Kentucky Homes & Gardens July/August 2019

KENTUCKY HOMES JULY/AUGUST 2019

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GARDENS

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Three locations with 5,000 sq. ft. showrooms: Louisville Poplar Level Showroom

4536 Poplar Level Rd, Louisville, KY 40213 P: 502-969-5858 | F: 502-969-3838

Fabrication & Showroom

4700 Astor Rd., Louisville, KY 40218 P: 502-515-7878 | F: 502-515-7474

Lexington, Kentucky Showroom

645 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY 40508 P: 859-252-4545 | F: 859-252-4535 Lexington’s premier tile showroom now houses a stone slab warehouse all under one roof!

In-house Designers to help with projects!

Products range from exquisite to inexpensive.

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Choose from over 100 colors of granite, marble, quartz, and other natural stone, plus our large selection of porcelain, glass, metal and natural stone tile.

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Design - Installation - Maintenance 859-260-1122 www.rwthompsonlandscaping.com

Everything is better on the patio. bluegrasshospitality.com

Kentucky Homes & Gardens July/August Volume 16 Issue 4 On the Cover: Preserving History, One Brick at a Time photograph by Walt Roycraft Turn to page 50 to see more.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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12 HOMESCAPES: Safe & Sound

SPECIAL FEATURES 14 GARDEN: The Signature Club 18 DESIGNER/RESOURCE DIRECTORY 22 FEATURE: Home Fitness Rooms 30 ARTIST: Sharon Matisoff

HOMES 34 Comfortably Elegant

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42 A Study in Casual Elegance 50 Preserving History,

One Brick at a Time

GO KENTUCKY! 10 COOKING IN KY: Lockbox 58 DISCOVERING KY:

Idlewild Butterfly Farm

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Kolbe Windows & Doors leads the industry with innovative products that push the boundaries and defy the limits of function, performance and style.

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Create a stylish, one-of-a-kind window and door configuration that maximizes views and minimizes interruptions. ~~~ Contact the experts at Clay Ingels for a personal design consultation and viewing of the VistaLuxe Collection.

Design Center Hours: Monday – Friday 7am to 4pm | 859.252.0836 914 Delaware Avenue, Lexington, KY 40505 | clayingels.com

KENTUCKY HOMES

&GARDENS

Published by RHP Publishing, LLC PO Box 22754 Lexington, KY 40522 859.268.0217 Publisher: Rick Phillips 1rickphillips@windstream.net Associate Publisher: Carolyn Rasnick carolyn@rhppublishingllc.com Circulation and Distribution: 1rickphillips@windstream.net Account Executives: Lexington/Central Kentucky Rick Phillips 859-268-0217 • 1rickphillips@windstream.net Susan McClelland 704-491-1288 • susanm1805@gmail.com Editors: Rick Phillips, Carolyn Rasnick Senior Associate Editor: Kirsten E. Silven Photography: Walt Roycraft Contributing Writers: Christina Noll Kirsten E. Silven

Heather Russell-Simmons Emmaline Singer

Art Direction & Design: Meghann Burnett meg.khg@outlook.com Printing: Freeport Press 2127 Resier Ave. SE New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663 Kentucky Homes and Gardens is published six times a year by RHP Publishing, LLC. 859.268.0217 www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Subscription price: $24.95 for one year (six issues). Single copies: $8.

Kentucky residents add 6% sales tax.

Subscriptions and change-of-address should be sent to Kentucky Homes and Gardens, Subscriber Service Center, PO Box 22754, Lexington, KY 40522

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COOKING IN KENTUCKY

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Experience Lockbox Restaurant in Lexington’s First Skyscraper at the 21c Museum Hotel

By Kirsten Silven

Photos courtesy of Lockbox

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ituated in the historic Fayette National Bank building on West Main Street in downtown Lexington, Lockbox restaurant and bar is part of the 21c Museum Hotel, serving up creative Southern fare made with the best seasonal ingredients from around the Bluegrass state, where patrons can dine and experience a fascinating array of exciting art installations in the city’s first skyscraper.

“We’ve worked to create a unique dining experience that incorporates our passion for creative yet familiar food and progressive art,” shared Lockbox Executive Chef Cody DeRossett, who is a Lexington native and previously worked at Bellini’s, Dudley’s on Short and Proof on Main, the Louisville-based 21c restaurant.

“We’ve taken what we think are the best parts of the South— hospitality, charm, comfort, sophistication and a touch of easy going—and reflected those back into the dining experience, making our guests rethink what it really means to be ‘Southern.’”

The doors to Lockbox first opened on February 13, 2016 in the 21c Museum Hotel Lexington, which as a company strives to pay homage to all of its historical buildings by embracing their origins. Inside, Lockbox guests can even see the original bank vault, where diners have access to a private space for parties of up to 12 guests. The restaurant’s elegant yet modern interior — floors, large windows and decorative plaster details, while also showcasing a variety of rotating art exhibitions along with site-specific commissions.

The kitchen at Lockbox highlights simple ingredients with a nod to Kentucky’s rich Southern heritage, but it also recognizes Lexington’s own cultural and agricultural identities, with distinctly old-fashioned touches and a menu that will leave you feeling just as delighted as the extraordinary artwork that is waiting to be discovered at every turn.

“Preservation is one of our primary interests, but not only with respect to what you can see around the building when you walk in the door,” revealed DeRossett. “Every day we are using traditional methods for cooking that go back generations in Appalachia, preserving the knowledge of our region.

Throughout the menu, you’ll find traditional Appalachian-style methods, including pickling, jamming, and fermentation.”

Communal tables in both the dining room and lounge make it easy for large groups to dine together and for individual guests to enjoy the company of others while dining if they wish. The building’s original vault, known as The Safe, is also available for intimate private dining and can accommodate smaller groups of up to 12 people, while the communal table just outside The Safe seats 14 and is serviced by a separate bar.

Lockbox strives to engage the community in new and interesting ways, and its latest endeavor grew out of a realization that patrons are always striving to understand more about what they are drinking. Most recently, the restaurant announced

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Beer-Brined Catfish with Ratatouille Catfish Beer Brine

• 4 cans of beer (preferably High Life) • 1 pint of water • 1 cup kosher salt

• 8 oz Pinto Grigio • 2 Tbsp Crystal’s hot sauce • 1 cup Bread & Butter pickle juice • 1 cup distilled vinegar

Combine ingredients and bring to a simmer. Whisk together until salt is dissolved and then refrigerate. After brine is completely cooled, add the catfish fillet and brine for six hours. Brine recipe yields approximately one half gallon.

5 1 The Lockbox take on a classic Manhattan. Photo by GLINTstudios.

2 The Lockbox lounge and bar area features Tomorrow’s Weather, a stunning contemporary art installation by artist Mats Bigert that was commissioned specifically for this space. Photo by GLINTstudios.

3 Lockbox Restaurant Executive Chef Cody DeRosett. Photo by GLINTstudios.

Ratatouille Sauce

6 4 Located in downtown Lexington’s historic Fayette National Bank Building, Lockbox serves the best seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, offering a fresh take on Southern fare in a very approachable yet innovative atmosphere. Photo by GLINTstudios.

5 Diver sea scallops, served with a melon trio, cucumber and chicharrones. Photo by Kari Hopkins.

6 Beer-brined catfish with ratatouille (see featured recipe).

Photo by Kari Hopkins.

“Cocktail, Savings, & Booze,” a monthly class led by bartender Norma Beekman that will cover various aspects of popular adult beverages, including the history of bourbon and how to make a perfect martini. They are also hosting three upcoming dinners inspired by cocktails, including West 6th Brewing in July, Heitz Cellar Wine in August and Four Roses in September to celebrate Bourbon Heritage month.

“We want to be your first thought for any occasion,” DeRossett shared. “Lockbox is not just a restaurant—it’s an entire experience all conveniently located in one place; a ‘choose your own adventure’ of sorts.”

This is a place where you can stop by the bar to get a libation and then wander the halls to catch a glimpse of the latest art installation, making it ideal for special occasions like anniversaries and graduations. But it’s also a great neighborhood stop where you can feel comfortable enough to come in jeans and enjoy your favorite burger, or stop in for a weeknight dinner at the bar. At Lockbox, there’s always room for you at the table!

• 1 can (24 oz) San Marzano • ¼ Tbsp crushed red pepper tomatoes, milled • ½ cup dry red wine • 1 yellow onion, small dice • Sachet of whole peppercorn, • 6 fresh garlic cloves, minced fresh thyme, fresh oregano, • 2 red bell peppers, small dice & fresh bay • Fresh chopped parsley • 1 yellow squash, coined • 1 Chinese eggplant, large dice In an eight-quart sauce pot sear yellow squash and eggplant on high heat until golden brown and remove from pan. In same pan, sweat yellow onion, garlic cloves and red bell peppers until translucent in extra virgin olive oil. Add crushed red pepper and sweat for 30 seconds to open up. Deglaze pan with red wine and reduce until it reaches an almost syrup-like texture. Proceed to add milled tomatoes and sachet, then reduce sauce by ¼. After the sauce is properly reduced, add squash and eggplant, then season with kosher salt and lemon juice. Finish with chopped parsley and the sauce is ready to serve.

Catfish Cornmeal Dredge • 1 cup cornmeal • 1 cup A/P flour • ¼ cup kosher salt

Combine ingredients in a bowl and whisk together until evenly incorporated.

Cooking the Catfish 1) Pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees.

2) Cover the brined catfish with the cornmeal.

3) In a medium sauté pan, heat canola oil to medium and gently place catfish in pan. Be generous with the oil, as the cornmeal will soak up much of it.

4) Once you have a golden-brown sear on the one side of the fish, gently flip and put pan directly into oven.

5) Cook for another 15 minutes and pull out of oven.

6) Place catfish on a paper towel to soak up excess oil and place on top of ratatouille sauce.

7) To garnish, use benne seed if possible, or toasted sesame seed. Add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and dish is ready to serve!

For more information about Lockbox restaurant at 21c Lexington, call 859-899-6860 or visit www.lockboxlex.com.

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HOMESCAPES

Safe & Sound

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Protecting your home and your loved ones is easier than ever thanks to new technology in home security.

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By Christina Noll

ou lock your house every day before you leave, and double check that all the doors and windows are shut tight before you go to bed each night—but is your home really secure?

With all of the new and advanced technology available, including smart phones and home automation, when it comes to home security, today there are more options than ever.

Many homeowners are turning to “DIY” or “Do it Yourself ” home security, installing everything from alarms to doorbell cameras that enable them to see and talk to whomever approaches their front door, no matter where the homeowner is at the time.

While DIY home security is an option, the only way to be certain that your home is secure is to consult the professionals.

“If you buy a DIY system, you have just become the install department, service department and customer support,” says Brad Stone. Residential Sales Manager at Bates Security/ Sonitrol of Lexington, Kentucky’s largest locally owned and operated security company. “We pride ourselves not on selling security equipment, but on selling unmatched local customer service and support.” In addition, most of those systems are not approved systems from the insurance industry. “If you want a discount on your homeowners insurance, you need to have a third party company monitoring your home,” he says.

Another huge advantage to a monitored security system is that in the event of a break-in, house fire, or other event, first responders are dispatched immediately.

“At the end of the day, technology is giving us some really cool features. It gives a homeowner connection to their home no matter where they are in the world,” explains Stone. He says the elevated interest in DIY security has actually led more customers to seek out more official monitored security services.

“They’ve tried it and it hasn’t been giving them the peace of mind they want,” says Stone. “We feel like it’s an open door for us to educate and win a customer.”

The reality is that only 20 percent of homeowners have any type of home security. That means that 80 percent do not.

And if your neighbor has a security system, it’s going to deter the criminal from choosing their home…and encourage them to move on to one that isn’t protected. Stone says that the typical residential break-in happens between 10 am and 2 pm, and the average time the burglar spends in a home is four to five minutes. In addition to burglary, home invasion, which puts those in the home at risk, is a major concern.

“With a home security system, you won’t ever come home to your house with someone in it,” says Stone. “When your home is protected by a monitored security system 24/7, we know if there is an invasion immediately.” Due to the rise in technology, all systems at Bates (and most other providers) can directly connect to Apple Home, Amazon Echo, Alexa, etc. so that you can secure your home using simple voice commands. In addition, almost all systems offer an app so that you can control your security and receive notifications remotely on your smart phone, tablet or computer.

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2 In addition to arming and disarming your system remotely, Z-Waze technology enables you to set and control lights, door locks and even window blinds at particular times.

But even with all the technology available, Stone says the cornerstone of any residential system needs to be perimeter security. “All of these automated features are great, but if you don’t have protection on your doors and ground level perimeter of your house, then you’re looking at home security backward,” he says. “You start with that basic burglary protection; How you build on that and build out from that is endless.”

Despite all the options, most people don’t think about putting in home security until after something happens at their home.

“I think there’s still an assumption that home security is for higher end homes,” says Stone, “But we’re finding that burglary is hitting the average person. Your home is the largest investment you’re ever going to make; we’re here to help you protect what matters most—your home and your family.”

3 1 User-friendly technology like the Honeywell Lyric Home Security System puts homeowners at ease knowing their home is protected.

2 The Honeywell Total Connect Indoor Camera is an attractive safety addition to any home.

4 Home security systems can be easily monitored and maintained with a simple smartphone app.

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GARDENS

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GARDEN CREDITS Landscape Design Rick Rushing, Landscape Architect, Rushing Design

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Discover the Gardens

at The

Signature Club of Lansdowne

By Kirsten E. Silven Photography by Walt Roycraft

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ith a rich local legacy that stretches back to 1958, one of Lexington’s oldest membership clubs has been reinvented as The Signature Club of Lansdowne, and today it is more popular than ever, featuring delightful gardens and expansive grounds that offer a wide variety of amenities to enjoy. Designed by Lexington-based Landscape Architect Rick Rushing of Rushing Design, the grounds feature a classic variety of hardy plantings that were selected for both their good looks and ease of maintenance, accented by colorful annuals that provide just the right amount of color against a backdrop of white painted brick and emerald green.

1 Hostas, hydrangeas, Sweet Bay magnolia, boxwoods, pink impatiens and knockout roses create a sublime sense of sophistication near the restaurant’s inviting patio and the rental hall balcony above.

“I actually grew up at the original pool here when the neighborhood was new and it was still known as the Lansdowne Club,” shared Rushing.

“Today, it’s still a fantastic place for families and the grounds reflect the Club’s purpose, to bring the community together.”

Situated in the heart of south-central Lexington, the Signature Club spans eight acres and features tennis and basketball courts, volleyball, a swim club, a restaurant and event space. Although the Club is private, membership is open to everyone and no longer requires living in the Lansdowne neighborhood. All of the buildings are new after the grounds underwent extensive renovations in 2005, when the property was purchased by Lexington natives and current owners Ron and Troy Turner, who reopened as The Signature Club of Lansdowne in 2006.

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6 2 The entrance to The Signature Club of Lansdowne is both elegant and inviting, with white painted brick, a grand fountain to serve as a focal point and a circular brick walkway with benches offering a nice place to stop for a chat. Liriope and magnolias can be seen here, along with red impatiens and white begonias to provide annual color, while boxwoods and holly trees provide a deep green hue in every season.

4 Durable, thoughtfully-placed plantings here include a Sweet Bay magnolia, boxwood border and liriope, with hot pink impatiens lending drama to the delightful and easy-to-maintain garden beds.

3 Creamy white magnolia blossoms exude grace and bring a real sense of Southern charm to the grounds at The Signature Club of Lansdowne in Lexington.

6 Sweet Bay magnolias work with carefully pruned hollies and boxwoods, lending hardy structure and an evergreen backdrop to the beds here, while liriope creates a lush border groundcover and bright pink impatiens add pops of annual color to the mix.

5 Soft pink impatiens sprinkled with drops of rain reach out toward a bright ray of sunshine.

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7 The expansive lawn is connected to an interior party room and balcony above by a staircase (not pictured), providing the ideal place for a party tent. The lawn is bordered here by arborvitae, boxwoods and Sweet Bay magnolia trees that separate this open space from the Club’s restaurant patio and pool area.

8 Three pergolas provide the framework for this alluring garden space, which also features a central focal point of brilliant pink impatiens surrounding a circular boxwood hedge with a lush centerpiece of knockout roses. The area also features a beautiful brick patio, while arborvitae, Sweet Bay magnolia and nicely rounded boxwoods provide a backdrop that’s tailor made for photos.

9 Winding walkways bordered by hollies and boxwoods meander through the grounds of The Signature Club in Lexington, which offers ample space and photo opportunities for weddings and other events.

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“We incorporated durable plantings throughout the grounds that would stand the test of time, creating a refined appearance with a focus on ease of maintenance,” shared Rushing, who designed the landscape while the buildings were still under construction.

“We also designed a staircase from the second-floor balcony and its adjacent event space, to connect the interior entertainment areas with the great lawn, which is ideal for receptions and large enough to accommodate a substantial party tent.”

There are plenty of areas on the grounds that can serve as a beautiful backdrop for photos, including pergolas and brightly colored annuals, with carefully pruned arborvitae, boxwoods and hollies to provide evergreen color during every season and Sweet Bay magnolias lending more than just a touch of Southern charm.

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“Our focus is on building relationships throughout the community while providing year-round family fun,” shared Troy Turner.

“Once you step foot on our property, you will immediately notice the unrivaled grounds. Proper landscaping with attention to detail is essential in making our grounds stand apart from the rest, and the garden is something we take great pride in because it helps create a unique, resort-like atmosphere.”

The Signature Club of Lansdowne remains focused on building community relationships and providing family fun throughout the year. There is a magnificent grand ballroom available to rent for members and the general public, while members and their guests can also enjoy access to the state-ofthe-art swimming pool, water slides and a complete workout center featuring cutting edge technology, a steam room and saunas. Throughout its storied history, The Signature Club has fulfilled many different roles in the lives of members and today it continues to serve as a hub for the Lexington community, with a wide variety of offerings that can be enjoyed by people of all ages!

9 Call 859-277-6600 or visit www.signatureclub.org for more information.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

1 Large gray porcelain tile flooring, a stone fireplace and dark wooden accents create a traditional, rustic feel in this lower-level workout room, which also features directional overhead lighting and plenty of storage behind the wall of mirrors, as well as enough open space to do yoga and other floor work with the exercise balls.

Photo courtesy of Freshome.

Trends in Home Fitness Rooms

By Kirsten E. Silven

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2 Designed to work with the home’s other indoor-outdoor spaces and provide seamless lifestyle integration, this fresh approach to a home fitness room also incorporates a natural wooden wall in rich honey tones and durable interlocking black floor tiles. Design by Brandon Architects.

Photo courtesy of Jeri Koegel Photography.

3 Bright neutral gray and white tones create an airy palate for this home fitness room, which can adapt to a variety of different workout styles.

Photo courtesy of Joel Reis Photography.

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aving a state-of-the-art exercise facility available right in the comfort of your own home is not only incredibly convenient, but it also enables you to work out in privacy, making it easier to focus without the interruption of sharing equipment. Of course, having a home gym also allows you to design the space according to your own personal style and to select equipment that is customized to meet your unique fitness needs.

“A quality home gym should be a space that is inviting to use,” shared Tim Barnett, PT, DPT, OCS, at KORT Physical Therapy in Lexington. “It’s not generally a passive space, like most living rooms may function, but more like a kitchen, full of energy and activity.”

A home gym should also be adaptable to meet the needs of all potential users within the home, while evolving to meet these needs throughout the user’s lifetime. The use of hardwood flooring for non-weightlifting areas can lend warmth to the room, while adding insets with patterns to thick rubber flooring can make the space feel more like home and reflect your own personal sense of style.

If there is room, consider adding a sitting area with a decorative rug to the workout room for a cozy feel, along with extra-large mirrors on at least one wall to monitor and perfect your form.

Ceiling mounted modern lighting is another way to add an element of style to any home gym, while floor-to-ceiling windows and doors can provide a view and lend added interest to cardio areas.

“From my perspective as a healthcare provider, a home fitness room should be a space that enhances one’s ability to interact most effectively and efficiently in our world and with those we encounter,” shared Barnett. “This includes the elements of mobility, stability, strength, power and endurance.”

Today’s cardiovascular equipment has also evolved, including treadmills, bikes, elliptical machines and rowing machines, which now come equipped with technology that can track and monitor performance, provide varied workout routines and even connect the user with an off-site instructor and other class participants. When selecting items for a home fitness room, Barnett recommends taking your own personal health and wellness goals into account first, then selecting equipment and other design elements that will enhance every workout and therefore increase your odds of success.

“Create a space that you will use,” Barnett added. “Find the joy in human movement and you will never ‘work out’ again!”

If at all possible, avoid the use of carpet in a home gym and opt for ultra-durable concrete, cork or wood flooring that is backed by foam for additional shock absorption instead.

High quality exercise mats are also a great option according to Barnett, especially when they are circular, because those allow for the greatest variability in ground movements. He also recommends incorporating natural elements into the room’s design, including prints and live plants, along with motivational artwork in a theme that is consistent with the home’s overall look and feel.

In fact, it is essential that any well-designed residential fitness room’s décor complement the rest of the home, so opt for an aesthetic that incorporates at least a few elements that also appear elsewhere in the interior. Regardless of the room’s size, remember that less is usually more, so don’t try to force too many pieces of equipment into the space. By taking time to consider all of the various aspects of a home gym’s design, you will ensure the space has an inviting feel and is neatly organized, which not only boosts energy, but will also improve focus during every workout session.

Generally speaking, it’s important to have a variety of equipment and plenty of space to allow for natural movements like ground work, lifting, moving objects and even climbing. Gone are the days of massive universal machines that typically only allow for single plane, often single joint movements. Instead, Barnett recommends opting for medicine balls, kettle bells, cable systems and places to hang or climb.

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6 4 Plenty of windows allow natural light to flood this workout room, which also features honey-toned wood flooring, a heavy punching bag, a few select pieces of cardio equipment and a variety of free weights. Photo courtesy of Life Fitness.

5 This custom-built multi-use home gym is encased in glass and features a trey ceiling with recessed lighting and sleek, modern gray flooring with white walls and brightly colored, oversize contemporary artwork that lends a touch of whimsy to the space. Photo courtesy of Buena Vista Development Corp.

6 A stained concrete floor gives this multi-use home gym a contemporary feel, while the beautiful wooden ceiling and beige walls lend warmth to the space. Photo and design by Robert Frear Architects.

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7 This smart home gym has virtually indestructible interlocking black floor tiles and offers a fabulous view for inspired workouts, as well as a chalkboard wall that makes it easy to remember your latest routine, lending a clean, polished look and feel to the space.

Photo courtesy of Joel Photography.

8 Black and white photos of sporting icons provide inspiration to keep pushing forward, while the mirrored wall lends the illusion of additional space in this chic home gym.

The room also features recessed ceiling lighting and bright wooden walls to create a more energetic appearance, while material rubber flooring, a variety of free weights and the homeowner’s favorite cardio equipment completes the look.

Photo courtesy of Life Fitness.

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9 9 A coffered ceiling made with heavy timber and recessed lighting lends a grand appearance to this spacious home fitness room, which also features durable woodlook LVT flooring and weight machines that support a variety of circuit training exercises. Photo courtesy of Tim Stone.

Architecture by Kelly & Stone Architects, Steamboat Springs Colorado.

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10 This spacious fitness room is part of a newly enlarged basement that also includes a game room, multimedia center and bar area. Wide concrete steps were formed to provide direct access to a large garden at the rear of the property, while the light wooden floor and gray walls give the room a contemporary appearance.

Photo courtesy of Originate Architects.

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ARTIST 1

1 Communion • 13.5”x 14” • Pastel on Sanded Paper “I’m deeply moved by the loving relationship between animals and humans,” Matisoff said of this interaction between Trina Campbell and her horse during a Western workshop.

2 Self-Portrait • 16”x 20” • Pastel on Sanded Paper Artist Sharon Matisoff is an Artist Member of Oil Painters of America, a Signature Member of Chicago Pastel Painters, a Juried Artist of Portrait Society of Atlanta, and an Honorary Member of the New Jersey Equine Artists Association. “As a Juried Artist of Kentucky Crafted, I’ve found friendship and support, an opportunity to give demonstrations at important art events, and I can network with other artists and groups,” she said.

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PAINTING

Kinetic Expression WITH PASTELS

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By Heather N. Russell-Simmons

s a child in Southern California, award-winning artist Sharon Matisoff watched in wonder as her mother painted in pastels and oils. “I thought it was magic,” Matisoff recalled. “That’s when I fell in love with the medium. I’ve drawn and painted with pastels throughout my life.”

Matisoff ’s life included an office career that lasted over four decades.

“Working a full-time job sapped my strength and I was not able to paint a great deal of time,” she said. Upon retirement, Matisoff and her husband, Marty, moved to Frankfort, Kentucky with their two dogs where her second career took off.

“About four years ago, I decided I should learn how to paint horses since we live in Kentucky,” she said. With the guidance of Marion Simon, a horse trainer and seller, Matisoff began studying the anatomy and behavior of horses. “I was so inspired that I devoted myself exclusively to learning how to paint them.”

Combining Impressionism, a movement that focuses on how we see the world, with Realism, a movement that focuses on what we see in the world, Matisoff ’s style creates expressive, kinetic works of horses and riders. “I try to show the freedom of horses using active poses and foreshortening,” Matisoff explained. “And I emphasize parts of the horses closest to the viewer by increasing value and detail in those areas.” Matisoff suggests motion by blurring parts of the legs and hooves. The artist uses a Fauvist palette, defined by pure, vivid color and distinctive brushwork, to push and invent color in her work and therefore make a stronger statement.

Primarily self-taught, Matisoff has participated in a number of workshops and classes with prominent artists to hone her skills.

In 1995, she studied with Chinese master Shuqiao Zhou. Painting with oils in his studio, “He taught me to see and apply color in broken patches that blend together in the eye of the viewer,” Matisoff said. “I also learned a shorthand with my brushstrokes so that I could say more with thick chunks of paint.” Although she mostly paints in pastel from her own reference photos, “I still use many of the techniques he taught me.”

“My techniques have gradually evolved over time to become more expressive and interpretive,” said Matisoff. Although her subject matter is traditional, her style is modern in application and color. “I paint aggressively, with strong, unblended pastel strokes.” By layering pastels on top of each other, she is able to create lively colors and broken effects.

Matisoff is drawn to pastels for a number of reasons. “Everything about the medium fascinates me!” she said. “It’s a pure medium because it’s made from the same pigment used in oil paints, but with a smaller amount of binder.” With pastels, Matisoff can paint for hours without mixing colors, cleaning brushes or waiting for paint to dry. “I’m so familiar with it that I can achieve any effect I want, but it still surprises me with its possibilities,” she said. “I’m always learning something new about this medium.”

When working in pastel, Matisoff prefers to paint on Colourfix sanded paper, usually working on the Aubergine color. Lighter than her darkest pastels but darker than her lightest pastels, this eggplant-colored paper lets her colors stand out. With approximately 500 colors ranging from purest white to darkest black, Matisoff can always find the exact hue and value she needs for her art. “NuPastels are great for drawing and for applying the first layer of color,” she said of her process. “Pastels from Great American Art Works and Diane Townsend are more intense and richer in color, so I use them for the final layers of a painting.”

“I feel rejuvenated now that I’m retired,” Matisoff said of her second career. “I believe my whole life has led to this, and I’m finally doing what I’ve always wanted to do: be a full-time painter.”

Matisoff ’s paintings can be found as part of her work with Good Acres Sanctuary in Frankfort where her portraits of rescued animals raise money to support the organization. Her paintings also can be found on her website at www.sharonmatisoff.com.

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3 Blue Jean Barreling Down • 22.5” x 18” • Pastel on Sanded Paper Bill Lay, a friend of Matisoff, is an experienced rider whose face tells the story of this painting.

Despite his age, he is in complete control of the horse during this barrel race.

4 Over the Top 2 • 19”x 16” • Pastel on Sanded Paper Because she works from photographs, Matisoff may take up to 300 shots trying to capture a moment or feeling. Back at her studio, she shuffles through the images to find the one that moves her. “That was case for this painting,” she said. “I painted it once, but the colors were wrong. So I painted it again to get it right,” she said of the title of the work.

5 Thirsty • 17.5”x 13.5” • Pastel on Sanded Paper While taking photos at a Western riding workshop, Matisoff noticed the simple comfort between horse and rider taking a break between demonstrations.

6 Before the Race • 16”x 20” • Pastel on Sanded Paper While still a novice equine painter, Matisoff created “Before the Race” from a reference photo she took at Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky.

7 Her First Competition • 20”x 16” • Pastel on Sanded Paper Matisoff wanted to capture the innocence and determination of this young girl at her first competition.

8 The Green Trailer • 20”x 16” • Pastel on Sanded Paper Matisoff said that the trailer in the reference photo was red, which failed to show off the beautiful coloration of the horse. So, she painted the trailer green.

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Comfortably Elegant

By Christina Noll Photography by Walt Roycraft

1 Centrally located, the Lansdowne neighborhood is one of Lexington’s best kept secrets, with large lots and lush landscapes.

Andra’s back yard is no exception, viewed here looking toward the large bay window located in the back room. From that room, the family enjoys looking out to the spring and summer seasonal flowers, as well as peaceful wintry scenes.

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ndra Gyor has made a career out of turning other people’s homes into beautiful, inviting spaces. It’s a gift that comes naturally to Andra, and one you can see illustrated in every room of her own home.

Centrally located in the Lansdowne area of Lexington, the home was originally owned by Andra’s parents, Don and Janice Langston. Together, in 1979, they began Janice’s Interiors in their home, providing unique interior design as well as fine furniture and accessories to local clients and builders. Andra joined the business full time in 1986, and that same year they moved to the current location on High Street to join with The Saltbox, an authentic antique reproduction lighting business.

This year, Janice will retire, selling Janice’s at the Saltbox after forty years. Andra, who purchased her parents’ home back in 1988, will continue her design business from the home where it all started, bringing the business full circle.

The home, a Dutch Colonial which Andra has completely redesigned and renovated over the last 31 years, offers the perfect example for her clients. Outside, antique brick and cedar shakes provide rustic appeal. Inside, Andra’s talents are showcased by exquisite fabrics, classic furniture and delightful color combinations.

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2 Just off the secluded front porch, the foyer is resplendent with heart of pine floors and a trellis effect wallpaper that includes tassels. “My nickname is tassel,” jokes Andra, “So, it’s the perfect wallpaper.”

The staircase was taken out of an old house and built into the house by Andra’s parents; it features elegant wainscoting that goes up the wall as you ascend the stairs.

Each room includes some medley of her favorite palate: pink and green. And no room is complete without Andra’s signature tassels.

Although the house retains its original shell, the interior has completely changed over the years. One of the only features that hasn’t changed is the stunning antique staircase, which Andra’s parents incorporated when they built the house. “The staircase was taken out of an old house that was demolished on Broadway, downtown, when they built Rupp Arena parking area,” explains Andra. Among the few other items original to the home are the brick fireplace in the family room, the large bay window located in the four season room and a builtin sideboard in the dining room.

After purchasing the home, Andra and her husband, Dave, installed random width heart pine floors throughout the first floor and the upstairs hallway. Persian rugs, most of them hand-tied and a few machine made, offer comfort and visual appeal. Upstairs, the bedrooms are cozy with wall to wall carpet. The home is furnished with comfortable, usable pieces, including many that were acquired in England during buying trips.

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3 In the formal living room, Andra’s favorite palate of pink and green is on full display along with a collection of Southwood upholstered furniture. The dome antique corner cabinet and box on a stand are both from England, and complement the English floral chintz on the loveseat, the Scalamandre damask on the wingbacks and the Scalamandre brocade on the foreground chair. Drapes are an umberline stripe fabric with handmade silk tassel fringe. The portraits in the room of Andra’s sons, including one painted by Irene Borg. Beau the family cat presides over the scene.

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4 The entire kitchen was redone during a major renovation in 2009, with the exception of Andra’s beloved strawberry vine wallpaper which was no easy feat. “I still have my wallpaper and I’m happy,” she says. In fact, she designed the entire room around the paper, including cherry butcherblock countertops, cherry upper cabinets, subway tile backsplash and Saltbox lighting. The lower cabinets were painted weathered green to match the wood paneling in the family room and balance out the cherry countertops.

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As part of a major renovation nine years ago, the kitchen, family room, a/v room, master bedroom, master bath and closet were all updated. One major change in the kitchen was the addition of a bay window, which brought in more light and allowed for a view of the backyard all the way through the house. It also opened up the kitchen and connecting family room. “It’s a real cozy, efficient kitchen with plenty of counter space,” says Andra. ““We can stand at the sink and watch tv or look out the bay window at our beautiful back yard.”

Another highlight of the renovation was the master bathroom, which was redesigned to bring an opulent feel to a small space.

Andra was pleased to be able to incorporate a leaded glass piece with some personal history into the design. “It was meant to be a sidelight in my husband’s home on Second Street,” she explains. “His was damaged and I had this made for him the Christmas before we got married.”

However, it was never installed at that home, so when the couple was designing the bathroom, Andra had it placed between the shower and vanity, where it serves as a unique divider.

It’s the little touches throughout the home that make it one of a kind, and truly a showcase of Andra’s singular style that embraces comfortable elegance. Over the years, the. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 3500 square foot home has seen the start of a business, a growing family and soon, the return of the next chapter of the interior design business. One thing is sure— there will be tassels!

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5 In the dining room, the stunning striped wallcovering is actually fabric applied to the walls. Andra went with a minimal swag made from a Cowtan and Tout embroidered silk fabric with tassel fringe for the window covering. A gold-leaf shell motif adorns the top. A Virginia Metalcrafters chandelier hangs above the table, which can be expanded to seat 12. The side built in storage is original from when her parents owned the house.

“It’s fabulous storage and so nice to have for service,” Andra says.

6 Originally a screened in porch, the family calls this finished four season room, “the back room.” “My dad finished this out,” says Andra. It is a favorite spot for sitting and looking out at the back yard. The room is made comfortable with an abundance of seating, including a skirted wingback and cane hand-carved easy chairs, both covered in English floral linen, along with Hickory Chair ball and claw cocktail ottoman. “The flame stitch camelback sofa is Chippendale—probably the first piece of furniture I bought,” says Andra. In the foreground is her great grandmother’s chair, which she had covered in her trademark colors with a pink, yellow and green striped fabric.

7 Custom painted wood paneling and the original brick fireplace are the backdrop of this cozy, comfortable family room. Just above the wood mantel, made from the beam of an old log house, a French heraldic shield draws the eye, while an English coat of arms on a Williamsburg trivet adorns the mantel itself. “I collect coats of arms,” says Andra. “I’m drawn to them.” Seating in the room includes a chair and ottoman in wool plaid, a red damask chenille sofa and a swivel chair with tassels.

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8 8 In the master bedroom, Andra went with historic Philipsburg Blue paint and wall to wall New Zealand wool carpet with a Victorian pattern. Her hallmark pink and green pallet is integrated throughout, most prominently in the Colefax and Fowler English floral chintz on the wingback chair, pillow shams and drapes.

HOUSE CREDITS Interior Design I Andra Gyor Furnishings & Lighting I Janice’s at the Saltbox Cabinetry I David Gregory Remodeling I Kyle Meserve Lawn Maintenance I Kelli & Lionell Miller Painting I Custom Painting & Decorative Finishes Wallcovering I Robert Steele

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9 Andra jokes that she owns the smallest master bathroom in Fayette county, however the space is both luxurious and refined. Completely renovated in 2009, the room now includes Scalamandre pink damask wallpaper, green marble countertops and Crema Marfil marble floors and shower. Andra used a mirrored chest vanity mounted on L brackets to create a custom makeup table. The decorative mirror over the sink is a mahogany Queen Anne that has been hand painted with a Chinoiserie effect. The leaded glass separating the vanity from the shower was originally meant to be a side light.

10 Currently used for guests, this used to be Andra’s oldest son’s bedroom and still houses all of his school memorabilia—from Henry Clay High School through Princeton.

Once he moved out, Andra added some feminine touches, including the French style bed, chandelier and Cowtan and Tout embroidered silk window treatments with tassel fringe.

The room is completed with wall to wall diamond textured carpet and historic Great Barrington Green wall color.

11 In the home office, matching writing desks sit back to back to provide space for computer use or hand writing. The room also doubles as a second sitting room and includes a television (not shown), and chair and loveseat in matching plaid chenille for relaxing. The hanging corner cupboard was purchased in England. Walls are adorned with painted teal grass cloth and window treatments are Sanderson linen with a woodland motif.

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1 With an outward appearance that’s much more like a standalone home than a typical condominium, this roomy condo features brick, stone and cedar shake on the façade, with a broad, two-car garage, oversized dormers and classic landscaping. This view also shows the ample greenspace that is splendidly incorporated throughout the Village at Rabbit Run development.

A STUDY IN

Casual Elegance

By Kirsten E. Silven Photography by Walt Roycraft

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nterior Designer Jane Leake, ASID, of Ivy Downs Interiors in Lexington first discovered the exceptional condominiums in the Village at Rabbit Run when she started working with builder Atchison Heller on projects in the development.

Situated in the heart of Lexington just minutes from virtually everything in town, it wasn’t long before she and her husband became enamored with the condos and decided to downsize from their longtime family home in Westmoreland.

“We really weren’t planning to move, but we fell in love with the floor plan and the flexibility that it offered,” Leake shared.

In 2007, they settled on a three-bedroom, four-bath, 3,400-square-foot condo that also boasts a two-car garage and is surrounded by green space. It has a large en-suite master bedroom and another bedroom-turned office on the first floor, along with a four seasons room and a truly open floor plan that includes an expansive kitchen, dining and living room area that’s ideal for entertaining.

“We also love our patio and enjoy having access to the community swimming pool and clubhouse,” Leake stated.

“And it’s so nice to know the landscaping will always be taken care of, so we can travel and never have to worry.”

Leake, who graduated from the UK School of Interior Design, dreamed of creating custom interior living spaces for as long as she can remember and has always possessed an innate sense of scale. She has yet to grow tired of the creative process or lose her deep love for good lines, beautiful fabrics, rich textures and vibrant tones. She has been the guiding force behind Ivy Downs Interiors since 1993 and still relishes getting to know every client’s unique set of likes and dislikes, looking forward to the thrill of going to Market and coming back with treasures that will turn ideas into reality.

Her condo started as a blank slate, giving Leake the freedom to create a space that is truly reflective of her own personal style, incorporating beloved motifs and custom touches in every aspect of the design. There is a topiary mural by local artist Ann Little gracing the walls of the first-floor powder room that was inspired by a vintage Osborne & Little pattern, along with custom window treatments throughout the home that were handmade by the incredibly talented Cynthia Webb at L.V. Harkness & Company, not to mention incredible Turkish area rugs in almost every room that came from the eclectic Icen brothers of Smyrna Trading in Atlanta. The home also has an outdoor patio with a fire pit and hardwood flooring everywhere but in the bathrooms, which feature porcelain tile.

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3 “On the outside, every condo in the Village at Rabbit Run appears totally uniform, but inside they are all very different in both style and layout,” Leake revealed. “For me, the openness of the first floor was the most attractive feature of our floor plan, because it lends a spacious feel that is perfect for entertaining.”

As the truest and most honest reflection of who you are, a beautifully-designed dwelling can offer essential sanctuary from the hustle and bustle, with elements that both enhance and fade into the rhythms of daily life. Inspired by Leake’s classic sensibilities, this home is infused with a touch of whimsy and a hint of eclectic charm, displaying an elevated take on tradition and a sense of casual elegance that is both enchanting and endearing.

2 The home’s living room is open to the kitchen and dining room, yet still manages to retain a sense of self in the design, which features furniture items from Hickory White in North Carolina, custom window treatments by L.V. Harkness and an eye-catching antique hutch opposite a gently curved pale green sofa, with another incredible Turkish rug from Smyrna Trading. This view looks toward the four seasons room, which lies just beyond the classic French doors.

3 Featuring a distinctive three-piece screen that serves as a focal point along one wall, the entryway also boasts a trey ceiling with recessed lighting, a black and gold-flecked antique mirror, and an etched-glass overhead light fixture that is also found in the kitchen over the island and sink. The chair is a precious restored antique with a needlepoint seat cushion lending an extra bit of charm, while a whimsical bunny painting by Santa Fe artist C.C. Barton is visible in the foreground.

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • July/August 2019 • 45

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4 A sizable kitchen lends continuity to the home’s interior spaces, with light fixtures also found in the entryway and cabinets by Kitchen Concepts that are finished in white with a rich antique black glaze that also make an appearance in the master bath. The kitchen features a six-burner Wolff range and is open to both the dining and family rooms, creating a fantastic flow whether you are entertaining or just spending time with family. The striking river green granite countertop also appears in the master bath and is a real showstopper, while the three antique bar stools with cane backs provide extra seating along one side of the bead board island.

5 Situated between the open-plan kitchen and living room, the dining room features a trey ceiling and a fabulous round table that expands to seat up to 10 people. The magnificent, one-ofa-kind Turkish area rug was sourced through the Icen brothers at Smyrna Trading in Atlanta.

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6 6 The design elements seen in this spacious second floor guest bedroom once made an appearance in a Showcase of Homes in Paris, Kentucky. Interior designer Jane Leake of Ivy Downs Interiors in Lexington recreated the look here in her own home, including the gorgeous pastoral green-and-white toile fabric on the bed, wingback chairs and custom window treatments, while a charming reproduction desk looks out over an expanse of community greenspace.

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HOUSE CREDITS Builder I Atchison Heller Construction Company Kitchen Design & Installation I Kitchen Concepts Lighting & Plumbing Fixtures I Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery Flooring I Pro-Source of Lexington Window Treatments I Cynthia Webb, L.V. Harkness & Company Landscaping I Hillenmeyer Landscape Services Murals I Ann Little Interior Paint I Sherwin Williams Turkish Rugs I Smyrna Trading

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7 With custom plaid draperies and soft wall color paint in “Butter” by Sherwin Williams, the master bedroom has a soothing look and feel, with timeless pieces including a substantial secretary in the corner and a sofa at the foot of the bed, providing a cozy spot to watch the television that is tucked away in the nearby hutch.

8 The en suite master bath is both spacious and well-planned, featuring river green granite countertops and white cabinets in an antique black glaze repeated from the kitchen to lend additional continuity to the home’s design. A walk-in shower with bench seating, porcelain tile flooring and ample storage work to complete the look.

9 A wall mural of topiaries fit for an English garden appears in the powder room and full bath.

Painted by local artist Ann Little, the design was inspired by the fanciful Osborne & Little fabric seen here on the shower curtain, while decorative basket weave tile flooring and a lovely traditional vanity help complete the look.

9 Kentucky Homes & Gardens • July/August 2019 • 49

Preserving History,

One atBrick a

Time

By Heather N. Russell-Simmons

Photography by Walt Roycraft

1 Gary and Betty Biszantz’s Cobra Farm is an 82-acre thoroughbred breeding facility in Lexington, Ky. Originally known as White Horse Acres, the farm is birthplace of 1977 Triple Crown Winner Seattle Slew. The property’s original home, the Andrew Gorham house, is designated as a Kentucky landmark worthy of preservation by the Kentucky Heritage Commission.

2 The sliding barn doors that lead to Biszantz’s office on the left were reclaimed and refinished by Longwood Antique Woods in Lexington, Kentucky to add historical context to the more modern addition to the home. Stone on the same wall as the sliding barn doors provides another layer of texture to the hallway.

3 Across the hall from Biszantz’s home office is the home’s original living room. The room appears much larger than its 18-foot by 20-foot footprint and has plenty of seating, including a seven-foot sofa. The see-through fireplace opens into in the dining room.

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ary Biszantz is a Los Angeles, California native; but like many Kentuckians, he first fell in love with thoroughbreds as a child while attending races with his father. Although Biszantz bought his first horse, Affirm Miss, in 1956, it was another 40 years before he realized his dream of owning a thoroughbred farm in Lexington.

As a principal founder of Cobra Golf, Biszantz grew the company into the country’s second-largest manufacturer of premium oversized golf clubs. By the time Cobra Golf was sold in 1996, Biszantz and his wife, Betty, had decided to pursue their dream. “I raced thoroughbreds on the West Coast and visited Keeneland for sales,” Biszantz recalled.

“We would drive along Newtown Pike, and when we saw the house on Due Process Farm, I called my Realtor.” The property was not for sale at the time. “I told our Realtor to call me the minute it was on the market.” One year later, Biszantz got the call. Within three hours, he and his wife owned Due Process Farm, later renaming the property Cobra Farm.

The Andrew Gorham House, a two-story brick structure built on the property in 1878, had deteriorated over the years. There were serious issues with the floor joists and load bearing walls. A dated kitchen and bath that added no value to the home had been added decades earlier. Nevertheless, it was the perfect Kentucky home to Biszantz.

As a traditionalist, Biszantz wanted to preserve as much as he could of the original house while renovating the structure into a modern day, livable home. He turned to Tom Wilmes of Wilmes & Associates Architects for historical preservation and renovation on the home’s exterior. “My understanding is that the original owner, Andrew Gorham, made the home’s bricks himself on the property across the street,” said Biszantz.

Tearing down the home and rebuilding with new bricks would have been easier, but Biszantz chose to regrout the original bricks of the existing exterior. “We removed rooms added in the 1970s and took the home back to its original structure,” said Wilmes, who then designed additions that were in scale and proportion to the home.

“Design is always a process,” said Wilmes. Beginning with the understanding that his job is to interpret and create his clients’ vision, Wilmes worked with the Biszantz’s and interior designer Mary Jane Nuckols. “We started with the original foot print of the home,” explained Nuckols, recalling an instance when a sketch was agreed upon, but needed to be adjusted. “Gary wanted to keep one of the rooms, but we found water damage between the brick and mortar that destroyed some of the walls and couldn’t be saved.”

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3 “You work with what you have,” Nuckols said of her experience designing historic homes. “The structure is there for you to use your imagination and make the home useable for today’s life.” Uncovered floors, large windows and tall moldings are common aesthetics in historic homes that can be beautified. Regardless of the beginning structure, Nuckols believes a home should reflect the owners.

“From the flooring up, Betty was involved with every decision,” said Nuckols. “I enjoyed working with her because she knew what she liked, such as the soft grays and creams of neutral colors.” This general palette provides a beautiful backdrop for paintings and art the Biszantz’s collected and wanted to showcase in the home. The warm neutral colors also give smaller rooms, such as the original home’s living room, a sense of openness that make the space feel larger than it is.

“Gary and Betty allowed us to look at their home as a fresh slate,” said Wilmes, noting that the home additions look contiguous on the exterior while the interior is fluid and easily flows from room to room. In 1878, the Andrew Gorham House was about 2,000 square feet with two rooms on the first floor and two rooms on the second floor. Today, it is a 7,000 square foot home with five bedrooms and five-and-ahalf baths. “Tom retained the traditionalism of the original exterior while Betty and Mary Jane created the open views of California for the interior,” said Biszantz.

Texture was also an important design element for the home.

Consistent with the soft gray and cream colors, a number of stone and tile materials in the home are made from various cuts and sizes to exaggerate composition and tone along the walls.

Large rugs provide a softness along the dark wood floors.

Barn doors, reclaimed and refinished by Longwood Antique Woods in Lexington, Kentucky, added a rich, dark contrast to the neutral colors while also adding significant, and mobile, character to spaces.

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6 4 The checkerboard pattern of the large sky lights helps filter an abundance of natural light during the day, but also hides lights used to illuminate the kitchen at night.

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5 Interior designer Mary Jane Nuckols worked with home owner Betty Biszantz to build the dining room around a table that seats 12 people. “We chose to paint a brown table with a flat, black lacquer to give the piece a dramatic, upbeat look,” described Nuckols. Twenty-four hand-blown bulbs hang from the custom-ordered chandelier. “The lighting gives the room a contemporary feel,” Nuckols said.

6 Under the tray ceiling rests a soft king-size bed between custom-made raffia-covered tables. The square bay window looks out over the grounds of Cobra Farm.

7 Resting in an alcove of the room, the free-standing tub is surrounded on three sides by sheets of stone-textured tile on the walls.

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11 8 The back porch is screened-in, allowing the homeowners and guests to enjoy stunning views of the property in warmer weather while the large fireplace provides comforting heat for outdoor views during colder months. The back porch dining table, another reclaimed creation from Longwood Antique Woods, rests on two stone urns and focuses one of the room’s two seating areas. The other seating area is designed around the flat screen TV. 9 The powder room blends different textures and materials into a one-of-a kind focal point of warm, earthy tones. Stone tile stretches from floor to ceiling on three of the walls. The custom-made, seemingly delicate sink rests on a sturdy, open wooden base. Delicate sconces shine on both sides of the prominent gold, sunburst mirror.

10 “Gary wanted big family room with a stone fireplace,” Nuckols recalled of the room’s initial inspiration. Aesthetic rather than functional, the dark beams provide a sense of warmth and coziness to the large, open room.

11 Home to 40 horses, Cobra Farm’s office and barn are surrounded by lush landscaping.

HOUSE CREDITS Mary Jane Nuckols Interiors, Inc. Tim Wilmes, Wilmes & Associates Architects Padgett Construction Creative Kitchens Longwood Antique Woods Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Galleries SuCasa Tile & Granite

Kentucky Homes & Gardens • July/August 2019 • 57

DISCOVERING KENTUCKY

Idlewild Butterfly Farm A visit to this unique Kentucky treasure delivers both natural beauty and education.

By Emmaline Singer

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Photos Courtesy of Idlewild Butterfly Farm

n Kentucky, summer is in the air, meaning a time of relaxation for many. But for employees of the Idlewild Butterfly Farm, summer means butterfly season: a busy, exciting time lasting from May through September in which millions of butterflies will shed their cocoons and paint our skies. Founded in 2015 by Blair Leano-Helvey, the Idlewild Butterfly Farm serves to spread awareness and understanding of the importance of insects in our world by operating as a butterfly farm, insect rearing lab, education center, and retail store.

The most popular attraction at Idlewild is, of course, the butterflies. “The bread and butter of our facility are our butterflies,” explains Leano-Helvey. “It’s hard work, and we’re trying to gear up to produce anywhere from 500-1000 butterflies each week.” Their hard work certainly doesn’t disappoint, as visitors are offered a variety of activities to observe and learn the beauty of butterflies. The most popular butterfly activity is the flight house. Free of charge, the flight house offers visitors the opportunity to walk freely with butterflies and observe their work up-close. Additionally, guided tours of the facility are offered each business day, allowing visitors the chance to learn about many unique creatures, handle them, and understand how and why the farm operates.

doom and gloom.” The Idlewild Butterfly Farm frequently visits schools throughout Kentucky and welcomes them for field trips, inspiring children to care for our environment.

Often, exhibits are packed up and taken on the road as outreach to communities across the state.

Idlewild’s educational mission is also achieved through different exhibitions throughout the state. Currently, Idlewild is partnered with the Louisville Zoo to create the exhibition, “Butterflies in Bloom.” “We always keep about 400 butterflies in there and it’s about teaching others about conservation and climate change,” says Leano-Helvey. Additionally, a new, similar exhibition is currently open at Wilson’s Nursery and Greenhouse in Frankfort, and it will remain open until October.

An upcoming event at the farm is the Moth Ball on July 20: the kick-off to national moth week. This will include activities for the whole family, ranging from speaking with moth experts to observing Idlewild’s giant moth collection in each stage of hatching. To schedule your visit to the Idlewild Butterfly Farm or to explore the opportunities offered, visit idlewildbutterflyfarm.com.

However, butterflies are only a small portion of what the farm has to offer. This USDA-inspected facility offers one of Kentucky’s most expansive insectariums. “I know people love to see the butterflies, but the big, exotic insects from all over the world in our insectarium are fantastic,” says Leano-Helvey. Among the many special insects living at the farm are giant walking sticks and huge Taiwanese beetles. Included in each guided tour, a visit to the insectarium allows visitors to see and learn about amazing creatures, and to touch and hold insects from all over the world.

At the core of Idlewild’s purpose is environmental education, in light of many dangerous threats to insects worldwide. “There are several dangerous factors; habitat loss, overuse of pesticides, and climate change are all contributing to alarming migration patterns in butterflies.” explains Leano-Helvey. “But there are many different things we can do to combat this. It’s not all

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2 Monarch caterpillar

4 Tiger swallowtail

6 Black swallowtail caterpillars

3 Zebra swallowtail

5 Tiger swallowtail

7 Monarch wing macro shot

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Kitchen with butlers pantry & large island. $1,495,000 Kevin Martin 859-619-3232

306 Garden Road Totally updated Chevy Chase home. 3 Bedroom, 3.5 bath, hardwood, 1st fl master suite, office, rec room & bonus room. Front and rear porch, fenced rear yard & oversized 2 car garage. $625,000 Rick Queen 859-221-3616

2957 Four Pines #3 Spectacular, updated 2nd level unit with 9ft ceilings. 3 bedrooms & 2.5 bath, 2655sq. ft., updated kitchen & bathrooms. Enclosed sunroom, 2 car garage, storage space & secure entry. $620,000 Rick Queen 859-221-3616

2409 Geppa Court Updated 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath with 10’ ceilings, gourmet kitchen, 1st floor owner’s suite, sun room, finished basement, theater room, 2 car garage, fenced yard and many more amenities. $549,000 Hill/Regan Parker 859-608-8039

358 Cochran Road Lovingly updated 3 bedroom, 3 bath Chevy Chase home. Large living room, updated kitchen, formal dining, office, den, basement. Many unique architectural features. $495,000 Diane Layson 859-333-5617

323 Queensway Drive 4 Bedroom, 2.5 bath with large living room, spacious kitchen, formal dining, office/ den off the master bedroom. Large bedrooms, private fenced backyard with deck off of the kitchen. $465,000 Julie Thornhill 859-806-5430

108 Hidden Grove 5 Bedroom & 3.5 Bath Riverfront Retreat. Recent upgrades, custom kitchen with high end appliances, utility/mudroom with dog washing station & office. $437,500 Jane Miller 859-421-4674 Julie Thornhill 859-806-5430

4684 Firebrook Pristine ranch with 3 Bedrooms, expansive living, den, dining and living room. Spacious kitchen with new stainless appliances, finished walk-out basement and a large deck. $425,000 Hill/Regan Parker 859-608-8039

990 Cooper Drive Chevy Chase 4 Bedroom & 2.5 Bath Cape Cod. Spacious lot, hardwood, nice kitchen, living room w/fireplace, office, basement, 2 car garage, storage space, private street/driveway. $425,000 Rick Queen 859-221-3616

3418 Woodstock Circle 4 Bedroom & 4 Bath home in Brookhaven. Updated kitchen, living and family rooms, dining room, over 4200sq. ft. Finished basement with wet bar, bath and exterior entrance. $399,000 Rick Queen 859-221-3616

44 Richmond Avenue 3 Bedroom & 2 Bath Kenwick bungalow. Renovated with modern amenities, pristine kitchen, formal dining, dog room, hardwood, covered front porch & private fenced yard. $329,000 Randy Kemper 859-361-9026

410 Henry Clay Blvd.

Renovated 3 Bedroom home in Fairway. Featuring hardwood floors, remodeled kitchen and bathroom, gas fireplace in living room & fenced yard with garage.

Close to downtown. $299,500 Randy Kemper 859-361-9026

4005 Mooncoin Way 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 bath with an open floor plan, 9’ ceilings on 1st floor, lots of light, nice sized bedrooms, custom master closet & a fenced backyard. Great location. $284,000 Becky Mobley 859-321-0819

REAL ESTATE

#1 Top Producer for 19 years!

Suzanne Elliott (859) 806-6234

website: www.suzanneelliott.com

1616 Tates Creek Road #6

Laura Eaves (859) 797-5822 email: selliott@demovellan.com

$1,475,000

4894 Faulkirk Lane

$1,195,000

Great opportunity in the gated Enclave Neighborhood! Open floor plan with 10’+ & 2 story ceilings, spacious rooms featuring lots of windows and light and an outdoor covered slate patio with Koi pond.

Exquisitely built by Schaefer Homes with quality & attention to detail throughout. Spacious kitchen offers cherry cabinetry & granite counters.

5000 Jacks Creek Pike

5196 Jacks Creek Pike

$925,000

First floor Master Suite. Finished walkout Basement with Home Theater.

$795,000

Amazing home on 10 gently rolling acres just minutes from MOW. Natural pine floors & woodwork throughout. Open floor plan, many large windows.

Dramatic floor to ceiling, 2-sided stone fireplace. Geothermal HVAC.

Beautifully restored c.1894 Victorian on 10 beautiful acres. Classic charm with modern convenience! Original hardwood, 10’ mahogany pocket doors, ornate staircase, and 4 original fireplaces. 1st floor master suite.

3001 Brookmonte Ln

1404 Tuscany Ln

$860,000

100 Mill Rock Rd

$765,000

$425,000

535 S Upper St #301

$180,000

$2,150,000

1916 Lakes Edge Dr

$869,000

New Roof! Amazing waterfront home.

Open floor plan offers tall & vaulted ceilings & unique architectural features.

Beaumont Reserve! 5BR, 4.5BA, 2 story great room with fireplace, gourmet kitchen, finished basement.

2100 Jacks Creek Pike $735,000

2105 Elgin Place

$625,000

4732 Scenicview Rd

Classic Southern Colonial custom built home on 10 beautifully landscaped acres. A Bluegrass Treasure!

Beautifully renovated home on a 10 acre tract just minutes from town and surrounded by horse farms.

Large, updated ranch in Hartland Estates! Lovely, flat .42 acre treed lot on a cul de sac. Amazing walkout Bsmt.

Move in ready in Dogwood Trace!

4BR, 3.5BA, Formal Living & Dining.

Spacious Master Suite with sitting area.

One story in popular Clays Crossing subdivision! Dramatic white kitchen, Thermador stainless appliances.

Best buy in Center Court! Large 1BR + bonus room. Upgraded kitchen with granite countertops, tile backsplash.

SHOPPING & SERVICES

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2551 Regency Rd • 859-276-5264

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THE SWITCH IS ON (AND HAS BEEN)

TO SUBARU!

Discover why record numbers of people who can afford to drive any car they choose are switching from other makes to Subaru.

Visit Quantrell Subaru and you’ll understand why!

Subarus are quite possibly the perfect car for safety, dependability, longevity, resell value, affordability and overall value! Subarus are the choice of people with active lifestyles, people who refuse to lose their mobility when bad weather occurs and people who have others depending on them to get there.

2019 Outback 2.5i CVT KDB 01 0% 0.9%

36 MONTH 72 MONTH

New 2019 Outback

Over

FINANCING

70 Available!

Available!*

“perfect” adj. per·fect

1. Having all the required or desirable elements, qualities, or characteristics; as good as it is possible to be.

26,345 214

$

BUY FOR

OR LEASE FOR ONLY

$

* PER MONTH

• $0 Security Deposit • $0 1st Months Payment • $4,207 Total Due at Signing

Quantrell Subaru is the number one volume selling Subaru dealership in Kentucky for the last seven years.

One visit and you’ll understand why. ^2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018 according to Source Subaru of America sales report. Advertised price and leases are Subaru national offers.*Prices net of all incentives and plus tax, license & $336 dealer processing fee. Lease is closed end for 36 months with approved credit, includes first month payment, security deposit waived, plus tax, license & $336 dealer processing fee. 12,000 miles per year. Vehicle MSRP’s: 2019 Outback $27,320. As low as 72 month 0.9% financing is with no money down and approved credit, month payments are $14.30 per $1,000 financed. Offers end July 31, 2019. See dealer for complete details. Due to ad deadlines some vehicles may be sold and offers may change. Photos are for illustration purposes. Subject of the vehicle insurance and vehicle availability.

Saturday Service Hours: 8am-3pm

QS1285-8.625x11.125-Outback-KyHmGrdn.indd 1

1490 New Circle Road 859-266-2161 800-888-2161 quantrellsubaru.com 6/17/19 2:34 PM