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Jeff
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SOUTHWEST
40 Powerful Presence
Architectural acumen in Placitas leads to a dream home for a married design-build team.
52 Bliss, By Design
Japandi aesthetic lands in Monte Sereno, perfecting a fusion of Eastern serenity and Western warmth in a decidedly Santa Fe–style home.
SPECIAL SECTION
26 Su Casa Celebrates 30 Years
We’re celebrating a significant milestone thanks to our generous home-building community and homeowners who’ve opened their doors to us over the years. 32 Posh Privies
Explore seven local powder baths designed to inspire, delight and enhance living and entertaining.
Amadeus Leitner
On the cover: Paul Kenderdine, of PWKI LLC, has a distinctive style characterized by strong horizontal lines and organic integration into the landscape. Photograph by Amadeus Leitner.
Casey Addason
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IN EVERY ISSUE
22 Inside Su Casa 30
A traditional 30th anniversary gift, mother-of-pearl accents add elegant sheen to any space.
62 Design Studio
Local pros weigh in on making informed choices when choosing a dream spot for your home. A backyard greenhouse can be both beautiful and functional, allowing you to enjoy fresh flowers and food all year long. Plus, tips for getting a good night’s sleep.
68 Vida Buena
Take a sightseeing trip to the Great Smoky Mountains for majestic vistas along scenic byways.
72 Artist Spotlight
Greg Gowen tried to forsake life as an artist—until he received a divine whisper to become a copper and brass sculpture artist.
74 Su Cocina
Fiesta Azul Tequila House shakes up Albuquerque with Mexican flair and a wall of agave spirits.
76 ¡ Salud!
Local producers are crafting gut-healthy kombucha elixirs infused with the unique flavors of the Southwest. 84 Su Libro
“Modern West” collects an illustrated and inspirational report from the front lines of this design frontier. “Parklands: America’s National Parks and Public Lands” showcases its author’s stunning photography.
Kate Russell
Editor
Creative
Contributors
Paula
Lisa
Kate
Lexi
Kastle
Kristen
Kate
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Welcome to the Autumn Issue of Su Casa
This season, Su Casa turns 30. For three decades, we’ve had the privilege of capturing one-of-a-kind homes through stunning photography and exceptional story telling. We’ve celebrated the people who create them and the traditions that shape our distinctive Southwest style. In honor of this milestone, we’ve gathered a retrospective photo essay that looks back at the evolving pages of Su Casa through the years—a reminder of how much has changed, and how much remains timeless.
In this issue, you’ll also find stories that carry our mission forward. Paul and Brenda Kenderdine of PWKI LLC built “Casa de Reina,” a deeply personal project where the couple finally became their own clients. ODAI Design + Construct brings Japandi serenity to Monte Sereno with a home that balances simplicity and warmth. Both reflect the artistry, intention and individuality that have defined the homes we’ve shared since our very first issue.
You’ll also discover inventive powder baths that prove even the smallest spaces can be unforgettable, guidance on choosing the right homesite for your future build and a sip of something new—New Mexico kombucha, made with local flair. Consider adding a greenhouse to your backyard for fresh flowers and veggies year round. As the sun sets earlier, make the most of getting a better night’s sleep with tips from the sleep pros. And when it’s time to unplug, picture yourself surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery in the Great Smoky Mountains—one of the most stunning national parks in the U.S.
As we mark this anniversary, we’re reminded of the community that has carried us here: the designers, builders, artisans and readers who continue to inspire us. Thank you for making Su Casa part of your homes and your lives. We look forward to many more years of celebrating the beauty of the Southwest together.
William P. Lang Publisher
Brenda Kenderdine’s long-held design inspiration for a soaring glass stairwell came to fruition when she and builder-partner-husband, Paul Kenderine of PWKI LLC, built their forever home. Read more on page 40.
Right:
Amadeus Leitner
Su Casa began as a humble guide for those seeking inspiration from the community’s newest homes. What started as a simple way to highlight beautiful living spaces soon grew into something richer—a trusted voice and a chronicle of evolving trends, remarkable talent and timeless style.
Su Casa has been privileged to champion the builders, architects, designers and artisans who shape our evolving Southwestern aesthetic. Each project we feature is a reflection of dedication, skill and the deeply personal connection between a home and its inhabitants.
As we step into our next chapter, our mission is unchanged: to honor the roots that anchor us while embracing the creativity that drives us forward. We remain committed to opening the door to inspiration, ideas and the resources that celebrate home.
To our advertisers and contributors, whose partnership has fueled our pages and allowed us to keep telling the stories of Southwest living—we are deeply grateful. And to the homeowners who have graciously opened their doors, inviting us—and tens of thousands of curious readers quarterly—to step inside your homes. We appreciate your stories, your imagination and your passion for making a house a home.We couldn’t have reached this milestone without such a strong, vibrant community. Here’s to the next chapter—together.
luminous by nature
mother-of-pearl accents bring timeless shimmer to home decor
A traditional 30th anniversary gift (for Su Casa!), mother-of-pearl has adorned treasures for centuries, prized for its lustrous beauty and subtle luxury. Today, designers are finding fresh ways to showcase this natural wonder—from wall decor and tiles to jewelry-like accents for the table. These pieces pair the organic allure of iridescent shells with fine craftsmanship, adding understated glamour to any home.
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1. Tidy Up
This set of two storage boxes blends utility with striking design. Each MDF box is cloaked in a meticulously arranged mother-of-pearl mosaic, forming a subtle geometric pattern in soft cream tones. Ideal for organizing jewelry, remotes or stationery, they bring a touch of luminous order to shelves, desks or bedside tables. Armadi Mother-of-Pearl Shell Handmade Mosaic Decorative Boxes, $109, wayfair.com
2. Top Table
Sleek and sculptural, this accent table combines bold design with delicate
detailing. A drum-shaped body, overlaid in a geometric shell mosaic of cream, ivory and black, rests on a gleaming gold base. The shimmering inlays shift subtly in the light, making it as much an art piece as a side table—perfect beside a reading chair or as a petite pedestal for plants or a sculpture. Mother-of-Pearl Shell Side End Accent Table with Gold Base, $281, wayfair.com
3. Let’s Reflect
The artistry of hand-cut, hand-polished mother-of-pearl frames this beveled mirror in soft, lustrous tones. Its creamy shimmer pairs effortlessly with contemporary or eclectic decor, while the clean profile ensures a modern bent. Hang it vertically or horizontally to brighten any entryway, bedroom or dressing space with both light and luxury. Mother-of-Pearl Mirror, $968, williams-sonoma.com
4. Forever Frames
These elegant frames transform photographs into keepsakes worthy of display. Each piece features a metal frame inlaid with luminous mother-of-pearl, its opalescent sheen catching the light at every angle. A velvetcovered MDF backing and glass front add a refined finish, while an easel and wall-mount option add versatility to styling. Perfect for wedding portraits, travel memories or a curated gallery wall. Available in 4 x 6-inch, 5 x 7-inch and 8 x 10-inch. Mother-of-Pearl Frames, $59–99, potterybarn.com
5. Chic Chevron
A showstopper for walls, this polished mosaic pairs pristine paperwhite and Thassos marbles with glimmering mother-of-pearl in a chevron pattern. It’s fresh yet timeless, with the contrast of matte and gloss that changes with the light. This luxe product is ideal for statement walls in baths, kitchens or entryways, bringing both texture and luminosity to the room. Magdalena, New Ravenna Studio Line, price upon request, newravenna.com
6. Upleveled Tabletop
With their smooth, rounded silhouettes and mesmerizing swirls of cream, gray and pearl, these napkin rings are the jewelry of the dining table. Each is crafted from natural mother-of-pearl, so no two are exactly alike. Their organic elegance turns everyday dinners into special occasions, pairing beautifully with crisp linens and polished flatware. Comes in a set of four. Mother-of-Pearl Napkin Rings, $49, potterybarn.com
posh privies
by Heather Shoning
peek into seven local powder baths designed to inspire, delight and enhance living
Wendy McEahern
IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, powder baths are tiny canvases with big potential. They’re the places guests notice, the spaces where bold color, unexpected texture or playful pattern can shine without overwhelming the rest of the home. From historic restorations to new-build statements, these locally designed lavs prove that style and personality aren’t limited by square footage.
modernized
In this Las Campanas powder room, Rob Woods of Woods Design Builders fused old-world Santa Fe style with a modern sensibility. Stacked stone climbs the wall to meet a skylight, where natural light shifts the texture’s shadows throughout the day. A custom floating vanity, complete with hand-carved detailing, hovers above reclaimed tile flooring that extends from the home’s entry. Intricate fixtures and a custom wood door reinforce the craftsmanship. “It’s our wheelhouse—modernizing traditional Santa Fe,” Woods says. With collaboration between the design and build team and the homeowner, the small space embodies the home’s broader theme of light-filled tradition.
Santa Fe tradition plucky take on traditional
For a young family’s Santa Fe remodel, Heather French of French & French Interiors designed the powder bath as a lively pocket-sized statement. A bold cactus-print wallpaper nods to the desert landscape, saturated hues energize the room and set a joyful tone. The compact space echoes the home’s Southwestern influences yet feels whimsical and contemporary, brimming with personality. “What makes this powder bath special is the way it captures the essence of the whole house in one small space—colorful, fun and just a little unexpected,” French says. Here, the playful palette and pattern reflect the family’s adventurous spirit and the colorful design language woven throughout the home.
color-drenched conversation starter
When your clients are avid art collectors, even the powder bath deserves to make a statement. For this timeless East Side Santa Fe home, Erica Ortiz Berke of Neubleu Interior Design built the entire design around a striking turquoise vessel sink the homeowners found at Seret & Sons. A floating walnut slab serves as the vanity, its warmth balancing the saturated burnt-orange-red walls and
ceiling—a hue Berke likens to “the perfect New Mexico sunset.” Locally made bronze sconces and a cutout metal ceiling fixture add sculptural lighting. The white oak floor keeps the space grounded, while the absence of a traditional cabinet enhances the room’s gallery-like feel. “It’s a wow moment that sparks conversation,” Ortiz Berke says.
Lee Klopfer
Transforming a former closet into a powder bath in a home built by puzzling together repurposed log cabins required creativity and respect for the property’s layered history. Gayla Bechtol of Gayla Bechtol Architect collaborated closely with her client, who sourced much of the furniture and fixtures herself, to craft the perfect personal space, centered around a quaint repurposed vanity. The home is defined by its original detailing including clinker block flooring—salvaged, repaired and re-laid. And the bathroom, with its rustic tone, and a sliding barn door the homeowner found in Louisiana, complements rather than contrasts. The mix of reclaimed woods, plaster walls and practical scale reflects the home’s unconventional origins while delivering the convenience of a powder bath close to the main living areas. “Every decision contributed to functionality without losing the building’s character,” Bechtol says.
historic charm, compact design
Wendy McEahern
Daniel Nadelbach
old-world sophistication
For Dallas clients with a second home in Santa Fe’s Las Campanas community, Amanda Tucker of Bohome Interiors reimagined an early-2000s powder bath to reflect old-world sophistication. Off the main living areas, the space needed presence while tying into the home’s classic Santa Fe style. Tucker replaced dated ceramic tile with cement tiles resembling terracotta and specified a Spanishinspired vanity with a hammered copper sink and travertine top. The moody blue walls—this home’s only use of color—set the bath apart while complementing the lighter stone and wood tones elsewhere. “A powder bath is the perfect space to have a little fun,” Tucker says. The result is a jewelbox moment that feels distinct yet perfectly at home.
Playful and layered, this powder bath blends Asian-inspired patterns with farmhouse and Southwestern elements. Melanie Pizzonia of Exquisite Design pulled colors from the region—salmon, cream and turquoise—and incorporated them in unexpected ways, from a ceramicdisc-framed mirror to a salmon-andwhite checkerboard floor. Modern bubble-print wallpaper and a flowing, rounded-edge sink keep the space lively, while a high-gloss cabinet finish adds a touch of sheen to balance the room’s many matte surfaces. The gem-look frosted light fixture adds a soft glow with a nod to elegance. “It’s a study in oppositional design styles,” Pizzonia says. The result is a curated, collected-over-time feel that reflects both the home’s eclectic style and its New Mexico setting.
Casey Addason
whimsical welcome
For clients who split time between Santa Fe and Washington state, Trish Spencer of Three Roots Design wanted the powder bath to greet guests with charm. A bold, patterned wallpaper sets the tone, paired with elaborate mirrors from a tin artisan. The chandelier—Spencer’s own she plucked from storage— adds color in an unexpected way. A pedestal sink salvaged from another renovation keeps the footprint light, while the homeowner’s credenza and stool from their Seattle home bring warmth and texture. “We just wanted it to be colorful and fun,” Spencer says. The transformation with its designer’s touch makes it a true conversation piece.
modernized Santa Fe tradition, page 32
Architecture: Lorn Tryk Architects PC; Home Designer/Builder: Woods Design Builders, Inc.; Interior Design: Moderngoods; Backsplash Stone: Buena Vista Masonry; Countertops/Cabinetry: Ernest Thompson; Interior Door: VML Woodworks; Sink/Plumbing Fixtures: Santa Fe by Design; Tile: Statements in Tile
plucky take on traditional, page 33
Architecture: Geisler Projects; Builder: Kameron Cheney; Interior Design: French & French Interiors; Fixtures: Waterworks; Lighting: Visual Comfort & Co.; Wallpaper: Newton Paisley
color-drenched conversation starter, page 34
Architecture: Architectural Alliance LLC; Builder: True North Builders, LLC; Interior Design: Neubleu Interior Design; Lighting: Casa Rosina; Sink: Seret & Sons
Home Designer: Adwelling Design LLC; Builder: Twilight Luxury Homes; Interior Design: Exquisite Design; Cabinetry: Ernest Thompson; Countertops: Premier Granite; Fixtures/Sink: Doc Savage Supply; Lighting: Uttermost; Tile: Stonewood Flooring, Inc.
old-world sophistication, page 37
Home Designer/Builder/Interior Design: Bohome Interiors LLC; Cabinetry: James Martin Vanities; Countertops: Jim Harris’ Marble & Granite Corp.; Sink: Native Trails; Tile: Statements in Tile
whimsical welcome, page 38
Interior Design: Three Roots Design; Pendant Lighting: Visual Comfort & Co.; Wallpaper: Supply Showroom; Wallpaper Installation: Santa Fe Wallcovering
powerful presence
architectural acumen leads to a dream home for a married design-build team
by Jessa Cast photographs
by Amadeus Leitner
Structural shenanigans. These are not the words that come to mind when viewing the beautifully tailored home built by Paul Kenderdine’s design-build firm, PWKI LLC, that has been constructing custom homes in the Southwest for nearly 37 years. He has an identifiable style marked by strong horizontal lines and organic integration into the landscape. Brenda Kenderdine’s interiors both complement and soften the uncompromising lines of her husband’s architectural work. In fact, this structure is anything but architectural tomfoolery. But his words offer a peek into the couple’s humor and warmth of partnership as spouses and co-designers.
A few years ago, they bought this 1.78-acre lot atop a Placitas bluff, intending to build a 4,000-square-foot, single-story speculative house with unparalleled views. As the plans developed, though, things took an interesting turn.
In admiring the evolving floor plans, Brenda Kenderdine mused, “I could live in that.” Her husband responded, “Well, why don’t we?” Suddenly, the newly dubbed “Casa de Reina,” (queen’s house) turned the design duo into their own clients for the first time. This was a big deal for the couple. Whereas some homebuilders move into a new home they’ve built every couple of years, these two had lived in their previous home, which
Floating wood soffits serve to translate the eight- and nine-foot visual lines of the kitchen cabinets and ceiling, respectively, into the living area. They also draw the eye upward and create an ever-changing perspective, contrasting the negative spaces above and below them.
All four sets of towering glass walls are sliding doors, allowing for flow and connection with nature. Brenda opens one door when she swings, literally swinging from inside to out, and back.
Paul Kenderdine built under his mentorship with architect George Pearl, for 31 years.
Then, a cascade of events—those “shenanigans”— began. Upon discovering a corner of the building envelope required excavation 11 feet deep, they spied an opportunity. “I said to Brenda, ‘We might as well make it a basement,’” Paul Kenderdine says. That added another 1,000 square feet.
Then, another opportunity arose. Brenda Kenderdine had fallen in love with a tower staircase in a magazine in 2011 and saved the picture. Unexpectedly, with that lower-story addition, they
A service pantry hides behind a wood panel.
could now build one. Two stories of glass, topped with a repeating midcentury-esque roofline, encases the extra-wide stairway, designed for savoring the views.
The lower level centers around a recreation room with a ping-pong table. Off to one side behind a secret panel, is Brenda Kenderdine’s hidden calming room with gorgeous blue elephant-print wallpaper and luxe seating (kept secret even for the 2025 Parade of Homes). Past that, a bathroom, and just beyond was originally a window looking north. But, with her mother in mind, Brenda Kenderdine wanted an egress. “Can you replace that window with a door?” she asked. He did so. The first time she walked through it, she took in the space
beyond, remarking offhandedly, “That would be a great place for a pool.” The next time she looked outside, he was on his tractor, excavating for that pool. There were no plans for a pool. But it was Paul Kenderdine’s mission to make this home everything his wife wanted, and, well, that basement needed a door…
The finished product is a four-bedroom, six-bathroom, 5,200-square-foot work of contemporary art with a swing in the living room. “The swing is for my mental health,” Brenda Kenderdine says.
Outside, the massing recalls the Usonian and Prairie styles made famous in the early- to mid-20th century, with long horizontal lines and strategic shading from the sun while the
Oak cabinets surround a tidy, functional kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances. The upper, glass-paneled cabinets actually open at the corner, the doors swinging wide for easy access.
An atmospheric wallcovering from Tektura, titled Shinrin
was customized to this room, so the gold trees wouldn’t align over the windows.
Sunrise,
stucco finish gives it a decidedly Southwestern spirit. One section of roof is deftly cantilevered on a concealed 50-foot beam, lending a sense of magnitude. Inside, visitors experience the “squeeze and release” of entering under a lower ceiling and proceeding into a space with grander scale, featuring floating soffits that draw the eye up the height of the windows, without sacrificing views.
The blended aesthetic of warm finishes with crisp lines, echoed in the layout, cabinetry and furniture, is timeless, and painstakingly done with intention. “Paul has such a sense of order,” Brenda Kenderdine says. “He has to have a reason for every space, for every line, or he’s anxious.”
To that end, no line is ever orphaned. For example, the top of the kitchen cabinetry runs at an even eight-foot height, with the ceiling at nine feet. Those spatial planes carry straight through the windows to the delineating architectural cues outside. A visitor may not notice this detail, and that’s the point. Once you see it, though, you can’t ignore that satisfying thoroughness of visual concord.
The mocha-marbled quartzite kitchen countertops, a perfect anchor of hues and liveliness for this abode, almost didn’t happen. “We found this quartzite and both loved it, so we were going to go back and put it on hold. I walked in a week later and they were gone,” Paul Kenderdine says. Disappointed, the couple spent
the better part of last year looking for an alternative. Nothing worked. Then, at the end of the year, the fabricator called, asking if PWKI had reserved quartzite at Arizona Tile. Sure enough, it was the slabs the couple had fallen in love with—they had been reserved all along, just lost in communications regarding myriad stone orders they and other builders had held for various jobs. The Kenderdines were joyous.
In addition to three guest bedrooms, one with a private entrance, are two home offices and a gym. The only room without a window showcasing a remarkable view is one bathroom, and even that one has a wash of natural light from a slotted skylight. Every view is vigilantly framed to obscure neighboring houses, for a sense of solitude and to celebrate the desert landscape. Even the service pantry has an enviable view. For a more visceral effect, at select windows the landscape grade was brought right up to the windowsill, sustaining a feeling of connectedness with nature.
Will they itch to build and move again? “No,” Paul Kenderdine says. They completed this home in time for their 40th wedding anniversary. “The nickname is Casa de Reina. Without getting too cheesy or too emotional, this was my gift to Brenda,” he says. “After almost forty years, Brenda’s seen all these other things that we’ve designed and built for other people … it’s her turn.”
A swath of wallcovering, matching that of the bedroom, ties in a vertical splash of golden tile in the shower.
“Brenda’s seen all these other things that we’ve designed and built for other people … it’s her turn.”
– Paul Kenderdine
resources
Home Builder/Home Desiger PWKI LLC pwki.com
Interior Selections
Paul & Brenda Kenderdine
Appliances
Builders Source, Inc. builderssource.com
Bathroom and Kitchen Sinks/Fixtures
Doc Savage Supply
Cabinetry/Kitchen Hood
Paramount Cabinets
Countertops
Arizona Tile Quality Stone LLC (Fabrication/Installation)
Fireplaces
Builder’s Materials
Flooring (Tile)
Floor & Decor
ProSource of Albuquerque
Front Door/Sliding Window Wall
Dwight’s Glass & Mirror (Western Window Systems)
Interior Doors
Lowe’s Home Improvement
Paramount Cabinets
Kitchen Backsplash
ProSource of Albuquerque
Metal Fabrication
Duran Steel Fabricators, Inc.
Pool Master Pools & Spas LLC
Wallpaper
Tektura
Windows
Dwight’s Glass & Mirror (Kawneer)
Firewood becomes more than fuel with a bit of care and attention. It’s a natural, textural element that brings warmth and character to a room. Think: clean stacks of split logs tucked into a built-in cubby or arranged in a woven basket beside the hearth, acting as both function and focal point. To keep things looking refined—not rustic gone rogue—always use seasoned or kiln-dried wood. It burns efficiently and is less likely to harbor moisture or pests. Give each piece a quick glow up (i.e., brush it off a bit) before bringing it indoors. Rotate your stack occasionally to keep the look fresh and dust-free, and clean the surrounding area regularly so it always feels styled, not forgotten. Done right, a curated firewood display adds an effortless, earthy elegance—proof that even the most practical elements of your home can double as beautiful design moments.
bliss, by design
Japandi style lands in Monte Sereno, perfecting a fusion of Eastern serenity and Western warmth
by Lisa Marie Hart
photographs by Kate Russell
She loves to start her mornings with stretches and salutations in the tatami room. He loves the seamless flow from cool indoor spaces to expansive outdoor portales, where relaxation awaits day or night under 6,600 square feet of covered bliss. Tony and Ginner Castillo’s new Monte Serano home embodies every placid intention they brought to its creation.
After nearly 30 years away, the New Mexico natives looked forward to retiring in Monte Serano with panoramic views and an inviting open floor plan. What they sought was “not the biggest, but the best” bespoke home—and they were prepared to explain their aspirations for a hilltop residence that would be “simple but also sublime.”
They knew they’d found the right collaborators when their realtor introduced them to Wendi and Anthony Odai of ODAI Design + Construct. The Odais were not only willing to hear and incorporate the couple’s unique ideas, but they also welcomed and valued them.
Water ripples down an orb fountain and onto a bed of river rock in the entry courtyard, creating an aquatic rhythm the homeowners embrace.
Across the entryway ceiling, beams of rich Spanish cedar are among the few forays into architectural drama in a home that embraces simplicity.
Black-stained rift white oak custom cabinets in the kitchen incorporate panels to conceal the Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, creating an integrated look.
A skylight in the dining room highlights the artwork. Additional skylights invite filtered daylight into the entry and bathrooms.
Creamy hues create a comforting connection between the contemporary sofa and the Mies van der Rohe for Knoll Barcelona lounge chair and ottoman, two styles that read as kin.
“We’re a very custom build-design company,” Wendi Odai says. “We don’t push our aesthetic; we focus in on the clients as individuals.” It’s an ethos that proved a perfect fit for a couple with such a well-defined perspective.
“Our goal was to create a welcoming, serene and comfortable living space,” Ginner says. A less-is-more approach and strategic use of negative space, she adds, would balance clean lines with cozy elements. “We wanted to prioritize practicality and livability with aesthetic appeal.”
Tony and Ginner’s ability to see the home in their mind’s eye and articulate that vision benefited their home—and the process. The resourceful pair even devised a shortcut for getting into their new home in record time. During a home tour, the Castillos had visited a house with a floor plan that struck a chord. Rather than start from scratch, drawing up custom plans, they hired architect Lorn Tryk to make key changes to the floor plan he’d already designed.
Among them, he added lighted nichos to display
artwork, widened hallways, extended the portales, gave each of the three bedrooms an en suite bathroom and designed a casita suite detached from the main home. Tryk also sited the home on steep and challenging terrain while angling the doors, windows and open-air courtyards toward the spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and surrounding areas.
An entry courtyard divides the home into distinct wings, with a tatami room and primary suite on one side, spacious open-plan living, dining and kitchen spaces in the center, and guest rooms on the other.
ODAI stepped into this tailored silhouette, bringing craftsmanship, texture and a harmonious unification of East meets West. Deeply inspired by nature, every layer—from a soothing palette of neutral hues to soft curves and organic forms—supports the couple’s desire to evoke calm and tranquility. In a mindful take on quiet luxury for the home, the design whispers like a breeze and envelops like the first ray of sun on a cool morning.
Chavez Woodworking, Inc. designed and crafted the shoji sliding pocket door panels for the tatami room, pairing translucent material and wooden frames.
That feeling is by heartfelt design. “We wanted our entry courtyard to set the mood for the home, fostering a sense of peace and tranquility,” Ginner says. A large spherical fountain trickles water into the surrounding river rock, while a tall Japanese lantern, chiseled from beige granite, emits a gentle glow.
Past the pivoting Spanish cedar front door—adorned with four-foot-long iron handles forged by master blacksmiths—the wide entry encourages pause. On three sides, the home unfolds in a light and airy expression of quintessential Japandi style.
“The style blends the minimalist, functional and cozy elements of Scandinavian design with the simplicity of natural materials and the serene atmosphere of Japanese design,” Ginner says. Wood floors lay a warm foundation, while the cool ivory tones of leathered organic Taj Mahal quartzite surfaces make a cohesive link between the kitchen and the primary suite. On the walls, a diamond plaster finish adds a hint of shimmer, enhanced by the natural light.
In lieu of a den or fourth bedroom, the couple requested a quiet room for yoga and meditation where tatami mats pad the floor. The casita received what Ginner describes as “a soft Santa Fe vibe” that incorporates a corner Kiva fireplace.
“Their input was very clean and clear,” Anthony Odai says. “And they also happened to be a really nice couple to work with.”
Even in the tatami room—with its Nelson bubble lamp and streamlined Danish teak storage pieces—the home boasts a subtle midcentury sensibility, thanks in part to their curated furnishings and art.
“Furniture-wise, we started over with an empty canvas,” Ginner says. Their son Benjamin, a midcentury modern Danish furniture dealer, guided them on mingling contemporary furniture with midcentury classics by Charles and Ray Eames, Hans Wegner, and Finn Juhl, and lighting by Louis Poulsen and Isamu Noguchi.
White pendant lamps hang like full moons in the primary bedroom, their refined curves echoing those of the two-tone bench.
The artwork, infusing moments of bright color, reflects their lifelong collection. Most pieces represent local artists from communities in several states where they have lived, with a few of Ginner’s own paintings imparting an even more personal note.
The interiors’ grounding sense of harmony pours like a stream to the outdoor environs—in bubbling fountains, minimal landscaping and a Japanese lantern–lit path leading to an overlook deck with breathtaking vistas.
The Zen character has a powerful effect. The Castillos have enjoyed sharing the home by hosting family from afar, while the Odais have frequently shown the home they call “Zen Reflections” to new clients. Wendi Odai finds it a stunning example of the power of partnership in design. “Spending time with clients in the beginning results in a home we can very much customize to their taste,” she says. “We worked hand-in-hand every step of the way.”
Ginner shares that they especially appreciated the array of design choices ODAI presented and the esteem shown for their suggestions. “Anthony and Wendi were very amenable to any of the changes that we wanted to make along the way, even as the building was going up.”
Coming back home to New Mexico—and building a dream—was worth the wait. “I think people are complimentary because there is a uniqueness about this house in the serenity that it brings,” Tony says. “Nearly every day we pinch ourselves for the good fortune of being able to create a home from our intentionality and make it uniquely ours.”
resources
Architecture
Lorn Tryk Architects PC
Home Builder/Home Designer
Interior Design
Odai Design + Construct odaibuild.com
Appliances/Bathroom Tub/Sinks
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting
Beams
Builders FirstSource
Cabinetry/Front Door/Interior Doors Chavez Woodworking, Inc.
Central Vacuum
Albuquerque Sound and Vac abqsoundandvac.com
Countertops/Kitchen Backsplash
Arizona Tile
Rocky Mountain Stone (Fabrication/Installation) rmstone.com
Fireplaces
The Firebird
Flooring
Arizona Tile (Tile) DuChateau (Wood)
Kitchen Sink/Fixtures
Santa Fe by Design
Landscaping
Green Trail LLC
Lighting Design Within Reach
Metal Fabrication
Adonai Custom Iron Work, Inc.
Sliding Window Wall/Windows
Pella Windows & Doors SW pellaofsantafe.com
Solar PPCSolar
Wall Finish
Javier’s Lathe & Plaster, Inc.
Water Features
Stone Forest
by
before the foundation choosing
the right homesite is the first step toward your dream home
THE IDEAL LOT on which to build your dream-worthy home is one of the most important—and often underestimated— decisions in the homebuilding process. From capturing breathtaking views to ensuring your homesite supports your day-to-day lifestyle, this choice will shape how you live for years to come.
At the heart of that decision is location. Where you build determines how you’ll live, what design options are possible and how well the property will hold its value over time. Do you want to be close to town, nestled in the mountains or somewhere in between? Thinking carefully about where you want to be and how that choice supports your desired lifestyle should be a top priority.
With location in mind, experts like the owner of Woods Design Builders, Rob Woods, recommend bringing in professional builders and architects early in the research process to avoid unanticipated roadblocks and guard against extraneous costs. Because the code, districts and zonings are constantly changing, Woods notes that building professionals can shepherd you through the process of choosing the ideal property for your vision and budget.
He emphasizes the importance of being clear from the start about what you want from a home and requires
his clients to create a detailed and thoughtful wish list before they start making offers. “That list includes everything from how many bedrooms, what views you desire in key rooms like the kitchen or living room, ceiling heights, and special design elements,” he says. “With this in hand, you can better evaluate how well the lots you’re considering match your vision.” He points to buildability, how steep the lot is, zoning restrictions, where the views are and whether utilities are present as key factors to consider.
Ted Lowe, owner of Lowe-bo Homes LLC, concurs. He says he sees many buyers face surprises when it comes to utility access and unexpected costs after they purchase a secluded lot. As more people choose to move to the outskirts of the city, it’s important to be aware of what that might entail when it comes to resources. “When you’re on the outskirts of town to get that rural feel or to get some views, you’re definitely going to have to be mindful about whether water and power are readily accessible, and the grade of the lot for structural purposes,” he says.
In addition to utility access, excavation must be considered for driveways and retaining walls in steeper or rockier terrain. Jon Dick, principal architect at Archaeo
Architects, recommends a feasibility study early in the process, which will determine how successful the home will be from a standpoint of topography, covenants, building code and budget, noting that these challenges don’t have to be deal breakers.
The topography can be a designer’s dream, according to Dick. “Our theory is that the more challenging the lot is from a topographic standpoint, the more interesting the architectural potential,” he says. Working with the land’s shape can allow the home to become part of the natural landscape, increasing its character and becoming a distinctive selling point.
Home orientation is just as important. In New Mexico, taking advantage of views and natural light isn’t just about aesthetics—it can improve daily wellbeing. Many buyers are considering how their home’s orientation impacts sleep and circadian rhythms, for example, by ensuring their bedrooms are east-facing. Incorporating skylights and deep portals can bring in soft, indirect light while providing shade and cooler spaces during hotter months. “Using skylights can give you a different experience throughout the year and even throughout the day because of the angle of
the sun,” Dick says. “Pay attention to how the house is going to receive the natural light.” Utilizing the home’s natural light along with shade, solar power and energy-efficient roofs and windows can also help ensure your energy bill stays low.
Ultimately, the best lot is the one that reflects your priorities, fits your long-term lifestyle and positions your home as a savvy long-term investment. Lots with good access, reliable utilities and a well-thought-out site plan tend to hold value better, even as markets fluctuate. Choosing carefully can help you avoid stressful surprises and ensure that your home enhances both its value and your life.
resources
Woods Design Builders woodsbuilders.com
Lowe-bo Homes LLC lowe-bohomes.com
Archaeo Architects
Wendy McEahern
Project by Woods Design Builders
by Lexi Marshall
greenhouses your garden
A GREENHOUSE can turn an ordinary backyard into a year-round haven of growth and beauty. Sunlight pours through clear walls, illuminating vibrant desert blooms and native succulents that thrive in carefully controlled temperature and humidity. Rain or shine, summer or winter, the greenhouse nurtures life while offering a peaceful escape—where the warm scent of sunbaked soil mixes with the quiet hum of growing plants, creating an oasis of color and calm.
The practical benefits are hard to beat. Seeds can be started six to eight weeks before the last frost in New Mexico, giving gardeners a head start on the season. Tender herbs like basil and cilantro flourish well into winter in this backyard habitat, while heatloving vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers and
cucumbers keep producing long after outdoor plants succumb to the elements. Greenhouses also protect against harsh winds and unpredictable weather—but careful monitoring and smart pest management are key to keeping everything healthy.
Greenhouses aren’t just practical—they’re a chance to showcase plants as living art. Tiered wooden shelves create a vertical garden where cascading begonias share space with trailing ivy; aromatic herbs sit at eye level for easy harvesting; and prized succulents or orchids steal the spotlight. With this “plants on display” approach, a greenhouse becomes more than a growing area—it’s a constantly changing gallery of natural beauty.
Organization is another major perk. Shelving lets
sanctuary
you maximize space while grouping plants by type, watering needs or growth stage. Seedlings thrive on upper, warmer shelves, while mature plants stand tall on lower shelves or the floor. Daily care routines become easier, and plant health can be checked at a glance.
A greenhouse also functions as a workspace where messy potting tasks stay contained, tools stay organized and delicate plants get consistent attention. Controlled conditions mean you don’t have to rush to cover plants before a surprise frost or watch helplessly as spring storms batter young seedlings.
Wood-framed greenhouses with peaked roofs and soft string lights show how these structures can enhance a landscape rather than dominate it. In New Mexico, where the natural scenery and adobestyle architecture are celebrated, thoughtful greenhouse design helps it blend seamlessly into its surroundings. Inside, the warm glow of lights makes evening plant care a calm, almost meditative experience, merging practicality with quiet beauty.
For serious food gardeners looking to extend their harvest or plant lovers cultivating diverse collections, a greenhouse provides both a practical foundation and a stunning Southwestern setting. In the high desert, it’s more than just a place to grow plants—it’s a yearround retreat full of color, life and serene New Mexico charm.
by Paula M. Bodah
the art of sleeping well
smart habits and a few simple tools can transform your nights from restless to restorative
A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP may be the most luxurious thing money can’t buy—unless, of course, you’re willing to invest in the tools that help your body do what it was designed to do: rest, repair and reset.
Sleep, after all, isn’t just a lifestyle perk; it’s essential to physical and mental well-being. Lack of it contributes to weakened immunity, brain fog, irritability and increased risk of chronic illness. Yet nearly 40 percent of Americans struggle to sleep well, whether due to insomnia, lifestyle factors or a bona fide sleep disorder like apnea.
So, what’s keeping us up at night? According to Craig Eaves, CEO and owner of Omnisleep Sleep Health in Albuquerque, it’s often the usual suspects: too much screen time, late-day caffeine or
alcohol, poor diet, chronic stress, and light or noise disturbances. “Alcohol is a big one,” he says. “It might help you fall asleep faster, but then it wakes you up and you can’t get back to sleep.” Menopause can play a role, too, disrupting circadian rhythms and causing night sweats.
The good news? There’s plenty you can do to tilt the odds in your favor. For starters, establish a nightly wind-down routine: Turn off screens at least an hour before bed (or wear blue-light blocking glasses), avoid heavy meals, and stick to consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends.
Create a sleep-friendly environment, too. Keep your bedroom cool and dark with blackout shades that block early sunlight or urban glow. Use a white noise
Nearly 40 percent of Americans struggle to sleep well.
machine to mask barking dogs or snoring spouses, or try simple foam earplugs for quiet that’s both portable and effective.
Exercise helps, too. Just 30 minutes a day can lower stress and support your circadian rhythm. And don’t underestimate the power of a little pre-bed decompression: journaling, light stretching, even jotting down your next-day to-do list can help calm a racing mind.
Then there’s the gear. “Bedding is a big factor,” Eaves notes. “A lot of people default to very soft beds, but what you really need is a mattress with support and a soft top layer, especially if you’re a side sleeper.”
Whether you opt for foam, coils, latex or a hybrid option, it all comes down to personal preference. As important as the mattress is, your pillow can also help make or break your sleep. Luckily, that’s one investment that won’t break the bank—so try a few until you find your sweet spot.
For sheets, stick with breathable, natural fabrics like cotton, linen or flannel—especially in New Mexico’s climate, where nights often swing from hot to chilly. Synthetic sheets can trap moisture, interfering with temperature regulation and leading to those dreaded 3 a.m. wakeups. Still not sleeping soundly? “If you snore, feel tired during the day or someone tells you that you stop breathing at night, talk to a sleep specialist,” Eaves advises. “You might think you’re sleeping okay, but your body may say otherwise.” No amount of morning coffee can replace the magic of a truly restful night.
Vida Buena
by Lexi Marshall
autumn ambling
a scenic journey through the Great Smoky Mountains
STRADDLING THE BORDER of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains offer one of the most spectacular autumn displays in the country. With their ancient ridgelines, vibrant deciduous forests and historic byways, the Smokies transform into a blaze of color each fall, drawing millions of visitors eager to witness the natural spectacle.
The peak season for fall foliage in the park’s mid to lower elevations typically spans mid-October through early November. During this time, trees like sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum, red maple and hickories reach their most brilliant hues, painting the landscape in deep reds, bright oranges and golden yellows. With more than 100 native tree species in
the park, the diversity of color is unmatched in the eastern United States.
Diversity is not just limited to trees here, either. Wildlife is abundant. You might spot deer, elk, black bears, Northern flying squirrels—yes, flying—, wild turkey, Eastern screech owls and more. Broadwing hawks are said to put on a show here during their autumn migration—sometimes hundreds or even thousands of them soaring along ridgelines.
Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountains area has been dubbed “The Salamander Capital of the World.”
It is the only home of the Jordan’s Salamander, which is found nowhere else in the world except in the high peaks of the Smokies.
Scenic Drives Through the Smokies
One of the most rewarding ways to take in the scenery is from the comfort of your car. The Smoky Mountains are home to several designated scenic byways and mountain roads that offer panoramic views, roadside overlooks and access to historical landmarks.
Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) is among the most popular routes through the park. Stretching 33 miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, the drive crosses Newfound Gap at an elevation of 5,046 feet and offers sweeping views of layered mountain ridges. Along the way, visitors can stop at the Newfound Gap Overlook—site of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1940 dedication of the national park—and Clingmans Dome Road, which leads to the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 feet. The half-mile paved walk to the Clingmans Dome observation tower is steep, but the 360-degree view is well worth the effort on a clear day.
Cades Cove Loop Road provides a slower, more immersive experience. This one-way, 11-mile loop circles a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is dotted with historic cabins, churches and a gristmill. The cove is not only rich in cultural history but also offers a good chance of spotting wildlife, particularly in the early morning or evening.
Another less-trafficked route, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, is a narrow, winding 5.5-mile loop that begins in Gatlinburg. The road follows a mountain stream past dense forest, waterfalls and log cabins. It’s especially picturesque in fall, with leaves carpeting the forest floor.
Notable Stops + Historic Highlights
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also a stronghold of Southern Appalachian history. The Mountain Farm Museum, located near the park’s Oconaluftee Visitor Center in North Carolina, showcases a collection of 19thcentury buildings—including a log farmhouse, barn, apple house and blacksmith shop—relocated from different parts of the park. The museum offers a glimpse into early
mountain life and is open year-round.
For those interested in Indigenous history, the Museum of the Cherokee People in Cherokee, North Carolina, provides context about the original inhabitants of these mountains, notably the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, whose ancestral lands encompass much of the southern Smokies. Established in 1948, the museum is one of the longest-operating tribal museums in the country.
Preserving the View
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park protects more than 500,000 acres of temperate forest. It is consistently the most-visited national park in the U.S., and the fall season is among its busiest. To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays and starting drives early in the morning.
From the vibrant foliage to the quiet creak of old wooden floors, abundant wildlife to living history, autumn in the Smokies is more than a visual feast—it’s a rich story of nature and culture around every turn.
creative destiny
Greg Gowen tried to forsake life as an artist—until he received a divine whisper
AFTER WATCHING HIS ARTIST PARENTS STRUGGLE, Greg Gowen swore he would never follow in their footsteps. “I know what it means to be a starving artist,” he says. However, while helping his dad, a copper and brass sculpture artist, Gowen found he was good at selling. He opened a gallery with a partner to sell art on consignment.
But that was not to be. After returning from a ski trip, Gowen found his partner had cleaned out the gallery, taken the art and money, and run, leaving him broke, in debt and unemployed. Desperate to provide for himself and his wife, he did the one thing his parents taught him: art. He borrowed a torch from his father and began to create, using copper scraps from his father’s metalworks. Within a couple of months, he landed his first gallery exhibit in Sedona, Arizona, and his work resonated with clients, bringing in enough money to live on.
Still reluctant to pursue art, Gowen attended a ministry school to become a pastor until, he says, he had a visit from God. “I was halfway through the course, and I heard an audible voice saying, ‘I designed you to be an artist.’”
He says his faith set him on the artist path. “If you’re going to be obedient to God, you have to do what he says, right?”
Gowen admits he took his creative skills for granted, having grown up around artists. “I didn’t think it was that special,” he says. That changed when he saw people’s reactions to his work and how much it meant to his clients to have something original and handmade in their homes.
Today, Gowen creates metalwork art from copper and steel using various techniques. He says he loves working with copper because of its response to heat. “There are all these colors trapped inside of copper,” he explains. “When you apply different techniques, that starts coming out.”
Gowen uses a variety of torches, from oxygen to MAPP gas, to ignite the metal’s tones and colors. He applies a chemical to speed up the patina process, revealing rich greens and blues. He also works
with a bead roller to add texture and shape, and he has an antique metal-spinning lathe to create bowls. Once the piece is complete, he uses a powder coating and custom lacquer to lock in the colors and protect the piece.
Gowen says the warmth of copper reflects the Southwest surroundings, reminding him of New Mexico sunsets and the mountain strata. “It just makes you feel warm when you look at it.”
He’s also grateful he took God’s advice. “I see my work now as an act of worship. To use the skills and talents that God put in me. When I finally embraced it, I realized, this is my ministry!”
See more of Greg Gowen’s art at studiog7.com
Greg Gowen
by Heather Hunter
¡ viva azul !
Fiesta Azul Tequila House shakes up Albuquerque with Mexican flair
“DINING AT FIESTA AZUL is like being on vacation in Mexico—with great food, great music, great service and great energy.”
That’s what customers say of this authentic, family-owned Mexican restaurant that has gained legions of fans since opening in October 2024. But this isn’t the first location that owners and husband-and-wife team, Jose Sanchez and Albuquerque native Ivonne Orona. They have three locations in Florida and decided to open a location in Albuquerque to share their passion for homemade Mexican food and tequilas with Burqueñas. And Duke City residents and tourists are savoring all that Fiesta Azul Tequila House offers.
With 11,000 square feet and three-levels, two patios—one for summer and one for winter, a special event space that accommodates 100 people, more than 130 premium tequilas, along with mezcals and sotols (like a smoky mezcal but sweeter and combines beautifully with coffee), you feel like you are in Mexico when you enter the restaurant on Montgomery just west of Louisiana.
Using multigenerational recipes from family roots in the Mexican states of Chihuahua and Colima, the menu features typical dishes from many regions. But it’s the fresh ingredients and scratch cooking that make Fiesta Azul extra especial
With an expansive and creative menu, their top-selling
dishes are the molcajetes. Traditional mortar and pestle, molcajetes are volcanic rocks that are filled with seafood and/ or meats. This is a typical dish you find in areas throughout Mexico—though its origin is attributed to the state of Jalisco— and one that you will never forget.
Tacos are also a big hit with customers—because who doesn’t love tacos? Of course, tacos take top billing—try the steak tacos with frijoles de olla. The Plato Fuertes (main dishes) are hearty
Courtesy Fiesta Azul
Tequila House
Courtesy Fiesta Azul Tequila House
and filling with choices such as steak tampiqueña, an 8-ounce, center-cut Angus ribeye with a chicken mole enchilada, two chicken taquitos, plus rice and beans, or try the molcajete de mar for a medley of fresh-caught seafood in a rich sauce with sides of rice, beans, lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream and tortillas. “These dishes have become guest favorites for their bold flavors and standout presentation. There is a lot of prepping that goes into our food and drinks,” Orona says.
The salsa is made fresh daily, and the tomatoes, onions, serrano and jalapeno peppers, a little bit of chile poblano, and garlic are fire-roasted and blended to perfection. Additionally, the chips and the corn tortillas for tacos are also made in-house.
Her husband added, “We squeeze every lime for the margaritas and go through about twenty cases a week.” It is this attention to detail and commitment to quality that make Fiesta Azul stand out.
“Our bar is a true celebration of agave culture with selections from Oaxaca, Michoacán, San Luis Potosí and beyond,” Orona says.
Orona and Sanchez are excited to be looking for the right location to open a second Fiesta Azul, which will be the same, but a bit more upscale. “Our customers like trying a little bit of everything, so we are working on creating a tasting menu for the next location,” Sanchez says. “Little bites of this and that so they can try more dishes. We are responding to their desires and their enthusiasm and curiosity for our food is what inspires us every day.” ¡Long live this Albuquerque fiesta!
Courtesy Fiesta Azul Tequila House
by Lexi Marshall
Southwestern bubbles
NEW MEXICO’S KOMBUCHA SCENE is as distinctive as its red chile and turquoise skies. From Albuquerque’s urban breweries to Santa Fe’s artisanal taprooms, local producers are crafting gut-healthy elixirs infused with the unique flavors of the Southwest. These fermented tea beverages, rich in probiotics and bursting with regional ingredients like prickly pear and wild-harvested herbs, represent more than just a health trend—they’re a testament to New Mexico’s commitment to sustainable, locally-sourced nutrition.
For many New Mexico kombucha makers, the path to business began with personal health challenges. Julie Morrell, co-founder and head brewer of Urbanmama505 Kombucha, started her journey 15 years ago when she began using kombucha to boost her immune system and address various health issues. What started as a personal remedy quickly became a community resource when friends began offering to pay for her homemade brews.
“It is such a bottle of gold,” Morrell says. Her kombucha is crafted with premium alkalized water, creating what she describes as a cleaner, smoother product that draws more flavor from the tea while leaving trace amounts of sugar and caffeine. The health benefits extend beyond gut health, with clients reporting reduced bloating, kidney cleansing benefits and an overall sense of vitality.
Similarly, Kara Deyhle, owner of New Mexico Ferments, discovered kombucha’s healing properties in 2016 while dealing with health issues. The fermented beverages and vegetables provided significant relief, leading her to dive deep into the world of fermentation. Between jobs and living with her parents, Deyhle consumed information about kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi and other fermented foods, eventually studying brewing technology at CNM’s Brewing and Beverage Management Program to understand how to scale production.
Southwestern Flavors on Tap
New Mexico’s kombucha makers distinguish themselves through unique regional ingredients and artisanal production methods. New Mexico Ferments creates a green tea-based kombucha with lower sugar content than many commercial brands, incorporating sustainably sourced herbs and fruits with inherent health benefits. Their wildly popular prickly pear flavor showcases the desert landscape in liquid form, sourced from a supplier who sustainably wildcrafts nopal cactus pads and fruits into an incredible blend.
Urbanmama505’s standout offering is its Black Guatemalan flavor, a collaboration with Slow Burn Coffee that incorporates just “a whisper” of cold brew. This smooth, easy-drinking kombucha works perfectly as a mixer and
New Mexico’s kombucha culture
Courtesy Lost Cultures
Courtesy Urbanmama505 Kombucha
embodies Morrell’s philosophy of creating healthy alternatives to alcohol. She’s currently developing two new brews to celebrate the centennial of U.S. Route 66, adding another layer of regional significance to her offerings.
Tasting Room Experiences
New Mexico Ferments operates a tasting room at its production facility in Albuquerque; open by appointment during the week and for drop-ins on Thursday and Friday afternoons, visitors can taste all flavors and purchase refills, kegs or cans. The company has grown impressively over nine years, now distributing to more than 100 resellers across New Mexico, including all Albertsons and Market Street stores in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos.
Urbanmama505 Kombucha is available at its kombuchery and elixir bar in Albuquerque and on tap at several locations including La Montanita Co-op, the Andaluz Hilton Curio Collection, Sister (the bar) and Rio Bravo Brewery, as well as at Bedrock Kitchen. Morrell emphasizes delivery service, encouraging customers to keep a jug in the fridge for daily consumption.
Stargazer Kombucha is another well-known brewer in New Mexico, celebrated for its pure, small-batch kombucha made with wild and singleorigin ingredients. One of its most distinctive offerings is the Cota blend, brewed with wildcrafted Navajo tea—a traditional, caffeine-free herb used for generations to ease anxiety, calm the stomach and reduce fever. The result is a sweet, golden kombucha with earthy notes of pine, cucumber and rosewater. To experience it on tap, head to Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery’s Agua Fria Street location in Santa Fe, where kombucha flavors are rotated weekly. In addition to Tumbleroot, you can find Stargazer at several locations across Santa Fe and Albuquerque, including Meow Wolf’s Float Café & Bar, Cafecito, Violet Crown Cinema and Remix Audio Bar in Santa Fe; and Remedy Coffee, Michael Thomas Coffee, Campo at Los Poblanos and Lost Cultures Tea Bar in Albuquerque.
DESIGN & HOME GROUP
Just Winging Through by Paula
M. Bodah
backyard birdwatching
discover the joys of birding, without leaving home
YOU DON’T HAVE TO TRAVEL FAR to get into birdwatching. In fact, your own backyard is one of the best places to begin. With just a few simple steps, you can turn your outdoor space into a birdfriendly haven and start observing right away. Create the right environment by choosing a variety of native plants, says Pamela (PD) StClair, of Albuquerque’s Wild Birds Unlimited. Native species provide food, nesting material and shelter.
Sunflowers, thistle and native grasses like bluestem grama offer seeds that attract finches, sparrows and doves. Desert willow and milkweed draw hummingbirds. Yarrow and goldenrod support pollinators from birds and bees to butterflies, while larger trees like cottonwoods and junipers give birds a place to nest and perch. Shrubs like New Mexico olive produce fruit that many species eat.
A reliable water source is also important, especially in Albuquerque’s dry climate. A birdbath is a good start, but moving water works even better. Try adding a pump or small fountain to the birdbath for sound and motion that catch birds’ attention. “Our beloved lesser goldfinches are drawn to it,” StClair says.
You don’t need much gear to begin birdwatching,
Ripley
but a pair of binoculars and a regional field guide or two are helpful. Add a notebook to track your sightings, or use an app to help with IDs. Once you start noticing birds, it’s easy to get hooked. When you’re ready to explore beyond your yard, StClair suggests a visit to Rio Grande Nature Center State Park or Los Poblanos Fields Open Space, where feeders, native plants and peaceful observation spots welcome beginners.
Helpful Hints for Beginning Birders
Free to download from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (on the App Store or Google Play), the Merlin Bird ID app helps you identify birds by sound or photo. It’s easy to use and a great way to learn more about the birds in your yard or nearby parks.
A good guidebook is indispensable. StClair recommends two: “The Field Guide to Plants and Animals of the Middle Rio Grande Bosque,” by Jean-Luc E. Cartron, a local favorite that covers bugs, butterflies and enough bird species to make it a smart addition to any beginner’s shelf, and “Birds of New Mexico Field Guide, 2nd edition,” by Stan Tekiela, a user-friendly, photorich publication that’s a go-to resource for anyone starting to notice the birds flitting through their backyard.
LED lighting
from design flexibility to efficiency, LEDs make the grade
Lighting plays a powerful role in how a home looks and feels. LED lighting has become a wise choice for homeowners who want reliable performance, lower energy use and clean, comfortable light in every room. Unlike compact fluorescent lamps, LEDs contain no mercury, making them safer to use and easier to recycle. They also use up to 80 percent less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs. They can last between 25,000 (more than three years of run time!) and 50,000 hours, resulting in fewer replacements and less waste.
Alongside efficiency, LED lighting supports thoughtful design. One of the most adaptable options is LED strip lighting—slim, low-profile fixtures that integrate well into many spaces. These strips install cleanly into shelves, cabinetry, stair treads and architectural details, offering soft, even illumination that enhances the surrounding materials without drawing attention to the fixture.
In kitchens, strip lighting fits neatly beneath upper cabinets to brighten counters and prep areas, maintaining a modern, clutter-free appearance. In ceilings and coves, it adds a soft ambient glow that defines the room’s edges, highlighting architectural details. Staircases benefit from discreet lighting along the risers or handrails, improving visibility while adding a layered, custom feel.
This flexibility extends to bathrooms and bedrooms. Around mirrors, LED strips provide consistent, shadow-free light that helps with grooming tasks. In closets, pantries and cabinets, motion-activated strips offer hands-free illumination exactly where it’s needed. Bookshelves, headboards and builtins gain subtle backlighting that adds both function and atmosphere.
Home offices and media areas also benefit. Under-shelf lighting improves task visibility without harsh glare, while behind-screen lighting softens brightness contrast and gives the room a polished finish. Accent lighting on art, paneling or wall textures introduces depth and draws attention to key features without overpowering the space.
LED lighting also offers comfort through control. Many systems allow for adjustment of color temperature, with warmer light ideal for bedrooms and living rooms, and cooler tones better suited for kitchens and work areas. Dimmable controls and smart settings let homeowners fine-tune lighting to suit specific times of day or personal preferences.
LED strip lights can be powered in two main ways: plug-in or hardwired. Plug-in options are quick to install and perfect for flexible or low-commitment areas. Hardwired systems offer a seamless, built-in finish that works well for new construction or remodeling projects. The right choice depends on where the lighting goes and how visible or permanent it needs to be.
Not only will LED lighting add efficient task and ambient lighting to your home, but it can also create a whole new design aesthetic that highlights the beautiful details.
Carol Orona holds a master’s degree in architecture and is nationally recognized for sustainable, high-performance design. She shares practical solutions that reflect her passion for building science, comfort and inspiring others to create better homes.
A beautifully designed board game isn’t just something to pull out for game night—it’s a visual statement, a piece of functional art that elevates your space as much as your social calendar. These days, game sets are stepping away from the flimsy cardboard boxes of childhood nostalgia. Think handcrafted wood boards, sleek acrylic pieces, brushed metal accents and sculptural designs that look right at home on a coffee table or open shelving. Thoughtfully designed games don’t need to be hidden in a cabinet. They belong out in the open, styled alongside books and objets d’art. A stunning Scrabble board or a minimal chess set becomes part of the decor— inviting, intentional and deeply personal. And when guests arrive, what once felt casual now feels curated. In a design-conscious home, even play deserves polish.
Wooden Scrabble Board Game Luxury Edition, $399, potterybarn.com
Different sheens and materials can make choosing the right paint for your project a challenge
Consider hiring a professional for quick project completion and less disruption to your home. A professional painter will have the knowhow to pick the perfect paint for your home project, but if you’re DIYing it, the numerous paint options might be perplexing. Making the right choice can make all the difference in the outcome. From the perfect walls to creative cabinetry to contrasting millwork, choosing the right paint finish and type (latex, oil, acrylic) is as important as selecting the color, as it affects the look and functionality of the painted surface. Here’s a breakdown of standard paint finishes and their ideal applications:
Flat or Matte Finish
Matte finish paint has no sheen and provides a smooth, even appearance. It’s excellent for hiding surface imperfections like cracks or dents and is ideal for ceilings and low-traffic areas such as bedrooms or living rooms. However, matte is less durable and more challenging to clean, so it’s best not to use it in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas.
Eggshell Finish
Eggshell has a slight sheen, offering a balance between a matte look and some light reflectivity. It’s more durable and easier to clean than flat paint, making it great for dining rooms, living rooms and hallways, but it’s not the best option for high-touch areas such as kitchens or bathrooms.
Satin Finish
Satin provides a soft, pearly sheen. It’s more moisture-resistant and durable, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and high-traffic areas like kids’ rooms. It’s also easy to clean, which adds to its practicality.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Semi-gloss has a noticeable shine and reflects light, giving surfaces a sleek appearance. It’s highly durable and moisture-resistant, so it’s an excellent selection for trim, doors, cabinetry and bathrooms. The shiny surface is also easy to clean, though it can highlight imperfections.
Gloss and High-Gloss Finish
High-gloss paint provides a mirror-like shine and is the most durable of all finishes. It’s ideal for furniture, trim and areas that require frequent cleaning, such as kitchen cabinetry. However, it is the most reflective and can emphasize flaws on uneven surfaces. If you opt to paint these areas with a high-gloss finish, plan for proper prep work—sanding, sanding,
sanding—for a perfect finish.
Relatively speaking, the higher the sheen, the more likely you need an oil-based paint. Oil-based paint is the traditional choice for cabinetry and furniture because of its hard, durable finish and professional look. However, with this optimal selection comes longer drying time, higher VOCs (so adequate ventilation is required), and the paint requires solvents for cleaning brushes and other painting supplies. Water-based paints have improved significantly in recent years to offer better durability but still can’t match oil-based for certain high-traffic uses. However, they off-gas less and offer much easier soap-and-water cleanup. Also, for many projects, water-based enamel or hybrid paints—a combination of oil- and waterbased—can strike a balance between durability, ease of use and environmental considerations. Finally, don’t skimp on your tools—high-quality brushes and rollers are a must.
by Kate Jonuska
trampling tropes
this Western style is a genre all its own
“Modern West” by Chase Reynolds Ewald, published by and photos courtesy of Gibbs Smith, hardcover $50.
THE CONCEPT of the great American frontier is but history book fodder. That frontier’s fierce independence of spirit, however, is still alive and well in the region’s style, which today balances a celebration of Western authenticity with the need to buck even its own conventions in order to grow. Calling it “a style defined by contemporary sensibilities and regional authenticity,”
Chase Reynolds Ewald collects an illustrated and inspirational report from the front lines of this design frontier in “Modern West.”
Don’t expect this modern Western style of architecture and interior design to rely upon tropes like antler chandeliers or plaid flannels. In the “Modern West,” the exposed logs and ceilings so popular with log-cabin living are replaced with materials like planed barn wood, which adds organic warmth with cleaner lines. Rather than forest tones, designers use powerful black for woodwork and fireplaces, and they enjoy contrasting industrial materials like steel and even concrete against natural ones like copper and stone.
“It’s not that often that you see architecture pushing that envelope,” says Tim Rote of Dovetail Construction, who oversaw a featured project in the Crazy Mountains of Montana that combined exposed steel beams with reclaimed wood. Mixing old and new, hard and soft, he says, “brings a whole other meaning of timelessness to it.”
Of course, some projects in “Modern West” embrace modernism full-on, in one case creating the ultimate in clean lines by cladding 90 percent of the home’s interior in poplar paneling with no visible hardware. The TV, bar and even kitchen appliances can be hidden by poplar, as if the home was carved from a tree.
But varied as they are, all of these modern homes treat the Western landscape as a houseguest by welcoming in the view, often via steel-and-glass window walls or from multiple outdoor living spaces.
“Modernism here is not a singular aesthetic but a broad and evolving spectrum, spanning historic renovations, bold contemporary builds, and everything in between,” Ewald writes. “What unites them is a deep respect for the landscape, a pursuit of authenticity, and an understanding that a home in the West is not just about where you live, but how you choose to live.”
Audrey Hall
by Kate Jonuska
park perfection
a
coffee
table book of awe-inspiring photos celebrating America’s national parks
THE ONLY EXPERIENCE guaranteed to be better than visiting one of America’s National Parks is visiting in the company of a park employee with all the scientific facts, historical context and entertaining stories that bring the land to life. With two degrees in parks and recreation and postings throughout the American West, Jacob W. Frank is literally that passionate park ranger, and he’s now providing an impactful journey through our public lands on the page via his book, “Parklands: America’s National Parks and Public Lands.”
As beautiful and varied as our parks themselves, Frank’s stunning photography is undoubtedly the book’s main attraction. Taken over the course of his jobs with national parks and his personal travels, the collection is sorted not by location but by subject: geology, water, flora, fauna, dark skies and history. The result is a captivating mixture of images and ideas that ask the viewer to engage deeper than eye level, perhaps learn something.
For example, the chapter on dark skies explains how parklands combat artificiallight encroachment, which affects the health of both plants and animals, including humans. And from petroglyphs and cave dwellings to the National Mall and Alcatraz, Parklands’ visual examples of the beauty and breadth of the history preserved on public lands are surprising and amazing.
The best bits of the book, however, are Frank’s personal stories: spelunking through a tight cave in Carlsbad Caverns, the sound of glaciers calving into Kenai Fjords, and how a house near Yellowstone shook when a buffalo decided to scratch against the siding. These sensory details make the reader feel like they, too, have felt the quaking, heard the cracking and perhaps now they feel connected with these places as Frank does.
At the end of Parklands, the reader has taken a true journey alongside this ranger and has likely come out the other side inspired to help protect and celebrate our public lands, which are currently facing unprecedented environmental and political challenges.
“Parklands: America’s National Parks and Public Lands” by Jacob W. Frank, published by and photos courtesy of Gibbs Smith, hardcover $40.
There’s something effortlessly chic about draperies that open and close with a tap on your phone— or better yet, automatically based on your schedule. And the best part? You don’t need fancy built-in motorized rods to make it happen. Smart curtain devices now let you retrofit your existing setup, adding a layer of convenience—and a little everyday enchantment—to your home. Imagine waking up gently as morning light spills in, no alarm necessary. Or cueing up a cozy evening with blackout curtains drawing shut as your wind-down playlist kicks in. These sleek little gadgets sync with your phone or voice assistant, so you can control your window coverings without even leaving the sofa. Bonus: They’re great for privacy, energy efficiency and elevating the level of luxe in your lifestyle.
Daniel Nadelbach
heady home base
Experience the ultimate High Desert lifestyle in this incredible custom home showcasing breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains and sparkling city lights. Surrounded by endless hiking, biking and walking trails, this property perfectly blends natural beauty with comfort. The main home radiates Southwestern charm with a bright, open floor plan designed to capture the views from every angle and architectural details including striking ceilings and built ins. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and rich granite countertops. A detached casita offers exceptional versatility with its own living area featuring a cozy kiva fireplace, full kitchen and private bedroom with ensuite bath—ideal for guests or multigenerational living. Plus, an oversized 3-car, tuck-under garage completes this exceptional property.
13519 Osage Orange Rd. NE
Listing Price: $1,020,000 Dominic Serna with Keller Williams Realty, 505-319-1604, dominicjserna.com
Fotovan
home sweet getaway
Unparalleled elegance defines this prestigious gated neighborhood in The Valley. This exquisite 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence seamlessly blends timeless sophistication with modern luxury, creating a retreat-like feel. Expansive windows flood the home with natural light and overlook lush landscaping, as well as a tremendous yard featuring a heated gunite pool with a spa, waterfall, fountains, and fire pits. The gourmet chef’s kitchen— with top-tier stainless appliances including a 6-burner gas range, wall oven, microwave, warming drawer, plus a walk-in pantry, farm sink and granite countertops—flows seamlessly into a perfect-for-entertaining grand family room with a gas fireplace. The primary suite offers a private retreat, complete with a gas fireplace, tray ceiling and a picture window. It features a spa-inspired bath with a bidet and a large walk-in closet. Tile floors extend throughout, with hardwood in the bedrooms, and decorative touches, such as Schumacher wallpaper, abound.
224 Lavender Pl. NE
Listing Price: $1,450,000
Dana D. Wilson, Coldwell Banker Legacy, 505-400-4199, DanaSellsABQ.com
Late afternoon light spills like honey over the adobe walls of this Santa Fe home—a perfect moment in time. The wooden doors, weathered and proud, catch the glow, their decor whispering of autumn’s arrival. A crisp breeze stirs the aspen leaves, scattering flashes of gold against the russet stone pathway. Shadows from the pines stretch long and dappled, guiding the eye upward along the herringbone brick steps. The rocks framing the entrance retain the sun’s last heat, grounding the scene in earthy permanence. It’s a fleeting moment—where amber-colored leaves, golden light and rustic textures converge—captured just before twilight takes over.
