Louisville Homes & Gardens: March 2021

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Sophistication

FREE Virtual or In-Home Design Consultations Available

FREE Virtual or In-Home Design Consultations Available

Call (502) 489-3901 for a free virtual or in-home design consultation or visit us online at closetfactory.com

Call (502) 489-3901 for a free virtual or in-home design consultation or visit us online at closetfactory.com

Showroom: 13010 Eastgate Park Way, Suite 107, Middletown, KY 40223

Showroom: 13010 Eastgate Park Way, Suite 107, Middletown, KY 40223

©2021 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.

©2021 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.

Sophistication

Malissa

Amanda

Whitehall MANSION

LOUISVILLE’S HISTORIC WHITEHALL HOUSE AND GARDENS Hosts Wonderful Weddings, Events

You may have seen the sign on Lexington Road, but many have not had the pleasure of walking through the elaborate house and gardens of Whitehall. Now, part of the Historic Homes Foundation, it’s used to host weddings and occasions of all kinds.

Carol Grisanti, Associate Director, gave Tops Louisville a tour of the renowned event space.

BY TAYLOR RILEY INTERIOR PHOTOS BY TIM FURLONG JR. COURTESY EXTERIOR PHOTOS

HISTORY

The 6,000-acre lot Whitehall sits on was once given to a resident by King George III, says Carol, but it was then split into a 341-acre tract known as the Spring Station Tract. Beals Branch, a tributary of Beargrass Creek, ran through the property, which was subdivided into 20-acre lots in 1849, after the Shelbyville Turnpike was built, giving access to the acreage. The original home was a modest red-brick, Italianate-style built by John Marshall. For its first 50 years, the home had many owners, and there were four rooms on the first floor and four rooms on the second. In 1909, the home was purchased by John Middleton, a successful horseman and entrepreneur, and his wife Betty, who supervised the renovations.

By 1909, the house began to resemble the current home; it was added to on all sides, including the front porch complete with fluted columns and the raised to 14-foot ceilings on the first floor, and lowered to 10 feet on the second floor. The Middletons lived in the home until 1924, according to Carol, when

they sold it to Hume Logan, president of the Logan Company, a fence and steel business, and his wife Susan. The middle child of the Logans’ five children, Hume purchased the home shortly after the death of his parents in the late 1940s. He held lavish parties at the property until his death at age 94 in 1992. Hume bequeathed the home and much of

his collection of French and American antiques to the Historic Homes Foundation. It was important to Hume that the house was open to the public, according to Carol, so now the home hosts tours, corporate and private events, and weddings. “Hume did not want it to be a museum,” Carol says. “It was intended to be used by the public.”

TOUR

The outside of Whitehall is a plantation-style, white, columned home with two structures in the back. The original house had a back door opposite of the front door to allow a breeze to come through on hot summer days; the stained-glass windows were manufactured in Chicago by the same company that made windows for Frank Lloyd Wright’s home. Entering the Central Hallway, visitors notice the many mirrors Hume collected, including a gold leaf with hand-painted porcelain inserts above the entry table. The pier table, sometimes referred to as a petticoat table, in the hallway is from a Speed Art Museum collection. Many light fixtures throughout the home are electric, converted from gas, and the hallway fixture has a flame catcher to once keep the ceiling clean. An elaborate, burled walnut grandfather clock from the 1760s that has rocking ships to strike the hour was placed in the entryway.

Turning right, you’ll enter the Blue Parlor, which once served as the family’s library. On one wall sits a portrait of Hume Logan, Jr. from 1953; Logan served in the Navy in World War II and retired as Lieutenant Commander. The candelabra on the mantel are from a church altar, and one will also notice the grapevine, wheat shaft and lilies, all symbols of communion. The center and side tables in this room are referred to as Boule and are inlaid on tortoiseshell. The chandelier in the Blue Parlor is on loan to the home from a local family; it dates to about 1850 and has a Scottish influence in the thistle with dragons, according to Carol.

On the opposite side of the hall is the Double Parlor, which was once two separate rooms before the Middletons removed the wall between them and added Greek revival-style columns. The parlor set is from a French family who brought the furniture to the U.S. in the 1890s, and it’s a reproduction in the style of Louis XV. The piano is from the 1860s, and made by John Broadwood and Sons of London, and was purchased from New Orleans in 1994. On the other side of the wall is the Yellow Parlor, which holds furniture made of rosewood and attributed to J & J. W. Meeks in the Stanton Hall pattern. The mantel in this room was collected by Hume and is Italian marble from the old Ford Mansion that was once downtown; a second one from this location is in the dining room.

Krystal Jarrell Premiere Cleaning

(502) 454-6243

LOUISVILLEPREMIERECLEANERS.COM

In these days especially, the importance of cleanliness can’t be emphasized enough.

Luckily, Krystal Jarrell and her team at Premiere Cleaning are expertly qualified to properly clean your home, office, restaurant, school, store or manufacturing company.. With 34 years in business, Premiere is a nonfranchise, locally owned company. They are trusted in this region by companies like the YMCA, JCPS, Merkley Kendrick Jewlers, Starbucks, and Walgreens. Premiere has received special ISSA certification for the Coronavirus. “Not only can we respond to the virus, we can help prevent it” says Krystal.

Krystal brings a personal touch to her work. Her motto is, Your time is valuable, Our time is available. “I listen to my clients and truly get to know what they are seeking, whether I meet with them in their home or over the phone,” says Krystal. “I provide a sophisticated yet affordable approach, creating the perfect cleaning plan based on their wants and needs.”

Through the Double Parlor is a large open hallway that was originally a mudroom, but was changed into a powder room in the 1950s. The wallpaper in the main areas on the first and second floors was reproduced based on fragments found during the early 1990s renovations. The dining room table with 7 leaves and 12 chairs is American Empire style and heirlooms from the Logan family. The chandelier in this room is made from Czech glass, and the French doors lead to the “courting porch,” which was screenedin during the early 20th Century. This room leads to the Butler’s Pantry and Kitchen, now a commercial kitchen for events.

Upstairs are the Rose, Logan and East bedrooms, as well as the Sitting Room. The Rose room holds a half-canopy bed from New Orleans with extensions on each post at the foot of the bed that can be raised to support a mosquito net to be draped over the bed. The Logan Bedroom was once home to Mr. and Mrs. Hume Logan Sr., and the East Bedroom offers the best close-up view of Whitehall’s signature columns. The dresser in the East Bedroom was said to have been made in 1876 to celebrate the U.S. Centennial. The Sitting Room was used as Hume Logan’s bedroom but was later used as a meeting room and, now, a parlor.

The Empire Room, also upstairs, was used as a den by Hume. The furniture was designed and built by Bittners, a Louisville interior design company, in the style of Napoleon III. The details on the arms of the chairs were created by local sculptor Barney Bright. The wallpaper in this room was updated to a French, hand-blocked style with bees, the symbol of the Napoleonic Empire.

OUTSIDE

The Carriage House at the end of the parking lot was built in 1920 and is now used as a garage and apartment. The smokehouse, to the right of the Carriage House, was once used to smoke meats. The lush Formal Garden is a romantic setting for weddings. The terrace, adjacent to the Formal Garden, is used for open-air or tented receptions. Outdoor restroom facilities, fully air-conditioned and heated, are available to guests as part of the rental of the grounds and gardens.

David H. Green

With the motto "Life is short, art is forever," David H. Green creates beautifully versatile art combining many styles. His areas of great expertise include but are not limited to faux-finishes, murals, and custom Christmas decorations for private homes and businesses. "There is so much art to learn and so little time to learn it in," he says, clarifying the

edict that he lives by. "In other words, I'm still learning. People ask me if I'm starving for food because of my business name. I tell them no, I only starve for inspiration."

David uses his art to share communication and feelings, hoping that they can get on the same wavelength. "I want others to see thousands of words in my art," he says.

Photo by Jolea Brown | David’s outfit furnished by Evolve: The Men’s Resale Store / Hank Bullitt

Wedding parties often get ready in the mansion and hold the ceremony and reception outside, thus Hume’s wish for the space to be open to the public is realized. For more information on Whitehall, go to historicwhitehall.org 

DD

design & dwell Interiors

Our Interior Design strategy is about Personality, Partnership and Psychology. Our team of seasoned designers are trained in a scientific system of home design that incorporates psychology of visual perceptions and emotions in partnership with personalities to create beautifully unique spaces for our clients.

the pro to know

Amy Wagner

OF REFLECTIONS

OF YOU, BY AMY

BY TAYLOR RILEY PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER

I nspired by “Sweetie Pie,” her grandmother, Amy Wagner became a professional home stager for her company Reflections of You, by Amy in 2008. In just a few years, she’s hit the ground running and become an award-winning interior designer. Now, she’s expanded her business by becoming a realtor with Kraft Fine Homes, brokered by eXp Realty.

In 2012, Amy designed her first Homearama Showcase Home, approaching the project through the eyes of a stager; the goal was to sell the house. Due to this approach, the home sold within three days, and Amy was also awarded the Favorite Interior Designer of the show. In 2015, after years of working with contractors on kitchen and bath remodels, Amy decided to start A & K Home Services as a general contractor where she now runs the crews for remodeling projects. It was a natural fit for Amy to expand and get her real estate license in October 2020, now working with Kraft Fine Homes, brokered by eXp Realty.

Amy adds value to the customer’s experience by dealing with all layers of the buying, design and remodeling world. If a client is interested in selling their home, she first goes with them, room by room, through a walkthrough. Her goal is to help create a turn-key listing for potential buyers, which means they can move and live in the house right away, eliminating future projects. The company can replace countertops, paint, stage, and more; Amy says clients can use her company as much or as little as they want, but she will see the project from beginning to end.

Reflections of You, by Amy offers 6,000-square-feet of furniture and accessories to stage vacant homes, or they can provide decluttering and pre-packing services to better showcase the home. “I tell clients, ‘Keep in mind, we are selling the house, not your pretty things,’' Amy says. So, she focuses on architectural features and the focal points for buyers, including staging, updating and listing the home for the current owner. When clients follow Amy’s plan, she says she can sell their home faster and for top dollar.

For more information on Reflections of You, by Amy, go to AmyWagnerDesigns.com. For more on hiring Amy as your agent with Kraft Fine Homes/eXp Realty, go to amyfinehomes.com.

Now, Amy’s reputation precedes her. She’s featured on a local home improvement show, Kraft Fine Homes Luxury Showcase of Homes (airs at 2:30 p.m. Sunday on WBNA), in multiple magazines, as well as on other marketing avenues like social media. Because of her great reputation in the community and with clients, Amy doesn’t put her name on a property unless it is move-in ready. “The proof is in the pudding,” she says.

Amy knows her stuff, too. She holds a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Louisville, and certification in Expert

Psychological Staging, so she can eliminate the emotional triggers in a home that will push away or draw in potential buyers.

Amy says the quality of her advice and services is what set her apart from other companies. When a client lists a property with Amy and Kraft Fine Homes, she charges a flat staging rate that the homeowner can waive until closing. When she’s taking on a customer as a buying agent, Amy eliminates questions they might have on remodeling costs, so they understand completely what they’re looking at financially, then she hires a team for the

renovation. Amy’s company can furnish the home, provide window treatments, area rugs, appliances and more. “I can help as much or as little as you want,” she says.

Amy says she wants to take the stress out of the process of buying and selling. She feels great when someone sells their home based on her advice. “(It’s the) icing on the cake, the rewarding feeling that I get when I’ve helped sell their house fast and for top dollar,” she says. “If you follow my plan, it will sell for top dollar and fast. There’s a value in the advice I give folks.” 

DO YOU EVER WONDER HOW THE PERFECT AD alwayS SEEMS TO FIND YOU? THERE IS A METHOD TO THE MADNESS. WITH TARGETED DISPLAY ADS, YOU CAN PRECISELY PINPOINT CUSTOMERS DEMOGRAPHICALLY, GEOGRAPHICALLY and GENERATE TRACKABLE LEADS.

Targeted display advertising uses static images and video of various sizes to display advertisements on websites and apps while users surf the web. Targeted display advertising is digital marketing that targets potential customers based on a wide set of variables, such as demographics, online habits and interests. Unlike Pay Per Click (PPC) or Cost Per Click (CPC) advertising, targeted display advertising is charged by the impression (CPM) and not by how many people clicked on the banners.

TACTICS MATTER

The first step to kick off your targeted display campaign is identifying your business goals and determining which tactics are most relevant to your campaign. In most cases, campaigns will use a blend of tactics, such as:

ENHANCE YOUR WEBSITE’S SKIM-ABILITY:

• Site Retargeting – This tactic targets users who have visited your website. This is important because there’s a higher chance of conversion with someone who has already shown an interest in your product or service.

• Search Retargeting – People searching for specific keywords and/or phrases will be targeted with your banners. The keywords selected are based on search volume and relevance to the campaign.

• Contextual – Targets ads next to relevant content on a website

• Geo-Fencing – Targets people who visit specific physical locations, such as your competitor’s store or events happening in your city. Once a person enters the geo-fence, they can be targeted through their mobile device for up to 30 days.

• Advanced Audience Targeting – Combination of demographic and behavioral information used to target ads.

The blend of tactics used in a campaign depends on the needs and goals of your business. Each campaign is uniquely designed to optimize your budget and provide the best results. The key is knowing your company and the audience you want to reach.

It’s incredible how much we can now do and are doing for our clients. We have the capabilities of any ad agency or digital agency can offer! to

Miller’s Creates a Custom Kitchen for a Louisville Family Who Lost Everything

BY TAYLOR RILEY • COURTESY PHOTOS

Cindy Green’s Alta Vista home was once a beautifully crafted home by Miller’s Fancy Bath and Kitchen, and when a gas explosion destroyed the entire property, she reached out to Miller’s again to create a totally new kitchen space.

Cindy, the owner of Green and Halliburton Insurance Agency, loves to entertain and was accustomed to a large kitchen in her previous home. Since Miller’s constructed the original kitchen, the company teamed up with Cindy’s personal designer, Shane Pearson at Dwellings, to create her new space. “It’s a beautiful home, and we are glad we could be a part of it,” says company owner Rick Miller.

The cabinets, installed by Miller’s, were maple and custom-painted dark, then finished with brushed nickel fixtures to flow well with the Quartz countertops and custom tile backsplash. Lights were placed under the cabinetry, which is a “must-have in any new kitchen,” says Rick. A small island was replaced by a larger island with plenty of drawers for easy access and organization.

After her total home renovation, Green loves her new space. “She had the space, we created the kitchen within that space,” Rick says. For more information on Miller’s Fancy Kitchen and Bath, go to millersfancybathandkitchen.com. 

louisville homes

BY TAYLOR RILEY • COURTESY PHOTOS

When Cornerstone Kitchen and Bath General Manager Kevin Colvin’s family members Jeremy and Mignon Colvin called to update their kitchen, Kevin knew Designer Kim Brown would be the perfect person to do the job. The older kitchen was an attempt at modernity, but the mixes of brown, white, black, and pink tones just didn’t work.

Kim and her team came in and created a brand new space for the client, beginning with Eclipse Frameless Cabinetry in a high-pressure laminate. The upper cabinets and refrigerator wall are in Designer White, while the drawers and lower cabinets are in North Sea with copper fixtures and hood. Cambria countertops were added in Mersey, which has black and white veining, and lit with lights underneath the cabinets.

A modern geometrical backsplash in white with gray grout lines ties in the cabinets and pulls the design together. Frosted glass doors with aluminum frames line the walls. The space is now perfect for entertaining visitors with a dry bar and tons of open space. For more information about Cornerstone Kitchen and Bath, go to cornerstonekb.com.

COMFORTS

Design & Dwell Homes Specializes in Beautiful Beach Getaway Homes

BY DAWN ANDERSON • COURTESY PHOTOS

Are you ready for a home to call your own in “Louisville South” along Highway 30A? Design & Dwell Homes, based in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, has all the design expertise, furnishings, and decor to make your vacation home dream a reality. A perfect complement to their local interior design and decor business, Design & Dwell Interiors in Middletown, Design & Dwell Homes is owned by CEO, Interior Designer, and Expert Psychological Stager Wendy Anguiano. Wendy’s artistry and creativity are well-matched to her husband Nathan’s finely-tuned business acumen, as “a financial navigator and problem solver with more than 20 years of senior-level executive experience.”

Wendy Anguiano worked for fifteen years in the creative fashion industry and is an artist and marketing expert with several years of administrative experience. Design & Dwell Homes originated in late 2017 as a staging company with some interior design projects. That trend has since reversed with less staging and more interior design. “Most clients in Florida are purchasing a vacation home or investment property that is brand new and vacant, or they buy the house furnished but decide to get rid of everything and start over,” says Wendy. Design & Dwell Homes works with new builds, remodels, and redecorating projects.

19 Salt Box Lane in Watersound Beach, Florida, is a 5 bedroom/5.5 bath vacation home (with a carriage house) that sleeps up to twelve guests. “Light, bright, and airy,” the rooms feature large windows and a variety of decorative wood wall treatments painted in aquas, blues, whites, and off-whites. They provided perfect canvases for Wendy’s interior design brushstrokes. Considering the overall color palette, room flow, and textural elements, she adds pops of color, furnishings, and art to elevate the spaces with a dream-like quality ideal for the beach.

Upon entering the open-concept living room and kitchen area, Wendy noticed “the cozy feel to the home.” She brought in a coastal look of highend luxury with “white, light, bright, and neutral tones, along with tans, greys, and pops of blue.” Quality furniture with wood to match the floors and the rustic feel of the fireplace provided additional seating. “If you sleep twelve people, you need to be able to seat twelve people.” Wendy also turned the previously unused window seats into bench seating with plush throw pillows and placed movable pouf ottomans on either side of the fireplace.

The first-floor guest bedroom with porch access and aqua blue beaded wainscoting inspired Wendy to lighten and brighten the space with mirrored nightstands to reflect light and layered white bedding with throws and pillows in soft colors. When it comes to bedrooms, “I do a walk-through assessment, room by room,” says Wendy. “I start with the furniture, from the bed and nightstands to lamps, art, and a chair.”

The second-floor primary suite with a private balcony and a large private bath features a focal point fireplace and a wall of windows. “I placed the bed so as soon as you wake up, you see out those windows, creating a luxury environment that is serene, soft, and inviting, relaxing, cozy, and comfortable. Small amounts of color (here purple, lavender, and shades of blue) keep it soft but mix it up to give each room its own distinct feeling.” The wavy blue pattern on a throw pillow evokes both the ocean and an agate pattern, which works perfectly with the bedside “rock” lamps. “Everything is intentional,” Wendy assures us, “for balance and to work together.” She chose the circular, mirrored wall art pieces and round drawer pulls to complement the round buttons in the tufted headboard. “I often do things in threes. Odd numbers seem more complete, if somewhat unconventional.”

Blue and white board and batten walls distinguish the adjacent king bedroom with private balcony and private bath. “I chose to keep it simple because of the texture on the walls - a simple, solid bed with no pattern and no texture and simple bedding with larger patterns that play into what’s going on with the walls,” says Wendy. The clear glass lamps keep it light, with black trim to provide some grounding. She chose a horizontal, wider art piece so as not to compete with the wall behind, which “is art in itself.”

Wendy’s designs for the carriage house furnishings included many durable, washable slipcovers to handle beachgoers returning to their home away from home after enjoying the emerald waters and white sand beaches. Although the overall impression is high-end coastal, “I want guests to feel like they’re at the beach, comfortable and laidback.” Meanwhile, Design & Dwell Interiors in Louisville continues to grow with new hires, monthly warehouse sales in Bluegrass Industrial Park, and the ever-evolving Middletown showroom.  Visit

CODY STIFF | 502 727 3554

His clients know there is nothing more important to Cody than their happiness. He uses his extensive knowledge of real estate investing and remodeling to advise clients. Cody's entrepreneurial mindset helps him navigate even the most complicated real estate transactions.

ANGIE GRISSOM | 502 702 3493

Angie entered the real estate world with a boom and hasn't looked back. Her consumer sales and marketing background is the perfect complement to understanding the dynamics of a detailed and fastpaced real estate market.

First Saturday Real Estate, inspired by the first Saturday in May, celebrates excellence, togetherness, competition, and that unique hospitality only found in Louisville, Kentucky, in early May. First Saturday is a real estate brokerage that has partnered with and serves Louisville's best real estate agents by streamlining their business practices so agents can dedicate their time to one essential task: serving clients.

First Saturday Real Estate, inspired by the first Saturday in May, celebrates excellence, togetherness, competition, and that unique hospitality only found in Louisville, Kentucky, in early May. First Saturday is a real estate brokerage that has partnered with and serves Louisville's best real estate agents by streamlining their business practices so agents can dedicate their time to one essential task: serving clients.

When you meet an agent from First Saturday Real Estate, you know they are one of the leading real estate agents in our area. First Saturday agents are selected because they have a history of excellence in advocacy for clients. A team of expert real estate consultants who specialize in exceeding client's goals supports each agent. When you choose a First Saturday Real Estate agent, you choose the best of Louisville real estate professionals.

When you meet an agent from First Saturday Real Estate, you know they are one of the leading real estate agents in our area. First Saturday agents are selected because they have a history of excellence in advocacy for clients. A team of expert real estate consultants who specialize in exceeding client's goals supports each agent. When you choose a First Saturday Real Estate agent, you choose the best of Louisville real estate professionals.

When Stephanie and Greg started in real estate, they agreed they would grow a business that exudes excellence, thrives, and prioritizes having fun together. Each day has been an adventure for them as they have grown First Saturday Real Estate. Their clients are friends, and their friends become clients as they provide their "approachable luxury" real estate services. Enjoying the feeling of connecting clients with their real estate dreams is what fuels them as they lead one of the fastest-growing locally owned real estate brokerages in Louisville.

When Stephanie and Greg started in real estate, they agreed they would grow a business that exudes excellence, thrives, and prioritizes having fun together. Each day has been an adventure for them as they have grown First Saturday Real Estate. Their clients are friends, and their friends become clients as they provide their "approachable luxury" real estate services. Enjoying the feeling of connecting clients with their real estate dreams is what fuels them as they lead one of the fastest-growing locally owned real estate brokerages in Louisville.

GREG VIRGIN 553 9912

GREG VIRGIN 502 553 9912 @GregWVirgin

STEPHANIE VIRGIN 502 494 8552 @ e nie.Virgin

STEPHANIE VIRGIN

FOLLOW US @FIRSTSATURDAYRE

Real Estate Rockstars

Whether you’re buying or selling, the local experts on these pages will negotiate your way to success.

BY DAWN ANDERSON & ROCKO JEROME PHOTOS BY DANNY ALEXANDER, DICK ARNSPIGER, & JOLEA BROWN

KATIE ESTERLE & KYLE ELMORE REALTORS, WHITE PICKET

REAL ESTATE

Katie: (502) 810-8808 • Kyle: (502) 389-9920 WhitePicketKY.com

Katie Esterle and Kyle Elmore are two of Louisville’s top rockstar realtors, both annually ranking in the top solo sales volume for residential agents in Louisville. They are also both part of Louisville’s newest, locally owned boutique brokerage, White Picket Real Estate. They are both outliers having this success under the age of 30 and 40, respectively.

“We go above and beyond for each and every client, every time,” Kyle says. Utilizing dynamic technological innovation, these two are poised to ensure that their clients are getting the best real estate experience possible in 2021. “We understand the importance and benefit of moving nimbly and adjusting to changing market dynamics in real-time. We help clients transact with their real estate dealings in the manner that is effective for 2021, not some of the antiquated ways from previous generations.”

Kyle and Katie use strategic marketing strategies to highlight their listings to potential buyers and garner more attention for these properties. They negotiate fiercely to get their clients the best deals, and both work 24/7 to ensure that their clients have the best real estate experience possible. The duo is also committed to donating to local charities each time that they sell a home, helping to make our community better for all of our residents.

“Who you hire matters,” Katie says. “Buying or selling real estate is a big financial transaction, and you should never just trust anyone to handle that process on your behalf. You owe it to yourself to receive the best service possible, and that’s what we deliver every time, for every client.”

Kyle and Katie love what they do and it shows each and every transaction that they handle for their clients. They are excited to be working together at Louisville’s newest boutique real estate brokerage, White Picket Real Estate.

“W e take pride in being a familyowned and operated business,” says Nick Wright, owner of Wright Choice Home Inspection and Breathe Wright Radon & Air Quality Services.

“We believe in treating everyone like family and providing the best possible service to each and every client. Having a home inspection is one of the most important parts of the real estate transaction,” says Nick. “We strive to be the best in our industry through customer service, education, and integrity. We want our clients to have a great experience from start to finish, as well as providing peace of mind in their investment!”

Nick has worked his entire career in the construction industry. He started Wright Choice Home Inspection, at the suggestion of his wife, Jenny, in 2015. From there, they have established a professional and experienced team. Wright Choice Home Inspection is the #1 top-rated, multi-inspector firm servicing the Kentuckiana area. “Our goal is for our clients to know their house before they make it their home ensuring they made the Wright choice!”

ADAM CAPERTON & BRYCE CARIEL REAL ESTATE BROKERS, CAPERTON REALTY

(502) 386-3017

CapertonRealty.com

Caperton means community. The name alone represents a conscious eye for diversity and inclusion, a strong acumen for the real estate business, and a passion for fairness in all things. Adam Caperton and Bryce Cariel’s locally owned boutique real estate company offers all of the benefits of a franchise with the kind of personalized service that will make buying or selling a home a pleasant, rewarding experience.

“We’re sort of yin and yang,” Bryce says of his working relationship with Adam. “We complement each other. What we do is a kind of marketing for our clients and their homes. With us, it’s always all about you. We aren’t happy until you are.” The Caperton team is comprised of eight expert agents who understand the market, believe in trust, and are ready to go the distance to take care of you. “We think of what we do as being a very advisory-based service,” says Adam. “We know the market well and are very active in it. We feel that ethics are of the highest importance and will always tell you what you need to know. We’re here to navigate through the process with you, every step of the way.”

The Caperton team always takes the time to listen and look for ways to grow organically. They are all about giving back and paying forward in every way they can and are always looking for hardworking, ethical agents. “We always offer the same level of service regardless of the price of your home and are proactive about affordable housing,” Adam says. “There’s nothing more important to us than integrity.”

ALEX MUNCY

Specializing in several facets of the real estate industry, Alex Muncy puts his passion for the business to work for you. His father worked in remodeling, and some of his earliest memories revolve around being a junior assistant. “I vividly remember working for my dad as a kid at just six or seven years old with a sledgehammer in my hand,” he says.

As a former mortgage broker at First Commonwealth Mortgage, Alex is able to utilize his background to ensure that his clients not only find the perfect home but that they feel comfortable through the loan, insurance, and home inspection process.

“I know how challenging it can be to buy or sell a home, and I like to take on all that stress for my clients,” Alex says. It’s hard work, but Alex makes it look easy. “It’s great maximizing value for sellers with minimum repair work, but I especially love working with first time home buyers. Getting them approved is always very rewarding.”

Alex is rooted in his heritage of professionalism, communication, and work ethic while valuing the entrepreneurial mindset that always asks: “Why not?” It’s this approach to innovation that makes him stand apart within his industry. Whether it be investment properties, residential sales, or commercial deals, Alex never fails to surpass his client’s expectations.

ANGIE PAGE

REALTOR, COLUMN REALTY LOUISVILLE (502) 224-9126 • APageHomes@Gmail.com • ColumnRealty.com

With a proactive style and keen mind for Real Estate, Angie Page is continually going above and beyond. In today’s fast paced market, endless hustle keeps her ahead of market trends and working with clients across Metro Louisville and surrounding counties. “I really enjoy working with first-time home owners and investors; finding that diamond in the rough,” she says.

Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Angie worked around the globe before landing in Louisville just a few years ago. Since then, she rekindled her love of home renovation and restoration and is making her mark in the Real Estate community. She’s a communicator, negotiator, and a top producer. “Securing top dollar for my sellers is job one,” she says. “I love the challenge of finding that right property for each and every one of my buyers. That’s magic.”

Askilled negotiator with unparalleled knowledge of the local market, Dolly Lopez is dedicated and passionate about helping others and about educating people about the process of buying or selling a home. “I enjoy helping the community, especially those who represent the minorities in my city,” she says. Whether through live-stream sessions on social media or face-to-face conversations, Dolly goes out of her way to explain the process so that everyone can have access to helpful information.

“I think it is important for people interested in buying a home to educate themselves before choosing a Realtor that will represent them,” Dolly says. “Working with a knowledgeable realtor who cares about her clients makes a difference. I believe in keeping my clients’ interests above my own, and I negotiate for my clients with the same enthusiasm that I would for myself.”

DROSTE & MARY WIEGEL DAVIS

Art Haus Real Estate is a local, independent, full service real estate company. Mary Wiegel Davis and Cindy Droste are passionate about helping people with one of life’s biggest decisions....buying or selling a home. They are hands on and take excellent care of their clients.

Both are Louisville natives and industry veterans and bring different experiences and skills to the business. Cindy has a background in graphic art and design. She entered real estate from the business side serving her clients with research, technology and a visual eye.

Mary is a strong business partner for her clients, providing keen negotiating skills and market knowledge. “I deal straight with everyone involved,” she says. “We find great satisfaction in a smooth transaction that results in exceeding our client’s expectations.”

“We are the calm in the sometimes stormy process of real estate,” Cindy says. “With years of experience, we’ve seen a lot! Our goal is to successfully help our clients navigate the journey, while building relationships.”

Mary and Cindy believe it takes wisdom, instinct and patience to assist clients at every step of the real estate process. Skill and hard work are needed from beginning to the closing table. Research, pricing, staging, marketing, negotiations, inspections, repairs, appraisals, financing and collaboration with colleagues all require experience for success. Loving the business helps, too!

The bottom line: Cindy Droste and Mary Wiegel Davis enjoy helping clients get what they want. “And we’re good at it.”

ISAAC CURTIS, DOUG BRIMER, KIRK BROOKS, & CHRIS CURTIS

CURTIS

HOME INSPECTIONS

“H

ome” brings a sense of nostalgia, love, family, and security. Chris and Diane Curtis of Curtis Home Inspections understand a home purchase is also a significant investment. “We want to help clients make an informed, confident decision about their purchase,” says Chris.

With 17 years in ministry, Chris has always had a passion for helping others. He’s led local mission trips rebuilding tornadodamaged homes and traveled to Kenya to build homes for orphaned children. For every inspection they perform, a portion of the fee goes back to orphaned children, allowing the projects to continue. “It will always be a mission for us,” Chris added.

The Curtis inspection team includes two of Chris’s former youth students and his eldest son, Isaac. Together, they share the same faith and believe that integrity is a foundation for each inspection. “We conduct inspections like we were the buyer,” said Diane. Also unique, they record video of the entire inspection, from the moment they pull in the driveway to the moment they leave. “It’s a game changer for us. The recording captures everything we do and allows us to focus on the problems,” says Chris.

Chris and Diane recently began a new adventure, opening All About Home Inspecting, a home inspector school. They offer an in-person pre-licensing course and continuing education classes by Zoom. “Kentucky needs more quality Home Inspectors to meet the demand of the market,” Chris says. As an instructor at the school, Chris desires to generate confidence in the field with knowledgeable Inspectors.

REAL ESTATE ROCKSTARS

CRUMBAUGH REAL ESTATE GROUP

(502) 875-5211

Crumbaugh.com

Family owned and in business since the 1970s, Crumbaugh Real Estate Group is a boutique Real Estate firm with a team that is entrenched in our community, experienced, and made up of seasoned professionals. Real Estate is one of several branches of this ever-expanding company. They also work in construction and development and are equipped with over 130 years of collective construction and development experience. This team combines stellar knowledge of the market with outstanding sourcing capabilities, giving homebuyers access to everything they need from one powerful source.

The Crumbaugh drive towards providing the best customer service with a personal touch is unrivaled. The dynamic synergy that the group has developed shines through. “Our team works well together. It’s such a great environment,” says Heather Nutt, Director of Marketing. “We keep the focus on the clients,” says Chris Thompson, Principal and Managing Director of the company. He moved to our region years ago from Michigan. After meeting Will Crumbaugh through a development deal, their friendship grew, and Chris decided to join Crumbaugh as Managing Partner and Principal. “Annually, Our team produces a high volume of real estate transactions. However, we still think of ourselves as a small firm and put all of our efforts into working one on one with our clients.”

YEILEN GOMEZ

REAL ESTATE AGENT

(502) 500-0409

• Facebook: Yeilen Gomez Realtor • YeilenGomezKy@gmail.com

Born in Cuba and a native of the United States for over 30 years, Yeilen Gomez is ready to translate her vast success in the Hispanic/ Cuban market to anyone in Louisville ready to buy or sell a home. She’s fluently bilingual and has results to back up her ambition. “I’m driven by getting the best possible deal for my clients and helping them navigate the home buying process and I’m known for making things happen,” she says. With her willingness to put in the groundwork and be available literally 24/7, that’s almost an understatement.

Yeilen believes in what she does, is passionate about her work, and always put her clients first. “Homeownership is for everyone, and I am here to make it possible,” she says.

KAREN AND JEFF GAPEN

REALTORS, LOCAL REALTY

Karen: (502) 432-1998 • Jeff: (502) 639-0789 • JeffGapenHomes.com

“Selling homes is our passion,” says Karen Gapen. “It’s our day job, night job, and weekend job. We are there for our clients 24/7.” Karen and Jeff Gapen are a husband and wife real estate team and owners of Local Realty. Jeff is the principal broker with over 25 years of experience in the real estate industry. In that time, he has gained insight into new construction, remodeling, contract negotiation, and commercial real estate. Karen is a realtor as well as a certified stager. Her real estate experience, combined with her staging expertise, provides her with a unique insight into what makes a buyer feel at home. They will help buyers find your house, fall in love with it, and get it sold.

REAL ESTATE ROCKSTARS

JAY T. PITTS, JEN PITTS, & ZACHARY S. PITTS REALTORS, RE / MAX PREMIER PROPERTIES

Opened in October 2015, RE/MAX Premier Properties is a family-oriented brokerage with real estate in the blood. Broker Owners Jay T. Pitts, Jen Pitts, and Zachary S. Pitts have capitalized on their individual strengths, growing the business organically from less than ten realtors to nearly one hundred today. Their teams-within-a-team approach frees up time for agents to achieve a better worklife balance without loss of income. In the highly competitive real estate industry, “We want to provide the coaching, tools, and support they need to crush their real estate goals while being able to relax and be present in their personal life,” says COO Jen Pitts.

“We function largely as one big team that’s only as strong as its weakest member. We offer a great deal of internal training, so everyone has the opportunity to grow constantly.” This training includes the most current technology, a commitment to competency, and networking with top industry professionals.

Jen helps understand the benefits of using a realtor, especially in the current market. “Realtors strive to be experts at every aspect of the real estate transaction, so they provide an incredible amount of value by negotiating the best possible price and terms, walking you through inspections, advocating for you when obstacles surface and avoiding any legal issues. There are so many moving parts when you’re buying or selling a property; a great realtor will make it seem very easy on the surface, but behind the scenes, they’re putting out fires at every turn to ensure their clients end up in the perfect home!”

Visit homes502.com and ppmky.com and follow @louisvillepremierproperties on Facebook.

BRAD & KATIE NOE

REALTORS, NOE GROUP AT KELLER WILLIAMS LOUISVILLE EAST

Brad and Katie Noe are a husband and wife team whose attention to detail and fantastic ability result in most homes they sell moving after an average of just two days on the market. “We give each client a list to get them where they need to be, and of course, we make sure their house looks perfect on picture day,” Katie says, referring to her outstanding skills in staging. One of the keys to the Noes record success is a strong knack for getting each house looking like a home, letting prospective buyers see what their own lives could look like if they lived there.

Brad and Katie work with buyers as well and always go above and beyond to serve their clients. We do more than just open doors,” says Brad. “We love houses, design, and helping people. We’re following a passion.”

ERIC POHLER INSPECTOR, PRECISION HOME INSPECTIONS

The importance of a thorough home inspection during the buying process by a real expert cannot be overstated. That’s where Eric Pohler and Precision Home Inspection comes in. “This will be one of the largest investments of your life,” he says. “There are always issues of some kind, and you need to have them resolved by the time you move in.”

An expert in roofing, siding, windows, doors, floors, and furniture, Eric is fully certified and stays right up to date on his training. He’s a lifelong Kentuckian also licensed in Indiana, a family man, a self-starter, and a great asset to have on your side. “I work closely with realtors and their clients so that buyers and sellers are fully educated on the investments they are making.”

A client review: “Thank you so much, Eric, for making sure my new home is safe & sound for the next chapter of my life. I can’t express how much I appreciate all that you do! God Bless!

“This guy truly cares about you & your new home! That is rare in a service professional nowadays!”

JONATHAN KLUNK REALTOR & FOUNDING PARTNER, SIX DEGREES REAL ESTATE

With a creative approach, expert marketing, and a relentless work ethic, Jonathan Klunk leads a Real Estate team dedicated to getting results. Jonathan and team are devoted to a personalized experience, keeping their clients informed during every step of the process. “We are proud to offer a tailored approach so our clients can design their own real estate experience, which is unusual for our industry. We operate with transparency, build a plan of attack together, and make our clients the boss,” says Klunk.

Jonathan applies the same attitude and techniques that brought him success in Fortune 500 companies to Real Estate. “I like to break down big ideas into small bites,” he says. And when he was invited to be a founding member of Six Degrees Real Estate, he saw an opportunity to make changes in the way real estate is transacted. His company applies all the tools that current technology allows to open doors and take the buying and selling experience to the next level.

Jonathan has been named the top real estate agent on Social Media in Louisville by Property Spark and is focused on growing Six Degrees Real Estate into the city’s top real estate firm for both residential and commercial real estate. Along with his husband and team COO, Justin Reid, Jonathan is creating a topnotch team for his personal real estate production. His team includes Callum Southern who heads digital marketing and content creation, and Katie Fernandez who assists with Administrative duties.

Jonathan and his team are poised for explosive growth as they look to revolutionize the real estate experience for buyers, sellers, and investors.

ALICIA WELLS, STEPHANIE WETZSTEIN, & BOBBY HARDING

ALICIA, BROKER; STEPHANIE & BOBBY, OWNERS; NEST REALTY

NestRealty.com/GreaterLouisville

Offering tremendous experience, Nest Realty is a new breed of brokerage that truly cares. They provide a high level of support, ensuring their team can provide the best client experiences when buying or selling a home. “The attention we give to our agents and clients is unparalleled,” says Stephanie Wetzstein. She co-owns the company and is a Realtor herself. “We focus on the total client experience. Our clients are not just a transaction. Our service doesn’t end when the home closes.”

“A brokerage should be more than a place for an agent to put their license,” says Bobby Harding, coowner/Realtor. “We concentrate on building a great community through training, learning, growing, and supporting one another.” For this team, Real Estate isn’t just a job- It’s a lifestyle woven into everything they do.

Bobby and Stephanie opened Nest Realty in January of 2020. Alicia Wells is the Indiana managing broker and has been with them from the start. “We have a unique family feel at our brokerage,” Alicia says. “We do want to see all the agents succeed. We maintain a high level of communication and care about each client. We hold hands with people going through what might be a difficult time, and we celebrate with those who are experiencing the most exciting time in their life. We give back to our community by volunteering and donating to local charities throughout the year.”

REAL ESTATE ROCKSTARS

ANTOINETTE REYES

OWNER

& PRINCIPAL BROKER OF REYES REAL ESTATE LLC

(502) 403-0275 • Reyes-RealEstate.com

Antoinette Reyes is Owner and Principal Broker of Reyes Real Estate LLC which recently launched with a mission to assist all Kentuckians towards homeownership. We currently work with clients in residential, commercial, property management and real estate investment. Reyes Real Estate and team pride themselves on making homeownership possible for hard-working Kentuckians who are determined to build a good life for themselves and loved ones. During a short time in the real estate business, Antoinette Reyes has serviced hundreds of clients helping to establish futures by welcoming opportunities for generational wealth, equity, and freedom that are often curbed through a continued cycle of renting. The broadcasted mission of this power player is “Keys to a Better Life” where they are changing the way homeownership looks one family at a time.

REAL ESTATE ROCKSTARS

TERESA WALLACE

REALTOR, TERESA WALLACE TEAM WITH RE / MAX PREMIER PROPERTIES

love this,” says Teresa Wallace. “Real estate isn’t just a job for me. It’s a lifestyle.” Deeply dedicated and passionate, Teresa is committed to going above and beyond to get her clients everything they need. “It’s more than just opening a door. I always look out for your best interests, keep up with what’s happening in the market, network with other agents, and make strong negotiations on your behalf. Buying a home is usually a long-term investment, and you deserve someone who takes it seriously and does the due diligence.”

Rated in the top 1% of Louisville and Southern Indiana Realtors, Teresa is an independent agent looking to build a solid team. “I like to think outside the box and am looking for others who do the same,” she says. “Everything is based around providing the people I work with as positive an experience as possible.”

“I

REAL ESTATE ROCKSTARS

Afantastically personable and intuitive individual, Alex Holloway is here to build a productive relationship with you. Whether your real estate needs are in buying or selling, she’s going to put you first and bring you success. “I’m all about that personal touch,” she says. “I know how stressful the home buying and selling process can be. I intend to lighten the load and guide my clients through the course and get them where they need to be with as little worry as possible.”

From her background working as a nurse transitioning to real estate, Alex has always had a sincere interest in helping people. “I learned the great value of listening in that career,” she observes about her perceptive instinct. Alex’s professional adage is that her clients’ goals become her goals with customer service and client satisfaction as a top priority.

Having a passion for where she lives and works makes Alex the right choice for all your real estate needs. Her palpable enthusiasm and strong attention to detail coupled with Lenihan Sotheby’s International Realty’s upscale marketing and strong network results in a successful real estate transaction. “There are few greater pleasures than finding the perfect buyer for a seller and the perfect property for a buyer,” Whether searching for your perfect home or seeking professional representation throughout the selling process, Alex is ready to get the job done.

RENOTTA HENSON & SHAUN S. WALLACE

CO-OWNERS, PURPLE DOOR REALTY

Renotta: (502) 727-7188

Shaun: (502) 939-8029

PurpleDoorRealty.net

The Purple Door Team is the creation of longtime friends and real estate peers Shaun S Wallace and Renotta Henson. You might know Shaun as the vocalist for the popular band Soul Circus or as one of TOPS magazine’s own 50 under 50. Maybe you have seen Renotta, a registered Home builder, in various newspaper articles, being featured on HGTV or walking through one of her several Homearama houses over the years. Together, they own Purple Door Realty, Victory Construction, and Les Maison Investment Group, combining for a powerful 55 years of experience in the Real Estate Industry.

“As a real estate company, we offer our clients several different commission options to fit individual needs, including a flat fee model and a buyer rebate,” Shaun says. “It is our mission to break the stereotype of this business model and offer our clients a high level of service, all while saving them thousands over traditional commission models.”

Purple Door sets themselves apart and stays ahead of the curve of where they believe the business is headed. “We have focused on having our company established as larger, similar model companies make their way to the Louisville market,” He says.

The Purple Door Team consistently plants seeds and watches them bloom for everyone they work with, whether they are a one time transaction or longterm investor client. “Our small city is more of a large town,” Shaun says. “We can all work and thrive together to reach our goals.”

SCOTT BOEHNLEIN

With three offices servicing the greater Louisville area and Southern Indiana, Family Realty was established to create an independent real estate firm that prides itself on a high level of service and family values. “I established this company to change the way people look at Realtors,” says Scott Boehnlein Owner and Principal Broker. “When you work with one of our agents, you not only get someone who will represent your best interests, but you’re gaining a lifelong friend that truly cares.” Family Realty puts very experienced agents and dedicated office support at your service. “I welcome you to please contact one of our agents for your next real estate transaction,” Scott says. “You will enjoy a high-level experience with that personal touch.”

Now Serving (Indiana)

W o r k i n g o n a p r o j e c t t h a t n e e d s a f a c e l i f t ? R e f e r y o u r c l i e n t s t o u s ! C o r n e r s t o n e K i t c h e n a n d B a t h h a s a k n o w l e d g e a b l e d e s i g n t e a m t h a t c a n h e l p c l i e n t s m a k e t h e r i g h t u p g r a d e s o n t h e i r p r o p e r t i e s t o h e l p i n c r e a s e t h e i r h o m e v a l u e a n d v i s u a l a p p e a l t o p o t e n t i a l b u y e r s .

o r n e r s t o n e K i t c h e n a n d B a t h h a s a k n o w l e d g e a b l e d e s i g n t e a m t h a t c a n h e l p c l i e n t s m a k e t h e r i g h t u p g r a d e s o n t h e i r p r o p e r t i e s t o h e l p i n c r e a s e t h e i r h o m e v a l u e a n d v i s u a l a p p e a l t o p o t e n t i a l b u y e r s .

A T T N : R E A L E S T A T E A G E N T S

A T T N : R E A L E S T A T E A G E N T S

TRENDING Patio Decor at Digs Home and Garden

BY DAWN ANDERSON PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER

This year Digs Home and Garden in Chenoweth Square is celebrating their 20th anniversary, which Owner Ben Palmer-Ball believes is “an achievement given all we’ve been through.” In a highly competitive home and garden market like Louisville, longevity is truly a blessing. “It’s a testament to the people who shop and work here. They are all friends and family. Thanks to them, we build on our success each year.”

Ben Palmer-Ball grew up on a farm and has always loved the outdoors. “I enjoy working outside and getting my hands dirty.” Digs Home and Garden began as a specialty garden boutique offering heirloom seeds, garden tools, pots, and planters. When Ben started to realize that not everyone enjoyed digging in

the dirt quite as much as he did, he capitalized on his training as an architect and the outdoor-living aesthetic he observed during his time in California. Digs Home and Garden made a shift to include outdoor furniture and home decor. “I listened to the voices of my customers. It’s not just about selling a product. We’re selling service as well.”

“I carefully curate and do the research for quality products that will last. We offer personalized service and stand behind those products, often beyond any warranty that might already be attached.” Top outdoor furniture vendors for Digs Home and Garden include:

BROWN JORDAN - for luxury, designer collections featuring contemporary and traditional options

SUMMER CLASSICS - a broad collection of materials and styles offered ‘a la carte’ or in full ensembles

LANE VENTURE - Sophisticated yet comfortable designs with many fully upholstered outdoor options

KINGSLEY BATE - teak, woven, and all-weather furniture sensibly scaled, ideal for older homes’ porches.

In selecting outdoor furniture for Digs, Ben chooses product lines that reflect Louisville’s unique taste.

“

Digs Home and Garden patio furniture and accessories feature various materials, fabrics, and textures to layer, mix, and match. Ben understands that not everyone purchases all of their outdoor furniture all at once. Owning quality pieces built to last means you may be unable to find an exact match when you do wish to acquire additional pieces or sets. The ability to find something that complements instead of matches is a specialty of Digs Home and Garden experts.

Louisville may not always be on the cutting edge of patio furniture trends and colors. Still, that pace just behind the curve reflects the traditional, Southern charm that makes Louisville homes so inviting and welcoming. Regular Digs Home and Garden customers tend to shop at least seasonally to scope out the latest accessories to give their outdoor living spaces fresh, mini-makeovers. A trend that Ben has his eye on is padded slings or weaves that can eliminate the need for cushions and cushion maintenance.

“The pandemic is a perfect time to assess your current outdoor furniture and replace or update to be comfortable at home this spring and summer, and gather responsibly in the open air,” advises Ben. Order, custom order, or buy right off the floor. “Digs also offers in-home design consultation, set-up, and delivery services.” For more information, visit digshomeandgarden.com and follow @digshomeandgarden on Facebook. 

The pandemic is a perfect time to assess your current outdoor furniture and replace or update to be comfortable at home this spring and summer, and gather responsibly in the open air,

B tiq Spo i t: Nanz & Kra Florists

BY DAWN ANDERSON PHOTOS BY DICK ARNSPIGER

Family-owned and operated since 1850, Nanz & Kraft Florists is the leading full-service florist in Louisville and surrounding areas. The business moved from downtown to St. Matthews in 1872, and the iconic main location at Breckinridge Lane and Willis Avenue was rebuilt in 1976. Although an untold number of Louisvillians have either sent or received flowers, plants, and gifts from Nanz & Kraft, a visit to the shop yields many pleasant surprises and “Yes We Can” customer service. Owner Eddie Kraft assures us that “if a team member can’t answer ‘yes,’ they write it up, and we figure it out.” Eddie and his brother David offer “100% guaranteed satisfaction.”

Eddie Kraft and his brother Michael took the helm of Nanz & Kraft in the 1980s, and David joined in the early 1990s. Eddie and David sadly lost their brother Michael in 2019, but his spirit lives on. “The business is about expressing emotions to convey a sentiment. We are a florist for life.” Eddie describes a timeline of their customers’ milestones celebrated or honored with Nanz & Kraft Florists, such as births, baptisms, first communions, proms, graduations, weddings, anniversaries, funerals, and memorials. Nanz & Kraft has been a member of the Louisville Independent Business Alliance since its inception. “We believe in giving back and working with different charities around town,” says Eddie.

Customers new to shopping in the boutique are often amazed at how much giftware and home decor are available for sale. Upstairs they find the only second-floor greenhouse in the state of Kentucky. Nanz & Kraft also has a liquor license for delivery and in-store sales of wine and spirits, including bourbon and prosecco, perfect add-ons to flowers, plants, and gifts. Silk designer Craig

Johnson has over 50 years of expertise in “permanent botanicals” for custom-made arrangements, centerpieces, and door wreaths to celebrate the seasons year-round, including Derby and fresh holiday wreaths. Carson and Woodstock wind chimes add charm to outdoor spaces. Nanz & Kraft supports local artists whenever possible and carries Trapp candles to scent and warm your home.

With most of us spending more time at home and even working from home, Nanz & Kraft’s Healthy Plant Collection features houseplants to make your home more comfortable, clean the air, and help eliminate airborne toxins. $10 from each purchase within the collection supports scientific research at the U of L® Center for Healthy Air Water and Soil to improve Louisville health. Nanz & Kraft receives a plant truck from Florida and a truck of blooming plants from Canada each week for the freshest selection possible. In addition to “Home & Kitchen Cleaner” plants, “Office Cleaner” and “Hospital Cleaner” varieties are also available.

“We deliver to Louisville and southern Indiana all day long. Our runs leave at nine, noon, and three,” says Eddie. “Business has been great! 95% of people remember the last time they received flowers and who they were from. It sparks a smile. We are open seven days a week with a great team ready to put feelings into flowers.” 

IF YOU GO

Visit nanzandkraft.com and follow @ nanzandkraft on Facebook and Instagram.

Davenport Extreme Pools and Spas

Female CEO Promises You’ll Feel Like Family

BY TAYLOR RILEY COURTESY PHOTOS

Tracy Davenport and her husband Matthew own Davenport Excavating and Trucking, a successful business in Louisville, but Tracy is always looking to do more. After the midFebruary snow and ice storm, Tracy was awake for more than 50 hours in three days as she dispatched salt trucks onto the treacherous Jefferson County and Indiana roads. It’s clear Tracy is a powerful and determined woman, so it wasn’t a surprise when she began a business of her own in 2019 with a dream to hand it to her children one day.

Photo by Dick Arnspiger

Davenport Extreme Pools and Spas is a woman-run family business that’s all Tracy’s creation. Since 2019, the company exploded from 23 pool projects in the first year, 60 in 2020, to 100-plus scheduled this year. If you ask Tracy why her compa-ny became an overnight sensation, she says that she treats her customers like family.

Tracy works with her husband and sons, Shawn, Chance, and Brent, in the business. The company doesn’t use sub-contractors and uses its own equipment and trucks for jobs. “I hope my kids take over the company someday,” Tracy says. “That’s the reason I work hard every day for my boys’ future.

Tracy’s company designs, builds, and installs pools without any hidden fees. “I’ve never gone back to a customer asking for more money,” Tracy says. If there are any mistakes, the company fixes the issue at no cost to the customer. “I never want a bad name,” she says. “I want Davenport Pools to go on through history.” The company will always go out to every homeowner’s proper-ty to give them a quote; they know drainage and excavating to provide an accurate quote every time.

After going to the home and looking at the yard, Davenport Pools will go over the customer’s design preferences and go back to the office to email a quote within a week. After, the customer can sit down with employees to talk about the processes, colors, and more. “We help them every step of the way,” Tracy says. The customer only has to deal with their Homeowner’s Association for approval of the project. Davenport Extreme Pools and Spas also has in-house fi nancing, and the customer only pays a deposit up-front. Tracy holds customers’ hands and helps them every step of the way

When the project is underway, customers will wait 12 to 14 weeks for the fi-berglass but digging, setting, and installation are fi nished usually in a week. Quality is Tracy’s No. 1 pri-ority. The pools they install are made with fiberglass, which has a 15-yearto-lifetime warranty and doesn’t turn green. Pools can be salt or chlorine and are all set on automa-tion to control pumps, heat, lights, and more away from home with the click of a button. Tracy even throws in a robotic vacuum for easy cleaning, so her customers can have more fun and less work to do.

Tracy and Matthew flew all over the country to determine what products and services to provide customers before they began the company. Now, 2-and-a-half years in, they train other company owners across the country to install pools and run a business. She loves making people’s backyard dreams come true, but she also loves working with her best friends and family every day. “I love going to my job every day.

Being a woman in the construction world has been difficult for Tracy, but she says she’s “here to stay and play with the big boy toys.” Now, everyone knows Tracy is an expert in the pool installation world. “We’re here in town and here to stay,” she says. “It’s great to finally be accepted.” For more information on Davenport Extreme Pools and Spas, go to davenportextremepools.com or call (502) 408-5892.

Gardens An Outdoor Living Space From Myers + Co. Landscape Architecture

BY KATHIE STAMPS • COURTESY PHOTOS

When Sallie and Clay Stevens bought their Tyler Park house several years ago, they knew they would need to have the patio reconfigured. They hired Joshua Myers, landscape architect and owner of Myers + Co. Landscape Architecture. In 2017, Josh had done a new walk, parking area and landscape project for their neighbors David and Bruce. “We had admired the work as the project progressed and thought it was well done,” says Sallie.

The existing patio at the Stevens house had been walled-in by a dilapidated privacy fence; the patio itself was too narrow and didn’t make full use of the side yard, and there was virtually no green space. Josh started the design process with the Stevenses in October of 2019. Construction began in December and everything was finished in April of 2020. Myers + Co. Landscape Architecture created a sense of privacy from the adjacent road in a way so that Sallie and Clay wouldn’t feel closed in. To create a dining space and separate sitting area, Josh installed a custom bluestone patio. A new raisedstone planter and a necessary stone retaining wall encircling the patio both serve as a seat bench to provide additional seating options.

“The landscape also played a significant role in this project to give the outdoor living space a nice balance between hardscapes and nature,” says Josh. “We planted three Eastern Redbud trees along the perimeter of the patio that will give them a nice buffer and seasonal interest while they are enjoying their outdoor space.”

louisville homes

Clay and Sallie were blown away by Josh’s design of the space. “He did a great job listening to what we wanted but also with coming up with ideas that we would never have imagined,” she says. “He had an amazing vision of what the space could be, and his design was creative and made use of every inch.”

Sallie’s favorite part of the outdoor living space is the custom bluestone patio. “I think of it as a work of art with all of the pieces fitting together perfectly,” she says. “It is really beautiful, and the colors of the stone complement our 1920s brick house so well.”

Now their outdoor living space is larger and more usable, with plenty of opportunity to enjoy nature. “I also love the patio’s overall feel,” Sallie says. “Even though we have a privacy fence, the space feels very open.”

The company of Myers + Co. Landscape Architecture started in January 2016. Emily Weber and Chris Beaulieu round out the team of three with Josh Myers. As a design-build firm, they do both: design projects and build them with their team of talented contractors, particularly outdoor spaces. “We place a lot of emphasis on the initial design phase so our clients have a clear vision of their project,” says Josh. “We try to encourage our clients to think longterm by developing a comprehensive master plan for their property so it evolves into a cohesive series of outdoor spaces over time.”

Over the past five years, Josh has been pleased to see people investing more resources in their outdoor living spaces. “Our clients want their outdoor space to feel like an extension of the home,” he says, “with more amenities like built-in kitchens, fire pits and covered patios.”

Spring is, of course, a great time to get your own garden ready for the year. “Just be cautious as to what you might be pruning or cutting back in early spring,” says Josh. “Plant maintenance and care vary from plant to plant. If you are not careful you can trim off your spring flower display.”

The best time to start planning a project is several months before you would anticipate starting construction. “It does take time to work through the design and budgeting process to get the project ready for construction.”

Clay and Sallie Stevens have enjoyed their outdoor living remodel for almost a year. “We also love the addition of the landscape elements inside the fenced area so that we can really enjoy them,” says Sallie. “We loved working with Josh. He is very dependable and does high quality work. He’s also a great guy.”

For more information call (502) 424-9638 or visit myersandcompanyla.com. 