SLHL November/December 2023 by St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles

St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles® The Holiday Issue

Warmth & Wonder

v 28

November/December 2023 stlouishomesmag.com Display until December 2023

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CONTENTS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 THE HOLIDAY ISSUE

20 FEATURES 20. FRESHLY FESTIVE

Homeowner calls upon trusted design firm to envision a refined aesthetic in celebration of the season.

28. FRESH, FUN CHRISTMAS IN A RENEWED SPACE

Creve Coeur couple trades empty nest for heart full of innovative winter interior design.

36. CREATING CHRISTMAS MAGIC A St. Louis couple collaborated with their designer of nearly two decades to create the picture-perfect holiday home for their favorite charity and their family’s favorite time of year.

DEPARTMENTS 4 8 10 14 16 46 48

Publisher’s letter Fab Finds Trends The Insider Artisian Snapshot The Dirt

52 54 58 60 68 72

Shaws Vision Bright Idea Spotlight Snapshot Connect Classic or Craze

On the cover page 20. A fun room calls for whimsical holiday décor, and the mini bottlebrush trees in a myriad of colors fit the bill. Photography by Anne Matheis.

St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles (ISSN 1524-8755) Vol. 28, No. 9, November/December ©2023 by Distinctive Lifestyles, LLC. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpts granted by written request only. St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles is published nine times a year, monthly in MARCH, APRIL, MAY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER and OCTOBER, and bi-monthly in JANUARY/FEBRUARY, JUNE/JULY and NOVEMBER/DECEMBER by Distinctive Lifestyles, LLC, 255 Lamp & Lantern Village, Town & Country, MO 63017, (636) 230-9700. Periodicals postage paid at Chesterfield, MO 63017 and additional mailing offices.

slhl HELLO

Sometimes a poem says it best.

In a failed attempt to stop Christmas, a cranky and hateful cat-like creature steals all the Christmas decorations, meals and gifts from the fictional citizens of Whoville on Christmas Eve and finds out quickly that Christmas is about love and belonging, not just gifts under the tree!

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” by Dr. Suess …So he paused. And the Grinch put his hand to his ear. And he did hear a sound rising over the snow. It started in low. Then it started to grow. But the sound wasn't sad! Why, this sound sounded merry! It couldn't be so! But it WAS merry! VERY! He stared down at Whoville! The Grinch popped his eyes! Then he shook! What he saw was a shocking surprise! Every Who down in Whoville, the tall and the small, Was singing! Without any presents at all! He HADN'T stopped Christmas from coming! IT CAME! Somehow or other, it came just the same! And the Grinch, with his grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow, Stood puzzling and puzzling: "How could it be so?" "It came with out ribbons! It came without tags!" "It came without packages, boxes or bags!" And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before! "Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store." "Maybe Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!”…

Suzie Osterloh Publisher/Owner

4 NOV/DEC 2023 STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM

Photography by Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton.

Come celebrate the season with us at our annual Holiday Tabletop Tour on Saturday, November 4, and then again at the annual Deck the Halls of Glennon Homes Christmas Tour on Saturday, December 9. Plus start a new holiday tradition by partaking in the annual CWE Window Walk throughout the month of December!

A LASTING

First Impression

CUSTOM ENTRY DOORS Design • Build • Install

137 Chesterfield Industrial Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63005 636-530-7545 scobiscompany.com

After

Before

Upcoming Events 11.04.23

HOLIDAY TABLE TOP TOUR

12.09.23

DECK THE HALLS

PUBLISHER/OWNER: Suzie Osterloh EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Melissa Mauzy MANAGING EDITOR: Maya Brenningmeyer CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Kim Dillon COPY EDITOR: Carol Wayne CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Lucyanne Boston, Julie Brown Patton, Jeanne Delathouder, Kim Hill, Michelle Mastro, Wendy Noory, Gina Parsons, Catherine Martin CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Liz Arnold, Linly Designs, Anne Matheis, Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton, Al Shirado, Claudia Casbarian, Nicole Pereira SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Colleen Poelker DISTRIBUTION MASTER: Barney Osterloh MARKETING + SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST: Zoe Miller ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: sosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com EDITORIAL INQUIRIES: maya@stlouishomesmag.com FOR SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: Email bosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com or visit www.stlouishomesmag.com St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles Magazine 255 Lamp + Lantern Village Town & Country, MO 63017 636-230-9700 www.stlouishomesmag.com ©2023 by Distinctive Lifestyles LLC. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpts granted by written request only. Printed in U.S.A.

Missouri/Southern Illinois Chapter

PRESIDENT: Suzie Osterloh VICE PRESIDENT: Barney Osterloh St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles is a publication of Distinctive Lifestyles LLC

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO REGISTER

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6 NOV/DEC 2023 STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM

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WEBSITE: stlouishomesmag.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/stlhomesmag INSTAGRAM: @stlhomesmag

Holiday Tabletop Tour, Saturday, Nov. 4

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SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Nine fabulous issues/year Only $15 Send check with name, address and phone number to: St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles 255 Lamp & Lantern Village Town and Country, MO 63017. Or email Barney at bosterloh@stlouishomesmag.com To subscribe online visit stlouishomesmag.com.

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slhl FAB FINDS

Just chill

A drink bucket is your best party trick for easy entertaining this holiday season. Fill the bucket with ice and stock your beverages of choice so guests can easily serve themselves a cold one leaving more time for you to enjoy the party. By Melissa Mauzy

Bleecker stainless steel party bucket, available at Pottery Barn.

Ivy & Oak bucket, available at Mary Tuttle's Woodland ice bucket, available at The Gifted Gardener.

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15” silver and bamboo oval ice bucket, available at Story Seven.

Tartan ice bucket, by Mud Pie, available at Story Seven.

Hand-woven rattan ice bucket, available at The Abbey.

Lucite bucket with tongs, available at The Gifted Gardener.

Artisan ice bucket, available at Donnelly Designs.

Leland rattan beverage tub, available at Crate and Barrel.

Pink leopard ice bucket, by Dana Gibson, available at The Rusted Chandelier.

Julia Berolzheimer Lily party bucket, available at Pottery Barn.

Dickinson wine cooler, available at Three French Hens.

Famille rose champagne bucket, available at Williams-Sonoma.

Stainless steel beverage bucket, available at Williams-Sonoma.

San Ramon ice bucket, available at Hearth & Soul. STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

slhl TRENDS

It Takes a Make your house a home with one-of-a-kind CHRISTMAS VILLAGE sets and accessories. By Maya Brenningmeyer

Gingerbread village houses, available at Pottery Barn

White ceramic holiday canal houses, available at Crate & Barrel. Christmas collectible house, A-Frame, available at Grandin Road.

Christmas collectible house, camper, available at Grandin Road.

10 NOV/DEC 2023 STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM

Emily Taylor for George & Viv Light-Up Holiday Village, Knit Shop, available at Anthropologie.

Light-up glitter snow village, available at The White Hare.

Iced lighted gingerbread village, available at Blue Dahlia Designs.

Christmas collectible house, cabin, available at Grandin Road.

Putz Christmas houses, available at The White Rabbit.

White ceramic holiday canal houses, available at Crate & Barrel. LED glittered frosted glass houses, available at Blue Dahlia Designs.

Emily Taylor for George & Viv Light-Up Holiday Village, Jolly's Toy Shop, available at Anthropologie.

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

Holiday Tabletop Tour Saturday, November 4th 10am - 4pm Learn holiday table tips & tricks and gain decoration inspiration from 9 local design shops. FREE EVENT

1. Start your tour at any shop. 2. Pick up your tour card at your first stop. 3. Get your tour card stamped at each shop to be eligible to win their door prize!

RSVP www.stlouishomesmag.com/events

Participating Shops Blue Dahlia Designs 7930 Big Bend Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63119 Topic: First frost Giveaway: Custom christmas floral arrangement The Gifted Gardener 8935 Manchester Rd. St. louis, MO 63144 Topic: Just desserts Giveaway: Antique candlesticks with taper battery candles Hearth & Soul 9640 Clayton Rd. St. Louis, MO 63124 Topic: Warm and cozy holiday wishes Giveaway: Linda richards lamb skin fur tote bag The Great Cover-Up 9708 Clayton Rd. Ladue, MO 63124 Topic: A festive holiday Giveaway: “Party” Gift Basket Donnelly Decor 14288 Manchester Rd. Suite 1, Manchester, MO 63011 Topic: A twinkling holiday experience Giveaway: Magnolia holiday wreath The Abbey 14334 Manchester Rd. Manchester, MO 63011 Topic: Enchanted elegance Giveaway: 24" Snow pine wreath with velvet bow Three French Hens 16935 Manchester Rd. Wildwood, MO 63040 Topic: Mixing metals in a traditional style Giveaway: Christmas floral centerpiece The Porch in Wildwood 16957 Manchester Rd. Wildwood, MO 63030 Topic: A rustic luxe Christmas Giveaway: Pair of jeweled wine glasses & seasonal candle Mary Tuttle’s Flowers 17021 Baxter Rd. Chesterfield, MO 63005 Topic: Christmas traditions Giveaway: Holiday gift basket

slhl INSIDER

Holiday MAGIC Rae Sutton of Three French Hens gives us her holiday tips and tricks, as well as what visitors can expect at Three French Hens this holiday season. Edited by Maya Brenningmeyer Photography by Colin Miller/Strauss-Peyton

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Feeling Nostalgic This season, I think everyone is craving a return to normalcy. I have been seeing an upswing in traditional and nostalgic decor. Think red and green, lots of ribbons and breaking out hand-me-down or antiqued pieces to incorporate here and there. Everyone wants to reminisce on the good times and decorate their homes in a way that feels warm and comfortable for them. I am excited to mix decades of trends to create fresh seasonal looks this year.

Seasons Change Most homeowners start the transition to Christmas decor the day after Halloween. It is typical for your halls to be decked out for Christmas from November 1st until the New Year. If you're hosting Thanksgiving, leave some harvest leaves, linens and decor within reach to decorate your gathering areas for the day or weekend. Everyone will enjoy your Christmas decor mixed in with Thanksgiving! The more cheer the better!

Keeping Tradition I am an old soul and have always leaned towards tradition. Lush greenery, tons of ornaments, Santa, reindeer—the works! My Christmas tree, at this point in its evolution, has large, frosted bulbs for lighting, some Old-World Santa ornaments, a lot of antique gold and long ribbon tails. Growing up, my grandmother always displayed teddy bears in her tree and it gave me an unspoken permission to really go all out when it comes to seasonal design. Christmas is such a fun time to play and get creative—even over-the-top - with your decor. Feeling Festive Three French Hens is fully stocked for the holidays! Shops should be stocked by now so that you are ready to decorate once Halloween is over. The season gets longer every year, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Holiday decorating is the most wonderful time of the year, and I love every moment of being covered in glitter to make our clients' holiday dreams come true. Don't Overthink It! Like I said - Christmas is the BEST time to branch out and get creative with your decor. Just an enjoyment of the season and a joy that comes from being surrounded by lights and sparkle. I've seen all-pink Christmases, purple Christmases, retro-style Christmases - everything under the sun. Your seasonal decor does not have to tie in perfectly with your everyday decor. My biggest piece of advice? Don't overthink it. Three French Hens has 25 fully decorated trees and 17 different themes of Christmas decor with endless options for creativity. Carefully curated to get your imagination running, but with enough selection that you will find what you are looking for. We are so grateful to all of our customers for our 20th year in business and 20th Holiday Season. Thank you, thank you, thank you! See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.

Pro tip Every year you should choose a few elements to add to your decor to keep things fresh — think a set of ornaments, a new tree topper and new garlands. I love using family heirlooms and ornaments that have sentimental value mixed with things that are new and fresh.

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slhl ARTIST

Deck the HOLIDAY TABLE Set with Grace transforms simple tabletops into tablescapes full of holiday charm and family memories. By Michelle Mastro Photography by Kim Dillon

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ecorating for Christmas and the holidays might be one of the best traditions at the end of the year. For the founders of Set with Grace, Tammy Gera and Nina Seitz, helping others find their own distinctive holiday table décor is just as fun. “Recognizing that Christmas is a very personal holiday where families cherish tradition and unique customs passed down from generation to generation, we find ourselves creating a unique tablescape design for each of our hosts and hostesses,” Tammy says. The holiday tables they create include classic holiday features. Picture a table enveloped in the warm glow of candlelight, fresh florals, arrangements of tree ornaments pepper the spread and accent bowls sit filled with fresh fruit or candied nuts. There might be even a family heirloom or two. To further emphasize their clients’ loved ones, the pair might even layer in personalized place cards with special messages for an added sweet touch. All these table accents feel like holiday magic at its finest. Yet all these traditional go-to holiday motifs doesn’t mean the pair only likes a traditional red, green and white color scheme. “Be it soft pastels like baby blue to plush pinks, to vibrant bold colors or even natural rustic tones, our goal is to create a tablescape that reflects the host’s style and preference,” Nina says. “We find that incorporating color trends can infuse a contemporary and fun twist to a Christmas table.” It’s these personal touches that truly make Christmas and the holidays spent with family even more special.

In fact, Tammy and Nina now decorate tables because they were inspired by their own family gatherings. “We both shared a love for making ordinary moments, like in-home Sunday brunches or book studies, into extraordinary experiences with a touch a creativity,” Tammy says. The pair are first cousins and the daughters of Greek immigrants whose bond grew around their families’ respective dinner tables and thriving restaurant businesses: Spiro’s Restaurant and The Tenderloin Room. “Our fondest memories are scented with the smells and flavors of our mothers’ Greek cooking and echo with the passionate conversations of loving and lively families.” With their experience of hosting and their eye for beautiful tablescapes, Set With Grace was born. Both women played integral parts in the success of their respective family restaurants, and their roots are based on the powerful connections and memories created around beautifully set tables. “As adults, we continued the tradition of hosting family gatherings, where we continued to stay connected with our shared passion of a beautifully set table,” Nina says. Now the pair makes beautiful tablescapes for clients. The process includes a consulting phase where they invite the customer in for a design session. “With a blank table, or what we like to think canvas,” they mention, “and inventory around, it’s pretty amazing to see how

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a customer’s personality begins to transpire.” The pair’s fine tabletop collections include a curated selection of boutique style dinnerware, glassware, flatware, linens and accessories that clients can select from. Slowly, the pair layers in a few basic pieces and encourage clients to pick out some of their pieces on hand to incorporate into the design. “They are hesitant at first, but they really start to have fun putting things together, switching out plates, linens, flatware and glasses until we come up with something that’s perfect.” In the end, no two tablescapes are ever alike. “And we see the excitement of our customers as they start to express how excited they are to host their event and can’t wait to see the faces of their guests when they sit down at their table.” See stlouishomesmag.com for more photos and resources.

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Freshly Festive Homeowner calls upon trusted design firm to envision a refined aesthetic in celebration of the season. By Kim Hill Photography by Anne Matheis Interior Design C&M Interiors Architect Srote & Co Home Builder Terbrock Luxury Homebuilders

This page: “We knew this room would be Julie’s office and she’s just a very fun, lively, bubbly person,” says interior designer Channing Krichevsky. “So, we were inspired to use a fun color (Farrow & Ball’s Stone Blue) and just saturate the walls, ceiling and built-ins with it. She loved it.” A fun room calls for whimsical holiday décor, and the mini bottlebrush trees in a myriad of colors fit the bill. Opposite page: Plastered walls here and throughout the dining area and kitchen provide a bit of French Country flair without overdoing it, says designer Channing Krichevsky. The arch of the black marble fireplace is a design element carried throughout the home in doorways, hallways, barrel ceilings and even in cabinetry. A trio of flocked trees celebrates the season.

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e can thank Beth Pelch for this house, both where it sits and for the fact that it was featured on the 2022 St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles and Cardinal Glennon Deck the Halls of Glennon Homes tour. It’s not Beth’s home, although she lives in the area. She is friends with homeowner Julie Meersman, who built the house with her husband Jay. Julie says they searched extensively for a large, flat lot to build their ‘forever home’ with space for a pool and expansive outdoor living. “Beth knew the house that was previously on this lot would be coming on the market, so we got in early,” says Julie. “She is responsible for us being here.” With the lot in Ladue secured, the Meersmans engaged a creative team to design and build the home. Architect Robert Srote, principal of Srote & Co., listened to the couple’s wish list— open concept, everyday living on the ground level, including a first-floor primary bedroom suite; large kitchen with walk-in pantry; outdoor living spaces; and a lap pool for Jay, an avid swimmer. “We went room to room with Robert, going over ideas and talking about what we wanted,” Julie recalls. “He did not miss one word of what we said.” Even the first draft of plans included nearly everything on their list. A previous customer of builder Steve Terbrock referred him to the couple. “Working with Steve was an absolute joy,” says Julie.

“He is an extremely honest, trustworthy and detail-focused builder. His priorities aligned perfectly with ours, to focus on quality while also keeping costs in line with budget.” C&M Interiors handled detailing of spaces and the design aesthetic. “She wanted more of an updated take on French Country,” says Channing Krichevsky, C&M principal designer. “We accomplished this in a couple of ways. One was the materials, selecting a slightly more rustic-looking hardwood flooring, for example.” The other key design element was plastered walls. “All the walls in the main areas are a textured gray color, using original plaster techniques, which gives a bit of that flair without screaming ‘country.’ The plastered walls were a huge part of our design direction,” says Channing. The home’s custom cabinetry is a defining feature. “We spent hours and hours of our weekly progress meetings going through the details of cabinetry, both inside and out,” says Steve, president of Terbrock Luxury Homebuilders. “The cabinetry is really special in this house. Through a lot of coordination with the cabinetmakers, we were able to do pretty much everything the owners or the interior designer wanted to do, like LED and strip lighting added to the cabinetry.” Channing says the kitchen “is probably one of the most functional kitchens we’ve ever designed, although that’s something we practice pretty deeply here—functionality and making sure a space works for a homeowner.” The cabinetmakers—Wilson Kitchens & More based in

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Arthur, Illinois—also crafted a built-in hutch in the dining space, cabinetry in the his-and-hers closets in the primary suite, and arched upper cabinets in a wet bar area. The designer feels one of the home’s more unique aspects is the flow. “The three main living spaces – living, dining and kitchen – are very open and connected to each other but in a way that they feel distinctly their own,” says Channing. “The living room has these beautiful, plastered walls, really comfy furniture and a beautiful arched fireplace, all designed for relaxation, and then the dining room is open to that space but feels a bit more refined.” The kitchen’s wood beams and the walnut-faced drawers and rounded wood legs on the island bring a rustic element to the crisp white cabinetry and quartzite countertops. Cool blue and blue-green tones add color to an overall neutral color palette. After the home was finished, the Meersmans hosted a few small fundraising events where some of the guests included members of the Glennon Guild’s Deck the Halls committee. Beth is also a member of the Glennon Guild, who asked if Julie would be a part of the 2022 Deck the Halls tour. “I have a hard time saying ‘no’ to Beth,” Julie smiles. “She is a lovely person, and I also knew Traci Ragsdale, who was working on the tour. So, I kind of did it for them, although I fully believe in the cause.” After agreeing to the tour, Julie immediately called Channing for help with the holiday décor. “The color palette in Julie’s home and traditional Christmas red and green just wouldn’t play well together,” says Channing. “We both

Chairs sourced from Centro Modern Furnishings can lean in to blue or green hues, depending on the light, says Channing Krichevsky. They pair with a black table from Restoration Hardware. “This room is open to the kitchen but yet feels a bit more refined than the living room space,” says Channing. “It’s got great circulation in terms of traffic flow, and everyone feels like they are together for gatherings, no matter what space they are in.” Crate & Barrel china in varying shades of teal sets the color palette for a merry holiday table. “I love this and use it all the time, not just at Christmas,” says homeowner Julie Meersman. C&M Interiors completed the Deck the Halls tablescape with gold chargers, candlesticks and other accents.

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The kitchen’s wood beams and the walnut-faced drawers and rounded wood legs on the island bring a rustic element to the crisp white cabinetry and quartzite countertops. Cabinet doors conceal a refrigerator, freezer and a walk-in pantry. “This is probably one of the most functional kitchens we’ve ever designed,” says C&M Interiors principal designer Channing Krichevsky.

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To give the home an updated take on modern French Country, the designers suggested a more rustic hardwood for the flooring and specified the diamond-shaped design in the foyer. Eschewing traditional Christmas red and green, holiday décor focuses on a palette of pinks and blue-greens with metallic accents.

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A lush botanical wallpaper from Schumacher lends a dreamy air to an accent wall in the primary bedroom.

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The arch design element carries from the opening to the primary suite’s sitting area to the windows. Spare holiday touches such as pillows and a pencil-shaped tree add seasonal charm to the sophisticated space. A China White marble surround ensures the fireplace is the focal point on the plaster wall. A sculpted rug adds texture.

agreed on that immediately. Their home is so fresh, we just felt like it needed unique, fresh elements.” And Julie notes that she doesn’t like “overdone” Christmas décor. For a streamlined look with a fresh eye on festive, C&M took inspiration from elements already in play in the home. For example, they utilized pampas grasses instead of garland, and found blue and pink ornaments complementing the existing color palette. They did deviate from the understated design when planning décor in the outdoor living room. The Meersmans had decided to leave their pool open for the tour, and its 75-foot-length makes it visible from all windows and doors overlooking the back yard. “Because they were going to have the pool open, we wanted to do something a little cheeky,” says Channing. “We thought it would be funny if we did this retro, Palm Springs vibe, and Julie thought that was hilarious.” Complete with an inflatable reindeer in the pool, the feeling is 1960s Santa-at-the-beach with peppermint swirl pillows and pink flamingos dangling from the lighted palm tree. “I knew I wanted to change a lot of my Christmas things for this house, so I thought it would be great to do it for the tour, too,” says Julie, who is now a member of the Glennon Guild. “I love the cause, so I’m glad to be involved. And working with C&M, I knew we’d get the overall festive look just right.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.

The Meersmans opted to keep their pool open for the Deck the Halls of Glennon Homes holiday tour. The designers were inspired to do a retro, Palm Springs vibe for the outdoor living room. “Julie thought the idea was hilarious, so we just went for it,” says designer Channing Krichevsky, noting the inflatable reindeer pool float, lighted palm tree complete with flamingo ornaments, and vintage-looking mugs add cheeky fun to the otherwise luxurious outdoor living area.

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Fresh, Fun Christmas in a

RENEWED SPACE Creve Coeur couple trades empty nest for heart full of innovative winter interior design.

By Julie Brown Patton Photogrpahy by Anne Matheis Interior Design Fratt & Busch Home Builder R.G. Apel

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hen Creve Coeur residents and recent empty nesters Kathleen and Brian Lovett decided in 2022 to curate “whimsical season décor with less-restrained nods to Christmas and purposeful homage to winter,” Kathleen admits they debated how far to take a fresh, casual concept for such an established holiday. “We’d just finished renovating the house’s first floor before the Christmas season, and wanted to create a fun, warm look within our new space,” recalls Kathleen. “But we also wanted to do something festive that logically transitioned beyond Christmas because we planned to host a New Year’s Eve party.” Their novel, vibrant holiday ambiance, anchored by more customary, majestic gold hues, was achieved with the assistance of interior designer Deirdre (Dede) Fratt, principal of Fratt & Bush Home in St. Louis. The final decoration results were a huge hit with attendees of the 2022 St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital Guild ticketed, self-guided tour of four beautifully decorated homes for the holidays to raise money for children cared for by the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon medical team. The Lovetts’ pops of surprising Yuletide colors essentially took last year’s Cardinal Glennon ‘Deck the Halls’ tour to a new level. “For something different, we wanted to get away from just a red and green scheme, and Dede helped tremendously in creating and executing a

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joyful, shiny vision. At times, it did feel like a mad-dash scramble, but we were still grateful for where we ended up,” Kathleen says. “I think we arrived at an elegant look that was out of the box, but was still like a new interpretation of a classic Christmas story,” Dede suggests, indicating she drew some color inspiration from timeless blue and green wallpaper already in the home. Dede says she believes it’s imperative for home interior design results to reflect personalities of the owners. “In the case of the Lovetts, the holiday décor mirrored who they truly are as a nice, warm family.” When entering the home, visitors immediately were set at ease with a rustic yet contemporary trail of pinecone-mingled garland winding up the curved staircase, accentuated by periodic gold and white ribbons to match light-colored walls for a clean, chic first impression. Shaggy trees, a bowl of pinecones and a small, white nativity scene graced the entryway table. The home also was donned with special table settings assembled by and rented from Set With Grace tablescape designs, which featured nontraditional pastel-colored flowers, pomegranates, oranges and pears, making colorful shades sprinkled over a two-toned green and white plaid table cloth. In addition to being colorfully jolly, oranges have multiple reasons for being part of Christmas: oranges in stockings stem from the generosity of Saint Nicholas (also known as Santa Claus,

This fresh Christmas/New Year's look incorporated aqua and teal-colored elements to match some of the home's whimsical wallpaper and recent remodeling touches.

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Father Christmas, Kris Kringle and Old Saint Nick). Oranges were given as treats during the Great Depression, and, in some cultures, oranges are considered lucky and a gift for wishing good fortune to recipients. Atop the Lovetts’ dining table, plates with gold stars, golden flatware, a white bowl of pink-wrapped candies to match the floral arrangement and jewel-green boxes of decadent chocolates greeted diners, completing a room of hospitality. Bloomin' Buckets fashioned the floral decorations, which included soft pink, coral and subtle pumpkin-orange roses. Sprigs of greenery were placed throughout. “Roses are unusual for that time of year, and we wanted them to be unexpected. Those on the guided tour said they wouldn’t have thought of it, which made me happy, given that we were going for ‘not a literal’ Christmas,” Kathleen explains. “Even though our house is considered an open floor plan by most, after being in it for 20-plus years, we realized we needed our home to function differently for our new lifestyle,” says Kathleen, who works as a real estate agent of the Lovett Donovan Team for Janet McAfee Real Estate. During the renovation, she says the kitchen became twice as large, and is very much a part of overall action. So, they wanted the new light, bright kitchen space to be amply decorated as well. That look was achieved by tying white and gold ribbons on the ceiling lights, and decorating with plentiful greenery, reindeer, a sleigh, birch trees and a snowman. The greenery and certain furnishing accents were secured from Marketplace at The Abbey in Manchester. Kathleen says she grew up with traditional, cherry-red and evergreen seasonal decorations, including silver tinsel. “My mother loved Christmas,

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and it was her highlight of the year. Many of the ornaments on her tree were handmade, and all of them had super-special meanings.” She says the tradition she and Brian follow with their own two daughters is to pull out a box of ornaments and take walks down memory lane via discussions of the ornaments’ origins, reliving nostalgic times. In 2022, the Lovetts struck a compromise by decorating one tree and fireplace with traditional hues, but the other tree and mantel with a new vibe that was coastal and airy. “I’d never done ribbons for treetops before. Typically, my Old-World Santa topped the tree,” adds Kathleen. During the house’s renovation, she says they closed off their hearth room, making it a cozy bar area. There, for last year’s holiday decorating, they applied red and green accents and napkins, garland with lights, and a white birch tree decorated with liquor-inspired ornaments, all overseen by a special Nutcracker associated with Brian’s mother. “I love that time of year because it’s family-oriented and brings out the best in people,” says the certified relocation specialist willing to take a few bold risks for what’s often considered a vintage-rich holiday. Reactions to the Lovetts’ merry Christmas décor during 2022 were indeed positive, affirms Kathleen. “We heard a lot of wows. Honestly, the end result didn’t reflect your grandmother’s or your mother’s Christmas, but we still wanted to fill our home with that same type of welcoming warmth that pulled people together and made them feel comforted.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

CREATING CHRISTMAS

Magic A St. Louis couple collaborated with their designer of nearly two decades to create the picture-perfect holiday home for one of their favorite charities and their family’s favorite time of year.

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By Jeanne de Lathouder // Photography by Anne Matheis Architect Jeff Day & Associates // Interior Design Christine Ronzio Interiors

Against the kitchen’s elegant black accents, splashes of red berries and ribbons mix with holiday greenery and homemade treats, composing a spectacular Christmas tableau for family and guests.

fter 20 years of raising a family in their beloved St. Louis home, Melissa and Joe Jedlicka welcomed the opportunity to support one of their favorite charities while celebrating their favorite time of year—the Christmas season. As a member of the Glennon Guild, Melissa wanted to share their home and love for the season by decking the halls in style for the St. Louis Homes + Lifestyles and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon holiday house tour. They immediately turned to Christine Ronzio, their designer of more than 15 years, to help them conceptualize a show-stopping holiday display that would dazzle their guests. “I’ve enjoyed designing for Melissa and Joe for years—along with my teammate Julie Merrill — and we have watched their family grow and evolve,” says Christine, owner of Christine Ronzio Interiors. “The wonderful time we’ve spent together has deeply influenced our design concepts for the couple’s everyday aesthetic as well as their holiday home.” When Christine began working with the Jedlicka family several years ago, their personal collections symbolized the traditional elements of Christmas, many of which they have held on to as the

focal point of their holiday design. They love the customary red hues with accents of gold, sumptuous greenery and family heirlooms that create a warm and inviting celebration. “Their family is large and welcoming, which is the feeling we wanted to evoke to all who experience the holidays in their home,” notes Christine. The couple’s home features generous rooms centered around a large kitchen built for hosting intimate dinners with friends, celebrating every holiday with 40-plus family members and having parties for hundreds at a time. The signature style of Christine Ronzio Interiors is rooted in modern traditional design with an eclectic mix. Her inspiration for the holiday décor blended perfectly with Joe and Melissa’s Christmas traditions and treasured collections. After nearly two decades of working together, they have a truly trusting relationship that allows visions to become reality with a striking and elevated result. “Our goal from the beginning—and spanning multiple additions to the house—has been to create a comfortable and fun home designed to entertain family and friends,” says Melissa. “Christmas has always been our favorite time of the year. Adding to the spirit and magic

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

Adorned with Santa figurines, plush red ribbons, and twinkling candles and lights, a casual dining area radiates with cozy holiday warmth. An opulent hallway vignette features a mirror embellished with a beribboned wreath, amplifying the festive feel while reflecting the great room’s showcase balsam tree.

of the season, we’ve gathered a unique collection of nutcrackers and handmade Santa figurines by Lynn Haney that we sprinkle throughout our home.” As gracious hosts, the couple’s user-friendly kitchen is the heart of the home. The functional space also features a flexible palette and warm backdrop for integrating a holiday aesthetic for family meals and tasty treats throughout the season. Red bows, wreaths and lavish greenery bring warmth to the kitchen and throughout the entire home, creating a cohesive feel from room to room without disrupting the functionality and flow of family gatherings and large-scale entertaining. Bedecked with vibrant red blooms, berries, bows and festive figurines, the home radiates a warm holiday spirit. Cascading greenery, fresh wreaths and twinkling Christmas trees dress nearly every room from top to bottom. Black accents throughout the home—from furniture pieces and lighting fixtures to accessories and the kitchen’s polished stone-topped island anchor the extravagant décor with a touch of elegance. Plush pillows and throws layered on upholstered seating pieces create an element of winter coziness, and opulent candelabras flickering with holiday candles emit a luminous glow.

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The great room’s dazzling display makes a joyous visual experience for holiday guests and family members. Nearly every square inch—from the fireplace and mantel to the gigantic tree and tabletop surfaces—is graced with Christmas magic.

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Throughout the home, festive vignettes and beautiful holiday trees emanate the warm spirit of Christmas. Red blooms and greenery adorn every space, including the lavish dining room, where a buffet table decked with shimmering tree figurines takes center stage.

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Among the half dozen Christmas trees in the house, the den features a family tree with homemade ornaments, pictures of the couple’s children throughout the years and cherished family collections. But the show-stopping focal point of Joe and Melissa’s holiday home is their 12-foot balsam fir Christmas tree that presides next to the great room’s towering stone fireplace. Bejeweled from head to toe in sparkling lights, rich red ornaments and yards of red ribbon, this tree is the star design element that brings the most joy to all who are lucky enough to experience it. “The Jedlickas have a large, loving family that celebrates all events, both big and small, so an oversized tree was a must,” says Christine. “With kids running around on Christmas morning, it’s a feature that would make even Santa proud!” By far, one of Christine’s most vivid memories while working on this project was when the colossal balsam fir collapsed from its hefty weight just hours after they put on the finishing touches. There were

only a few minor ornament casualties, but thankfully, they managed to get the tree back up and make it look stunning for the tour—and the rest of the holiday season. “With thousands of lights and hundreds of ornaments weighing it down, we barely survived when the behemoth fell to the floor two nights before the house tour,” Melissa recalls, laughing. “We have always tried to find the largest Christmas tree that could fit in the great room, and this soaring, extra-wide balsam just squeezes into the 12-foot ceilings. It took several elves to get it back to looking beautiful again.” “Christine has boundless energy and creativity for every occasion,” adds Melissa. “Our friend and decorator, she has a special talent to design our cherished holiday collections in a way that creates Christmas imagery in every room that truly has a magical impact.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos. STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

These architectural firms are doing some of the best work in the Greater St. Louis area. We’re proud to call them our architect partners. Look to them first for your next project.

Srote & Co Architects sroteco.com

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Lauren Strutman Architects P.C. laurenstrutmanarchitects.com

Brendel Architects, LLC brendelarchitects.com

Donna F. Boxx, Architect, P.C. boxxarchitect.com

Dick Busch Architects dickbuscharchitects.com

Schaub Projects Architecture + Design schaubprojects.com

William D. Cover, Architect LLC williamdcoverarchitect.com

Jeff Day & Associates jeffdayllc.com

DL Design DLDesign.com

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With Boughs OF HOLLY Frontenac family’s holiday decorations bring back memories, and celebrate fun By Gina Parsons Photography by Anne Matheis Builder REA Homes

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Bringing out the holiday ornaments is Gina Ryan’s favorite part about decorating for the holidays. “We have ornaments from every place we have traveled. Every year our girls, (my husband) Jay and I get an ornament on St. Nick’s Day and on Christmas,” she says. “I love how the majority of the ornaments tell a story. Whether it be a place that we went, or something that the girls accomplished, or one of our hobbies. It always tells a story.” The Frontenac family decorates all three floors of the house, plus the outside. “We do the same decorations every year, with a few additions each year,” Gina says. “It’s my favorite time of the year.” In 2022, their house was on the Deck the Halls of Glennon Homes tour. St. Louis Homes and Lifestyles and the SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital Guild team up each year to offer the home tour to raise money for the children cared for by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon. Gina has volunteered with the guild since spring 2022. “A friend of mine contacted me and asked if I’d be on the guild, and it’s been great ever since,” Gina says. “I have met some wonderful women and I love the work we do to help raise money for Cardinal Glennon.” Kirkwood Florist donated the centerpiece displayed on their dining room table. “They did our wedding and we have been using them since then—even when we lived in Florida,” she says. Linda Higgins, from The Abbey, also came by with some final touches to complete the look. The family usually has about 13 Christmas trees, all of different sizes. The “family tree,” is the largest tree, and is Gina’s favorite holiday decoration. It holds many ornaments that were given to family members as presents throughout the years, Gina says. “Some go back as far as ones received for wedding gifts and for the girls’ baptisms,” she says. Others were given by Santa to the girls when they were young.

Their three girls, Keeley, Sophia and Karlie, attend colleges away from home but join in the decorating tradition when they return. They each have a miniature decorative tree in their rooms. There also is a ‘girls tree.’. “It features ornaments from their high schools when we lived in Florida and here, their sororities and their colleges,” Gina explains. The outdoor decorations include lights, and fun inflatables including a reindeer pulling Santa on his sled, a couple of Christmas trees, an 12-foot-tall snowman and a penguin. There also are pink flamingos in the backyard to represent the time the family lived in Florida. “The neighborhood seems to enjoy the blow ups every year,” Gina says. “I think they really enhance your decoration.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

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Rockin’ Around the

CHRISTMAS TREE Keep your holidays merry and bright with a real Christmas tree. By Maya Brenningmeyer

It’s hard to beat the excitement of finding the perfect real Christmas tree for your home. The smell of fresh pine, finding the best spot in your home and breaking out your favorite ornaments is a feeling that can’t be beat. To help you harness this Christmas magic, here is some can’t miss info on the season’s most popular pine tree. Checking for Freshness One of the most important parts of getting a real tree is making sure it’s fresh. One of the easiest ways to do this is to pull one of the branches. If a few needles come off once it’s pulled, the tree is fresh!

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Decking the Halls When cared for properly, most Christmas trees will last between 4 to 6 weeks. The most popular time to buy a tree is the weekend after Thanksgiving or the following week. This way, buyers can get the optimal amount of time out of their real tree. An important tip is to trim the trunk of your tree right before you put it into the tree stand. If you wait too long to put the tree into the stand with water, sap will form over the cut preventing water from entering the tree. Giving the trunk a fresh cut is a great way to prevent this from happening!

Additional tip: Make sure your tree stand always has water the first few days you have your tree. The tree will soak up a lot of water in the beginning!

Reuse or Recycle Once the holidays are over and your tree is turning brown or losing needles, it’s time to dispose of your real Christmas tree. A lot of communities offer Christmas tree pickup; check your county’s website for more information on home pick-ups. There’s also multiple drop-off locations around St. Louis. These lists are updated each year and can be found on St. Louis County’s website (www.stlouiscountymo.gov). Make sure to remove all ornaments and decorations from the tree before dropping them off! If you want to utilize your tree after the holidays, there are multiple ways to preserve parts of your real tree! Using tree parts as habitats for wildlife - for example a pond habitat - is a popular option. You can also cut the trunk of the Christmas tree to make coasters or homemade decorations for next year, the possibilities are endless!

Types of Christmas Trees Balsam fir Best known for their scent, Balsam fir trees are recognized by the conical shape and dark, flat needle-like leaves. An easy way to distinguish between a fir and a spruce is to check the consistency of the needles—fir trees have soft needles that are easy to roll between your fingers. Scotch pine Due to their ability to not drop needles, these trees are great for homeowners who want a real tree with minimal mess. With dark green leaves and sturdy branches, these trees can hold some seriously heavy ornaments. Fraser fir A Fraser fir can be identified by its upturned branches and dark blue-green shade. The tree is very similar to a Balsam fir but is more compact due to the shape of its branches. The average lifespan of a Fraser fir once it’s cut is five weeks. Norway spruce Only being grown for Christmas trees more recently, the Norway spruce is a tree for homeowners who are dedicated to putting more effort into their tree’s upkeep. The tree itself is known for dropping needles and needing additional attention when it comes to watering, but its unique shape and branch size sets it apart from more traditional trees.

Photography courtesy of Wishon Evergreens.

Fun Facts: Real Christmas trees are grown in all 50 states and Canada Real trees are a renewable and recyclable resource The average growing time for a real tree is seven years but can fluctuate between 4 and 15 years.

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

Winter Classes + Parties Create your own live, evergreen decor this year in our winter classes! All planters, wreath forms, and materials included in pricing

Winter Planters November 18 10am & 1pm $80

Live Wreaths

December 2 10am & 1:30 pm $85

Winter Centerpieces December 9 10am & 1:30pm $70

Private Parties

Book a time for your friends or throw a fun & unique holiday party this year! Available Monday - Saturday, November 27th - December 20th Pricing varies per class type and selection options Minimum 3 people for parties

Parties Include Complimentary Hot Chocolate Bar For more information & to book, please call or visit our Garden Center page on our website 636-532-9307 | www.ChesterfieldValleyNursery.com

Window Treatments to Buzz About!

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Our extensive lineup of products: Blinds Shades Shutters Drapery Motorization Outdoor Solutions

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Your Vision. Our Expertise. Marsha Russo, Owner, GM Cell: 314.471.9198 mrusso@BumbleBeeBlinds.com St. Louis, MO www.BumbleBeeBlinds.com

See our work on pages 20-27.

Steve Terbrock, Owner 314-280-2147 www.terbrock.com

Family business since 1986

Hardscapes Patios, Walls & Walkways Planting beds Water features Waterfalls, Fountains & Ponds Customize pool area Outdoor Living Outdoor Kitchens, Fences, Arbors & Gazebos

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STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

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Bright Winter Blooms Poinsettias are back at The Missouri Botanical Garden with a new variety, Pepita. By Catherine Martin Photography by Tom Incrocci

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The Missouri Botanical Garden grows about 1,000 poinsettias for its Holiday Floral Show. The poinsettias arrive in July as little seedling plugs where they are planted into pots and fertilized. After a few weeks, horticulture staff trim the plants to encourage branching, or trim off side shoots on the single stems to make them taller. Once they are established in their pots, the team puts them on an automatic drip system that gives them a set amount of fertilizer water every day. This helps prevent fungal diseases and ensures each poinsettia gets the same amount of water so their growth is more uniform. They start coloring naturally around mid-October. By November, they are ready for the show! New variety this year: 'Pepita.’ This is a smaller version of Ranch Red, introduced to the show last year. The plants have a strong cyathia presentation on a smaller scale. Rinehart Poinsettias donated 35 'Pepita' poinsettias for the Garden's 2023 show.

7930 Big Bend Blvd. Webster Groves, MO 314-274-8717

www.bluedahliadesigns.net

Scan this QR Code for all of our Upcoming Holiday Events and Workshops

Holiday Tabletop Tour, Saturday, Nov. 4

Mon: Closed | Tues-Wed: 10am-5pm | Thurs: 10am-7pm | Fri-Sat: 10am-5pm | Sun: 12pm-4pm

Holiday Tabletop Tour, Saturday, Nov. 4

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM MARCH 2023

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Festive FOYERS Welcome holiday guests with an entryway decked out in merry holiday décor. By Melissa Mauzy

By Regina Gust. Putting contemporary decor in a Southern-style home to the test, the designer created a luxurious and dramatic staircase so chic it was envied. Leaning into lightly flocked garland with a sage green cast, the designer curated various shades of gold leaves for depth and incorporated beautiful gold and light blue textured glass ornaments. Photography by Claudia Casbarian for Julie Soefer Photography.

By Regina Gust. The designer conceptualized the creative direction by leaning into the balance of Southern Charm, mixing the artificial garland against the organic vision of fresh Magnolia leaves. Pulling in beautiful red velvet bows and showstopper “ShiShi” ornaments, this staircase blends the traditional Christmas aura with the Southern regal. Photography by Claudia Casbarian for Julie Soefer Photography.

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By Blue Sky Environments Interior Décor. For this stunning waterfront home, Christmas decorating is inspired by a coastal palette of aqua, gold and silver. Shell and evergreen garlands woven together with splashes of natural sea accents add just the right touch of seasonal splendor. Mercury glass ball wreaths accented with sea fans and seahorse ornaments are hung from the nautical hooks of a stunning custom piece made from a reclaimed church pew. Photography by Nicole Pereira.

Holiday Tabletop Tour, Saturday, Nov. 4

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

slhl BRIGHT IDEA

By Rusted Chandelier. The designer loves to add a punch of color to this fun foyer. Long needle pine is always a good garland to choose, and the bright colors makes it a little 10 degrees off, which is what Rusted Chandelier loves to do. Photography by Liz Arnold.

By Linly Designs. Enhance your entryway for the holidays. An elegant pallet of ivory, champagne and bronze will welcome your guests and set the tone for a sophisticated entertaining season. Photography by Linly Designs.

By Inspiring Designs. This large entryway in an industrial/modern home provides statement lighting that needed decor to balance out the space. The metal sideboard provides just the right amount of space to add these tall, thin, locally-made hand-turn wooden trees. The baskets with throw blankets add warmth to this large space. Photography by Al Shirado.

By Rusted Chandelier. Using white eucalyptus garland in with cedar garland is a fun way to add some drama to this beautiful foyer. Great ribbon on a newel post is alway a must. You can never go wrong with red and white. Photography by Liz Arnold.

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S ale of the Y ear ! B igg est

Holiday Tabletop Tour, Saturday, Nov. 4

Holiday Open House November 9th - 12th

25 years experience

Everyone can benefit from tinting the windows in your home. It allows you to keep your beautiful view while protecting your furnishings from the sun’s damaging rays and cuts down on glare for a more comfortable feel when you relax at home.

It's Time to Tint! Window Film That Keeps Everyone Comfortable & Protected

Unsurpassed quality film and installation 2766 Highway K O´Fallon, MO 63368 Hours: 10am-4pm 636-497-8189 Metro Tint is the Solar Gard exclusive dealer in the Greater St. Louis area.

@metrotintllc www.metrotintstl.com

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

slhl SPOTLIGHT

Unwrapping Elegance:

RIBBONS By Wendy Noory

BOWS

In the realm of interior design, where trends come and go, some motifs endure as perennial classics. Among these enduring symbols of beauty and refinement, the ribbon and bow motifs have gracefully woven their way into the very fabric of interior design. Whether adorning furnishings, wallcoverings or decorative accessories, these intricate designs have a history rich in symbolism and a timeless allure that continues to captivate homeowners and designers alike. The use of ribbons and bows in interior design can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Greece, the knot of Heracles, a precursor to the modern bow, symbolized strength and unity. Similarly, in ancient Rome, decorative bows adorned furnishings and textiles as symbols of prestige and opulence. These motifs transcended time and culture, finding their way into various design styles throughout history. The 18th century distinct influence on furniture was the famous furniture designer, Thomas Chippendale. His French style with extravagant, carved details led to the rework of the Queen Anne style chair, to incorporate pierced back splats and an array of ribbon motifs and scrolls. The ribband-back chair was one of the most expensive and exquisitely carved pieces of the time. The 19th century Victorian era is renowned for its ornate and opulent design aesthetic. Often seen in drapery, upholstery and furniture, ribbons and bows exuded femininity, grace and romance. As the 19th century gave way to the 20th century, interior design evolved, giving rise to the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements. Ribbons and bows continued to feature prominently, but with a modern twist. Today, the ribbon and bow motifs have made a resounding comeback in interior design. Their timeless elegance appeals to both traditionalists and modernists, providing a versatile means of adding a touch of refinement to any space. From delicate ribbon-trimmed throw pillows to bold, oversized bow-patterned wallcoverings, these motifs have transcended their historical roots to become a staple of contemporary design. Designers are finding innovative ways to incorporate ribbons and bows into modern interior design. In minimalist spaces, a single ribbon-accented piece can serve as a focal point, creating a striking contrast to the clean lines and neutral palette. In maximalist settings, layering multiple elements, such as bow-patterned wallpapers, bow-tied curtains and ribbon-adorned furniture, adds a sense of opulence and drama. The enduring allure of ribbons and bows in interior design products and furnishings lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their rich history and symbolism. From the extravagance of the Victorian era to the sleekness of Art Deco and the contemporary revival, these motifs continue to capture the imagination of designers and homeowners alike. As they continue to evolve, ribbons and bows remain a symbol of timeless elegance in the ever-changing world of interior design, proving that some design elements are truly ageless.

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Deck the Halls of GLENNON HOMES CHRISTMAS TOUR $40 PER PERSON Saturday, December 9, 2023 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Only online pre-pay accepted: stlouishomesmag.com

Join in for a day of Christmas spirit touring gorgeous homes bursting with holiday inspiration! View beautifully decorated homes for the holidays by some of the top STL design teams and talented homeowners while raising money for the children cared for by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon. All ticket proceeds to benefit SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.

HOSTED BY:

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Farm Fresh Holiday Wishes Mary Signorelli, of Le Coeur Design, transforms her parents farmhouse into a magical holiday gathering place. By Maya Brenningmeyer Photography by Anne Matheis Architecture and Interior Design by Le Coeur Design Builder G.K. Meyer Construction

Purchased in 2020, this 1800s cabin-turnedfarmhouse sits atop a 50-acre property and serves as a gathering space for friends and family. After undergoing numerous renovations in the 1980s, the property was mainly painted drywall, laminate floors and Formica countertops. After purchasing the home, Paul and Frannie Erker were eager to expose the timber framing that lived beneath the drywall. Gary Meyer of G.K. Meyer Construction helped the Erkers peel back the cabin’s layers to expose the original timber frame construction, as well as the original hardwood floors and wood beam ceiling. Transforming the dated farmhouse into an open, vibrant space that celebrated the home’s beginnings. When it came time to decorate the renovated kitchen, the homeowners turned to their daughter, Mary Signorelli of Le Coeur Design, who designed the space. “I would describe the overall aesthetic of the kitchen as ‘refined rustic’,” says Signorelli. Missouri walnut and painted maple cabinetry, white diamond quartzite stone and unlacquered brass fixtures all inspired the space’s farm fresh, festive design. “We brought in fresh evergreens, garland, red

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

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berries and poinsettias from local flower supplier, Baisch & Skinner,” Mary says. Garland lightly hangs over the kitchen cabinetry and a simple wreath is placed over the range hood. Poinsettias and red berries provide the perfect pop of color throughout the kitchen and dining room. A beautiful holiday tablescape finishes out the two spaces and provides a festive place to gather with a sentimental flair. The Erker family’s Christmas china and heirloom silver bells, gifted by Frannie’s late mother, add a personal touch to the decor. With ample space to entertain, there’s no question why the farmhouse is the home to the Erker family’s largest family tradition —Thanksgiving. Each year, the gathering exceeds 100 people and is a cherished tradition for the family. Multiple party tents are set out to accommodate the guests and many people can be found exploring the property after the festivities. “My parents unleashed the soul of this property,” says Mary. “You can feel its energy when you walk in the front door — its history, its stature and its warm embrace.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.

STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

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GIFT GUIDE Spread Holiday cheer this year by shopping locally!

Curate your own specialty gift box with us!

Rusted Chandelier

Nutcrackers are in the air! 314-858-1039 rustedchandelier.com

The Great Cover-Up

Lux soy candle. greatcoverupdesign.com

Bella Chic Home & Gift

Hearthandsoul.com 314-567-SOUL

14k gold filled jewelry from enewton designs. 314-392-9354 bellachichomeandgift.com

ferns and finds

Forshaw Gas fireplace conversions. forshaws.com

Hearth & Soul

A home and gift boutique 314-786-5009 / fernsandfinds.com

GIFT GUIDE The White Hare

Mercury glass trees. thewhitehare.com 636-441-1111

Donnelly Décor

JAC Designs

Gorgeous porcelain diffusers make the most beautiful gifts. 14288 Manchester Rd., St. Louis, MO 63011 636-386-5150

Gold and Silver Bracelets jacdesigns.shop

Holidays at

November 29 - December 10

Dec 19

Dec 22

December 26 - January 7

December 12-17

Dec 20

Dec 23

Dec 21

GIFT CARDS - Give the thrill of Live Entertainment 314-534-1 1 1 1 • MetroTix.com STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM NOV/DEC 2023

slhl CONNECT

Home for the Holidays

Anheuser-Busch’s Brewery Lights display is back for its 38th year and provides a great opportunity for locals to celebrate one of St. Louis’s most popular staples. By Maya Brenningmeyer Photography courtsey of Anheuser-Busch

You don’t have to travel far to experience holiday magic! St. Louis is full of holiday activities that are perfect for friends and family alike. Anheuser-Busch has been at the center of St. Louis’s local food and drink scene since its creation in the 1850s. From then on, the brewery has continued to grow exponentially, offering shipping nationwide, working towards sustainability and participating in community outreach programs. While they’re best known for their unique brews, one of their most popular ventures is the annual Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights display. For over 30 years, the St. Louis staple has decorated its brewery campus with breathtaking light and holiday displays. One of the buildings featured in the display is the brewhouse built in 1891, which sits just ahead of the 1879 brewhouse — the oldest surviving structure on the property. These brewhouses are part of a series of buildings designed and constructed for Anheuser-Busch as the company continued to expand. The older structure, built in 1879, is four stories tall and was built in conjunction with

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the main building. As the brewery moved through sets of renovations, the layout of the campus fluctuated to accommodate modern changes. A great example of this is when Anheuser-Busch was the first to utilize artificial refrigeration, which allowed them to demolish or repurpose the cellars and ice houses already on the property. The Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights display is a wonderful opportunity for St. Louisans to celebrate the innovation and history of the brewery, as well as the holiday season. Beginning the weekend of November 18-19, the brewery is continuing its tradition of beautiful lights displays with a twist. The brewhouse, as well as the Old Schoolhouse museum, will be available to keep visitors warm as they view never-before-seen historical items from Anheuser-Busch’s archives. Nightly Budweiser Clydesdale parades continue and an ice maze, DJ, train ride and collection of inflatables is more than enough to keep everyone in the family entertained. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.

Brewery Lights dates: November 18th-19th, 22nd-24th, 25th-26th and 30th December 1st-3rd, 7th-10th, 14th-17th, 21st-23rd, 27th-30th Ages 6-20, $5 admission 21+, $12 admission Kids 5 and under are free!

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