At Home in Arkansas | October 2023

Page 1

Kaufman by Design West

501.673.3978 • 14900 CANTRELL RD. LITTLE ROCK • KAUFMANLUMBER.COM HARDWARE | MONDAY - FRIDAY: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM • SATURDAY 8:00 AM - 1 PM SHOWROOM | MONDAY - FRIDAY: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM • SATURDAY 8:30 AM - 1 PM
WALK-IN CLOSET YOUR CLOSET IS A CANVAS
Be reinspired. See your wardrobe in a whole new light. You will wonder why you didn't do this sooner. Call (501) 901-7105 for a free in-home or virtual design consultation and estimate. Visit us online at closetfactory.com. Showroom 2216 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, AR 72202 ©2021 Closet Factory. All right reserved. CLOSETS • GARAGES • HOME OFFICES • ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS • WALL BEDS • WALL UNITS • LAUNDRY ROOMS • PANTRIES • CRAFT ROOMS • MUD ROOMS • WINE ROOMS WALK-IN CLOSET YOUR CLOSET IS A CANVAS Reinspire Be reinspired. See your wardrobe in a whole new light. You will wonder why you didn't do this sooner. Call (501) 901-7105 for a free in-home or virtual design consultation and estimate. Visit us online at closetfactory.com. Showroom 2216 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, AR 72202 ©2021 Closet Factory. All right reserved. CLOSETS • GARAGES • HOME OFFICES • ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS • WALL BEDS • WALL UNITS • LAUNDRY ROOMS • PANTRIES • CRAFT ROOMS • MUD ROOMS • WINE ROOMS
Reinspire
2 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 Vol. 28, No. 9 © 2023 by Root Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpts granted by written request only. At Home in Arkansas™ (ISSN 1540-8914, USPS# 020-999) is published 11 times a year (January/February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December) by Root Publishing, Inc., 2207 Cottondale Lane, Little Rock, AR 72202. Periodicals Postage Rates are Paid at Little Rock, AR and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to At Home in Arkansas™; 2207 Cottondale Lane, Little Rock, AR. October 2023 | At Home with the Pros SHOP Clear Winners DESIGN Bedding Bests REFRESH The Perfect Mix Style Life Special Sections TASTE Springdale’s Little Eataly DISCOVER The Delta Katie and John Aaron Rees’s Little Rock dining room. Photography by Rett Peek. See page 33. On The Cover WELCOME END NOTES THE FASHION FILES LOCAL FINDS THE WELLNESS GUIDE In Every Issue 33 NEUTRAL GROUND In Little Rock, Katie Rees of Katie Grace Designs builds a cozy home well suited to her family of six. 44 FARMHOUSE REIMAGINED Landscape designer Chris H. Olsen creates a rural retreat affectionately dubbed “Big O Farm” in Cabot. Home 7 19 25 17 9 13 6 64 30 59 25 44 CONTENTS 19 13

For

Publisher Kelly Fraiser (ext. 101) kelly@athomearkansas.com

Editor in Chief Stephanie Maxwell Newton (ext. 102) stephanie@athomearkansas.com

Art Director Bailey Dougan (ext. 106) bailey@athomearkansas.com

Online Editor

Laura LaRue (ext. 104) laura@athomearkansas.com

Advertising Art Manager Taylor Evans taylor@athomearkansas.com

Contributing Copy Editor Susan Darcey

Contributing Photographer Rett Peek

Contributing Writers Tiffany Adams, Jordan P. Hickey, and Rebekah Hall Scott

Account Manager

Laura Hilliard (ext. 105) lhilliard@athomearkansas.com

Marketing Specialist Celeste Novak (ext. 100) celeste@athomearkansas.com

Billing billing@athomearkansas.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Call 818.286.3115 or email subscribe@athomearkansas.com for customer service.

P.O. Box 15065 N. Hollywood, CA 91615-5065

ADVERTISING

For information about advertising in At Home in Arkansas, call 501.666.5510 or email kelly@athomearkansas.com

2207 Cottondale Lane Little Rock, AR 72202 501.666.5510

4 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
26 years, At Home in Arkansas has been the go-to publication for home, garden, and lifestyle inspiration across the state. Subscribe today and never miss an issue! 1 year (11 issues) for $15.95 2 years (22 issues) for $24.95 Scan here or visit athomearkansas.com/subscribe
FOR ALL THINGS HOME IN ARKANSAS.
THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE
S CANFOR OU R INSTAGRAM
OUTSIDE 501.454.9803 BETTERLAWNSAR.COM
SPEND MORE TIME

From the Editor

There are oh-somany reasons to fall in love with fall. For football fans and avid hunters, a chill in the air signals the return of their favorite sports. For families with young children, it’s all about pumpkin patches and costume parties. Personally, my favorite thing about the dip in temps is that I can comfortably enjoy my screened-in porch or take an evening walk around the neighborhood again. I miss the outdoors during those triple-digit days!

Another reason so many people call this their favorite season is the anticipation of gatherings with loved ones. True, it’s not quite time to trim the turkey or deck the halls, but most folks are already thinking ahead to those holiday get-togethers. Such occasions were top of mind when designers Chris H. Olsen and Katie Rees each set about to customize their homes. (Designers: They’re just like us!) Curious to have a peek inside? You’re in luck—this issue is At Home with the Pros, and you’re invited to step right in.

Happy fall, y’all!

Reader Responses

Your responses to Discover Fayetteville & Springdale from our August issue

“I love this, especially the way they recognized Terra Studios!”

— OLIVIA T., VIA FACEBOOK

“So grateful for each of these places and the people who create them.”

—SARAH L., VIA FACEBOOK

“Wonderful list and great photos!”

—NWA MAKERS GALLERY, VIA FACEBOOK

LatestLittle Rock designer Jayson Cain opened a second storefront in September. Located at 8206 Cantrell Road, this shop features contemporary, colorful furniture and décor mixed with traditional elements for a transitional twist on Jayson’s signature style. A few doors down at his original store, Jayson Cain Interiors , shoppers can still expect the antiques and luxury bedding they’ve grown to love in a refreshed setting. Follow Jayson on Instagram (@jaysoncainid) for updates on his new venture.

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, Twitter, and Pinterest (@athomearkansas).

Et Alia Press , an independent book press based in Little Rock, has put out a call looking for submissions for an upcoming title. The project, temporarily dubbed Grandparent Homes, is led by Des Arc native Adam Carl Smith , who has moved, renovated, and personalized his grandparents’ house into his own. The book is a collection of accounts from others who also live in the homes once occupied by their grandparents and the memories, stories, and feelings that experience evokes. Submissions close December 1. For information on submitting a home, visit etaliapress.com/grandparent-homes.

6 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 WELCOME
Photo by Rett Peek (portrait) and Bailey Dougan
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 7 PRODUCER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK UPDATE YOUR SPACE Style Clear Winners Decorative glass adds gallery-level sophistication to interior styling

PREVIOUS PAGE

James Hayes blown glass vase and vintage Murano glass bowl with gold flecks.

Curations Home, Little Rock 501.416.4951

Lilac swirled vase and small purple vase. Bear Hill Interiors, Little Rock BEARHILLINTERIORS.COM

Clear vase with lime interior. Cobblestone & Vine, Bentonville and Little Rock COBBLESTONEANDVINE.COM

1 Stacked crystal cube candle holder. Cobblestone & Vine, Bentonville and Little Rock COBBLESTONEANDVINE.COM

2 & 3 Vintage candy dish and blue glass object. Providence Design, Little Rock PROVIDENCELTDDESIGN.COM

4 Green glass bowl. Lighting Emporium, Springdale LIGHTINGEMPORIUM.COM

5 & 6 Gray bubble vase and lavender vase. Cantrell Furniture Design Center, Little Rock CANTRELLFURNITURE.COM

7 Crystal bookend (comes in set of 2). Kaufman By Design West, Little Rock KAUFMANLUMBER.COM

8 Vintage Murano glass bowl. Bear Hill Interiors, Little Rock BEARHILLINTERIORS.COM

9 Blown glass lamp. Sugartown Mercantile, Stuttgart SUGARTOWNMERCANTILE.COM

8 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
Photos by Rett Peek (1, 2, 3, and 8) and courtesy of vendors
STYLE SHOP 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Bedding Bests

Rest easy when you make your bed with luxe linens, cozy coverlets, and plush pillows from local boutiques

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 9
PRODUCER
STYLE DESIGN
“Arcadia” pillow in Sunset paired with the “Neo” cotton duvet set in Pumice from Ann Gish.

1 “India” sham with scalloped flange in an assortment of colors from Matouk. 2 Amity Home “Akin” tri-colored striped coverlet in Saddle, “Dalton” quilt in Natural, and “Dempsey” super throw in Asphalt. 3 The “Gouache” duvet cover is a contemporary canvas of colors from Signoria Firenze. 4 Sferra’s Estate collection brings an understated sophistication to your space; the collection comes in nine colors, including White/Lunar, shown here.

Local Retailers

AMITY HOME

Casey Sarkin Interior Design , caseysarkininteriordesign.com Cynthia East Fabrics , cynthiaeastfabrics.com

ANN GISH

Art of Design , shadavari.com Casey Sarkin Home , 479.530.0686

Cobblestone & Vine , cobblestoneandvine.com Curations Home , 501.416.4951 Fig Modern , figmodern.com

ANNIE SELKE

Casey Sarkin Home , 479.530.0686 Cobblestone & Vine , cobblestoneandvine. com Cynthia East Fabrics , cynthiaeastfabrics.com Debi Davis Interior Design , debidavisinteriordesign.com

DEA

Jayson Cain Interiors , jcaininteriors.com

10 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 STYLE DESIGN 1 2 3 4

MATOUK

Bear Hill Interiors, bearhillinteriors.com Cobblestone & Vine , cobblestoneandvine.com

ORCHIDS LUX HOME

Debi Davis Interior Design , debidavisinteriordesign.com Providence Design , providenceltddesign.com

SFERRA

Bear Hill Interiors, bearhillinteriors.com Jayson Cain Interiors , jcaininteriors.com

SIGNORIA FIRENZE

Jayson Cain Interiors , jcaininteriors.com

Please note that while we have listed local retailers for each of the items shown here, vendors may only have these pieces by special order. Additionally, many of these lines are available to the trade through your favorite local interior designer.

5 The “Monroe” dual-layer bed throw is a light-weight, 100% cotton blanket from Orchids Lux Home. 6 Dea’s “Colibrì” print features a whimsical hummingbird motif on sheets, quilts, duvets, shams, and pillows. 7 The “Draftsman” quilt from Annie Selke is inspired by traditional Indian kantha quilts. 8 Matouk’s “Duma Diamond” sham is printed on 500 thread count Luca Egyptian cotton percale in an assortment of colors.
STYLE DESIGN 5 7 8 6 October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 11
Antiques • Design • Bedding JAYSON CAIN INTERIORS 8202 Cantrell Rd. Little Rock, Arkansas • 8206 Cantrell Rd. Little Rock, Arkansas 501.904.5411 • @ jaysoncainid

Open shelving offers a place to display cherished objects. “I really like to collect vintage décor, and I have a lot of things from my great grandma,” Miah says. Alongside the custom hood, the floating shelves create the effect of a feature wall.

The Perfect Mix

In Conway, interior designer Miah Millan creates a fresh take on Mediterranean style in her kitchen and dining space

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 13
WRITER REBEKAH HALL SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON
STYLE REFRESH BEFORE

For Miah Millan, moving into her new home presented the opportunity to fill the space with character and charm. As an interior designer herself, she envisioned giving the 1980 Conway residence a “modern Mediterranean feel,” which is a nod to her husband’s culture. “Eduard is from Spain, and we’ve been lucky enough to get to travel there and experience the architecture and interior design,” Miah says. “I really fell in love with that style, so I wanted to bring that into our home and blend it with American style.”

Eduard helped bring Miah’s vision to life, contracting the project himself. First, they removed the wall separating the small kitchen and dining room to make one functional area. “Creating a flow between the two rooms was the main goal,” Miah says. “Having that open space for the lifestyle that we like to enjoy—being able to sit at the table and talk while someone is in the kitchen—was important to us.” The original kitchen was gutted, and the couple added a mix of open shelving and Shaker-style cabinetry painted sage green (“Honed Soapstone” by Sherwin-Williams). “I wanted the green cabinets to give it more of an earthy feel, and I definitely didn’t want to do an all-white kitchen,” Miah says.

White, gray, and organic wood tones keep the palette

fresh, while brushed brass hardware and a custom curved range hood—which the designer plastered herself—bring warmth and additional interest to the space. “We have lots of arches throughout the house, so I was trying to bring more of that curved shape into the kitchen to contrast with the very linear Shaker cabinets,” the designer says.

After settling into the space, Miah says she and Eduard are still enjoying its look and functionality more than ever. “I walk in there every day, and I just can’t believe it’s my kitchen,” she says. “It just has that classic feel to it, where I don’t think it’s going to go out of style anytime soon.”

14 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
STYLE REFRESH
BEFORE
“Honed Soapstone” Sherwin-Williams Removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room made both spaces appear larger, even though they occupy the same square footage as before the renovation.

1

BRASS BEAUTY

Brushed brass sconces highlight the open wood shelves and their displays. “The finish brings a warm tone that fits perfectly with the other natural elements,” Miah says. The style’s milk glass shade and retro-inspired shape reference the vintage elements illuminated below.

2

TIMELESS TEXTURE

An important part of the room’s Mediterranean inspiration is the custom range hood, which Miah applied herself. “We finished it with a plaster to give it this rough, very handmade-feeling texture,” she says.

3

ORGANICALLY INSPIRED

A skinny subway tile from Spain stacked vertically lends a contemporary feel to the space. Miah says the tile’s matte finish, vertical application, and subtle variations in hue create visual interest.

4

REFRESHED AND REFINED

For the countertops, Miah replaced yellow Formica with a white quartz and paired it with brushed brass hardware and fixtures, including a bridgestyle faucet from Kohler. The diamond-patterned windows, original to the house, give the space a cottage charm.

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 15 STYLE REFRESH
1 2 4 3
—Miah Millan, designer
“Now, when we do have family over, there’s space for everyone. It makes a big difference.”
Design Resources CONTRACTOR Eduard Millan, Uno Mas Contracting INTERIOR DESIGN Miah Millan, Miah Millan Interiors ACCESSORIES The Junktion Flea Market APPLIANCES, FIXTURES, AND FLOORING Miah Millan Interiors CABINETRY Quality Trim, Inc. COUNTERTOPS Conway Marble & Granite FURNITURE Miah Millan Interiors and SandersSaw Productions TILE ProSource of Little Rock
400 N. Magnolia St. | North Little Rock, AR 72114 pchdwe.com | sales@pchdwe.com | 501-224-1724
opened our doors in 1949. Our focus
is to
a quality product to
the quality of service we
We
then and now
bring our customers
match
provide.

The Fashion Files

Art prints, faux leather, and statement studs are the hottest looks for cooler weather

1 4

3 5

A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 17
Photos by Rett Peek (dresses) and courtesy
of vendors 6 2
French Connection “Crolenda” half-zip popover shirt, $118. Label, Bentonville, shopatlabel.com Emily McCarthy “Chloe” faux leather skirt, $268. Tulips, Little Rock, tulipsinlittlerock.com Marco Bicego “Lunaria” 18k gold earrings, $2,260. Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers, Fayetteville and Rogers, romancediamond.com Emily McCarthy “Stella” midi dress in Plaid Noir, $288. Fairley Fancy, Sheridan, fairleyfancy.com Oliphant “Bukhara” mock-neck maxi dress, $478. Tulips, Little Rock, tulipsinlittlerock.com Kate Spade New York “Sea Siren” statement chandelier earrings, $148. Dillard’s, statewide, dillards.com
18 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 Pleasant Valley Plaza | 11220 N. Rodney Parham, Suite 14 | 501.663.1818 | KenRashsArkansas | www.kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com Huge Inventory of Outdoor Furniture, Gas Logs, and Fire Pits available for Immediate Delivery! AUTUMN in ARKANSAS

SPRINGDALE’S LITTLE EATALY

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 19 MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME Life WRITER JORDAN P. HICKEY PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON
How the founders of Zelli Pasta became the go-to for fresh pasta and gourmet goods in Northwest Arkansas

n a recent Wednesday afternoon at Zelli Pasta in Springdale, a hard-working pasta extruder is pumping out a steady stream of casarecce into a shallow white plastic container. Mitchell Owen, who co-founded Zelli with his wife, Angelina Bowen, reaches into the container and fishes out a single piece. Rolling the ochre-colored pasta between two fingers, Mitchell notes that the texture is far different than normal grocery store pasta. “It's extruded out through bronze dies and being cut to size, so the bronze die is what's leaving the texture on the surface of the pasta," Mitchell says. “See, it's got these little ridges on it."

“I would say it almost looks like little spider webs all over the outside," Angelina says. “But that texture is gonna grab onto your sauce whenever you're making pasta."

There is no Italian nonna who imparted pasta-making expertise, no reclaimed Italian heritage driving the enterprise forward (Mitchell’s family roots are Welsh; Angelina’s are French, among others). Rather, what gave rise to everything within Zelli—which has been open just over a year now—was COVID. “A lot of mom-and-pop businesses were birthed out of the pandemic—and this was kind of the same story," Mitchell says. Early in the pandemic, the pair found themselves making pasta sometimes five times a week. That enthusiasm then sparked a conversation in which Mitchell said: “You know, I really wish I could just make pasta every day."

“I said, ‘Sure,’” Angelina says, “‘Let's make pasta every day.’” Which is how the couple ended up with a pasta extruder taking up the lion’s share of space on their kitchen island.

Although the initial plan had been to set up shop as a cottage-food business, Angelina and Mitchell quickly realized that this wasn’t going to be compatible with their two dogs—in no small part because the dogs acquired a taste for the pasta drying in their home office. In time, the couple heard about a commercial space on Emma Avenue in Springdale, just up the road from their home in east Fayetteville. It was perfect.

Since opening in July 2022, the couple says they’ve learned a fair amount that has helped shape the scope and trajectory of their business; you can’t churn out between 28,000 and 30,000 pounds of pasta over the course of a year and not learn a few lessons along the way. But they also learned that they needed to offer items beyond just pasta.

Along with Mitchell and Angelina’s pasta offerings, this is where Zelli the storefront truly shines. To examine the shelves is to feel like you’ve been transported to some distant Mediterranean clime. Shelves upon shelves of imported canned tomatoes bear brands you’re not likely to find anywhere else locally. Closer inspection of a rack of bright circus colors reveals a stunning selection of canned fish. A small refrigerated section punches well above its weight with French butters and Italian cheeses.

When asked how they’ve managed to curate such a remarkable selection of normally hard-to-find products, the couple explains it wasn't quite what you'd expect. There was

no schlepping across Europe, no chance meetings with familyrun producers in small Italian villages. All of that research and tasting was conducted from the comfort of their home, but it was transportive in the same way that pasta-making had been for them during the height of the pandemic. Angelina credits Instagram as a tool for sourcing products. “Once you start kind of getting in that rabbit hole, you see a lot of really good options,” she says. “We can read the ingredients and be able to tell what's gonna be good or not by the way it's made.”

Ultimately, this notion of finding the best ingredients they can get is at the heart of what drives the store: Everything is about simplicity. The best product is made from the best ingredients. Simple as that. Want to try your hand at making your own fresh pasta? Read on for Zelli’s instructions on preparing ravioli at home.

20 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
LIFE TASTE
O O
Angelina Bowen and Mitchell Owen, owners of Zelli Pasta

PURPLE SWEET POTATO RAVIOLI

PURPLE SWEET POTATO RAVIOLI WITH BROWN BUTTER SAUCE

RECIPE

Yields about 35 ravioli, or 4-5 servings

SHOP

For the pasta dough

400 grams (1.5 cups) organic durum semolina flour, plus extra for dusting

4-5 large eggs

For the filling

2 large purple sweet potatoes

1 package (16-ounce) of whole milk ricotta (Zelli recommends basket ricotta)

¼ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano (or Parmesan cheese), grated

1 lemon, zested and juiced salt, to taste

For the brown butter sauce

½ stick butter

¼ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

1-2 fresh sage leaves

1 tablespoon pasta water

kosher salt, to taste

Notes: This recipe calls for a pasta sheeter, which can be purchased at Zelli or any kitchen supply store. Use durum semolina flour rather than allpurpose flour for all steps, including dusting.

PREPARE

To make pasta dough, weigh out 400 grams (1.5 cups and a scant more) of durum semolina flour and place on a large, flat surface. Create a well, and crack eggs into the center of the well. Use a fork to gently whisk the eggs into a smooth mixture, gradually incorporating flour from the inner wall of the well into eggs. Once the flour and eggs are fully incorporated, use a bench scraper to scrape from the bottom of the dough. Knead dough for 6-10 minutes, rotating 90 degrees as you go. Dough ball is ready when it looks smooth and has a gentle bounce when poked on the top. Wrap completely in plastic and let rest at least 10 minutes (or up to one day, refrigerating if so).

To make the filling, bring a pot of salted water to boil while you peel and dice sweet potatoes. Boil sweet potato pieces until fork tender, then drain and mash through a ricer (or with a fork) into a large bowl. Combine the mashed potatoes with ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt to taste. (Mitchell and Angelina recommend starting with half the lemon juice, then adding more as desired.) Transfer filling to a piping bag and refrigerate until ready to fill ravioli.

LIFE TASTE
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 21

To make and fill the ravioli, cut dough ball in half and flatten with a rolling pin until thin enough to fit through the widest setting of a pasta sheeter (typically about ¼ inch thick). Begin to run the dough through the widest setting of the sheeter , gradually going through each setting until you reach the second to finest, and flouring the dough in between each setting to prevent pasta from sticking. Final product should be about 2 millimeters thick and 6-8 inches wide; Mitchell and Angelina recommend cutting the single long sheet into 18-inch lengths. (Repeat steps with second half of the dough ball.)

Lightly dust pasta sheet with flour and lay flat. Starting at one end, pipe filling down the center of the length of one pasta sheet , leaving about 2 inches between fillings; dollops should be about 1 inch wide and ½ inch tall. Then fold the bottom of the sheet over the piped filling, working down the length of the sheet, so that all filling is covered with dough. Try to make sure edges line up and there are no wrinkles.

Using your thumb and index finger on both hands, press down along the three

USE YOUR NOODLES

Zelli currently sells 14 dried pasta shapes, each boxed in bright yellow packaging designed by Angelina. In addition to their Springdale storefront and farmers markets around the region, Zelli can also be found at almost 30 retailers across the state. Angelina and Mitchell also offer a small batch of fresh, filled pastas—such as lasagna, ravioli, and tortellini—available for pre-order and walk-ins. Visit zellipasta.com to shop and find out more about their offerings.

sides of each dollop of filling, pushing out any air. Using a fluted rolling cutter (or pizza cutter), cut out each square ravioli , discarding pasta scraps. Place ravioli on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and dust with flour

To make the sauce and finish the ravioli, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Swirl butter occasionally to ensure even melting. Add sage. As butter melts, it will start to foam; when the color changes from a light golden to a deep, nutty brown (usually after 5-7 minutes), remove from heat immediately. Remove sage leaves, add pasta water, and swirl to form sauce. Meanwhile, place ravioli in boiling water, then drop the heat to medium-high. Ravioli are cooked through when they begin to float (usually 2-3 minutes).

Gently remove ravioli once fully cooked and add to brown butter sauce Toss or stir to coat evenly, then add Parmigiano-Reggiano and continue to combine. Add more pasta water if sauce becomes too thick. Plate and garnish with grated more Parmigiano-Reggiano, and serve immediately.

22 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 LIFE TASTE
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 23 1504 Rebsamen Park Road Little Rock • 501.280.3200 Tues - Sat • 10am - 5pm mertinsdykehome.com ROCK RECLINE SWIVEL GLIDE RELAX IN STYLE! When Quality Counts C.COUGILL ROOFING CO., INC. www.cougillroofing.com C.COUGILL ROOFING CO., INC. • 10301 RIVERVIEW CORPORATE DR. • MAUMELLE, AR • 501.812.9400 RESIDENTIAL •Tile •Slate •Asphalt Shingles •Wood Shake •Metal Roofs •Roof Maintenance COMMERCIAL •PVC Single Ply •Modified •Standing Seam Metal •Built-Up •Roof Maintenance Worth the Investment. Ser v ing the Little Rock Area for 2 8 Y ears.
24 At Home in Arkansas | April 2023
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 25
Discover the Delta Hit the pavement to explore the storied communities of this special region, where the roads are flat and roots run deep LIFE DISCOVER
WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER BAILEY DOUGAN A mural on the side of Meador Pharmacy in Dumas painted by artist Jason White and high school student Caleb Sterrett.

The ducks were there before the rice, Fara Foster explains. We’ve stumbled upon the answer to this chicken-or-the-egg type riddle while discussing Stuttgart, which is both her new home and her hometown; her family moved away following sixth grade, and she returned only recently. “To say I’m a little bit like a duck out of water is probably fitting,” she says with a laugh.

In her day-to-day as executive director of the Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie, Fara’s role is to help share the history of the region, dating all the way back to its pioneer beginnings. “The museum came out of an idea from our founder, Bennie Burkett,” she says. “She wanted to do something that preserved the history and the memories of the original prairie pioneers who came to this area sometime during the late 1870s to 1880s—her father being one of those people.” In addition to the museum’s 20,000 square feet dedicated to such subjects as waterfowl conservation, the advent of agricultural economy, and rice and soybean production, its artifacts also include outdoor structures. Visitors can tour a pioneer-era one-room schoolhouse and a reproduction church on the museum’s property, for example.

The museum tells stories that not only explain the city’s past but also help draw connections to the wider region; after all, Stuttgart is just one piece of the Grand Prairie, which itself is one of the five subregions of the Arkansas Delta. Many of the museum’s visitors, Fara says, seek out those narratives that connect the dots from one county to the next. “What I’ve noticed is that Saturdays are our daytripper days. We get folks from a two-hour radius from all over the state who hit up museums in a variety of different areas,” she says, listing the Arkansas Post in Gillett and the Plantation Agriculture Museum

in Scott as nearby examples. “It’s really cool that Arkansans get in their cars and drive to visit other areas’ museums. And they share their experiences with you.”

Lee Ann Hoskyn, chair of Stuttgart’s Advertising and Promotion Commission, echoes this sentiment. “I’m a daughter of the Delta, and Delta people aren’t afraid to travel,” she says. A Wabbaseka native, Lee Ann rattles off restaurants an hour away alongside those in town as some of her favorites. She’s a cheerleader for the city, encouraging all to come visit what the locals call “Sugartown.” “From Little Rock, it’s a great place to drive to for a day trip of shopping,” she says, noting that in addition to the boutiques along downtown’s Main Street, the Grand Prairie Farmers Market (open through October) is a favorite on Saturdays.

Running from Little Rock to Memphis, Interstate 40 bisects the Delta, forming a delineation between what's referred to as the Upper and Lower Delta—another rough attempt at defining a region by borders and markers. In reality, the Delta is a web of communities, and each has ties to its agricultural beginnings while looking forward to the future. For Fara and the Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie, that means finding ways to continue engaging current visitors, whose ideas have inspired some of the museum’s recent programming. “A lot of the seasonal exhibits have come out of input from our guests during our Coffee with the Curator presentations,” she says, referring to a monthly educational program at the museum. “Someone will mention something and it leads to research in that particular area. It’s really interesting, the things that come out of people coming in and sharing their stories.” Read on for more of our favorite ways to discover the Delta, from Stuttgart to Wilson and Lake Village.

26 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
LIFE DISCOVER
Inside the Prairie School (pictured at right), part of the Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie’s collection of outbuildings.

SHOP

Located in Stuttgart’s historic downtown, SUGARTOWN MERCANTILE (sugartownmercantile.com) has become a destination for a mix of local art, cheeky home décor, gourmet pantry goods, and even a curated selection of vintage finds. If shopping from afar, their website offers shipping. COKER HAMPTON DRUG COMPANY (cokerhampton.com) and BUERKLE DRUG & GIFTS (870.673.1311), also in Stuttgart, are Main Street mainstays that continue to thrive as the downtown area is revitalized. In the Upper Delta, BLYTHEVILLE BOOK COMPANY (blythevillebookcompany. com) is a reimagining of the town’s beloved The Bookstore in Blytheville. BBC offers a cheery atmosphere for perusing the shelves for your next favorite read—and vinyl records, too.

DINE

In Lake Village, RHODA’S FAMOUS TAMALES & PIES (870.265.3108) is known across the state and beyond for the late Rhoda Adams’s mouth-watering tamale and pie recipes. Drive north through McGehee and you can’t miss HOOTS BBQ (870.222.1234), where you'll want to fill up on pulled pork and chopped brisket. 420 & TURNROW COFFEE (870.946.0452) in DeWitt offers a menu of salads, sandwiches, tacos, and nachos with ingredients sourced from local farms. In Jonesboro, visit the outdoor food truck park HUNTINGTON SQUARE (huntingtonsquare.net) to choose from a variety of mobile cuisines, including pizza, Mexican, and smoothies.

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 27 LIFE DISCOVER
This page, clockwise from top left: Miller’s Mud Mill Pottery in Dumas. Hoots BBQ in McGehee. The clock outside Wilkerson’s Jewelers in Stuttgart. Gifts and home décor at Coker Hampton Drug Company in Stuttgart. The Blue Hawaiian, a hypnotizing cocktail served in the bar at Boyd Farmhouse Inn in DeWitt.

VISIT

Blues enthusiasts from all over the world flock to Helena every fall for the KING BISCUIT BLUES FESTIVAL ( kingbiscuitfestival.com), this year held October 4-7 with Grammy Award-nominated Tab Benoit and The Dirty Dozen Brass Band headlining. On October 14, Weiner plays host to the annual ARKANSAS RICE FESTIVAL (arkansasricefestival.com), which celebrates the role this crop has played in the area’s livelihood with a parade, contests, rice cook-off, and more. The Downtown Jonesboro Alliance presents JONESBORO FALL FEST (downtownjonesboro.com) on October 21 in Union Park. Here, shop vendor booths, eat at local food trucks, and enjoy crafts and live music, all in a family-friendly atmosphere. In Blytheville, the newly revamped RITZ CIVIC CENTER (ritzciviccenter.net) presents a line-up of special events and movie screenings, including a showing of cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show on Halloween night. For an educational experience, visit ROHWER JAPANESE AMERICAN RELOCATION CENTER (rohwer. astate.edu) in McGehee. This museum explores themes of both injustice and hope through the stories of the people who were incarcerated there during World War II.

STAY

For an overnight visit in the Upper Delta, book a room at THE LOUIS HOTEL (thelouishotel.com), Wilson’s new boutique hotel; be sure to grab a nightcap at Staple, its lobby bar. In nearby Jonesboro, INTERSECT 311-APART HOTEL (intersect311.com) offers a convenient stay right off downtown’s Main Street. For accommodations in duck country, head to BOYD FARMHOUSE INN (boydfarmhouseinn.com) in DeWitt, where amenities include complimentary breakfast and access to the restaurant and bar serving a menu of Southern favorites.

28 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 LIFE DISCOVER
Lodging at Boyd Farmhouse Inn in DeWitt. A cart of snacks at 420 & Turnrow Coffee in DeWitt. The front door (and goods, pictured below) at Sugartown Mercantile in Stuttgart.
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 29 ARTGROUPARKANSAS.COM 501.690.2193 PATRICIA WILKES Hours: Mon-Fri 10-5; Sat 10-4 • 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd Little Rock • 501-663-0460 • cynthiaeastfabrics.com Upholstery | Pillows | Drapery | Headboards | Wallpaper | Home Accessories WE DO IT ALL After BEFORE LittleRock,AR72205 9501BaptistHealthDrive Suite950,MedicalTowersII HOVERWITHYOURPHONE'S CAMERATOVISITOURWEBSITE (501)227-9556 1-800-390-3223 SURGEONCOSMETIC.COM PLASTICANDCOSMETICSURGERYCENTER NGLISH E TOMINIMIZETHEAPPEARANCEOF UNEVENSKINTEXTURE•HYPERPIGMENTATION•SUNSPOTS WITHCO2 LASERSKINRESURFACING UMMER S SLOUGHOFF ACTUALPATIENT

Say ‘yes’ to guests with entertaining essentials suited for the fall season

Calaisio

Patterned

30 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
rectangular casserole basket with stoneware roaster, $175. Tipton & Hurst, Little Rock TIPTONHURST.COM “Zelina” gold bar cart with hammered finish, $569.80. Kaufman By Design West, Little Rock KAUFMANLUMBER.COM Images courtesy of vendors porcelain bowls, $3.99-$16.99 each. Eggshells Kitchen Co., Little Rock EGGSHELLSKITCHENCOMPANY.COM Juliska "Forest Walk" pitcher, $185. Tipton & Hurst, Little Rock TIPTONHURST.COM 20k gold whiskey, scotch, bourbon, and rye lowball glasses, $15 each. Sugartown Mercantile, Stuttgart SUGARTOWNMERCANTILE.COM

Westlake Plumbing offers the best of both new construction and ongoing service

Westlake Plumbing has been providing central Arkansas clients with the best in construction plumbing for over 50 years. What makes your company stand out in the industry? When I began running the company 32 years ago, I realized if we could assemble a quality team, we could overcome many of the unfavorable experiences that clients had on their projects. Our speciality is designing custom piping systems, and we collaborate with designers, manufacturers, and vendors to achieve the latest in technology and fixture selection for the client’s home.

Tell us about your team. Our entire staff is our greatest asset. Each

project begins with our office team understanding specifications of a project and merging it with homeowner expectations. We then mobilize all the materials in advance to maximize our installation process. Our skilled plumbers and apprentices make every design come to life; they are the backbone of the experience, and I count them as some of the best in their craft.

What kind of services does your sister company provide? While Westlake Plumbing specializes in new construction and larger remodels, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is our service company that focuses on solutions for existing homes. Each of

our service plumbers are equipped to resolve any challenge that could arise, from locating leaks, unclogging sewers and drains, and providing camera work. This service naturally reinforces our commitment to serve our customers past the initial build.

Both companies are growing, with a second location opening in Maumelle this fall! What makes you excited about growing your business? Adding the Maumelle location will bring our vision closer to the Little Rock area. We hope to add more skilled team members to help enhance our ability to continue earning the confidence of our existing and future clients.

ADVERTISEMENT
Westlake Plumbing and Ben Franklin Plumbing owner Allen Westlake, pictured here Interior design by Katie Grace Designs.
Westlake Plumbing 501.843.6763 westlakeplumbing.com Ben Franklin Plumbing 501.843.1565 benfranklinplumbingGLR.com
Photos by Rett Peek
32 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 KATIEGRACEDESIGNS.COM KATIE@KATIEGRACEDESIGNS.COM @KATIEGRACEDESIGNS WE MAKE DREAM KITCHENS COME TRUE! 501-481-8117 | 26096 I-30, Bryant AR | CountertopWorldAR.com Let’s discuss your next project!

Neutral Ground

In Little Rock, designer Katie Rees creates a comfortable haven for her young family

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 33 AT HOME WITH THE PROS
WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON
Home

When you know, you know. After learning they were expecting their youngest son, Caleb, designer Katie Rees and her husband, John Aaron, knew a move was in their future; they also knew when they had found the perfect home for their growing family. “Our other house sold really fast, and all of a sudden we needed a place to live, but there was nothing on the market,” Katie says. A friend mentioned a house in the framing stage that could be a great fit for the Reeses. “We walked through it, and I was like, This is our house,” Katie says. With kids ranging in age from 14 to almost 2 years old, the layout seemed ideal for their family of six. Upstairs, two bedrooms and a shared playroom are a retreat for the older kids, while the ground floor houses the primary bedroom along with separate bedrooms for their two younger children. Working with builder

Chris Maris, who had initially started the project, Katie took the reins on decisions for flooring, paint colors, tile, lighting, and other finishes, opting for neutral hues throughout the design. “I love doing bolder stuff and can do pretty much any style for clients, but for my own house I just wanted it to feel soothing and like a retreat. I think these colors accomplish that,” she says, pointing to the palette that includes rich creams, light tans, and brighter whites.

During the build, Katie and John Aaron’s son Caleb was born with Down syndrome and medical complications. Today, he happily receives therapy and care at home in his bedroom. “His room was slated as an office on the plan, but the size was perfect for him and the equipment he uses for therapy,” Katie says. “As a believer, it’s like God knew what we needed. I really do look at this house and think it’s exactly where we are supposed to be.” AH

34 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
Katie and John Aaron with their children, from left: Sawyer, Brooklyn, Caleb, and Gracie.

FULL CIRCLE

For holidays and more formal dinners, the Reeses’ dining room can seat up to 10. A mix of white and wood continues in the space, where a custom table built by Turner Custom Millwork is paired with upholstered chairs from the couple’s previous residence. “I think it’s a fact that dinners last longer when you have a circular table,” Katie says with a laugh. The table’s finish is echoed in a stain treatment on the built-out oak ceiling.

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 35

ISLAND DINING

When Katie took over the home’s plans, she redrew the cabinetry scheme to include a massive 14-foot island that can accommodate her entire family. “I can seat all my people and their friends here,” she says. “I can also have eyes on everyone in all the adjoining rooms.”

Tracy Rivers of AF Decorative finished the island base with a paint treatment that mimics the finish on the floors, adding to the warmth and continuity found throughout the spaces.

36 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 37
“Swiss Coffee” Benjamin Moore
“I really do look at this house and think it’s exactly where we are supposed to be.”
38 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
—Katie Rees, designer

COHESIVE FLOW

Although she had worked with numerous clients on open-concept floor plans, Katie had not lived in one herself. “I’ve loved it for our phase of life—and I’d definitely pick it again— but this style of home is trickier to decorate,” she says. To this point, she chose one neutral color (“Swiss Coffee” by Benjamin Moore) for the walls in all the connecting spaces, including the living room, kitchen, hearth room, and dining room. “When you walk in you see everything, so I wanted to make sure nothing was too busy and everything was cohesive, soft, and soothing,” she adds. A mix of shapes and textures, as well as pieces by local artist Lori DeYmaz flanking the fireplace, bring interest to the large living space.

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 39

BLUSH BEAUTY

“Brooklyn was actually one of the only kids who got a new room,” Katie says of her 12-year-old daughter’s space. Not having refreshed her space since the little girl days, Katie sought to create a bedroom Brooklyn could grow into and still be excited about when she is 16. Pink accents were a musthave but otherwise, mom was given free reign to come up with a dreamy space.

40 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023

NATURE-INSPIRED NURSERY

“We gave Caleb the biggest room, because he has the biggest need—and really uses all the space,” Katie says, noting he takes physical therapy on the floor and has storage space for medical equipment. Katie made the large room feel warm and welcoming by layering grasscloth and beadboard on the walls. While Caleb sleeps in his crib across the room, the daybed offers a place for snuggles and for big sister, Gracie, to occasionally sneak in and stay with her best friend. A grid of framed vintage bird prints, all pulled from a book that belonged to Katie’s grandmother, are a special, personalized touch.

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 41

AWAY FROM THE DAY

Katie and John Aaron had lived with a mix of bedroom furniture since they married in 2018. “I had not done a bedroom for us, and I was determined to do it in this house,” she says. “I wanted us to have a soothing room to go to at the end of the day.” Finding serenity in neutrals and rich textures, she deftly wove them together to create a room that is as cozy as it is refined. The artwork over the bed is by Little Rock artist Heike Talbert. Seated in one of their comfortable swivel chairs is Willow, the family’s cavapoo.

42 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023

NATURALLY LIGHT

Having never remodeled one of her home’s baths, Katie admits “this is the first time I’ve actually liked a bath I owned.” Varied textures and shapes give visual interest, while pieces like the standalone tub are as practical (especially for the younger kids’ bath times!) as they are pretty.

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 43
Design Resources
BUILDER
Chris Maris, Chris Maris Custom Homes & Remodeling INTERIOR DESIGN Katie Rees, Katie Grace Designs ACCESSORIES, BEDDING, FABRICS, FURNITURE, LIGHTING, RUGS, AND WALLPAPER Katie Grace Designs APPLIANCES Metro Appliances & More ART Lori DeYmaz, Lindsey Meyer, Tanya Sweetin, and Heike Talbert CABINETRY AND HARDWARE Duke Custom
Cabinets COUNTERTOPS
Countertop World FIXTURES Westlake Plumbing MILLWORK Hall Custom Millwork MIRRORS Jones Glass and Katie Grace Designs PAINT Benjamin Moore PAINTING (DECORATIVE)
AF Decorative
TILE
C
& F Flooring and Rug Gallery WINDOWS Pella WINDOW COVERINGS Bass Shutters & Shades and Katie Grace Designs

Farmhouse

The living room fireplace surround uses the same fieldstone seen on the exterior of the home but with tailored rather than organic shapes. An olive green down sofa is a favorite napping spot, while an antique lamp and clock mix with pieces from Botanica Gardens.

Reimagined

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 45
WRITER TIFFANY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON Chris H. Olsen on the front porch of his Cabot retreat. Chris H. Olsen turns a Cabot property into a picturesque escape just minutes from the Little Rock metro

ROOM AT THE TABLE

A blend of textures creates a warm, cohesive environment in the dining room. The newly vaulted ceiling is outfitted with tongueand-groove boards that add character and pair with the 12-inch pine plank flooring. The table, which has a reclaimed boiler as its base, seats 10 comfortably. A contemporary chandelier and sconces give a polished balance to the design.

46 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023

PORCH TIME

Chris designed the screened porch with three sets of French doors that connect to the living room, allowing it to function as an extension of the home and gathering place during parties. “I love to have my doors open and not worry about the bugs,” he says of the concept. Searching for “just the right blue,” Chris painted the ceiling three times before landing on a custom hue that plays well with the stone floor and industrial furnishings.

call it my lake house without the lake,” Chris H. Olsen says of his farm retreat on the outskirts of Lonoke County. Wanting a place where he could get away from his day-to-day duties in the Little Rock metro but still be available in less than an hour’s drive, he purchased this property in 2020. “The goal was to be in the country but close to Edgemont,” Chris says, referencing his primary residence that doubles as an event venue in North Little Rock.

As luck would have it, friend Byron McKimmey of McKimmey Associates, Realtors had recently purchased approximately 300 rural acres and was happy to parcel a rather generous lot to Chris. “The thing that sold me was it had everything: woods, hay fields, a beautiful pond, a barn, and a house that was very redeemable. It

had good bones,” Chris says.

After purchasing the property, he set out to make it his own— the circa 1950s house in particular. As the owner of Botanica Gardens and Plantopia, many people know Chris’s work as a landscape designer. However, he also has a passion for interiors, which he put on full display in the residence. “My goal was not to make it a Pottery Barn farmhouse. It’s very much a mix,” he says. To this point, eye-catching architectural features—from the wooden tongue-and-groove ceilings to a herringbone wall treatment in the bath—carry throughout the home. Favorite market finds, vintage artwork, and storied collectibles are layered on top, giving the feel that the home has evolved over time—and will continue to do so. “We call it The Big O Farm, and I want it to be a legacy that I leave for my family,” Chris says. AH

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 47
“I

GREEN LIVING

Inspired by a kitchen seen in the movie The Shack , Chris opted for green beadboard cabinetry. Friend and designer Scott Paterek of Massimo Interiors worked with him to maximize the layout, prioritizing a large island for both work and gathering. “We actually redrew the plans after finding the antique display cabinet,” Scott says, pointing to a piece that houses numerous collectibles. “When we saw it, I knew it was a great piece that would give a look that was unexpected and not so built-in,” he adds. A simple, stained-glass window over the range brings charm and plays well with the room’s gold accents, which include a farmhouse sink.

48 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
“I love bookshelves,” Chris says, “so I did them floor-to-ceiling here.” A mix of original ceramics and pieces found at market fills the nooks.

Reallocating square footage from what was previously a guest bedroom allowed Chris to expand the primary bedroom and closet. Windows that were removed in other areas of the home were reused here, offering a view of the barn from the bedroom. A framed cartoon he found at an estate sale in Little Rock’s historic Quapaw Quarter hangs over the bed. “It’s a little guy sitting on a fence—just like the one on the property here—looking out at the landscape; It’s me!” he says of the now personal piece.

OPENING UP

Design Resources

SOAKING SPACE

A laundry and mudroom that previously adjoined the primary bedroom was relocated to extend the bath into the space where the vanities are seen. Wallpaper with a cornstalk motif reflects the rural setting while pre-stained lumber laid in a herringbone pattern gives the walls character without feeling too “basic farmhouse,” Chris says. The hammered copper tub and Carrera marble floors bring a timeless sense of refinement to the space. Wanting to bring dimension to the outline of the walls, Chris specified 12-inch baseboards that are two inches thick, a subtle yet defining feature seen throughout the home.

50 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
INTERIOR AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN Chris H. Olsen, Botanica Gardens KITCHEN DESIGN Scott Paterek, Massimo Interiors APPLIANCES Metro Appliances & More CABINETS Renaissance Custom Cabinets COUNTERTOPS Triton Stone Group DOORS AND WINDOWS Kaufman Lumber FURNITURE Arkansas Peddlers Antique Mall, Botanica Gardens, Jenifer’s Antiques, and Moxy Modern Mercantile MIRRORS West Little Rock Glass PAINT Sherwin-Williams
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 51 Little Rock: 2220 Cantrell Rd. 501-664-0355 Fayetteville: 34 E. Center St., Ste. 1 479-409-7676 massimointeriordesign.com before REDEFINING INDOOR + OUTDOOR LIVING BOTANICAGARDENS.COM | CHRISHOLSEN.COM | PLANTOPIANLR.COM 501.614.3000 | 1601 REBSAMEN PARK RD. LR, AR 72202 ARKANSAS PREMIER LANDSCAPE COMPANY DESIGN BY CHRIS H. OLSEN FULL LANDSCAPING SERVICES
52 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 10 Clearwater Dr. 10 Clearwater Dr. Little Rock, AR 72204 Rock, 72204 Visit our Little Rock Showroom: Visit our Rock Showroom: S L A B S . T I L E . S I N K S . S A B S . T I L E . S I N K S . Rennie combines her extensive knowledge of the Little Rock area and her strong work ethic to provide her clients with a seamless, streamlined real estate experience. Thinking about buying or selling a home? Call Rennie today! 501.256.4984 rennie@jonunderhill.com jonunderhill.com RENNIE JENKINS

A Feeling of Peace

When Dr. Brad and Rennie Jenkins were looking to relocate from Maumelle several years ago, there were a few must-haves on the list as they shopped for a new home: First, they wanted to be closer to their children's schools in Little Rock. Second, they needed enough space for their large family of seven to be comfortable; even with kids eventually moving out for college, the couple wanted rooms for everyone when they came home for holidays. Lastly, Rennie envisioned a home with interiors that would inspire peace and calm.

The Jenkinses worked for years with friend and Realtor Brandy Harp before finding this gem in west Little Rock. “As soon as I set foot in the house, I could see it—I could see light colors, peace, and tranquility,” Rennie says, describing how she looked past the dark wood trim and black accent colors to envision her future home as it is now.

Though she had an idea of the mood she wanted the home to convey, Rennie desired the help of professionals and turned to several industry friends to help bring her vision to life. “While

looking at homes with Brandy, we walked into this one house where I said, ‘This is not the house, but I love the exact way it’s decorated. Tell me who the designer is and I want her phone number,’” she recalls. That designer was Amber Doggett of Vivid Designs; she helped Rennie pick out furniture, fabrics, lighting, and finishes using a palette of neutral hues accented with blue and gold to reflect a sense of serenity. She also introduced a quatrefoil motif, a pattern that reappears in subtle ways throughout the design. “I wanted every room to connect to the next room, and that’s part of what we did with the repeating patterns,” Rennie says.

Outside her work as a Realtor for Jon Underhill Real Estate and his as a doctor (working both at Baptist Health Family Clinic–Lakewood and as director of the emergency department at Baptist Health Medical Center–North Little Rock), Rennie and Brad both strive to find ways to give back to their community. One such opportunity is through Home for Healing, a nonprofit organization that provides no-cost lodging for cancer patients

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 53 SPONSORED CONTENT
A passion for peaceful living inspires both the personal home and community efforts of Dr. Brad and Rennie Jenkins, chairs of Home for Healing’s 2023 Monster Bash
Photos by Christa Masters

and their caregivers (along with others in need, such as those with loved ones in the ICU or NICU). Just as she values tranquility in her own home, Rennie believes there’s a healing property to having a comfortable, inviting place to lay your head—all free of charge—while undergoing a stressful experience. “It’s a restorative environment, and it just gives the people some sort of peace while they’re going through something horrible,” she says. “I just love what it stands for.”

This year, Brad and Rennie are proud to be chairing the organization’s largest fundraiser, Monster Bash. Held every year on the last weekend of October, the event is a Halloweenthemed soirée attracting upwards of 600 guests and boasting food from 10 local restaurants, music from Tragikly White, and

a costume contest that Rennie says can get quite competitive. “It’s the funnest party we go to all year,” she says. “Because everyone’s not in a suit and tie, they let their hair down, they dance.”

In 2022, the event sold out and raised $215,000 for Home for Healing. This year, the organization’s 20th anniversary, the goal is $250,000—every bit of which will go toward the efforts of Home for Healing. “Because of what Brad does, he sees firsthand the trauma these families go through,” Rennie says. “You can only do so much as a medical professional to help them, but this is something that anybody can do that makes such a big difference.”

Monster Bash is October 27 at The Venue at Westwind. Visit homeforhealing.org for tickets and more information.

54 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
SPONSORED CONTENT
Rennie and Brad’s living room provides a view to the home’s spacious backyard and pool. The music room is a favorite hang-out for Rennie, who plays piano, and Brad, who plays guitar. The wall and a trio of panels were painted by AF Decorative. A diamond-patterned backsplash and gold chandelier bring transitional style to the kitchen, where upholstered barstools invite friends and family to linger.
October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 55
BUILDER
PAINTING (DECORATIVE)
Decorative SPONSORED CONTENT
Design Resources
Richard Harp, Richard Harp Homes INTERIOR DESIGN Amber Doggett, Vivid Designs and Robbie Cash, R. Cash Designs ART AF Decorative, Lori DeYmaz, and Jessica Henley COUNTERTOPS AND FIREPLACE SURROUNDS A1 Granite Man FABRICS, FURNITURE, LIGHTING, AND WINDOW COVERINGS
Vivid Designs
AF
—Rennie Jenkins, homeowner
A neutral palette and gold accents connect the dining room to adjoining
In the bedroom, the home’s
“As soon as I set foot in the house, I could see it—I could see light colors, peace, and tranquility.”
spaces.
hallmark quatrefoil shape appears in the carpet and lamps.

COURAGE We see your

COURAGE

At Baptist Health, we see you.

We see your struggles. We see your victories. We see your sacrifice. And we’re honored to support you at every stage.

This October, for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Baptist Health wants to remind all women over the age of 40 to schedule their yearly mammograms.

Regular mammograms are critical in ensuring breast cancer is caught early—and earlly detection is vital. This screening could be your most important appointment this year to ensure your health.

Baptist Health’s Breast Centers, clinics and hospitals are committed to providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere for your exam. We offer a comprehensive program of services and specialties for breast health, including:

• Mammogram

• Breast Ultrasound

• Stereotactic Core Biopsy

• Ultrasound Core Biopsy

• Lumpectomy & Mastectomy

• Chemotherapy

• Invenia ABUS 2.0 for Dense Breasts

To schedule your mammogram, call 1-888-BAPTIST (227-8478) or visit BaptistHealthMammo.com

58 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 THE VENUE AT WESTWIND PRESENTED BY LEARN MORE Friday October 27 MONSTROUS MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT BY TRAGIKLY WHITE, DEVILISH DRINKS AND MORE! DON'T MISS LITTLE ROCK'S BIGGEST HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY BENEFITING HOME FOR HEALING LR EVENT CO-CHAIRS DR BRAD & RENNIE JENKINS BENEFITING WEST LITTLE ROCK GLASS LLC. 1903 Hinson Loop Rd. • Little Rock • 501-223-3034 @amberdoggettvividdesigns | 870.866.1523

Best in Health & Wellness

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 59 2023
THE WELLNESS GUIDE

Natural looking results with: Botox Dysport Fillers

Laser Rejuvenation BBL

HALO Skin Tyte

Diamond Glow Hydro Facial Medical Weight Loss

Vitamin Injections

Metabolic Health

60 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023
Lifestyle Medicine is pleased to offer the NEWEST GENERATION of FDA approved WEIGHT LOSS MEDICATION.
WEEKLY INJECTION
Twice as effective as other medication for weight loss. • Half of the patients lost 15% of their body weight. • One third lost 20% of their body weight.
Marina
ONCE
Marinalifestylemedicine.com 108 N Shackleford Rd. #102 | Little Rock | 501. 204.3111 | @marinalifestylemedicine
Marina Ivanovsky APRN Founder of Marina Lifestyle Medicine and Holistic Aesthetics.
blood
Decreases visceral fat
insulin
How it works: • Reduces appetite • Improves control of eating • Reduces food cravings • Improves
pressure/cholesterol •
• Decreases inflammation • Improves
sensitivity

Meaning Well

Meeting health and wellness goals can be a tricky equation to work out. Read on for reminders to keep your body performing at its peak

60+ million

Number of women in the United States living with some form of heart disease, according to the CDC. Many people do not know that heart disease—including coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and heart failure—is the leading cause of death in American women. Talk to a doctor about your risk factors, especially if you have high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease. 40

150

Age at which most people should schedule their first mammogram. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so start a conversation today with your primary care physician about your family’s medical history and remember to do monthly self exams, too.

5 Keys to a Healthy Plate 1 2 3 4 5

Recommended minutes of moderateintensity activity per week for all adults, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Examples of activities that will get your heart pumping are brisk walking, water aerobics, gardening, and cycling at a leisurely pace. Combine these activities with stretching, strengthening exercises, and more vigorous activities (such as jogging, hiking, swimming, or tennis) for maximum health benefits.

Ways to Improve Memory Health 7

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Do some sort of physical activity every day, even if it’s using the stairs instead of an elevator, or taking a 10-minute walk after work.

Stimulate your mind through activities like reading, doing puzzles, or knitting.

Spend time with others, either through social interaction or volunteer work.

Stay organized—both on paper and mentally. Keep a calendar or to-do lists, and limit distractions so you’re not trying to do too many things at once.

Get enough sleep, meaning at least 7-9 hours a night.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet, and limit alcohol, which may lead to memory loss.

Stay on top of medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and obesity. Talk to your doctor about how any medications you take to manage these conditions may affect memory.

Half of your plate should be fruit and vegetables—the more color and variety, the better! While vegetables provide many of your daily nutrients, fruits are a healthy way to get your sugar fix, and some have the added benefit of anti-inflammatory properties.

Fill a quarter of your plate with lean proteins such as fish, poultry, beans, and nuts. Limit red meat and cheese, as well as bacon, cold cuts, and other processed meats.

The final fourth of your plate should be devoted to a variety of whole grains , such as whole-wheat bread and brown rice. Try to avoid refined grains, like white bread, pizza dough, pasta, and pastries, which have less nutritional value and can cause spikes in blood sugar.

Fats play an important role in nutrient absorption, cell growth, and helping you feel full, which makes them an important part of your diet. Use plant-derived oils , including olive oil and canola oil, rather than seed oils for cooking and in salad dressings.

Finally, turn to water as your main source of hydration. Limit dairy, juice, alcohol, sodas, and other sugary drinks, and you’ll see the benefits of H₂O reflected in everything from your skin to digestion and joint health.

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 61 THE WELLNESS GUIDE
Sources: cdc.gov, heart.org, hsph.harvard.edu, and mayoclinic.org
62 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 THE WELLNESS GUIDE Dr. Kaylin Cesarski NOW OPEN ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Little Rock and North Little Rock www.advancedfci.com 501-900-8763 The Best Surgeons. The Best Treatment. All Focused On You. Our skilled physicians are committed to the care, improvement and quality of human life. We provide state-of-the-art, comprehensive musculoskeletal care in a compassionate manner — greatly improving quality of life for our patients. Our emphasis on patient education and rehabilitation helps motivate, encourage and support patients and their families before, during and after surgery. BOWENHEFLEYORTHO.COM | 800-336-2412 Arthroscopic & Reconstructive Surgery of the Hip, Knee, & Shoulder W. Scott Bowen, M.D. William F. Hefley, Jr., M.D. Jason G. Stewart, M.D. Samuel A. Moore, D.O. Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery David M. Rhodes, M.D. Jesse D. Abeler, D.O. Foot & Ankle Surgery Jesse B. Burks, D.P.M. General Orthopedics/Foot & Ankle Surgery Larry L. Nguyen, M.D. Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery Paul K. Edwards, M.D.

2023

Best in Health & Wellness

Whether you’re seeking medical attention or desire more aesthetic treatments, call on these Arkansas professionals to keep you feeling your best

Baptist Health

As the state’s largest and most comprehensive nonprofit health care organization, Baptist Health addresses a range of medical needs in clinical and hospital settings—including heart health, orthopedics, back and spine issues, women’s health, weight loss, and cancer.

Locations Statewide | 888.227.8478 | baptist-health.com

Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

With a focus on patient care, education, and rehabilitation, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics strives to help patients achieve pain-free mobility. Offering everything from physical therapy to surgery, their specialists can help you navigate all your options.

Locations Statewide | 501.663.6455 | bowenhefleyortho.com

English Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Center

Dr. Jim English and his staff offer services ranging from deep laser treatments and injectables to complete cosmetic surgery—all to help you look and feel your best. Non-surgical treatments include facials, microneedling, permanent cosmetics, and more.

Little Rock | 501.227.9556 | surgeoncosmetic.com

Marina Lifestyle Medicine & Holistic Aesthetic

Whether you want to address medical concerns or cosmetic features, Marina Ivanovsky, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, approaches each appointment holistically, customizing a solution for every client. Among her services are testing and lab work, IV therapy, nutrition and cooking classes, skincare products, and injectables.

Little Rock | 501.204.3111 | marinalifestylemedicine.com

Pain Treatment Centers of America

The caring team at PTCOA, which has clinics and surgery centers around the state, wants to help patients overcome chronic pain and be in control of their lives. Call them to relieve pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, and numerous other conditions.

Locations Statewide | 844.215.0731 | ptcoa.com

October 2023 | athomearkansas.com 63
THE WELLNESS GUIDE
GET IT SLIP IT CUFF IT CHECK IT Check it every day. Self-monitoring is power. In partnership with HHS Office of Minority Health and Health Resources and Services Administration under cooperative agreements CPIMP211227 and CPIMP211228. Or scan code for more. Visit: ManageYourBP.org 1 2 4 3

Sheila Cotton

A field of Mississippi snow rises to meet the dusky horizon in Sheila Cotton’s “Moon in Libra.” The moon is low, casting a hazy glow over the cotton and a nearby shed, whose rusty tin roof signifies it’s seen many a harvest season. The piece represents a slice of rural South, a subject matter Sheila has returned to time and time again since moving back to the Natural State 13 years ago. “You’ve got to leave the South to kind of get it,” she says, describing years spent in Canada and then South Florida. “All those other experiences compounded, and I feel I can relate to both kinds of people—those who have left and come back, and those who have never left.”

While her previous bodies of work have focused on the human figure and landscapes from her time in Florida, the decade-plus she’s been back in Arkansas has found the artist turning toward scenes like the one pictured here, which

is based on a field in Eudora. “Here, both in Arkansas and this time in history, modern life is so much retail and traffic, it pushes you out into what I’m going to call ‘the country’ to find beauty,” Sheila says. Details such as scarecrows and small town water towers have all drawn her attention—and her camera lens, as she snaps reference photos for future early morning painting sessions. “I like my turpentine with coffee,” she says.

Sheila’s paintings have become known for their agrarian settings, though she finds herself exploring more suburban interests currently; her most recent work is a series of swimming pools. “I just paint what I love,” she says.

“Usually it is some old artifact in a field or the little odd corners, sort of old Southern genteel artifacts. You have to paint what you love. Otherwise, why bother?” Sheila’s work is available at sheilacottonart.com.

64 At Home in Arkansas | October 2023 END NOTES STATE OF INSPIRATION
“Moon in Libra” by Sheila Cotton 24” x 36” oil on canvas Written by Stephanie Maxwell Newton. Photos courtesy of Sheila Cotton.
ACTUALPATIENT Imageshavenotbeenretouched. PLASTICANDCOSMETICSURGERYCENTER NGLISH E After Suite950,MedicalTowersII|9501BaptistHealthDrive|LittleRock,AR72205| SURGEONCOSMETIC.COM ToscheduleyourpersonalizedconsultationwithDr.English,callusat 501.227.9556 IT'SYOURLIFE.LIVEBEAUTIFULLY. OU.YY BEAUTIFUL. TIMELESS. YOUNG.
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.