Sophisticated Homes Magazine_November 2019

November 2019

Spacious Move-In Ready Home in Mandeville Offered by Dawn Chiasson and Ava Marsalone

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Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

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Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

Luxury Real Estate Listings

Publisher Lorie Hollis Art Director | Graphic Design Pam Hendrix Associate Editor Jan Windhorst Production Coordinator Suzanne Lucido Administrative Manager Emily Warder Sales Manager Stephanie Norman Account Executives Angela Dutel, Amy Green and Suzanne Lucido Contributing Photographers Kiki Randon, Ken Schallenberg, Jay Theriot | Photosold and Nola Real Estate Marketing Contributing Writers Aimee Flowers, Kathleen Guidry, Casey Perrin Robert and Jan Windhorst Production Gallinghouse Marketing + Creative Distribution Manager Anthony Figaro G & A Publishing 409 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 Phone: 985-893-7350, Fax: 985-893-7686 e-mail: editor@sophisticatedhomesmagazine.com visit us at: sophisticatedhomesmagazine.com

DISTRIBUTION—Your advertisement reaches approximately 75,000* Distribution is guaranteed by direct mail plus s­upplemental pickup locations. Our upscale mailing list includes the most sought after customers in Abita Springs, Covington, Folsom, Hammond, Lacombe, Madisonville, Mandeville, Ponchatoula, Robert, Slidell and the New Orleans metropolitan area.

NOW AVAILABLE AT ROUSES MARKETS and BARNES & NOBLE *Figures based on 2.5 readers per issue. ©2019 G & A Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All measurements are approximate. Sophisticated Homes and Sophisticated Woman magazines are published by G & A Publishing, Inc., 409 W. 21st Ave., Covington, LA 70433, 985-893-7350. Reproduction of any photographs, artwork or copy is prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher. All advertised properties are subject to prior sale or withdrawal without notice.

Sophisticated Homes and Sophisticated Woman | G & A Publishing, Inc. are not registered real estate brokers and this magazine offer is not an effort to assist in the buying or selling of real estate. Neither the advertisers, Publisher nor Sophisticated Homes/Sophisticated Woman are responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints or typographic errors. Advertising in Sophisticated Homes and Sophisticated Woman magazines are limited to licensed real estate brokers and their sales associates and to developers and commercial businesses. Advertising is not available to private home sellers. Real estate advertised in this magazine is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and its amendments. This magazine will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Dwellings advertised in this magazine are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

Joann Lawson Lawson Luxury | Keller Williams Realty Services

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MEET THE REALTOR

JOANN LAWSON IS right at home as the Director of the Luxury Division for Keller Williams Realty Services as both she and the company share similar business values and understand the importance of state-of-the-art technology. At the core of Keller Williams Realty is a conviction that who you are in business with matters. Keller Williams views itself as a technology company with a real estate platform and Lawson feels her greatest strength is proficiency in social media and marketing. Together they are a perfect match: local expertise, global exposure and world class service.

Lawson’s experience and connections are varied but complement each other perfectly to provide ideal qualities that clients look for in a Realtor. She studied design, earned her credentials as a CPA and has worked with husband Lance, a custom builder at a high-end design-build firm. Lawson says that Realtors should understand finance, know design trends that make properties marketable, and be able to research listings to decipher what is best for clients. Lawson combines all of these skills with high-energy customer service to provide the complete package.

Lawson grew up in New Orleans and has lived on the Northshore for over 10 years. With experience serving clients throughout the area, she says her style mirrors that of her clientele: high-end, sophisticated buyers, sellers and entrepreneurs who seek assistance with residential and investment properties. Because of her background and experience, she is confident in her ability to assist those with specific needs.

Through research and creative negotiating Lawson is proud of her ability to make things happen.

Lawson says she has a talent for finding that special quality in each property she represents.

Like a jeweler, she looks at each facet of a property, finds its unique offerings and makes it shine like a diamond. With her command of social media and Keller Williams International Network, she offers the best of both worlds—connecting with people and connecting with technology—to find the perfect home.

Keller Williams Realty Services 1522 W. Causeway Approach • Mandeville office: 985-727-7000 | cell: 504-237-7020 lawsonluxury@kw.com facebook.com/joannlawsonrealtor Each office independently owned and operated.

Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

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Let2RealtorsWork4U: Real Estate Resource Group DAWN CHIASSON AND AVA MARSALONE met at a real estate sales meeting. Ava was new to the company, and Dawn was welcoming. Shortly after their first introduction, Ava found herself on a mini road trip to Kentwood with Dawn. It turned out that Dawn had an opportunity to sell one of her listings and needed an agent to represent the buyer, and Ava was flattered that she was the “chosen one!”

Time passed, and Ava had an opportunity to help out Dawn with an open house event. While she was putting out signs advertising the open house that morning, Ava realized she could no longer feel the right side of her body. She vanished from the scene and headed to the hospital. Ava later texted Dawn, apologizing that she was in the hospital, but promised to talk later.

In the summer of 2019, Dawn and Ava got to catch up and reconnect. After some productive brainstorming, they decided business would be so much better if they got together to form Let2RealtorsWork4U. Dawn and Ava united to form a team of agents for buyers and sellers to rely on. They want clients to feel taken care of completely. By teaming up, they bring clients their combined strengths, resources and connections. Their philosophy is that two agents working for you is much better than one.

AVA MARSALONE UNDERSTANDS FAMILIES' NEEDS

In 2002, while attending the University of New Mexico, Ava Marsalone began her career working as an estate transaction coordinator. After graduating with a BA in Mass Communications and Journalism, she moved to Scottsdale, worked in insurance, married, and began her family. Over just a few years, her family bought and sold houses in three different states. Today, Ava understands the stress of relocation and also enjoys working with long-time residents. She brings her passion for sales, communication, mediation and understanding families’ needs to help clients achieve their goals. Ava is a licensed Realtor® in Louisiana and knows the importance of schools, churches, and shopping in order to find the right coummunity fit for her clients. Rearing active eleven and seven-yearolds, she knows that bus stops and swim clubs are sometimes more important than counter tops. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her children, yoga, listening to live music and dining out.

DAWN CHIASSON MAKES HER CLIENTS' DREAMS A REALITY

Dawn Chiasson is a multi-talented individual who is not afraid to tackle any situation. She says she is relentless in her pursuit of making her clients’ dreams a reality. She has researched land records to clear an issue blocking a transaction as well as participated in council meetings lobbying for beneficial changes affecting her client’s future home. Dawn is a seasoned negotiator with extensive experience in the legal and real estate industry. She is skilled in commercial/ residential sales and leasing as well as large portfolio management. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, is a licensed Realtor® in the states of Louisiana and Mississippi, and a Notary Public in the parishes of St. Tammany and Tangipahoa. When she is not working, Dawn spends time with Blake, her husband of 35 years, on their family farm where they raise cows, horses and chickens.

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Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

1043 Scarlet Oak • Mandeville, LA | 3,051 SF | $439,500 This beautiful and well-maintained 5 bedroom/3.5 bath home welcomes you with lush green foliage, large columns and gas lanterns. This home is move-in ready and is centrally located in The Woodlands subdivision. The extra large kitchen is designed for entertaining and is complete with a center island, granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances. Settle into the spacious living room that provides high ceilings and lots of natural light, or step out of the french doors from the master suite for a quiet morning on the backyard patio.

MLS #2208505

DAWN CHIASSON 985-264-8141

AVA MARSALONE 985-630-2485

dchiasson@rerg.com

ava@rerg.com

Real Estate Resource Group 90 Louis Prima Drive, Suite A • Covington 985-898-5888 | rerg.com Each office is independently owned and operated. Licensed in Louisiana.

Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

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INTERESTED IN BUYING O R S E L L I N G ? L E T ’ S TA L K .

79213 Albert Thompson Road • Folsom, | 5,040 | $2,675,000 15402 Milliot Lane • Covington, LA LA | 7,460 SF |SF$1,875,000 From majestic oaks to the sandy beaches of the Little Tchefuncte, this 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath gorgeous 34-acre retreat has everything needed for a distinguished way of life. The main house, designed by famed architect Arthur Middleton, features gorgeous views of the salt water pool, pond, 100 yr old guest house, pool house, dog kennels & chicken coop. Car enthusiasts will love the Garage-Mahal featuring a three-bay garage with car lifts & apartment.

Pole barn located on a large field that can be used for livestock, aviation, events and more!

MLS #2196013

JENNIFER RICE 985-892-1478

ELIZABETH WESTERVELT 985-400-8717

jennifer@jenniferrice.net jenniferrice.net

elizabethwesterveltsells@gmail.com berkshirehathawayhs.com

Jennifer Rice Luxury Collection JENNIFERRICE.NET 1321 West Causeway Approach Mandeville • 985-951-2324 1321 West Causeway•Approach Mandeville, LA • 985.951.2324

independently owned and operated.

Each officeEach is office independently owned and operated.

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

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I N T E R E S T E D I N B U Y I N G O R S E L L I N G ? L E T ’ S TA L K . 9 8 5 . 9 6 6 .1 3 2 1

feature column

HOME STAGING FOR PREMIUM RESULTS

Organized Impressions is an Award-Winning, Certified & Insured full-service home staging design firm specializing in marketing the interior of a property for sale.

Your Guide to Decluttering Your Home Before Selling WRITTEN BY AIMEE FLOWERS, HOME BEAUTIFUL SOLUTIONS

EVERYONE KNOWS THAT

selling your

home is no easy task! Here are some decluttering tips to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.

As a boutique lifestyle staging firm we are catering to home sellers on the Northshore looking for a competitive marketing edge when selling real estate.

ORGANIZEDIMPRESSIONS.COM

504-421-2569

To start, take decluttering room by room or even start with a smaller space. Commit to a few hours a week until you have completed the process in each room and can get your house for sale on your desired date.

Set up boxes marked to keep, store, donate or trash. Keep garbage bags handy for unexpected trash. It is always helpful to do your research.

Know the proper places to donate your things.

Research storage units, pricing and determine approximate length of time you’ll need the unit in order to stay within your budget.

While decluttering, keep in mind your new space. Are you downsizing or moving to a bigger home? This information can help determine how much you keep or get rid of. And, yes, this process can be emotional. Try to ask yourself if it’s been more than a year since you’ve used something.

If so, you can get rid of it more easily knowing someone else might have a greater need for it.

And lastly, make every attempt not to buy new things before you sell your house, this will keep your moving hassles to a minimum.

Remember, not all junk is good for a landfill and not everything is good for donations. Working with a home organizer or junk removal company will make these decisions much easier.

Aimee Flowers is the owner of Home Beautiful Solutions, a full-service junk removal and professional organizing company serving the Northshore and the Greater New Orleans area. For more information, call 985-788-3665 or visit homebeautifulsolutions.com.

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15402 Milliot Lane • Covington, LA | 7,460 SF | $1,875,000 This stunning home features 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths and 2 half baths and is positioned on a 1.34 acre lot. Skillfully designed with classic elegance, it is located in the privately gated Tchefuncte Trace subdivision near schools, businesses and all amenities. The magnificent open floorplan features a spacious gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry and custom cabinets, luxurious counter tops, state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances, enhanced moldings, travertine floors, gas range and Sub Zero refrigerator. The master suite has a large custom closet with built-ins, a spacious ensuite spa bath and exercise room. Perfect for entertaining, this home has a custom grand theater, spectacular wine room and a game room with wet bar. The exquisite outdoor area showcases an inground heated pool with lanai and a brick outdoor kitchen with fireplace. The lush landscaping surrounding the property is equipped with an irrigation system.

MLS #2210133

Newfield Realty Group

BRENDA NEWFIELD 504.228.6500

1011 N. Causeway Blvd, #32 • Mandeville 504.228.6500

brenda@newfieldrealtygroup.com newfieldrealtygroup.com Sophisticated Homes | November 2019 11

A Well-Designed Heavenly Haven WRITTEN BY CASEY PERRIN ROBERT PHOTOS BY KIKI RANDON

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on the cover

ALICIA RILEY’S DAUGHTER tricked her into hiring a decorator.

One day, early in the process of building her new home, daughter Bailey invited her mother to go shopping at Southern Luxe Interiors in Covington. As they walked through the store, their conversation about the merchandise became a chat with owner Patti Brondum about her interior design services, and a beautiful partnership blossomed.

“This was our fifth home to build, and the others were so hard for me,” Alicia said about her decision to use an interior designer for the first time. “I was always scared to commit to something; I’d keep shopping until I got so confused that I didn’t know what to do. Patti helped me avoid that situation this time.”

Since the home was just being framed when Patti, along with daughter Courtney, signed on to the project, they were able to assist in finishes and materials selection from the start. Beginning at the front entrance and continuing throughout the home, a cool, soothing palette of white-on-white with pale grays mixed in, provides a contemporary backdrop for semi-traditional furnishings and select antiques. This serves their original goal of mixing old with new. The result is a stunningly elegant home that flows beautifully from one room to the next.

The Riley’s move back to Louisiana after a years-long absence was made even sweeter by the recent birth of their first grandchild and inspired a focus on local elements for both homeowner and designers. Local artist Ali Giles was commissioned to paint a swamp scene that serves as the focal point of the living room, hanging right next to the fireplace. This piece was a surprise to Alicia from Patti and Courtney, and as all good art should do, it punctuates the space perfectly. On installation day, the design team banned the homeowners from the home for the whole day while they worked for hours to bring in all the furniture, accessories, and art pieces. Having worked for fourteen months Sophisticated Homes | November 2019 13

From the front entry through to the back, a cool, soothing palette of white-on-white complemented with pale grays beautifully provides a contemporary backdrop perfect for semi-traditional furnishings and select antiques.

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on selecting pieces and putting them into storage while construction was completed, it was a joyous moment of relief for Alicia and her husband to see everything come together.

Throughout the home, majestic, vintage wood gives bones to the structure. The floors are over a century old, reclaimed from a distillery in Kentucky, and were refinished with a simple linseed oil technique that reveals the character and incredible color of the aged wood. The barn doors used in the master suite are also made of aged timbers, adding a textural element to the soft space.

The spacious master bathroom is unquestionably the centerpiece of the home, and the incredible trust between designers and client contributes greatly to making such a beautiful space come to life. Patti and Courtney had the concept for the open, Turkish-style shower, and Alicia put her full confidence in them to make it work for her home. The four columns that form the custom shower are clad in porcelain tile from top to bottom, needing no sealing or maintenance at all. The glass accent tile twinkles in the light, and the creamy White Rhino marble counters sit perfectly as the backdrop for the space. Using classic, polished nickel plumbing fixtures gives a timeless, almost old-world feel and a jewelry-like sparkle within the shower itself. Multiple jets and a rainfall shower hanging from above make this the crowning glory of the home.

The chandelier over the freestanding tub is the cherry on top of the sundae.

At the very end of the project, designers Patti and Courtney were rewarded with the legendary phrase that every designer dreams of hearing: “You were right.� Even more than that satisfaction, though, is the knowledge that lifelong friendships have blossomed from this fantastic project.

Southern Luxe Interiors is located at 19380 N. 2nd Street in Covington. For more information, call 985-900-2221 or visit southernluxeinterior.com.

Sophisticated Homes Homes || November November 2019 2019 15 15 Sophisticated

EST. 19 3 8

Celebrating 80 years!

The Doerr Furniture family is thrilled to bring quality, style, and exceptional customer service to the Northshore. From handcrafted solid wood bedroom suits to custom slip cover sofas, Doerr Furniture takes pride in offering furniture that not only stands the test of time, but fits your unique taste and style. Meet with one of our talented design consultants and let us help make your dreams of a beautiful home come to life.

“

To say that we have been open for 80 years, and that we are on our fourth generation of ownership is an incredible honor. Our passion for service and finest quality furniture continues with the opening of our second location in Covington.

Doerr Furniture - Covington

1645 N. Hwy 190 | (985) 900-2425

�

Doerr Furniture - New Orleans

914 Elysian Fields Ave. | (504) 947-0606 DoerrFurniture.com

16 Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

- Shane Mutter, CEO

333 Dummyline Road • Madisonville, LA | 3,339 SF - Main House | $1,400,000 This grand estate is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Madisonville. Designed by renowned architect George Hopkins, this stately home is comprised of a 3,339 square foot main house with an additional two cottages that overlook a saltwater pool and an outdoor entertaining oasis.

The main home features 100-year-old antique pine floors and consists of 4 bedrooms with an optional office and 3.5 baths. The gourmet kitchen includes Wolf appliances, a spacious island and a wine pantry. The tranquil master suite offers a spa-like experience in the Kohler whirlpool tub and separate jetted rain shower. Custom closets offer many storage options in all of the bedrooms. In addition, a fully-equipped cottage provides a lovely space for guests or can be used as a quaint mother-in-law suite. Another guest house provides space for a private office or can be designed with additional guests in mind. These cottages are not included in the square footage of the main home. An aggregate walking path flows around the professionally landscaped grounds. This home is filled with amenities galore!

SUSAN AMEEN 504-481-8255

LINDA JAMES 985-788-3876

thequeen@kw.com kw.com/kw/agent/thequeen

linda.james@kw.com linda-james.kw.com

Keller William Realty Services 1522 West Causeway Approach • Mandeville 985-727-7000 Each office is independently owned and operated. Licensed in Louisiana.

Sophisticated Homes | November 2019 17

333 Dummyline Road Equisite. Traditional. Inviting.

PHOTOS BY KEN SCHALLENBERG

AS THE LOVELY, winding driveway lead Keller Williams Agents Susan Ameen and Linda James onto a Madisonville estate of nearly two acres surrounding an exquisite, traditional manor, they knew they were beholding something extraordinary. Eleven years ago, Susan was involved in the original acquisition of the property, then a red brick Georgian style house. However, as they approached, they found a newly-renovated, stately, gray-brick beauty transformed by renowned Architect George Hopkins. Even the functional storm shutters were beautiful with iron hook closures. Inside, many more delights awaited!

They entered through double, solid Mahogany doors surrounded by leaded glass sidelights and an arched fan transom. Once inside, the details unfolded reflecting the architectural design of a true New Orleans-style home. Multitiered crown molding and 12” baseboards add grandeur to the home that feels refined and elegant; yet the 100-year old antique pine floors are invitingly warm. A sophisticated foyer leads to the family room which is home to a mastercraftsman-designed, sinker cypress, lighted bookcase flanking a wood-burning brick fireplace. Custom moldings surround three windows overlooking the pool and entertainment area, and a set of French doors leads to an outdoor paradise.

The family room opens to a grand dining room with a stately table, antique furniture and silk drapery, setting the stage for many memorable gatherings to come. Most of the furniture is custom designed by Master Craftsman Greg Arceneaux to function and show beautifully.

The kitchen area is a cook’s dream-come-true boasting a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf convection oven/microwave, Wolf 6-burner cooktop and griddle housed beautifully in antique white cabinetry. For contrast, the large island is stained a dark espresso color, with complementary granite countertops bringing the style together. A leaded glass window provides a bright view over a gorgeous, copper sink, and a stained-glass window is the backdrop for a large breakfast/eating area. Through lovely glass doors is a bonus room with bath that can be used as a bedroom, office, playroom, or sitting room.

Even the laundry room is inviting. The cabinetry and granite countertops lend beauty to this working area of the house that also houses the controls to an indoor/outdoor surround sound system.

Antique cypress and iron doors serve as a gateway into the hall of bedrooms.

The master suite has a breathtaking view of the pool and grounds. The chandelier hanging from the tray ceiling and the custom roman shades add to the serene feel of the room. The partially stained glass window over the garden whirlpool tub offers another beautiful view of the pool. Double sinks with limestone countertops and a large rain shower with body jets creates an at-home spa.

Beyond the main home, a tropical oasis awaits. An enormous wisteria arbor blooms aside a 16’ x 40’ saltwater pool with copper, lion-head fountains facing a guest house which is a replica of the main home. Nearby is a raised cottage with a front porch which could be an office or additional guest quarters.

Both cottages are nestled along a meandering, aggregate foot path, which landscape architect Brett Szczepanski created as a space for quiet reflection and rest. A flagstone outdoor cooking and entertaining area completes this incredibly picturesque outdoor haven.

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Susan Ameen Keller Williams Realty Services SUSAN AMEEN HAS been a Top Producing Realtor with Keller Williams for more than 15 years. Having personally moved more than 30 times both within the U.S. and abroad, Susan understands that the buying and selling process can be stressful and emotional. She strives to provide total care from concept to completion.

While specializing in luxury homes and investment purchases, Susan is happy to assist anyone at any time with their real estate needs. First-time home buyers hold an especially dear place in her heart.

Prior professional endeavors include sales, the arts and ministry. Susan and her husband Ken Bowers make their home in Old Mandeville and love to entertain and travel.

Keller Williams Realty Services 1522 W. Causeway Approach • Mandeville

office: 504-237-7000 | cell: 504-481-8255 thequeen@kw.com | kw.com/kw/agent/thequeen Each office is independently owned and operated. Licensed in Louisiana.

Linda James Keller Williams Realty Services LINDA JAMES IS a native of St. Bernard Parish and has lived in several areas of New Orleans, but she has called Mandeville home for many years.

She has worked in the insurance industry and as a court reporter before returning to school to earn her bachelor’s degree. Linda lived in Malaysia for four years and also moved to Houston temporarily when her children were young. She has personally experienced local, out-of-state, and international moves, and she understands what goes into finding your dream home. Linda is also a real estate investor and is experienced in the management of rental properties. She is married and has two adult children. Linda loves to travel and entertain and also enjoys interior decorating and designing floor plans.

Keller Williams Realty Services 1522 W. Causeway Approach • Mandeville office: 504-237-7000 | cell: 985-778-3876 linda.james@kw.com | linda-james.kw.com

Each office is independently owned and operated. Licensed in Louisiana.

Sophisticated Homes | November 2019 19

WORKPLACE REIMAGINED

Come see our new home in Downtown Covington where we specialize in designing how you work. w w w . g r e e n l e a fl a w s o n . c o m

404 e. gibson street, suite 1 covington, la 70433 20 Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

Saying "Yes" To A Christwood Lane Cottage PHOTOS BY KIKI RANDON

KAREN DEPP HAS moved more than a dozen times in her life, but never before has she thought of relocation as liberating.

“Moving to a Christwood Lane Cottage is the best thing I ever could have done,” she says. “I feel liberated here. I have everything I want. And I no longer have the maintenance responsibilities of my former one-and-a-half acres, pool and pond. I love this place, and I’ve enjoyed making it my own. I couldn’t say no to my new home because Christwood said yes to every change I asked for.”

Other than the usual new paint job, Karen installed custom ceramic tile throughout, added a fireplace, redesigned her kitchen, added a pantry and turned her entire back yard into a large patio. “The kitchen is important to me because I love to cook, and also because I test recipes for Leite’s Culinaria. It’s just something I enjoy doing.”

Karen also converted one of her three bedrooms into a bright, airy art studio. Her paintings and some of her childrens’ art hang throughout the house.

I " love this place, and I ’ve enjoyed making it my own."

Sophisticated Homes | November 2019 21

gardening

We Lead You on the Path to Home Ownership

Why Not Plant An Herb Garden?

WRITTEN BY KATHLEEN GUIDRY, ST. TAMMANY PARISH MASTER GARDENER

Northshore Lending Group, LLC 800 North Causeway Blvd., Suite 2B in Mandeville Cell: 985.276.0830 |Office: 985.231.2443 Fax: 985.772.7303 | crystal@nlgloans.com CRYSTAL REESE NMLS 198358

nlgloans.com

HAVE YOU EVER considered growing an herb garden? This might be the year to start one... yes, even in the fall. The aromas of different herbs are wonderful. You could grow enough to make a few special tea bags, experiment with the wonderful essential oil trend that is gaining popularity or enjoy new herbs and spices in cooking and baking. The soft, fleshy green parts of the plant are considered the herbs and the other parts (the stems and seeds, etc.) are the spices.

The months between September and February are considered the cool season for herbs and most can even tolerate the freezes we get down here in the deep south. Lemon balm can thrive the entire year or for many years as can chives, rosemary and oregano. In fact, perennial herbs like these are usually planted in the fall to give them a chance to get good and strong before the stifling days of our summers.

Rather than attempting to grow plants from seeds on your first try, buy a few starter plants from your favorite garden store. Pick out a few that you really like to smell. You will find that herbs aren’t too fussy about where you plant them, and most can even survive through the care of novice gardeners. You can get planting tips from the LSU AgCenter website at www.lsuagcenter.com. When you feel the urge to start picking a few to use, try to make your cut close to a leaf intersection to ensure rapid regrowth.

SmoketreeLandscape.com

985.792.0678 Custom Landscape Design, Installation & Maintenance

If the idea of a separate garden seems overwhelming to you, grow a few in pots and place around your existing garden. Next year you will likely feel the urge to expand and possibly create a new garden that is solely dedicated to herbs.

Happy Gardening!

22 Sophisticated Homes | November 2019

Find YOUR NICHE

at Niche Modern Home

sofas • chairs • dining • gifts • candles • louisiana inspired • lighting • rugs • local artwork • side tables • prints • pillows • mirrors • picture frames

Located in The Market at Chenier next to Greenleaves Subdivision.

1901 Hwy 190, Suite 3, Mandeville • 985-624-4045 Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-6pm

www.nichemodernhome.com

Shading Places Custom Draperies | Plantation Shutters Blinds | Shades | Bedding 20 Years of Experience Free In-home Design Services

Jennifer Pacione 985-373-4134 | jennpacione@icloud.com Sophisticated Homes | November 2019 23

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