?

PIKE PLACE 1926 Pike Place Seattle

MERCER ISLAND 7635 SE 27th Street Mercer Island

MEDINA Coming in March to The Green Store!

DELIVERY @kitchenandmarket kitchenandmarket.com

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

31

MARCH 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

MAR CH 3 R D

5 Chamber Networking Breakfast

UNIVERSITY HOUSE ISSAQUAH 22975 SE BLACK NUGGET RD ISSAQUAH, WA 98029 | 7:30 AM Join Mercer Island, Issaquah, SnoVally, Newcastle, and Sammamish Chambers for the first 5 Chamber Networking Breakfast of 2023.

Lightening fast networking, breakfast and new connections.

MAR CH 6TH-13TH

Taste Washington

VA R I O US LO CAT I O NS .

Taste Washington is the nation’s largest single-region wine and food festival including many ways for you

to discover and celebrate our beautiful state. See tastewashington.org for details. The Grand Tasting on March 11 & 12 will feature 200+ wineries and 50+ restaurants! Be sure to check out the lineup of Signature Events where unique experiences around wine and food will be created. Cheers!

MAR CH 28TH

Fine Arts Showcase Visual Arts

ME R C E R I S L A ND H I G H SC HOOL | 5 :0 0 P M Please come to see your emerging local artistic talent. The Fine Arts Showcase is a Two-night district wide celebration of fine arts. The fun begins on Tuesday, March 28th with an array of visual arts and final performances on Wednesday, March 29th.

CONTINUED >

32

EVE N TS

Recently Closed on Mercer Island

Let me help you find your dream home, too!

Personalized, full-service, uncompromising care.

(206) 949-2792 kbedard@johnlscott.com

Kristin Bedard Real Estate John L. Scott Mercer Island

I F YO U A R E READING THIS...

S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH MERcER ISlAnD cITy lIfESTylE™ LEARN MORE AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MERCERISLANd

MAR CH 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ME R C E R I S L A N D

33

EVENTS CONTINUED

SMILES NEVER GET OLD.

MAR CH 29 TH

Fine Arts Showcase Performing Arts

ME R C E R I S L A ND H I G H SC HOOL | 5 :0 0 P M Please come to see your emerging local artistic talent. The Fine Arts Showcase is a Two-night district wide celebration of fine arts. The fun begins on Tuesday, March 28th with an array of visual arts and final performances on Wednesday, March 29th.

MAR CH 3 1ST

Shen Yun Performing Arts

MA R I O N O L I V E R MC CAW HA L L | 321 ME R C E R ST | S E ATT L E C E NT E R CA MP US | 7 :30 P M Shen Yun is a brilliant artistic revival and celebration of China's rich cultural heritage. Shen Yun's works convey the extraordinary depth and breadth of genuine Chinese culture, and bring the magnificence of five thousand years of civilization back to life on sage. Opening Performance that will run until April 9, 2023. Tickets can be purchased at shenyun.com .

VISIT US TODAY!

7445 SE 24th Street Mercer Island, WA 98040 206-800-8670 aegisliving.com

34

EVE N TS

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/MercerIsland

Elevate where life happens so you can discover the Art of Living.

Design is more than what is pretty and beautiful— It’s also about the ways the mood, feeling and function merge within our home, affecting our happiness and well-being.

(206) 501-4448 | amy@artaladesigns.com | artaladesigns.com | V @artala.designs