Inspired Living Omaha - March-April 2021

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1

MARCH/APRIL 2021

•

VOLUME 19

•

ISSUE 2

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Christen 402-444-1094 | chris.christen@owh.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Marjie Ducey 402-444-1034 | marjie.ducey@owh.com

DESIGNER April Burford

COPY EDITOR Betsie Freeman ON THE COVER Home of Lorrie and Andy Williams Photographed by Anders Creative Co.

CONSIGNMENT

Furniture & Home Decor

CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS Kiley Cruse, Christine Zueck Watkins, Kurt A. Keeler, Julia Russell CUSTOM PUBLISHING SALES COORDINATOR Nick Cavallaro 402-444-1202 | nick.cavallaro@owh.com EVENTS Tam Webb 402-444-3125 | tam.webb@owh.com

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contents EDITOR’S NOTE 6

CASA BEAUTIFUL

DESIGN DONE RIGHT 8

AT HOME, TOGETHER

HISTORIC GEMS 16

DRAWN BY THE DETAILS: SOLD ON JOHN MCDONALD HOMES

17 20 22

STATELY BUT A LITTLE SNUG PLENTY OF ROOM TO GROW A FRENCH TWIST

BEFORE + AFTER 24

8

A SHADE DIFFERENT

HOMESPIRATION 30

IN PRAISE OF YELLOW

SPEAKING OF PLANTS 37

HOSTA HEARTBREAK

30

RECIPES 39 41

CHERRY PULL-APART PIE CREAMY HEAVEN TORTELLINI

DESTINATION 43 44

A TALE OF TWO HOTELS

16

HOTEL MILLWRIGHT: WOOLEN MILL REVIVAL

46

THE HIGHLANDER: GROOVIN’ AGAIN

24

4

MARCH/APRIL 2021

39

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5

DANIEL JOHNSON

COURTESY OF BETTER HOMES & GARDENS REALTY

EDITOR’S NOTE

BEFORE AND AFTER

In the en suite bath, a 1980s-era remodel heavy on blue-and-white felt cramped and dated. The renovated space features a vintage Macassar Ebony dressing table sourced in London and new double vanity by Wood Specialties. Green Heron wallpaper by Gucci. Lighting by Kelly Wearstler and Ralph Lauren.

Casa Beautiful I FIRST MET MARK and Mikal

Mikal with a request to check out the

At press time, we were awaiting

Eckstrom in 2015 for a cover story on

property. They did one better and led

results of Readers’ Choice voting in

their newly renovated

Jason and Simone on a

Luxe magazine’s 2021 RED Awards,

Regency townhome. They

FaceTime tour.

where Maison MxM was competing

poured their obsessive-

Jason, who has a high degree of

that project, and I’ve

architectural prowess

family crest featuring two interlocking

been mesmerized by their

(Google Seattle’s “Zipper

S’es in a quatrefoil with a corner star

interior design pursuits

House”), loved what he

for each family member. The crest

ever since.

saw enough to suggest

graces everything from china and

that the couple abandon

glassware to a fabulous rug for the

their Seattle project.

salon. Equally innovative: A Fornasetti

Back in 2017, when we discovered that we’d all be in London at the same

CHRIS CHRISTEN

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

time, we had to arrange a meetup. We had our Instagram moment at The Woolpack, not far from Tower Bridge and The Shard. Mark’s high school pal, Jason Sutton, was there, too.

He had just relocated to London from Seattle, soon to be joined by his wife

mural on an arched ceiling in the

“We had to sell her on

primary bedroom suite and Gucci

the idea of living here,” Jason says.

Nebraska’s wide open spaces cinched the deal. Simone is an equestrian.

The Suttons made an offer contingent on closing in six business days.

“It was all about hitting our anniversary date,” Jason says. “We also

for two years of living abroad.

were walking away from a big, big home

In April 2019, the Suttons were

What’s remarkable is that Maison MxM is a side hustle for the Eckstroms.

Neither is formally trained in architectural or interior design.

“We’re always working for friends,” Mark says. They may be branching out with their exposure in Luxe’s RED

online real estate listing in Omaha

— who design under the name Maison

caught Jason’s eye. It was for a

MxM — as creative partners for a

Spanish Colonial Revival in Dundee, a

5,600-square-foot makeover, dubbed the

neighborhood with “magical appeal” for

Casa SxS project.

MARCH/APRIL 2021

“We try to take deep dives when a project allows,” Mark says.

country move.”

The couple enlisted the Eckstroms

Jason’s first call was to Mark and

herons on walls in the en suite bath.

project and making a massive cross-

home in the Seattle area when an

the native Nebraskan.

In the category of brilliant: A custom

Simone wasn’t so sure.

Simone and their two young children

about to break ground on a high-end

6

with the Sutton project.

compulsive hearts into

“We had a year to-the-day to finish,” Mark says. “It was unbelievable.”

competition.

Stay tuned for the rest of the story — coming soon. We promise!

DANIEL JOHNSON

MOOD BOARD

MAISON MXM

FAMILY CREST

MAISON MXM

COURTESY OF MAISON MXM

MAISON MXM

COWHIDE RUG DESIGN

BEFORE AND AFTER

The home’s yellow exterior and landscaping got a makeover, too, for enhanced curb appeal. A crisp white exterior sets the stage for the home’s interior palette of black, white, blue, and green. omaha.com/inspiredliving

7

DESIGN DONE RIGHT

At home, together STORY

PHOTOGRAPHY

MARJIE DUCEY

HALLIECLARE PHOTOGRAPHY & ANDERS CREATIVE CO.

Ranch floorplan is the perfect answer for couple and her parents 8

MARCH/APRIL 2021

T

hree years ago, Lorrie and Andy Williams built a villa that was supposed to be their forever home.

“You are only going to drag me out

of here to a nursing home or a funeral home,’’ Lorrie remembers saying. “I’m not moving again.’’

Several factors converged to make her change her mind.

Lorrie’s mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and Lorrie wanted to be more available to help her parents. The couple, who love to entertain, realized they only had room to feed eight. The

villa was just too small.

Last March, they found another

new fireplace and lots of natural light, the already updated basement was perfect for

possibility — a ranch in Huntington Park

Lorrie’s parents. They only had to add a

in northwest Omaha. Although there was

kitchenette in what had been a regulation

a little too much brick on the exterior

dart alley.

for Lorrie’s taste, the interior had the

The basement had its own zero-entry

potential to be everything they needed,

from the fourth garage bay, so the two

with some major work.

couples would have complete privacy when

That didn’t scare Lorrie, a partner and owner of Fluff Interior Design.

She was excited about turning it into

they want it or could easily see each other “It’s perfect for multi-generational living,’’ Lorrie says. “I just love it and

and her parents.

love having them with us during this

bedrooms, a laundry room, a living room, a

While the exterior wasn’t everything Lorrie Williams wanted in a home, the interior had potential to be the family’s next “forever home.” Lorrie’s parents even would have lower-level space to call their own.

for meals and conversations.

a new forever home for her and Andy With its two full baths, two large

A DESIGNER’S DREAM

season of their life.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 omaha.com/inspiredliving

9

LIGHT & AIRY

A floating wall anchors the great room and creates openness at the same time. The big windows also keep the space light and airy while bringing the outside in.

ENTRY

A canvas with a saying by Tolkien, in the entry. Lorrie Williams says they are a family of readers.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

She and Andy lived in the basement

MARCH/APRIL 2021

flooring, redid the laundry room and

for 4½ months while they tackled the

guest bathroom, replaced doors and trim

upstairs remodel and the addition of the

throughout and gutted the kitchen and

kitchenette in the basement.

master bath.

With the help of David Thoms

The remodeled kitchen now includes

Construction, they renovated every

an 8-foot-plus island and a large custom

room on the main floor except for two

farmhouse table.

bedrooms.

They removed the wall between

10

the headers on doorways, added wood

“The island will be a fabulous and functional feature when we can entertain

the kitchen and living room, leaving

again,” Lorrie says.

a fireplace in between. They raised

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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A COOK’S DREAM

The remodeled kitchen is designed for entertaining.

Lorrie Williams stands at the island, her favorite feature. It stretches 8 feet, giving the family added seating, storage and counter space.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

A walk-in shower with body sprays replaced a dated cloverleaf tub in the master bath. A custom vanity and tower built by Thoms adds stylish and abundant storage space.

A black shiplap accent wall in the master bedroom is a custom touch that Lorrie loves.

The Williamses had originally planned to wait to redo the master bath, but Thoms convinced them it would be smarter to do everything at once.

Lorrie is glad he did: It’s now one of her favorite spaces.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

BONUS PHOTOS ONLINE! SEE MORE FROM THIS PROJECT, OMAHA.COM/INSPIREDLIVING

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

With the interior done, Lorrie would like to tackle the red brick exterior. She’s just not sure what they want to do to tone it down.

“My husband isn’t on board yet, but I really want to paint the brick,’’ she says. “Many people love the natural brick, but it’s so much red.

I’m from Texas and I also love brick but this is a lot.”

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

MASTER SUITE

Black shiplap brings contemporary and classic furnishings together in the master bedroom. The theme continues In the master bath with marbled and hexagon tilework as the focal point.

LAUNDRY ROOM

New cupboard doors, flooring and lighting transformed this hard-working space.

HEIRLOOMS AND

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COMFORTABLE LIVING KITCHENETTE The living area in the lower level gets lots of light. “It’s really cozy,’’ Lorrie says. Her parents live in the space.

The cooking area created for Lorrie’s parents had been a dart alley.

POST-PANDEMIC DESIGN: FLOOR PLANS MAY BE CHANGING Lifestyle changes during the coronavirus pandemic could affect how people design their homes in the future.

“The desire to have a completely open floor plan is fading,’’ says Lorrie Williams of Fluff Interior Design.

That’s because with the virus, families are spending more time together at home.

Parents may need a quiet place to work while kids are doing remote schooling or making noise in the kitchen.

For the Williamses, a floating wall provides the perfect amount of separation between the living

room and kitchen.

While considering your options, Lorrie recommends working with an interior designer to make sure your needs are met, not just now but in the future.

“Whether it’s new construction or a remodel, a poor floor plan or the wrong finish choices can really impact the value of your house,’’ she says.

“I think a lot of people live with house regrets. When you are already investing tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, it makes so much sense to make sure you are going to love it when it’s done.” omaha.com/inspiredliving

15

HISTORIC GEM

DRAWN

BY THE

details FIELD CLUB

Owners of houses designed

by John McDonald strive to be good stewards

F

STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOGRAPHY YAYLE RONCKA STUDIOS, MARY KATE KAWACZ/NP DODGE

amed Omaha architect John McDonald didn’t just design castles.

McDonald was good friends with George Joslyn and was asked to

develop his estate, now known as Joslyn Castle. But he and his son Alan are also responsible for a long list of homes and businesses in the Omaha area.

Diane Hughes has been involved in the sale of three McDonald houses in the past

GOLD COAST

three years. One sold before it was put on the market and the other two sold on the same day they were listed with her Agency Group at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate.

Hughes lives in west Omaha and would have a McDonald house herself if her husband would only agree. Instead, she lives vicariously through each one she helps to sell.

She says well-maintained midtown homes with the pedigree of McDonald are in high demand. “It’s the craftsmanship.

Nobody builds a house like that anymore.

Nobody.’’

Here’s a look at the McDonald trio that recently changed hands.

DUNDEE 16

MARCH/APRIL 2021

STATELY BUT A LITTLE SNUG

D

avid and Elizabeth Schroeder

white pine was brought in from Oregon

time it was big enough for their family.

brought a John McDonald

to replicate the decking; dormers were

David also liked the masculine feel,

fixer-upper in the Field Club

added; the sewer line was replaced; and

especially the woodwork, craftsman details

neighborhood in 2008 and

heating and cooling were added to the

and fireplace and mantel.

two days later launched into $200,000 in repairs and updates. They didn’t move in until 2009.

The front porch was torn off and restored as were the columns; special clear

third floor.

Elizabeth says the architectural details

“That’s just the big stuff,’’ David says.

are consistently beautiful in a McDonald

Hand-scraping and painting the

house, but they didn’t know it was one of

3,229-square-foot house cost about $37,000.

They bought the home because at the

his at first.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 omaha.com/inspiredliving

17

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

“It had the style and character we were looking for,’’ David says. “It wasn’t until

work they had planned to do when a larger Gold Coast home became available.

“The floor plan was nice until you got

after we bought it, we realized it was

a lot of people in there, and then it got a

designed by McDonald.”

little tight,’’ David says of their decision

They were about 90% done with the

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

to sell.

WHAT CAUGHT THE BUYER’S EYE The featured photos were taken at the time of the house’s most recent sale and do not represent the current furnishings or decor.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

19

PLENTY OF ROOM TO GROW

T

he Schroeders closed on their

this one has a lovely staircase and a

livestock and gardens, and they’ll have to

current Gold Coast home last

gorgeous front porch. The living spaces

keep it properly drained.

November. With more than

are well designed with lots of natural

6,000 square feet of living

light coming from big windows, some of

home now has a lot of modern amenities,

them arched.

including heated kitchen and bathroom

space, it’s ideal for their family of eight.

Five kids, ages 7 months to 12 years, are living at home.

“The new home is exactly like our old home, just a larger footprint,’’ Elizabeth

“Every time we looked at a modern home, we just didn’t like them as well,’’ Elizabeth says.

But David said buying an old house isn’t

Although built in 1909, the historic

floors. The carriage house has been converted into livable space.

“We have been lucky. Each John McDonald house we’ve owned has had

says. It has a formal entry, dining and

for the faint of heart. There are always

good stewards,’’ David says. “We always

living rooms and a large finished kitchen.

surprises, such as the huge cistern they

have stewards before us and we try

“We didn’t have that in our old house.’’

discovered buried in the backyard. They

to do it with each house. It’s kind of a

think it was once used to hold water for the

responsibility.’’

As with their previous house, she says,

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

DEJA VU

It was a case of deja vu when the current owners walked through this grand John McDonald home, shown at the time of its sale.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

21

A FRENCH TWIST IN DUNDEE

A

my Grace loves all things

The stairway bannister stretches

French, and the French

continuously to all three floors. There are

colonial caught her eye when

lots of cool wood moldings. Best of all,

she and husband Kelly were

though, is the expanded kitchen, which

moving back to Omaha from California

can easily host Kelly’s large extended

in 2006.

family that includes 16 grandchildren.

“It was beautiful but in really bad shape,’’

They’ve hosted 27 for Thanksgiving with

Amy says. “I was five months pregnant. We

no problem, which Amy says is exactly why

did not have the time or money.’’

they wanted the house.

After growing to a family of five, the

They’ve begun updates of their own.

couple pounced when the house became

The roof was replaced in a gray-blue color.

available in 2018, just three blocks from

Amy’s mom spent days scraping nine coats

their previous and now too-small Dundee

of paint from the front door, now a slate

home. The necessary updates had been

of the homes he had done. I loved it,’’

blue. Shutters have been added to give the

done, including a $100,000-plus kitchen

Amy says.

naked house some badly needed eyebrows.

renovation.

“I knew about John McDonald’s architecture. I had no idea this was one

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

As with the other two houses, it has a

“Everybody kind of knows this house,’’

carriage house that the Graces rent out to

Amy says. “It’s been fun to try to take care

a college student.

of it and improve it.’’

FROM RAGS TO RICHES

These images show how the interior of Amy and Kelly Grace’s home looked when they put an offer on it. The former owners had done a lot of restorative work, which the Graces are continuing.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

23

BEFORE

BEFORE

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

BEFORE + AFTER

A shade different It’s a Cinderella story, from pumpkin to contemporary beauty

K

STORY MARJIE DUCEY PHOTOGRAPHY ANNA REED

ris Freeman called her husband, Rob, back in 2016 and delightedly told him, “I think I’ve found our dream home.’’

She was house-hunting for the couple,

who were returning to Omaha from Denver. Rob told her to submit an offer, even though he hadn’t seen it. After 36 years of marriage, he trusted her instincts.

“I just saw openness and airiness. It has such great light,’’ Kris says. “It’s like living in a snow globe. Every window offers a piece of art.’’

There was just one tiny problem.

The house was orange, inside and out.

“The soaring ceilings, the woodwork and all of the oak cabinetry screamed of the ’80s,’’ she says. “It was a country-ski lodge hodgepodge” in dire need of an update.

But combine the architecture of the 3,000-square-foot

LIVING ROOM

The living room is Kris and Rob Freeman’s favorite place to hang out.

“It’s cozy,” she says. A stack of windows behind the sectional facing the fireplace offers views into the sunroom.

DINING ROOM

Kris went with a monochromatic color scheme for the whole house and knew she wanted a white dining room table. She found this one at Rush Market.

house − with its striking lines and good bones − plus more than an acre lot filled with 200-year-old oak trees, a guest house and a glorious view, and Kris knew they could make it stunning.

“I had a vision in my head that it could be a beautiful contemporary house,’’ she says.

Kris, a retired teacher, had always been interested in architecture, so she drew up the plans. Rob and a friend, Ralph Maynes, both electricians, brought that vision to life.

They completed all of the carpentry and electrical work during an 18-month renovation. The Freemans were their own general contractors, hiring help where needed.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

omaha.com/inspiredliving

25

KITCHEN

Kris loves the soaring ceilings in the kitchen.

High windows bring in lots of natural light.

26

MARCH/APRIL 2021

BEFORE

BEFORE

KITCHEN

Kris couldn’t wait to demolish a wall that blocked off the dining room.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

Sprucing up the outside was the first

EXTERIOR

The reddish brown exterior had to go.

Along with it, a wooden deck that impeded the growth of a tree.

With all the trees and wildlife, the gardens they’ve had at previous houses

PLANTER

The home’s multiple levels create ledges perfect for plants in whimsical pots.

went to the upper floor was in that wall,’’ she said.

priority. The orange is gone, replaced with

weren’t possible. Kris planted 500 to

gray hues. The main house, guest house

700 hostas, which the deer treat as an

Rob was a genius in figuring out how to

and shed received several coats of Sherwin

open salad bar. Birds flit around their

rewire everything.

Williams Peppercorn Gray for the base and

bird feeders.

SW Argos for the trim. New glass garage

The couple lived in the guest house

Electricity or not, it had to go. Kris said

Because of leaks, most of the walls and vaulted ceiling on the second level were

doors, exterior doors and lights brought the

during the interior renovation. Kris had to

taken down to the studs. A long hallway

home’s exterior up to date.

laugh when she talked about the kitchen

from the master bedroom to a laundry

redo. She couldn’t wait to get rid of a wall

room was eliminated to gain living space.

Sherwin Williams colors. A third gray,

On the inside, they used those same

at the end of the island that divided the

They removed a deck off the master

Passive, appears on the main walls. Argos

kitchen from the dining room.

bedroom that had caused leaks down a

is used in the stairways; Peppercorn gives the great room cabinetry depth.

“I took a sledge hammer to that thing, and every single bit of electricity that

living room wall.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 omaha.com/inspiredliving

27

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

Now, with the renovation mostly complete, they spend most of their time in that living room, Kris says.

“We put in a gas fireplace as opposed to having to bring the wood in. We just flip the switch and there we are,’’ Kris says.

“It’s a cozy place to be. We both like the outdoors. In the summer and spring, we like to be outside. We have a big deck in the back.’’

The Freemans are in their 60s, and hope they can enjoy the house for many years despite its many stairs. Their dream would be to someday retire to the guest house (which has a heated five-car garage underneath) and have either son Jordan or daughter Ashley move into the main house.

The property, located north of Omaha, is a lot of work. They joke that the upkeep, inside and out, is keeping them young.

“This house needed us,’’ Kris says.

SUNROOM

“People when they visit say this is where they would hang out all the time,’’ Kris says

SAUNA

The sauna, originally in the master bedroom suite, was dismantled boardby-board and reconstructed in the lower level of the home.

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

ART

Artwork by Kris hangs throughout the house. She took some art classes at Metro Community College after retiring from teaching

MASTER BEDROOM

There had been an open balcony overlooking the great room. It was removed to gain living space. A gliding barn door separates the bedroom and bathroom.

The ceiling slants dramatically toward clerestory windows.

LOWER LEVEL

The lower level features a wet bar, comfy seating and a small exercise room and sauna built for two.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

29

In

HOMESPIRATION

praise OF yellow P

TEXT + PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS CHRISTEN DESIGN CHRISTINE ZUECK WATKINS

antone has long predicted and influenced interior design trends with its color of the year. For a dose of strength and positivity during the pandemic, its color experts announced two picks for 2021:

“Illuminating,” a punchy yellow, and “Ultimate Gray,” a steely classic.

After a year of sheltering in place and mask wearing, who isn’t eager for a smiley face hue?

Interior Designer Julia Russell is all for it.

“Yellow is the light at the end of the tunnel,” she says.

“It’s hope for a future without confinement.”

And the perfect opportunity to bring the outdoors in.

“Imagine a lemon tree in your yard. You can almost smell the color! That’s what it’s like to bring yellow into a room. It’s refreshing, clean and crisp.”

Russell’s advice: Don’t be cowardly. Let the saucy hue empower you.

“Think of yellow as that burst of energy we sometimes need to get through the day,” she says.

Yellow also is a quick way to brighten all those grays we’ve injected into our interiors in recent years.

ABOVE Fabrics and wallpapers: Zoffany “Deco Deer,” Molly Mahon “Fern,” Robert Allen “Folk Vine,” Schumacher/Molly Mahon “Leaf,” Clarke & Clarke “Empire Chartreuse;” courtesy of Julia Russell Interiors.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Hortus “Cow Paisley” by Graham & Brown, grahambrown.com.

“I hear all too often from new clients who went with gray and now are longing for some warmth,” Russell says. “What these clients are missing is the friendly feeling of home.”

Pops of yellow can achieve that. The combination of gray and yellow is both grounding and uplifting, says the designer, who owns Julia Russell Interiors.

For those who still need convincing: Yellow doesn’t have to be bright. You’ll find plenty of variations in mustard and other subdued earth tones. Here, we offer a splash of inspiration.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

omaha.com/inspiredliving

31

DESIGNER TIPS

Source: Julia Russell, Julia Russell Interiors • Start small with an accent pillow, a throw, an area rug or wall art. For a sunnier lift, consider wallpaper, paint or upholstery.

• In a white or gray kitchen with lots of natural light, yellow creates crisp and clean energy. Pull in chairs in a sunny shade and roll out a runner with a bright yellow pattern. At the very least, display lemons in a bowl and yellow tulips or sunflowers in a vase.

• The powder room is the one space where you have complete license to go crazy. The smaller the area, the bigger and bolder you can be. Invite an intoxicating yellow to the party! Lemon shots anyone?

“Horizon” and “Hortus” wallpaper by Graham & Brown; textile pattern play featuring Molly Mahon “Fern” wallpaper, Fabricut embroidered “Sun and Moon,” Clarke & Clarke “Salvini Chartreuse” and Kate Spade New York “Antique Blue” velvet; coordinating Zoffany Rakugaki Ink/Tigers Eye abstract print fabric.

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

“Transparent Gold” wall mural from wallsauce.com; “Hix” quilted fabric by Schumacher, Anna French floral embroidered “Symphony Brunello,” Schumacher’s “Camille” embroidered leaf and “Jackie” floral applique. Also: Botanical-inspired textiles from Thibaut, Clarke & Clarke, Molly Mahon and Zoffany, all courtesy of Julia Russell Interiors, juliarusselldesigns.com.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

33

DESIGNER TIPS

• Step up your home’s curb appeal with a bright yellow front door. Continue the theme with decorative pots of annuals in marigold, deep cerulean and coral and a welcome mat with a pop of yellow.

• Yellow can have a huge impact on a dark and drab room. Pounce on any chance to inject an animal print in a golden tone. Think cheetah, leopard — even tiger stripes.

“Fineapple”

“Lioness”

“Acacia”

“Funkytown”

Barbara Elza Hirsch for Dowel Royale wing chair, dowelfurniturecompany.com; Stout Sponsor trim, estout.com; Lioness paints by Graham & Brown, grahambrown.com; textile inspiration featuring Molly Mahon “Marwari Horse” wallpaper, Clarke & Clarke velvet and Robert Allen embroidered fabrics courtesy of Julia Russell Interiors, juliarusselldesigns.com; Graham & Brown room vignette of Lioness “Acacia” paint and “Horizon” wallpaper in mustard.

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

DESIGNER TIPS

• Subtle shades of gray and yellow can bring layers of comfort to a bedroom. Create a calming backdrop with a soft neutral on walls and bedding. For accent, try an embroidered bed scarf, decorative pillow or window treatment with a touch of mellow yellow or gold. Add shine and dimension with metallic or mirrored elements in a variation of gray.

• The vibrancy of yellow in a sunroom is naturally contrasted by the green in your landscape. Add blue or another complementary color in a fabric or wallpaper with vibrant birds or flowers. On a patio or deck, create a neutral foundation with your furniture and accessorize with yellow as your brightest accent.

“Soul Birds Cockatoo” mural and “Grey & Mustard Watercolour” wallpaper, both from wallsauce.com. Shown with swatches of blues and greens pulled from the mural.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

35

LUXURY HOMES

1206 N 136 Avenue $2,699,000 Prime location in the heart of Linden Estates. Former Y2K Symphony Showhouse. Elevator, coffee bar, vantage lighting system, endless wave pool indoor, complete handicapped accessible home ready for the mother in law. Sunken theatre room, indoor sports court, indoor designer children’s playroom with 2 levels, outdoor full tennis court that converts to full court basketball or raise the net and play volleyball then jump in your $350k+ New Wave Pools Ecosmart pool.

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LocaL. UniqUe. originaL.

From exterior to interior, the lure of this property’s rich history and impeccable beauty make it extraordinarily enchanting from the start. Built in 1930 as the original farmhouse of Fairacres, this quintessential four-bedroom and six-bathroom home has elegantly transformed with two additions, while still holding tight to its charming past.

Sitting on a 1.24 acre lot, this 6,500 square foot home features a winding driveway, updated kitchen, a luxury master suite and bath, and expansive yards with flawlessly crafted landscape.

Fine Art, Custom Glass, Bronzes & Jewelry

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19253 Ruggles Circle Indian Creek Landing $515,000

2610 N. Main St. Elkhorn, NE 68022 402.452.3088 mainstreetstudios2610.com 36

MARCH/APRIL 2021

Denton – Erickson Group 402-917-3227

Brand new 4 bedroom walkout Ranch with a premier lot location on cul-de-sac in Indian Creek Landing. Split Ranch floorpan w/ 2 bedrooms on righ side of home and master on the left side behind the kitchen. Master has 2 huge closets, en-suite bathroom with double sinks and massive shower. The open great room & kitchen features hand scraped wood floors, designer light fixtures, custom painted cabinets, granite island counter top w/ wine refrigerator, stainless steel appliances, double oven & gas cooktop. 3 garage spaces. Lower level with 4th bedroom w/ full bath, office & bar w/ wine refrigerator. Photos are of similar home. Home is under construction and complete this April.

SPEAKING OF PLANTS

hosta HEARTBREAK

K

LILY SMITH

Gardener dreads saying goodbye to her extensive collection

arin Moyer says it’s going to break her heart to leave

shade and west sun gardens.

Last year, she added only five or six

her house and hosta garden

new plants, knowing that a move is on the

behind.

horizon and also because she’s running

More than 129 species,

“I’d like to take them all with me,’’ she says.

Hostas became her go-to plant because

out of room. She and Paul,

they grow well in

cultivators and sports

who is 80, say they want to

Nebraska and have

surround her Dundee home.

downsize and possibly cross

few problems.

The east side had only one

the river to Iowa or move to

Gardening

clump in 1995, when she

Florida to save on property

becomes tougher

and her husband, Paul,

taxes.

with age, and

moved in.

A ground-floor condo

“The rest of the area was blank,’’ she says. “I just started filling in. Then I just got stupid after that.’’

That’s Moyer’s way of

MARJIE DUCEY

SPEAKING OF PLANTS

she’s glad that

would be perfect, she says,

with her hostas she just

so that she can bring some of

has to do some cleanup

her plants along.

in the spring. They thrive

One of her favorite varieties, Blue Mouse Ears,

saying she became a hosta addict. She’ll

does well in pots. Right now, she has

dig up one of her more common hostas,

the miniatures planted in a rock garden

such as the Royal Standard, to make way

with some gnomes, which delight the

for something new. She also has deep

neighborhood children.

with some watering the rest of the growing season.

She also has to deal with slugs and rabbits at times.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 38 omaha.com/inspiredliving

37

ADOBE STOCK

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

For slugs, she uses sand, crushed rock or crushed eggshells. The eggshells also are a good fertilizer. Cayenne pepper or

hosta and where it’s planted. She also

If a hosta isn’t doing well, she’s not

notes the color, shape and size, growth

afraid to dig it up and move it to another

rate and parentage. Hostalibrary.org is a

location.

good resource.

Instead of going by what’s on the

Sometimes, if she needs space, she’ll dig up a few and put them on the curb for the

garlic powder sprinkled on the leaves stops

plant’s greenhouse tag, she finds her own

taking. But she plans to leave the majority

rabbits. Vinegar takes care of weeds.

information about their light needs.

for the person who buys the house.

“I try to stay natural,’’ she says.

She keeps a written record of each

GOOD TO KNOW

A sport is a mutation of the original plant.

Its leaves are a different color from the rest of the hosta. “They just kind of pop up,’’ Karin Moyer says. One of her plants, Frances Williams, is a sport of the hosta Elegans.

If gardening is becoming harder for you, try these tips from John Porter and Scott Evans from the Nebraska Extension in DouglasSarpy Counties: • Move from in-ground to container or raised beds.

• Keep sentimental plants and let the others go.

• Move from higher input plants to more carefree options, such as roses to coneflowers, or annuals to perennials.

• Reduce the size of your garden by installing sod, ground cover or mulch.

• Install an irrigation system (drip or other) and use timers.

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

“Every one says shade or part shade,’’ she says. “That is not always true.’’

“I think it makes good curb appeal,’’ she says.

e v r u e p th S e‘ w

RECIPES

’ w o

In a pinch? This may be the easiest pie you’ll ever make

RECIPES

» Cherry Pull-Apart Pie (featured) Page 40 » ‘Creamy Chicken, Asparagus and Bacon Tortellini Page 41 omaha.com/inspiredliving

39

RECIPES

Cherry Pull-Apart Pie RECIPE PREPARATION + PHOTOGRAPHY

“BEAUTIFUL.” “AMAZING.” “How did you do that?”

This pull-apart pie is a head-turner,

KILEY CRUSE

INSTRUCTIONS 28 ounces refrigerated pie dough (2 packages)

1 cup cherry pie filling 1 egg white, beaten, optional

for sure. Yet, I’ve never created such a “wow” dessert with so little effort.

Using refrigerated pie crust and canned pie filling, it’s ready to serve in less than an hour. The recipe is adaptable to any fruit pie filling — even homemade.

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line an 8- or 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan with parchment paper. 2. On a work surface, roll out the pie dough. Using a 2-inch round cookie cutter (or similarly sized water glass), cut as many circles as possible from the dough. (I used three pie crusts in a 9-inch pan.) 3. Spoon one cherry from the pie filling and place in the center of a circle. Pick up the circle and pinch the ends together to make a boat shape. Place into the cake pan facing up. 4. Repeat for the remaining circles until the pan is full.

5. Brush dough with optional beaten egg white. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the edges turn golden. 6. Serve in the pan, or use a spatula to get beneath the parchment and transfer the pie onto a serving plate.

Note: The baking time can vary by product — check pie dough package directions for the baking temperature and time.

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

‘Creamy Heaven’ Gooey tortellini, bacon and asparagus. What’s not to like?

RECIPE PREPARATION + PHOTOGRAPHY KILEY CRUSE

EXPERIMENTING WITH new recipes has helped me break the monotony of family meal preparation during life in quarantine. This recipe jumped out at me on Pinterest. My family likes all the main ingredients, and the steps are simple enough for a weeknight meal. Sold!

I used a 19-ounce bag of frozen tortellini and about ¾ pound of fresh asparagus. I probably had more tortellini than the original recipe called for, but there was plenty of sauce and chicken for the dish. The additional pasta and asparagus made for five hearty servings.

The dish was an instant hit with my family. My daughter decided Creamy Chicken, Asparagus and Bacon Tortellini was a mouthful. She renamed it “Creamy Heaven.”

CREAMY CHICKEN, ASPARAGUS AND BACON TORTELLINI SERVES 4

INSTRUCTIONS 2 cups tortellini, uncooked ½ pound asparagus 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 pound chicken breast, chopped 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning ¼ teaspoon salt 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

1. Cook tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain. 2. While the tortellini is cooking, cook the asparagus as you prefer: steam it, saute it or boil it in hot water. I sauteed it, undercooking just slightly as it will cook more in the cream sauce. 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add chopped chicken breast, sprinkle generously with salt and Italian seasoning and cook the chicken, occasionally stirring, until it is completely cooked through. 4. In the skillet where you just cooked chicken, combine cooked tortellini, cooked asparagus, cooked chicken, and ² / ³ of the cooked bacon (reserving the rest of the bacon for later). 5. Add heavy cream. Bring to boil and simmer for 1-2 minutes, occasionally stirring. Sauce should thicken. Add shredded Parmesan cheese and stir well while the sauce is boiling. Remove from heat. 6. Top with the remaining chopped cooked bacon and serve.

Note: This dish reheats well in the microwave. In fact, it tasted just as good for lunch as it did for dinner the night before.

Adapted from juliasalbum.com

omaha.com/inspiredliving

41

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DESTINATION

REGIONAL TRAVEL

A tale of two storied hotels with eclectic charm STORY CHRIS CHRISTEN PHOTOGRAPHY KURT A. KEELER + CHRIS

W

CHRISTEN

e’ve all found our own spaces and activities to mentally survive the pandemic. My husband and I ventured from Omaha to east-central Iowa in mid-January for one-night stays at two new hotels that checked all the boxes for a safe and fun

weekend getaway.

The Highlander in Iowa City and Hotel Millwright in Amana both opened

in 2020, navigating a myriad of challenges presented by COVID-19. In some cases, that has meant temporary adaptations in guest services and amenities.

We weren’t put off by the economies and precautions. In fact, the minimalism reminded us of many of our European hotel stays. Turn the page for highlights of two worthy considerations for when it feels right for you to travel again. omaha.com/inspiredliving

43

Indigo dream Historic woolen mill inspires a blueprint for hospitality

I

STORY CHRIS CHRISTEN PHOTOGRAPHY KURT A. KEELER + CHRIS

CHRISTEN

’m a traveler who wants a lodging

millwrights who designed and maintained

experience as interesting as the

the Amana Woolen Mill, which still

destination. The richer the history,

operates elsewhere in the town. Weaving

the better. The Amana Society

has been a tradition in the Colonies since

delivers on both accounts with its 165-year-

1855 — the year German immigrants

old woolen mill, now a boutique hotel.

settled here.

The transformation of the historic

The original mill operated from 13

factory in Amana, Iowa, into Hotel

buildings; six remained when the Amana

Millwright was completed in September

Society started looking for a way to bring

2020. Opening during a pandemic turned

the unused factory back to life.

out better than expected for the destination

The main building of the Hotel

property.

Millwright houses 65 guest rooms and

“We’re off the beaten path and

three suites; there also are two studios in

considering we’re in the middle of a

a freestanding building. Event space is

pandemic, we’re doing fantastic,” says

abundant; the Merino Loft is the jewel with

Lucas Hayes, sales manager. “And it’s

its tall windows, exposed brick and warm

going to get better.”

A good share of guests are coming from

MURALS

structural timbers and flooring.

The hotel’s decor is a blend of mill

Historic photos and murals depict processes and people of bygone days.

artifacts and memorabilia, exposed

Colonies. Many guests have commented

coronavirus has pretty much shut down

modern industrial finishes. The mill’s

‘We wanted to get out of the house,’” Hayes

tourism. That makes it an ideal destination

trademark indigo blue stars in a palette of

says.

right now for people eager for a change of

blues, grays, taupe and white. The lobby —

scenery without the crowds.

once the mill’s boiler room — includes the

within a 40-mile radius of this east central Iowa community, the largest in the Amana

Amana is, in normal times, a popular destination for escorted bus tours. The

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

The hotel pays homage to the original

mechanical equipment and high-grade

base of the factory’s signature smoke stack

ROOMS

Guest room floor plans are unique. Amana Society rules prohibit the altering of historic features.

LOFT

The Merino Loft on the second floor of the historic weaving building is generating buzz. The sales manager reports fielding five to six inquiries a day for wedding receptions and other events.

AESTHETIC

Fans, drills and other Industrial-era machinery furnish spaces.

DINING

Oatmeal cakes made on the grill and finished under the broiler left us craving the recipe.

IF YOU GO

Hotel Millwright is situated near numerous shops, restaurants, craft breweries and wineries in this very walkable community.

Amana has a public golf course and a lake with a path for walking, biking or jogging.

This is a good location if you’re going to an Iowa football game. The stadium is 30 minutes away.

Advance reservations are recommended. Call 319-838-5015 or visit hotelmillwright.com with a cozy fireplace. The vibe is refined yet casual.

Guest amenities that scored high with us:

Room’s oatmeal cakes (that I have failed to replicate at home).

The Millwright offers a fast casual menu

• In-room beverage stations with single-

The hotel’s brand image also bowled

in the Indigo Room bar and cafe, and a fine-

serving coffee makers, coffee pods and tea,

me over. It’s beautifully executed, from

dining experience in a more intimate space.

sugar and cream.

keycards, to door hangers, to drink tickets

The Electric Thread whiskey bar serves

• Room-darkening shades.

and coasters. Every art element has a

craft cocktails from 2 to 5 p.m. Fridays

• LED lighted vanity mirrors.

direct tie to the mill.

and Saturdays. The bar top is an instant

• Pillow-top mattresses.

conversation piece. It features hand tools

• Tap keycard entry to rooms.

The “do-not-disturb” door hangers with

and small gears and parts captured within

• Electric vehicle charging stations.

vintage scenes and witty phrases are the

a 2-inch layer of clear urethane.

My favorite guest experience? The Indigo

best!

Some of it is designed to make you smile.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

45

FUNKY ART Canvas prints are different in every room.

Peace, love and a great bed.

Bell bottoms optional.

A regional landmark gets a groovy rehab

T

STORY CHRIS CHRISTEN PHOTOGRAPHY KURT A. KEELER + CHRIS

CHRISTEN

he Highlander in Iowa City

2018, the hotel lived up to its slogan,

was announced as The Bohemian Hotel.

is a 1960s-era landmark that

“Upscale in style. Laid back in spirit,”

The more she learned about the 86-room

has been given a new lease on

with a cleverly executed school-days

hotel and supper club, the more she felt its

life, thanks to an independent

theme. It’s the perfect spot for a business

original name should be retained.

owner-operator with vision and an affinity

conference, family reunion, retreat or

for old buildings with a story.

destination wedding. Three particularly

about the hotel,” Harrington says.

Angela Harrington completed her

“It’s insane. Everyone has a story

novel features: two bunk rooms that sleep

Documentation of those stories helped

first heavy lift in 2017 in Grinnell, Iowa,

10, a 376-seat auditorium and bikes for

her win a local landmark designation for

with the renovation of a sprawling two-

tooling the halls and the town.

the urban resort, which sits just north of

story school building that became Hotel Grinnell. When I visited for a story in

46

MARCH/APRIL 2021

When Harrington bought The Highlander in late December 2019, the retro revival

Interstate 80 at Exit 246.

The Highlander scored dead last on Trip

Advisor’s listing of Iowa City hotels when

is a huge plus for families. The atrium-like

Harrington assumed ownership. “It was

space is large and bright and has comfy

horrible,” she says, remembering the 16

deck furniture arranged in pods. Twelve

buckets catching water from leaky roofs

guest rooms on the perimeter of the pool

on her first walk-thru. “This week (mid-

have sliding doors and private patios for

January), we were No. 1. We’re feeling

direct access.

pretty spunky about that.”

COVID-related restrictions closed The

You’re likely to see locals here, too.

Day passes, for a fee, are available for

Highlander from mid-March 2020 to July

designated hours evenings and weekends.

4. The derecho that hit most of Iowa on

Rates include a poolside room for changing

Aug. 10 was a one-two punch, knocking

and hanging out.

out power.

Rather than close again, Harrington and

“This has always been a place for multigenerational experiences,” Harrington

her core team improvised with generators

says. “We’re starting to see girls trips,

and personal laptops. “We filled the

‘brocations’ and guests who say, ‘I just had

hotel with locals and disaster crews for

to get out of the house.’”

17 days,” doing everything themselves,

The Highlander may not be perfect –

from housekeeping to bartending to

yet – but Harrington and her team sure

maintenance.

have a groovy take on hospitality. And

The hotel has 65,000 square feet for

once this pandemic is behind us, the guest

guests to unplug, unwind and reconnect —

experience is gonna be totally rad.

a social distancer’s dream. The pool area

CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

GOOD VIBES

Velvet upholstered sofas and chairs are perfect for chillaxin’ in the pre-function area. Framed LP record album covers decorate the walls.

FLOWER POWER

The peace sign is The Highlander’s logo. Ask about buying a leaded glass version as a souvenir.

RIGHT ON

The Snack Shop menu is short on variety but long on flavor. Two hits: flatbread margherita pizza and cinnamon roll waffles.

CRAZY COOL

The garage door opens to a courtyard with individual seating pods and mini fire pits just off the pool deck.

FAR OUT, MAN

Murals in the bar, hallways and pool area were done by Thomas Agran, a local artist.

omaha.com/inspiredliving

47

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47

THE CLASSICS

NIFTY TOUCHES

• Record players and vinyl LPs, available for check out to your room.

• A giant white board for Pictionary and other drawing games in the lounge.

• Signage and swag with peace signs, trivia and 1970s lingo.

• Hallway floors painted in psychedelic lava lamp swirls.

COVID PRECAUTIONS

• Masks are required for staff and guests in public areas.

• Rooms are left open for 24 hours between guest stays.

• No-contact check in and check out; communication is via text and email.

• No room service or mid-stay housekeeping services.

• Fresh towels and linens and hair dryer available upon request.

• Mini refrigerator available upon request.

• Limited food and beverage service in the lounge and Snack Shack.

• No in-room coffee maker; high-end self-serve coffee station in Snack Shack.

GOOD TO KNOW

• There is no elevator so if mobility is an issue be sure to request a ground-floor room when making your reservation.

• Swimming is at your own risk; no lifeguard is on duty.

• Pets are welcome.

• Iowa City is home to the University of Iowa and that means eating establishments, bars and coffee shops galore in the downtown area. Shopping, too. For recreation, Coralville Lake is nearby. Lovers of wine and spirits should head to Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery about 10 miles from The Highlander. The tasting room is open daily, serving lunch and dinner, plus free flights of spirits and wine upon request.

Distillery tour available with advance reservation. Details at crwine.com.

Learn more about The Highlander by calling 319-354-2000 or emailing hello@highlanderhotel.us.

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2501 S. 90TH ST., SUITE 126 402-397-1100 MARKETBASKETOMAHA.COM

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Like our name, Beau Joyau is a “beautiful jewel.” Gorgeous jewelry. Stylish casual attire. Largest varied collection of Polish Pottery in the Midwest. Call or visit us on online to refresh your wardrobe and table settings with new merchandise.

We do windows! We repair blinds! Family owned and operated for over 43 years.

Full interior décor service; blinds, fabrics, drapery, upholstery, wallpaper and carpeting. Stop by our showroom to see the latest in décor fashions.

2947 S. 108TH ST., HILLTOP PLAZA 402-301-7103 BEAUJOYAU.SHOP

2312 BOB BOOZER DRIVE 402-330-6557 EHLYSINTERIORS.COM

NEW LIFE THRIFT Find designer, vintage, antiques, clothing and furniture. Call for pickup of your estate sale leftovers. Ranked Best Thrift Store in Nebraska by BestThingsNE.com. Back by popular demand: Holiday Store (now open 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Wed.-Sat.) with Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas merchandise.

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MARCH/APRIL 2021

THE MARKET BASKET

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