Interior Design Studio KTW Photography Carmen Troesser
6 Publisher’s letter 10 Window Shopping 14 The Insider 16 Artisan
50 The Dirt 54 Shaws Vision
FEATURES DEPARTMENTS
58 Snapshot
62 Snapshot
72 Bright Idea
76 Connect
80 Classic or Craze �6
18. CONNECTION & CRAFTSMANSHIP
With dreams of designing a new forever home, this St. Louis couple was inspired to preserve all their family memories by building a new house on the same property in place of their old one.
28. SOLD ON THE SETTING
A gorgeous lot’s many attributes convince a family this is the place to build their dream home.
37. KITCHENS OF THE YEAR
Kitchens can be functional, beautiful, tailored to one’s needs…or all of the above. This year’s Kitchens of the Year winners check all the boxes and even more!
On the cover page 44-45. Richly-toned and locally-made American walnut cabinetry, a mix of handsome natural stone countertops, and mixed metal finishes punctuate and tailor the space.
The kids weren’t buying into the move. Moving from the home they grew up in wasn’t going to be easy. But once they moved in…attitudes changed quickly. Bill Kemp, of Kemp Signature Homes, Kathleen Grim of Srote & Co and Darryl Labruyere founder of D.L. Design had designed and built their parents’ dream home. Built on a two acre lot with room to run, a pool and a barn to explore, what more could a family ask for (pages 28-35)?
Harry Freeman Jr. of Freeman Homes, Paul Fendler of Fendler + Associates and Carrie McLean, of Carrie McLean Design faced an entirely different challenge— their family dreamed of a new home but couldn’t part with the pastoral piece of land their existing home resided on…so they knocked it down! The result—their immediate family's memories were preserved and new family memories with aunts, uncles and cousins blossomed in the wellthought-out spaces throughout their new home (pages 18-27).
Entertaining and making memories with family and friends in our homes has always been a highlight and an important part of family life. Sharing those memories in a highly functional and beautiful new kitchen can kick up those warm and fuzzy feelings tenfold! If it’s time to make your dream kitchen a reality, check out our 2026 Kitchens of the Year (pages 37-48). Before you know it you’ll be planning your next get together!
We are proud to be kicking off the new year with this super gorgeous and inspirational issue.
Kim Dillon, Emily Followill, Tim Furlong, Rob Grimm, Miranda Kimberlin, Anne Matheis, Collin Miller, Alise O’Brien, Mary Lou Olson, Karen Palmer, Photography by Li, Seppi Reda, Julie Soefer, Michael Thomas, Laura Visioni
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in Style Cooking
Add some interest to your kitchen with the use of unique statement appliances.
By Lily Stassi
True Residential olive dual zone wine column, available at Slyman Bros Appliances, AUTCOhome appliances, Authorized Aplliances and Callier & Thomson.
Demi compact fully automatic espresso machine by Terra Kafe, available at Nordstrom.
True Residential bluestone refrigerator and wine cooler, available at Slyman Bros Appliances, AUTCOhome Appliances, Authorized Appliances and Callier & Thompson.
KitchenAid® Bowl-Lift stand mixer, available at Williams-Sonoma.
Left: Ratio coffee maker with glass carafe, available at Williams Sonoma.
Right: Smeg sparkling water maker, available at Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel.
Le Creuset Crock signature enameled cast iron cookware, available at Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel.
AGA Elise Series free-standing induction range with brass accents in stone blue, available at Slyman Bros Appliances, Ferguson Home, Authorized Appliances, CBennett Premium Building Supplies and AUTCOhome Appliances.
Simplex Buckingham No 1 by Newey & Bloomer copper rapid boil tea kettle, available at WilliamsSonoma.
Smeg retro-style citrus juicer, available at West Elm.
Smeg contemporary kitchen scale, available at West Elm.
Meyda Tiffany pot rack, available at Ferguson Home.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR KITCHEN
Chris Slyman,
Third generation president of Slyman Bros appliances, explains the types of kitchen appliances and how to choose what is right for your home.
Edited by Lily Stassi
Photography courtesy of Slyman Bros Appliances
Portrait Photography by Michael Thomas
There are countless styles, finishes, sizes and functions of appliances to choose from when renovating or building a new kitchen, but it doesn’t have to be as complicated as it may feel. Chris Slyman gave us the rundown of what’s out there, and what Slyman Bros can do to make this process as seamless as possible!
Appearance and Finishes
Stainless steel kitchen appliances continue to be the dominant finish, Chris says, but the most popular trends right now are in customizable options. In addition to Wolf’s optional hardware finishes to accent the kitchen, they now offer black or white range doors to bring it all together. KitchenAid and Cafe appliances come in several different colors, with the option of changing knob and handle finishes, which have been very popular and are a bit more budget friendly. True offers many standard refrigeration color options as well as custom color matching,
which creates a very unique look tailored for each customer's interior design.
Energy Efficiency
Typically everyone immediately thinks of refrigeration when it comes to energyefficient appliances since they are always running, Chris says. Fridges have come a long way over the last several decades and use 40%-50% less energy than older models. As far as cooking goes, induction cooking is not only the most energy efficient way to cook, but is also fast with easy clean-up.
Smart Appliances
Appliance manufacturers have added more and more smart features to appliances based on consumer feedback.
The connected options offered are convenient for busy lives and are helpful for people with disabilities to remain independent and in their home. In addition to convenience, some refrigerators will alert you when temperatures rise so you don’t risk losing food. And— in taking appliances to another level of smart—some ovens have features that walk you through just about any recipe. It’s incredible, like having a chef right in your own kitchen!
Installation Made Easy
Luckily, Slyman Bros also has your back when it comes to the hardest part—getting the
appliances into your home. Slyman Bros offers next-day delivery, haul-off of old appliances and professional installation in addition to price matching, extended warranties and a Customer Experience team that will be your advocate during the manufacturer's warranty period. They also just opened a new showroom in Columbia, MO to serve the mid-Missouri, Lake of the Ozarks, Columbia and Jefferson City areas as well!
Get Prepared!
Before buying new appliances, make sure to gather model numbers and dimensions of your current appliances so we know exactly
what will be able to fit in your space, especially if you’re replacing. Include the width and height of doorways, staircases and the ceiling. Make a list of features you like and would like to have. Share with your appliance salesperson how you cook, if you entertain, are involved in hunting or sports and are always in need of lots of ice or have busy schedules that require appliances that can save you time. We are here to help! See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
ART in any FORM
A painter turns her distinctive fine artwork into unique area rugs.
By Michelle Mastro
Why limit your fine art collection to the walls? It’s a sentiment that artist, interior designer and art consultant, Faith Berger follows when creating fine art. She paints both large and small scale pieces using her own unique technique, blending modeling paste, graphite, acrylic, collage and more to create a thick, painted texture across her canvases. But she also takes these paintings and transforms them into statement rugs made from New Zealand wool.
“Area rugs are great, but when you think about it, they can also double as art on the floor,” Berger explains. “With them, homeowners don’t have to limit themselves just to their walls for displaying their art collection.”
Her rugs are also versatile in terms of their size. Through her services, clients can select virtually any size rug they need for any room. Standard size rugs available through most big box stores typically only come in one of four sizes and might not fit perfectly in every room. “I love to do large scale pieces but can commission for any situation,” Berger says.
Photography by Rob Grimm
Moving Well.
B erger didn’t start out as an artist, although she studied art in school. She applied her knowledge and interest into a successful art gallery she owned with her mom in Clayton. The gallery carried traditional wall art, along with glass, sculpture and bronze pieces by over 400 different artists, and in its prime, was deemed one of the top 100 art galleries in the country. From 2007 to present, Faith has served as an art consultant, curating art collections for both homes and offices. By 2022, feeling a desire to create her own art, she took the leap into painting. With their vibrant colors and rich textures, her paintings sell year round, but winter is her busiest season for commissioned rugs. When temperatures drop outside, it becomes the ideal time for decking home floors with area rugs. Her wool rugs offer a sense of visual warmth, making rooms feel more inviting and comfortable, in addition to the material benefit of providing anti-slip surfaces for high-traffic walkways as guests and homeowners return home from jaunts out in the snow.
Area rugs also add texture, color and pattern—but Berger’s rugs do this especially since they pull from her paintings that use her distinct layering technique. Even in her
I always want my artwork to complement interior design and décor choices.— Faith
rugs her brushstrokes are discernible to the naked eye, much like in the work of her inspirations. While Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso were some of her favorite classical painters, the bulk of her signature style and technique has been inspired by the countless artists she encountered during her time at the Clayton gallery.
Thus, Berger believes that her textured area rugs provide a great complement to her textured wall art. “I always want my artwork to complement interior design and décor choices,” she says, explaining that with her interior design background, she is familiar with many different styles and aesthetics.
Just like her paintings can transform into rugs, she doesn’t limit how her work might benefit her clients or fellow creatives. She hopes her work can even complement any new work interior designers might be doing and can work alongside and support them. “I can do everything from traditional to modern classical, but I prefer work that borders on contemporary and like to mix maximalism and minimalism looks.” Berger, like her work, is uniquely flexible. See stlouishomesmag.com for more photos and resources.
Top left: Being Positive painting series 1 - 7. Above: Natural Wonder.
Connection & Craftsmanship
The great room’s deeply detailed ceiling features a touch of blue, adding contrast to the custom millwork. A split sectional provides maximum seating for large-scale family entertaining while still feeling open. Gold console tables from Villa & House and bone inlay lamps with patterned pleated shades flank the seating area. Built-in shelving houses porcelain pieces and other cherished family collectibles.
With dreams of designing a new forever home, this St. Louis couple was inspired to preserve all their family memories by building a new house on the same property in place of their old one.
By Jeanne Delathouder
Interior
Home
Archictect Fendler + Associates, Inc.
Photography by Karen Palmer
Design by Carrie McLean Designs
Builder Freeman Homes
pastoral slice of land in Ladue held far too much nostalgia for the homeowners ever to consider moving. Having lived here for more than 20 years while raising their family, it seemed unimaginable to leave behind all those memories. So, they decided to reimagine the property by tearing down their original house and building a new, forever home on the same lot. Custom-designed by builder Harry Freeman Jr., owner of the premier St. Louis company Freeman Homes, the sprawling residence spans over 10,000 square feet of finished living space, including a lavish covered patio and pool area, enabling a fluent indoor/outdoor lifestyle.
“Our goal was to design and build a home that felt both new and familiar,” says Freeman, “one that honored the history of the site while embracing modern livability and craftsmanship. Though it is a completely new build, it feels deeply rooted in its surroundings, blending seamlessly with the classic character of the neighborhood.”
After the architectural plans were complete, the owners also brought in interior designer Carrie McLean to take the reins in creating an aesthetic befitting the home’s bucolic surroundings as well as their tastes and lifestyle. “The couple’s love of blue drove the interior color scheme,” notes McLean. “But it was also important for the exterior to reflect a classic style with traditional charm. The concept of a whitewashed look with lots of texture lent a historic feel to this brand-new home, and paired with green-hued shutters, the whole house offers striking visual appeal against the lush landscaping beyond.”
Freeman’s design focuses on the connection between rooms and between indoor/ outdoor living. A great room of grand proportions includes 14-foot box-beam ceilings, a stone-mantel fireplace and arched built-in bookcases that create balance and symmetry. Expansive 10-foot sliding pocket doors open to the covered patio, creating an effortless transition between
the main living area and the outdoors. “The covered patio is one of the defining features of this home,” the builder notes. “Retractable screens and optional clear panels allow it to transform into a multi-season space, while a fireplace and ceiling-mounted heaters make it just as comfortable in winter as in summer.”
The spectacular outdoor room has become the heart of all the homeowners’ celebrations. Part of a large, close-knit family, the couple regularly hosts aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews for Christmas Mass, holidays and spontaneous gatherings throughout the year. A showcase for entertaining, their home also features custom millwork in nearly every room—and most notably, the dining room’s octagonal ceiling design. “Harry and I collaborated on some of the moldings and stair designs to incorporate a feeling of openness and comfort for entertaining,” says McLean. “There was also an emphasis on making the home feel cozy and elegant— nothing too serious but still emanating a sophisticated vibe amidst a lot of color.”
Opposite page: Awash in high-gloss Calke Green by Farrow & Ball, the adjacent bar area is wrapped in a caning-like wallpaper mirroring the cane detailing on the upper cabinet doors.
A custom artwork from John O’Hara’s “Vinyl” series captures the eye on the back wall. Custom chairs covered in patterned Leah O’Connell fabric add a cozy vibe. The bar features custom brass shelving designed by Tom Theiss of Theiss Plating. This page: The great room boasts luxe Brunschwig & Fils fabric on both the sectional pillows and coordinating stools. The grand foyer welcomes guests with graceful circular arched doors and antique benches upholstered in salmon velvet. Artwork by John O’Hara reinforces the home’s blue color palette.
Opposite page: A custom ceiling design takes the spotlight in the dining room, along with Stroheim’s textured blue floral wallcovering accented with blue trimwork. A Coleen and Company tole chandelier from Metro Lighting illuminates a custom blue scalloped lacquered dining table from Scout Design Studio.
Below: Infused with charm and elegance, the powder room features Schumacher’s textured blue and green leopard wallcovering accented with a Greek Key-bordered cafe curtain.
Right: An arched doorway and custom millwork frame a hallway vignette with a console and an antique mirror.
The designer created luxe polished surfaces by incorporating high-gloss finishes in the dining room, butler’s pantry and sleek bar area. To generate satisfying contrast, she integrated a few antiques into the mix of new furniture, introducing a sense of timelessness through well-worn patinas. Standout pieces include a lovingly restored buffet in the dining room, a pair of Italian coral velvet loveseats in the foyer, several vintage prints throughout the house and antique wooden tea caddies combined with other meaningful accessories.
“ We outfitted several spaces with blue ceilings and implemented custom lighting with the help of Mike Craft from Metro Lighting. We also used lots of wallpaper to create impact and make large areas feel cozier and more cohesive,” notes McLean.
The generously proportioned home showcases custom millwork and finishes throughout, “many of which were inspired by photos the homeowners shared early on in the process,” Freeman adds. “Every element—from cabinetry detailing to ceiling treatments—was hand-built to create a unified, elevated feel.”
Especially designed for connection and entertaining, the kitchen flows naturally and fluently into the great room. Marble counters and backsplashes exude a clean, timeless vibe, complemented by a custom hood that adds a touch of refinement. Effortless connections to a hidden scullery and butler’s pantry behind the scenes emphasize the kitchen’s efficiency and high functionality, making it suitable for large events and gatherings. On the lower level, a golf simulator room flows organically into the bar and lounge spaces, creating a cohesive entertainment hub.
Outdoors, a lavish pool area sits level with the main floor, supported by a custom retaining-wall system that preserves sightlines and maximizes usable space. A coastal-inspired bluestone pool deck features an integrated hot tub that doubles as a water feature, offering both function and beauty. A turf lawn surrounds the pool, providing year-round greenery and visual continuity that connects the outdoor spaces.
The kitchen’s luxurious marble counters and backsplash from Two Rivers Stone lend a clean, timeless vibe along with a custom hood and cabinetry by Wright’s Cabinet Shop. Urban Electrics large blue pendants from Metro Lighting add a stunning highlight to the kitchen island, accented by Made Goods barstools. Papier-Mâché botanicals handmade by Casa Gusto of West Palm Beach guide the eye from the kitchen into the butler’s pantry and dining room beyond.
Top: Painted in Farrow & Ball’s glossy Cooking Apple Green, the sitting area makes a quaint oasis for reading and relaxing. Cowtan & Tout fabrics on the club chairs and ottoman pair with Lee Jofa’s green marble draperies, accented with Stroheim trim.
Left: McLean's inspiration for the bright colors and fun patterns of the laundry room was originally drawn from Mirth Studio's flooring options. The studio, based in Charleston SC, makes hand painted patterns digitally printed on wide plank hardwood. The choice of blue and white diamond then led to blue cabinetry which led to the fun Harlequin blue, green and white floral wallpaper with matching Roman shade fabric. The custom color chandelier by Stray Dog Design takes and makes a spotlight in the space.
Right: The primary bathroom is luxuriously clad in blue and white quatrefoil marble tile flooring and stunning blue marble countertops from Two Rivers Stone. A custom ottoman upholstered in Thibaut fabric mimics the floor design.
Below: Designed for the kids’ sleepovers, a lavish bunk room with four queen beds features custom Chippendale-style carpentry. The primary bedroom (opposite page) is cloaked in Leah O’Connell’s blueand-cream striped botanical grasscloth wallcovering and a serene blue vaulted ceiling overhead. Custom furnishings and draperies exude a calm atmosphere, complemented by prints and textures, and a stunning Niermann Weeks gold chandelier from Metro Lighting crowns the lofty space.
Equivalently planned and meticulously designed, the private spaces feature a spacious bunk room wrapped in blue-and-green striped wallpaper and housing four queen-size beds. A custom canopy valance offers a fun escape during sleepovers with the nieces and nephews. In the primary bedroom, tranquility reigns, with a light-blue ceiling that creates a sense of serenity and coziness. Amidst a thoughtful layering of refined prints and textures, the space is crowned with a stunning gold chandelier. An adjacent sitting area, cloaked in glossy apple green, offers a quaint reading hub surrounded by antique prints, bone-inlaid demilune tables and a clever custom ottoman with pull-out drink trays at each end.
“I love how much there is to talk about when you first see this home,” says McLean. “Each room generates excitement with its special charms— and the homeowners were dream clients. We were all on the same page in creating the fun, functional and elegant home they wanted.”
Architect Paul Fendler expresses his agreement saying, "It was a great collaborative effort between architect, designer and contractor that resulted in a beautiful home for the owners and their family. Everyone was so easy and pleasant to work with throughout the whole process."
“ What I love most about this home is how inviting and livable it feels despite its scale,” adds Freeman. “Every room has intention, and nothing feels overdone or purely for show. It is a family home designed to be enjoyed—whether hosting a big holiday gathering or relaxing on a quiet night by the fire. Seeing this family fill the spaces with people they love makes it even more rewarding to know we helped create it.”
See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.
Sold on the SETTING
The heart of the house is the kitchen, which flows into the breakfast room and then the hearth room,” says builder Bill Kemp. “It’s a large area with great flow and great for entertaining.
t was the lot that sold them. A Chesterfield couple with children still at home had been thinking of building a custom home when the wife happened across a site in Town and Country. Once part of an equestrian estate, the lot’s unusually large two acres held many mature trees in a desirable area closer to the children’s schools. And the estate’s old horse barn, although in rough shape, had massive potential. “I just kept driving by the location and could not stop thinking that this was meant to be.” The wife said. “We thought this could be the perfect property for us.”
Kemp Signature Homes owned the property with a new home planned for the lot. “Having the two acres really allowed them to do a lot with the footprint of the new home,” says builder Bill Kemp,
Designer Kathleen Grim worked alongside Detailed Designs by Denise and Wright's Cabinet Shop to create a warm and spacious kitchen apt for dailty life and entertaining. Double islands in the kitchen were a top priority for the new design, and white oak cabinetry rich in detailings warms the coolness of the white kitchen.
A gorgeous lot’s many attributes convince a family this is the place to build their dream home.
By Kim Hill
Photography Miranda Kimberlin
Interior
Design Srote &
Architect D.L. Design
Co
Architects
Builder Kemp Signature Homes
owner of Kemp Signature Homes. “They also wanted expansive outdoor spaces with a pool, and then with the barn on top of that, it’s a really unique lot.”
The existing home was removed, and the couple began meeting with Bill to plan their dream home. Architect Darryl Labruyere, founder of D.L. Design, had designed a floor plan for Kemp with a first-floor primary suite, one of the couple’s must-haves. “We started with that plan, and it just evolved to meet their needs,” says Bill.
For these homeowners, the original plans were expanded to allow for double islands in the kitchen, an amenity the family enjoys at their lake house. “Having that design is just so great for entertaining, and it gives you so much space to work with for prepping and cooking,” says the wife.
Whenever you find a coffee table that’s not oval, not round, not square, it’s just so unique,” designer Kathleen Grim says of the statement table in the great room. “It has the consistent color palette to help support a room that’s super comfortable and very appealing, yet quite elegant because of the ceiling treatment and the light fixture.
Right: A round coffee table in a mix of textures sets the tone in the hearth room. “It complements all of the soft textures on the sectional,” says designer Kathleen Grim. “And we have all these shapes in the room, from the L-shaped sectional to the triangles in the vault of the ceiling and a rectangular square on the fireplace mantel. Anchoring the space with a circle gives enough complexity to make the room a little more interesting.”
Opposite page top: Sliding patio doors open wide, beckoning family members and guests to the outdoor room, which the homeowners enjoy in all four seasons. “With the heaters in the ceiling and the retractable screens that can be closed in winter, you can use the outdoor room as part of the interior,” says builder Bill Kemp. Designer Kathleen Grim appointed the space with the dining table and chairs and plenty of comfortable seating for lounging.
“The heart of the house is the kitchen which flows into the breakfast room and then the hearth room,” says Bill. “It’s a large area with great flow and great for entertaining.”
The couple also wanted retracting doors, another feature of their lake home, so a 5-panel sliding door was installed between the hearth room and outdoor room. The panels retract into themselves, making the outdoor room a part of the living space nearly year-round. “It really makes for indoor/outdoor living and kind of makes it feel like California,” says the wife.
An amenity the couple hadn’t previously enjoyed was a golf simulator, so plans were made for that space in the lower level. “We developed that with steps down to it, and that also lent itself to the bar design in the lower level, which is just massive,” says Bill.
“Cory Lamp (of Lamp Wine Cellars) did the racking design for the wine cellar, which is just a great focal point of the entire lower level.”
The couple had already renovated their current home completely in the past and loved it, but still really wanted a first floor primary bedroom now that their kids were getting older. Having already considered the possibility of finding their true dream home, the wife had some design ideas of her own ready to start the transition.
Cory Lamp of Lamp Wine Cellars designed the racking system for the wine cellar, what builder Bill Kemp calls the “focal point of the entire lower level.” Benjamin Moore’s French Beret bathes the cabinetry in a deep gray verging on black, while the expansive bar is covered with Vadara Sereno Gold, a quartz with delicate gray and taupe veining.
A fluting detail in the custom cabinetry was carried throughout the home for consistency, including this built-in butler’s pantry.
“I love interior design, but I certainly didn’t want to miss anything in the construction phase and felt I could use a high level of expertise for the interiors to bounce ideas off of,” she says. One of her friends had worked with Kathleen Grim, Allied ASID, an interior designer with Srote & Co. “My friend has one of the most beautiful homes I’ve ever seen, and I felt really comfortable knowing Kathleen was the right person for me as well,” says the wife.
K athleen says the wife came to their initial meetings armed with a clear idea of what she liked and what she wanted in the end result. “Her inspiration photos all had a very consistent look—clean lined but with a modern take on tradition,” says Kathleen. “For me, it’s just helping execute that and build a really beautiful, sophisticated home."
Above: “The wall paneling can be considered super traditional, but we have the more modern shape of the table, an interesting light fixture and the curve to the buffet table,” designer Kathleen Grim says of the dining room’s dynamic. “Because the energy between the modern and traditional is already interesting, we don’t need to overdo the room with tons of color or a lot of other things going on. Just let it have the right amount of sophistication without being too fussy.”
Left: Honeysuckle and Tulip wallpaper in slate blue set the color palette in the laundry room, where Benjamin Moore’s Boothbay Gray is a sophisticated hue on the cabinetry. Flooring is hard-working porcelain tile. “Doing a marble-look tile in a checkerboard pattern adds a little more elegance to the space and maybe a bit of a surprise from the rest of the home,” says designer Kathleen Grim. “In a good way.”
The designer says the modern take on tradition is executed in this home with a consistent color palette of whites, creams and notes of blue but layered with a mixture of textures. In the kitchen, for example, the sleek white cabinetry and white quartz countertops are warmed with a white oak island featuring reeding on the side and bar stools with woven backs. The wood breakfast table also features a fluted edge. A stucco range hood adds yet another layer of texture.
K athleen carried the reeding effect into the butler’s pantry cabinetry and into the primary bathroom, where the design element adds important definition. “In the primary bath, the countertops, floors and shower walls are all marble, and sometimes it’s hard to make that feel cozy and warm,” says Kathleen. “I feel we did that here with the textured window treatments, the color of the white oak cabinetry, and having the reeding detail on the cabinet drawers. Along with the curve of the little bench, these give it some softness and texture and really balance the coolness of the tile.” The wife says the reeding details are among her favorite elements in the home as well, with the double islands in the
kitchen as a close second.
“I t’s hard to pick one space as our favorite, but I would have to say the outdoor screened room is our favorite. We spend a lot of time out here, especially in the fall,” says the wife. “When it’s cooler, we turn on the heaters and just look out at all the trees changing colors, and the view is just so pretty. We love that room.”
Such joy and happiness permeate the entire family’s experience in their new home. “It took a bit for our kids to get used to the idea that we’d be moving away from their childhood home in Chesterfield,” says the wife. “But once we moved in here, it just immediately felt like home to us.”
The setting created the foundation to make that possible. “We were given such a beautiful lot to take advantage of,” says Kathleen. “So much of what makes the spaces a success has to do with the lot, the architecture, the way the home is positioned on the lot and the layout. We were able to put the icing on the cake with the furnishings and finishes.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources and additional photos.
Above: Locating the primary bedroom on the main level was a must for the homeowners. Designer Kathleen Grim helps bring the outdoors in with wood beams, woven wood Roman shades, a textural light fixture and wood nightstands and a bench. “They also warm the space and keep it sophisticated at the same time,” says Kathleen.
Opposite page: The reeded detail on the white oak cabinets is one of the wife’s favorite elements of the home’s aesthetic. “It’s such a fun, unique detail,” she says. Designer Kathleen Grim says the detailing, the woven window treatments, and the curve of the bench help soften and balance the coolness of the room’s marble flooring, countertops and shower walls.
KITCHENS 2026
Meet our esteemed panel of Kitchens of the Year judges.
by Colin Miller/ Strauss Peyton
Kitchens can be functional, beautiful, tailored to one’s needs…or all of the above.
This year’s Kitchens of the Year winners check all the boxes and even more!
Edited by Lily Stassi
Jennifer Rapp, JCR Design Group
Jenny has been involved in the Saint Louis interior design community for over 20 years. In 2011, she founded JCR Design Group, which specializes in high-end custom interiors, renovations, kitchen and bath design and new construction collaboration. Jenny has served on the Board of Directors for The Woman’s Exchange of St. Louis since 1998 and the Board of Directors for the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park since 2017.
Dick Busch
Dick began his architectural career in 1970 at the age of 24. His 34 years of practical experience together with his artistic talents provide a solid base for all the custom designs he’s produced for the numerous clients over the years. As a Registered Architect, Dick has worked with the most established and successful builders and developers in the area, winning several awards along the way.
Denise Deen of Detailed Designs by Denise, CKBD
Denise is a Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer with a B.S. in Interior Design from SIU Carbondale. With more than 35 years of experience in new construction and remodeling, she works closely with clients to create unique, organized, and functional spaces that reflect their personal style and make daily life more enjoyable. Her goal is to make the entire design process simple, fun, and inspiring—resulting in a perfect place to gather, grow and enjoy family.
Photography
KITCHENS
Platinum Winner
400+ square feet
Castle Design and Stone Hall Cabinetry
Photography by Alise O’Brien Photography.
For the homeowners who love to entertain their large family and many friends, having a home that could refresh the layout for modern life while keeping in tune with its classic tradition was essential. The project was guided by a primary objective: to reimagine the layout as tailored, well-appointed light-filled and equipped for hosting. The previously large kitchen was transformed into two spaces: a smaller, more functional kitchen and a handsome barrel-vaulted butler’s pantry, to better accommodate the client’s use of space. Rich in personality and poise, this kitchen embodies refined classics and livable comfort that doubles as the perfect backdrop to family memories. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Why the judges love it:
Every detail of this kitchen was distinctively well thought out and special. The result was an elegant, tasteful and timeless space that made great use of the large floor plan. Favorite features include the scullery, barrel vaulted ceiling and the detailed woodwork.
400+ square feet
KH Interiors Gold Winner
The original design of this kitchen was not up to its full potential. After a full remodel of the layout, the room became a space full of storage and seamless functionality. As frequent entertainers, the homeowners emphasized their desire for a full coffee bar, which now features a sink and under-cabinet refrigerator. The focal point of the room is the range wall featuring an arched alcove matching one in the adjacent living room. With the client’s favorite color being green, the island and coffee bar were painted in her favorite shade, and the remaining cabinets stained to mimic the color of bark to make the palette feel “organic.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Why the judges love it:
This room underwent a very impressive transformation. The new layout shows a very thoughtful use of space to fit the needs of the homeowner, with the coffee bar being the most cozy and convenient feature.
Photography by Anne Matheis.
Honorable Mention
250-350 square feet
Walnut Lily
This inviting kitchen emphasizes balance, symmetry and classical elements. A textured gloss cream backsplash with a herringbone pattern accent contrasts warm tones in the walnut wood and quartzite island and brass hardware. The primary objective and challenge of this renovation was to brighten and balance the room and center the island to the range and to the hearth area, maximize storage and provide an overall inviting feel for entertaining family and guests. Now the homeowners can admire their elegant, inviting and spacious kitchen while sipping coffee in the sunlight. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Why the judges love it:
This kitchen had a stunning before and after transition—with the result being a bright and welcoming heart of the home. Boasting a soft and warm color palette with natural wood and tile textures, this kitchen was too special to not have a place on the roster.
Photography by Photography by Li.
Why the judges love
it:
This kitchen stood out among the rest in its category—with high ceilings, transom windows, functional bar area and a definitively masculine look, this space was tailored perfectly to its owners’ style and entertainment needs. “Handsome” was a word that simply could not stay out of the judging discussion.
Castle Design and Barron Construction Platinum Winner 250-350 square feet
Striking a balance between contemporary tidiness and timeless details, this handsome 100-year-old residence sought to add rhythm and sophistication to the first-floor layout. For this father-and-sons trio, having a home that put entertaining at the focal point and incorporated their love of music was essential when reimagining this historical home. Richlytoned and locally-made American walnut cabinetry, a mix of handsome natural stone countertops, and mixed metal finishes punctuate and tailor the space. This home renovation did not forgo the home’s original sensibility; a perfect duet between the old and the new, this masculine and sophisticated kitchen hits all the right notes. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Photography by Alise O’Brien Photography.
250-350 square feet
Le Coeur Design Gold Winner
Located in St. Louis’s historic Shaw neighborhood, this “Shaw Chic” kitchen is a seamless blend of modern luxury and everyday functionality. Custom cherry cabinetry, meticulously grain-matched in a horizontal direction, creates warmth and visual continuity. Full-slab Italian Calacatta Paonazzo marble defines the countertops and backsplash, with the island crafted as a butterfly match of two slabs. Other thoughtful details include terrazzo-inspired heated floors, a marbletopped shoe bench at the back door and a full-height cherry bookshelf to hold cookbooks. This thoughtfully crafted space that elevates cooking, gathering and everyday living with refined design, advanced technology and timeless materials. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Why the judges love it:
The layout of this kitchen was very highly regarded—with ovens on either side of the range and a sink in close proximity, an avid cook or baker could work seamlessly. The window seat and shoe shelf were a unique touch, while the artful Calacatta marble was the cherry on top.
Photography by Anne Matheis.
150-250 square feet
Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath Gold Winner
This kitchen reimagining strikes the perfect balance of elegance, function and architectural refinement. Enlarged windows flood the room with natural light, while a widened doorway extends a gracious connection to the dining room, where botanical wallpaper frames the view like a living mural, drawing nature indoors. The cooking hearth, defined by a sculptural plaster hood, is flanked by veined marble shelving and brass sconces that lend the space a gallery-like quality. Honed marble surfaces provide a sense of quiet luxury, grounding the design in natural beauty. Infused with light, enhanced in flow and enriched by its materials, this kitchen is more than a place to cook—it is the home’s gracious heart. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Why the judges love it:
Soft greens and brass hardware and lighting create a light and airy feel in the room, while the large island and intentional addition of cabinets create a perfectly functional space.
Photography by Photography by Li.
KITCHENS
Less than 150 square feet
Castle Design and Alspaugh Kitchen and Bath Platinum Winner
Photography by Alise O’Brien Photography.
Perched on the 10th floor of a high-rise in Clayton, just walking distance from some of St. Louis’s finest dining spots, this recently renovated apartment lives at the intersections of high design and culinary culture. Optimizing the layout and implementing refined design were at the forefront of this kitchen renovation where the design team sought to open up the previously dark and utilitarian galley kitchen into a space for state-of-the-art cooking and exceptional entertaining. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
Why the judges love it:
Everything about the space is creative and intentional, the lighting, backsplash and apron being its highlights. Despite its size, this 145-square-foot kitchen still has ample counter space and cabinet storage while being elegant and comfortable.
Orchid BASICS
Learn how to keep your orchids healthy and producing flowers for years to come.
By Lily Stassi
Orchids are a beloved indoor plant that can make quite the statement when in full bloom, though it can seem difficult to get them flowering again after the first round of flowers. Taking proper care of a tropical flower may seem intimidating, but all orchids require are a little extra attention and learned intuition! There are two primary factors to keeping an orchid healthy: sunlight levels and watering. Orchids need lots of direct sunlight—as much as they can take without drying up, which should never be a problem if they are getting adequate water. Alternatively,
the most common mistake with household orchid care is overwatering, which typically is only a problem when they aren't getting adequate sunlight to help that extra water evaporate. It’s all about balance here—keep your orchid watered consistently and in a windowsill that gets at least 1-4 hours of sunlight per day.
The trickiest part of caring for your orchid is watering it. If you’ve heard the trick of watering your orchid with ice cubes, then you might have also heard the controversy about it, too. The answer to this debate is
that it’s fine, but not the best option. The idea of using ice cubes is that the orchid will essentially be self watering—the ice cubes will melt slowly and give the orchid just enough water to grow without drowning it and creating root rot. This may work for some plant owners who struggle with regular watering and live in a less sunny environment. Many people have success with this method, so it’s not a bad option by any means!
On the other hand, if your orchid is getting enough direct sun, the ice cubes are likely going to melt and evaporate quickly or not provide enough water to the full length of the root system. In a warmer, sunnier environment, the best way to water your orchid is to fully soak the roots. Run water through the pot until water is flowing from the drainage holes and all of the soil media is saturated. The direct sunlight will eventually evaporate any extra water, at which point you will want to repeat the watering stage again. You can determine the dampness of the soil when a wooden stake or skewer inserted into the potting mix comes out almost dry. It’s also a good idea to get a sense of the heft of the plant when it is saturated versus dry!
If you feel that your orchid is still struggling to thrive, then you may want to look into other factors like the type or soil media or pot material and size. There are lots of great resources online from botanical organizations that can provide more tips. If your orchid stops producing flowers, don’t feel bad! This tropical plant may be finicky but she has the potential to thrive with just a little extra time and care.
The Missouri Botanical Garden's annual Orchid Show is the once-a-year opportunity for guests to enjoy the Garden's vast orchid collection.
By Jessika Eidson
Orchid Show
Every year, the Garden transforms the Emerson Conservatory into a breathtaking display of tropical orchids from around the globe.
The Orchid Show features hundreds of flowering orchids from a collection of over 5,000 individual plants and 700 unique species, nearly one in ten of which are threatened or endangered. Guests who visit the show more than once can see new species on display as the Garden adds orchids as they bloom. Throughout the rest of the year, the collection is
kept in the Garden's greenhouses to be cared for by horticulture staff.
The annual Orchid Show is open during daytime admission from January 31 to March 1 and is included in Garden admission.
Additionally, guests 21+ can experience the Garden's Orchid Show transformed after dark with dramatic lighting, live music and samples from local breweries, wineries and distilleries. Orchid Nights run 6–8 p.m. on February 5 and February 19.
When
Where
Show
What's in BLOOM
The Orchids are the stars of the show, but they are not the only exotic plants on display during this chilly season. Guests can escape into the Climatron's tropical atmosphere, stroll through the cacti in the Schoenberg Arid House and enjoy the fresh citrus scents of the Linnean House orangery.
Cabinetry Design by Stone Hall Cabinetry and Caroline Kerckhoff / Photography by Alise O’Brien
NATURAL STONE • QUARTZ • PORCELAIN
Writing a
New Story
Incorporating rustic features into contemporary design was the goal for this kitchen remodel.
By Catherine McCoy
Photography by Keith and Judi Gegg
Interior Design by Emily Castle
Woodworking/Cabinetry by Gegg Design & Cabinetry and Lafferty Cabinets
Architecture By Gunn & Smith Architects
Every home tells a story, and for these homeowners, each chapter has been defined by thoughtful design and transformation. They were no stranger to home design, having undergone several new builds and remodels through the years.
“With each of our remodels, we’ve leaned towards a more contemporary look, but because our property is in a pastoral area, we brought in some rustic features,” she said.
The owners had worked with Keith Gegg, owner of Gegg Design & Cabinetry, for remodels a few years prior, and he had a good sense of what they preferred. Gegg, along with co-designer Emily Castle, was able to carry forth the homeowners’ style into a new setting, while adding fresh elements to write a new story for the family. “We carried over the custom steel shelves in their last kitchen, as well as Rift White Oak,” said Gegg. “The last kitchen was all Rift White Oak, but to keep this space brighter, the Rift Oak was used only for the island and small hood trim detail,” explains Gegg.
The kitchen’s open floor plan and high ceilings created an airy, welcoming design, though it required distinctions to give each zone its respective identity. To create definition for these spaces, Gegg worked with Gunn & Smith Architects to incorporate ceiling details over the kitchen and dining area. The team added coffers around the perimeter and between the dining and kitchen spaces to scale
down the cabinetry’s height and add dimension to the recess lighting.
One of Gegg’s signature elements is creating unique kitchen hoods, “It is rare that we repeat hoods in different kitchen designs,” he said. Castle selected a backsplash to contrast the hood, which was then complemented with Mick DeGiulio lighting on either side of the hood, unifying the space into one cohesive element. The island was intentionally designed with seating on the back side, as to not interfere with flow to the refrigeration. The seating was also elevated to conceal the working counters from the living space, and the counters were finished with a waterfall. While simple in final form, the complexities of its design were integral in creating a clean look without disrupting the rest of the room’s continuity and function.
The finest home designs come from maintaining the owner’s style while venturing into new territories. As a veteran in home design, this homeowner encourages new home buyers and renovators to do their homework. “Magazines are great,” the homeowner says, “but they don’t show if a design team’s direction is too rigid to adapt to your home. You have to know what is comfortable for you and your family, and guide the process accordingly.” With the help of a good team collaborating and exploring various design options, homeowners can take the lead in creating a space that is comfortable and inspiring to live in. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
FAMILY
HISTORY
Sentimental value and tasteful design blend seamlessly in this home’s charming remodel.
By Maya Brenningmeyer
Influenced by the refined country design of their family’s homes, a Eureka couple was looking to elevate their space to reflect an elegant European farmhouse aesthetic. “Our original intent was to focus on the kitchen area, but that spilled over into other spaces on the main level because we wanted to make sure there was strong cohesion throughout,” says the homeowners. With a clear vision for what they wanted, their next step was to find the right designer to achieve their vision.
“ These clients were referred to me by a
previous client I had worked with,” says Candice Wideman of Youtopia Designs. “They wanted their home to feel more personal, a true reflection of who they are and giving each space its own story to tell.” The project tackled three major spaces, the hearth room, the office and the kitchen. Since refinement was the primary goal, the process focused on enhancing the existing spaces rather than undertaking a constructionheavy remodel. “The homeowners’ taste was a little different from what I’m typically hired
Photography by Alise O’Brien
Interior Design by Youtopia Designs
It wasn’t just about creating beautiful rooms; it was about designing a home that feels deeply connected to the people who live in it.
— Candice
for, and that made it especially exciting,” Candice continues. “They loved color, pattern and texture, and that openness allowed the design to evolve in such a creative and personal way.”
In the hearth room, new furnishings, wallcoverings, custom draperies and layers of texture bring personality to the space. A cozy sectional, patterned rug and green grass cloth and brown leathery wallpaper complement the room’s stone fireplace, and decorative wood beams the homeowners installed prior to the remodel stretch across the ceiling. “The wallpaper and furnishings brought a whole new feel which really elevated the formality of the space,” the homeowners mention. This sense of warmth was carried into the kitchen, where a custom stone hood acts as the room’s focal point and seamlessly blends with the adjoining hearth room’s fireplace. The wooden details at the bottom of the hood and in the hearth room’s beams have an extra sentimental touch as they came from the homeowner’s grandfather’s barn.
The biggest change was in the office/library. “The built-in desk, cabinets and bookshelves did
a lot to enhance storage and organization,” says the homeowner. “The ability to have some things tucked away and hidden creates a more inviting space as well.” Moody blue cabinetry and walls ground the room, and a custom mural hangs between two built-in bookshelves. The homeowners gave the designers full freedom to reimagine the space, and the team got creative with layers of lighting and fun textures.
O verall, both Candice and the homeowners are absolutely delighted with how the project turned out. “Looking back on this project, what stands out most is how much heart went into every decision,” says Candice. “It wasn’t just about creating beautiful rooms; it was about designing a home that feels deeply connected to the people who live in it.” The homeowners are looking forward to hosting family events in their newly renovated space and couldn’t be happier with their decision to work with Youtopia Designs. “Candice and the team took the time to appreciate the look and feel that we were hoping to achieve; they did a great job helping us translate our vision.” See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
Creating beautiful rooms with cohesive styles is the key to making your home comfortable, fashionable and inviting.
For over twenty years Chris has worked as a designer for Alspaugh Kitchen & Bath with the goal of creating highly functional, beautiful spaces based upon her clients' personal needs. She brings her educational background in interior design to the kitchen and bath industry, providing a valuable and comprehensive perspective. Chris' passion for design drives her to explore current trends, keeping abreast of the latest innovations to educate and inspire her. Chris builds relationships with her clients, providing excellent customer service from the initial design process through installation.
Alise O’Brien Photography
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
The Porch in Wildwood
16957 Manchester Road, Wildwood, MO 63040 theporchwildwood.com • 636-273-3745
A visit to The Porch offers more than beautiful décor, it provides a guided design experience from the first stages of construction to the final finishing touch. Pictured here, Owner Jan Coffman and Nicole Little bring vision, expertise, and thoughtful detail to every mid-build project they guide. From architectural selections to furniture installation, they ensure each phase is intentional and cohesive. Whether you're planning a remodel, navigating new-build choices, or completing a room, The Porch is here to bring your vision to life, beautifully and confidently.
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
Design
@jessiedmiller | jessiedmiller.com | 314-494-1398
Jessie D. Miller Interior Design offers full-service, concept-to-completion interior design for clients who want something far beyond the typical St. Louis aesthetic. With a fashion-forward perspective and an editorial eye for detail, I create homes that are richly layered, highly customized, and intentionally curated from the architectural foundation to the final accessory.
My process is designed for clients who value expert guidance, trust in a cohesive creative vision, and appreciate the ease of having every detail thoughtfully managed—from floor plans and custom furnishings to finishes, art, and styling.
The result is a space that feels elevated, expressive, and unmistakably unique—refreshingly unlike the majority of most Midwestern designed homes. Jessie D. Miller Interior
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
KH Interiors, LLC
Krista Howard, Allied ASID khinteriorsstl.com • 314-517-5502
KH Interiors, is an award winning design-remodel collaborative. We create interiors that are comfortably classic, rich and relaxed. Interiors that reflect your spirit and give you a place to call home. It begins with listening to our clients about their dreams of how they see themselves in their surroundings. We share how design can make their home flow more beautifully and give meaning to their space. Our team then gets to work instinctively to recreate the home they once knew into a haven that reflects their true essence.
At KH Interiors, we ensure that every detail, every decision, and every moment is meaningful, intentional and gorgeous!
Liston Design Build
(636) 940-9417 listondesignbuild.com
Liston Design Build’s team of award-winning designers is built on trust and 40 years of industry experience to offer peace of mind for our remodeling clients and their families through a steadfast commitment to concierge service. From initial consult through the design phase and product selection to completion, our team will eliminate the uncertainty of the remodeling process by listening to your vision and understanding your lifestyle to create a space that improves the functionality of your home and perfectly reflects your personality. Reach out to us today to see what’s possible.
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
Three French Hens
Rae Sutton
636-458-8033 / threefrenchhenswildwood.com
Three French Hens is St. Louis’s most beautiful furniture store! With Rae Sutton as lead designer, our 10,000 sq.ft. showroom is always changing and evolving. You’ll rarely find the same thing twice. Rugs, lighting, decor, fabrics, art, custom furniture, and more can be found at Three French Hens with our fun and brilliant designers with 21 years of experience ready to pull it all together. If it’s not at our store we can surely order you a custom piece to make your interior dreams come true. In-store or at home, our design services are available for projects from space planning to custom furniture to accessory overhauls.
DESIGNERS IN DEMAND
Modern Kitchens & Baths
14381 Manchester Rd., Manchester, MO 63011 636-394-3655 / modernkitchensandbaths.com
Established in 1950, Modern Kitchens and Baths serves as the premier showroom for kitchen and bath remodeling products. Browse through our showroom in Manchester to see premium remodeling products in the latest designs and with innovative features. We offer an impressive selection of products that includes cabinets, countertops, fixtures, and flooring, and continuously update our product offerings. At Modern Kitchens & Baths, we know that remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is an exciting investment—but it can also come with plenty of questions. Whether you’re upgrading your countertops, transforming your kitchen or completely renovating your bathroom, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free. Plus we can work within your budget big or small!
Bold & Beautiful
Whether as an attention grabber or a color match, there are many ways to incorporate statement appliances into your kitchen design to fit whatever style you're going for.
Edited by Lily Stassi
Atelier Davis
The designer on this project was inspired to use a red stove in this project due to her love of using bold color in her designs. Knowing that red is an auspicious color in Chinese culture, she aimed to honor that heritage. Red was again used in a few other areas in the home—such as the backs of dining chairs and pillows to tie it all together.
Photography by Emily Followill.
Wise Design
Wise Design helped transform a 100-squarefoot kitchen from its 1960s renovation to a period appropriate design with modern conveniences. Changes included a new opening from the dining room to the kitchen as well as a stunning handmade tile (inspired by an AI-generated image for a life imitating art moment) by Tempest Tileworks. Custom cabinetry including vent holes, paneling for appliances, beadboard and peg rails by George Ramos Woodworking. Photography by Seppi Reda.
Creative Tonic Design
After a fire wiped out the client’s beloved French-inspired kitchen, the designers brought it back in vivid color as a peacock-blue and brass paradise, topped with five gobstopper-style pendants. From the shimmering bistro tile climbing counter to ceiling, and the brass-trimmed custom open shelves and vent hood, to the gleaming gold sinks, every detail was designed to bring joy, with a little French inspiration, back from the ashes! Photography by Julie Soefer.
Erin Myers Design
This newly remodeled kitchen blends timeless craftsmanship with breezy indoor–outdoor living. At its heart is a classic farmhouse sink set beneath a retractable window and a statement French-inspired range in a blue gray, accented with gleaming brass, that anchors the room with refined presence. The result is a kitchen that feels equally suited for everyday family life and effortless entertaining: classic, inviting and beautifully attuned to its surroundings. Photography by Laura Visioni.
Southern Inspirations
This kitchen is located in a Swedish inspired shotgunstyle home. The warm tones of the natural light dedicated the color choices, leading to the choice of a painted range hood to match the wood of the island. Finally, the gas stove was chosen to blend in with the cabinetry so that it did not take away from the antique look of the kitchen. Photography by Tim Furlong.
Like a Leaf on the Water
Places to go, things to do and see and people who are leaving their mark on the world of style.
By Lily Stassi
by Kim Dillon
Sculptural Design by Heatherwick Studio
Landscape Design by MNLA
After the destruction of the original Pier 54 on the Hudson River due to hurricane Sandy, the land and its remaining wreckage were purchased with a new life in mind. This space would become Little Island, a public park with an emphasis on art, nature and community, while still carefully preserving the existing ecosystem in the waters below.
Thus began the collaboration between UK-based Heatherwick Studio and landscape design group MNLA to create a new pier that would be both iconic and sustainable. Left from the hurricane were the posts and concrete piles from the old Pier 54, which had come to serve as a habitat for native aquatic life. The goal was to create something new and exciting without disturbing these existing structures and wildlife.
Photography
Little Island, an architectural pier located in Hudson River Park, serves as a space for art, nature and community.
The solution was to draw inspiration from these structures, rather than trying to remove or add onto them. Heatherwick Studio conceptualized a design for a functional architectural structure consisting of similar concrete piles that would rise out of the Hudson River alongside the wood posts, widen and meet to make a rolling topography primed for the creation of a garden and community space. The entire pier consists of 132 of these “tulip pot” structures.
A s for the landscaping, MNLA drew inspiration from the concept of “a leaf floating on water”—something fluid and undulating.
An array of plants was chosen to provide exciting and surprising visual interest throughout the entire year. 35 species of trees, 65 species of shrubs and 270 varieties of grasses, perennials, vines and bulbs thrive in every through and curve of Little Island, many being chosen with the health of the native environment in mind. Winding pathways make the park ideal for the viewing and enjoyment of these features as well as the river and city skyline.
Little Island is now a place for leisure, reflection and community. The 2.4 acre island hosts free educational programs and performances throughout the year, and boasts bike paths, scenic overlooks, a playground, an amphitheater and more.
Audio tours are available and encouraged to learn about the neighborhood’s rich historical background.
Though the old Pier 54’s physical mantle of history and culture was damaged by nature, Little Island provides new life and opportunity for this history and culture to continue manifesting and evolving. The old posts and concrete piles peppering the river below the island serve as a reminder of the new pier’s roots—a reminder of the power of community and art. See stlouishomesmag.com for resources.
2591 MO-141, Fenton, MO 63026 636-343-2201 www.rexriegerlandscaping.com
S. Hwy 141, Fenton, MO 63026 636-343-2201 www.rexriegerlandscaping.com
CLASSIC TIMELESS LOOK
See what local kitchen designers think about MESH CABINET DOORS: are they a sophisticated classic or a trendy phase?
Edited by Lily Stassi
Mary Signorelli, Le Coeur Design
Absolute classic but only when done in a home bar. It’s a sophisticated way to display your bar and glassware. And best when made out of brass.
Wendy Kuhn, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath
Can I say they are classic and a craze? They are classic in the fact that mesh inserts have been around the whole 20 years I have been designing kitchens, but they swell in and out of popularity. They currently are on a “craze” upswing in popularity and add great texture to your cabinetry layout. You can have a different impact by playing with the color, size and texture of the mesh insert you use!
Liz Basler, Castle Design
I don’t think it is a phase. I see it as a return to historic and European design. It allows the kitchen to feel elevated and can be mixed with cabinet designs that are more simple. Consider another layer to be added to a kitchen just like the use of cabinet pulls and Cremones. It brings a French Bistro feel to a kitchen or historic Pie pantry or Butler‘s pantry to mind. I think a little goes a long way and when you overdo anything, it’s overdone.
Kristie Clinard, Walnut Lily
Mesh cabinet doors are classic and add a touch of texture and character to a design when used appropriately. However, it is important that the finish, pattern and scale of the mesh and material coordinate with the overall aesthetic and style of the home. I prefer using them as an accent on just a few doors above a bar or in a butler's pantry. I also tell my clients to keep in mind that they will have to organize and dust what's behind them, so it might not be for everybody.
Closet Design by Christine Paul, chrispaul@glenalspaugh.com
