New Orleans Homes Autumn 2021

NEW ORLEANS HOMES & LIFESTYLES

AUTUMN 2021

AUTUMN ACCESSORIES

DESIGN MASTERS

DÉCOR INSPIRATION

DISPLAY UNTIL 11/30/2021

$6.95

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Contents F E AT U R E S New Build of the Year

The husband and wife team of Farouki Farouki creates their perfect urban nest 38

Color Me Beautiful

An historic French Quarter Townhouse gets a punchy makeover 46

Design Masters

Our annual celebration of New Orleans design industry professionals at the top of their game 52

Best of Home Winners

Our readers pick their favorite home design industry professionals in the city 64

STA N DA R D S Editor’s Note Sweater Weather 14

Design Diary News and Events 16

Style

Seasonal must haves of designer Whitney Jones 18

Get Organized

Make your workspace work for you 20

Artist Profile Ida Floreak 22

Bon Vivant

4 tips for creating a cozy reading nook 24

Gatherings

When it comes to the perfect oatmeal cookie, less is more 26

Home Grown Lime Sizzler Firebush 28

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Bright Ideas

Bringing in the five senses of fall with textures, scents, sights and sounds that evoke coziness and warmth 30

Price Mix Backyard fire pits 74

Expert Advice

Global decorative accents 32

Choosing the best hard surfaces to increase your home’s resale value 78

Home Renewal

Last Indulgence

Trendwatch

Pro tips for painting and maintaining the exterior of your home 70

Inspiration Board

Rich textures and warm colors for fall 72

Add extra pizazz with a chic accent chair 80

ON THE COVER The Lower Garden District home of husband and wife design team Sabri and Caroline Farouki is the stuff of the couple’s dreams. (p. 38) Photograph by Sara Essex Bradley

EDITOR’S NOTE NEW ORLEANS

HOMES Sweater Weather

AUTUMN 2021 / VOLUME 24 / ISSUE 3

EDITORIAL Editor Melanie Warner Spencer Creative Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Associate Editor Ashley McLellan Web Editor Kelly Massicot Contributing Writers Mirella Cameran,

AUTUMN IN THE SOUTH, especially New Orleans, starts out looking and feeling a lot like summer. But that doesn’t make me look forward to it any less. Perhaps it’s the joy of knowing the temperature will drop any time now and soon throw blankets, hot beverages and crisp evening walks will prevail.

This issue has afforded me the excuse to daydream about nights spent around the fire pit, infusing our space with the warm, spicy scents, colors and textures of fall and experimenting with seasonal dishes in the kitchen. The following pages have all of that and more.

That said, the offering I’m most excited about is having finally scored the recipe for my favorite cookie. The sweet, chewy, oatmeal crème sandwich from The Station in Mid-City is a guilty pleasure I happily drive nearly 4.5 miles to enjoy multiple times per month. I selfishly tasked “Gatherings” writer Margaret Zainey Roux with procuring it for the issue and she tackled it with her signature enthusiasm. My sincerest thanks go to the talented pastry chef and co-owner of The Station, Megan Walker, for sharing this dreamy confection with us. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Perfecting the recipe at home however won’t deter me from jaunts to Mid-City to pick up a few. Who wants to be stuck in the kitchen when we’ve waited all year long for sweater weather? Cheers!

Lee Cutrone, Fritz Esker, Eva Fedderly, Andy Myer, Misty Milioto, Margaret Zainey Roux Copy Editor Liz Clearman ADVERTISING Senior Account Executive

Brooke LeBlanc Genusa 504/830-7242 or Brooke@MyNewOrleans.com

RENAISSANCE PUBLISHING MARKETING Coordinator Abbie Dugruise PRODUCTION Designers Rosa Balaguer Arostegui,

Meghan Rooney CIRCULATION

Subscriptions Jessica Armand Distribution John Holzer ADMINISTRATION Office Manager Mallary Wolfe Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne For subscription information call (504) 828-1380

A Publication of Renaissance Publishing LLC Printed in USA 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 New Orleans Homes and Lifestyles, ISSN 1933-771X is distributed four times a year and published by Renaissance Publishing LLC, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005; (504) 828-1380. For a subscription visit on line at NewOrleansHomesandLifestyles.com.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Metairie LA and Additional Entry Offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005.

Copyright © 2021New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher.

The trademark New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Magazine is registered.

New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazines’ managers or owners.

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THERESA CASSAGNE PHOTO

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DESIGN DIARY

Eye on Architecture

Finely Crafted New Orleans-based lifestyle brand Elysian has added a new category to its curated Bespoke Home Goods Collection, which includes home linens, to now include the Bespoke Tableware Collection.

The selection of products features hand-painted ceramic tableware, handmade silk napkins, handmade silk placemats, made-to-order silk lampshades and hand-blown and -painted vases. Elysian’s bespoke designs can be made-to-order by working with the brand’s artisanal community in Istanbul to create multi-layer table settings and accessories. elysianbyem.com — COMPILED BY MISTY MILIOTO

Local author and architect, Robert J. Cangelosi Jr., has released a new addition to the New Orleans Architecture series, entitled “New Orleans Architecture: Volume IX: Carrollton” ($60, LSU Press).

Cangelosi, president and partner at Koch and Wilson Architects, wrote the tome as an essential reference guide to one of New Orleans’s most iconic Uptown neighborhoods.

Within its pages, Cangelosi documents the remarkable architectural history of the former city of Carrollton — once the seat of Jefferson Parish and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Available at The Garden District Book Shop, gardendistrict bookshop.com

Sustainable Shopping Vintage Green Review opened on Magazine Street as New Orleans’ first-ever zero-waste supply and bulk refill shop. In addition to being a resource for residents to reduce waste, customers can shop sustainable items and refill reusable containers with household and personal care products. The store’s owner, Sarah Andert, also offers zero-waste education and consulting services. vintagegreenreview.com

New Development The Stables Development, a vibrant work and play community designed by Bell Butler Architecture and Design, and developed

by Inhab Group, consists of four buildings across almost an entire city block. In addition to architecture and interior design firm, Farouki Farouki, the development’s new tenants include Luna Botanicals and The Tell Me Bar (a new wine bar concept).

Located on lower Magazine Street, The Stables features custom-milled doors and windows, a custom staircase and cabinetry

by Inhab Millworks, and collaborative outdoor work spaces. Additional retail and office space is still available for lease. thestableslgd.com

Swanky Stay The new Hotel Saint Vincent, located in a landmark 1861 building in the Lower Garden District that was once The Saint Vincent’s Infant Asylum, now features 75 newlydesigned guest rooms and lush public spaces. Guest rooms include luxe materials like deep red mohair, salmon-colored velvet curtains, red lacquer millwork and Carrara marble. The hotel’s design (by Lambert McGuire Design) remains true to the original architecture with elegant and modern updates that complement the property’s historic character. Expect 20th-century Italian design elements and hints of modern opulence combined with midcentury and art deco furnishings, lighting and rich materials. Other highlights include vintage 1970’s Murano glass chandeliers, custom furniture and commissions from local artists. The project’s partners — Liz Lambert and Larry McGuire (part owners whose companies are behind the design and operations) and Jayson Seidman and Zach Kupperman (part owners and developers) also included an interior courtyard with a Saltillo-lined swimming pool, outdoor verandas, an event center, two cocktail bars (The Paradise Lounge and a guest-only bar, The Chapel Club) and two fullservice restaurants (San Lorenzo and Elizabeth Street Café). saintvincentnola.com

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ST YLE

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Getting Personal

Pretty Pottery

A simple, earthy bowl is perfect for serving Mother Nature’s bounty and makes an artistic statement on its own. Rust and Sage Rimmed Studio Bowl, sundayshop.co

A partial maximalist and total people person, interior designer Whitney Jones digs deep to create bold and comfortable spaces that personify each individual client’s style.

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Bird motifs

Panel, panel on the wall, this pattern is a favorite for all because bird motifs are always colorful and classic.

Tsuru wallcovering in Indigo by The Pattern Collective, thepatterncollective. com.

— PRODUCED BY MARGARET ZAINEY ROUX

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1 BRITT SMITH PHOTO

Funky glassware

The iridescent finish and streamlined silhouette of this gold-rimmed flute puts a twist on traditional silver coupes or goblets. Champagne flute, whitneyjdecor.com.

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Flavorful candles

Get the scent and taste of fresh beignets without the carbs and calories. French Quarter Beignet Candle, shopwicksnola.com

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Grassy glam The neutral color and

natural texture of this grass necklace-turnedwall-hanging brings a global perspective into any style room.

Grass wall décor, whitneyjdecor.com.

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GET ORGA NIZED

Desk Set

Sitting pretty

Make your workspace work for you After months of remote working or schooling, your home workspace — whether a standalone office or corner carve-out — might be ready for a refresh.

According to Victoria Tran, owner and organizer at local organizing company Sorted, the key to a clean office is continuous culling. “Things pile up easily,” says Tran. “Once a pile is too large, it is often daunting for people to deal with, so it becomes a disorganized mess quickly.”

Tran recommends a weekly “reset” to pare down anything that can be shredded, scanned and stored electronically or discarded. The remaining items head to “short-term filing”: a clear acrylic bin with categorized hanging files (e.g., house, school and one for each family member). Longer-term filing, like official documents and mementos, can be stored in less convenient spots to keep the desk area clear.

Don’t forget sunny details like houseplants or rainbow-organized books. As Tran says, “A space that makes you happy will increase your productivity and decrease your stress.” — REBECCA FRIEDMAN

Sleek surface

If your office style is more minimalist than mahogany, look for a desk with slim lines and a smaller visual footprint, like this Allure model, available through Villa Vici.

Drawers keep essentials in close reach but out of sight. Tran recommends clear acrylic drawer sorters and removing office supplies from their boxes and packaging, so they are easy to spot and organize.

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Home office chairs don’t have to be clunky or corporate.

Pair clean lines, like this classic Eames design, with eyecatching upholstery.

Everything in its place

A bookcase with cubby compartments can provide personalized storage spaces for individual family members and a home for long-term filing. Use attractive baskets or bins to keep cubbies tidy.

Skip the stacks

A vertical desktop sorter keeps urgent to-dos top of mind.

According to Tran, things that can be taken care of in under 5 minutes, like RSVPs, bills or school paperwork, should be handled and discarded ASAP.

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ARTIST PROFILE

Ida Floreak IDA FLOREAK SAYS LOVE OF ART AND LOVE OF nature were always part of her life. Growing up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she enjoyed drawing, painting, ceramics, and theater set design, and was enthralled by oceans, insects and the mathematical perfection that is the foundation of the natural world. Eventually, her two passions would merge, first in the form of scientific illustration and then fine art paintings.

“I never thought being a full-time artist was going to be a possibility,” says Floreak, who at first found a more practical career path in scientific and archaeological illustration as a student at Rhode Island School of Design. “There is the trope of the starving artist; it’s a fantasy kind of.”

Making a living as an artist would, however, become a reality after Floreak visited New Orleans.

“New Orleans felt like the perfect place to become an artist,” she says.

“There is such a wonderful creativity in the air.”

After moving to the Crescent City, she made ends meet by waitressing, and then moved into set design, sometimes working 80-hour-weeks for the local film industry, while painting on the side. Today, she is a full-time artist whose work represents both the physical and metaphysical beau-

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ty of the natural world and is rendered with the technical realism of a scientific illustrator as well as the amazement of one who views natural objects as contemplative portals to “whatever is larger than us.” Influenced by the religious and devotional art of Italy where she studied for a time through RISD, she depicts objects such as butterflies, robin’s eggs, feathers, and leaves (some found during walks in City Park; all neatly catalogued in shadow boxes) with symmetry, space and ethereal background colors, which convey a reverent serenity and spirituality.

“I take that ethos [of Italy’s devotional art] and apply it to the things that interest me, so they become almost meditative,” she says.

Contemporary anxiety about the environment and the impermanence of what we once took for granted as eternal, have made the works especially evocative. The viewer, like the artist, is moved to consider the unknown — or what Floreak calls “the magic and the miracles.”

She finds it especially rewarding when her paintings inspire pleasant memories.

“Artifacts of the natural world connect us,” says Floreak, represented locally

by Claire Elizabeth Gallery in the French Quarter. “I find that beautiful.”

Idafloreak.com — LEE CUTRONE

THOM BENNETT PORTRAIT

BON VIVA NT

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First, you must acquire a comfortable chair.

The emphasis here is on the word comfortable. This is non-negotiable, because you and I both know you will not spend quality time kicking back with your favorite book if you are seated in a hard, unforgiving chair.

Your reading nook is not for show; it is for reading, relaxing, meditating and journaling.

You’ll likely spend a lot of time in this spot if you are uncompromising about comfort.

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Next, it is vital to include all things soft and fuzzy. I cannot describe in a way that will do it justice the blissful transition of removing your fuzzy house slippers, placing your soles on a furry rug, then wrapping yourself in a fluffy blanket. Just trust me on this one. It is divine!

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Now, it’s time to add the items you will use in this space. Grab your favorite books, your current read, notebooks and journals, pens, a coaster and a couple of decorative items.

These should all be within reach, preferably on a chic little side table. Add extra books, magazines and notebooks to a handy basket.

The coaster will remind you to always have a hot cup of coffee, tea or cocoa or a cold glass of a refreshing sipper when you settle in.

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PERSONAL SPACE 4 tips for creating a cozy reading nook

LAST OCTOBER, WE MOVED FROM A VICTORIAN-ERA APARTMENT IN Uptown to a nearby, charming circa-1900s shotgun. We gave up a few turn of the 20th-century architectural details, but gained a lot more space. The increase in space enabled me to create a proper reading nook, for which I will be eternally grateful.

Whether you have a spare room or simply a tiny corner to claim, here are a few tips for making it cozy. Which is an especially attractive proposition as we head into fall.

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Finally, surround yourself with art, plants and other decorative items. These are the finishing touches that add life to your spaces.

Which of course is literal when it comes to plants. If you have a black thumb, consider fresh flowers, faux foliage or paper flowers. If plants aren’t your thing, focus on the art. You can also frame postcards, pressed botanicals, book covers or your favorite album covers.

Pick pieces that are meaningful and inspire or transport you. Enjoy making this space your own and infusing it with your personal style. (Editor’s Note: A version of this story published at an earlier date on myneworleans. com.) — MELANIE WARNER SPENCER

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GATHERINGS

These cookie sandwiches are gluten free, dairy free, and vegan.

EUGENIA UHL PHOTO

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Simply Delicious

When it comes to the perfect oatmeal cookie, less is more

CAREFULLY COMPOSED

PRODUCED BY MARGARET ZAINEY ROUX

Oatmeal Crème Sandwiches Yields: 1-1 ½ dozen

Cookie

Creme Filling

½ cup coconut oil, melted

1 pound powdered sugar

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup + 2 tablespoons shortening

¼ cup Steen’s cane syrup 1 ¼ cups almond flour 1 ½ cups rolled oats 2 cups shredded, unsweetened coconut ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon non-dairy milk (coconut, almond, oat and so forth.)

1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract 1/3 cup water 1. Combine all filling ingredients in bowl of a stand mixer and beat with paddle attachment until it comes together and becomes fluffy and smooth.

1. Preheat the oven to 375 F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

Combine coconut oil, sugar, and cane syrup in the bowl of a stand mixer and mix with paddle attachment until creamy.

2. Separately, whisk flour, oats, coconut, salt and baking soda in a bowl then add them to the mixer and beat on low speed.

3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, add vanilla and milk, and continue mixing on medium speed until the oats start to break down.

The dough will be slightly crumbly.

4. Use your hand to pack the dough firmly into a small scoop and then place on the baking sheet.

5. Flatten cookies with a flat-bottom glass or measuring cup. Be sure to put parchment paper between dough and the glass to prevent sticking.

6. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes.

7. Let cool slightly then transfer to a cooling rack.

8. Once they are completely cool, flip over half of the cookies and top them with the creme filling (recipe below).

9. Top with the remaining half of cookies to make sandwiches.

About the Pastry Chef

New Orleans native Megan Walker grew up baking with her mother in their Lakeview kitchen. Later, she honed her craft working at Angelo Brocato’s where she started out scooping ice cream and stuffing cannolis.

She is currently the pastry chef at The Station in MidCity, a coffee house and bakery that she owns with her husband, Jonathan.

DESIGN · FURNITURE LIGHTING · ACCESSORIES

8211 OAK STREET, NEW ORLEANS 504-866-6654 ECLECTICHOME.NET @ECLECTICHOMENOLA

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HOME GROW N

Lime Sizzler Firebush Heat up your fall garden with flashy foliage

BY MISTY MILITO

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Appearance

The Lime Sizzler Firebush (Hamelia patens Grelmsiz) is a mounding, semiwoody perennial that sports variegated chartreuse yellow and lime green foliage with red veins. With a long bloom season from the late spring through the fall, the whorled arrangement of four leaves gives rise to clusters of red-orange tubular blooms.

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Use

The Lime Sizzler Firebush does well in full-sun, where its colors are most brilliant. Partial-shade plantings will reveal a darker green coloring in the leaves. A compact plant, it does well in containers or as an accent piece, a border, a hedge planting or a mass planting focal point for larger areas. Try planting with Canna Lilies, Lantana or Plumbago.

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Learn

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Grow

The plants should be spaced four to five feet apart, unless planting as a hedge (space three to four feet apart). Mulch one to two inches deep around the plant, avoiding the area closest to the stem. The Lime Sizzler Firebush favors a neutral soil with a pH of 6.6 to 7.3, and it holds up well to the hot and humid summers of Louisiana.

This tropical plant also has a good drought tolerance once it’s well established.

The LSU AgCenter runs an educational and marketing campaign dubbed the Louisiana Super Plant program that highlights tough and beautiful plants that perform well throughout Louisiana.

The AgCenter named the Lime Sizzler Firebush as one of the 2019 Louisiana Super Plants and Louisianacertified selections.

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Lagniappe

Pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies favor the blooms thanks to the sweet nectar they produce. Birds also like to eat the Lime Sizzler Firebush’s small, bluish-black fruit.

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BRIGHT IDEAS Smell

Swap faux flower wreaths for fresh, seasonal wreaths of magnolias garlands or an assortment of eucalyptus, bay leaves, and gooseberries. Drape fragrant garlands around the fireplace, front door, and down the center of the dining table. “Always make sure there’s something simmering on the stove, whether it’s that pumpkin spice latte, cocoa, chai tea or spiked apple cider with cinnamon sticks and orange slices. These fall libations always make any home smell homey and inviting,” Robín advises. She also suggests lighting candles throughout the home, with hints of amber, pumpkin spice and cardamom.

Sight

“What I love most about this time of year is the vibrant colors.

Fall is all about bringing rich hues inside, layering and textures,” Robín says. The decorator suggests using earthy tones of sage, chartreuse, mustard, burnt orange, rich caramel and eggplant.

“Layer these shades with black, cotton white and oatmeal.” Fall flower arrangements are another way to show off some of the season’s richest hues. Whether you gather armfuls of bright orange and red leaves from the yard or some of the richest blooms from a local nursery, the season’s cuttings won’t disappoint.

“Place oversized bright orange pumpkins alongside your large planters by your front door or even throughout the kitchen or on countertops. You can also make a statement by painting pumpkins white and layering with greenery.”

Taste

Seasons Change

Bringing in the five senses of fall with the textures, scents, sights and sounds that evoke coziness and warmth EMILY SHEA ROBÍN KNOWS HOW TO LIGHT UP A ROOM. This year, the born-and-bred Louisianan has cemented her position as both interior decorator and working mom. Armed with many years of professional experience, diligence, and instinct, this design impresario launched her own firm, Charlotte Logan Interiors, named after her two children. With fall upon us, Robín explains that decorating for fall is one of her favorite times of year. “It’s a season in Louisiana where everyone comes together for school, football, Sunday suppers, and holiday nostalgia begins to twirl in everyone’s head,” the decorator says. Robín suggests using the five senses to highlight all that fall has to offer. “There’s a lot more that goes into interior design than just color choices,” Robín says. “It’s important that your home feel welcoming and ready to entertain.”

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Autumnal dishes, such as charcuterie, baked brie, and homemade artichoke dip, can be arranged on terracotta dishes, marble serving trays, or your favorite old wooden chop block. Use a vibrant garnish, such as rosemary, edible vibrant flowers, or oranges to invite the warmth of the fall season. Add extra flavor to your kitchen by arranging juicy pears, satsumas (with the stems still on) and crunchy red apples in clear cylinder vases in different shapes and sizes. Buy fresh, seasonal produce at your local farmers market.

Sound

Light a fire in the fireplace to infuse the crackling sound throughout the home. Open the windows and listen to the window blow and fall leaves rustle. “Create the perfect fall playlist. Maybe even include some Halloween family favorites, like ‘Thriller’ and ‘The Monster Mash.’ These are always a huge hit in our home during the month of October,” Robín says.

Touch

“To me fall is the coziest time of year. The humid heat of the Louisiana summer is finally beginning to lift and you can snuggle up with your loved ones around a fire,” the mom of two says.

Buy a fire pit for the backyard. Change the light cotton and linen fabrics for cashmere and fur throws. Use velvet pillows in various shades of mustard, black, caramel or sage green. These can be enjoyed not just throughout the fall, but for the winter holiday season. — EVA FEDDERLY

EUGENIA UHL PHOTO

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TRENDWATCH

World Views

Nothing makes a house feel like a home more than a well-curated collection of pieces from around the globe. These treasures from local shops will add character and interest to any room.

BY ANDY MYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY EUGENIA UHL

Brass candlestick: look to The Collective Shop for an array of vintage brass decorative objects; available at statementgoods.com. Box, vase, basket: Alexis hexagonal box with abalone lid, brass base and velvet lining; turquoise Sharine vase made of aluminum with a mix of aged green and antique brass finish; natural and black stained rattan Jaeger Centerpiece wave edge basket; available at Eclectic Home, eclectichome. net. Hanging bird houses: handwoven Kazi bird feeders provide a chic and cozy spot for your feathered friends, available at Sotre, sotrecollection.com. Suzani: Vintage hand-embroidered Turkish Suzani tablecloth in cream, orange, blue and green, available at Elysian, elysianbyem.com. Carved vessels: decorative, handcarved Moroccan vessels in a range of sizes, available at Katie Koch Home, katiekochhome.com.

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Rug: striking woven pink, orange and brown rug, available at Sotre, sotrecollection.com. Box, brushes: lidded arrow pattern box with contrast of bone and composite in ivory and black, designed by Jamie Beckwith; vintage Japanese calligraphy brushes crafted from natural elements such as bone or gemstones; available at Eclectic Home, eclectichome. net. Fan, trivets, tea towels: Kazi woven fan offered in several different colorful patterns; The Modern Bloc 7’’ hand-printed cork trivets; The Modern Bloc black and ivory cotton tea towels; available at The Collective Shop, statementgoods.com.

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Painting: original 48’’ x 30’’ “Audubon Park” piece by artist Robin Benton Crutcher, available at robincrutcherart.com. Wall hanging: naturally sourced woven raffia hanging art, available at Sotre, sotrecollection.com. Stools: assorted French milking stools, available at Katie Koch Home, katiekochhome.com; Round platter: orange and blue hand-painted Turkish ceramic tableware, available at Elysian, elysianbyem.com. Plant: hand-painted clay pot (in several different sizes and colors) and plant, available at The Collective Shop, statementgoods.com.

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NEW BUILD OF THE YEAR

THE HUSBAND AND WIFE DESIGN TEAM OF FAROUKI FAROUKI CREATES THEIR PERFECT URBAN NEST

BY EVA FEDDERLY PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

The Faroukis strategically designed their kitchen to be on the second floor, in order to flood the kitchen with light. “We lived in a double shotgun previously.

It makes such a difference having windows on both sides, it’s really affected our quality of life,” said Caroline Farouki.

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The design duo behind New Orleans architecture and design firm Farouki Farouki have done it again.

This time, it’s from the ground up.

Sabri and Caroline Farouki, the architects of colorful local staples Justine, Maypop and Saffron, found an empty lot in the Lower Garden District and knew it would be their sanctuary.

“It was always our dream Facing page: The to build,” said interior designkitchen boasts a large er Caroline, a Lafayette native. island in Shadow Storm marble, accompanied “We looked for a long time, and

by Blackhouse for we looked at historic homes, Food52 kitchen stools. but realized it wasn’t what we Outside is a roof deck, directly above the wanted to do. We wanted to children’s bedroom. create the space ourselves.”

“We’ll do drinks and The couple first met while casual family dinners out there,” Sabri studying architecture at WashFarouki said. This page: ington University in St. Louis.

Matching the kitchen Post-grad, Caroline attended island, the Faroukis chose a Shadow Savannah College of Art and Storm marble for their Design and Sabri studied at backsplash. The kitchen Columbia University. In 2010, cabinets are by Reform.

The kitchen appliances the couple married at Latrobe’s are KitchenAid. in the French Quarter, but the design duo returned to New York City, where they lived for half a decade.

It wasn’t until they had their first child, Remy, now 6, that they wanted a change. The Faroukis moved to New Orleans to be close to Caroline’s family in Lafayette. They also knew New Orleans would allow them an opportunity to create their own design firm and their ideal home.

“We had a new baby and we were starting a company.

We started renting over by Tulane, with hopes of eventually building or buying. It took a few years,” said Sabri, whose work includes designing at global architecture firms Bjarke Ingels Group and Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

In the meantime, the couple launched their firm, Farouki Farouki, and built up a sleek local portfolio. They also had a second baby, Maz, now three.

Then, fortuitously, the family of four a discovered a hidden gem. Just steps from Magazine Street, the Faroukis MYNEWORLEANS.COM

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This page: A custom white oak staircase anchors the unique residence, which is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Narragansett Green. “This shade is a little dramatic because it’s so dark, but it’s also inherently beautiful,” said Caroline Farouki.

Facing page: The Faroukis chose a dining room chandelier by Lambert & Fils.

They paired a Sobu dining table with Barnaby Lane dining chairs. Beyond the dining room, the roof deck furniture is from CB2.

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found an intriguing plot of land.

“It looked like an overgrown driveway in between old homes in the Lower Garden District,” said Caroline, who formerly worked at New York City studios AvroKO and Pompei A.D. The space presented an interesting design challenge: it’s 18.5 feet wide and 140 feet long. The Faroukis started with the plans, understanding that the unique size would dictate the design of their future dream house.

One distinctive design decision was to place the bedrooms on the first floor and the living room, dining room, and kitchen on the second. “We knew the second floor would be full of natural light and views, and knew downstairs would feel a little closed in. Our first apartment was on the second floor and had windows on all sides. It felt like we were in a tree house. We wanted to do same thing here,” Facing page: The children’s bedroom the Lafayette native explained. features twin beds In between the historic homes of the custom-made by Lower Garden District sprouted a modern local team Inhab Millworks. Both beds jewel box splashed in a deep greyish hue of include plenty of Benjamin Moore’s Narragansett Green. The space below for family of four moved into the new digs in books, toys, and fairy tales. Top: Caroline October 2020.

Farouki reads to Inside, a light and airy vibe permeates the her children, Maz home. The kitchen, anchored with a marble and Remy, under a custom-made island, is bright, inviting, and modern. “Off canopy. Bottom: the kitchen is a roof deck. We’ll do drinks The master suite and casual family dinners out there,” said rests on the first floor of the home, Caroline. The roof deck has an L-shaped with a custom rug sofa and coffee table, perfect for cocktails from Etsy, a hanging at sunset. “It became our outdoor hangout print by local screen printing studio Four with friends during the pandemic.”

Finger Press, Dims Another interesting touch was putting side tables, and a the front door on the side of the house. “We pendant by Norm Architects for Menu. didn’t want a long hallway running along the interior of the house because we knew that would take up a lot of space,” explained Sabri. The Faroukis placed a locally fabricated steel gate at the front of the home which leads to the entrance on the side. When guests enter, they’re greeted with a statement, custom made, geometric staircase. Local vendor Vision Wood provided the white oak steps and guardrail.

The couple opted for local team Inhab Millworks to handle home construction, as well as custom millwork in every room, using Northern white oak.

“In the kids’ bedroom, each kid has their own bed canopy that looks like a house, with plenty of book and toy storage below, all by Inhab,” Sabri said.

“We opted for a high-low mix,” Caroline added. “For instance, in the powder room we chose materials that were inexpensive.

But we combined that with custom shelves and a custom mirror.

Everything fades into the background and the focus becomes a nice wooden frame.”

The home follows a minimalist aesthetic. “Sabri and I don’t like a lot of stuff, so we wanted to be very purposeful with all of the millwork. At the end of the living room, we have custom bookshelves, lined with plants and books. We don’t have a lot of art,” Caroline said. The one piece of art meant to be a focal point in the house is the print by local screen printing studio,

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Four Finger Press. Over the bed in the master, the piece reads: “Le Bon Temps.”

Another quirky thing about the Farouki residence is, because of the home’s narrow shape, it posed a conundrum for the structural engineer, Batture. Typically, an engineer would use shear walls for stability, but Top left image: Upstairs, the that’s not what the couple wanted. airy and bright living space “We wanted to avoid shear walls upstairs, beincludes a Sobu coffee table, a cause we wanted the space to be wide open,” Sabri handmade Moroccan rug by Muima, Barnaby Lane lounge said. “The alternative was to do a steel structure. chairs, and custom shelving.

It’s double duty: it provides structural stability and Top right image and bottom divides the space with a unique and natural mateimage: The Faroukis opted for Allied Maker sconces for rial. We could have hidden the steel columns and both their entry and master beams in drywall, but we chose to expose them.” bathrooms. The powder room The steel frame lends the home an industrial, loftwallpaper is by Juju Papers.

A flourish of greenery makes like feel, atypical of New Orleans residential archithe otherwise neutral tones of tecture. the powder room pop. Facing Because the Faroukis have been at this game page: The design-duo and homeowners opted to put their for a long time, there weren’t many surprises when living room on the second floor building their new home. of their contemporary home, Except one. in order to flood the room with natural light. The flooring “On the second floor, facing away from the is Golvabia-engineered wide street, there was a lovely surprise,” Sabri said. “We plank, white oak. discovered there are beautiful trees in our neighbor’s backyard. All you see are gorgeous viburnum, oak, and palm. Now we’re living in our very own treehouse.”

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Color Me Beautiful AN HISTORIC FRENCH QUARTER TOWNHOUSE GETS A PUNCHY MAKEOVER

BY MISTY MILIOTO PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

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H istoric Creole architecture and original materials provided an interesting backdrop for what would become a festive retreat for Dallas-based homeowners Karen and Steven Boulware. The couple, who purchased the French Quarter townhouse on Governor Nicholls as a second home, wanted a place where they could entertain, and, of course, a balcony from which to people-watch with cocktail in hand. When they first found the three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath townhome in late 2018, they immediately were drawn to its New Orleans character.

“We fell in love with the balcony overlooking Governor Nicholls and the fig ivy covering the yellow exterior,” Karen says. “People on the street often take pictures of the house. We love the cypress wood cabinets in the kitchen and the tiny courtyard separating the main house from the back house. We also love the location. It is somehow close to the action of the French Quarter, but also quiet.”

The Boulwares, who met on a St. Patrick’s Day parade float in Baton Rouge (and who now have three children), enlisted Chad Graci, owner of Graci Interiors, to bring the 2,572-square-foot space to life. “We were tasked with making the home a fun, glamorous party pad for [the homeowners] when they were in town,” Graci says. “The scope of work included all furnishings, fixtures and finishes, along with redoing a bathroom and converting the former servants’ quarters into a bar reminiscent of an old New Orleans restaurant and a guest suite above.”

The historic architecture presented challenges in the way of dusting from the bricks due to moisture issues coming from the exterior. Graci first approached the project by working with a local mason to repoint and repair the original brick walls. Graci also had the original flooring, wood and plaster restored. He also kept the counters low-key, and added soapstone and Carrara marble throughout.

When it comes to interior design, Graci describes his aesthetic as an informed mix of periods and styles resulting in a classic, timeless and usable look. He typically starts with furniture and lighting, and then builds a project from the floor up. For the Boulwares’ townhome, Graci kept the framework soft and used punchy jewel tones throughout. “I really drew inspiration from the vibe that the clients wanted and the husband’s request for an Old World bar,” he says. “This led me to the punches of rich colors and quirky finds to shake up the Creole architecture of the place.”

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Previous page: Interior designer Chad Graci envisioned an eclectic mix of furnishings mixed with New Orleans glamour for the parlor of this French Quarter townhouse. The wooden beaded chandelier from Karla Katz Antiques is a standout piece, as is an Italian starburst mirror from Crown and Colony Antiques. Facing page, top: In order to elevate the existing architecture and brighten up the space, Graci layered color and texture in the entry hall. A vintage Turkish oushak rug graces the original brick flooring, and an original belle époque mirror found within the home reflects light from the custom light pendant from Mac Maison. Bottom: The garnet-colored Athena sofa in Schumacher Sophia Velvet adds a pop of color to the parlor. Above: Shelving in the study features GSD Japan Quiver wallpaper that acts as a backdrop for the homeowner’s personal objects. The Hickory Chair Lady chairs with Hickory Chair pink linen velvet pillows provide a quiet respite.

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Top: Graci designed a bar that emulates the Old World restaurants of New Orleans. It features a belle époque chandelier with beaded fringe and red silk taffeta lining, custom iron brass étagères with brass pineapple finials, an antique mercury mirror, soapstone counters and Madeleine rattan stools in black oak from Restoration Hardware. Bottom left: The kitchen features a Victorian bar cabinet, a convex mirror by Ballard Designs and a vase by local artist Kevin Gillentine. Bottom right: Graci had the gilding on the belle époque mirror restored for the entry hall. Facing page: The bright kitchen features glazed cypress cabinetry, Carrara marble counters and backsplash, and an antique Venetian chandelier.

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The room where the bar is now located was only about eight feet wide. When the homeowners mentioned that they wanted to — in true New Orleans fashion — turn it into a bar, Graci took the reins to transform the awkward space. Graci enlisted local metal artist David Rockhold to fabricate the iron and brass étagères. He then included cypress wood cabinetry, antique mirrors and glass shelving, and he relocated an antique beaded belle époque chandelier from the main house that now perfectly complements the design. The bar flows freely to the kitchen and an outdoor courtyard. Meanwhile, another found item, a large antique mirror that sits in the main hall, was regilded and restored, but just enough to make it still feel of the era.

Other custom touches include the pecky cypress cabinetry (designed by Graci Interiors and executed by Pomar Gutierrez Renovation) and in the guest suite, which has a custom built-in bed with a secret trundle below to maximize space for guests.

“When you have a house with that much character, you have to stick with a design aesthetic that reflects that,” Karen says. “We use the house for entertaining and fun, so we wanted the aesthetic not to be too stuffy or serious.

I love to collect art, objects and books that I find interesting and that add to an ever-evolving aesthetic. Chad not only mixed traditional, antique, modern and unique elements, but he also layered rich textures and materials to create interest.”

Pops of color can also be found throughout the rest of home. For example, a purple and green rug in the dining room pairs with sky blue walls, yellow silk draperies, tiger-print upholstered dining chairs and a chinoiserie cabinet. Graci also added silk and velvet draperies throughout the home for a sumptuous French Quarter feeling. Other standout design elements include a posh red velvet sofa in the parlor and a custom cypress kitchen with Venetian glass chandelier. Overall, the townhome’s design aligns perfectly with the French Quarter aesthetic.

“It is sexy, fun, eclectic and just looking for a good time,” Graci says.

The Boulwares, who love to take part in the culture of New Orleans — whether it is Mardi Gras, concerts, Saints games or just exploring the French Quarter — now have a place that is perfect for entertaining and uniquely their own. Karen also appreciates owning a slice of history. “I always wonder if these walls could talk, what stories would they have to tell of the people and things that happened over the last 100 years,” she says.

Top: A bedroom in a converted attic space feels fresh and cozy thanks to the Serena and Lily Buchanan bed in raffia, topped with Serena and Lily Soho sheeting in pink sand. Graci sourced the curved London metal bench at Ballard Designs and the pair of French 19th century walnut nightstands at Fireside Antiques in Baton Rouge. Bottom: The classic New Orleans courtyard is outfitted with the homeowners’ own rattan bistro chairs and a Shades of Light colonial lantern. Facing page:The dining room exudes youthful elegance with an antique Chinese chest from Kenny Ball Antiques, dining chairs covered in Schumacher Serengeti Tigre fabric, golden silk taffeta curtains and an art deco Chinese rug from Nashville Rug Gallery.

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DESIGN

BY LEE CUTRONE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

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AUTUMN 2021 MYNEWORLEANS.COM

MASTERS A year and a half after the onset of a world-changing pandemic that suddenly had people at home most hours of the day, locals have had a chance to think about the meaning of home. As we’ve re-evaluated the role of our homes in our lives, we’ve also had the opportunity to consider the way they look and function — and that is precisely the expert domain of our Design Masters. Whether creating architectural drawings, choosing colors, furnishings and finishing details or designing custom carpentry, each one of them helps us give our homes the attention they deserve. At a time when we could all use a distraction, we decided to have a little fun getting to know our honorees. We hope you enjoy learning about them, too.

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MAS TE R OF KI TCHEN D ESI GN KATHERINE DIAMOND

KATHERINE DIAMOND DESIGNS

a creative friend in Baton Rouge I speak to daily [who] keeps me inspired.

“The Love Boat.” What would your 7-year-old self think about what you I love that fundamental elements of design are universal and instantly creates a commonality with my friends of different cultures. What is always are doing now? My 7-year-old self would think my career is fabulous. in your fridge? Nail polish and coffee. Favorite New Orleans band? Dash What is your guilty design pleasure? Passementerie. Which designer living Rip Rock. This music transports me back to college which was absoluteor dead would you have dinner with and why? Howard Slatkin because ly magical. What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite New the spaces he creates evoke luxurious curiosity through a I LOVE TO CREATE Orleans cocktail? The imperial martini — ­ absolutely divine. sensuous amalgam of colors, texture, pattern, materials and AND RECREATE I love to sip one on the terrace of The Chloe which is also dilight. His work is a kaleidoscope of everything that delights SPACES THAT WILL EXPRESS THE Favorite snowball flavor?

Hansen’s jalapeño cantaloupe vine. me. Favorite New Orleans design landmark? I just loved the ARTISTIC VISION AND Perfect road trip?

Drive to the Keys.

Favorite movie?

“The Rivergate. It was so sculptural and expressed the presence, MEET EVERY NEED OF What is something you’ve learned from livShape of Water.”

MY CLIENTS, WHO strength and movement of the Mississippi River which is just BECOME MY MUSE. ing in New Orleans?

I don’t want to talk about that ...

But I several yards away from the droves of people completely igKITCHENS ARE MY can tell you this, I learned how to pronounce Tchoupitoulas noring its existence as they enjoy all the French Quarter has PASSION. and Burgundy. What makes you laugh? I make myself laugh. to offer. I think there is another neoclassical box there now.

What did you want to be when you were 7?

Julie, the cruise director on

Favorite activity for creative inspiration? Listening to inverted Bach always

Something you learned to do during the pandemic? Or something you’d

stimulates my mind. And I enjoy discussing trends and ideas with my creative friends in New Orleans, London, Italy, France and Egypt. I also have

to play Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 in G major.

like to learn to do? I am learning to play the cello and the recorder. I aspire

MAS TE R O F LAND SCAPE D ESI GN SEAN MATYAS

MATYAS LANDSCAPE, LLC

Orleans band? Soul Rebels. What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite What did you want to be when you were 7? I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur. What would your 7-year-old self think about what you New Orleans cocktail? Canebrake beer. Favorite snowball flavor? Hanare doing now? I definitely think my 7-year-old self would be proud of sen’s nectar snowball. Perfect road trip? West coast road trip, which my where I am at today and ecstatic to be working outdoors family and I just took this June. The most beautiful and I CONNECT WITH for a living. What is your guilty design pleasure? Incorposcenic views I have ever driven though. Favorite movie?

CLIENTS TO “Old School.” What is something you’ve learned from living rating Japanese maples in my design plan when I can in the CREATE, MAINTAIN, AND ILLUMINATE in New Orleans? That New Orleanians are generally warm right settings. Which designer living or dead would you have BEAUTIFUL dinner with and why? Fernando Wong; I have personally people and the soul of this city cannot be duplicated anyLANDSCAPES worked with him on a project and I appreciate his vision. where else in the world. What makes you laugh? My wife THROUGHOUT SOUTHEAST and children, great comedy movies and impersonations.

I admire his work ethic and drive. Favorite New Orleans LOUISIANA AND design landmark? Superdome. Favorite activity for creative Something you learned to do during the pandemic? Or BEYOND. inspiration? I like to sightsee in my own city and travel to something you’d like to learn to do? I learned to never take different places to collect ideas and inspirations for our custom projects. my family’s health for granted during the pandemic. Something I’d like What is always in your fridge? Water and protein drinks. Favorite New to learn; to play the guitar.

MAS TER OF TEXTI LES ALEXIS WALTER

going. Imperial Woodpecker – grapefruit-basil. Plum Street – chocolate archaeologist. What would your 7-year-old self think about what you are with condensed milk. Hansen’s – spearmint. Sal’s – cherry.

Perfect road trip? I would love to do a big trek around the U.S. and my doing now? She would be surprised and very excited about how things first stop would be Los Poblanos in New Mexico. Favorite movie? Any have turned out. What is your guilty design pleasure? A hand-painted floor Nancy Meyers movie. What is something you’ve learned from living in is my ultimate design indulgence. Ours were painted by ELJ Fine Finishes.

New Orleans? I learned how much I love the architecture, age, Which designer living or dead would you have dinner with I’M AN ABSTRACT cuisine and music of New Orleans when I temporarily left and why? Gerrie Bremermann, who sadly recently passed ARTIST AND TEXTILE and immediately couldn’t wait to come back. I’ve been back away, because she was always so supportive of my work. FaDESIGNER INSPIRED BY MY EVERYDAY LIFE for a while and still can’t imagine living anywhere else. What vorite New Orleans design landmark? Hermann-Grima garAND SURROUNDINGS makes you laugh?

A whole lot of things, but on a daily basis dens. Favorite activity for creative inspiration? Travel, whethIN NEW ORLEANS. the personalities of my cute little cocker spaniels. Something er it’s far away or just down the street to a new destination.

What did you want to be when you were 7? An interior designer, artist or

What is always in your fridge? Lemons, champagne and French mustards.

I have the best memories listening to Louis Prima with my grandparents, so he’ll always be number one for me. What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite New Orleans cocktail? That’s a tossup, but during the summer it’s definitely a Pimm’s Cup. My favorite is at the Napoleon House. Favorite snowball flavor? Depends on where we’re Favorite New Orleans band?

you learned to do during the pandemic? Or something you’d like to learn

During the pandemic, I realized how important it is to make art accessible to everyone, so I started painting a special size I don’t usually paint for sale at half price and we found a beautiful wooden frame people could use to frame the painting themselves. It was and still is very touching to see my paintings.

to do?

MAS TER OF LI GHTI NG PAUL GRÜER

PAUL GRÜER DESIGN STUDIO

shop windows. What is always in your fridge? Dijon mustard … always.

Favorite New Orleans band? Preservation Hall Jazz Band. What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite New Orleans cocktail? A Pimm’s self would be surprised. What is your guilty design pleasure?

IN MY BYWATER Guilty design pleasure is watching design and art competiCup at the Napoleon House on a hot summer’s day. Close STUDIO I DESIGN tions on Netflix. Which designer living or dead would you second is an ice-cold martini at Hermes. Favorite snowball AND BUILD ONEhave dinner with and why? Without question I would want flavor? Hands down, chocolate topped with condensed milk.

OF-A-KIND NEW ORLEANS INSPIRED Perfect road trip? Anything headed towards New York City. to have dinner with Tony Duquette. From his set designs, jewMIXED MEDIA LAMPS, Favorite movie? “The Philadelphia Story.” What is someelry designs and interior design he was a truly unique creative SCONCES AND CHANDELIERS. thing you learned from living in New Orleans? Patience. What force. Favorite New Orleans design landmark? My favorite makes you laugh? Dry Humor. Something you learned to do New Orleans design landmark is the ‘Wedding Cake’ house on St. Charles Avenue. Favorite activity for creative inspiration? Walking during the pandemic? Or something you’d like to learn to do? Fun answer down Royal Street in the French Quarter and looking into the antique … day drinking. True answer … the importance of friends.

What did you want to be when you were 7?

An astronaut. What would

your 7-year-old self think about what you are doing now? My 7-year-old

MASTER OF COLOR LOUIS AUBERT

LOUIS AUBERT INTERIOR DESIGN

and gardens. Still photos allow you to focus and absorb details; it’s the What did you want to be when you were 7? I wanted to be 8 so that I’d be closer in age to my cool, older cousins. What would your 7-year-old next best thing to travel. What is always in your fridge? Water and pickles.

Favorite New Orleans band? Preservation Hall Jazz Band. What is your self think about what you are doing now? My 7-year-old self would be very pleased as I have always loved houses and have managed to create favorite beverage? Or favorite New Orleans cocktail? Iced tea with lots of lemon. Favorite snowball flavor? Coconut. Perfect road a job in which I love what I do. What is your guilty design trip? A leisurely drive through The Hamptons after Labor pleasure? My guilty design pleasure is yelling at HGTV. FreI ASSIST CLIENTS Day when it’s nearly deserted. Favorite movie? If only one?

WITH THE SELECTION quently books are placed on shelves with their spines to the AND PLACEMENT “Moonstruck.” What is something you’ve learned from living wall rendering them useless. How could I not yell at them?

OF BOTH INTERIOR in New Orleans? Always stand in the shade whenever possiWhich designer living or dead would you have dinner with AND EXTERIOR COLOR AND FINISH ble and make time to truly appreciate the beauty that is New and why? Only one? Impossible; may I invite a group over MATERIALS. Orleans … architecture, landscape, music, food and the spirit for dinner or a crawfish boil? If forced to choose only one, of this special place. What makes you laugh? I laugh at a lot I would invite Albert Hadley. Favorite New Orleans de­sign of things including myself. I follow the old Italian proverb “In life you can landmark? That’s an easy question, Gallier Hall of course; it is so very grand and speaks of New Orleans. I’ve admired it since childhood; in fact, laugh or you can cry.” I choose to laugh. Something you learned to do it was pictured in my high school 9th grade Latin textbook. Favorite ac- during the pandemic? Or something you’d like to learn to do? I have mastered the TV remote and the DVD player. tivity for creative inspiration? Reading books about design, architecture

MAS TER OF CARPENTRY DANIEL BELL

DA NI EL B ELL, LLC

Definitely never imagined I would be doing this, I think I wanted to be a lawyer. What

What did you want to be when you were 7?

would your 7-year-old self think about what you are doing now? How did that happen? What is your guilty design plea-

brass band. What is your favorite bev-

erage? Or favorite New Orleans cocktail? Old Fashioned. Fa-

MY COMPANY FABRICATES AND INSTALLS CUSTOM ARCHITECTURAL MILLWORK AND CASEWORK.

Use whatever I’ve got to just make it work and get it done. Which designer living or dead would you have dinner with and why? My wife … she’s the best and we don’t get out enough. Favorite New Orleans design landmark? City Park.

Favorite activity for creative inspiration? I love to look at details on homes as I’m driving around town. What is always in your fridge? Milk and eggs. sure?

Favorite New Orleans band? Any

vorite snowball flavor?

Dreamsicle. Perfect road trip? Beach.

Favorite movie? “Roadhouse.” What is something you’ve learned from living in New Orleans? It’s so important to have fun and enjoy life. What makes you laugh? My kids. Something you learned to do during the pandemic? Or something

you’d like to learn to do? I try not to put this kind of pressure on myself, I figure that I’m doing enough already, but I would love to learn another language like Portuguese or Italian.

MAS TE R OF ARCHI TECTURE GABRIEL VIRDURE

TRAPOLIN-PEER ARCHITECTS

Something design fo- dens. Favorite activity for creative inspiration? Traveling, no matter if cused. I spent a lot of time building Lego houses, and sketching layouts the destination is familiar or new. There is always something new to for neighborhoods with winding roads and parks. What would your discover or reflect on, wherever I wander. What is always in your fridge?

7-year-old self think about what you are doing now? I Creole mustard. Favorite New Orleans band? The Meters.

I CREATE AN ARRAY What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite New Orleans think she would be surprised by the architect’s opporOF FUNCTIONAL, AESTHETICALLY cocktail? French 75. Favorite snowball flavor? Pina colada. tunity to impact day-to-day life for individuals and the PLEASING SPACES Perfect road trip? Is there such a thing as a perfect road overall community. What is your guilty design pleasure?

THROUGH A I spend time looking at old city maps and comparing trip? I haven’t taken one yet but would love to explore the COLLABORATIVE PROCESS FOR NEW them to how they’ve evolved over time. I love the history Hill Country area outside of Austin. Favorite movie? “The CONSTRUCTION AND Money Pit.” What is something you’ve learned from livof an evolving city. Which designer living or dead would ADAPTIVE REUSE PROJECTS. you have dinner with and why? Chanel. I would love to ing in New Orleans? I’ve learned that we should not take know her source of courage and endurance to redefine an things for granted and to be resilient on many levels. What industry and simultaneously challenge social expectations and norms. makes you laugh? Dry wit. Something you learned to do during the pandemic? Or something you’d like to learn to do? Composting.

Favorite New Orleans design landmark? Longue Vue House and GarWhat did you want to be when you were 7?

MAS TE R O F WI ND OW TREATM ENTS LUZ MADRID AND CAMILO OROZCO

MOTHER/SON, LUZ CUSTOM CURTAINS AND UPHOLSTERY

She is the seamstress. He contributes to design process and business development.

What did you want to be when you were 7? Luz: Doctor MD or a swimCamilo: You will always find no-lactose milk, bread and cheese. We do mer. What would your 7-year-old self think about what you are doing not cook at all. Favorite New Orleans band? Luz/Camilo: Unfortunately now? Luz: My 7-year-old self thinks that I am swimming on fabrics evwe do not have a favorite New Orleans band. We are more into classiery day and night. Camilo: Me too. What is your guilty design pleasure? cal music like Zarzuela, opera, “Carmina Burana” by Carl Orff and “The Luz/Camilo: Actually, we do not have any guilty design pleasure ... you Seasons” by Joseph Haydn What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite should not ever regret the privilege of a pleasure. Which designer living or New Orleans cocktail? Luz: My nightly red wine. Camilo: My morning dead would you have dinner with and why? Luz/Camilo: We would love Colombian coffee. Perfect road trip? Luz/Camilo: Our perfect road trips to have dinner at the same time with Coco Chanel and Antony are in the Colombian Andes. Favorite movie? Luz/Camilo: “Las SEWING Cosas de Querer “ directed by Jaime Chávarri, “Dreams” by Gaudí; too much to ask? Yes, with both of them at the same time SINCE Akira Kurosawa and “Queen of The Desert” by Werner Herzog. and we will ask them about their dreams, inspirations, [favorite] 1958.

What is something you’ve learned from living in New Orleans? wine, etc. Favorite New Orleans design landmark? Luz/Camilo: No doubt about it, favorite landmark in New Orleans is the French Luz/Camilo: We have learned to enjoy “hurrications” and eat spicy food.

Quarter and its architecture. The Spanish courtyards with fountains in What makes you laugh? Luz/Camilo: Tola y Maruja, El Águila Descalza those houses are so pretty. Favorite activity for creative inspiration? Luz/ and Les Luthiers. Something you learned to do during the pandemic? Or Camilo: Our favorite activity for inspiration is our own work when a something you’d like to learn to do? Luz/Camilo: We learned [our aging client expresses her or his happiness with the final result of our hands. speeds up] if we stay still. So, we must keep busy working at our shop; we Furthermore, we get really inspired when we listen to music or travel to only closed for a week at the pandemic beginning.

Europe, especially to Italy or Spain. What is always in your fridge? Luz/

MAS TE R OF I NTERI OR D ESI GN CHRISTA SCHWARTZ STUDIO ID

A ballet dancer. What

­— cashew milk and extra crunchy grapes. Favorite New Orleans

would your 7-year-old self think about what you are doing now? You

band? Galactic. What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite New Or-

What did you want to be when you were 7?

sure stare at a computer screen a lot. What is your guilty Working directly with artists. Which

design pleasure?

designer living or dead would you have dinner with and

Green Juice margarita from Otra Vez. Ice Cream from Imperial Woodpecker. Perfect road trip? Amalfi Coast. Favorite movie? Wish I had more time to watch movies. What is leans cocktail?

DESIGN WARM, THOUGHTFUL, CONTEMPORARY INTERIORS.

why? Too many to list, but ... Living — Kelly Wearstler.

Dead — ­ Luis Barragan. Mostly their perspectives on materials, scale and modern design. Favorite New Orleans design landmark? Camp Abundance. Favorite activity for creative inspiration?

Travel. What is always in your fridge? Cool Brew — mocha flavor

Favorite snowball flavor?

something you’ve learned from living in New Orleans?

Patience is a virtue. What makes you laugh? My children. Something you learned to do during the pandemic? Or something you’d like to learn to do? Home school.

MAS TE RS O F PROPERTY D EVELOPM ENT KENDALL WININGDER, PATRICK SCHINDLER FELICITY PROPERTY CO.

What did you want to be when you were 7? Kendall: Vet, zookeeper, animal trainer. Patrick: Trash truck man (the guys that ride on the back).

Boyfriend. What is your favorite beverage? Or favorite New Orleans cocktail? Kendall: Anything that Mickey makes for me at The Bower. Patrick: What would your 7-year-old self think about what you are doing now?

New Orleans Style cold brew. Favorite snowball flavor? Kendall: Easy Kendall: Definitely still have the animal side of the career with the farm Hansen’s half coffee half nectar cream. I have had so many near misses with so I think little Kendall would be pumped. Patrick: I think 7-year-old me accidents on Tchoup when Hansen’s is open and there is no line. Patrick: would think I was doing interesting work. What is your guilty design plea- Nectar. Perfect road trip? Kendall: We have done some amazing RV trips, sure? Kendall: Planters. I can never have enough plants. I love the life they but you can’t beat Colorado. Favorite movie? Kendall: “The Lion King,” bring to a project, but maintenance is always an issue. Patrick: Hardware. “Dirty Dancing,” “Ghost.” Patrick and Kendall: “Step Brothers.” What is something you’ve learned from living in New Orleans? KenIt is one of the first physical experiences you interact with dall: Join the party, wear the wig, enrich the community and at a building and I think it speaks to the attention of detail PATRICK AND I CREATE. WE CREATE the community will enrich you, sit loose, buy your neighbor’s and quality. Which designer living or dead would you have HOMES, APARTMENTS, dinner with and why? Kendall: Patina Farms. Patrick: Dieter property, be unique, love your neighbor, there is always a reaBUILDINGS, RETAIL Rams is a hero of mine for sure. I love his hard-won simplicity son to celebrate, the more the merrier, the music lives inside, SPACE, RESTAURANTS … WE ONLY DO and timeless design. Favorite New Orleans design landmark? dance … always dance. Find the live music, start em young, PROJECTS THAT Kendall: The Clarinet, The Windsor Court, Rivershack Tavart is so important. Patrick: Community. Living in the moINSPIRE US. ern. Patrick: Henry Howard’s work (both his commercial and ment. Room to be yourself. What makes you laugh? Kendall: residential designs). Lafayette Hotel. Favorite activity for creative inspi- “Friends.” [Both] the TV show and my people. Patrick: Irony. Something ration? Kendall: Travel. Patrick: Running. What is always in your fridge? you learned to do during the pandemic? Or something you’d like to learn Kendall: Fresh eggs from the farm and honey. Patrick: Eggs, yogurt, peanut to do? Kendall: Fishing, gardening, I love chickens. Patrick: Working rebutter. Favorite New Orleans band? Kendall: Better than Ezra. Patrick: Too motely. Learn Spanish. tough to narrow to just one — Big Tymers, Harry Connick Jr., Lil Wayne,

MAS TE R OF FURNI TURE D ESI GN CHIP MARTINSON MONKEY WID-A-FEZ

I wanted to be a solitary mountain man, friend to Indians and wild animals. There was a big wolf there and a flying car with lasers. What would your

with those involved in the project. What is always in your fridge? Woeber’s jalapeño mustard. Favorite New Orleans band? Ernie K-Doe, Emperor of the Universe. What is your favorite beverage? Or I DESIGN, BUILD AND 7-year-old self think about what you are doing now? favorite New Orleans cocktail? Ice cold Miller High Life INSTALL CUSTOM What, no lasers?! What is your guilty design pleasure? and a shot of bourbon. Favorite snowball flavor? WaterFURNITURE FOR RESTAURANTS, Leaving notes to the future hidden in the furniture. melon. Perfect road trip? Maine in the summertime with COFFEE HOUSES, Which designer living or dead would you have dinner wifey. Favorite movie? “The Mummy,” “Motorcycle DiaDESIGNERS, HIGH with and why? I honestly cannot imagine a more dreary ries.” What is something you’ve learned from living in New END STORES AND INDIVIDUALS. Orleans? Always walk on the shady side of the street. What experience. A waste of good food. Favorite New Orleans design landmark? St. JosephChurch on Tulane. They makes you laugh? OK, a horse walks into a bar ... Somereally took the concept of Joseph being a woodworker and ran with thing you learned to do during the pandemic? Or something you’d like it. Amazing details. Favorite activity for creative inspiration? Talking to learn to do? Work alone.

What did you want to be when you were 7?

WINN BESTOFHOME EACH YEAR OUR READERS VOTE BY ONLINE BALLOT FOR THEIR FAVORITE HOME DESIGN INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS IN NEW ORLEANS. THE BUSINESSES COVER THE SCOPE OF EVERYTHING HOMEOWNERS NEED TO MAKE AND MAINTAIN A BEAUTIFUL HOUSE AND HOME. THE VOTES HAVE BEEN TALLIED AND WE PRESENT OUR 2021 BEST OF HOME WINNERS.

NERS Best architect/architecture firm Albert Architecture Best audio/music company 1st Audio & Video Best demolition company Demo Diva Best fencing company Rise Construction Group

Best pest control TIE Terminex Of New Orleans and J & J Exterminating New Orleans

Best place to buy modern or contemporary furniture Textures Warehouse

Best place for closet design/ installation Louisiana Custom Closets

Best place to buy outdoor furniture Eclectic Home

Best place for handmade woodwork The Bank Antiques

Best gutters company C3NOLA Construction Services

Best place for pool/patio design and installation Mullin

Best home builder/contractor/ construction company Entablature

Best place to buy animal supplies Jefferson Feed

Best hurricane preparation company LAS Shutters + Windows Best in plumbing All Hours Plumbing & Repair Best in real estate Entablature Realty Best interior designer Eclectic Home Best landscaping company Mullin Best outdoor fountains Mullin Best paint company Sherwin-Williams Paint Store

Best place to buy art Zana Brown Studio Best place to buy bedding Bedding Plus Best place to buy cabinets Legends Interiors, Inc.

Best place to buy tile or stone Palatial Stone & Tile Best place to buy vintage or antique furniture Merchant House

Best place to buy window treatments Elan Studio Design Best place to design your kitchen Legend Interiors, Inc. Best restoration company Entablature Best roofing company C3NOLA Construction Services

Best place to buy flooring Legends Interiors, Inc.

Best security company TIE TOCA Alarm Service and Alarm Protection Services

Best place to buy gardening items Urban Roots Garden Center

Best shoring company Davie Shoring Inc.

Best place to buy home décor Textures Warehouse

Best tree cutting service Risk Tree Service LLC

Best place to buy lighting Elan Studio Lighting

Best window company LAS Shutters + Windows

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MULLIN

Campbell Cabinet Co.

10356 River Road, St. Rose, 504.275.6617, mullinlandscape.com

220 Hord St., Harahan, 504-733-4687; 4040 Highway 59, Mandeville, 985-892-7713, campbellcabinets.com

Classic Cupboards CUPBOARDS

Coburn’s Kitchen & Bath Showroom

5809 River Oaks Road South, Harhan, 504-734-9088, classiccupboards.com

3215 28th St., Metairie, 504-834-8688, CoburnShowroom.com/Metairie

Knaps Painting LLC

Legend Interiors

Mandville – New Orleans, 985-264-4470, knapspaintingllc.com, Andrewknaps@knapspaintingllc.com

Kitchen & Bath • Design & Remodeling 432 N. Anthony St., Suite 301, New Orleans, 504-324-8080, @legendinteriorsnola, info@legendinteriorsinc.com

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Eclectic Home 8211 Oak St., New Orleans, 504-866-6654, .eclectichome.net, @eclectichomenola

Demoran Custom Homes 504-810-5346, 985-788-7857, demorancustomhomes.com

Tuscan Stone Imports

M L M Incorporated

720 S. Galvez St., New Orleans, 504-837-1511; 7150 Pecue Lane, Baton Rouge, 225-753-5870, TuscanStoneImports.com, 504-329-0107, KHicks@tuscanstoneimports.com

1400 Distributors Row., Elmwood, 504-322-7050, mlm-inc.com, MLM-Commercial.com

Renaissance Doors 1000 Edwards Ave Suite B, Harahan, 504-344-6994, renaissancedoorsllc.com

J&J Exterminating 1-800-737-2847, JJEXT.COM, 416 Commerce Point, New Orleans; 540 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville; 47009 N. Morrison Blvd., (Tickfaw) Hammond

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Entablature, LLC Design-Build General Contractor Entablature.com

VILLA VICI 4112 Magazine St., New Orleans, 504-899-2931, villavici.com

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Elan Studio Design Elan Studio Lighting 3515 Division St., Metairie, 504-875-5046, elanstudiodesign.com, elanstudiolighting.com

LAS Enterprises 2413 L & A Road, Metairie, 504-887-1515, 1-800-264-1527

KELLY SUTTON \\ DESIGN 3800 Dryades St., New Orleans, 310.975.4088, kellysuttoninc.com, @kellysuttoninc

C3NOLA Construction Services 504-220-2539, info@usec3nola.com, usec3nola.com

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Nordic Kitchen and Baths Inc. 1818 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, 504-888-2300, nordickitchens.com

Stafford Tile & Stone 5234 Magazine St., 504-895-5000, staffordtile.com

Ruffino Custom Closets 111 Campbell Blvd., Mandeville, 985-809-7623, ruffinoclosets.com

Louisiana Custom Closets 13405 Seymour Meyer, Suite 24, Covington, 985-871-0810, louisianacustomclosets.com

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HOME RENEWAL

MOST homeowners likely understand the aesthetic importance of keeping up their house’s exterior paint job. But maintaining exterior paint is important for other reasons, and is not a task that should be done only if the paint is obviously cracked or peeling.

It is true the most obvious reason for applying a fresh coat of paint is attractiveness. The value of aesthetics isn’t just to have something pleasant to look at when you’re coming and going. A well-maintained house has more curb appeal and will fetch a higher price when placed on the market.

It’s also good for your neighborhood as a whole.

“It improves the value of your home and your neighbors’ homes,” said Brian Ammerman, owner of Five Star Painting.

But maintaining your house’s paint job is also a way to preserve your house and keep it from deteriorating over time. If you spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to buy a house, it’s worth spending money to keep it in shape.

“A house is a lifetime investment,” said Ray Kannish, owner of Adam Alan Painting.

Why does paint preserve your house? In a city like New Orleans, it’s because so many houses are built with wood.

“Most New Orleans homes were built long before moisture barriers were added to siding,” Ammerman said.

The heat, rain and humidity all conspire to make the paint crack and peel, which exposes the wood to the elements. When that happens, the wood will rot and termites are more likely to attack the

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Pretty in Paint Pro tips for painting and maintaining you the exterior of your home

frame of the house.

“Think of your paint as a latex glove,” Ammerman said. “When it starts to peel on your house, it’s like an open wound.”

However, homeowners should not wait until peeling and rot are visible before taking action. Ammerman said mold can grow for years before it’s detected and cause health problems and make allergies worse.

Kannish said some types of paint

can attract mildew. He said oilbased primers featuring linseed oil can serve as a breeding ground for the bacteria that causes mildew.

Ammerman said it’s also important to ask your painter if they will do your caulking. He said a house’s caulking fails quicker than its paint job. Good caulking keeps the moisture out.

“If a painter doesn’t do any caulking on an exterior painting job, I

would fire them,” Ammerman said.

Regular painting touch-ups will cost money short-term, but save you money long-term. Ammerman recommends doing it every 7-10 years. If you wait until the wood is rotting to fix your paint, it will cost you more. He said if painters have to fix rotting wood, it will add 10-20% to your final bill. He added that you should do a walk-around of your house every year to make sure there are no obvious signs of peeling or decay.

Power washing is an important component of any painting job. It removes dirt or any other residues from surfaces. Kannish said all of the cars that drive by your house over the years will leave an oily residue on your home from their exhaust fumes. If you don’t remove these substances beforehand, the paint won’t work as well.

“In order for paint to truly last and attach itself, the surface needs to be dry, dull and clean,” Ammerman said.

Both Kannish and Ammerman agreed that if you are doing the painting yourself, you should always do your research and invest in high-quality paint. Again, it will cost a little more short-term, but save you money and headaches long-term. Ammerman said there is no one-size-fits-all paint because surfaces and homes are different. So if you’re buying paint, you should use Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore because the stores will likely have more knowledgeable employees to make specific recommendations and answer questions. He said it can be much more hit-andmiss with finding help at big box retailers. — FRITZ ESKER

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INSPIR ATION BOARD

Collected Calm

Decorate a room with the fall colors of burnished orange, rich browns, yellows and golds to imbue the space with a warmth left over by the summer sun, and a serenity that the busyness of summer has passed. Choose rich textures and fabrics with depth, and the coziness will make you feel cocooned.

Newman chair in plush golden velvet eclectichome.net

BY MIRELLA CAMERON

Elegant terracotta lady bust, sundayshop.co

Mezza gold table lamp, eclectichome.net

Tipot tier table, eclectichome.net

Turkish pot with double handles, sundayshop.co

Burnt mahogany wood tray and frost resin with brushed nickel feet and handles, eclectichome.net

The Flynn Sofa in Moss Green, with elegant curves and chic, midcentury styling in a kidney-style silhouette also offers expert craftsmanship and sustainable materials, arhaus.com

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73

PRICE MIX

Light My Fire Backyard fire pits

BY ASHLEY MCLELLAN

$269 - $599

$319.99

$349 - $1,149

$350

Cool Burn Solo Stove has perfected the smokeless fire pit, ideal for the smaller yards and patios often found in New Orleans. Available in three sizes (medium Bonfire pit pictured), the Solo Stove features a “Signature 360 Airflow Design” which allows for air to enter through specially placed openings creating a brighter glow with minimal smoke and ash. Each fire pit is made from 304 stainless steel, burns regular dry hardwood logs and can be easily moved from backyard to camping excursions. Price ranges from $269 to $599, and each fire pit can be accessorized with Solo Stove’s line of stands, weather covers, accessories, tools and more, from solostove.com.

Color Coded The Asher wood-burning fire pit is designed to stand out, rather than blend in, with a modern patio, courtyard or backyard space. Made from weather-resistant ceramic, the Asher is available in eye-popping colors such as persimmon, aqua haze, bright white and more.

This sleek, compact design comes with a 19-inch cooking surface, mesh dome, steel lid and a rain cover. All you’ll need is some firewood, marshmallows and friends. $339.99 from target.com.

Grill Master Breeo’s line of smokeless fire pits have one mission in mind: serious backyard grilling.

These sturdy steel fire pits go way beyond s’mores and hot dogs, and are designed to be paired with a range of Breeo accessories for grilling meat, fish, vegetables and even tofu. While each one is made for function, they are also designed to fit in with modern backyard settings, and can easily be moved when not in use. Choose between a standard or “searplate” rim, finish in stainless steel or industrial Corten which weathers to a natural reddish hue over time. Available in three sizes, prices range from $349 to $1,149, from breeo. co.

Match Light Tiki Brand has moved way beyond those backyard bamboo lanterns from the 1970s with the instant light, low smoke Patio Fire Pit. Each is made from heat-treated stainless steel and powdercoated steel, which gives the design a sleek, contemporary look. It can be paired with either Tiki Brand’s no mess Wood Packs (specially made from natural wood pellets) or traditional dry, seasoned firewood. As a bonus, each Wood Pack is upcycled from leftover sawdust and wood byproducts, for a truly clean, green product that lights in less than 5 minutes and lasts for 30. Patio Fire Pit, $350; Wood Pack, $41, pack of four, from tikibrand.com.

$1,875 - $2,395 High Light The Plodes Geometric Fire Pit is as much a work of art as it is a place to gather round for warmth or for cooking. Created by Texas designer John Paul Plauché and his plodes studio, the fire pit is hand crafted from Corten steel, and is designed to weather and change with time and exposure to the elements. To get the party started, use standard firewood or charcoal, and specially designed accessories, such as a steel grate top and handmade cedar top, are available to customize your backyard fire experience. $2,145 from Design Within Reach, dwr.com.

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SPONSORED

A DVERTISING DIR ECTORY

Albert Architecture 3221 Tulane Ave., New Orleans 504/827-0056 albert-architecture.com

Floor & Decor 2801 Magazine St, Ste A, New Orleans 504/891-3005 flooranddecor.com

NIKI EPSTEIN DESIGNS 773/330-4941 nikiepstein12@gmail.com nikiepstein.com

All Hours Plumbing, LLC 504/909-6749 allhpar.com

Home Bank 1600 Veterans Blvd., Metairie 504/834-1190

Nordic Kitchens & Baths Inc. 1818 Veterans Blvd., Metairie 504/888-2300 nordickitchens.com

C3NOLA Construction Services 504/220-2539 info@usec3nola.com usec3nola.com

J&J Exterminating 416 Commerce Point, New Orleans 504/303-4609 540 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville 985/590-6674 Jjext.com

Campbell Cabinet Co. 220 Hord St., Harahan 504/733-4687 4040 Highway 59, Mandeville 985/892-7713 campbellcabinets.com Coburn’s Kitchen & Bath Showroom 3215 28th St., Metairie 504-834-8688 Demoran Custom Homes 504/810-5346 985/788-7857 demorancustomhomes.com Doorman Designs 504/408-1616 DoormanDesigns.com Eclectic Home 8211 Oak St., New Orleans 504/866-6654 eclectichome.net Elan Studio Design Elan Studio Lighting 3515 Division St., Metairie 504/875-5046 elanstudiodesign.com elanstudiolighting.com xterior Designs Beverly Katz, Land. Design New Orleans 504/866-0276 exteriordesignsbev.com Fiber Seal 504/866-2273 nola@fiberseal.com

Kelly Sutton Designs 3800 Dryades St, New Orleans 504/302-2547 kellysuttoninc.com Kim Starr Wise – The Flower Shop 2036 Magazine St., New Orleans 504/390-0563 Knaps Painting, LLC 985/264-4470 knapspaintingllc.com LAS Enterprises 2413 L & A Road, Metairie 504/887-1515 1-800-264-1527

Palatial Stone and Tile, LLC. 1526 Religious St., New Orleans 504/576-9000 2052 Paxton St., Harvey 504/340-2229 palatialstone.com Renaissance Doors 1000 Edwards Ave., Harahan 504/344-6994 renaissancedoors@gmail.com renaissancedoorsllc.com Ruffino Custom Closets 110 Campbell Ave., Mandeville 504/252-9884 ruffinocustomclosets.com Triton Stone Group 6131 River Rd., New Orleans3 504/738-2228 tritonstone.com

Legend Interiors 432 N. Anthony St. Suite 301 504/324-8080 info@legendinteriorsinc.com

Tuscan Stone Imports 720 S. Galvez St., New Orleans 504/837-1511 7150 Pecue Lane, Baton Rouge 225/753-5870 tuscanstoneimports.com

Louisiana Custom Closets 13405 Seymour Meyer Suite 24, Covington 985/871-0810 louisianacustomclosets.com

VILLA VICI 4112 Magazine St., New Orleans 504/899-2931 villavici.com

M L M Incorporated 1400 Distributors Row, Elmwood 504/322-7050 South Shore 985/231-0233 North Shore mlm-inc.com

Wren’s Tontine Shade & Design 1533 Prytania St., New Orleans 504/525-7409 wrenstontine.com •

MULLIN 10356 River Rd., St. Rose 504/275-6617 mullinlandscape.com

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ASK THE EXPERTS

TIMELESS APPEAL Choosing the best hard surfaces to increase your home’s resale value

WITH A BOOMING REAL ESTATE MARKET, PLENTY of area homeowners are considering a move. Simultaneously, other homeowners have taken advantage of a homebound several months and embarked on renovation projects to improve their home’s function or outdated design. Both groups are likely calculating or considering their homes’ resale value, and this season, we’ve checked in with area experts on the various ways stone, tile, and flooring — large components of kitchens and baths — can increase or decrease value.

“Resale value is important,” says Kelly Sutton, interior designer and owner of Kelly Sutton Design. According to Sutton, resale value factors in more to a design approach when a client plans to sell in the near future

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versus when a client plans to live in the home for the next 10 or more years. With regard to stone, tile, and flooring, Sutton recommends keeping it light, fresh, and neutral if you intend to sell.

“When a home is for sale, the design really has to appeal to a wide audience, so anything too specific in style or too bold could potentially be a deterrent for people,” she says.

According to interior designer Penny Francis, you don’t have to sacrifice design because of resale — you just have to make less trendy design choices. She says it’s important to discuss return on investment when designing and to be careful not to over invest what the market can bear.

With regard to flooring and increasing a home’s resale value, Francis recommends tile or stone for entries and foyers and bathrooms and porce-

lain tile or wood flooring for kitchens.

“Wood flooring is very transitional and works with all design aesthetics,” says Francis, owner of Eclectic Home. She adds that wood floors can be refinished, and that while they require more maintenance than porcelain, natural stone requires the most care and maintenance.

Owner and GM of MLM, Inc., a general contracting firm specializing in historic home renovation and new construction, Machi Medrzycki is also partial to solid wood as a top choice for flooring. But, he also acknowledges the popularity of Luxury Vinyl Planks due to unlimited design options, ease of installation, price, and water-resistant properties.

“We always ask the customers what is the exit strategy for the house [or] project first before we discuss any prices or textures,” says Medrzycki. For owners looking to sell within a couple of years, he recommends keeping flooring design choices current and mainstream with tile cost not exceeding $2 to $3 per square foot.

“If the client has a 10 plus year plan, then we can offer much more in the form of design and tile choices,” he says. “Ten years from now, none of the design will be relevant, so why not enjoy it in the meantime,” he says.

Legend Interiors Kitchen & Bath designer Nicole Ruppel Jones likes the bang for the buck that you can get in flooring with Luxury Vinyl Tile, which is modular, easy to install, durable, and easy to maintain.

She also likes the durability and price point of porcelain tile, which can convincingly mimic natural stone. Whatever you choose, she recommends having materials in hand before beginning demolition on your project — in the aftermath of the pandemic, production delays, discontinued items, and very long lead times have unfortunately become common.

At Floor & Decor Design Studio, store manager Julea Greenberg sees

benefits in both approaches to increasing a home’s appeal: natural hardwood and stone that have been popular locally for 100 years and highly durable luxury wood-look and stone-look vinyl flooring that come with lifetime residential warranties. According to Greenberg, Optimax, Floor & Decor’s exclusive new wood-based, natural product with no VOCs, offers a textured-wood look and has been an industry game changer.

“It is waterproof, scratch proof, dent proof, and pet proof,” she says. “Like our luxury vinyl, it is a floating floor — no adhesives necessary for install — with a tongue and groove clicking installation system.”

Another game changer for Greenberg has been large-format porcelain tile, which creates a high-end, natural stone slab look with minimal grout lines and impressive visual clarity at far lower prices.

Countertops made of stone slabs, whether natural or man-made, factor heavily in whether kitchens and baths succeed at providing a high rate of return on investment. According to local experts, it’s important to know the differences between the materials, including look, durability, maintenance, and quality.

One of the most popular choices is quartz, a man-made stone, consistent in pattern and color.

“Every slab of the color you choose looks the same as the next one,” says Rachel Jones, vice president and co-founder of Triton Stone. “Conversely, natural stone is one-of-a-kind, and every slab can look different. It is a way to make your home stand out and be unique when so many home designs are similar,” she says.

That said, natural stones — such as marble, granite, and quartzite — are live surfaces that require protection and proper cleaning to reduce wear and tear.

“Man-made products have come a long way in mimicking natural stone, and I think that’s been a game changer for people who don’t want the maintenance that comes with natural stone,” says Jones.

When considering quality, try to match the project selection with the architectural style of the home, suggests Paul Romain, president of Palatial Stone and Tile.

“Savvy buyers can discern if the quality of the product doesn’t match the quality of the home,” he says.

While man-made quartz products are popular, Romain recommends looking at natural quartzite slabs as more of the stone becomes available at better prices than ever.

“They are stunning, natural, extremely hard and durable, and for those who are looking for marble-type character, this can fill the gap,” he says.

Durability is important when considering the placement of your stone slabs — which countertops take a beating and which simply hold only a toothbrush and hand towel? At Tuscan Stone Imports, managing partner Keven Hicks recommends natural quartzite and granite or man-made quartz for kitchens, as these three materials are the most durable. These products also work well in bathrooms, but natural marble is a favorite in this application because of its timeless look. — KELCY WILBURN

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LAST INDU LGENCE

Sweet Spot

Add extra pizzaz with a chic accent chair

WHETHER BEING USED TO CREATE A VIGNETTE, or to spruce up an otherwise mundane area, accent chairs provide that extra punch to bring a space to life. One we love is the new Coliseum Club Chair by the New Orleans furniture brand, Doorman Designs. The first iteration of the chair — which is modern, funky, classic and sculptural all at once — has been made in collaboration with another New Orleans brand, a textile company dubbed Palm Orleans.

The Doorman team bends each panel by hand on a metal press; welds and fabricates the chair back and seat; and then powder-coats the metal in

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bronze, black and white. The base of rolled aluminum stock with intricately turned zig zags provides a backdrop for the sun-resistant, acrylic-dyed Palmetto Stripe fabric (available in three color ways). The Coliseum Club Chair also is also available in a white Perennials Performance fabric with black piping (or custom materials). It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Get a sneak peek at the Coliseum Club Chair at The Columns on St. Charles Avenue. $1,700 for indoor chairs and $1,900 for outdoor chairs. doormandesigns.com — MISTY MILIOTO

JACQUELINE MARQUE PHOTO