Inspired Living Omaha

A N O M A H A W O R L D - H E R A L D P U B L I C AT I O N

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 INSPIREDLIVINGOMAHA.COM

SERVING NEBRASKA & W E S T E R N I OWA

THE

COLOR ISSUE

NEW YEAR, NEW HUES

O N E S H O W, E V E R Y T H I N G YO U N E E D T O K N O W

S U N D AY, J A N U A R Y 1 10

HE GET T

Mid-America Center . 10am-3pm

ETS TICK NE ONLI

T I C K E T S $ 1 0 I N A D VA N C E , $ 1 2 AT T H E D O O R

WEDDINGESSENTIALSMAGAZINE.COM

#BRIDALU2016

PHOTO: LEAH MARIE PHOTOGR APHY

A n O m a h a Wo r l d - H e r a l d E v e n t

2016 Windows at 2015 Year End Discounts!

Thru January 31st Only!

PLUS

No Money Down, No Interest & No Payments for 12 months! howroom

Stop by our S

Minimum purchase required. Loans provided by Enerbank USA (1245 E. Brickyard Rd. Suite 640, Salt Lake City, UT. 84601) On approved M cre credit for a limited time, repayment terms very from 12 to 132 months. 16.41% fixed APR subject to change. Interest waived if repaid in 365 days. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2012 Andersen Cor Corporation.

All rights reserved. Not available with any other offer. See store for details. Renewal by Andersen –Southard Corporation, an independently owned & operated Renewal by Andersen retailer.

Call for your FREE Window Diagnosis

WeLoveOurNewWindows.com

Showroom in Westwoodth Plaza at 125 & West Center

402-850-2233 2233

! "%$

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

VOl. 14 No. 1 Editor-in-Chief Chris Christen 402-444-1094 Chris.Christen@owh.com Creative Director/Designer Heidi Thorson 402-444-1351 hthorson@owh.com Assistant Editor Kim Carpenter 402-444-1416 kim.carpenter@owh.com Photo Imaging Specialist Patricia “Murphy� Benoit Content Contributors Erin Fairchild, Anna Harms, Kurt A. Keeler, David Kerr, Chad Lebo, Jessica Luna, Rose McCormick, Meghann Schense, Jordan Stancombe, Howard T. Swain, Jr.

#

! %

Your Images.

Beautifully displayed on Stretched Canvas.

Our Gallery Wrapped Canvas Prints are a work of art and will enhance any wall space. Select sizes from 8X10 to 40X60 inches.

Created on-site with care, ready in days.

Photography Contributors Jeffrey Bebee, Paul Crosby, Heather & Jameson, Jordan Green Productions On the Cover Photo: Jeffrey Bebee Before + After feature, page 28 Custom Publishing Ad Manager Dan Matuella 402-444-1485 dmatuella@owh.com Advertising Sales Manager Carrie Kentch 402-444-1448 Carrie.Kentch@owh.com Account Representatives Gay Liddell | 402-444-1489 | Gay.Liddell@owh.com Sofia Maravi | 402-444-1442 | Sofia.Maravi@owh.com Emily Martin | 402-444-1411 | Emily.Martin@owh.com Cathleen Vanhauer | 402-444-1209 | Cathleen.Vanhauer@owh.com

Rockbrook - 108th & Center - 397-1171 Legacy - 168th & W. Center - 691-0003 Lincoln - 70th & Pioneers - 488-4200

Events Manager Tam Webb 402-444-3125 Tam.Webb@owh.com

Shop 24/7 at rockbrookcamera.com 1314 Douglas St., Suite 600 Omaha, NE 68102 402-444-1094 Inspired Living Omaha (ISSN 23795948) is a publication of the Omaha WorldHerald. Š2016, Omaha World-Herald Co. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the publisher.

The opinions expressed by those interviewed are their own. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for content, opinions or practices, or how the information herein is used. All materials submitted, including but not limited to images, logos and text that appear, are assumed to be the original work of the provider, and the publisher is not responsible for unintentional copyright infringement.

2  JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

SAVE THE DATE JANUARY 28-31, 2016 CENTURYLINK CENTER

Win a 2016 Chevy

Colorado!

Vehicle provided by:

Follow us online!

All proceeds benefit

Nebraska

HEARTLAND CHEVY DEALERS

Questions? Visit omahaautoshow.com or contact us at 402.444.1263 inspiredlivingomaha.com 3

EDITOR'S NOTE

Presto, Change-o!

Color happy designer Jonathan Adler says that ignorance and fear are no reason to live in a bland box. “Beige is a bummer! Colorless is

Chris christen editor-in-chief

FUN FACT Most colorful shoes Chris has ever worn: Jean Stothert's strappy hot pink sandals (size 9) for a spoof of the Omaha mayor in the 2015 Omaha Press Club Show.

characterless!” Inspired by Adler’s call to “vanquish the vanilla’,’ we present: The Color Issue.

This year, take a cue from SherwinWilliams and pick up a brush and be floored – by your walls. Local interior designers spill their go-to paint colors and best advice starting on page 18.

We pump up the volume on page 20.

Stay connected between issues.

Get sneak peeks of styled shoots, bonus photos from current issues, recipe links and more. facebook.com/InspiredLivingOmaha

Assistant editor Kim Carpenter explores color theory with architect Jeff Day – who

Bluffs couple unveils a whole-house redo that left us green with envy. You'll see a bit of Jonathan Adler in their décor, page 28.

Chef Chad Lebo shares surprising improvisations in a new culinary column, The Hidden Pantry. He starts with celery, page 52.

Naturally colorful food may be the best food for you – but don't let that stop you from making macaroons, page 50.

Here’s hoping the tips and tricks within inspire you to give the color wheel an adventurous spin in 2016.

Until next time,

uses cutting-edge doses of color in his projects. “He’s my imaginary architect,” Kim told me after the interview. “I’m too old for

Be inspired by people, places and things that we  . Food, fashion & décor top the list. instagram.com/inspiredomaha

In our Before & After feature, a Council

Chris Christen editor-in-chief

imaginary friends, but one day I just might be able to hire an architect.”

Anything handmade from the heart makes a perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Find hundreds of D.I.Y. projects on our Pinterest boards. pinterest.com/inspiredomaha

Have a story idea, question or comment? Send us an email. inspired@owh.com

4 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

We take issue with any fashionista who thinks black tights should be banned. You won't catch us bare-legged in winter. Our "True Blue" Threads shoot was a "black tight affair" celebrating a favorite wardrobe staple. Girls in Black Tights (Forever). Who’s with us?

Have you discovered Do Space, the new technology library? We recently dropped in – with our coloring books and markers. We got puzzled looks but it was fun unplugging for an hour while we soaked up the color – and energy – in the creative lab.

Creative director Heidi Thorson had a personal color analysis, walked away inspired by her "wow" colors, and dyed her hair violet. Her new tresses are her current favorite accessory. No surprise – the shade is turning heads and raking in raves.

Guiding you to a rewarding home buying and selling experience.

Beautify your HOME & LIFE

FURNITURE 4922 Dodge St M-F 8am-6pm

ACCESSORIES voilaflowers.com Sat 8am-4pm

FLORALSS 402-991-1970 Sun Closed

Kim Swanson 402.968.2690 truomaha.com

Omaha’s newest boutique offers designer fashion & accessories from contemporary to classic.

Stop in & enjoy 30%-75% off your favorite designers in January!

SHOPS OF LEGACY

169 & West Center 402.991.7776 hushlaboutique.com inspiredlivingomaha.com 5

CONTRIBUTORS

Heidi THORSON

KIM CARPENTER

Carrie Kentch

FUN FACT Heidi doesn't shy away from testing trends – especially hairstyles. As a teen, she shaved her head. Because, why not?

FUN FACT Kim is a great repository for fun facts, like this one: January was named after Janus, god of beginnings & transitions.

FUN FACT Carrie is always drawn to anything in the purple color family – violet, pansy, lavender, mulberry, mauve...

CATHY VANHAUER

Jeffrey Bebee

KURT A. KEELER

FUN FACTS Cathy's favorite color is green because she is Irish and enjoys new spring grass and the fragrance of evergreen trees.

FUN FACTS Jeffrey recently realized all his shirts were either white, blue or green. Mostly green. Why? That's just the way it is.

FUN FACTS Kurt, a photographer, has recently discovered that his small camera drone is not that easy to control.

Heather + Jameson

Jessica Luna

Kali Rahder

FUN FACTS Heather and Jameson are celebrating one year at their Bench studio this February.

FUN FACTS Jessica's favorite colors are black, dark black, pitch black, pastel black, light black and faded black.

FUN FACT Kali spent 8 years as a chemical specialist for the National Guard before becoming a color specialist for Kevin Murphy.

advertising account executive

photographers

6 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

assistant editor

photographer

fashion stylist

advertising account manager

copy editor

hair & makeup stylist

Photos: Heidi THorson, Kurt A. Keeler, Heather & Jameson, Jeffrey Bebee, Jordan Green Productions, Ashley Nicole Photography, Ashley Otte Photography

creative director + designer

HOWARD T. SWAIN, JR.

David Kerr

Rose M c cormick

FUN FACT Howard took seven vacations in 2015. He vows to limit himself to four this year.

FUN FACT David grew up in Scotland and studied design for four years before going into hospitality. He owns The Tavern.

FUN FACT Rose bought her first flower shop out of college at age 23. She's been in business for 30 years.

CHad LEbo

Meghann Schense

Vivian + JOrdan

travel writer

food columnist

FUN FACT Chad is a proud owner of a frying pan that has made grilled cheese sandwiches on three continents.

mixologist

merchandise stylist

FUN FACT Meghann approaches life with a sunny West coast ease, Midwest work ethic and East coast drive.

floral designer

photographers

FUN FACTS Vivian secretly wishes she had a pet penguin. Jordan crochets his own lens covers.

Jordan Stancombe

ERin Fairchild

Murphy Benoit

FUN FACT Jordan works in medicine by day and loves to bake in her free time. The kitchen is her favorite place in her apartment.

FUN FACT Erin grew up thinking cats were mean and made people sneeze and cry. Now her cat, Punkin, brings her much joy.

FUN FACT Murphy's favorite color is yellow because it makes her feel warm and bright. She also eats popcorn daily.

local foodie

writer

imaging specialist

inspiredlivingomaha.com  7

C ontents PHOTO: HEATHER & JAMESON Merchandise Credits, page 40

8 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

on the cover BEFORE + AFTER 28 | Happy Chic

HOmespiration 10 | Bright Moves 18 | Designer Picks 26 | Right Hue Sells Design Done Right 12 | Bold Strokes 20 | Pump Up the Volume Threads 40 | True Blue Denim Au COurant 48 | Clutch It!

402-502-1962 | Legacy West | 17650 Wright Street Stay updated with our newest items by visiting:

facebook.com/njandcompany

Wishing you and your family Wi

a

New Year!

The dish 50 | Dainty Macaroons THE Hidden Pantry 52 | Celery: Root to Shoot Host 56 | Vibrant Cocktails Destination 60 | Tahiti

TJ, Mamie, Kenzie and Ridge

402.306.7864

inspiredlivingomaha.com  9

HOMESPIRATION

5 tips for making color work for you.

STORY Chris Christen

The fastest facelift for any room is color. Yet the fear of getting it wrong makes most people stick with the safe and expected, especially when it comes to paint. Here, design pros Beth Settles, Ellen Turnage and Kris Patton of Interiors Joan and Associates share five tips for selecting color schemes with confidence.

1

2

3

4

5

ZERO in on what you love

Consider wood and brick tones

Limit your palette

keep the eye moving

Know where you’re going

Start by taking inventory of colors you like - and dislike.

“The ones you don’t like oftentimes are more important (to know) than the ones you do like,” Settles says.

Warm woods with yellow undertones, for example, look best with warm paint colors. If you favor cool hues with blue undertones, that honey woodwork or red brick will have to go, Turnage notes. The good news: Painting those surfaces is easier and more economical than you might think.

“You can go overboard with color,” says Settles.

“When you do, rooms can feel disconnected.”

Sticking with two or three hues in the same color wave or temperature range will help you achieve a cohesive color scheme throughout your home.

“That’s how you know a color or a design is balanced,’’ Patton says. “If your eye stops (because of disjointed color), the design has failed.

Just because it’s on Houzz or Pinterest doesn’t mean it’s right for you, your lifestyle, your budget or your space.”

Head-Turning Color Waves, page 12

10 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

“Starting a decorating project without a plan that’s specific to your space usually is detrimental to the overall look,” notes Turnage. If you’re unsure of your interior decorating ability, consulting an expert at the onset can help avoid an expensive error.

18

83

Visit our showroom at 9700 J St. Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 9-1 402.339.2220 sunderlandcompany.com

You’ve had plenty of awkward conversations.

What’s one more?

You two can talk about anything. Don’t let discussing retirement living put an end to that. We’ll provide information and advice to make the conversation a little bit easier. See where the conversation goes. You might just find a place uniquely your own. Give us a call at 402-829-2900 or visit Immanuel.com.

Affiliated with the Nebraska Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

inspiredlivingomaha.com 11

DESIGN DONE RIGHT

Five mood-changing interiors.

STORY Chris Christen Photography Jeffrey Bebee

LUXURY CONDOMINIUM Beth Settles, Allied Member ASID interior designer

The objective: Turn a bachelor’s one-bedroom midtown penthouse condominium into a stylish space for entertaining friends and business associates. For Settles, the owner’s art glass collection – playfully punctuated with frog figurines – provides a springboard for a palette of blue-grays with pops of citron. The sleek furnishings and finishes are “interesting but not over-the-top,” Settles observes. “The client can easily change out the throw pillows or switch up the color scheme with other accessories.” An upholstered bed in platinum fabric with decorative pewter nail heads commands the bedroom. “The lighter fabric complements the deeper toned fabrics in the bolster, ottoman and window treatment,” Settles notes. A neutral tonal carpet in a zebra pattern unifies this space for a “meticulous, style-savvy” client who pays attention to detail.

THE COLOr PALETTE

12 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

MASTER BEDROOM Ellen Turnage, Allied Member ASID interior designer

The objective: Refresh the room without buying new furniture or departing from the existing palette of red, green, gold and black. Turnage complemented her client’s pairing of scarlet walls with new, graphite gray textured bedding and scarlet draperies in a Damask pattern and a freshly upholstered rosy velour chair and ottoman. A faux fur pillow and throw mimic the graphite gray, while fringed accent pillows repeat the drapery fabric. A neutral tonal patterned carpet and white trim keep the room from feeling dark.

THE COLOr PALETTE

inspiredlivingomaha.com 13

THE COLOr PALETTE

14 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

LIVING-FAMILY ROOM Beth Settles, Allied Member ASID interior designer

The objective: Update the living room area in a 20-year-old suburban home with a redesigned hearth, a dramatic mirror display and new accessories, including an end table with tortoise shell inlay. “The original fireplace was dark and heavy. It bowled you over when you walked through the front door,” Settles recalls.

She softened its presence with a limestone surround and stone hearth with a painted and glazed mantel. Settles left the ruby-toned walls but replaced the draperies and shades to complement the existing painting over the hearth.

inspiredlivingomaha.com 15

POWDER ROOM Kris Patton, ASID interior designer

The objective: Energize a main floor powder room in a 1973 Regency home purchased last January by a couple with two young children. “Here’s your budget,” the homeowner told Patton. “Do whatever you want, and don’t show me anything until you’re done.’’

Patton started with wallpaper featuring oversized blooms on a chocolate background as a complement to a minimalist single sink vanity in a dark espresso finish and organic hardwood flooring. A vertical section of spice colored grass cloth added surprise. A framed mirror with a branchinspired design and a trio of caged orbs with bare bulbs above the sink play off a trio of swirled reclaimed wood accents on the opposite wall of this sophisticated farmhouse-style home. “I love it,” the homeowner says of the eye-popping space.

Guests do too.

THE COLOr PALETTE

16 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

KITCHEN Kris Patton, ASID interior designer

The objective: A lighter, brighter kitchen for a busy family of six. The plan called for cabinets, walls and trim in clear grays and whites, a custom glaze on the island, cool quartz countertops and a glass subway tile backsplash. Patton also added a mirror to the back of a built-in hutch in the dining area to reflect light into the room.

A built-in desk was raised to counter height, allowing a pair of stools to be tucked underneath for extra seating in a home with four children and two Labrador retrievers. When the family entertains, the raised section of the counter becomes a handy serving station. “Some people get nervous about painting their cabinets. They’re afraid they won’t have the luster,” Patton says.

“This project debunks the myth.”

THE COLOr PALETTE

inspiredlivingomaha.com 17

Homespiration

JEssica McKay

Libby Pantzlaff

“I approach color like most other aspects of design. If I love something, I try to make it work.

I like to keep the most-used rooms neutral and then go for bold colors in rooms where you don’t spend large chunks of time."

“Kitchens are my favorite rooms for bold color. Think of the heart of the home with white kitchen cabinets, white counters and a lipstick red door leading into the pantry. It’s fresh, exciting and unexpected.”

Go-to neutral Sherwin-Williams "Repose Gray" SW 7015 “It’s a soft gray that feels velvety light and works with any color scheme.”

Go-to neutral Sherwin-Williams "Alabaster" SW 7008 “This neutral white pairs nicely with stains or bold paint colors.”

Signature color Benjamin Moore "Hale Navy" HC-154 “Navy is a workhorse. It can lead the way or take a back seat in an accent like trim work."

Signature color Sherwin-Williams "Dovetail" SW 7018 “I call this gray a ‘two-for-one.’

It looks amazing on both the exterior and the interior of a home."

Excited about Sherwin-Williams "Retreat" SW 6207 “It’s a lovely, deep green that has a timeless English vibe.”

Excited about Sherwin-Williams "Copper Mountain" SW 6356 “Try this next to a wall with recycled barn wood, slate floors or black distressed cabinets.”

Designer + Owner BIRDHOUSE INTERIOR DESIGN

Interior Design Consultant + Owner CREATIVE INTERIORS BY LIBBY

Design pros share their top brush strokes.

Compiled by Kim Carpenter

Whether bright and vibrant or cool and calming, nothing defines a space more than color.

Here, local design experts share their go-to hues. Set aside your paint swatches for now and see how they stack up against these sure-fire hits for your next room makeover.

18 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Courtney Otte

Julia Russell

“I’m an advocate for youthful modern design and appreciate white and how versatile it can be with various pops of color.

It also easily switches over to a more neutral color scheme with the use of duller hues.”

“The entry can be an unexpected place for an unusual pop of color.

Going with an intense green, for example, lets you use more neutral colors in the adjoining rooms without feeling uninspired with the lack of color.”

Go-to neutral Pittsburgh Paints "Fog" 517-3 “It has a slightly blue undertone but it feels like it’s right in between the blue grays and brown grays – a true neutral.”

Go-to neutral Sherwin-Williams "Mega Greige" SW 7031 “It draws out deep, rich stone colors from natural finishes in traditional settings and works as a contemporary background.”

Signature coloR Benjamin Moore "Decorator’s White" CC-20 “I use this on a majority of projects, and it’s the color I keep going back to when painting a room white.”

Signature color Sherwin-Williams "Plum Brown" SW 6272 “In the daylight, this dark plum has a very rich undertone of purple with a dramatic feel, and at night it’s a mysterious brown.”

Interior Designer + Entrepreneur THE MODERN HIVE DESIGN STUDIO

Interior Designer + Owner JULIA RUSSELL DESIGNS

The Shops of Legacy 16939 Wright Plaza 402.557.6100 garmentdistrictomaha.com

Countryside Village 8711 Countryside Plaza 402.934.2111 gramercyomaha.com

Excited about Sherwin-Williams "Iron Ore" SW 7069 “It’s perfect for creating a moody yet energetic space when accented with bold shots of lime green, magenta and teal."

Excited about Benjamin Moore "Fading Twilight" 1258 “This color reflects the original 1955 paint color palette of Frank Lloyd Wright’s landmark architectural design achievements."

inspiredlivingomaha.com 19

DESIGN DONE RIGHT A view from Min | Day's blue room in the L Residence.

For Min | Day, color moves through cutting-edge architecture. story kim carpenter Photography paul crosby

When you walk into any room designed

by Min | Day, you don’t just see color; you experience it. Ranging from soothing neutrals to riotous primaries, color surrounds you, defining and refining how you experience a given space.

Based in both Omaha and San Francisco, the architectural firm’s approach is about more than using color as a decorative element. It’s about making color an integral component of its award-winning contemporary design work.

We caught up with design principle Jeff Day in his

Benson office to get to the heart of the firm’s color philosophy.

“We’re very careful about controlling the way one experiences color,” he says. “We use it in a very intentional way and often talk about volumetric color as something that envelopes an entire space as opposed to individual surfaces.”

Here, the firm’s space-engaging strategies are illustrated in a lakeside estate, a downtown Omaha condo and the Blue Barn Theatre’s new 10th Street location.

(continued on page 22)

20 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Color envelopes guests in this Lake Okoboji retreat.

inspiredlivingomaha.com  21

Lake Okoboji home

Min | Day’s design for this northeast Iowa lake home features a minimal wood and metal exterior in a neutral color palette that emphasizes the beauty of the natural surroundings. When you enter private living areas, though, color plays a more extreme role.

“The main living spaces are more neutral because we were really focusing on the exterior,” reflects Day. “As you move into more intimate spaces, the colors become more intense. This is an example of volume. It’s really about wrapping that space in a color so that as you experience the house, you experience that intense color.”

“In the more intimate spaces, it becomes more about the interior and less about the exterior,” explains Day of the bright bathrooms and small bedrooms. “It’s about creating a sense of mood from the exterior to the interior.”

22 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

“This house had a very particular strategy with color,” says Day. “We were thinking about the blues coming from the lake, the greens coming from the trees, the oranges referencing fall. It’s really about that landscape.”

“It’s a strategy just understanding how color works,” the architect notes. “To get the exact shade in this room, I think we painted about 20 different blues in little patches on the wall.”

L RESIDENCE

For the firm’s design of the “L Residence,” a condo home in a downtown Omaha hotel, it employed volumetric color in a dramatic, all-blue room.

“In the blue room, the idea was about being in a world of color,” Day notes. “You enter into this abstract world where there’s no materiality. You’re just looking at color.”

“There’s blue rubber on the floor and a light source above that makes it glow,” says Day of the all-blue room. Perforated paneling on the wall allows light in. To avoid any distraction from the thickness of the material, “the painter painted each of the holes right to the edge so there would be no sense you were looking at three-quarter-inch plywood.”

inspiredlivingomaha.com 23

BLUE BARN THEATRE

From the beginning, blue played a dominating role in the design for the theater group’s new performance space on the southern fringe of Omaha’s Old Market. “With the Blue Barn, obviously the color is the brand, so it wasn’t like we were going to come in and make them paint it red,” laughs Day. Instead, “we pushed them to use it (blue) in a bold way. There was an awful lot of study into the exact shade of blue.”

Min | Day used warmtone LED lighting,

“In the Blue Barn, there isn’t a lot of other color – except for the red chairs, which came from the original space,” says Day. “All the public spaces are this blue wrapping around the theater.”

24 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

which beautifully enhanced the earth tones of the venue’s wooden interior, but had one negative side effect – it created a green cast against the blue paint. “Here it was really a challenge …

We used blue gels on the lights to wash the walls blue and cool down the light.

It shows you how tricky color can get.”

Connecting your extraordinary y life... to an incredible home. openadore.com

Kara Bellino

Mark Hinrichs Kelly Kontz

402 968 7756

402 850 4201 402 290 4972

Christie Oberto Megan Hoch 402 213 8425

402 250 4116

inspiredlivingomaha.com  25

HOMESPIRATION

Realtor: Right hue sells.

TEXT kim carpenter Photography courtesy of the key group

Hardwood floors from France. A custom-made spiral staircase.

Show-stopping chandeliers. Killer window views. A 6,000-square-foot Bennington Lake home had it all. Yet it sat on the market for more than a year.

Potential buyers couldn’t get past one thing.

The yellow.

“All you could see when you walked in was the yellow,” Realtor Kelly Kontz recalls. “The color was very personalized to the décor. If you weren’t a ‘yellow person,’ the color was a disconnect.”

Kontz suggested a change of hue

when the sellers re-listed the property with The Key Group.

“Color can make or break a home sale,” Kontz explains. While many sellers may not think twice about remodeling a kitchen or a bathroom to enhance a sale, they often will overlook the basic step of repainting.

“In staging a home, I look at color first. It’s extremely important,” says Kontz. “You can set the stage for an entire space with the right wall color.”

Architectural features drive Kontz’s recommendations. A room with a high vaulted ceiling, for example, will benefit

BEFORE

“It was yellow,” recalls Realtor Kelly Kontz of the Bennington Lake home that wasn’t selling.

“Everything kind of blended together.”

26 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

from a wall shade that’s deeper than the ceiling to make the angles stand out.

The seller of the lake home, Kontz says, was initially reluctant to repaint.

“Changing color is the one thing I get the most opposition to. However, once sellers see how far a fresh coat of paint goes, they understand the return on the dollar. They realize it’s a wonderful investment. Changing color helps their homes sell quicker.”

In the case of the Bennington Lake home, it sold within three days for the asking price of $1.1 million, proving color was, indeed, key.

AFTER

A gray-beige custom mix accentuates the architectural elements and pulls the eye toward the magnificent lake view.

BEFORE

AFTER

TRENDING WITH RESULTS

Kelly Kontz's SELLER TIPS:

WALLS Gray all the way. “For some people, it’s too much, so we combine it with tan tones for a custom color called ‘greige.’’’ Gray is quickly surpassing yellow, teal and chocolate, which are waning in popularity.

FIXTURES Brushed brass. “The new brass is a combination of silver and gold in a soft finish.”

CABINETRY White is right. “Cabinets used to be espresso – dark, dark, dark. Now the trend is toward sleek and clean marbled whites.”

CARPETING “People don’t want colorful carpet. They just don’t. If it’s burgundy, it has to go.” Ditto for hunter green – anywhere in your home.

Take home enjoyment to a whole new level Home Theater & Surround Sound Home Automation High Performance Stereo Systems 402-502-4502 | crescendohometheater.com

inspiredlivingomaha.com 27

BEFORE + AFTER

THE KITCHEN While the footprint of the cabinets stayed the same, the upper section was reconfigured to accommodate a hooded range. Drafty double-hung windows were replaced with energy-efficient picture windows for more natural light and better views into the wooded back yard.

Faded fruit-and-vegetable wallpaper from the 1990s came down, and rift-cut white oak flooring went in.

28  JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Linda Meredith loves a “Nervy Hue,” which is a

STORY Chris Christen Photography Jeffrey Bebee

Palm Springs – Shag and all!

good thing given it’s the name of the cheery apple green SherwinWilliams paint that runs through her two-story home in Council Bluffs’ Timbercrest subdivision.

“I want my home to make me smile, and it certainly does,” Linda says.

Twelve months ago, the brilliant green – or any other bold stroke of paint color, for that matter – would have stuck out like a sore thumb in her guacamole and burnt orange country décor. And Linda definitely wasn’t smiling.

Vacationing in Palm Springs over the years, though, had gotten Linda and her husband, Dick, thinking about ways to enjoy a similar vibe here. Their home, Linda began lamenting, was boring. “It’s not fun.

It’s not happy,” she told Dick last January.

Today, color is the spice of life in a contemporary design scheme that captures the mod, retro vibe of 1970s Palm Springs.

An Indianapolis 500 party over Memorial Day Weekend put the whole-house redo on a fast track to completion. Linda would need help and found it in Jerome Bergmeier of Interiors Joan and Associates, whose portfolio included design work in Southern California.

Jerome's inspiration boards for the Merediths popped with color, pattern and texture inspired, in part, by an iconic Shag art print his clients had purchased a few years earlier but never hung. “We loved it but didn’t have a place for it because the décor was all wrong,” Linda explains. Today, that print figures prominently in the living room.

The couple talks about their home in two distinct periods. “Before Jerome” and “After Jerome.”

“Like Pre-Columbian and PostColumbian,” Dick explains with a smile.

The Palm Springs vibe, Linda says, wakes up her senses and makes her feel happy. “Jerome nailed it.” inspiredlivingomaha.com 29

The homeowners, Linda and Dick Meredith.

THE QUIET ROOM A picture window offers a great view of the woods and wildlife. This is a favorite space for reading and contemplation.

30  JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

THE DINING ROOM The fluted table, from Design Within Reach, is repurposed from another area of the home. The Saarinen side chairs by Knoll nearly missed their grand reveal at that Indy 500 party. “It was a photo finish” with the designer tracking down the delivery truck in Omaha and pulling off the chairs the same day guests arrived.

inspiredlivingomaha.com 31

THE LIVING ROOM A print of artist Josh Agle’s (a.k.a. Shag) serigraph, “The Nosy Neighbors,” inspired the living room palette. An antique German rosewood liquor cabinet purchased at a Modernism show in Palm Springs anchors the wall opposite the picture window.

32 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Annual White Sale

40% off Select Patterns & 20% off Solids JAN 15-30

EXCLUSIVELY AT:

THE LINEN GALLERY

8730 Countryside Plaza www.LinensandDown.com 402.399.5242

Mosaic cats connect with every hue in the room.

Complete Your Look at sophisticated shoes stylish handbags stunning jewelry 8710 Countryside Plaza 402.933.7995 themixshoes.com inspiredlivingomaha.com  33

THE CONVERSATION AREA A midcentury Italian tulip table provides balance in a nook near the kitchenette.

A cornice board softens the space.

34 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

THE KITCHENETTE Padded, powder-coated blue bar stools tuck under an aqua quartz countertop that the Merediths got at a bargain price. The dealer told Linda, “Nobody around here wants this … but it’s perfect for you.”

inspiredlivingomaha.com 35

GARDEN SUITE, LOWER LEVEL When this family needed more sleeping space for overnight guests, they transformed a game room into a guest suite. Vibrant floral-print and striped fabrics for draperies and upholstery drove the room's décor. “I never would have picked this out,” Linda says of the textile and paint combination that her interior designer proposed.

36 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Bring Back the Life & Luster to Your Kitchen Cabinets!

Nhance is a family owned business in Omaha that can save you thousands of dollars by renewing existing cabinets!

Call today oday to ask how we can hhelp!

402.884.9600

nhance.com/omaha inspiredlivingomaha.com  37

THE WORKROOM A second-level workroom featuring a washer and dryer, computer station and large island allows for multitasking. Relocated from the basement, the island got a new top and a fresh coat of paint. Today, it’s heavily used for cutting fabric and wrapping packages.

38  JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

THE GUEST BEDROOM & BATH Color accents repeat for impact.

Turquoise furnishings keep the eye moving. A few well-placed touches of orange add extra zest. The color scheme takes flight in the guest bath with whimsical bird-patterned wallpaper and a crazy-fun speckled Vetrazzo Millefiori vanity countertop.

inspiredlivingomaha.com  39

THREADS

( On page 8) Leo & Sage sleeveless turtleneck, $87 HUSH BOUTIQUE LOVEHUSHBOUTIQUE.COM

Sam Edelman denim dress, $110 N.J. & CO. NJANDCOMPANY.COM

Crystal and pavé diamond cocktail ring, $8 Gold ball earring, $5 Leather messenger bag, $32 ESTHER’S ESTHERSCONSIGNMENT.COM

Men’s wood ring, $300 JAMIE FEINSTEIN JAMIEFEINSTEINDESIGN.COM

June leather jacket, $789 THE MIX THEMIXSHOES.COM

Gold stone ring, $145 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

Cactus Jeans denim vest, $4 SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE

Novelty anklet, $6 KLEVELAND CLOTHING

GoSilk tie-dye slip dress, $458 CHRISTEL’S

Lamie leather belt, $5 NEW LIFE THRIFT

SALARMYOMAHA.ORG

CHRISTELSCLOTHING.COM

KLEVELANDCLOTHING.COM

NEWLIFETHRIFT.NET

Hello, old friend.

Some things never go out of style. Like denim.

True blue to its core, denim has a way of making you comfortably happy every time you pull it on.

Here, eight fresh looks for eight classic pieces. photography Heather & Jameson Art Direction Heidi THorson Merchandise st yling Jessica luna Hair & Makeup Kali Rahder, victor victoria salon & Spa Model Alyson O., Develop Model Management backdrop Andrea Schmitz Location Bench omaha

40 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

American Breed button-front shirt, $75 KLEVELAND CLOTHING KLEVELANDCLOTHING.COM

M. Rena knit vest, $58 N.J. & CO. NJANDCOMPANY.COM

Mother Graffiti Girl jean, $198 Gold tiered earrings, $58 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

Crystal pendant, $510 pewter chain, $550 360 Cashmere dip-dye sweater, $288 CHRISTEL’S CHRISTELSCLOTHING.COM

Inez Gill knit scarf, stylist’s own INEZ GILL inezgill.com

Dolce Vita “Sylvia” boot, $238 THE MIX THEMIXSHOES.COM

inspiredlivingomaha.com 41

Clara Sunwoo jacket, $148 N.J. & CO. NJANDCOMPANY.COM

Pleather mesh top, $42.99 MOLLY O'BRIEN mollyelizabeth.net

Laura Ashley tank, $10 Epice wool scarf, $38 ESTHER’S

ESTHERSCONSIGNMENT.COM

Upcycled denim midi skirt, $45 KLEVELAND CLOTHING KLEVELANDCLOTHING.COM

Genuine Rex Rabbit neck warmer, $268 HUSH BOUTIQUE

LOVEHUSHBOUTIQUE.COM

San Diego Hat Company bowler, $60 Raw stone ring, $85 Tassel earring, $42 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

42 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

George Loves tank dress, $128 360 Cashmere cardigan, $438 CHRISTEL’S CHRISTELSCLOTHING.COM

ME by Molly Elizabeth skirt, $39.99 MOLLY O'BRIEN MOLLYELIZABETH.NET

Talbot’s silk blouse, $28 ETHER’S ESTHERSCONSIGNMENT.COM

Levi denim jacket, $68 Joie “Delyth” boot, $295 TALISMAN SHOPTALISMAN.US

Zac Posen patent handbag, $248 HUSH BOUTIQUE LOVEHUSHBOUTIQUE.COM

Silver braided necklace, $38 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

Brass and quartz necklace, $225 Brass ring, $135 Brass lapis ring, $175 HEATHER KITA HEATHERKITA.COM

inspiredlivingomaha.com 43

Michael Stars turtleneck, $49.99 Ball pendant, $89 HUSH BOUTIQUE

LOVEHUSHBOUTIQUE.COM

Sam Edelman suede jacket, $210 N.J. & CO. NJANDCOMPANY.COM

Quilted work pant, $3.99 NEW LIFE THRIFT NEWLIFETHRIFT.NET

Gold stone necklace, $110 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

Feather earring, $5 ESTHER’S

ESTHERSCONSIGNMENT.COM

Denim backpack, model's own

44 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

3x1 denim shirt, $268 CHRISTEL’S CHRISTELSCLOTHING.COM

Faux shearling motto vest, $44 ESTHER’S

ESTHERSCONSIGNMENT.COM

Isle by Melis Kozan sweatshirt dress, $78 N.J. & CO. NJANDCOMPANY.COM

Floral tie, 99 cents GOODWILL RESERVE Goodwillomaha.org

Gold chain necklace, $38 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

Double chain bracelet, $71 Single chain bracelet, $49 HUSH BOUTIQUE LOVEHUSHBOUTIQUE.COM

Stuart Weitzman boot, $744 THE MIX THEMIXSHOES.COM

inspiredlivingomaha.com 45

46 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

(Opposite page) Denim duster, $68 TALISMAN SHOPTALISMAN.US

Tulle collar, $95 ELLENE McCLAY

ellenemcclay.com

Amy & Joey handbag, $39 N.J. & CO. NJANDCOMPANY.COM

Clover Canyon tunic, $216 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

Nili Lotan maxi skirt, $494 CHRISTEL’S CHRISTELSCLOTHING.COM

Knit cape, $44 ESTHER’S

ESTHERSCONSIGNMENT.COM

(This page) Brave Nouvelle dress, $650 ELLENE McCLAY

Gold belt, $1.99 New Life Thrift

BLK-DMM Tensel shirt, $218 Skull cashmere gloves, $126 CHRISTEL’S

Original Joe sterling bangles, $182 each Brass bangles, $91 each JAMIE FEINSTEIN

NEWLIFETHRIFT.NET

ellenemcclay.com

CHRISTELSCLOTHING.COM

Kin Ross cashmere sweater, $202 Zenii earring, $44 HUSH BOUTIQUE

LOVEHUSHBOUTIQUE.COM

Eileen Fischer swing coat, $45 Jay-Herbert shoulder bag, $48 Donald Pliner loafer, $50 ESTHER’S ESTHERSCONSIGNMENT.COM

DL1961 skinny jean, $188 GRAMERCY GRAMERcYOMAHA.COM

JAMIEFEINSTEINDESIGN.COM

Eye of Odin brass ring, $185 Brass and sterling geometric earring (in hair), $70 Brass and quartz bracelet (in hair), $195 HEATHER KITA HEATHERKITA.COM

Zenzii earring, $44 Brushed silver bangle, $498 Brushed silver cuff, $273 HUSH BOUTIQUE LOVEHUSHBOUTIQUE.COM

Brass cuff, $150 THE MIX

THEMIXSHOES.COM

inspiredlivingomaha.com 47

AU COURANT

photography jordan green productions Art Direction Heidi THorson Merchandise st yling Meghann Schense/Esoteric velvet

Bags you'll want to embrace.

When you’re heading out – and all you really need are your wallet, keys, lip gloss and phone – wrap your fingers around one of these little beauties.

Fringed crossbody, $58 GRAMERCY GRAMERCYOMAHA.COM

48 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

tehra + b leather French knot clutch, $250 GARMENT DISTRICT & GRAMERCY

Katherine Kwei “Maxine” clutch, $379 DESIGN PARLIAMENT

Katherine Kwei “Donna” clutch, $540 DESIGN PARLIAMENT

Katherine Kwei “Joan” clutch, $695 DESIGN PARLIAMENT

Satin and rhinestone zip clutch, $58 GRAMERCY

Lattice fold-over clutch, $58 GRAMERCY

Katherine Kwei “Lila Pouchette’’ clutch, $265 DESIGN PARLIAMENT

Embroidered fold-over clutch, $58 GRAMERCY

Brucie Bag suede clutch, $42 TRUE BLUE GOODS & GIFTS

Garmentdistrictomaha.com | Gramercyomaha.com

Designparliament.com

Designparliament.com

Designparliament.com

GRAMERCYOMAHA.COM

Gramercyomaha.com

Designparliament.com

GRAMERCYOMAHA.COM

TRUEBLUEGOODSANDGIFTS.com

inspiredlivingomaha.com 49

THE DISH

Warm a heart "just because" with these easy macaroons.

TEXT ERIN FAIRCHILD RECIPE preparation Jordan stancombe Photography HEIDI THORSON

50 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

The dainty macaroon’s romantic and indulgent nature makes it the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day or any day “just because.” This popular French pastry might look complicated but the recipe is surprisingly simple, and the color and flavor variations are endless. Go the traditional route and bake as gifts or declare a date night and whip up a batch to enjoy with your sweetie over a bottle of wine. Either way, these airy meringue shells and sweet fillings will infuse any occasion with a little extra love.

Cherry Macaroons

Makes 30

SHELL INGREDIENTS 1¼ cups almond flour 1¾ cups confectioner’s sugar ¼ teaspoon salt 4 large egg whites ½ cup granulated sugar ¼ teaspoon almond extract

WHAT YOU DO

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. (If using a convection oven, bake at 315 degrees to prevent shells from cracking.)

2. Whisk together almond flour and confectioner’s sugar; sift over a large bowl.

3. Beat egg whites until frothy, 1 to 2 minutes.

Slowly add granulated sugar and almond extract. Beat until medium shiny peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes. If tinting macaroon shells, add desired food coloring.

4. Fold egg whites into almond mixture until combined. Transfer mixture to a pastry bag or zip-top bag and cut ½-inch off a corner tip. Pipe 1-inch rounds about 1 inch apart on parchment-lined sheets. Tip: Use a macaroon baking sheet for uniform macaroon shells.

5. Let dry 30 minutes to 1½ hours until tops are firm and dry. Bake one sheet at a time for about 14 minutes, rotating sheet once after 7 minutes. Let cool completely.

Reveal smooth and luminous skin...

$150 off the NanoLaserPeel

NanoLaserPeel is a perfect introduction to laser treatments for any patient interested in the newest way to get smoother, brighter skin with minimal downtime

medical rejuvenation center 9802 Nicholas Street, Suite 305, Omaha 402.397.2300 | www.devenu.com gift cards available on our website!

FILLING INGREDIENTS ½ stick unsalted butter 4 ounces cream cheese 1 tablespoon vanilla 3 cups confectioner’s sugar ½ cup fresh cherries, pitted

WHAT YOU DO

1. In a blender, combine cream cheese and butter.

2. Add cherries and vanilla and blend until smooth.

3. Add confectioner’s sugar, 1 cup at a time, while blending constantly.

4. Spoon into piping bag and fill cookies.

5. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of Chelsey Mass chelseylifeanddesign.blogspot.com

Stop by and talk to us about making your bedroom the perfect oasis or browse our selection of unique gifts.

Mention this ad and receive

20Off %*

any single item purchase

* Restrictions apply. See store for details.

leave the

���

to us

In Rockbrook Village 11006 Prairie Brook Road • Omaha 402.492.9855 • www.earlytobed.com inspiredlivingomaha.com 51

THE HIDDEN PANTRY

Lean, toothsome friend gets some respect.

TEXT, RECIPES and Photography CHAD LEBO

There are certainly more enthralling ingredients than celery to explore in a culinary column, but humble and overlooked is rather the point. In this six-part series, cooking specialist Chad Lebo looks in the garden, grocery aisle and even the wild for ingredients that are forgotten, ignored or unexpected and brings them into the kitchen. His recipes and techniques are meant to be as much inspirational as informational. So explore, expand, invent. It’s your kitchen.

52  JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Quick! Name the last time you heard someone say, “Wow, that is really good celery!”

This meek vegetable is more often treated as fodder than food, something to be endured rather than enjoyed.

A food we should eat instead of one we want to eat, celery fills party platters and assuages the guilt of a basket of Buffalo wings. In the garden, one can only imagine the holier-than-thou looks it gets from the heirloom tomatoes.

Time to redeem this lean, toothsome friend. Its leaves are a fine place to start. The darker leaves, in particular, are the most flavorful part of celery. Think of them as the "Uncle Herb" you didn’t know you had. Use them like flat parsley or even basil. Chop and add to just about any soup, salad or pasta.

If you enjoy salad and like the combination of celery and nuts, swap the basil with celery leaves in your next pesto. Or add a pop of celery leaf flavor to bean soup at the end of a long day of simmering.

Add that same herbal punch to salad greens or let celery take center stage in our featured Celery and Feta Salad (page 55). The leaves and stalk tips, along with toasted walnuts and salty feta, make for a refreshing but still hearty winter salad. If your definition of hearty includes meat, add roasted chicken or medium-rare beef.

The middle of the celery is no less versatile.

I won’t deny the perfect blend of whimsy and child-friendly snack that is "ants on a log," but there are more lofty dishes to pursue. Think of the “meaty” part of celery just as you would any vegetable. It can be grilled, steamed, roasted, puréed, baked, fried and more.

Keep in mind: Celery has more water than most vegetables, and cooked celery can quickly become stringier than a theoretical physicist

at a shoestring convention. Scalloped potatoes are a wonderful example of how to solve both problems, and replacing the tubers with celery in this classic and creamy dish is a delicious option. How to avoid a watery casserole of broken butter and cream? Rather than adding flour to bind up the water and ending up with glue, simply bake or fry the celery a bit to remove some of the extra liquid. To keep from serving a selfflossing side dish, cut the celery thinly and at an angle (on the bias).

I love celery in stir-fry dishes. In a scorching hot frying pan or wok, celery cooks in seconds but still has a satisfying crunch. And to prove that celery is so much more than diet food, try it in a stir-fry entrée that features pork belly and ginger (recipe follows). Serve over rice and wash down with an India pale ale (IPA).

Now we’re down to the tough white stalks of our root-to-shoot adventure. Typically, these disrespected bottoms end up as compost at best.

In winter, whet your gardening chops by planting the bottom of a celery stalk in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill. In a few days, bright green leaves will unfurl from the middle, and in a few weeks you'll have a small crop of fresh shoots. Mix those tender herby tips with the tougher stalk for a wonderful “locally-grown” soup (recipe follows).

If ridiculously easy gardening isn’t your thing, you can make a vegetable broth by slowly simmering celery bottoms, onion skins and carrot trimmings. Or just freeze the trimmings until you have chicken or ham bones on hand for a rich stock.

After making stock or broth, your celery may have truly met its end. But that is the perfect excuse to buy or grow another bunch and start cooking, creating and eating all over again.

(continued on page 54)

inspiredlivingomaha.com 53

Roasted Celery & Potato Cream Soup

Serves 2 as a meal or 4 as a starter Any celery will work, but this soup is particularly good with celery’s tough white stalk ends. Use the tougher celery for pureeing and the new tender celery leaves for flavor and garnish.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2. Add 2 cups chopped celery and 2 cups chopped potatoes (skin on) to baking sheet and lightly dress with olive oil. Bake until lightly browned, about 15 minutes.

3. In medium saucepan, combine roasted celery and potatoes, 2 large garlic cloves, 2 cups low-salt chicken or vegetable broth, 1 cup half and half, ½ teaspoon celery seeds, ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.

4. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until celery and potatoes are fully tender.

5. Remove from heat. Add another ¼ cup half and half and ½ cup celery leaves. Puree in pot with immersion blender or conventional blender.

6. Garnish with celery leaves, celery seeds and black pepper.

7. Serve with toast points or garlic bread or top with croutons.

Spicy Celery & Pork Belly Stir Fry

Serves 4 as a meal Here’s spicy proof that celery is not just a diet food.

Use the middle of the stalks for this dish, slicing thinly and at an angle. Serve over rice or Asian noodles. For a vegetarian version, replace pork belly or bacon with extra-firm or fried tofu and an additional tablespoon of peanut oil.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep vegetables. Finely slice 2 cups celery, 1 cup ginger, 1 cup red bell pepper (if you want extra spicy, try an ancho).

2. Prep ½ pound pork belly. Fresh pork belly (a.k.a. side pork) is great for this, but extra-thick cut bacon works just fine. Regardless of choice, cut into thick slices about 1½ inches long.

3. Heat large frying pan or wok on high until very hot.

4. Add 1 teaspoon peanut or canola oil and immediately swirl pan or wok to coat with oil.

5. Add pork belly/bacon and constantly stir for 1-2 minutes.

6. Add celery, ginger and red pepper and 1 teaspoon fish sauce and continue to stir for 1-2 minutes.

Vegetables should be slightly wilted but still crisp.

Pork belly/bacon should be cooked but not crispy.

7. Add 1 tablespoon each soy sauce and sriracha or sambal–style hot sauce to desired spiciness and stir for 1 minute. (If using bacon and not fresh pork belly, use low-sodium soy sauce).

8. Serve immediately and garnish with celery leaves.

54 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

CELERY SALT

1. Load food processor with large-grain sea salt and celery leaves. 2. Pulse on and off for a few seconds until the grains are about the size of table salt. 3. Place salt in a jar and let stand for a week or so. 4. Use to flavor everything from omelets to soup.

Celery & Feta Salad

Serves 2 as a meal or 4 as a starter Celery leaves and tips star in this simple but satisfying salad. Add roasted chicken or thinlysliced medium rare beef for a hearty version or to make it a meal.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In large bowl, combine 2 cups chopped celery tips and leaves, 1 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1 cup toasted walnuts or almonds and 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh ginger.

2. Make 1 cup simple croutons. Chop good bread, coat very lightly with olive oil, dust with salt and then toast or fry until gently toasted. Add to large bowl with other ingredients.

3. Make dressing by whisking together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon lemon juice and salt to taste.

4. Pour dressing over salad and toss in bowl.

5. Serve and garnish with celery leaves and sprinkle with celery seeds.

A Cure for Common Cooking

Meet Chad Lebo, a chef intent on keeping food traditions alive.

Chad Lebo is passionate about food and the way it’s made. The best recipe, he maintains, is one you assemble in your own kitchen, with your own hands.

He spends a lot of his time enhancing his Fort Calhoun-based business, Cure Cooking, where he specializes in curing meats for heritage breed bacon, pancetta, ham steaks and sausage. He’ll readily share his talents with you in classes that run the gastronomical gamut from cheese-making to sourdough bread baking.

Chad’s culinary compass has been influenced by regional favorites in central Pennsylvania’s Mennonite communities where he grew up, six years spent in Madagascar (on assignment with his botanist wife) and culinary pursuits in Paris, where he and his wife lived for a time.

He believes anyone can cook – and cook exquisitely – using traditional methods as a foundation. He demonstrates that here in a recipe series developed exclusively for Inspired Living Omaha.

What can readers expect? “Good ingredients and good techniques. I want people to understand how to cook and expand on what they know. It’s not about fancy equipment. You can use what you have in your kitchen.”

The author and photographer of this column, Chad Lebo, with Puce, who has worked as the chef’s assistant on three continents. Lebo rescued Puce (French for “flea market”) from the streets of Madagascar, and she’s been by his side ever since. Learn more at curecooking.com. inspiredlivingomaha.com 55

HOST

Cymbidium Orchid Gerbera Daisy

Exotic Rose Euphorbia

Parrot Tulip

Anemone

Winterberry

Cockscomb Persimmon-on-a-stick Ranunculus

Standard Rose

Chili Pepper

Cockscomb

56  JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Super Green Rose

Anemone Mini Ornamental Kale

Button Mum Craspedia (Billy Balls)

Blue Hydrangea

Green Chili Pepper

Lavender Moon Carnation

Callicarpa Americana

Silver Brunia Berry

Happy hour just got happier.

Blue Muscari Blue Thistle

Hypericum Berry

ART DIRECTION + PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi THorson Set Styling | Chris Christen, Heidi THorson, Anna Harms

Dreary days of winter got you down?

Enliven your spirits with these splashy cocktails created for Inspired Living Omaha by mixologist David Kerr of The Tavern.

He takes his inspiration from a vibrant ribbon of blooms courtesy of Rose McCormick at Beyond the Vine. inspiredlivingomaha.com  57

BoTTOMS UP! Serve your drinks with an extra swirl of color. Find instructions for making your own easy alcohol ink coasters at inspiredlivingomaha.com

Blush Crush: Combine 1.5 ounces Deep Eddy's cranberry vodka with equal parts cranberry juice and tonic water to fill tall glass. Garnish with lime slice. Orange You Single: Combine 1 ounce each Monkey Shoulder Scotch Whisky, Bärenjäger honey liqueur and orange juice; ¼ ounce simple syrup; 2 dashes Angostura bitters. Garnish with orange twist. Yellow, There: Fill champagne flute or Collins glass with 3 ounces well-chilled Prosecco; add 2 dashes orange bitters; top off with pineapple juice, shaken until frothy. Garnish with pineapple.

Green to Go: Combine 1.5 ounces Hendrick's gin, ½ ounce each simple syrup and Midori melon liqueur. Top with sour mix; garnish with olive and cucumber slice in an accordion fold. Blue for You: For a twist on Long Island Ice Tea, combine ½ ounce each vodka, tequila, rum and blue curaçao. Add sour mix; shake over ice; top with Sprite; garnish with lemon slice. Purple Pleaser: Mix 1.5 ounces Tito's vodka, 1 ounce Malibu rum, ½ ounce blue curaçao, 1 ounce pomegranate juice; top with equal parts sour mix and Sprite. Garnish with fresh berries.

58 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

S I M P LY D I S T I N C T I V E Ann Taylor | Anthropologie | Borsheims | Christian Nobel Furs | Evereve | Francesca’s Collections | Garbo’s Salon & Spa | Learning Express Toys LOFT | Parsow’s Fashions | Pottery Barn | Pottery Barn Kids | Rhylan Lang | Tilly | White House|Black Market | Williams-Sonoma DINING: Bonefish Grill | Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar | Paradise Bakery & Cafe

HOME TO

Mon-Fri 10am-8pm | Sat 10am-7pm | Sun 12pm-5pm 120 Regency Parkway | Omaha, Nebraska | regencycourtomaha.com

Celebrating Omaha's Historic CHRISTIAN SPECHT BUILDING

Built in 1884 The 131 year old Specht Building is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the only known building in Nebraska to have an iron facade.

IT HAS BEEN PROPOSED THAT THE CHRISTIAN SPECHT BUILDING BE TORN DOWN AND REPL ACED WITH A PARKING GARAGE. Join us in the fight to preserve this piece of Omaha's history, Google the key words below to learn more:

SAVE THE SPECHT BUILDING PA I D F O R B Y:

JULIA RUSSELL INTERIOR DESIGN

JRDESIGNSASID.COM

inspiredlivingomaha.com 59

DESTINATION

Island hopping in Tahiti is a feast for the senses.

STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY HOWARD T. SWAIN, JR.

When you think of Tahiti, you probably envision an exotic tropical island with palm trees swaying in balmy breezes as crystal clear waves gently lap onto pristine sand beaches.

That’s just what I found during a recent excursion to this island paradise. After nearly three weeks of touring, though, I discovered that Tahiti offers so much more.

Tahiti is not a single island but rather a chain of 118 islands and atolls known as French Polynesia.

The island grouping covers an area in the South Pacific the size of Western Europe but has a landmass only slightly larger than Rhode Island. High, rugged mountain peaks, coral reefs, turquoise-blue lagoons, white sand, palm-fringed beaches, forests lush with flowers and luxuriously intimate resorts are a tourist's dream.

I toured the islands aboard the cruise ship the Marina, with ports of call including Fakarava (Fac-ARava), Rangiroa (Rang-Or-Ria), Huahine (Hoo-NaHiney), Moorea, Raiatea (Ri-A-Tea) and Bora Bora.

Fakarava has few inhabitants but is a visual feast for the eye. Awash with tropical flowers and plant life, its sweet fragrances are still with me. Rangiroa

60 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

features the Vallee De La Vanille or “Valley of Vanilla.”

We visited a vanilla plantation where the spice is harvested, dried and processed using centuries-old methods.

On Raiatea we visited Motu Pearl Village, where we learned that black pearls – rare and beautiful – are found only in Tahiti. Their cultivation is big business for the island’s economy, and oyster bed protection and preservation is especially important.

Time in Tahiti would be incomplete without an ocean frolic, in which I indulged off the white sand beaches of Bora Bora. I splashed chest deep in crystal clear warm waters and marveled at the majestic volcanic peaks that surrounded the lagoon. Just when I began to think this must be the most beautiful place on earth, a small gray shark brushed up against my knee. Friends teased that I was the closest thing they had ever seen to a man walking on water. Only the ship’s pool water for me for the remainder of the trip!

Once you experience the serenity of Tahiti and the calm waters of the Pacific, you understand why celebrities flock here to escape Hollywood’s hectic pace and why newlyweds select it as a honeymoon destination.

Make it fun.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, TAHITI! The Tahitian islands have a rich motion picture heritage – plus a strong Omaha connection. They entered American consciousness in 1932 with Charles Nordhoff and James Norman Hall’s novel "Mutiny of the Bounty," which chronicled the historic mutiny against British Royal Navy Lt. William Bligh.

Movie adaptations of the infamous event came to theaters in 1933, 1935 (Best Picture), 1962 (Best Picture nominee) and 1984. Omaha native and Academy Award winner Marlon Brando played Bligh in the 1962 version and was so taken with Tahiti that he retired there, living first on Hauhine and then leasing the private island of Tetiaroa from the Tahitian government. Since his death in 2004, the island has been developed into a luxury resort fittingly called The Brando. The fictional Bali Hai represents another of Tahiti’s famous Hollywood ties. It was the paradise mountain retreat that called out to American sailors in the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical "South Pacific," and although the movie was filmed in Hawaii, the mountain that depicted Bali Hai is on the Tahitian island of Moorea.

This isn’t just another day – it’s an adventure.

So make it your own.

Make this winter yours when you shop at our more than 60 specialty shops & restaurants.

168th & W Dodge Rd | 402.505.9773 VillagePointeShopping.com

(continued on page 62)

for the way you LOVE to live L et us be y our inspiration online

inspiredlivingomaha . com Photo: Jeffrey Bebee

inspiredlivingomaha.com 61

Visit our booth at the Omaha Home Show in February for show discounts.

(continued from page 61)

LIVING IN PARADISE Tahiti’s signature overwater bungalows (including one that Marlon Brando called home) were a popular point of interest throughout our tour. Three American hotel owners known as “The Bali Hai Boys” first built the structures by taking traditional local Polynesian grass huts and setting them on concrete stilts over mesmerizing lagoons. Today, most resorts feature these as luxurious bungalows, suites and villas.

TIMING TAHITI

Security • Privacy • Elegance

February, March and April are great months to visit. Summer is just beginning at this time of year in the South Pacific.

CRUISE TIPS When planning any cruise vacation know that your chosen cruise line will bombard you with land tour offers for each of your stops. These offerings include shopping tours, historical tours, nature tours, etc. Typically, tour descriptions include levels of physical exertion so you know what to expect. Tips from my travels for getting the most value for your money: 1. Review the cruise line’s promoted land tours and draw up a list of the top things you want to do and see.

2. Talk with local tour operators who approach you on the pier as you leave your ship and compare their offerings to your list and the ship’s excursion pricing.

3. Be comfortable with the tour operator’s command of English. (A great tour with a low price is of no value if you can’t understand your guide’s commentary.)

4. Share a van with fellow travelers from your ship. If the port-of-call is small, invest in a $2 city map, find your points of interest and walk. You will get a great flavor of your destination and some needed exercise in light of the bountiful food provided on all cruise ships.

402.333.5722 • WWW.SW-FENCE.COM 62 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

The writer is twice retired from careers in telecommunications and online retail sales. He currently works part time as a travel professional and senior sales associate for Landmark Luggage at One Pacific Place. His passion for cruising has taken him around the world.

F O R T H E WAY Y O U LO V E TO L I V E. Watkins Concrete Block Company

find y our inspiration .

Design your backyard at the Watkins Designer Showroom. With the largest selection of quality landscape materials, Watkins can make your dreams a reality.

inspiredlivingomaha . com

144th & Giles Rd. 402-896-0900 watkinsconcreteblock.com

Lauritzen Gardens Gift Shop

A distinctive selection of nature-inspired gifts, home & garden décor, books, tools, stationery, jewelry & more. Bring the pleasures of the garden home.

100 Bancroft St. 402-346-4002, ext. 250 lauritzengardens.org

Freshly Organized

Faces Spa

The Quintessential Day Spa. Massage-Body Treatments Manicures & Nail Treatments Facials & Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion 84th & West Center 402-384-8400 facesspa.com

Storage Concepts

Ehly’s Interiors

Mention this ad and get $2 off per yard of fabric. Call for details.

Family owned and operated for 39 years.

2312 Bob Boozer Dr. 402-330-6557 ehlysinteriors.com

Textiles

Live Simply & See the Difference.

Restore order to your home & learn to work more efficiently. Make an appointment today with Omaha's professional organizing team.

Our beautifully crafted organizers complement a range of storage spaces in timeless colors integrated throughout your home.

Consultations always complimentary.

Have it all.

Interior design.

Custom upholstery.

Drapery and wallpaper.

Bernhardt furniture.

402-670-3271 freshlyorganized.com

8052 H St. 402-592-7752 storageconceptsinc.com

149th & Industrial Road 402-399-8764 textilesinteriors.com

GET NOTICED: CONTACT US TODAY TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS IN INSPIRED Living OMAHA; 402-444-1209.

inspiredlivingomaha.com 63

END NOTE

Interiors Joan & Associates Custom color Ceiling, page 31

Interiors Joan & Associates Custom color Writing Desk, page 39

Sherwin-Williams “Divine White” SW 6105 Trim, page 13

Interiors Joan & Associates Custom ruby faux finish Wall, pages 14-15

Sherwin-Williams "Sundance" SW 6897 Walls, pages 36-37, 39

Benjamin Moore “Berkshire Beige” AC-2 Walls, page 17

Zodiaq "Snow Flurry" Countertops, page 38

Sherwin-Williams “Accessible Beige” SW 7036 Cabinets + trim, page 17

Sherwin-Williams “Nervy Hue” SW 6917 Walls, pages 34-35

Interiors Joan & Associates Custom color Island, page 28

Sherwin-Williams "Creamy" SW 7012 Walls, pages 26-27

Benjamin Moore “Steam” AF-15 Walls, pages 29, 32-33

Zodiaq "Storm Grey" Countertops, page 28

Benjamin Moore “Cottage Red” PM-15 Wall, page 13

HanStone Quartz by Hanwha “Slice of Ice” CW102 Countertops, page 35

Sherwin-Williams “Humorous Green” SW 6918 Walls, pages 30, 38

64 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

Inspiration • Innovation • Ideas

Professional Designers to help you express your style—

nfm.com 700 South 72nd Street • Omaha, NE 402-255-6327 • 800-359-1200 ©2016 Nebraska Furniture Mart, Inc.

• • • • • • •

Bernhardt Century Drexel Heritage Henredon Hancock & Moore Lexington Home Brands Thomasville and more...

ce. n e g i l l e t Brute in

on know you’re Audi A6 to de the new u’re in si yo in e iz ok al lo re ve to u do, you’ll You don’t ha nced But once yo citing ride. ce and adva ex an of sp pe d rforman le the cu va ri un ri ve r s it suppor t,* d more. With ri® Eyes Free Si for so much e bl di A6 la ai Au av ection, the es , such as 4G LTE conn technologi t as i A6. af tr ud A ul d ing the new features an assistance ful. Introduc er w po be gence can proves intelli

ns . e all give Challeng

AudiOmaha.com • 402.393.7000 808 N 102nd St. Omaha, NE *Requires compatible Apple iOS device. Standard text and data usage rates apply. Always pay careful attention to the road, and do not drive while distracted. The features and technologies discussed are optional, may require an additional subscription with separate terms and conditions, and should be used only when it is safe and appropriate. “Audi,” “Truth in Engineering,” all model names, and the four rings logo are registered trademarks of AUDI AG. “Siri” is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. ©2015 Audi of America, Inc.