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Style LO C A L S E RV I C E S

ST YLE IS PU RPOSE SHOPPING

ST YLE IS LEGACY S T Y LE + B E AUT Y

ST YLE IS M A STERY HOME + DESIGN

ST YLE IS PERSO NAL S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

September 2026

Style

PUBLISHER

Cole Spitler | cole.spitler@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Jill Heilman | jill.heilman@citylifestyle.com

Style is more than what we wear. It’s the first thing we notice and the last thing we can fully explain. A well-cut jacket, a piece of jewelry, a room that feels exactly right; we respond to these things instantly, but what we’re really responding to isn’t the object. It’s the intention behind it. Style is the sum of the choices people make and the reasons they make them. This issue is about those choices and the people making them right here in our community. Style is purpose. A beloved annual shopping tradition proves that fashion can do more than refresh a wardrobe; it brings people together in support of something greater. Style is legacy. For more than four decades, the Diny family has helped generations mark life’s biggest moments with craftsmanship built to last a lifetime. Style is mastery. In competitive grooming, perfection is measured one detail at a time. Meet Lis Johnston, whose dedication has earned recognition far beyond our community. Style is personal. The places we live should reflect the people inside them. See how thoughtful design turns a house into a home. What connects these stories is intention. The pieces we choose, the spaces we build, the work we commit to; none of it is accidental. Each one says something about who we are and what we care about. This community has no shortage of style, and it’s a privilege to spend a few pages sharing what we’ve noticed.

P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Alexis Venter | alexis.venter@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jill Heilman C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Ashley Hicks Media Co, Jill Heilman

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson

COLE SPITLER, PUBLISHER @MIDDLETONCITYLIFESTYLE

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Middleton City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Middleton area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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

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 Middleton City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

10 Featured

14 24

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Four Decades of Generational Style

Second-Generation Siblings Pair Approachable Luxury with ValueRetaining Quality, Ensuring Your Style Goes Down in History

Design Create Actuate Your Space

Home Improvement Set in Motion: Full-scale Remodels to Custom Renovations

Consciously Curated Cabinetry with Curran Connection Point Between Homeowners and Local Amish Woodworkers, Pairing Modern Design Services with Handcrafted Tradition

On the Cover Completed project by Curran Cabinetry & Design

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Must See SHOPPING

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

How To HOME + DESIGN

Our Town LOCAL SERVICES

House Call HOME + DESIGN

Inspired By HOME + DESIGN

Realty Report REAL ESTATE

Local Limelight STYLE + BEAUTY

Events

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1 – 7: Middleton Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Event “Bogey Boogie” Photography by Middleton Chamber of Commerce

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SECOND-GENERATION SIBLINGS PAIR APPROACHABLE LUXURY WITH VALUE-RETAINING QUALITY, ENSURING YOUR STYLE GOES DOWN IN HISTORY

What is jewelry? The purest form of style derived from the beginning of time, crafted with quality designed to stand the test of time. It’s pieces that make you feel like the most put-together version of yourself. The stack of rings that catch the light while you’re driving, the signature studs you wear, well, everywhere, and the heirloom piece that instantly sparks a conversation. Fine jewelry isn’t just glamour; it is self-expression in the form of a lasting investment. It is present for life’s big moments, encapsulates our best memories, and lets us wear our personality on our sleeve, from one outfit to the next. For forty-three years, Diny’s Jewelers has embodied a recognition for quality and an appreciation for intentional expression.

M UST SE E | S HO P P I NG

ARTICLE BY JILL HEILMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HICKS MEDIA CO

FOUR DECADES OF GENERATIONAL STYLE

In 1983, Pete Diny and his wife decided to pursue their interest in fine gems, which led them to Darlington, WI, where they opened Diny’s Jewelers. They quickly established a reputation for quality craftsmanship and expanded the business to Stoughton, then to Hilldale, and eventually secured permanent ground in downtown Middleton back in 2003. Today, siblings Sara Diny Alexander and Nick Diny run the business as second-generation co-owners. Though each initially pursued separate educational paths, both were naturally drawn back to the radiant world of jewelry. Together, they bring a lively, complementary dynamic to the showroom. Sara, with a background in psychology and customer service, can read a room and understand your style preferences in no time. She steers client relationships and curates an ever-changing inventory with a fashion-forward eye. “Our mom always said we don’t sell jewelry, we sell emotions,” Sara recalls, noting that every piece will eventually hold deep sentimental value. For her, it’s the gratification of pinpointing a piece that immediately sparks a connective joy in someone.

Nick has a background in diesel industrial mechanics, making him ultra-aware of structural durability. He focuses on the technical integrity of every design and is always down for a custom modification. “We are second generation,” Nick notes. “If I make a piece that isn’t built properly, it’s going to haunt us. We make sure the ring is built structurally strong from the start.” For him, it’s the assurance that every piece is engineered to last, maintaining the trust-built relationships of return customers. Their father, Pete, a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Graduate Gemologist (GG) who earned his elite Master Graduate Gemologist (M.G.G.) title through the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO), brings the industry’s top credentials to appraisals. Though officially retired, he remains an active presence at the store, ensuring every evaluation is grounded in rocksolid expertise. That expert guidance extends directly into how clients invest in materials. While lab-grown diamonds offer volume for less, they lack long-term market stability and intrinsic rarity. Diny’s leans into natural stones because they retain tangible value over time, so much so that they offer clients the original purchase price of their diamond if they ever wish to trade up or rework their piece later in life. The way people express their personal style through jewelry has evolved immensely. Trends have moved away from age-old faux pas and into a new-age expression of individuality. People mix metals freely, pair heavy vintage mountings with clean lines, and wear their fine capsule jewelry on the daily. Where couples once chose from standard three-ring sets in either plain yellow or white gold, they now seek distinct, custom-tailored designs. Elongated stone shapes like ovals, radiants, and cushion cuts CONTINUED >

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dominate current engagement styles, alongside a resurgence in luxury watches. Furthermore, fine jewelry is no longer strictly reserved for special occasion gifts. Women are buying for themselves, stacking bands, and wearing diamond studs everywhere from work to weddings to workouts. Flexing an investment that doesn’t depreciate is the epitome of girl math, and we’re here for it. When it comes to understanding what someone truly wants in a piece, Sara’s background allows her to pick up on subtle preferences, slowly decoding their personal aesthetic as she guides them around the showroom. “Everybody has a vision in their head, but not everybody is an artist,” Nick explains. “Our job is to help articulate what that vision actually is.” Translating that inner vision into a physical form requires equal parts intuition and artisan craftsmanship. For custom designs, interpreted concepts are drafted as hand sketches and then

M UST SE E | S HO P P I NG

developed into a highly detailed CAD rendering. From there, 3D resin models are printed so clients can physically inspect every angle before the ring is cast, set, and hand-finished in a swift twoto-three weeks. Reworking heirlooms follows a similarly thoughtful path. Many clients walk in with a velvet box of inherited stones set in styles they would never wear. The Diny team helps reimagine a design that feels connective and purposeful. They want nothing more than to ensure those sentimental pieces continue to hold meaningful presence in the world. The Dinys have built a space where a luxury experience feels completely approachable. Investing in well-crafted jewelry is basically locking in a piece of your own story that holds real value. Trends will come and go, but quality pieces that live through your daily life and get passed down for decades? That’s how your personal style goes down in history.

Jewelry Designed for You

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Design Create Actuate Your Space HOME IMPROVEMENT SET IN MOTION: FULLSCALE REMODELS TO CUSTOM RENOVATIONS

Clients can preview materials in their showroom before making selections.

ARTICLE BY JILL HEILMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

A truly stylish home doesn’t happen by chance. It happens when visual coherence, architectural adaptability, and everyday functionality work in harmony. Actuate Improvement focuses on making that balance feel effortless, blending their structural sense with design intuition so a space both serves and feels like the people living inside. As a full-service residential design-build firm, they specialize in home transformations. Their team handles whole-house remodels and comprehensive renovations of every scale, from structural interior overhauls and basement conversions to primary suite and living space upgrades. Rather than limiting their focus to a single room or a standalone feature, they step in as an expert partner for homeowners looking to reconfigure their living environment or elevate their style. Bringing that level of alignment to life requires multifaceted experience paired with structured directional drive. Owner Mark Alexander built Actuate Improvement on exactly that foundation. Before launching the company in 2016, Mark spent over fifteen years immersing himself in every corner of the residential building world. He gained extensive knowledge as a master carpenter, in structural house framing, design consulting, property restoration, and earned his real estate license. This compounded into the desire to create a business centered on authentic client care and a united company culture. With high standards as

a non-negotiable, he formed an immediate, serendipitous connection with Ryan Luedtke, who carried a strong background in trade work and operational management. Falling into a streamlined stride, they established a disciplined, communicative design-build workflow. The name itself reflects their active approach. “Actuate is a term for putting something in motion,” Mark explains. “When we talk about remodeling property, one of the things most people have issues with is actually actuating their process.” Renovating a house is daunting. That’s why having the right crew to bang the nails in your corner changes everything. Whether balancing a budget or figuring out how to work with a wonky layout, they know how to get your project moving in a way that aligns with you. To help homeowners navigate the overwhelming world of design choices, the team evaluates the home’s existing architecture, the neighborhood context, and the client’s everyday lifestyle. They move projects forward through three defined phases: Design, Create, and Actuate. The Design phase centers on directional clarity and education. Homeowners often gather endless online inspiration photos, which can lead to contradictory choices. Actuate’s design team interprets those ideas, combined with their functional needs, and translates them into a 3D rendering of their space. The precise visual allows clients to preview how colors and spatial arrangements perform together. The educational aspect of their approach simultaneously helps clients understand what is realistically possible, teaching them how different material selections and structural changes can impact both function and budget. Putting the knowledge in the homeowner’s hands empowers them to make confident decisions. The Create phase focuses on meticulous alignment before physical work begins. Here, the team handles the underlying logistics that predetermine a successful construction phase. They finalize hardware finishes, select trim profiles, inspect bearing structures, coordinate

“Actuate means to put something in motion. When remodeling property, most people struggle to actuate their process, so we do it for them.” CONTINUED >

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“Our company culture is built on a specific standard: Communication, Respect, Efficiency, Accountability, Transparency, and Excellence. CREATE. Having a crew aligned on those core values on-site every day makes all the difference for our homeowners.”

specialized trade partners, and establish complete budget transparency. This thorough preparation removes ambiguity and protects both the timeline and the client’s investment. The process culminates in the Actuate phase: the physical build. Driven by a mutual respect for craftsmanship, project managers align with field contractors to bring the plans to life. To keep everyone on the same page throughout the build, homeowners and trade partners use a specialized app to track the real-time project schedule, providing clear sightlines on who is working in the home on any given day. Aware that this phase is intrusive and inherently disrupts daily life, communication is key to making sure homeowners feel in control and in the know. Actuate’s level of organization, paired with proactive adjustments and strict quality standards, ensures smooth progression from demo day to the final walk-through reveal. Great design does not just happen by chance. It takes people who care more about doing it right than taking shortcuts. It takes a team obsessed with the details so you do not have to be. When they’re guiding the process, every decision falls into place. With Actuate in motion, the only thing left to do is kick back and enjoy the improvement.

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

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OLD WALL, NEW TRICKS ARTICLE BY PAM REID

HANG UP THE OLD WAY AND TRY A GALLERY WALL HANGING SYSTEM IN YOUR HOME.

One of my happy places is sitting in front of a museum wall gallery. I can admire art for hours, and if I’m with a friend, there’s no telling how long we’ll sit, reflect, and share our individual perspectives. If you’ve admired gallery wall displays in magazines, catalogs, or on social media and would like to create one in your home, it’s much easier than you might think.

MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED:

DESIGNING YOUR GALLERY WALL

CREATIVE ARRANGEMENTS

The first step in creating a gallery wall is planning. Start by selecting a theme or color scheme that complements your space. Themes can be as varied as black-and-white photographs, abstract paintings, or a mix of personal and artistic prints.

The arrangement of your gallery wall can follow several patterns, depending on your taste: • Linear: Artworks are hung in a straight line at eye level, creating a clean and orderly appearance. • Grid: Perfect for a collection of similarly sized frames, this layout emphasizes structure and uniformity. • Salon Style: This more traditional arrangement involves layering pieces closely together, often extending across the wall. It’s ideal for creating a rich, filled look.

• A gallery wall hanging system, which typically includes mounting rails, cables or rods, and hooks. You can find them pretty much anywhere, online or at your local home improvement store. • A collection of frames and artwork. • A level, measuring tape, and perhaps a laser pointer for precision.

INSTALL ATION TIPS: 01 MEASURE YOUR SPACE: Carefully measure the wall space where you want to install the gallery. Consider the height and width available, keeping in mind furniture and other room features.

02 LAY IT OUT: Arrange your artwork on the floor to finalize your layout. This “dry run” is crucial to get a feel for how the pieces will interact with one another. I like to use painter’s tape to create a visual of what my display will look like on the walls.

03 INSTALL THE RAILS AND HANG YOUR ART: Following the manufacturer’s instructions, mount the rails at the top of your wall. Ensure they are level and securely attached. Attach cables or rods to the rails, then use hooks to hang your frames. The beauty of the system is that you can adjust the height and position easily.

04 BALANCE AND SYMMETRY: Step back to view your layout from different angles. Adjust the spacing and alignment as needed to achieve visual balance.

H OW TO | HO ME + DES I GN

CONTINUED >

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where style meets purpose A Beloved Tradition Where Fashion Supports Neighbors in Need Some of the best stories begin on a clothes rack. The best shopping finds are rarely the ones you planned for. Think of the jacket you almost walked past, the handbag that catches your eye from across the room, or the designer label tucked between two unexpected discoveries. That thrill has made Fashion Finds a beloved tradition for shoppers throughout the area. Part boutique, part community tradition, Fashion Finds has become one of Attic Angel Association’s signature fundraising events. Every item is carefully sorted, inspected, steamed, tagged, and attractively displayed, creating the welcoming shopping experience that has earned the sale a loyal following. For many, the fun is as much about the experience as the purchase itself. Browsing the racks often leads to unexpected conversations, shared fashion advice, and the excitement of finding something you didn’t know you were looking for. One shopper, who managed several retail stores throughout her career, offered perhaps the highest compliment of all: “The sale was well organized, easy to shop, and had good merchandise that was reasonably priced.”

ARTICLE BY ATTIC ANGEL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ATTIC ANGEL

O UR TOWN | LO CAL SERV ICE S

Attention to detail is no accident. It reflects months of preparation by volunteers determined to make every shopper’s experience a memorable one. Behind the scenes are Attic Angel’s dedicated member volunteers, known as Angels. Long before the first fashion lovers arrive, they spend months collecting donations, carefully evaluating each donation, steaming garments, organizing inventory, and arranging displays that give the sale the feel of your favorite shop. Fashion Finds began in 2004 after members of the Angel Class of 2000 contributed gently used clothing to the YMCA’s Dress for Success clothing drive. Seeing the generosity of that effort sparked an idea of their own: the Angel Wear Sale. What began as a small sale featuring quality secondhand clothing has grown into one of the association’s most anticipated annual fundraising events. As the event grew, it became the Classic Clothing Sale before evolving into today’s Fashion Finds. More than two decades later, it continues to

draw shoppers while staying true to its founding purpose. As resale shopping continues to grow, Fashion Finds features distinctive, preloved pieces alongside select new items while supporting sustainability, giving beautifully made clothing a second life. Every purchase also supports Attic Angel’s mission of serving children, families, and older adults throughout Dane County. Since 1889, the nonprofit has strengthened lives through volunteerism, advocacy, grants, and services that improve lives across generations. Fashion Finds is one of the association’s signature fundraising events, helping fund grants and programs that make a meaningful difference. Shoppers leave with more than fantastic finds. They leave knowing their purchases help neighbors throughout the greater community. For many shoppers, Fashion Finds has become an annual tradition. Among the first through the door each year is a mother-daughter duo. They gather armfuls of clothing, compare favorites, debate what to keep, return a few pieces to the rack, and head home with new additions to their wardrobes. Then they’re back again on Saturday, eager to see what half-price treasures await. Like so many returning shoppers, they’ve discovered that every year’s sale offers something different, making the tradition just as exciting today as when they first joined the line. They’re just one example of the many familiar faces who return year after year, drawn back by the joy of discovering something unexpected. More than 20 years after a handful of donated garments inspired a simple idea, Fashion Finds continues to remind us that great style never goes out of fashion, and neither does generosity. This year, Fashion Finds is being held on September 25th and 26th at the Attic Angel Association Building.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ M I D D L E TO N

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DECORATIVE HARDWARE FOR YOUR HOME CABINET KNOBS & PULLS, DOOR HARDWARE, BATH ACCESSORIES

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CONSCIOUSLY CURATED CABINETRY WITH CURRAN The Connection Point Between Homeowners and Local Amish Woodworkers, Pairing Modern Design Services with Handcrafted Tradition

ARTICLE BY JILL HEILMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILL HEILMAN & PROVIDED

H OU SE CA LL | HO M E + DE SIGN

Custom cabinetry can completely change the corresponding feel of a home, converting it from a customary space to a captivating place. When thoughtfully considered as a continuation of a home’s existing style, they work to both anchor and distinguish a room.

In 2013, Allen Curran made a calculated decision to leverage the thirty years of cabinetry trade in his back pocket when he set out to start his own business centered on complete candor and a commitment to uncompromised standards. Here in Wisconsin, we are lucky to have Amish woodworkers as our neighbors, whose values naturally aligned with what Allen wanted in a business. He knew establishing those relationships would take time but, with enough persistent passion, his industry expertise soon drove him to become the connection point our Madison community lacked, making their fully custom carpentry accessible at a price that competes with standard market options. While the Amish excel at their craft, they do not tap into the auxiliary elements integral to full-scope designs, such as countertops, hardware selections, and shop drawings. Curran Cabinetry & Design handles what the Amish see as busywork, allowing their intentionally simple lifestyle to be an asset to the whole.

Contrary to typical cabinet shops where custom modifications incur corresponding upcharges, Amish craftspeople handcraft every component individually. Constructing each cabinet to exact fractional dimensions and multi-coat finishes intended for heavy daily use, they build whatever the room requires. Having few constraints allows for more tailored design, and comparatively more value. Together with his cohort Mike Jochmann, Allen’s Interior Design team translates client visions into tailored reality. Every project begins with an in-home visit to understand a home’s existing features, take measurements, note trim details, and evaluate how the client uses the room. From there, style is set through a series of sessions. “Our process is an information-gathering interview,” Mike notes. “We figure out what problem you are trying to solve and what you aesthetically want to end up with.” They discuss how subtle changes may or may not cohesively correlate as they guide clients through CONTINUED >

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distinguishing choices. The team interprets the homeowner’s vision and develops it into a 3D model, allowing clients to virtually experience their reimagined layout before making a final commitment. Whether remodel or new-build, kitchen or entire home, the team provides comprehensive design guidance through every choice. Door frame styles establish a room’s primary character, with inset framing for a classic look, full-overlay fronts for a sleek feel, or a slender skinny-shaker profile for a subtle modern edge. Species selection defines the room’s organic texture, with cherry that absorbs rich stain pigments or quarter sawn oak to bring linear order. For painted finishes, multi-layer catalyzed coatings are built to withstand heavy daily use. From hidden storage compartments to carefully calibrated crown mouldings, everything is crafted with care to ensure your home’s style will last a long while. From initial concept creation to final coordination, The Curran Team handles every detail so homeowners can build with total confidence. Console to chair, cupboard to cravasse, their capabilities are endless. Behind closed cabinets, your cavern of curiosities awaits. For the craftsman in your corridor, contact Curran Cabinetry & Design. Despite all the Cs, they’re grade A.

Catch our November issue for an exclusive look into Curran’s relationship with Amish woodworkers in our area.

H OU SE CA LL | HO M E + DE SIGN

Allen Curran noting a distinguishing cabinetry feature in their showroom on High Point Road.

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WHEN IT MATTERS MOST.

Curran Cabinetry & Design Professionally Designed Amish Cabinetry

Custom cabinetry for your home and lifestyle, including kitchens, bathrooms, built-ins, and more

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ M I D D L E TO N

Styling your Bookcase Tips for an Organized and Aesthetic Display ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS

I NSP IR E D BY | HO ME + D E SIGN

A bookcase is often more than just a storage unit for books; it’s a focal point of a room that can enhance the overall decor and reflect personal style. Styling a bookcase can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to showcase your literary collection and curate a space that feels inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled bookcase. Styling a bookcase is a creative process that combines practicality with aesthetics. By using these tips, you can transform an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish, engaging focal point that complements your home’s decor while showcasing your personality and interests.

Step 1 Strategically Place Books on the Bookcase While Incorporating Decorative Elements. When placing books back on the shelves, think about the arrangement, vertical stacks are more traditional, horizontal stacks more modern, or both for more visual interest. Adding decorative elements such as picture frames, vases, or sculptural objects to break the monotony. Incorporating items with varying heights can create a dynamic arrangement. Use larger items like art pieces or baskets on lower shelves and smaller decorative objects higher up. Aim for a balanced look while avoiding perfect symmetry. This creates an organic flow, drawing the eye naturally across the shelf. Incorporate asymmetrical groupings for added interest, mixing textures, colors, and shapes.

Step 2 Use Color Wisely and Add Natural Elements. Color plays a role in styling a bookcase. You can opt for a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look or introduce pops of color for a more energetic vibe. If your books are of various colors, pick a few colorful decorative pieces that complement or contrast them effectively. Integrating plants or natural elements can breathe life into your bookcase. Small potted plants can add color and texture.

Step 3 Create Zones and Add Personal Touches. If your bookcase has multiple shelves, consider creating zones or themes for different sections. Infuse your personality into the bookcase through memorabilia, travel souvenirs, or personal artwork. These pieces add a storytelling dimension and make the space uniquely yours.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ M I D D L E TO N

realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N M I D D L E T O N A N D W A U N A K E E NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

B AT H S

Arboretum Village

$889,800

$884,500

99.40%

Arboretum Village

$975,000

$981,781

100.70%

Baskerville

$400,000

$412,000

103.00%

Castle Creek

$650,000

$647,500

99.62%

Centennial Heights

$499,999

$465,000

93.00%

2.5

Downtown Middleton

$799,000

$810,000

101.38%

2.5

Elderberry

$442,900

100.00%

2.5

Enchanted Valley

$874,900

$793,173

90.66%

3.5

Heritage Hills

$519,900

100.00%

Kilkenny Farms

$899,900

$900,000

100.01%

3.5

Kilkenny Farms West

$765,000

100.00%

112

Kilkenny Farms West

$2,050,875

100.00%

4.5

Meadows

$499,900

$538,350

107.69%

1.5

Middleton Hills

$775,000

$825,000

106.45%

3.5

Misty Valley

$550,000

$566,070

102.92%

2.5

Northlake

$729,000

$700,000

96.02%

2.5

Redtail Ridge

$449,500

100.00%

263

3.5

Sak's Woods

$485,000

$475,000

97.94%

Sak's Woods

$659,900

$635,000

96.23%

2.5

Savannah Village

$610,000

$624,000

102.30%

3.5

Savannah Village

$669,900

$650,000

97.03%

3.5

$500,000

100.00%

Westport

This data is a sampling of sold properties from June 2026. Source: IRES MLS system.

THE ALEXIS AND COLE TEAM

Helping Middleton and Waunakee families navigate every move with confidence. • Complimentary Home Value Analysis • Local market expertise • Personalized buying & selling strategy Local magazine publishers • Sprinkman Real Estate REPORT PROVIDED BY The Alexis and Cole Team, Sprinkman Real Estate www.sprinkmanrealestate.com (224) 725-9681

R EA LT Y R E P ORT | REAL ESTAT E

Your Premier Luxury Estate Jewelers! Low Pressure, Lower Prices, Higher Quality We have been a trusted Middleton staple since 1983, offering an exceptional selection of high-end estate jewelry, pre-owned Swiss watches, and brand-new custom pieces. Whether you're searching for something timeless or one-of-a-kind, our expert team is here to help. We also provide professional jewelry repair, certified appraisals, and investment-grade gold and silver—making us your full-service destination for quality, value, and expertise.

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6801 University Ave Ste. 130 Middleton, WI

DC Brothers Repair and Remodel Bringing the family feel to General Contracting In a world filled with lack luster intentions and selfish tendencies. Here at DC Brothers we prioritize a quality experience throughout. Problem solving in a way that prioritizes practicality, and quality. Authenticity, relatability, and transparency are just a few of the core values we hold. 6 0 8 . 2 1 7. 1 5 5 5 D C B ROTH E RS R E M O D E L .CO M

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ M I D D L E TO N

Local Pet Spa Owner Lis Johnston is Representing Team USA at the World Grooming Championships

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | STYLE + BE AU T Y

ARTICLE BY MIDDLETON CITY LIFESTYLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HICKS MEDIA CO & PROVIDED

WorldClass Style

Style is often measured in the details, and few people understand that better than Lis Johnston. As the owner of Serenity Pet Spa, Lis has shaped her career around helping dogs look and feel their absolute best. Beyond her salon, she’s earned a reputation on a much larger stage. This September, Lis will once again represent Team USA at the World Grooming Championships in Belgium, where the world’s top groomers from more than 25 countries compete in what she affectionately calls the “dog groomer Olympics.” Earning a spot on Team USA is an achievement in itself. Throughout the year, Lis travels to qualifying events nationwide, accumulating points through rigorous competition alongside the nation’s best, and only five competitors represent the United States on the world stage. Competitive grooming blends art and science. Groomers spend six to nine months preparing for a high-stakes showcase where judges inspect every

millimeter of a dog’s coat and one rogue strand out of place can instantly shatter a score and undo months of painstaking effort. Mastering that level of pressure is precisely what sets Lis apart. She has consistently maintained her rank among the country’s top competitors, and in 2021 was named the nation’s #1 Groomer of the Year. By her side is Chubby, a Scottish Terrier who has become her teammate and travel companion. Together, they’ve earned Best in Show honors, explored Paris between competitions, and are now preparing for another trip across the Atlantic. While Lis’s talents are recognized around the globe, her work remains centered right here in the Madison area. Every dog that enters her spa benefits from the same skill that earned Lis national recognition. Through hands-on mentorship and meticulous staff training, Lis ensures that every groomer across Serenity Pet Spa’s three locations delivers that same worldclass standard of care.

TRANSFORM YOUR DOG'S POTENTIAL GROUP TRAINING CLASSES Puppy • Obedience • Manners Scent Work • Agility & more! Build skills, confidence, and stronger bonds in a supportive group setting

BEHAVIOR CONSULTATIONS One-on-One Solutions for Challenging Behaviors Private sessions tailored to you and your dog’s specific needs.

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TRAIN FOR LIFE

CANVAS CLUB BOXING FIRE STATION 1 7600 UNIVERSITY AVE HARBOR ATHLETIC CLUB 2529 ALLEN BLVD MIDDLETON | 608.831.6500

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W W W . H A R B O R A T H L E T I C . C O M S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ M I D D L E TO N

SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

SE PT E M BE R 2 N D

Bacon, Bourbon & Cigars 114 E Main Street, #101, Waunakee | 6:00 PM Enjoy an elevated evening of bourbon tastings, savory bites and live entertainment during Wauktoberfest’s Bacon, Bourbon & Cigars event. Guests can sample a wide variety of bourbons, enjoy bacon-inspired appetizers, listen to live music, and relax on The Lone Girl’s rooftop. Ticket options include bourbon tastings and cigar experiences. SE PT E M BE R 4 T H

Live Music: Dr. Doug Solo Guitar Vitruvius, 7429 Elmwood Avenue, Middleton | 7:00 – 9:00 PM Spend your Saturday evening enjoying live music at Vitruvius as guitarist Dr. Doug takes the stage with a mix of acoustic favorites and expressive instrumental performances. Special guest Rosa joins the show, creating a relaxed night out where visitors can enjoy drinks, conversation, and sweet local entertainment. SE PT E M BE R 1 0 T H – 1 3TH

Wauktoberfest 802 S. Century Avenue, Waunakee Celebrate Waunakee’s German heritage during the annual Wauktoberfest, featuring live music, traditional food, local beverages and family-friendly activities. Guests can enjoy festive entertainment, unique competitions, games, and community traditions throughout the weekend. The event brings neighbors together for a fun fall celebration while supporting local charitable organizations. SE PT E M BE R 1 0 T H

Capital Brewery Bike Club Group Ride 7734 Terrace Avenue, Middleton | 5:30 PM Join fellow cycling enthusiasts for a casual group ride starting at Capital Brewery. Riders of all experience levels are invited to enjoy a scenic route, connect with the local biking community, and return to the brewery afterward for a well-earned beverage. It’s a fun way to stay active while exploring the Middleton area. SE PT E M BE R 1 2 T H

Young Eagles Flight Event 8300 Airport Road, Middleton | 9:00 AM Give young aviation enthusiasts the chance to experience the excitement of flight during the Young Eagles Rally, hosted by EAA Chapter 93. Designed for kids ages 8–17, the free event includes a brief aviation introduction followed by a short airplane ride with volunteer pilots. Space is limited; advance registration is encouraged. SE PT E M BE R 1 3T H

Kids on the Prairie 4200 County Road M, Middleton | 10:30 AM Families are invited to explore the natural beauty of Holy Wisdom Monastery during Kids on the Prairie. This free outdoor program features a guided hike, hands-on learning, and opportunities for children and adults to discover the prairie landscape together. September’s session includes collecting prairie seeds, picking apples and learning about the cider-making process.

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / M I D D L E T O N

EVE N TS

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