THE HOME EDITION
March Home & Design Issue
Home. So much contained in that little four letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.
Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.”As we thought about home - we wanted to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That of course includes the food and drinks, the aesthetic and design, but most importantly - the people.
Whether it's a first-time purchase or an upgrade, the decision to buy a home is deeply personal and often marks a significant life milestone. Home is often fueled by a blend of the realization of dreams, the start of new chapters, and the creation of lasting memories. It’s the sense of belonging, the thrill of possibility, and the comfort of having a place to truly call your own.
We feel like the lucky ones as we got to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise this city and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.
As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your city, neighborhood and most all of - your home.
Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.
Happy March!
JON GREGORY, PUBLISHER
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Jon Gregory | jon.gregory@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Matilyn Jennings | matilyn.jennings@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Matilyn Jennings, Lynn Caldwell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Now Enrolling Now Infants
Toddlers Preschool
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 3/31/25 Of fer not v alid in all r e gions
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Recent celebrations from Charlie Grey Events by local event coordinator Kellie Maxcy
WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE EVENTS | BANQUETS | PARTIES
Perhaps you’ve attended an event in the 4th floor Banquet Room, but did you know that The View has two smaller spaces sized for business events, corporate luncheons, and board meetings? And through March 31, new users get our best o er ever · Onsite eateries o ering catered breakfast and lunch packages
A wrap-around terrace or a garden patio Full AV capabilities
www.theviewatfountains.com | 1500 Medical Center Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Anniversary Ribbon Cutting for Mr. Brews Taphouse
Celebrating one year of good food and great brews. Located at 5525 Franklin Rd, Murfreesboro, TN 37128
“Have you ever had the option to choose between nearly 60 draft beers on tap at the same place you’ve enjoyed a mouthwatering gourmet burger? Mr. Brews is a signature restaurant featuring both, but we also provide for a family-friendly experience. Fantastic Burgers and Beer and the best Fried Cheese Curds.” https:// murfreesboro.mrbrewstaphouse.com/
Ribbon Cutting for CCU Tower Expansion for Ascension Saint Thomas
A ribbon cutting event was held for Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, celebrating the state-ofthe-art CCU Tower expansion.
“At Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, we will continue building a healthcare system that reflects our deep commitment to the care we have been honored to provide for more than 95 years.” www.healthcare.ascension.org
Ribbon Cutting for The Little Gym
Attendees celebrated a ribbon cutting to mark the opening of The Little Gym. Located at 2615 Medical Center Parkway, Suite 1535, Murfreesboro, TN they are dedicated to helping children learn and grow through movement and imaginative play.
Bombshell Beauty: STYLING BEYOND ORDINARY
WHAT MAKES YOUR APPROACH UNIQUE TO CARING FOR SOMEONE'S HAIR AND THEIR STYLE?
Tina Diedrick: "I focus on creating a personalized approach that matches your hair type, lifestyle, and personality. It’s about blending trends with what feels authentic to you."
Ashley Tejada: "My approach combines personalized attention and a deep understanding of both the hair’s needs and the client’s personal style."
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING A STYLIST?
Tina Diedrick: "Helping people feel confident and express themselves through their hair is incredibly rewarding. Each transformation feels like a creative collaboration."
Ashley Tejada: "Every day is different, and I love making someone’s day better with the right look."
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU SPECIALIZE IN?
Tina Diedrick: "I specialize in hair coloring, extensions, and hair toppers—enhancing natural beauty and tailoring each look to your style."
Ashley Tejada: "I specialize in balayage and lived-in, timeless color."
“Helping people feel confident and express themselves through their hair is incredibly rewarding. Each transformation feels like a creative collaboration.” - Bombshell’s stylist Tina Diedrick
“Every day is different, and I love making someone’s day better with the right look.”
- Bombshell’s stylist
Ashley Tejada
ARTICLE BY MATILYN JENNINGS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Personalized Haircare Tailored for You, Every Step of the Way
Ashley Tejada
Tina Diedrick
MeTime is licensed to care for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years old. Reservations are only needed if your child is younger than 12 months or needs more individualized care
Licensed by the Health Department offering hot meal options and snacks
M-TH: 8AM-10PM | F&S: 8AM-Midnight | Sun: Noon-9PM
metimechildcare.com 1638 Memorial Blvd | 615.603.7144
DESIGN YOUR HOME, Simplify Your Life
Practical tips for decluttering, organizing, and creating a functional, beautiful, and future-ready home.
ARTICLE BY MATILYN JENNINGS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Your home is more than just a place to live; it’s where memories are made and peace is found. By combining organizational strategies with thoughtful design, you can create a home that’s functional, beautiful, and adaptable to your evolving needs. Professional organizers like Leigh Achenbach from Suddenly Simple Organizing and interior designer Jamie Taylor from J Taylor Designs share their expertise for tackling your home’s needs—inside and out.
DECLUTTERING: START SMALL, THINK BIG
Leigh Achenbach’s Expert Tips
The idea of decluttering can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps is key. Start with a single category in one room, such as books or kitchen gadgets, and work through items systematically. “Sorting like items together and addressing practical things first will build your confidence,” Leigh explains. Focusing on items that are less sentimental helps ease the process, while tackling one category at a time ensures you stay focused and make real progress.
Decluttering is not just about getting rid of things; it’s about finding what truly adds value to your life and giving it the space it deserves. Leigh encourages her clients to think about the emotional weight of items and how decluttering can create mental clarity and peace. "When you let go of what no longer serves you, you make room for what does," she says. This mindset shift can turn a daunting task into an empowering experience. Consider starting with non-sentimental categories like paperwork or unused kitchen gadgets, as these are easier to assess objectively.
Maintaining organization over time requires consistent effort. “Regularly assess if your belongings still serve you,” Leigh advises. For spaces used less frequently, like the attic, annual decluttering might suffice. In contrast, high-traffic areas like closets may need attention multiple times a year. Labels are a game-changer for keeping the family accountable and maintaining order. When organizing small spaces, maximize unused areas. “Look for vertical space, walls, or the back of cabinet doors for storage solutions,” Leigh says. Remember to declutter first—you may discover that having less is all you need to create the space you desire. Simple changes, like adding hooks, shelves, or stackable bins, can significantly improve functionality without adding clutter. Small tweaks, when paired with consistent habits, can make a lasting difference in how your home feels and functions.
DESIGN WITH PURPOSE: AESTHETIC MEETS FUNCTION
Jamie Taylor’s Practical Advice
Balancing functionality and aesthetics is especially important in hardworking spaces like mudrooms and pantries. These areas, traditionally utilitarian, can now become design statements.
In mudrooms, consider built-in cubbies and lockers for organization, and enhance the look with cohesive cabinetry, elegant hardware, and soft-close features. Jamie recommends adding a bench with storage underneath for convenience and a touch of luxury. "The right design can make even the busiest spaces feel calm and beautiful," she notes. Adding personal touches like stylish baskets or decorative hooks can also create a welcoming vibe.
Similarly, pantries are evolving into “back kitchens,” housing not just food but also appliances like coffee makers or even extra refrigerators. Jamie emphasizes the importance of blending finishes, cabinetry, and hardware with the main kitchen to maintain a unified design. Glass cabinet doors, lighting, and stylish backsplashes can elevate a pantry from purely functional to stunning.
These design choices reflect a growing trend: treating every room as an extension of your personal style. Whether it’s a mudroom, pantry, or laundry room, thoughtful design ensures these spaces work hard without compromising on beauty.
QUICK DECLUTTERING TIPS
1. Start Small: Tackle a single drawer or shelf. Once you start, it will be easy to find other projects to take on.
2. Sort First: Group similar items to see what you have. Organizing is always a good place to start.
3. Label Everything: Labels ensure every item has a home.
“Futureproofing your home is about creating a space that evolves with you while reflecting your style.” —Jamie Taylor
FUTURE-PROOFING YOUR HOME
Planning for the future ensures your home evolves with your needs. Jamie suggests incorporating universal design principles, such as zero-threshold showers, wide doorways, and main-floor bedrooms. “These features are not only practical but also stylish,” she says. Other considerations include storm rooms for safety and flexible spaces that can adapt as families grow or priorities shift.
Material selection also plays a role in long-term maintenance. Durable options, like quartz countertops or fiber cement siding, reduce the need for frequent repairs. “Choosing high-quality, low-maintenance materials pays off in the long run,” Jamie advises. For example, quartz resists stains and scratches better than marble, while natural stone tiles age gracefully and require minimal upkeep.
Beyond materials, future-proofing involves anticipating changes in lifestyle. Jamie highlights the importance of multipurpose rooms, which can serve as home offices, guest bedrooms, or play areas as needs evolve. "Designing with flexibility in mind ensures your home stays functional and relevant," she explains.
Even outdoor spaces can benefit from future-proofing. Features like low-maintenance landscaping, durable decking materials, and covered patios create inviting, long-lasting areas for relaxation and entertainment. By making thoughtful choices today, homeowners can save time and money while enjoying a home that grows with them.
By combining organization, thoughtful design, and smart planning, you can create a home that works for you today and for years to come. Every decision, big or small, contributes to building a sanctuary that reflects your values and supports your lifestyle.
HOUSEPLANTSThe Perfect Roommate
AN INDOOR GARDEN SANCTUARY
There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment.
The ubiquitous houseplant has long been a cautious curiosity for many. Comments such as “I don’t have a green thumb,” or “I can’t keep anything alive,” have echoed through the rooms and hallways of almost every home in America. Well, it’s time to dispel all the mistruths about whether houseplants are beneficial and to lay the foundation for a little oasis of green happiness in the corner of every home!
By the way, you don’t really need a green thumb as there are plenty of hard-to-kill houseplants that can survive any level of neglect! And remember not only do houseplants look pretty, they also decrease stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and bring a sense of joy and relaxation to every room.
Houseplants make us feel better about ourselves in many ways because they allow us to care for them and we reap the rewards of that love. No one is alone when you have a houseplant, as they are our forever listeners. Yes, some people actually do talk with their houseplants all day long! There are
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE
many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Aside from reducing indoor air pollutants and increasing humidity in the home, house plants have been shown to reduce mental fatigue, accelerate the healing process, as well as improve productivity and focus.
Pothos, spider plants, lady palms, yucca, and succulents are so pretty and easy to grow. It is no wonder that we have seen a revival of indoor gardening trends. Instagram is teeming with photos of incredible indoor “living green” vignettes that show us all how clever we can be when decorating with house plants! All you really need is to a pick a place in the home that has the best light and pick your plants.
Think outside of the box when it comes to decorating with houseplants. Look for underused spaces. Use mixed and matched pots of different sizes and shapes. Turn a shelf into a plant display. Go vertical with some hanging plants or an antique ladder. You can even group some of your favorite plants together into a single large decorative pot.
Signature large plant displays anchor the most well-designed rooms in America and it’s all there for us to look at, learn from, and bring into our own home. Whether combined into a single large decorative pot or clustered together in a corner, always remember the key to any house plant décor is to have a thriller, a tall plant usually with a strong color and form; filler plants that literally will fill the pot covering all the soil; and a spiller plant that trails over the edge of the pot. Try any combination of your favorite plants or a tried and true combination of a fiddle-leaf fig, a prayer plant, and a string of pearls.
No matter how you look at it, houseplants improve our lives in many ways. Indoor gardens provide us an alternative way to commune with nature and to reconnect with the living world. We all benefit from the additional life that houseplants bring into our homes. In this crazy world of ours, wouldn’t be it nice to return home to your own personal indoor greenspace?
Happy gardening!
Spring into Home Repairs
TOP TIPS FROM MR. HANDYMAN OF MURFREESBORO
Spring is finally here, and that means it’s time to give your home some much-needed attention after the wear and tear of winter. As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect opportunity to tackle essential maintenance tasks that will keep your home in top shape. From cleaning gutters to inspecting your roof, there’s plenty to do. We sat down with the experts at Mr. Handyman of Murfreesboro to get their insights on the most important springtime home repairs and upgrades.
HOW CAN HOMEOWNERS TELL IF THEIR GUTTERS OR DOWNSPOUTS NEED REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT?
Your gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your home, preventing costly water damage. Homeowners should inspect gutters for cracks, rust, sagging sections, missing fasteners, or visible separations from the house. If you notice water overflowing, pooling near the foundation, leaking joints, or excessive debris buildup, it may be time for a repair or replacement. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to roof damage, foundation issues, and even mold problems inside your home. Cleaning your gutters in early spring and checking for damage can prevent bigger headaches later in the season.
WHAT AREAS OF THE HOME SHOULD HOMEOWNERS INSPECT FOR CRACKS OR GAPS AS THE WEATHER WARMS UP?
As temperatures fluctuate, materials in your home expand and contract, which can lead to cracks or gaps. Pay close attention to windows, doors, foundation walls, and siding for signs of damage, such as warping or shifting. Inspect caulking around windows and doors—if it’s dried out or peeling, it’s time to reapply for proper sealing. Look for foundation cracks that could allow water seepage, weaken structural integrity, and seal any gaps in siding or
brickwork to keep pests out and improve energy efficiency throughout the year.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REPAIR PEELING OR CHIPPED PAINT?
Peeling or chipped paint is not only an eyesore but can also expose surfaces to moisture damage, rot, or mildew growth. Start by scraping off loose paint with a putty knife or wire brush, then sand the area smooth to create an even surface free of imperfections. Apply a high-quality primer before repainting to ensure the new coat adheres properly and lasts longer. Choose an exterior-grade paint if working outdoors and match the finish to the surrounding area for a seamless, polished look. Regular paint maintenance helps protect your home from the elements and enhances curb appeal significantly.
WHAT TASKS SHOULD HOMEOWNERS PRIORITIZE IF THEY ONLY HAVE A WEEKEND FOR MAINTENANCE?
If you’re short on time, focus on these high-impact tasks:
• Gutter cleaning and inspection: Prevent water damage and foundation issues.
• Power washing the exterior: Refresh your siding, deck, and driveway.
• Sealing windows and doors: Improve insulation and keep pests out.
• Checking outdoor faucets and sprinklers: Look for leaks and test water pressure.
• Inspecting decks and patios: Check for loose boards, nails, or signs of rot.
• Pruning trees and shrubs: Keep branches away from your roof and siding.
• Changing HVAC filters: Improve air quality and ensure efficient system performance .Tackling these tasks over a weekend can make a big difference in your home’s maintenance and longevity.
“Spring is the perfect time to refresh, repair, and revamp your home. Whether you need small fixes or major repairs, Mr. Handyman of Murfreesboro is here to help.”
“As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect opportunity to tackle essential maintenance tasks that will keep your home in top shape. From cleaning gutters to inspecting your roof, there’s plenty to do.”
WHEN SHOULD HOMEOWNERS CONSIDER CALLING A PROFESSIONAL HANDYMAN FOR HELP?
While some maintenance tasks are DIY-friendly, certain repairs require professional expertise. Call Mr. Handyman of Murfreesboro if you:
• Notice structural damage like major cracks in walls, ceilings, or the foundation that could compromise your home’s safety.
• Have persistent leaks despite cleaning and inspecting your gutters, which might indicate underlying drainage issues.
• Need drywall repair or carpentry work beyond simple fixes or your skill level.
• Plan larger home projects like deck repair, fence installation, or exterior painting that demand experience and specialized tools.
• Want to save time, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure quality work without the hassle of DIY frustration.
Spring is the perfect time to refresh, repair, and revamp your home. Whether you need small fixes or major repairs, Mr. Handyman of Murfreesboro is here to help. Give us a call to schedule your spring maintenance service today!
Habitat
ARTICLE BY LYNN CALDWELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MURFREESBORO PARKS AND RECREATION
Finding a way to bring nature into their new world-one habitat at a time
Sweet Habitat
More than twenty–one wildlife animals call the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park their “home.” It is crucial to accurately recreate their natural habitats and provide enrichment for the animals to encourage natural behaviors.
According to Charles “Charlie” Hall-Walker, Facility Coordinator, an abundance of research is done before taking on a new animal. “We work really hard to gather all the data we can to take a look at our animal’s natural environment and how they live in each season, so we know what will make them most feel at home.”
Currently, we have everything from turtles, salamanders, and snakes to hawks and owls. One of the most popular rescues was an opossum named Hawk, which was raised by the staff and captured the hearts of many. “We love being able to teach something new to people; meeting them halfway through educating them is a win in our book,” said Charlie. It is also important to note that all the animals in the Wilderness Station care are non-releasable. They have their own story of why they are no longer able to live in the wild. For example, an injury to a wing may prevent flight in a bird of prey or the relocation of a box turtle could have left it wandering the streets of a city, rather than a forest. Whatever the
situation, these animals no longer have a choice of surviving in the wild and it is now the responsibility of the Wilderness Station to make their homes as comfortable and safe as possible. Charlie, who has been with Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation for the last three years, explained that they also rely on research from the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency and Food and Drug Administration to make the best and most viable decisions. For instance, box turtles need to dig, so it is important to create a substrate for their natural instinct to forage for their food. For the staff at the Wilderness Station, the first 90 minutes of the day is dedicated to making their space safe and feeling like home.
For more information on the Wilderness Station and its programs, please visit www. MurfreesboroParks.com.
ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR RESCUES WAS AN OPOSSUM NAMED HAWK, WHICH WAS RAISED BY THE STAFF AND CAPTURED THE HEARTS OF MANY. “WE LOVE BEING ABLE TO TEACH SOMETHING NEW TO PEOPLE; MEETING THEM HALFWAY THROUGH EDUCATING THEM IS A WIN IN OUR BOOK.”
INNOVATION MEETS
ARTISTRY
Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.
According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner.
I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”
Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.
Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.
“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments
THE HEART OF THE HOME
and advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”
Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.
“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”
Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.
“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.
Experience The Difference
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 1ST
Music Fest 2025
Puckett's Restaurant 114 N. Church St. Murfreesboro | 3:00 PM
March 1st, KST will be performing our annual Music Fest at Puckett's which will mean HUGE crowds and tons of family fun and food!
MARCH 12TH
Business After Hours
223 S Spring St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130 | 4:30 PM
The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce will hold its March Business After Hours networking event at City Tile & Floor Covering. Admission is $15 for chamber members and $25 for non-members. For more information on this and other Chamber of Commerce events and ribbon cuttings, visit rutherfordchamber.org and find Events.
MARCH 15TH
Wine & Whiskey at the Wetlands
502 SE Broad St Murfreesboro, TN | 6:00 PM
The Discovery Center at Murfree Spring’s annual museum fundraiser, Wine & Whiskey at the Wetlands, from 6–8:30 p.m. at the Discovery Center. The event will showcase a variety of fine wines and spirits with food available for purchase. Attendees must be 21 and up. All proceeds from the night will benefit the Discovery Center and its programming.
MARCH 15TH
Downtown After 5
Downtown Murfreesboro | 5:00 PM
Enjoy a beautiful evening walking through historic downtown Murfreesboro supporting small businesses and exploring the Boro Art Crawl. Find artwork, unique gifts, clothes and delicious food and drinks for a late night of shopping downtown.
MARCH 17TH
St. Patrick’s Day in the Glade
906 Ridgely Rd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 | 2:00 PM
Come join Cedar Glade Brews for all day fun with their St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Murfreesboro.
MARCH 30TH
Egg Hunt at First United Methodist Church Murfreesboro
265 W Thompson Ln Murfreesboro, TN 37129 | 10:30 AM
Join First United Methodist Church Murfreesboro for an Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30, at 10:30 a.m. with 15,000 eggs. Bring the kiddos for a day packed with joy and laughter for the free, family-friendly event. For more information, visit fumcm.org/easter
