HISTORIC ELEGANCE REVIVED: A MODERN MAKEOVER FOR AN 1820S FARMHOUSE
RESORT-STYLE LIVING IN YOUR BACKYARD: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BACKYARD POOLS: COMPACT, STYLISH, AND HASSLE-FREE
A READER'S PARADISE: CLOSETS BY DESIGN TURNS A LOFT INTO A COZY LIBRARY MARCH 2025
We Make It A Stay to Remember
Nestled in a patch of serene paradise, just a heartbeat away from the hustle of the city, lies the perfect retreat – The Timbrook Guesthouse. Small, friendly, and the perfect location. Experience The Timbrook Guesthouse on Olentangy River Road, your exceptional guest lodging choice in Columbus. Call (614) 634-2166 or visit timbrookguesthouse.com for bespoke booking options.
Home & Design: A Year of Inspiration
This issue marks our one-year anniversary! I want to take a moment to thank our readers and partners for being part of the journey. I am so grateful to have met so many of you and am so proud to live and work in this community. Each day I continue to be amazed by your stories.
As the days grow longer and the first hints of spring begin to emerge, our thoughts naturally turn to the spaces we call home. March, with its promise of renewal and fresh beginnings, is the perfect time to reflect on the places where we live, love, and create memories. This month, our theme is Home and Design, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this issue with you.
Home is more than just a physical space; it’s a sanctuary where we find comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging. It’s where we gather with loved ones, celebrate milestones, and find solace in the quiet moments.
For me, home has always been a canvas for self-expression and creativity. When Bryan and I combined our households, it was important to blend his tastes with the home I had already made my own. Over time, we’ve poured our hearts into every corner, creating a harmonious blend of our styles. From the cozy reading nook by the window to the vibrant artwork we’ve collected, our home now reflects both of us. It’s become a true respite, showcasing our combined journey and shared memories.
In this issue of Northwest Columbus City Lifestyle, we’re celebrating the art of home and design. We’ll explore inspiring interiors, stunning exteriors, thoughtful and purposeful design, as well as practical tips to help you create a space that truly feels like your own. Whether you’re embarking on a major renovation or simply looking to refresh a room, our goal is to provide you with the inspiration and tools you need to make your home a reflection of your unique style and personality.
Here’s to creating spaces that inspire, comfort, and bring us closer to the ones we love. Wishing you a wonderful journey of discovery and transformation this March. Here’s to many more years of love, creativity, and shared adventures.
Warmest regards,
LISA FEDERICO, PUBLISHER
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Lisa Federico | lisa.federico@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Ashley Alt | ashley.alt@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Madison Moroi | madison.moroi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Labaki, Brice Bunner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Mariia Chystiakova
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The staff from Oasis Face Bar enjoys a candle-crafting session at Worthington Candle Works. 2: Victoria Hutta Orthodontics celebrates their one-year anniversary. 3: Reagan David spends a chilly day out in Historic Downtown Worthington. 4: Local businesses gather and network at the Linworth Connect Meeting. 5: Shoppers peruse the aisles at the indoor Worthington Farmer's Market. 6: Dr. Dan Straka and his staff enjoy a night out together. 7: Volunteers with donations provided to the Worthington Resource Pantry in January @WORTHINGTONFARMERSMARKET
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@REAGANDAVIDD
business monthly
J.S. Brown Wins National CotY Award for Transformative Home Remodel
J.S. Brown has been honored with the 2024 National/Regional CotY award for Residential Interior $100,000 - $250,000. This award-winning remodel maximizes living spaces by removing interior walls, allowing natural light to flood in and offering stunning views of the forested backyard. The project features a full kitchen redesign for improved storage and efficiency, and a family room update. View the project at remodelingdoneright.nari.org.
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Open Circle Society: Networking & Neurodiversity
Open Circle Society is hosting a networking event for neurodivergent individuals and those who feel shy about networking. The event, on April 3 from 6-8 pm at the Boundless campus, aims to create a safe, inclusive space for mingling and learning. Attendees can enjoy games, breakaway rooms for quiet, and food and drinks. This initiative, led by local business professionals of the Boundless Open Circle Society, supports their mission of fostering inclusive professional engagement. iamboundless.org
Central Ohio Muttessori School Expands to Two Locations
Tiffany Copley, founder of Central Ohio Muttessori School in Worthington, is celebrating the business's fifth anniversary by expanding into a second building just across the street from their location at 6540 Proprietors Road. The dog school emphasizes positive training methods and offers group and private training sessions, as well as a structured Dog Day School. The expansion will double their capacity and add more trainers, maintaining their high expertise level.
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HISTORIC ELEGANCE REVIVED
ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CUA BUILDERS
For most of us, a house will be the largest, single investment we ever make. Despite this, it’s rare to see a home passed down to the next generation. But for the farmhouse on Busey Road in Pickerington, it’s a different story. The blue building stands as a classic house that has withstood the test of time for the home's current owners.
“You shouldn’t be able to tell where the original house and renovation work stops and starts."
To keep the living spaces relevant for modern occupants, the house has undergone periodic renovations every 50 years. For perspective, this house was built 100 years before the first air conditioner, so many times the updates were necessary—if nothing else, for improving the home's energy efficiency.
The most recent round of renovations, performed by CUA Builders, in conjunction with interior designer Anne Rogers of Anne Rogers Interiors, brings the best of what technology has to offer while still giving careful attention to historic finishes. Removing dead walls and raising low ceilings is a common method of improving older homes, built in a time when heating and cooling was done with coal and cross breezes. To that end, the interior was given a breath of fresh air—literally—in places like the stairwell and kitchen, making the space feel more modern without losing the original builder’s intent.
Removing things can also provide a dramatic change with minimal effort. An example of this is where the
original rear wall of the house was exposed in one of the bedrooms, giving a cozy treatment that serves as a focal point for the space. But it’s not just subtraction that matters. When the CUA team discovered old fence wood in the barn, “we planed it, finished it, and used it to cover those mudroom walls," says Tom Cua, owner of CUA Builders. And the result is a treat for anyone who enters the house that way.
Whether subtracting or adding, Tom used every one of his tried-and-true methods to keep the character of the farmhouse, inside and out. “You shouldn’t be able to tell where the original house and renovation work stops and starts," says Tom. “To accomplish this on the interior, you want to use the same architectural profiles as the existing door style, casing, baseboard, crown molding, chair rail, etc.”
Tom’s company ordered custom knives and tools to be able to accommodate this kind of attention to detail. New windows were added in several places,
which posed another obstacle that Tom and his team were ready for. He explains: “The windows on the original home are called true divided light.”
This means the glass is single pane and divided into each section. “The new windows,” Tom says, “are simulated divided light; double pane insulated glass separated by grids on the inside and outside of the window to look like individual panes.” With this kind of technology, this home can keep its farmhouse charm without high energy bills.
On the exterior, a fully restored wrap-around porch keeps the old-world charm the home was known for. “It was completely renovated with new decking, columns, bead board ceiling and a standing seem metal roof," Tom says. “The latter was used for the low-pitched porch roof to help shed the snow load in the winter.”
The stories Tom has about this home could write dozens of articles, but the real story is how well the build team preserved the character of a home built nearly 200 years ago. As far as investments go, that’s a fantastic return for the homeowners. And with CUA Builders at the helm, the character and charm should last another 100 years.
Resort-Style Living in
ARTICLE BY LISA FEDERICO
"Today's pools are designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind."
Imagine transforming your backyard into a resort-like oasis that offers luxurious relaxation all year long with minimal maintenance. Thanks to innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, modern pools make this dream a reality. We spoke with Jim Moore of Moore Brothers Pools to get the inside scoop on how pools have evolved and what you need to know to select the right pool for your space.
SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS
Gone are the days when a pool required a massive backyard. Today, pools can be customized to fit virtually any space. Whether you have room for an in-ground spa or pool that accommodates fourfive people or a larger 20x40 ft pool, there are options available to suit your needs.
One of the most popular trends is the plunge pool, a compact pool that offers all the benefits of a traditional pool, but in a smaller, sleeker footprint. These pools are perfect for smaller yards, providing a refreshing escape without overwhelming your outdoor space.
FIBERGLASS AND OTHER NEW INNOVATIONS
When it comes to pool materials, fiberglass and liner systems are two of the most common options. Fiberglass pools are gaining popularity and are particularly advantageous if you have canine swimmers. “If you go with a liner, we can custom create a pool in any shape you want," Jim says. "Fiberglass pools, however, come in many shapes and sizes that must be delivered from the factory. Because they have to be transported, fiberglass pools must be less than 16 ft wide."
One of the most significant changes in the pool industry is the reduction in maintenance time, Jim explains. Auto vacuums have revolutionized pool care, allowing you to drop in a robot that cleans the pool for you. According to Jim, his customers spend just 10-20 minutes per week dropping in the robot, checking mechanicals and adjusting chemicals.
In addition, most modern pools utilize salt systems today instead of chlorine, require less maintenance, and provide excellent water quality.
SAFER THAN EVER
A noteworthy advancement in pool technology is the introduction of auto covers. These pool covers not only make pools safer by acting as a security barrier to prevent accidental falls, but also make them tamper-resistant, involving a secure anchoring system and special installation. Plus, they come with a lock box so you never have to worry about kids getting in your pool when you’re away. In some municipalities, installing an auto cover can even eliminate the need for fencing around your pool, simplifying the installation process and reducing cost.
On that thought, when planning the area around your pool, it is essential to choose the right materials for hardscaping, whether you're designing for patios, walkways or retaining walls. Jim cautions that it’s best to avoid marble or stamped concrete around your water area, as these can be slippery when wet. Instead, he suggests to opt for textured pavers, stone or broomed concrete, which all provide better traction and are safer for poolside use.
CONTINUED >
With modern innovations and low-maintenance solutions, owning a pool is no longer a high-maintenance luxury.
“ ”
A plunge pool allows for ultimate relaxation.
RESORT STYLE RELAXATION, DAY OR NIGHT
Today's pools are designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, ensuring your pool is an exquisite sight. Sun ledges and in-pool benches are trending features that enhance the pool experience. Shallow pools, typically ranging from three-and-a-half to five ft in depth, are the most common, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers of all ages, creating a sleek and modern look.
Water features such as fountains, fire bowls and Pentair Luminars (which allow you to adjust the lighting of fountains), are also popular. These features not only add visual appeal but also create a relaxing ambiance, transforming your pool area into a personal oasis.
THE IMPORTANCE OF A QUALITY INSTALL
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when investing in a pool is not thoroughly researching
their installer. Look for companies with strong reviews, Better Business Bureau accreditation and positive customer testimonials. According to Jim, most pool repair jobs are caused by improper install, which can lead to significant headaches.
Moore Brothers Pools offers a comprehensive, turnkey service that handles every aspect of the pool installation process. From pulling permits and handling trucking to installation, fencing, landscaping, and even hauling water to fill your pool, they take care of it all.
Overall, the pool industry has come a long way, making it easier than ever to enjoy a pool regardless of your space constraints. With modern innovations and low-maintenance solutions, owning a pool is no longer a high-maintenance luxury. By choosing the right materials, features and installer, you can create a beautiful, functional, and easy-to-maintain pool that enhances your outdoor living space.
Sun ledges and in-pool benches are trending features that enhance the pool experience.
A Reader's Paradise
Closets by Design Turns a Loft into a Cozy Library
Geoff and Theresa Weedon decided to settle in and make Columbus the place they call home after residing in various places around the country, including a sprinter van for two and a half years during the pandemic, in which they slept, ate, got dressed and worked in—hitting all 50 states and visiting 61 national parks in the process. When the newly engaged couple built their home, their first, in Hilliard in spring 2024, it’s fair to say they wanted organized space for everything, which included their closets.
“We were so excited to be homeowners for the first time,” Geoff says. “The way [the home] was originally set up, though, wasn’t going to be useful or productive, so we had to make some changes.”
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT |
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
MARIIA CHYSTIAKOVA
Needing their primary bedroom, main guest room, second guest room and both office closets redone, the couple also wanted to turn their open loft space upstairs into a library. “This was a totally plain area that other homes [in their neighborhood] turned into a living room,” Theresa says of the space. “But we are really big readers and wanted to make that space relaxing and welcoming," which included two of their favorite things: board games and books.
The couple wanted to transform that extra space into a “dark, moody, intentional spot” to unwind from the day. “We wanted a place to disconnect that wasn’t the main living room,” Geoff says. “Board games are a big part of our relationship and our grounding, so that was a priority,” Theresa adds. “We wanted it to feel well-loved and well-lived-in from the start,” which meant they needed trustworthy experts to get the job done.
Closets by Design Columbus, who specializes in custom-designed closets and home storage solutions, was a natural and perfect fit to adhere to the couple’s design and functional living needs. And according to Geoff and Theresa, the team more than delivered.
CONTINUED >
“Our primary bedroom closet was number one for us,” the couple says. “When we moved in, it wasn’t functional, and we knew with the amount of clothes and shoes (and Geoff’s hat collection) that we were going to need additional shelving right away.”
Originally, all closets were an open space with one wire shelf, not ideal for anyone and their belongings, especially for a couple like Geoff and Theresa who covet books, board games and souvenirs from their travels together.
Given how much time the couple spends at home (both Geoff and Theresa work from home), the redesigns were necessary. One of Closets by Design’s lead designers, Laurie, came out to the couple’s home to show them sketches of how their closet remodels and library buildout would look. Once they decided on the framing, wood tiers and colors, contractors came and did the work, and that was that.
“They were consistently ahead of their timeline, start to finish,” Theresa says of the design and build team. “They were also very accommodating to adjustments we wanted to make along the way. "Considering our budget and realizing we had more wiggle room with design was so helpful as well," Theresa adds.
“We really are so happy with the whole process,” Geoff says of working with Closets by Design. “They made everything seamless, coming out and measuring the buildouts that were really tight to the ceiling
and being so efficient with everything. One of the contractors actually ended up shoveling snow off our driveway. It was a really pleasant, solid experience of having people in our home.”
In addition to closets, Closets by Design designs, builds and installs custom garage cabinets, kitchen pantries, buildouts around Murphy Beds and more. More information can be found on their website at closetsbydesign.com and their IG page at @closetsbydesign
Geoff and Theresa Weedon
TONE + TEXTURE
STYLE YOUR HOME IN TONES AND TEXTURES WITH DESIGN HELP FROM HOUZZ INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS
ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
WOVEN + KNOTTED
LIVING BOHO-CHIC WITH WOVEN TEXTURES AND MACRAMÉ
Decorate your space with handmade textures such as the modern, maker revival of 1970s macramé and year-round tropical feel of wicker. MACRAMÉ Made through knotting instead of weaving, macramé can add a unique touch in many various ways. Houzz contributor Laura Gaskill suggests incorporating it as nursery decor, plant hangers, wall hangings and modern fiber arts. WICKER According to Houzz contributor Yanic Simard, “the best way to really embrace the luxury-cottage appeal of wicker and rattan is to combine different forms of the two in one space... Look for other unexpected places to add a natural twist to your home with a new material woven into your palette.”
AGAINST THE GRAIN
TIPS FOR DECORATING WITH NATURAL MATERIALS
Houzz contributor Katie Treggiden offers many ways to incorporate natural materials and natural-state timber into your home, including using wood to cover one wall in a home for a pleasing accent wall; featuring your firewood as a striking, stacked display; and mixing different types of wood and different finishes in the same space. “A simple way to incorporate the wood trend is to expose structural wooden beams already present in your home,” Katie says. “Instead of painting them or boxing them in, leave them raw or give them a coat of wax to enrich the tones.”
Tap your heels three times and follow the yellow brick road to the MAC for Arts Enchanted Evening. There’s no place like this Oz-themed showcase of MAC’s stunning facilities and arts offerings, which will include performances of songs from the Wizard of Oz and The Wiz by vocalist Sydney McSweeney and pianist Lucas Holmes. Tickets $175 at mcconnelarts.org.
MARCH 15TH
Shamrocks & Shenanigans
Camp Mary Orton: 7925 N. High St., Columbus, OH | 6:00 PM
Grab your favorite green garb and join the Worthington Resource Pantry for a night of fun and games at Shamrocks & Shenanigans! Your ticket includes a wide variety of delicious food and drink and live entertainment, with all money raised going toward funding the pantry’s mission to fight hunger in our community. Tickets $100 at worthingtonresourcepantry.org.
APRIL 3RD
Open Circle
Society: Networking & Neurodivergency
I Am Boundless: 445 East Dublin Granville Rd., Worthington, OH | 6:00 PM
If the thought of networking makes you nauseous, Boundless has you covered. Networking & Neurodivergency is a safe, welcoming space for the shy or neurodivergent businessperson who wants to connect with other businesses in a comfortable way. The event will feature chances to network along with snacks and games for engagement.
Timeless Trustworthy
Reimagine your bathroom with timeless design and a service experience you can rely on. From elegant tilework to premium fixtures, we bring expertise and attention to every step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. From concept to completion, we handle everything—except picking your favorite bath salts.
