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From the Editor
Last month we celebrated my grandmother’s 90th birthday. Before the festivities, we put together a keepsake book detailing some of her favorite memories and fun facts about her life, following prompts such as, What do you consider your most prized possessions? Among her answers to that particular question she listed an antique pie safe—a wonderful old piece from the 19th century that made its way from North Carolina to Texas with her great-grandfather on a covered wagon. I could go on about how that piece shows up in the background of photos from every decade of my mother’s life; how its punched metal and worn paint adds the perfect patina to my grandmother’s current home; or how it tells a story about my family history simply by existing. Suffice it to say that years from now, I’ll bet nobody mentions a couch they bought from Wayfair in their memoir! Our New Traditional Issue is a salute to the ability of tangible items to transcend time, all while keeping our homes fresh with modern-day, soon-to-be heirlooms. Whatever you love, hold tight to it; it could be meaningful for generations to come.
Latest
Little Rock garden and lifestyle brand Gloriette celebrates the opening of a brick-and-mortar location where shoppers will find curated collections of home goods, entertaining wares, and seasonal décor that reflect an elevated mix of European and Southern sensibilities. As of publication, owner Laurie Miller plans for the store at 5914 R St., Suite B to be open by mid-March. Visit shopgloriette.com for more information and follow along on Instagram (@shopgloriette) for updates.
Shop Simple Designs, a monthly pop-up home furnishings showroom based in Little Rock, hosts its first fundraising event on April 15. Called Furnish: Bless the Nest , ticket sales support the brand’s nonprofit arm, The Simple Nest , which partners with existing organizations to provide people in need with donated furniture. Furnish: Bless the Nest will feature vignettes by Arkansas designers and serve as a preview party for Shop Simple Designs’ April 18-19 pop-up at 2400 Cantrell Road, Suite 117. Tickets start at $150. Visit thesimplenest.org for more information and tickets
Opened in 1983, The Full Moon has long been a favorite amongst Little Rock locals for gifts, art, home goods, and accessories. Now the store enters a “new phase” with a change of ownership and a fresh look. With a background in design and retail, new proprietor Stuart Thalheimer Davis hopes to keep the store an outpost for the finds it has become known for (including McCarty Pottery) while introducing new lines and updating the shop’s registry offerings. As of publication, The Full Moon was set to reopen at 3625 Kavanaugh Blvd., Suite E in early spring. Keep an eye on Instagram (@thefullmoonar) for updates and an official reopening date.
Stephanie Maxwell Newton, Editor in Chief STEPHANIE@ATHOMEARKANSAS.COM
GET IN TOUCH!
We love hearing from our readers. If you have a question, correction, or simply want to share your thoughts on a story, email stephanie@athomearkansas.com. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest (@athomearkansas).
Want to hear more about what’s in each issue? Tune in to KARK’s Arkansas Style as editor-in-chief Stephanie Maxwell Newton goes in depth with host Nichole Niemann about the month’s features. Arkansas Style airs weekdays at 2 p.m. on Channel 4 (and online at kark.com/arkansas-style). Follow At Home in Arkansas on social media (@athomearkansas) for updates on Stephanie’s upcoming appearances.
Photos by Rett Peek
CASEY SARKIN HOME
caseysarkininteriordesign.com
3945 N Vantage, Fayetteville AR @shopcshome | @caseysarkindesign Monday - Friday | 10am - 5pm
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1 & 2 Wooden salad servers and brass/ stainless steel butter knives. Box Turtle, Little Rock SHOPBOXTURTLE.COM
3 Bamboo picture frame. Bear Hill Interiors, Little Rock 501.907.9272
4 & 5 Mirrored tray and “Ashley Garden” lattice-print fabric by Covington Fabrics. Cynthia East Fabrics, Little Rock CYNTHIAEASTFABRICS.COM
6 “Bamboo Screen” wrapping paper in Robin’s Egg. Tipton & Hurst, Little Rock TIPTONHURST.COM
8 Varaluz “Nevis” 6-light chandelier in French Gold. GW Lighting and Home, Benton GWLIGHTINGANDHOME.COM
9 Chinoiserie-inspired white resin table lamp.
Cynthia East Fabrics, Little Rock CYNTHIAEASTFABRICS.COM
10 Green ceramic candlesticks. Cobblestone & Vine, Bentonville and Little Rock COBBLESTONEANDVINE.COM
11 & 12 Bamboo cachepot and “Burma” garden stool. Debi Davis Interior Design, Little Rock DEBIDAVISINTERIORDESIGN.COM
13 “Nacala” round mirror. GW Lighting and Home, Benton GWLIGHTINGANDHOME.COM
Photos courtesy of vendors
Piece By Piece
Whatever your style, browse inspiring finds to update your furnishings
PRODUCER TIFFANY ADAMS
“Trellis” entertainment credenza featuring a painted finish and silver leaf champagne-colored fretwork from Hooker Furniture’s “Commerce and Market” collection.
A Fresh Spin
A Little Rock couple enlists designer Miguel Newberg for a clean and classic kitchen update
WRITER TIFFANY
When this couple first set foot in their west Little Rock home some 20 years ago, they were looking for inspiration. “We lived in the neighborhood and were planning to remodel our kitchen when a friend who is a Realtor suggested we look at this house to get a few ideas,” the owner says. As it turns out, the kitchen wasn't the only part of the house they loved. They purchased it and raised
their three children there. Now, more than two decades later, they turned to friend and interior designer Miguel Newberg to update the space for their next phase of life. “Never having done a renovation before, I don’t know what I would have done without Miguel,” the owner says.
“She has a very traditional yet clean style,” Miguel says of her client and the look she was hoping to achieve. “She and her husband wanted an elevated feel but something
Miguel paired the couple’s existing kitchen table with new upholstered chairs from Cobblestone & Vine.
“Alabaster” Sherwin-Williams
that’s not over-the-top.” Notably, they envisioned replacing the room’s dark countertops and lightening the cabinetry that, although painted in a soft neutral, had seemed to yellow over time.
The overall footprint of the space worked well for the homeowners, and they opted to keep it in place. True of many kitchens constructed in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the room had a desk where the couple’s children
CORNER STATION
The wet bar is ideal for serving drinks and appetizers during gatherings. Tucked into a corner, it doesn’t impede the room’s traffic flow and provides everything guests need—from fresh ice to glasses—to make themselves at home. Here, Miguel opted for a mix of concealed and glass-front cabinetry, offering the opportunity to display barware.
frequently did homework when they were younger. No longer necessary, it was replaced with a tall, pantry-style cabinet that houses small appliances and has plug-ins to charge phones and tech accessories. Miguel also raised the doorways, relocated a warming drawer to an oven wall, and specified new appliances, including the island’s cooktop, which has a downdraft vent. These functional features are complemented with warm brass finishes, a standout quartz that also acts as an artful backsplash, and nature-inspired fabric for the window treatments, all of which bring a sense of comfortable elegance.
“I’m very traditional, and Miguel embraces that but also opens my eyes to new things.”
—homeowner
1
GO UP THE WALL
After finding the perfect quartz countertop on their first visit to Pacific Shore Stones, Miguel suggested carrying the material onto the backsplash to maximize its visibility. “We loved the movement and the mix of gold, gray, and just a touch of blue in the veining,” the designer says.
2
CAST A GLOW
The warm brass finish and textured rope shade on the dining table’s chandelier bring a casual elegance to the space. Its woven texture is echoed on the island’s barstools.
3
PUSH THE PULLS
“This hardware is very clean but not plain,” Miguel says, pointing to the pulls’ circular, tiered backplates and banded detail. Its warm brass finish ties in with the faucets and chandelier.
4
BRANCH OUT
When selecting a fabric for the window treatments, the owner was immediately drawn to “Katsura,” a pattern from Thibaut’s Grand Palace collection. “Flowering dogwoods are one of her favorites, so this was an easy choice,” Miguel notes.
MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME
GRATEFULLY
WRITER AND PRODUCER
TIFFANY ADAMS
PHOTOGRAPHER
RETT PEEK
Expressions of gratitude live on in the simple act of a handwritten thank-you note
YOURS
IN AN ERA OF EMAIL, TEXTS, AND SOCIAL MEDIA, THE POWER OF THE GOOD OLD-FASHIONED PEN REMAINS. Open your inbox on any given day and you’ll likely be flooded with tasks, advertisements, and informational memos. Purchase a registry gift online and you may even have the option to check a box indicating no thank-you note is required. Does our current way of life make thank-you notes obsolete—or, perhaps, even more valuable?
If nothing else, a thank-you note signifies time: someone took a moment to gather a card, pen, and stamp, then collect their thoughts on paper. It’s a selfless act that, yes, signals good manners but also a genuine sense of gratitude. And, as a recipient, it’s a thrill to find in the mailbox, all but proving this small and inexpensive deed can transcend mere appreciation and foster human connection. Read on for tips to craft your own notes.
TIMES OF THANKS
There are obvious times when a note of thanks in addition to a verbal acknowledgment seems appropriate. For example, when you’ve received a gift, meal, or act of kindness; when someone hosts an event in your honor or hosts you as a houseguest; or when you are invited to interview for a professional position. Other times, you may simply feel moved to send a note. Perhaps you attend a well-planned event and want to tell the host how much it meant to you, or maybe you want to thank someone who was especially helpful during a business transaction. If you feel inclined to let them know, pick up your pen. Gratitude is always appreciated.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Aside from the expression of thanks, perhaps one of the most enticing things about setting pen to paper is the stationery. As Southerners, we love to personalize notecards with monograms, crests, and icons depicting everything from favorite flowers to sports and games that are so us. Oftentimes, when the recipient opens the note, they have already guessed who sent the sentiment before reading the signature. Whatever you choose, make sure you have plenty of space to express your thoughts. Generally, easy-to-read black ink is the preferred medium to pen your note.
NEED YOU SAY MORE?
As youngsters, our earliest thank-you notes may have read something like this: “Dear Aunt Jean, Thank you for the lovely Christmas sweater. Love, Your Favorite Niece.” While these get the message across (and certainly make Aunt Jean’s heart skip a beat when she opens the scrawled card), consider progressing into a story about how you use the item, what the act of kindness meant to you, a personal anecdote the two of you share, or any other relevant story that cements your connection to the recipient to take your letter to the next level.
BETTER LATE THAN NEVER
While most etiquette books suggest a two-week timeframe, there’s grace to be given. Considering many thank-you notes come following a major life event, it’s understandable that you may not have had hours to devote to crafting a stack of heartfelt missives. All tardiness aside, it’s never the wrong time to say thank you. No matter when you send the note, chances are, you’ll be glad you did.
Notepad, books, stationery, pen, and leather tray all available from Little Rock’s By Invitation Only (501.975.8902).
Discover Fort Smith
The largest city in the Arkansas River Valley is a hub of history, culture, and creativity
WRITER
STEPHANIE
MAXWELL NEWTON
PHOTOGRAPHER LAWRENCE KNOX
Outdoor seating is a popular draw at The Bakery District.
World-class public art, well-preserved historic sites, and shopping and dining along the broad expanse of Garrison Avenue: You’ll find it all in downtown Fort Smith. And while the name “Main Street” might be missing from the street signs, the nonprofit Main Street Fort Smith is hard at work spreading the word to visitors and locals alike. “Our organization started with the idea that if we can bring more arts and culture downtown, economic vitality will result,” says executive director Amanda Hager, who joined the program shortly after moving back to her home state in 2024. “I missed my community,” she says about her return to the River Valley. “There is something special about Fort Smith, and there are a lot of kind, genuine people. It’s where I wanted to raise my son.” For this issue, we spoke with Amanda about the latest happenings in Fort Smith and what’s in store for the city’s future.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR NUMBER ONE RECOMMENDATION FOR SOMEONE VISITING FORT SMITH FOR THE FIRST TIME?
A: You have to see the Unexpected murals. It's like walking around in an open-air, world-class art gallery. We also have an
outdoor entertainment district, so you can enjoy a beverage from one of the many bars and restaurants downtown while you enjoy the art! The city's history is a significant part of its identity and culture. There are many historic sites, but I would say the Fort Smith National Historic Site is a can't-miss destination. The Poteau River and Arkansas River meet at the site making for an incredible view.
Q: WE ’ RE ALL ABOUT SUPPORTING LOCAL DINING ESTABLISHMENTS. DO YOU HAVE ANY GO-TOS?
A: For happy hour, I love to hit up The Bakery District to get my shot of caffeine at Fort Smith Coffee Co. and then walk over to Mad Ox Bar & Tap for libations. For date night, my favorite dinner spots are Doe's Eat Place and 21 West End before going to a show at TempleLive or Majestic Fort Smith; and, of course, we will head to 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge or Prohibition for a nightcap.
Amanda Hager, Main Street Fort Smith Executive Director
Q: SPEAKING OF AREA RESTAURANTS, WE WERE SAD TO HEAR BRICKTOWN BREWERY AND THE HISTORIC BUILDING IT CALLED HOME WERE DESTROYED IN A FIRE LAST FALL. IS THERE ANY WAY MAIN STREET FORT SMITH CAN HELP DURING TIMES LIKE THESE?
A: Losing Bricktown Brewery was a devastating loss. That building was one of the oldest in downtown Fort Smith. When something like this happens, Main Street Fort Smith's role is lending support in any way we can, especially in sharing information about things like tax exemptions, grants, or any resources that might help rebuild. It was really incredible the way the downtown businesses started rallying with fundraisers for employees who were affected. AJ’s Oyster House raised more than $20,000 to support the families, and it was great to see the community come together to support them.
Q: WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU THINK SURPRISES PEOPLE ABOUT FORT SMITH?
A: I think visitors are surprised by the thriving arts and music scene. Not only do we have public art created by world-renowned artists, but we have many local galleries like Hidden Talent Fine
Art Gallery & Restoration. You can see live music pretty much any night of the week, and we have the Levitt AMP Fort Smith Music Series, which provides 10 free concerts a year, as well as other large festivals like Peacemaker Festival in the fall.
Q: ARE THERE WAYS THE CITY AS A WHOLE IS GROWING OR CHANGING THAT EXCITE YOU?
A: The entire city is proud to be the home of Ebbing Air National Guard Base, and the arrival of a training component for the Foreign Military Sales program is a significant economic driver for the city that gives us a chance to show airmen and their families from across the country—and the world—why Fort Smith is a great place to work, raise a family, and visit. Beyond the excitement about these military members and their families coming to our city, there is just a general excitement about Fort Smith growing and moving in many positive directions. It's a vibe! You can feel it when you are here.
Read on for more of our favorite ways to discover Fort Smith.
Clockwise from top middle: Fort Smith Historic Site. The Park at West End. Shoppers walk along Garrison Avenue. A motocross rider gets air at Riverfront Skate & Bike Park. Fort Smith Coffee Co. at The Bakery District.
SHOP
Bibliophiles will want to visit BOOKISH (bookishfs.com), the city’s independently owned book store, to find their next good read. To shop women’s clothing, hit up HAZEL’S HAVEN BOUTIQUE (hazelshaven.com), which carries trending looks, designer denim, and charming accessories. For a sophisticated selection of fine jewelry, visit the newest location of SISSY’S LOG CABIN (sissyslogcabin.com), which has a statewide reputation for a beautiful selection and excellent customer service going on 65 years.
DINE
NEUMEIER ’ S RIB ROOM & BEER GARDEN (479.494.7427) is where the locals go for the ribs and stay for the live music. It has long been a go-to for mouthwatering tamales, too. Italian restaurant PRIMA ITALIA ( primaitaliarestaurant.com) is a newer addition to Garrison Avenue but already a favorite for housemade pasta and an elevated dining experience. For down-home cooking in a cozy atmosphere, 5TH STREET CAFE (479.226.3510) serves classic breakfast and lunch options that hit the spot.
VISIT
Located in nearby Van Buren, ARTS ON MAIN (artsonmainvb.com) is a gallery-meets-community art center dedicated to engaging the entire region in creative opportunities. Next door you’ll find the historic KING OPERA HOUSE ( kingoperahouse.com), which plays host to a line-up of music, theater, and comedy entertainment in an intimate setting. Don’t miss the theater’s $5 movie night, where you can attend screenings of family favorites such as Twister (April 18) and Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (April 19). Since 2020, the LEVITT AMP FORT SMITH MUSIC SERIES ( levitt.org/amp-fort-smith-ar) has brought new life to the city’s Riverfront Amphitheater with live music in the spring and fall. The spring season starts April 3 with concerts every Thursday through May 1, then picks back up again in the fall. Pack a picnic basket and blanket and head to the amphitheater to enjoy the show with a view.
Clockwise from top left: A sign for Holsum Bread pays homage to The Bakery District’s history. A covered wagon on view at Fort Smith Historic Site. One of the Unexpected murals on the northwest wall of Neumeier’s Rib Room. The entrance to the United States Marshals Museum.
SETTING THE STAGE
LOOK TO ARKANSAS ARTS ORGANIZATIONS TO ENGAGE YOUR SENSES THROUGH EXHIBIT OPENINGS, THEATER LINE-UPS, MUSIC FESTIVALS, AND SO MUCH MORE
WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON
MAY16-17
FreshGrass at the momentary
Mark your calendar for the fifth year of FRESHGRASS , Bentonville’s roots and folk music festival held on the grounds of THE MOMENTARY (themomentary.org) MAY 16-17. The event invites award-winning musicians to the stage along with programming such as artist talks, workshops, and competitions. For the 2025 event, headliners include Shakey Graves, the Béla Fleck Edmar Castañeda Antonio Sánchez Trio, Lukas Nelson, and Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal. One-day general admission tickets start at $89 for non-members.
Photo by Douglas Mason and courtesy of The Momentary
APRIL15 415 EVENT
ARTS ON MAIN (artsonmainvb.com) presents 415 EVENT on APRIL 15 at its headquarters in Van Buren. Billed as “the party of the year,” the significance of the event’s name and date is threefold: April 15 is World Art Day and the birthday of artist Leonardo Da Vinci, and 415 is the street address of Arts on Main’s office and community space. This year, organizers promise “funky beats and yummy eats” in the form of a silent disco (in which attendees listen to music on headphones rather than over a loudspeaker) and tacos available from a local food truck. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. at Kings Opera House for a brief welcome before moving next door to the Arts on Main facility. Tickets are $50 (discounts are available for young adults and multiple tickets), and funds raised support Arts on Main’s programs.
Culture Cravings
Additional helpings of theater, dance, music, and more throughout the spring
APRIL 1: The Second City 65th Anniversary Show at Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville
AP RIL 4- 6, APRIL 10-12: The Play That Goes Wrong at South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado
APRIL19
“Kwame Brathwaite: The 1970s”
Little Rock’s ARKANSAS MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS (arkmfa.org) celebrates the work of photographer and activist Kwame Brathwaite with a special exhibit of his work from the 1970s. As co-founder of the African Jazz Art Society and Studios and a series of Afro-centric fashion shows featuring a group known as the Grandassa Models, Brathwaite used his photography to promote these movements. He is also often credited with popularizing the phrase “Black is Beautiful” while championing natural beauty, Black pride, and self-expression. “KWAME BRATHWAITE: THE 1970S” examines the artist’s legacy through a collection of portraits taken both in the studio and in the field. The exhibit is on view beginning APRIL 19 in the Berta and John Baird Gallery. Admission is free.
APRIL 5-6: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents “Fairies and Flowers” featuring the works of Henry Purcell, Jean Françaix, and Felix Mendelssohn at Robinson Center in Little Rock
APRIL 6: Tyler Childers “On the Road” tour with special guest Cory Branan at Simmons Bank Arena in North Little Rock
APRIL 8: Back to the Future: The Musical at Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville
APRIL 9-19: Gypsy at Argenta Contemporary Theatre in North Little Rock
APRIL 11-13: Oasis Film and Digital Media Festival at The Forum Theater in Jonesboro
APRIL 15-16: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents “River Rhapsodies: Timeless Strings” featuring the works of Johannes Brahms, Gabriel Fauré, and Vaughan Williams at the ASO Stella Boyle Smith Music Center in Little Rock
APRIL 16-MAY 4: In the Grove of Forgetting at TheatreSquared in Fayetteville
APRIL 19-20: Pop-up show with oil painter April Burris at Art Group Gallery in Little Rock
APRIL 24-26: "Exploring Abstraction,” a workshop with pastel artist Debora Stewart at Art Group Gallery in Little Rock
APRIL 25-MAY 4: 2025 Arts & the Park: Artventurous in Hot Springs
APRIL 26: Oasis Arts and Eats Fest in Jonesboro
“Untitled (Studio shoot with Marcia McBroom. Album cover for The Players’ Association featuring David Sanborn and Mtume)” by Kwame Brathwaite
Culture Cravings (continued)
MAY 1-18: ArtoSphere at Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville
MAY 1-31: Eureka Springs Festival of the Arts
MAY 2: Resilience and Rest: Artist Talk with Yashua Klos at Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock
MAY 3-4: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents “Song of the Night: Mahler’s Seventh Symphony” at Robinson Center in Little Rock
MAY 10-11: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents “Circus at the Symphony” at Robinson Center in Little Rock
MAY 14-24: On Golden Pond at Argenta Contemporary Theatre in North Little Rock
MAY 23: Fridays on the Lawn return to Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock
JUNE 1-30: “Things Remembered,” an exhibit of work by Donna Twyford at Art Group Gallery in Little Rock
JUNE 4-29: A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder at TheatreSquared in Fayetteville
JUNE 13-AUGUST 31: The Long View: From Conservation to Sustainability : Works from the Bank of America Collection opens at Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock
JUNE 16-22: Bentonville Film Festival
APRIL
DAVID SEDARIS
American author David Sedaris has become a household name—and grown somewhat of a cult following—thanks to his knack for humorous, relatable storytelling. Over the past 30 years, Sedaris has published 11 story and essay collections, been a regular guest on National Public Radio’s This American Life, been nominated for two Grammy Awards, and been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters, all while touring regularly to perform his works and connect with fans. On APRIL 24, the beloved humorist returns to Northwest Arkansas for an appearance at WALTON ARTS CENTER (waltonartscenter.org) as part of the theater’s LOL@WAC comedy series. The show begins at 7 p.m. and admission is $55.
BALLET ARKANSAS
APRIL 24 25-27
BALLET ARKANSAS’s (balletarkansas.org) spring season continues with the traditional-meets-contemporary “NOUVEAU,” an avant-garde performance accompanied by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s Quapaw String Quartet. Performances are APRIL 25 AND 26 at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. That same weekend, the company presents “A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM” set to German composer Felix Mendelssohn's score and featuring a cast of community performers. Also held at Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, see this rendition of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy APRIL 26 AND 27.
Members of Ballet Arkansas perform “Romeo & Juliet: The World’s Greatest Love Story” earlier in the company’s spring season.
Photo courtesy of Ballet Arkansas
Photo by Anne Fishbein and courtesy of Walton Arts Center
David Sedaris, author of Me Talk Pretty One Day and more.
“ART IN BLOOM”
With “ART IN BLOOM," CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART (crystalbridges.org) invites florists to create artful arrangements based on pieces from the museum's collection. This year's theme, Inside/Out, takes this premise one step further (while also extending the length of the exhibit) by integrating sculptures along the museum's trails with container gardens. The indoor portion of the exhibit is ; the outdoor portion also opens May 23 and remains on view THROUGH JUNE 8. Both experiences of “Art In Bloom" are free and open to the public.
MAY 27
The Rep: New Direction
ARKANSAS REPERTORY
THEATRE (therep.org) welcomes STEVE H.
BROADNAX III as its new artistic director in time for the 2025 SummerStage season. Audiences might know the Little Rock native from performances in previous shows at The Rep, including last year’s Jitney, though Broadnax brings with him experience directing on Broadway and serving as co-head of the Master of Fine Arts in Directing program at Penn State University. His first production at the helm of The Rep is a personal one: The season opens on MAY 27 with the world premiere of ME & THE DEVIL , which Broadnax wrote. Described as a “play with music,” the production centers around a blues musician at a Southeast Arkansas juke joint. Me & The Devil runs through June 8 with regular admission starting at $30; ask about discounts for seniors, military, and educators, as well as pay-what-you-can opportunities. The SummerStage season continues with God of Carnage, Hair, The Amen Corner, and The Glass Menagerie.
Photo courtesy of Arkansas Repertory Theatre
Steve H. Broadnax III, Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s new artistic director
The Fashion Files
Head out on the town with these outfit and accessory picks for spring days
Antonio Melani “Alexandra” wide-leg cropped jeans with allover pearl detail, $129. Dillard’s, statewide, dillards.com
3
BTB Los Angeles “Ellie” small woven tote, $189. Box Turtle, Little Rock, shopboxturtle.com
100% raw silk bandana designed by Sophie Mackell for the Arkansas-based Bandana of the Month Club, $24. Bandana of the Month Club, bandanaofthemonth.club
Melissa Hall Simmons
Lavender Dream
A South Arkansas fixer-upper becomes a happy first home at the hands of designer Jeremy Carter
COUTURE KITCHEN
Halley was happy with the shape of the existing galley kitchen but desperately needed more storage. To remedy this, Jeremy reallocated square footage from rooms on the opposite walls to create two walk-in pantries—one for food near the back of the kitchen and one for china and servingware closer to the dining room. The latter is disguised with cabinetry panels, a trick Jeremy also employed with all the room’s major appliances to help the space feel larger. While originally a skeptic about Halley’s color request, Jeremy was on board with the final product. “It turned out so fabulous. It’s one of my favorite kitchens I’ve ever done,” he says.
BUILDING ON A SCHEME
The kitchen’s signature color continues past the cabinetry in the form of a vinyl grasscloth wallcovering that offers texture while being easy to clean. The breakfast table and chairs are both from Halley’s great-grandmother’s collection; Jeremy gave the table a fresh coat of paint and reupholstered the chairs in a Schumacher fabric that fits the scheme. A gilded, sculptural bowl chandelier brings a touch of glam to the space.
Location, location, location—that’s about all this Monticello home had going for it when Halley Ryburn-Powell first considered calling it her own. Having recently moved back to her hometown, she found the house hunt to be more challenging than expected. Eventually her dad had an idea: “When I couldn’t find anything,” she says, “my dad came to me and said, What about the house next to us? ” Sure enough, the rental property next door to her parents was available for purchase. “Of all the times I passed this house, I never imagined I would end up living here,” says Halley, who now shares the home with her husband, Johnathan.
Built in 1951, the house lacked the amenities and flow of modern living, not to mention the personal touches that would help Halley feel at home. Enter Jeremy Carter, a Little Rock-based interior designer who has become a friend of the family in recent years. Jeremy got straight to work on a renovation that touched every surface—from a new roof and refinished hardwood flooring to the addition of a back entrance, garage, and laundry room. “The only rooms that are in the same spots as before are the living, dining, and the kitchen, kind of,” Jeremy says. “We also reworked the staircase to the second floor and all the dormer windows. My goal was really to make it like an English cottage,” he adds.
At the very start of the project, Halley had one request: a kitchen with cabinets painted in her favorite hue. “When she said she wanted a purple kitchen, I thought she was nuts,” Jeremy says. Now, he admits the unconventional choice was the right one, inspiring decisions throughout the house—from the dining room wallpaper to fabric selected for the bedroom—that reflect his friend’s classic style.
The duo also stayed close to home to furnish the house, mostly shopping in what they refer to as “the
warehouse,” which stores antiques that once belonged to Halley’s late greatgrandmother. “It was perfect because it made the house feel collected instead of everything being brand new; and that’s not my aesthetic anyways,” the designer says, noting most of the pieces received new upholstery or custom lampshades to bring them up to date. “My main thing was that I wanted to put a modern twist on a classic,” Halley adds. “I wanted to use my great-grandmother’s things and have the history of our family, but in a new way.” AH
“I really wanted the dining room to feel like a solarium.”
—Jeremy Carter, designer
UPDATED CLASSICS
While the kitchen was entirely revamped, a new apron-front sink is situated in the same spot as the original below a window that overlooks Halley’s parents’ house. The Roman shades here and in the breakfast nook feature box-pleated valances with a Thibaut accent tape in a shade of green that echoes the drapes in the adjoining dining room. “Calacatta” marble countertops, a bridge-style faucet, and inset cabinetry further the room’s polish, while ceramic rabbits from McCarty Pottery—a wedding gift from Jeremy—are a thoughtful addition symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
STYLE IN BLOOM
The dining room’s design started with the Victorian-style bird cage, an heirloom Halley remembers playing with at her great-grandmother’s house as a child. “With the bird cage and big windows, I really wanted the dining room to feel like a solarium,” Jeremy says. He leaned into that inspiration with a flowering mural wallpaper wrapped around the room and French cane motif overhead. “I love getting to use my greatgrandmother’s dining chairs and buffet,” Halley says of the room’s furnishings. “The sconces were also hers, and the wallpaper is similar to what she had in her dining room. This whole room is like an ode to her.”
Striped drapes, a tulip table, and an updated take on a crystal chandelier balance the more traditional elements of the room.
NOW & THEN
While other common spaces are doused in color and pattern, Jeremy wanted the living room–a central hub and the entry point to the home—to employ more neutral tones. “I love color, and not everyone lets you do color like she let me do color,” he says. “But we didn’t oversaturate it. You get some breathing points.” With reworked inherited pieces—including the bamboo table, wingback chair and ottoman, and floor lamp—alongside contemporary swivel chairs and abstract art, the room exhibits a quintessential mix of new and old.
Halley in her Monticello living room. A painting by Sheryl Hibbs from The Showroom in Little Rock plays off the home’s palette while its contemporary style enlivens the classic pieces all around.
“Vapor” Benjamin Moore
SMALL BUT MIGHTY
If the living room is the home’s neutral zone, the powder bath nearby is party central. After joking together about selecting a Gucci wallpaper, Halley found this pattern by the fashion brand and fell in love. “I sent it to Jeremy and he was like, Yes, yes, yes! ” she recalls. Berrycolored hexagonal tiles continue the playful feel underfoot, as does the French Victorian porcelain waste basket. “It’s over the top, and so is that bathroom,” Jeremy says.
LAYERED & LUXE
What is now the primary bedroom was once a sunken den added onto the home later in the 20th century. Jeremy raised the floor to be level with the rest of the home and installed French doors leading to the space to make it feel grand. Paramount to the room’s design was a wall of built-ins to house Halley’s shoe collection. “I wanted it to be a focal point, so we designed the cabinetry with a little more detail,” Jeremy says. Schumacher’s “Versailles” appears on the draperies, bedding, and accent pillows, and the designer customized the headboard and lampshades to reflect their lavender hue.
CLEAN & CLASSIC
Besides a purple kitchen, Halley’s biggest dream for the house was a true primary suite. After reimagining the den as the couple’s bedroom, Jeremy was able to take square footage from the home’s original primary bedroom and turn it into a totally new bathroom and closet. “Carrara” marble countertops and cut-glass cabinetry hardware play off the structure’s traditional bones while Schumacher’s “Fuzz” wallpaper adds a touch of whimsy.
A painting by Arkansas artist Steve Griffith introduces blue into the bedroom’s palette.
Finding Home
Studio MH updates a Fayetteville home in a fresh, traditional style to serve a young family
WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS
PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK
Plans change but personal style remains true. When designer Melissa Hall Simmons’ clients called to say they were pivoting from a new build to a full renovation of an existing property, she was happy to adapt, knowing the principles of the project would stand.
“I had reservations about building, but we felt like it was the only option to get the space we needed and style we wanted,” says the homeowner. In search of inspiration for the new house, a scroll through a realty website led her to an intriguing property.
“It had a similar layout to what we wanted, and trees and landscaping that would have taken decades to get at the other location; so we went for it and bought the house,” she explains.
Melissa, who had been sketching a traditional Georgian home with a front porch much like this residence, turned her attention to the remodel. “Melissa and her team came to look at the house, and she really created the vision for it,” the owner says. “She took the time to understand our personalities, how we operate day-to-day, and how we want people to feel when they come into our home,” the owner adds.
While the entire house received updates, several areas became focal points. For starters, the exterior railing was updated and the entire structure was
SUBTLY SOPHISTICATED
“There were a few rooms we designed that we wanted to feel more elevated and a little more elegant,” Melissa says. To this point, the formal living room feels refined with traditional forms and understated yet interesting fabrics. Melissa reworked the existing fireplace surround to match this style and sourced a work by Alabama artist Kristin Blakeney to hang prominently over the mantel.
MAKING A FIRST IMPRESSION
A previous exterior renovation gave the home Provençal elements, which Melissa repealed in favor of the original style. Playing to the family’s traditional taste, the railings were updated with a timeless fretwork pattern and the facade was painted in a monochromatic scheme, while white-and-green plantings bring vitality to the setting.
painted in a classic monochromatic scheme. Indoors, the kitchen was reconfigured to include a pantry, dual islands that give the family areas for work, prep, and dining, and new finishes that have an ageless appeal. Spaces like the dining room, primary suite, and formal living room were reimagined in an elegant pastel palette and outfitted with family-friendly furnishings. “We have a large friend group, and we want people to feel at ease here with their children and not worry about anything being too nice to use. The
kids can run around with popsicles and Cheetos, and it’s OK!” the owner says.
Today, the home has been fully customized to their needs and tastes—just as they hoped the new build would be.
“Melissa’s attention to detail is impeccable, and the entire Studio MH team is so easy to work with, easy to contact, and quick to have ideas and options,” the owner says. “I think it’s so important to have someone in your corner who makes you feel confident in the process and with the end result.” AH
A WELCOME ENTRY
Melissa added picture frame molding to the elongated, traditional Georgian entrance to enhance its architectural character. At the door, a Federal-style mirror featuring a pediment and Greek-key motif pairs with a contemporary chest, hinting at the mix of current and classic throughout the home. The tasselled stool is a favorite vintage find that can move where needed.
SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW
The dining room design was built around a cherished family heirloom. “The table belonged to my husband’s grandmother,” the owner explains. “Melissa was very thoughtful about working it into the space,” she says of the piece that was paired with new upholstered chairs to comfortably seat eight. A cantaloupehued wallcovering was introduced to complement the blue seating while keeping with the overall serene feel of the house. The contemporary work by Caleb Mahoney brings a youthful vitality to the otherwise traditional space.
“This house is so familyfocused and livable; they didn’t want it to feel audacious or loud.”
—Melissa Hall Simmons, designer
A subtle shimmering sheen provides a fresh take on a traditional plaid wallpaper in the home’s powder bath. Similarly, quartz sconces and an exposed vanity are balanced with a polished brass finish.
KID-FRIENDLY DINING
In the kitchen, walls were removed to expose a formerly enclosed staircase and allow light and sound to travel throughout the high-traffic spaces. The resulting nook was an ideal place for a breakfast table and banquette. Melissa sourced an inexpensive tulip table and chairs from West Elm to create a practical place for little ones to dine. Brass grates cleverly disguise the air return inside the banquette.
Further into the entry hall, a modern burl-wood console table and collection of abstract works are juxtaposed with traditional ginger jars and architectural molding that scales the staircase.
ROOM TO RELAX
While the entire house is kid-friendly and inviting, the family room has a more casual feel due in part to a roomy sectional and television. Located within earshot of the kitchen and adjacent to the pool and backyard, the hangout is the perfect size for the family of five. Melissa opted for a basketweave-pattern vinyl wallcovering that will stand up to wear and tear while adding a refined texture to the area.
PREPWORK MEETS HOMEWORK
Creating a walk-in pantry from an unnecessary closet was paramount to the kitchen renovation, but the dual islands bring just as much functionality, allowing the family to spread out for baking or school projects. While the workspace closest to the range is ideal for food prep and storage, the second offers seating for six along with decorative railings on the ends that create ledges for cookbooks. A mix of solid surfaces—quartz on the counters and marble for the backsplash—is complemented by both brass and chrome finishes, resulting in an evolved, personalized look.
Without a window in the kitchen, Melissa opted to create a focal point over the sink with brass-and-marble shelving. A bevelededge backsplash adds to the shapely design while complementary sconces illuminate the shelves and apron-front sink.
NEUTRAL SHIFT
Marble hexagonal floor tiles along with a mirror frame and counter of the same material set the tone in the primary bath. Melissa opted for a neutral grasscloth on the walls. “It adds so much character to have a wallcovering in a bath rather than painted sheetrock,” the designer says of the selection. Dual window treatments, a sheer that raises and a shade that lowers, provide privacy while allowing light to filter into the room. An antique chair featuring curved swan necks at its top exemplifies the elegance of the room.
CALM CALLING
Pretty and peaceful were the goals for the primary suite. In the bedroom, Melissa employed the icy blue hue seen throughout much of the home to create a tone-on-tone palette. A velvet-upholstered bed provides comfort while bedside lamps and wall-mounted sconces pair to provide plenty of light for nighttime reading.
GOING DEEP
Just off the entry a combination den and office takes a richer turn in terms of palette. “I love it when there’s a bold outlier in a house—a space that’s a bit moodier,” Melissa says of the room that is often used when the couple hosts their closest friends. The artwork over the sofa by Duane Gardner depicts a storm while the penand-ink drawing over the desk is by Clint Brannon.
Design Resources
CONTRACTOR Dennis Moore, Commerce Construction Co. INTERIOR DESIGN Melissa Hall Simmons, Studio MH LANDSCAPE DESIGN Four Seasons Landscaping ACCESSORIES, BEDDING, FABRICS, FIXTURES, FURNITURE, HARDWARE, LIGHTING, MIRRORS, TILE, AND WALLPAPER Studio MH CABINETRY AND MILLWORK Timber Mill Wood Products CARPET AND RUGS Studio MH and Tom January Floors COUNTERTOPS New Century Countertops FLOORING Wood Floor Gallery FRAMING Scott Frame and Art WALLPAPER (INSTALLATION) Bill Story, Perpetual Vision WINDOW COVERINGS
THE COUNTRY HOUSE
Emily with the couple’s Great Pyrenees, Blue (left) and Pearl, as well as a chicken from the backyard coop.
Enchanted by room to roam, an established farmhouse, and a slower pace, Emily and Mark Brown cultivate a homestead on the outskirts of Little Rock
The road less traveled led Emily Brown to the rural property she and her husband, Mark, and their two children now call home. “I dropped my son off at school one morning, and something in me decided to drive west toward Paron and Ferndale,” Emily says. She happened upon a “for sale” sign leading to this house and its attached acreage. As the owner of Little Rock women’s boutique Tulips, Emily has a keen eye and was immediately taken with the find. Later that day, the listing Realtor happened to drop by the shop, all but sealing the fate of the purchase.
Having recently worked with friend and designer Krista Lewis on a makeover of their Pleasant Valley home (featured in the May 2016 issue of At Home in Arkansas), the Browns called on her for an opinion before inking the deal. “I remember thinking this is so them,” Krista recalls. “The house and its architecture are what drew us in,” Emily adds. “We say we traded a bathtub and big closets for land and a homestead situation.”
Originally constructed as part of an orchard farm in the 1970s, Emily has heard stories that pieces of the frame were brought from New England and constructed here. It was known as Twigs Country Farm, a moniker the family carries on today. Since its initial construction, timeless structural updates had
been made by the previous owners with the help of contractor MJ Herr. With the functional elements in place, Krista and Emily added layers of personalization through paint, wallpaper, and furnishings, making the house a true reflection of the family as well as the setting. “Krista recognizes the history and architecture of homes, not just the trends. She and I have a deep relationship, and I trust her vision for all of my projects,” Emily says.
To this point, not everything in the house is new or pulled from a showroom line. Pieces from their previous home were used in places where they made sense, chairs and headboards were refreshed with new upholstery, and memory-rich collections, artwork, and game mounts are dotted throughout the spaces. “The older we get, the more we want a home that feels lived in,” Emily says. “I want pieces that go with the style of what we’re creating and not against the house,” she adds.
In many ways, the family’s homes have evolved with Emily’s personal and professional style through the years. “She’s not trying to completely reinvent herself with each home but it always stays fresh,” Krista says. “It’s a big blessing to get to live in the house, and I think it will be in the family for a long time. My kids definitely love it, and they want to come back to it,” Emily adds. AH
WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS STYLIST ANGELA ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK
While the exterior remained as it was when purchased, the Browns worked with Stafford Fine Gardening on plantings like voluminous ‘Limelight’ hydrangeas that frame the fenced entrance.
A PERFECT FIT
Built in the 1970s, the home’s rooms are cozy yet comfortable and inviting. “They are not huge spaces, so we did have to get rid of some things in the move,” Krista says. Notably, the Browns’ long dining table was swapped for a skirted round version that fits in the square-shaped dining room. While the chandelier was already in place, Krista accented its traditional style with a printed botanical grasscloth wallpaper, antique urns on the sideboard, caneback chairs with cushions made from an indoor/outdoor velvet, and a contemporary work by Nashville artist Kayce Hughes. “I especially love a round table because everyone can gather around it, and the skirt gives you the flexibility to change out the look down the road,” the designer says.
COME ON IN
The back entrance leads into a small hallway lined with Pierre Frey’s “Espalier,” which depicts a grid of twigs—a play on the home’s epithet. Krista topped the existing wooden bench with a custom gingham cushion that is laminated for durability. Wooden pegs make for a casual drop zone that neatly corrals hats, coats, and bags.
WOODSY, BUT MAKE IT FEMININE
The living room’s blue hue was inspired by an existing tile on the stair risers in the entry. Paired with a faux bois wallpaper on the ceiling, antelope-patterned sofa, and Emily’s collection of Spode “Woodland” plates—pieces her mother-in-law gifts her for special occasions— there’s a notably masculine tone in the space that is artfully punctuated with a girlish addition. “A pink couch with tassels works just as well here as it did in their previous house,” Krista says. “I always laugh because Mark is game for anything. He is one of the manliest men I know, but he’s like, Whatever; it’s not threatening to him,” the designer adds.
THE COZIEST CORNER
In the fireplace nook, a club chair upholstered in “Chappana” by Thibaut with a ruffled skirt pairs with prints from artist Linda Fraser, all of which are in the same family of blue as the walls. The deer seen above the fireplace was harvested by the couple’s son, Peyton. “Mark has one rule: We don’t hang any mounts that are not from our family,” Emily says, pointing to similar pieces throughout the house.
“Moody Blue” Sherwin-Williams
FLORAL & FUNCTIONAL
In the primary bedroom, Krista recovered her clients’ headboard in an indoor/outdoor fabric and coordinated bedding in the same durable material, allowing them to live at ease with their dogs while also providing a quick style refresh. “We joke with Krista that she always knows to bring in items that are ‘bulletproof.’ She has the ability to make things very pretty but they can often be washed off with a water hose,” Emily says with a laugh. Adding to the femininity, florals show up on the window treatments (“Wisteria Vine” by Shumacher) and light fixture. Emily purchased the egg-themed artwork after a trip to Blackberry Farm led her to discover Aly M. Art.
“I want pieces that go with the style of what we’re creating and not against the house.”
—Emily Brown, homeowner
FIT FOR A TEEN
The trim and walls in Emily and Mark’s daughter’s room were already painted pink, but Krista came up with a scheme that made it feel more like the teenage girl. “Millie didn’t want the pink initially, but I suggested we tone it down with this really pretty gray wallpaper to make it a little more grown up, and she was on board,” the designer recalls. A second, starry gold wallpaper on the ceiling ties in with the yellow in the quilt and the bedside lamps. The string of ribbons across the head of the bed are from horse show wins, while the felt art by Sam Sidney on the bedside features Albert Einstein. “Millie is dyslexic, and we’ve always told her Einstein was, too,” Emily says of the meaningful and inspiring work. “I love that it’s a modern piece that is juxtaposed with this traditional room,” she adds.
A LIGHTER FARE
In the kitchen, Krista painted the wood paneled walls in a shade of white to match the cabinetry. For functionality, an island topped with a butcher block counter was added to the center of the room. With the perimeter cabinetry and appliances staying in place, Krista and Emily focused their efforts on personalization through pendant lights with fabric shades and verdant barstools that bring in color.
BOOTH & TABLE
Adjacent to the kitchen island, the goal for the breakfast nook was plenty of room for teenagers. Krista dreamed up a custom pedestal table and banquette to fit the bill. Its traditional Colefax and Fowler “Bowood” fabric was laminated to stand up to everyday use by the crowd. A scalloped overhead fixture and sconces with fabric shades echo the green from the nearby barstools.
ARTFUL ADDITION
With blue being a thread throughout the living spaces, Krista was inspired to carry the hue onto the keeping room’s fireplace surround. “I had seen so many Delft tiles and thought those would be perfect for this stove area, but I wanted them to be specific to their family,” she says. She turned to Russellville-based ceramicist Winston Taylor for a collaboration that features the family in scenes around the house: Emily at the front door, Millie on her horse, Peyton and Mark fishing, hydrangeas, chickens, and their beloved pets. “It’s so, so sweet. This is my favorite area of the house, and I love that the tiles look like they’ve been here forever,” Emily says. Cozy chairs covered in a buffalo check fabric, stackable footstools, and painted green lanterns complete the space.
UNDER THE SURFACE
Just off the home’s back entry is a winding staircase with a rope railing that leads to a wine cellar. Outfitted with stone, Krista dressed up the area with a floral, rufflededge bench and green scalloped sconces—a perfect perch to enjoy a glass from the collection. Emily notes the space is large enough to serve as a shelter for the entire family and their dogs during storms.
“She’s not trying to completely reinvent herself with each home but it always stays fresh.”
—Krista Lewis, designer
The Browns traded a hot tub for space for a round dining table on the screened porch. A comfortable sofa and wicker chairs with cushions in Pindler’s “Quilt” pattern make for a year-round conversation area at the porch’s opposite end.
Design Resources
DESIGN Krista Lewis, K. Lewis Interior Design
BEDDING, FABRICS, FURNITURE, LIGHTING, MIRRORS, RUGS, WALLPAPER, AND WINDOW COVERINGS K. Lewis Interior Design FRAMING BK Moulding
Call on one of these trusted (and well-loved!) professionals when buying or selling your next house—and heed their advice to make the process easier than ever
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR AGENTS!
Vicki Biggs (Maumelle)
Brad Miles (North Little Rock)
Bill Cooley (Bill & Kristyn Cooley Team, Hot Springs)
Nola Ford (Maumelle)
Kristyn Cooley (Bill & Kristyn Cooley, Hot Springs)
Nichole Lewis (Kanis)
Austin Wingfield (Kanis)
Kathy Patton (Kanis)
Kerry Dare (Dare-Smith Team, North Little Rock)
Carole Smith (Dare-Smith Team, North Little Rock)
Stacey Russell (North Little Rock)
Madeline Blackwell (North Little Rock)
Cindy Edgar (North Little Rock)
DeAnn Wiliams (Benton)
Teresa Keesee (Benton)
Caty Douglas (Benton)
Nedra Plumlee (Hot Springs)
Danella Snider (Kanis)
Tinka Rogers (Benton)
Linda Sanders (Kanis)
Mike Zanoff (North Little Rock)
Briana Taylor (Central Arkansas Marketing Director)
Johnny McKay (Johnny and Cece McKay, Kanis)
Cece McKay (Johnny and Cece McKay, Kanis)
Robert Richardson (Kanis)
Lisa Holloway-Sugg (Maumelle)
Jennifer Tilley Smith (Maumelle)
Jerri Berry (Money Berry Team, North Little Rock)
Sommer Salgaonkar-Briscoe (Money Berry Team, North Little Rock)
Carol Slattery (North Little Rock)
Lindsey Brannon (North Little Rock)
Brenda Rhoads (North Little Rock)
Karen Hayes (Maumelle)
Debbie Orton (Benton)
Valerie Moran (Kanis)
Angie Johnson (Angie Johnson & Karen Crowson, Benton)
Betsy Arey (Maumelle)
Karen Crowson (Angie Johnson & Karen Crowson, Benton)
Mark Leggett (Regional Manager, Central Arkansas)
Kim Burks (Maumelle)
Misti Holland (Benton)
Morgan Gullett (Benton)
Congratulations to our agents named 2025 At Home’s Agents to Love
Johnny Passmore, Larissa Binns, Yvonda Kissinger, Inez Reeder, Amber Cullipher, Jill Turner, Serethia Crawford, Sean Edds, Amy Eden, Carol Ford, Shay Ledbetter, Eden Roberts, Kim Robbins, Allison Pickell, Stephenie Vanderford, marva caldwell, dana kellerman, la kesha crow
Not pictured: Whitney Elmore, Sarah manning, lynn pangburn, lori quinn, velda lueders
Back Row - Left to Right: Ashley Cifreo, Jacob Hall, Mindy Barranco, Gina Gunderman, Cortney Golden, Gayle Crawford, Erika Peters Front Row - Left to Right: Karen Thornton, Shannon Brooks, Michele Phillips, Terry Keck, Lizzi Phillips
Felicia Ann Johnson
For Felicia Ann Johnson, the values she prioritizes in her career are the same ones ingrained in her daily life. “As a nine-year Army veteran, I bring discipline, dedication, and a sense of service to everything I do,” she says, noting that her role as a devoted mother and stepmother also influences her work. As a recent addition to The Sudar Group, Felicia has looked to her firm’s principal broker, Corrine Sudar, as well as its managing executive broker, Charlene Wade, for guidance. “Their deep industry knowledge and dedication to equip me with the best tools for success,” she says. In the process of helping her clients buy and sell homes, Felicia has grown to love every step along the way. “Every transaction is an opportunity to build lasting relationships, and I’m proud that my clients have trusted me to guide them through these significant milestones,” she says.
GET SET TO SELL
QDo you think it’s best to renovate a kitchen or bath before putting a house on the market? Or do buyers want the opportunity to purchase, then make selections themselves?
“Kitchen and bath remodels bring the most value, but not necessarily right before selling. It’s better to enjoy the improvements while you own the home rather than rush a remodel before listing. If you’re selling soon, pricing aggressively and letting the buyer handle updates is often the smarter financial move.”
—RAY ELLEN, PIXEL PROPERTIES
“I think this depends on the area your home is located in and what the market looks like there. Some homes sell fine without updates. A knowledgeable Realtor can help you assess the situation.”
—HOLLY DRIVER, SIGNATURE PROPERTIES
“Most buyers we are currently working with in our market are leaning toward purchasing homes that are turnkey and in fabulous condition; they lead busy lives and don’t want to spend the time, energy, and effort on a remodel. Plus, some buyers don’t even know where to begin. However, if a home has baths that are mildly dated rather than in need of a total remodel, that might make it more palatable to a buyer who is looking to move right in.”
—SUSAN REYNOLDS, THE JANET JONES COMPANY
QWhat are some easy updates that will give you the most bang for your buck before listing a house?
“Decluttering your space will go a long way when your home is being shown to others! It’s also helpful to make sure that any deferred repairs are complete before putting it on the market. You want your home to be in tip-top condition when you are ready to sell.”
—ELLEN WEINER, PORCHLIGHT REALTY
“Fresh paint, flooring, new light fixtures, and adding a little razzle dazzle to a boring bathroom will give the home a light facelift without breaking the bank.”
—TAKEIA JOHNSON, MID SOUTH REALTY
“One area that’s often overlooked but makes a major impact? Landscaping. First impressions matter, and buyers decide how they feel about a home within 11 seconds—often before they even step through the front door. Simple tasks like power washing, freshening up garden beds, repainting the front door, and adding seasonal plants can make a huge difference in curb appeal.”
—RYAN STEPHENS, ENGEL & VÖLKERS
Agents left to right: Wally Loveless, Scott Smith, Leslie Tetrev, Jennifer Adkins, Bryan Pitts, Edward Loveless
Back row, Left to Right: Tiffany Lindsey, Jordan Roehrenbeck, Lauren Clark, Michelle Miller, Emily McCarty, Erica Ibsen, Jenn Cook Front Row, Left to Right: Jonie Burks, Amber Gibbons, Mollie Birch, Sheryl McKelvey, April Findlay, Myranda Grulke, Emily Young
Not pictured: Jill Childers, Heather McNeil, Matty Ross
QHow should buyers prioritize all the important factors that go into buying a home?
“It’s important to remember that location is the one thing you cannot change about a home, so being in a neighborhood that makes you happy and suits your lifestyle is very important. Budget is really determined by someone’s needs as well; just because you can afford a home on paper doesn’t mean it’s the best for you, especially if you enjoy spending money on things outside of your home.”
—VICTORIA KILLOUGH, ENGEL & VÖLKERS
“The budget will always be the first priority. We need to know what you’re preapproved for and what you’re comfortable spending. We then build a list of must-haves and would-like-to-haves, and we go from there to pair you with the perfect home.”
—TAKEIA JOHNSON, MID SOUTH REALTY
“The best thing is to have an in-depth buyer consultation before beginning the home search, and go back to it if the client is having a hard time determining what they want. Asking the right questions as a Realtor can really help the buyer find what they want.”
—HOLLY DRIVER, SIGNATURE PROPERTIES
“One of the biggest things we do to help buyers is educate them on how to prevent closing delays. Using a name on the title that doesn’t match the buyer’s legal name, failing to provide documentation of any LLCs or trusts involved, and including an incomplete address on the contract can all cause a hold-up in the transaction. We also suggest that all signing parties plan to attend closing day with vital documentation, valid photo IDs, and any needed form of payment in hand.”
—BILLIE JEAN MORGAN, PRO LAND TITLE
QWhat are the top features you feel buyers want right now?
“A move-in-ready home. Buyers are short on cash so prefer to not have to do any painting, replace flooring, etc. Square footage has become less important, and price outweighs most everything.”
—KERRY DARE & CAROLE SMITH, CRYE-LEIKE REALTORS
“My buyers have been most interested in layout. Some want open-concept, while others want rooms with walls and doors to serve specific functions, like a home office or play space for their children.”
—COURTNEY MCNALLY, ARKANSAS HOME COLLECTIVE REALTY
“Buyers are looking for energy efficiency to offset high utility costs, smart-home technology, and flexible spaces that can serve as home offices, wellness areas, or entertainment rooms. Outdoor living areas are also a big draw, especially here in The Natural State.”
—RAY
ELLEN, PIXEL PROPERTIES
BEFORE YOU BUY
by
Pixel Properties
Thank you to our clients and friends who nominated us as one of At Home in Arkansas’s “Real Estate Agents to Love.” We love you, too!
From the late-night calls planning our next video shoot; to the sellers
rearranging a weekend so we can gather drone and 360 footage; to all the parents keeping the house spotless while kids and dogs run wild; to all the clients waiting to come home from work later so another buyer can see the house; to all
the group texts, electronic signature fails; and to the lenders, title companies, inspectors, and appraisers behind the scenes who power our marketing: We appreciate YOU so much!!
Our team has spent years working with thousands of
clients to create content that drives massive exposure and a phenomenal home buying and selling experience. Being nominated and recognized affirms our dedication to modernizing real estate for you.
Pixel Properties Team with REAL Broker
Photo
Connor North Goad
Left to Right: Amber McGoogan, Matt Ferrell, Ray Ellen, & Sara Thorpe
5509 Springvale Road
North Little Rock
501.765.0036
porchlightar.com @ellen.w.realtor
Ellen Weiner
Serving all of central Arkansas, Ellen Weiner is a dedicated Realtor who is ready to help you sell your current home and/or purchase your next residence. Ellen is backed by the support of the PorchLight Realty team, which she notes is like a family who support and motivate one another—all with the goal of helping you to find your dream location and house.
Personally, Ellen wants her clients to feel heard and supported. She tries to achieve this through her friendly approach and industry experience. “I have a deep
knowledge of the local market, and I provide valuable insights to help clients make informed real estate decisions,” she says. “As a dedicated and experienced agent, I go above and beyond to find the best opportunities and handle every challenge to make transactions smooth and successful.”
As a volunteer with The Centers for Youth and Families, she also enjoys giving back to the community. Additionally, she continues to pursue her education in the field and is currently enrolled in the Graduate Realtors Institute.
SERVICE AREAS ACCOLADES
Central Arkansas
Multi-million dollar producer 2021-2024
3009 West Markham, Little Rock
501.232.8964
hoffmanteamrealestate.com @thehoffmanteamlr
The Hoffman Team,
River Rock Realty
Executive broker Jamie Hoffman and Realtors David Dabous and Katchiri Moody make up The Hoffman Team Real Estate and Property Management, a trio that draws on their diverse skillsets to deliver the best experience for their clients. For example, Jamie’s background as a licensed contractor allows him to help clients see remodel potential while keeping in mind their budgets, and David and Katchiri’s years in property management contribute to their broad industry knowledge. “The three of us share common goals and make a concerted effort to provide a signature brand of customer service,” Jamie says. With the support of the rest of the Hoffman Team staff under River Rock Realty and knowledge of the central Arkansas market, this dynamic team is equipped to help clients looking to sell their home as well. “We’re dedicated to exceeding expectations,” Jamie adds.
SERVICE AREA ACCOLADES
Central Arkansas Double Diamond Award for 2024, 2023, and 2022
Photo by Connor North Goad
Left to right: Tami Zimmerman, Danielle Smith, Trey Garrett, Jamie Hoffman, Katchiri Moody, Kaitlyn Eaton, Holly Cottrell, and David Dabous.
DANA YATES, PHILLIP BRIDGES, KRISTEN HINSON, STEFAN JONES, NATE PERRY, MARGARET BELL HUGHES, CARA HAZLEWOOD, ROBERT KLEIN
Reed Principal Broker, Owner
870.310.7333 jasonreedc21@gmail.com
Reed Sales Agent, Owner
870.310.8844 patti.reed@yahoo.com
870-310-6675 pammywilson2003@yahoo.com
Somer Adams is an accomplished Real Estate Sr Vice President and Executive Broker at Lindsey & Associates, Inc , bringing over two decades of expertise in both residential and commercial real estate With a remarkable track record, she has successfully facilitated over $110 million in commercial sales and lease transactions and over $339 million in residential sales establishing herself as one of the industry's top professionals
"I have been beyond blessed to have a career I absolutely love in an everchanging industry that continuously challenges me to learn professionally and grow personally My priority is always putting my clients' best interests first and honoring the trust they place in me to help them achieve their real estate goals "
Somer’s dedication and expertise have earned her a covete d spot among the Top 10 Realtors in all of Northwest Arkansas, recently ranking #6 in the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal's Top 100 Real Estate Agents Her outstanding performance has also been recognized with the highest ranking NABOR Triple Diamond Award for an impressive seven consecutive years
With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Somer Adams continues to redefine success in real estate, delivering exceptional service and results for her clients
Cell: 479 601 3732
Office: 479.636.2200 sadams@lindsey.com someradams com/lindsey com
Staci Medlock
For almost 20 years, Staci Medlock has been helping clients find their dream homes and sell their current residences. From first-time buyers to repeat customers, much of her business is based on referrals. Staci is backed by the staff and co-agents at Re/Max Elite, whom she describes as a “family-style” support system. “I am a very hard worker and put my all into every aspect of what I
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do,” Staci says. “The current market is more competitive than ever, and I’m competitive negotiating for my clients. I also have experience with the building process, renovating old homes, and helping my clients find the perfect investment properties. I tell my clients, let me handle everything! Most of the time I’m solving problems they don’t even know they have. I genuinely love what I do!” 2411
Central Arkansas, and statewide per client request
2016 President of the North Pulaski Board of Realtors (NPBR), 2016 NPBR Realtor of the Year, Diamond level multi-million dollar producer for almost 20 years, Justice of Peace for Pulaski County Quarum Court for District 15 for 4 terms.
QWhat’s something that can make the buying or selling process easier that you wish more people knew?
“Getting prepared early. For a buyer, that means meeting with a trusted lender to answer all of your financing questions and knowing your comfort level when it comes to budget. For a seller, that means making sure the property is 100% ready prior to going on the market. You only get one first impression, so make it count. It can often bring you a higher offer in the end.”
—SOMER ADAMS, LINDSEY & ASSOCIATES
“Doing a pre-inspection and having repairs completed prior to putting your house on the market allows buyers to view the home through a transparent lens, and it takes away the fear of the unknown with the home inspection. It also allows sellers to get to a very accurate bottom line as they already know what repairs will cost.”
—KRISTEN MCCREADY, KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY LITTLE ROCK
“With buyers, I have an initial buyer’s consultation where I learn their needs and wants and talk through the lending and home buying process so they have a clear understanding of how it works. With sellers, it is important to price your home competitively and attractively. I will make sure that it is in market-ready condition and market it professionally to ensure you get a quality buyer and sell your home for top dollar.”
—ELLEN WEINER, PORCHLIGHT
REALTY
“One thing I think sellers should be aware of are seller impersonation fraud and wire fraud. Hackers will insert themselves into transactions via hacked emails and change or send incorrect wiring instructions. Then, the buyer/seller will send the money, which will be out of the country and unrecoverable within minutes. There is not insurance to protect against this and in most cases, the Realtor or buyer/seller will be on the hook for it. We have a program to verify sellers to ensure our realtor partners are safe and don’t waste their time on a fraudster, but many title companies do not.”
—BILLIE
JEAN
MORGAN, PRO LAND TITLE
“It may seem obvious in an article about real estate agents, but remember—we are the experts. Trust your agent that you are hiring to help you throughout the entire process. Whether it is pricing your home to sell or maneuvering the purchase process, trust your agent.”
—MARK LEGGETT, CRYE-LEIKE REALTORS
SIMPLIFY THE PROCESS
Brooksie Hartness
Kelly Tedder
Kelly Tedder is an executive broker and Realtor with PorchLight Realty and has more than 17 years of experience in real estate. “I love working with new home buyers, new construction homes, and have recently thrown my hat into building a few homes in Cabot,”she says. She also enjoys flipping homes and finding investment properties for her clients. “I have a very strong work ethic, and I believe that hard
work pays off.”
At PorchLight Realty, Kelly believes she’s found family in her workplace. “When you love where and who you work with, it’s not a job anymore,” she says. She finds joy in the ever-present challenge that is the real estate industry, from keeping up with a fast-paced market to learning lending and title issues. “The best part of my job is seeing the look on my clients’ faces when they find the home that fits,” she adds.
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Central Arkansas, including Cabot and Little Rock Air Force Base
2014 South Main St.
Double Diamond Award (2023, 2022, 2021, 2020) and more than $12 million in sales in 2024.
Rebecca Seyller
Rebecca Seyller’s passion for both people and real estate makes her stand out in the industry. “My love for my community has been the foundation of my success,” she says.
As the principal broker and owner of Stuttgart’s Rice Realty, she is dedicated to serving others with her extensive knowledge of the real estate industry. “My persistence in my work and dedication to people are my strongest assets,” she adds.
Rebecca leads a team of six real estate agents and a full-time office administrator. Beyond sales, Rice Realty also operates a property management division specializing
in long-term rentals.
Executive Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI, MRS, and NAR
In addition to her work in real estate, Rebecca is deeply involved in the community. She serves on the Stuttgart Memorial Hospital Foundation Board, on the local school board, and the First Methodist Church Council. She is also an active member of the Stuttgart Kiwanis Club, further demonstrating her commitment to the area. “In real estate, it is essential to know the client’s needs, the current market, and the community you work in. Success is enjoying the process and people you work with, and I do,” she says.
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Southeast to Central Arkansas
Named Best Real Estate Brokerage and Best Real Estate Agent in the community
Photo by Connor North Goad
Dare-Smith Team, Kerry Dare & Carole Smith
With different sets of talents and complementary personalities, Crye-Leike executive brokers Kerry Dare and Carole Smith make an unstoppable real estate team. “We like to remind clients that they are getting two agents for the price of one,” Kerry says. “One of us is more of the numbers oriented and the other is more on the creative side. Together, we make one excellent real estate team!”
Kerry and Carole also hold designations such as Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited
Buyer’s Representative, Seller’s Representative Specialist, Real Estate Negotiations Expert, and more. Their primary goal is to make every transaction as seamless and stress-free as possible while forging lasting relationships with each client.
“For the past three years, our volume has ranged from $12 million to $21 million,” Carole says. “While those numbers are important, we prefer to look back and think of how many families we helped.” 3400
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daresmithteam.com @daresmithteam
Central Arkansas, including Little Rock, North Little Rock, Sherwood, Jacksonville, Cabot, Mayflower, Vilonia, Benton, and Bryant
Double Diamond Award 2024, Diamond Award 2023, and Triple Diamond Award 2022 and 2021
12814 Cantrell Road Little Rock
Lolly 501.960.4277
Michelle 501.837.9189 lollyhonea.com
Lolly Honea & Michelle Honea-Frueauff
As The Honea Team, motherdaughter duo Lolly Honea and Michelle Honea-Frueauff bring more than 50 years combined of personal experience to their clients. Both Lolly and Michelle’s husbands have played an active role in their success. Ross, Lolly’s late husband, ran a successful insurance business, and Michelle’s husband, David, is the CEO of the Charles A. Frueauff Foundation. They have vast knowledge of the Little Rock market as well as the Ferndale area, which is becoming
one of the most sought-after areas in west Little Rock. In addition, Michelle has more than 20 years of IT experience, allowing them to market your home quickly and effectively through multiple platforms. Their firm, Keller Williams Realty, offers highly advanced, technology-driven marketing and communication applications to its clients. They are extremely grateful their clients have entrusted them with one of their most valuable assets, their home.
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Little Rock and West Pulaski County
Double Diamond Status for over 30 years with the Little Rock Realtors Association and a Little Rock Soirée Best Realtor. Sold $92 million+ in the past 5 years.
Photo by Connor North Goad
KNOW THE MARKET
QWhat are your industry predictions for the coming year in your market?
“The central Arkansas market is undergoing a period of recalibration, creating both challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers. Pricing is becoming more realistic as sellers adjust expectations to meet buyer demand. Movein-ready homes with thoughtful, high-impact updates continue to attract the strongest offers, while homes that are overpriced or outdated are seeing more days on market. Neighborhoods that offer a mix of affordability, lifestyle appeal, and community engagement—such as revitalized areas like Pettaway—are drawing interest. The luxury and niche markets require tailored marketing strategies to connect with the right buyers.”
—RYAN STEPHENS, ENGEL & VÖLKERS
“I am lucky to work in the Northwest Arkansas market where we have had continued growth over the past 20 years. With the dedication of several Fortune 500 companies based in our area and all of the attractions and benefits that draw people here, the sky is the limit. I believe Northwest Arkansas is one of the best places to invest in real estate in the state.”
—SOMER ADAMS, LINDSEY & ASSOCIATES
“Being the optimist I am, I always believe it’s a good time to buy or sell a home. Interest rates are higher than they were for a while, but are still at a great place compared to rates through the years. Prices are appreciating in our area, and real estate is always the best investment.”
—JANET JONES, THE JANET JONES COMPANY
“We have been slowly recovering from a red-hot market during COVID with the lowest mortgage rates ever. As those rates normalize, it is going to take some time to get back to a new normal. I think 2025 will remain slower than usual, in line with what we saw in 2024.”
—MARK LEGGETT, CRYE-LEIKE REALTORS
“It’s hard to predict what the year will bring, but Arkansas’s real estate market has remained steady through the years when other markets have had more fluctuations. We look forward to a positive year with lots of happy buyers and sellers!”
—KERRY DARE & CAROLE SMITH, CRYE-LEIKE REALTORS
RYAN STEPHENS
The rebirth Breckenridgeof
Talking Barbecue with Kat Robinson
Food Hall of Fame Inductees
TASTE OF ARKANSAS
Possum Pie
WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK
IF YOU’RE PLANNING A STOP AT A ROADSIDE CAFÉ, CHURCH POTLUCK, OR THIS MONTH’S ARKANSAS PIE FESTIVAL IN CHEROKEE VILLAGE, DON’T SLEEP ON THE POSSUM PIE. Much like its namesake, the dessert conceals its true appearance (i.e. “plays possum”) but has a refreshing depth. While not hiding possum meat—as many outside the region have guessed—its fluffy whipped cream topping has three treats underneath it: chocolate pudding, a cream cheese mixture, and a pecan shortbread crust. For those who are less inclined to mention the mischievous marsupial on their menu, it’s known by a number of other names, including Four Layer
Delight, The Next Best Thing to Robert Redford, and Chocolate Layer Pie. And, while there’s nothing that says you can’t make it in a pie dish, it’s traditionally made in a 9-x-13 baking pan and served in squares. This rendition, a menu special from The Pizzeria in Little Rock, was set atop a chocolate drizzle for a little something extra.
Find more upcoming food festivals and restaurant info in the latest release of our sister publication, PLATED: THE ARKANSAS DINING GUIDE , available exclusively at platedmag.com.
