Southern Host + Home :: Spring 2025 by SouthernStudioInteriorDesign

HOME FOR ENTERTAINING WITH SOUTHERN STUDIO INTERIOR DESIGN PRESENTS

HOST + HOME Southern

A NOTE FROM VICKY SERANY

We are welcoming spring with fresh beginnings and renewed inspiration. The winter months always seem to be a time to cozy up at home with friends and family. The memories made over impromptu dinners, birthday celebrations, and game nights will last a lifetime. There’s nothing we love more than the photos we receive of families enjoying the spaces and moments we’ve helped to create. It’s why we do what we do!

The Southern Studio team has been working on some incredible projects. Whether it’s a luxury renovation locally or a carriage house on the coast, we are taking the time to enjoy our clients and celebrate the design process. The studio has evolved over the years and it’s landed in a place that just feels right for our team and our clients.

At Home for Entertaining, we have kicked o the year with great enthusiasm. The kitchen is filled with new chefs and menus, a line-up of corporate team building experiences, and our Mahjong series continues! At the same time, our team has been traveling near and far to find new artisans to represent in the shop. We are thrilled with our special finds from the Maison + Objet faire in Paris and the Shoppe Object market in New York. Stop by the shop or visit us online to see what’s new.

We’ve come a long way over the past year at 119 West Park Street and there is so much to celebrate. Starting any new business has challenges and hurdles. I am so proud of our teams. Their commitment to excellence shows every day.

We are so grateful for the opportunity to share our love of design and entertaining in meaningful ways. Thank you for joining us on the journey.

Vicky Serany Founder and Principal

LET'S CONNECT

3 9 11 13

SPRING 2025

PROJECT

REVEAL

A CHARMING LAKESIDE RENOVATION

STYLING + ENTERTAINING ACESSORIES

HOW TO BE THE HOST WITH THE MOST

NOT YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S BRIDAL REGISTRY

CREATE A THOUGHTFULLY CURATED REGISTRY

CHEF’S CORNER

RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE FROM THE HFE KITCHEN

A CHARMING LAKESIDE RENOVATION

This project was extra special for the Southern Studio design team. We don’t o en get to design for one of our own. For many years our studio administrator, Crista Davis, was the glue that held the ﬁrm together. When she and her husband, Michael, decided it was time to retire and move to their happy place at the lake, our designers jumped in to begin the renovation design.

The home was originally built in 1987 and most of the exterior and interior was original. The exterior updates were extensive and included blending new materials with the existing which is always a challenge. The main living area and kitchen were the priorities of the interior with a focus on family entertaining. Working in the studio for years, Crista had a clear vision of certain features and pieces she wanted to incorporate into the design. She also understood the challenges – it has to get ugly before it’s pretty. She and Michael packed up and moved out of the house for ten months. The kitchen was the biggest challenge and it all started on paper. A er conﬁrming the structural requirements, a main wall dividing the kitchen and living room was removed to maximize the space.

State-of-art appliances by Wolf and SubZero were the starting point for the design. In an e ort to stay true to the original architecture, a brick wall feature surrounding the range became a focal point. The custom island anchors the space and was cra of beautiful walnut, but the bar was the star attraction for Michael’s bourbon collection.Every additional space was carefully considered and designed – from the primary suite with views of the lake to the bunk room for the grandchildren. The design honors the natural surroundings and focuses on easy care materials. This home was designed for family fun and there’s not a family more worthy of it all.

WORDS OF WISDOM

We talked about renovating our lake house for many years, so it is still hard for us to believe that it is ﬁnally complete. We had a vision, but it took a talented design team and a quality builder to help us transform that vision into a stunning reality. We were fortunate to be connected to their network of expert tradesman and vendors. This collective expertise ensured that every detail was thoughtfully cra ed, creating a space that truly feels like home. We learned that it’s important to focus on the big picture since the process is not always easy, but when unwanted surprises rear their ugly head, it’s the planning that guides you in the right direction. We look around our home and love how it all came together. It’s a place for family and friends to easily gather as we all did over the holidays and share good food, conversation and laughter. We are grateful to have a home we enjoy everyday.

- Crista and Michael Davis

TIPS FOR RENOVATING

KAYLA BOYLE

Senior Designer

Try to capture the details before you even begin! This not only helps the project run more e ciently, but also allows you to have a better understanding of the most dreaded part of every project, the budget. Not to mention, when things need to evolve (as they always do), you can pivot easier knowing what the other pieces of the design “puzzle” are. As an added bonus, your contractor will appreciate the organization, too!

PAIGE ADAMS

Senior Designer

Embrace the character and imperfections! When you dive into a remodel, some things cannot be changed, so you have to embrace the unique quirks that come with it! It’s part of the challenge that makes it special and unique, because if it was simple and easy, it would be boring (and everyone would do it). Typically, it comes out better than imagined when you have to be more creative.

KIRSTEN GRAY

Project Coordinator

For tackling renovation projects, it’s important to have lots of inspiration! This helps the design team to create a vision, and help bring your project to life. Most renovations are dreamt up for many years prior to their occurrence, so we want this process to be as exciting and seamless as possible.

THE

THE COLORS OF THE LAKE

COLORS OF THE

FAVORITE SPACE

VICKY SERANY

Principal Designer

The transformation of the kitchen is by far my favorite space. It started as a dated, closed-o room and we opened it up to create a dream kitchen for Crista. It’s a small but mighty space that has all of the bells and whistles!

KAYLA BOYLE

Senior Designer

The exterior transformation has to be my favorite. The way it was updated to meet the aesthetic and functional needs of Crista and Michael was truly amazing! The exterior took on a new life with a welcoming charm that immediately makes you feel right at home before you even enter the house!

COLORS LAKE

PAIGE ADAMS

Senior Designer

It’s hard to pick, but the Bourbon Bar became my favorite spot and design of the project. From the custom cabinetry that is the perfect height for treasured bottles to the painted brick splash and glass cabinet hutch that highlights beautiful drink ware. It will be the center for all celebrations to come (big and small!)

KIRSTEN GRAY

Project Coordinator

My favorite space is the bunk room. This area will be ﬁlled with lots of laughter and fun, for all the children and grand babies to spend time with one another.

FAVORITE SPACE COLORS

My favorite space is the bunk room. This area will be ﬁlled with lots of laughter and fun, for all the children and grand babies to spend time with one another.

STYLING + ENTERTAINING ACCESSORIES

https://bit.ly/4bfIVv3

STYLING TIPS

https://bit.ly/43qBSOf

https://bit.ly/3ESs05W

Add a touch of age and patina with vintage brass candlesticks. Add a beautiful handmade beeswax candle for a casually elegant setting.

There’s something about the one-of-a-kind character of handcra ed pieces that elevate a design. Hand block-printed table linens will elevate any meal, even take-out.

Tea Towel

Leather + Glass Decanter by Clayton + Crume

Leather + Glass Rocks Glasses by Clayton + Crume

Manchester Tumbler in Two Sizes by Simon Pearce

Block Printed Napkins and Placemats by Pomegranate

Handmade Beeswax

Column Taper Candle

Twist Taper Candle (handmade beeswax)

READY TO HOST YOUR OWN PARTY

AND ENJOY IT, TOO?

Here are a few hosting tips from the Home for Entertaining team.

Jackie

Serany, Director of Retail

Keep the menu simple. Prepare a few dishes you’re conﬁdent with, use semi-homemade items, or even look into catering options to minimize stress. A crowd-pleaser like sliders, a pasta bake, or charcuterie always works.

Don’t be afraid to delegate a little. If someone o ers to bring a dish or help with cleanup, say yes! Appetizers or desserts are always a perfect option for a guest to help with.

Have a puzzle, trivia questions, or simple board games nearby for optional fun. Games provide a great icebreaker for new friends or a post-dinner activity for those looking to continue socializing.

Try to embrace imperfection. A relaxed host equals happy guests—focus on enjoying the company rather than sweating the details.

Megan Serany, Director of Experiences

Take advantage of the beautiful rooms and entertaining spaces in your home—like the bar, island, dining room, and scullery—by setting up di erent food and drink stations throughout. This not only helps guests feel more at ease but also encourages them to explore and mingle, preventing any single space from becoming overcrowded.

Create a signature “house cocktail” to simplify the evening and avoid being stuck behind the bar all night. Add a touch of charm with a simple sign displaying the recipe, and set out all the ingredients and tools your guests need to mix their own drinks. Don’t forget to include a tasty mocktail option for non-drinkers—it’s a thoughtful addition that ensures everyone feels included!

NOT YOUR GRANDMOTHER’

NOT YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S BRIDAL REGISTRY

BRIDAL REGISTRY

Let’s face it—getting married comes with gi s, whether it’s at a shower, during the wedding, or even arriving in the mail a erward. Your loved ones want to celebrate your big day with something special, and if you don’t provide guidance, they might fall back to what they chose for their own registries. So why not create a thoughtfully curated registry ﬁlled with beautiful, meaningful pieces you’ll cherish for years to come?

Gone are the days of registering for multiple sets of china that gather dust. Today’s couples prioritize high-quality, versatile items that reﬂect their unique style and ﬁt seamlessly into their everyday lives.

1 2 3 4

Some things for the happy couple to keep in mind when building a registry together:

Think about those luxurious items you wouldn’t splurge on for yourself but would love to bring out when hosting your favorite people for dinner. Whether it’s elegant serveware, ﬁne linens, or statement glassware, your registry is the perfect place to add a touch of indulgence.

Look for versatile, standout pieces that can serve multiple purposes. A stunning pitcher that doubles as a ﬂower vase or utensil crock? Yes, please! Multi-functional items can be both beautiful and practical.

Blend old with new. Grandma’s Thanksgiving china, lovingly stored for your big day, may not have been your ﬁrst choice—but you can give it fresh life by pairing it with gorgeous modern linens or glassware. The result? A timeless yet updated look that honors tradition.

Dare to be di erent! If you’re tired of seeing the same dinnerware at every gathering, seek out something truly unique? Opt for a one-of-a-kind set of dishes from a small boutique or local artisan—pieces that reﬂect your personality and stand out from the crowd.

FROM THE HOME FOR ENTERTAINING KITCHEN

The Home for Entertaining team –sta , chefs, and assistants – want to spread the love of entertaining. They are always happy to share their favorite recipes to make entertaining at home approachable and enjoyable. It’s time to enjoy your own party!

Explore the new line-up of classes and experiences. We cannot wait to see you in the kitchen.

Chef Cat is a favorite at Home for Entertaining. We love her easy, crowd-pleasing dessert! A fantastic dish to make in the Smithey Cast Iron Skillet. https://bit.ly/4hQYg7U

RECIPES FROM THE HOME FOR ENTERTAINING KITCHEN

PEAR CRISP (FROM CAT BROWNE)

Ingredients:

8 ripe pears (peeled, cored and diced, such as Bosc)

1 lemon (zested and juiced)

2 tbsp orange juice

½ cup coconut sugar

¼ cup gluten free ﬂour (or all purpose)

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

pinch of salt

½ tsp nutmeg pinch of salt

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°

Topping:

1 ½ cup gluten free ﬂour (or all purpose)

1 cup cocnut sugar, maple sugar or light brown sugar

½ tsp kosher salt

1 cup old fashioned oats

½ pound unsalted butter (cold and diced)

Serve with:

vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream

Place the pears in a large bowl with the lemon zest, juices, sugar, ﬂour, salt and spices.

Mix and pour into a large cast iron skillet or 9”x12” or similar baking dish.

For the topping, combine the ﬁrst four ingredients and cut in the butter until very small pieces remain.

Mix and pour into a large cast iron skillet or 9”x12” or similar baking dish. For the topping, combine the ﬁrst four ingredients and cut in the butter until very small pieces remain.

Sprinkle the topping over the pears.

Bake for approximately 45-55 minutes until brown and bubbly.

Option to serve with coconut whipped cream or ice cream.

DOUBLE HAPPINESS

FRIED RICE

FRIED RICE (FROM WENDY PANNELL)

(FROM WENDY PANNELL)

Ingredients:

1 package Chinese sausage (cut into small cube sizes)

2 poblano peppers (cut into small cube sizes)

2 eggs (whisk into a bowl)

4 green onions (cut into small pieces)

3 cups cooked rice (any type)

4 tbsp soy sauce

pinch of salt

6 tbsp cooking oil (divided)

DIRECTIONS

Heat 1 tbsp oil on medium heat in a wok. Add half of the green onion and saute for about 1 minute. Add a pinch of salt, then add the egg. Cook until the egg is cooked like a scrambled egg. Set aside.

Add the remaining oil into the wok. When hot, add the remaining green onion and cook about one minute. Add the sausage and cook an additional 3-4 minutes. Add the pepper (and any additional vegetables if you choose) and cook approximately 2 minutes.

Add the rice mix well. Add the soy sauce and salt and mix evenly. Cook for another minute. Add the egg, mix together and serve.

Add the rice and mix well. Add the soy sauce and salt and mix evenly. Cook for another minute. Add the egg, mix together and serve.

https://bit.ly/3DBOU1f

Our Dim Sum classes always seem to sell out fast. Our intimate kitchen keeps our class sizes small, but the energy is big with Wendy! Serve Wendy’s Double Happiness Fried Rice in our Haand Nara Bowl.

https://bit.ly/3DBOU1f