Urban Home Austin-San Antonio June-July 2014

CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE

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FROM THE EDITORS Central Texans are so fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful scenery throughout our entire region. It seems only natural to want to immerse ourselves in the landscapes in which we have chosen to live. In this issue we feature homes built to enhance outdoor living opportunities and these spectacular views, and show how each design created transitions between indoors and out.

After relocating from Houston to the picturesque hills of Boerne, one family called on Robert Dame of Robert Dame Designs (who had designed their previous home) to create his interpretation of a Texas Hill Country home. Situated to capitalize on the panoramic views and maximize the breeze across the property, Dame, in his signature way of fusing architectural styles, designed a sprawling home that draws on the strong German influences of the area.

In Wimberley, architect Neel Morton of Office of Architecture created a modern retreat whose design was determined entirely by its location and surrounding landscape. Utilizing storefront windows throughout the home, and the same materials both inside and out, Morton was able to blur the line between indoors and outdoors.

Did you ever dream of having a treehouse when you were a kid? Well, your dream has come true thanks to Treehouse Master Pete Nelson who says Texas has the best trees. At the Davis Ranch Retreat in Waelder, he created a treehouse spa that was featured on the Animal Planet’s Treehouse Masters. This treehouse spa boasts air conditioning and heating, a message and relaxation room, and even a steam shower.

Desiring a coastal getaway for their multigenerational family, these homeowners purchased two condo units and turned the space over to designer Casey Roy and her talented team to reconfigure the layout into one cohesive residence with five bedrooms, a large kitchen and multiple living areas. The result is a sleek yet classic design using neutrals as a base while punctuated with subtle island influences and pops of color.

Needing to update the master suite of her Castle Hills home, a homeowner took the opportunity to create a luxurious space that is long on glamour. The result of this major renovation is 2,000 square feet of opulence, appointed with crystal chandeliers and fixtures reminiscent of Old Hollywood.

In our New Masters section, Rahnee Gladwin has positioned herself as not only a talented mosaic and tile artist whose murals can be whimsical, lifelike and even historic, but as the go-to designer for tile sourcing in general. As an interior designer, she saw the need for a ceramics expert and became that person for architects and other designers.

If you consider yourself a “Foodie,” we have the perfect way to maximize your love of great cuisine and hone your culinary talents.

Cooking classes are hot right now, and we introduce you to a few in and around our area. Whether you are looking for an evening out or a weekend getaway, a cooking demo or a hands-on experience, you are sure to find the perfect place for your gastronomic outing.

Enjoy your summer!

Trisha Doucette & Leslie Woods, editors

On The Cover: Robert Dame perched his lawn chair in this spot long before he began designing this home, knowing that this view would take center stage in the soon-to-be Texas Hill Country/German-inspired home. Page 22

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2014 | VOL. 9 | NO. 3 Publisher Louis Doucette Editors Trisha Doucette and Leslie Woods Contributing Editors Bill Evans – ABOR Randy Meek – Eastside Lumber & Decking Contributing Writers Claudia Alarcon, Jackie Benton, Beth Bond, Michelle Burgess, Julie Catalano, Mauri Elbel, Ashley Festa, Dana W. Todd Strategic Media Placement Diane Purcell Advertising Sales Sandy Weatherford, Gerry Lair, Janis Maxymof Photography Paul Bardagjy, Cindy Dyer, Casey Dunn, Michael Hunter, Julie Nader, Matthew Niemann, Thomas McConnell, Nick Simonite, Dale Tan Design and Production Tim Shaw – The Shaw Creative Printing and Direct Mail SmithPrint Phone 512.385.4663, Austin - 210.410.0014, San Antonio Fax 830.981.8887 Business Office 4714 Cambridge / Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Sales Office 10036 Saxet Drive / Boerne, Texas 78006 Email louisd@urbanhomemagazine.com Website www.urbanhomemagazine.com Urban Home Magazine Austin-San Antonio is published by Big City Magazines of Austin, LLC. Advertising rates available upon request. All rights reserved by copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent from publisher. Every effort is made to assure accuracy of the information contained herein. However, the publisher cannot guarantee such accuracy. Advertising is subject to errors, omissions and or other changes without notice. Mention of any product or service does not constitute endorsement from Urban Home Magazine.

The information contained in this publication is deemed reliable from third party sources, but not guaranteed. Urban Home Magazine does not act as an agent for any of the advertisers in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified remodeling, home furnishings or home improvement firm based on your own selection criteria. Urban Home Magazine, does not act as an agent for any of the realtors or builders in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified realtor to assist you in your new home purchase.

Urban Home Magazine will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that is a violation of the Fair Housing Act. All real estate advertising in Urban Home Magazine, is subject to the Fair Housing Act that states “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation.

We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.”

© Copyright 2014 by Urban Home Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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June / July 2014

CONTENTS cover

22 Hill Country Haven Photography by Julie Nader

featured homes

30 Blurring The Lines Between Inside And Out Photography by Paul Bardagjy 38 A Seaside Classic Photography by Matthew Neimann, Aberdeen Studios

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highlights

50 A Dose Of Inspiration 54 Lofty Living 58 Living On The Edge

departments Design Trends 46 Ravishing Renovation

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Commercial Design 62 Chavez: Telling A Story Through Design Why This Space Works 66 Designer Spotlight: Debbie Baxter New Masters 72 Making The Pieces Fit: Rahnee Gladwin Food Design 76 Better Living Through Juicing Fabulous Finds 78 Cooking Schools

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Essentials 49 New Products: Pure Relaxation 65 New Products: Outdoor Games 70 New Products: Outdoor Living Contributing Editors 69 Bill Evans, ABOR 70 Savana Schroeder-Beckman Austin NARI & Rodney Hill, NARI San Antonio

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H I L L C O U N T RY

H AV E N

P

By MAURI ELBEL

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erched on top of a flat hilltop surrounded by oak trees and views that seem to stretch on forever, the Hodo family is now at home in their tranquil retreat nestled in the Texas Hill Country.

The couple was immediately drawn to their 20-acre lot sitting just west of Boerne in Estancia at Thunder Valley for several reasons: its close proximity to town, the neighborhood amenities and the 360-degree hilltop views. But uprooting their family of six from their established life in Houston required years of contemplation.

In the fall of 2012, they made the move from the bustling city to settle into their custom-designed, sprawling six bedroom, 22

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Photography by JULIE NADER

seven bathroom home in the country. The Hodo’s previous Houston residence was designed by Robert Dame, and they called on his skills once again to create a new home that would suit their growing family.

“We wanted to build a similar style house to what we built in Houston,” says Lori Hodo. “Robert had researched the German architecture and the history of the Hill Country so with his knowledge and design brilliance, combined with our desires and tastes, we were always in sync with our ideas. We both wanted to build a house with specific elements and materials while creating a comfortable and livable home. Robert is such a creative visionary urbanhomemagazine.com

and with his relaxed personality, it was so easy to work with him and Rollie O’Dell (project manager) during the design process.”

Before ever pulling out his sketch pad, Dame unfolded his lawn chair on the property and spent the day surveying the wind direction, sun patterns and views to determine the best placement of the home to maximize these natural elements.

“This particular lot sits up high in the Hill Country — it appears to be the highest point between downtown San Antonio and Boerne,” says Dame. “The beauty of this view is that it looks right toward the southeast part of downtown San Antonio. We wanted to direct this home to the southeast view, and it just so happened to be where the breeze was, too.”

The residence’s southeastern orientation capitalizes on breathtaking panoramas and rejuvenating breezes across the home — from the family room, study and master bedroom to the game room/theater area and loggia. On a clear night, the horizon sparkles with the lights and buildings of downtown San Antonio.

“From the beginning, this view remained a very important part in the planning process, and it turned out very well,” said urbanhomemagazine.com

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Ray Stadler. “When you go up there and walk through the house you see all these cool views.”

Stadler Custom Homes worked with the Hodo family throughout the building process with project manager Gary Lundin proving to be flexible, accommodating and quick to take care of any issues that came up. “Building a home will test your sanity, and Gary was instrumental in keeping us relaxed and positive during the process,” says Hodo.

But it’s the home’s unique design that truly stands out — an amalgam of different architectural styles fused together. Borrowing from different vernaculars, Dame designed this home using a blend of styles ranging from elements of Texas Hill Country to the more traditional German influences historically seen in this region.

“They liked the Texas Hill Country look, but I did more of an interpretation of Texas Hill Country,” said Dame. “The design was influenced by some older buildings that were built in the 20’s near Kerrville called Camp Waldemar.”

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Dame incorporated some of the German features seen in the historic buildings into the Hodo residence. Some obvious examples include the roofline pitches and the stonework that appears greater at the base before tapering upward.

“This home is really a hybrid of influence,” says Dame. “I have a tendency to be more free in my thinking and I will hybrid details together. The shingle-style architecture is common in the Northeast — it is not something typically seen in the Hill Country at all, but the beauty of the shingle is that I can form it and curve it and I can create shape.”

The home’s aesthetic also exudes a mountain lodge feel, inspired by generous beams used inside and out. All the interior and exterior woodwork, from the substantial Douglas fir, kiln-dried, time-worn beams seen on the outside to the reclaimed vintage oak floors inside, was installed by Terry Hurd and Don Gardner of Woodshop of Texas. While the installation was an exercise in effort and time, the clients say urbanhomemagazine.com

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it came together beautifully to form the central focal point of their home.

Another notable asset of this residence can be found in the children’s separate spaces which reflect each child’s individual character — spacious retreats with suite-like designs comprised of bedroom/bathroom/study configurations. A screened-in sleeping porch, featuring cots suspended on chains and walls made from reclaimed fencing, is perfect for sleepovers with friends. This screened sleeping porch is reminiscent of an old time tradition but provides a playful yet restful modern day space for the kids. The slate floors and knotty alder seen on the porch extend to the expansive guest suite, providing visitors ample space with a living room, bedroom, bathroom and coffee bar. Another fun element for the teenage children is the openstyle game/theatre room — a more practical option for this family than a closed-theater concept.

The open spaces throughout the home are one of the elements the homeowners value most. The kitchen, breakfast and family rooms remain gathering spaces ideal for congregating and convening. The kitchen features a breakfast area and butler’s bar, a Wolf® cook top and double wall ovens, a custom copper hood, Sub-Zero® refrigerator and freezer, and appliances paneled in rustic cherry cabinetry. With no detail overlooked, the kitchen is any chef ’s dream. But the versatility of the kitchen and adjoining rooms is the real asset for this family.

“We learned years ago that the kitchen is where people end 26

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up gravitating to 90 percent of the time — not because of my cooking,” says Hodo. “It just seems to be the central area when you have people over. We designed the kitchen, great room, dining area and breakfast room to be open to each other so people can mingle easily and congregate together without feeling left out in another room. You can be in the kitchen talking with someone while they are on the couch in the great room watching TV or to another person in the game room playing pool. We specifically wanted our game room downstairs to be tied into all the action and where we could keep the kids downstairs and in the open.”

When the weather is nice, like it is most of the year, the Hodos can open up their interior living space and bring the outside in, creating an indoor/outdoor living environment with their Vista Pointe architectural door system. The main focal point inside the house is the cruciform ceiling in the family room, built from salvaged antique beams. The design, Dame says, is typically seen in churches rather than residential construction but one that captures the view to the southeast.

“When I design a family home, it is important to understand the family dynamics and cater the design to how the family works,” says Dame. “And this home accomplished that — more so because it was the second home I had done for them so I strived to create the most ideal environment for them. These pieces work as a whole; each piece has to function at its highest.”

From the intimacy of the master bedroom and elegance of the family room to the coziness of the breakfast room and urbanhomemagazine.com

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functionality of the kitchen, Dame says the expansive home flows together cohesively. Interior designer Susan Mangold helped achieve this through her thoughtful design selections.

“Our goal for this home was to create a space that reflected the warm, rustic feel of the Rocky Mountains using stone, brick, reclaimed timbers and reclaimed wood flooring,” says Mangold.

“Each of these elements contributes to the whole feel of the home.”

With four children in the house, the Hodo home is a hub of activity. But Mangold says she created different spaces for various activities while creating a warm, welcoming feel throughout the house by maintaining a balance through her use of color, texture, earthy materials and touches of Mother Nature.

“The high arches and masculine materials are balanced by the soft color and texture of the handmade rugs in the great room which show off the custom-made furnishings beautifully,” says Mangold. “We divided the great room into two areas. A conversation area in front of the fireplace is formed by four matching custom leather chairs. Each chair has a custom-made pillow that reflects the homeowners love of horses and riding.

The remainder of the great room has a large, soft leather and fabric sectional and an oversized swivel chair made of a soft, textured chenille fabric. We chose soft textiles to balance the rough hewn feel of the architectural elements.”

Mangold also strived to capture individual personalities 28

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throughout the home. Reflecting the homeowners’ personalities was easy, she says, because they were looking for a casual feel without being too rustic. The antler chandelier was a favorite brought from their previous home in Houston and was placed in the study to complement the various animal mounts and western art work.

“One of the challenges of this home was the toning down of the rustic elegance to give the two daughters a peaceful, serene space,” says Mangold. “All the colors of the home are the hues of nature. Once you enter the bedrooms and baths of the girls’ area you are greeted by a light, airy atmosphere. However, we did keep the rough hewn beams and stained doors to create a cohesiveness with the other part of the upstairs, which is where the boys bedrooms are as well as the sleeping porch.”

Through close, collaborative relationships, the homeowners, designers and builders worked together to create a peaceful, comfortable Hill Country haven that perfectly suits this large family’s busy lifestyle.

“When we walk into our house, it feels like this is where we are meant to be,” says Hodo. “My husband grew up in San Antonio so it’s a homecoming of sorts for him. We are very content and at home here now.” v ARCHITECT Robert Dame Designs 713.270.8225 | Robertdamedesign.com BUILDER Stadler Custom Homes 830.980.4198 | Stadlercustomhomes.com DESIGNER Susan Mangold Interior Design 210.889.2369 | Susanmangoldinteriors.com WOODWORK Woodshop of Texas 888.950.9663 | Antiquewoods.net urbanhomemagazine.com

BLURRING THE LINES BETWEEN

INSIDE AND OUT

By ASHLEY FESTA | Photography by PAUL BARDAGJY

This Wimberley home was an architect’s dream job. With nearly 6,000 square feet of house to take advantage of the 270-degree panoramic Hill Country view, architect Neel Morton, AIA, of Office of Architecture, created a striking and unusual get-away residence.

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he location and existing landscape drove the design of the custom home. Situated on the edge of a small bluff, the land was in a perfect position overlooking two of Wimberley’s iconic landmark landscapes and a beautiful meadow, home to many types of wildlife.

The project included two important challenges: to preserve as many live oaks on the property as possible, while taking advantage of the sweeping country views. The floor plan Morton designed became a giant puzzle, piecing each room together in an unusual layout so as to maximize the outdoor beauty on the inside of the home.

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To start, Morton had to determine what he was working with. The homeowners and architect worked together for several months to select a location that was private, away from the road and, of course, took advantage of the best view the property had to offer. The owners had a number of options on their 12-acre site, but it was difficult to tell what would be the best location for the home.

“Undeveloped property is often overgrown with cedar,” he said. “Sometimes you can’t see what you’ve got because of the cedar. So we narrowed it down to two sites we thought would be good and cleared the cedar out so we could really see what the sites offered and what the views would be like.”

A survey of the land revealed which site offered enough area for the house and where the fewest live oaks would be disturbed.

“I started putting these building blocks together, organizing them to take advantage of these views,” Morton said. “I spent a couple of days marking out the views and noting the angles.

Then the general plan fell into place.”

What he came up with might seem a little unusual, but turned out perfectly for the homeowners’ wish list. The final design disturbed only two live oaks and offered gorgeous views 32

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for nearly every room in the house. Morton’s plan called for storefront windows all around the home to help bring the outside, inside.

The master bedroom, game room and one of the guest bedrooms look out over one of Wimberley’s notable peaks, called the Twin Sisters. The master bedroom enjoys a view over the meadow as well. And overlooking the meadow with the most panoramic scene in the house are the living room, dining room and kitchen, each of which provide views of Devil’s Backbone, a urbanhomemagazine.com

long and high ridge of hills whose foliage is ever-changing with the seasons.

“There are a number of places where exterior materials flow into the interior of house, which blurs the line between inside and outside,” Morton said. “We fully engage the inside of the house with the site. Even when I’m inside the house, I’m still interacting with the outside.” He noted that the changes in light throughout the day as well as watching wildlife crossing the meadow reinforces the inside-outside flow to the house. urbanhomemagazine.com

Because the four-bedroom, four-bath and two-half bath home is a get-away for the Houston residents, the three guest bedrooms are situated on the opposite end of the house so the homeowners have a quite place to retire while family and friends enjoy the vacation retreat. Adjacent to the guest rooms is the media room, which has a closet and bathroom access and could be converted into a bedroom in the future.

With the architectural design and material selections in place, the builder took over. Micky Maness, of Coachman URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

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Homes, helped the owners create their energy-efficient, lowmaintenance home.

Starting on the outside of the house, Morton selected a combination of stucco and Massaranduba siding, a durable, long-lasting and beautiful plum-colored wood siding. Also known as Brazilian Redwood, Massaranduba requires little maintenance, a big plus for the homeowners. Another lowmaintenance feature is the unconventional galvalume, rather than wood, fascia. According to Morton, galvalume is similar to a galvanized finish but better in that it is longer lasting, prevents rusting and provides more even coloration.

To help keep the house cool in the Texas summer sun, Maness installed polished concrete floors throughout most of the house.

Some bedrooms are carpeted, while the game room features a fir wood floor reclaimed from a silo at an old farm being dismantled.

On top of the house, the galvalume roof reflects sunlight, also helping to keep the interior cool. The home’s solar panel system and the on-demand water heaters support the home’s effort toward energy efficiency.

With the help of Page Gandy, designer at 3 Fold Design Studio, the homeowners created an interior look that complemented the overall architecture while also continuing the theme of easy, lowmaintenance and modern. “The homeowners have a daughter so they didn’t want anything too precious — so she could play everywhere,” Gandy said.

Her first challenge was to create spaces that took advantage of urbanhomemagazine.com

the home’s floor plan. To prevent furniture from visually floating in the large, open rooms, Gandy needed to define each separate space. Her solution used rugs to outline specific sitting areas, especially in the living room and game room.

The home’s architecture also guided furniture and lighting choices. Gandy and the homeowners wanted to allow the outdoor scenery to take center stage. By keeping a neutral indoor palette of grays, creams and browns, Gandy ensured that the outdoors remained the focal point of each room.

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Meanwhile, Gandy helped the homeowners determine which areas needed something for extra visual interest. For example, the high ceiling in the dining room. “With a wall of storefront windows, we needed a statement piece to capture attention.”

They selected a custom-made chandelier.

“We had to decide where we needed statements and where other lighting should disappear into the background,” Gandy said. The kitchen was one such area. She knew the kitchen’s lighting needed to be minimal so as not to detract from the handmade glass tile backsplash. In the dining room, the table and chairs were kept simple so the high ceiling could show off a lively light fixture.

“We didn’t want a big light in every room because we didn’t want too many ideas competing with one another,” Gandy said.

“Sometimes we let the view be the centerpiece. We wanted to push the outside into the living areas. It’s a marriage of indoor and outdoor spaces.” v ARCHITECT Office of Architecture 512.847.7600 | Ooarch.com BUILDER Coachman Homes, Inc. 512.844.5843 | Coachmanhomesinc.com DESIGNER 3 Fold Design Studio 512.524.5408 | 3folddesignstudio.com 36

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A SEASIDE CLASSIC

By MICHELLE BURGESS | Photography by MATTHEW NEIMANN, ABERDEEN STUDIOS

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It’s hard enough for a couple, much less a multigenerational family, to agree on design and décor. But that was the case for recent clients of Casey Roy Interior Design who were seeking a functional, comfortable and stylish beach getaway for their expansive family.

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he clients have 13 grandchildren, so “kid-friendly” was near the top of their wish list. In order to have enough space, they purchased two condo units in a newly built beachfront high-rise building on the north end of South Padre Island.

“They asked us to create a floorplan to make the best use of the square footage,” Roy says. “In addition, they asked us for a design that was an elevated, contemporary island style” that didn’t sacrifice elegance in the pursuit of comfort and usability.

The biggest challenge facing Roy’s firm was coming up with a plan to combine the two units into one space that would provide five bedrooms, a large kitchen and spacious living areas. They had to work around existing plumbing and HVAC — definite impediments to making structural alterations.

After that hurdle was surmounted, Roy’s team worked with their clients to select finishes and materials for flooring, countertops, walls and cabinets; plumbing fixtures, door and cabinet hardware and decorative lighting followed. The design process took about three months and the custom-designed, enlarged condo was complete in nine.

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The result is an open yet cozy unit in a timeless, neutral palette with pops of island color throughout. Furnishings include custom pieces and rugs featuring abstract designs reminiscent of coral and undersea flora, touches that blend hearty indestructibility with striking but unstuffy style for the grown-ups.

“It is a room-by-room process, and each space has its own personality,” Roy says of the design procedure. “The tone-ontone neutrals in the living room are fresh, sophisticated and soothing. The family room is a youthful space with splashes of color and is anchored by a large custom entertainment unit housing the TV and gaming system” faced by a large, L-shaped sectional large enough to hold a gaggle of cousins.

Furnishings and décor are sleek and contemporary and subtly bring to mind the sea without being cliché. The overall look is cohesive, airy and bright, and it is impossible to tell that this was ever two separate units.

Each bedroom has its own private bath — a particularly handy set-up when the whole family is ready for a shower after a day in the sand. Roy says the kids’ bunk room is “especially URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

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fun and flexible” with pull-out trundles to accommodate large family get-togethers or the extra friends who tag along.

Roy’s team fully stocked the home so that the family could get busy having fun from Day One, without having to think about things like beach towels, utensils or cookware.

“Everything in the bathrooms was pulled together by our designers, even the shampoo and hair dryers,” Roy says. “Not a detail was overlooked.”

Roy says that while the architectural and design process went smoothly, the installation proved to be a bit trickier. It required a team of four designers, a delivery crew and four large truckloads of furnishings and was completed during the hottest weeks of mid-summer. Adding another layer of complexity to the situation was that the building’s elevators were out, necessitating an eight-story climb for the crew bringing in the furniture and boxes of accoutrements.

Ultimately, though, Roy says that the design and logistical challenges were inconsequential hiccups. The clients are thrilled with the finished project and look forward to having a great place to gather for years to come.

“We were exhausted once it was complete,” she says, “but literally everything was in place and truly turnkey-ready for our clients to enjoy.” v DESIGNER Casey Roy Interior Design 210.560.2174 | Caseyroydesign.com 44

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DESIGN n TRENDS

RAVISHING

RENOVATION

By BETH BOND | Photography by CINDY DYER

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he master suite of Betty Howard’s rambling Castle Hills home was built for function but unmistakably outfitted for luxury.

One glance around the longtime San Antonio resident’s recently remodeled space, and the motif is apparent: sparkle and shimmer and lots of it. A crystal chandelier hangs from the coffered ceiling, sending glittering light every which way. The shiny golden tub faucet

by Phylrich® hardware is rendered in the shape of a swan. Even the floor of the fireplace is inset with crystals so that when a log is lit, they catch the light that flickers across the creamcolored room.

“I watch ‘Behind The Gates’ on the Wealth Channel, and they rarely have anything that compares to this,” Howard said.

While these finishing touches have transformed the style of the bedroom, bathroom and sitting room that span nearly 2,000 square feet, the change began with a drastic rethinking of the rooms’ layout. What was formerly a compartmentalized space of six rooms is now two much larger rooms. The most dramatic shift is found in Howard’s new bathroom layout, which has a his-and-hers design that flows more smoothly than the previously walled version.

“It was a complete gut and redo,” said Craig Scott, owner of Cross Construction Company.

“We completely stripped out the space to the studs, removed a few walls and relocated some plumbing. In addition, we fabricated and finished custom cabinetry. We moved vanities, bathtubs and showers around to manage the functionality. Her goal initially was to open it up and remove walls for a more open space.”

This remodel was one of many that the sprawling home has seen since it was built in 1950 by Howard’s late husband, San Antoniobased aviation entrepreneur Dee Howard. Over time, the house sitting on a 5-acre property has grown to about 9,000 square feet. The recently

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updated master suite was built in 1983, but time wasn’t the only reason for the work.

“It just needed to be redone, and I’m a very glamorous person,” Howard said. She calls the style of the suite “Old Hollywood swanky” and cites the luxurious amenities of Las Vegas as a major inspiration.

“Betty is tasteful,” Scott said. “She understood what she wanted and she wanted some Vegas glam.

She wanted to feel like she was in Hollywood, and I think she does in this space.”

Details such as crystal-studded knobs, cabinet pulls lined with gems and pristine surfaces are straight out of Sin City. The shower is finished with 1-inch-square onyx tile, the cabinets’ cream paint is described by Howard “as slick as glass with no paint brush lines” and the highly polished Crema Marfil marble floors are a point of pride.

“Craig did such a beautiful job on the floor,” she said. “They look just like casino floors — shiny with no seams. I lived in Vegas before I moved here, so it’s definitely Vegas-inspired.”

Cross Construction was just the company for such a job. The high-end kitchen and bath renovation company does 95 percent of its work with designer plans attached to it.

“Everything we do is custom,” Scott said.

“Everything the designers can dream, we can build. We take care of the detailing with our own craftsmen rather than subcontractors.”

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The company reconstructed Howard’s bathroom into a hisand-hers space that’s essentially one L-shaped room with two very different styles. The longer side of the L is what Howard calls “the ladies section,” with a 40-foot-long dressing area that has a large vanity and countertops of Honey Onyx. Creamcolored walls, crystal and gold touches and white marble floors define the space. It has a coffee bar area with refrigerator drawers where Howard stores creamer for her coffee and a few bottles of Champagne. A gold mirror hangs on the wall over the vanity with another mirror on top, giving the space even more dimension.

At the corner of the L is the shared shower and tub. Upon moving into “his side,” which is 32 feet long, the look gets much darker and heavier. Walnut floors and cabinetry, Winter Cloud marble countertops and a black oversized sink with gold fixtures were designed with traditional masculinity in mind. A heavy based clock and a bench with zebra cover are useful accessories.

“Betty knew exactly what she wanted in this space,” Scott said, noting that she designed the his-and-hers space with future buyers in mind. “She knows a lot about floor plans.”

After years of considering the best use of the space and working with a designer to draw out her ideas — followed by nearly six months of construction — Howard said she’s entirely pleased with the outcome.

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“It turned out exactly as I had envisioned it — and believe me, I had high aspirations for it,” she said. “They fulfilled my expectations, and they were pretty high. Craig did a very good job making this come to life.” v BUILDER Cross Construction Company 210.826.7200 | Crossconstructionsa.com urbanhomemagazine.com

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4. Palmpring’s certified organic coconut and natural latex mattresses offer durable, spring-like resilience thanks to rubberized coconut fibers. These luxurious, hypoallergenic, chemical and metal-free beds lack heat or water retention, resulting in a cool, bacteria-free environment. Palmpring. PalmpringUSA.com.

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A DOSE OF

INSPIRATION

By DANA W. TODD | Photography courtesy of ARTESIAN POOLS

N

o one ever said he feels the most creative in the middle of a honking city or amid the noise of the neighbor’s lawn mower and barking dog. An artist often expresses the need for a pastoral setting from which to draw inspiration for his artistic endeavors. Maybe a little mindless activity wouldn’t hurt creativity either — like taking a dip in the pool?

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The homeowners of this contemporary Spanish-style house in Alamo Heights in San Antonio, one a sculptor and one a watercolor painter, were faced with a segmented backyard when they purchased the house. A small yard space was enclosed by hedges and beyond that lay a meadow. The homeowners wanted to use all of the property and connect it visually to the house and an artists’ studio they planned to build where they urbanhomemagazine.com

could work each day. Plus, a dose of inspiration would be welcome for easing the transition between play and work.

Landscape architect John Troy developed a master plan for the family, a way to connect the existing house with a multitude of elements — an outdoor kitchen under a cabana, a work studio, planters and landscape beds, and a pool and spa with specialty water features. Brett Corrigan and Johnnie Brajkovic of Artesian Pools guided implementation of the custom water features.

Along with the homeowners’ longtime interior designer Derrick Dodge, the team worked with a cabana builder and studio builder to create a unified backyard concept with a splash of inspiration for the artists.

Troy designed a water focal point unifying the landscape and outbuildings, adding the tranquility and connection to nature the homeowners craved. The design included a vanishing edge pool complete with a cascading water feature on the side that faces the windows of the artist studio. This waterfall “white urbanhomemagazine.com

noise,” when added to the water sounds emanating from a 17-foot custom rainfall feature, grants relief from neighborly noises and provides the “ahhh” at the end of the day.

In the 16-jet spa connected to the pool, four wall jets provide a relaxing water massage when it’s time to take a break from working in the nearby studio. The spa jets are truly a custom feature. During construction, Corrigan’s team asked the husband and wife to stand against the jet wall and measured their heights so the jet action would hit them in just the right spots when in use. To remove any sort of element of “work” from the relaxing setting, Artesian Pools installed an automatic in-floor vacuum system to keep the pool and spa free from falling leaves from the graceful, twisting old oaks integrated into the landscape design.

Although the finished result is seamlessly integrated, beautiful, relaxing, and….you get the picture….it was a team effort to pull off the project with so many different contractors on site at once.

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“There were a lot of moving parts,” says Corrigan. “Each trade had to communicate well with every other trade to ensure a project of this scale was successful. We had to consider where to stage materials, for example, so they were out of the way of other contractors working in different areas of the yard and not impeding progress on the construction timeline.”

Although Corrigan says custom pools such as this one are not easily “transplantable” into other homeowners’ yards because of unique topographical and architectural constraints, there are some parts of this artistic retreat that can be “stolen” by homeowners looking for their own piece of heaven in the backyard.

“I wish infinity edge pools were used more frequently as a water feature and not just for viewing a vista,” Corrigan says.

“In this landscape, the reflective quality of the water allows the image of the art studio to be cast back into the water. Plus, you can hear the cascading water in the studio.”

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Materials throughout the design such as planters, tables, and even the pool tiles contribute to the Southwestern textures and colors the family loves.

Artesian Pools can move nimbly through a sizable project like this one because it focuses only on custom pool applications.

“We take on just a few very special projects each year,” Corrigan says, “and either my partner or I work with our clients all the way through the process until completion.

This allows us to be present when changes are needed during the construction process, which is inevitable with custom projects and very different from the way a production pool builder works.” v ARTESIAN POOLS 210.251.3211 | artesianpoolstx.com JOHN S. TROY LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT 210.222.1355 | johnstroylandarch.com urbanhomemagazine.com

AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR DESIGN custom homes • lofts spec homes • commercial Stephanie J. Villavicencio, ASID Texas Registered Interior Designer

512.443.3200 www.bellavillads.com

We’ve got great glass

www.VentanaMan.com 512-388-9400 1609 Chisholm Trail #100, Round Rock

lofty LIVING Treehouse Spa Room at Davis Ranch Retreat

By MAURI ELBEL

|

Photography courtesy of ANIMAL PLANET

Visit the treehouse spa room at The Davis Ranch Retreat and you can throw any notions of what you thought about arboreal structures completely out the window.

T

o be fair, this spectacular spa room perched in the treetops in Waelder, Texas, just an hour outside of Austin, was the creation of Pete Nelson –– the treeloving visionary and creative genius who lives and breathes treehouses, spending a large chunk of his life and career transforming his clients’ treetop dreams into livable reality.

The Davis Ranch Retreat’s treehouse spa room was featured on an episode of “Treehouse Masters” last year, the Animal Planet series that shows the world how the self-described tree whisperer builds fully-functioning homes in the trees.

After an initial discussion with The Davis Ranch Retreat’s owner, Monica Davis, Nelson learned she wanted her treehouse spa to feature a steam shower, massage table, a small bedroom to relax in, hot water and air conditioning.

“That was one of my challenges –– figuring out how to make the spa functional, while still having room to relax,” Nelson says.

“This treehouse has more things in it than a treehouse should have,” he adds, laughing. urbanhomemagazine.com

Out of the 400 or so treehouses Nelson has built over his 20 year career, Daryl McDonald has been his foreman and righthand man for about 350 of them, helping convert Nelson’s limitless imagination into resilient reality. Today, the Nelson crew works from their home base in Fall City, Washington, but they travel around the world constructing some of the most amazing treehouses imaginable. The crew has worked on projects all over the country, but they say the Texas trees keep calling them back.

“Texas is a hotbed for treehousing,” says McDonald. “We have done at least a dozen treehouses in Texas –– there are some really good trees in Texas.”

Whether it’s the abundance of trees, sprawling ranches or the Texas-sized spirit that flourishes throughout the Lone Star state, McDonald says there is a drive here to think outside of the box and do something a little different.

“A treehouse is a really great way for people to experience nature a bit more than they could in the city,” says McDonald.

“Treehouses really encourage that part of Texas culture.”

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When it comes to treehouse design, the team can do just about anything –– from a simple cocktail deck to a livable space complete with everything from air conditioning and a bathroom to a full kitchen with a refrigerator and dishwasher.

“The sky is the limit,” says McDonald. “We can build things up in the $300,000-plus range. These are basically high-end custom homes that are put into trees. Everything is thought through and designed to meet our expectations and the clients’ as well.”

When Davis approached Nelson and his team, they had never built a treehouse spa.

Naturally, their interest was piqued. Davis had a vision: a quiet, intimate space removed from the rest of the property with a massage table and Murphy® Bed so guests would have the option of getting a massage or staying overnight in the trees.

“She wanted a multi-use space, and usually treehouses are used for more than one purpose,” adds McDonald.

After an initial site consultation filled with meetings and measuring, the team headed back to their shop for a month of building the materials based on their drawings and completing the prefab work. Nelson and his team returned to Texas to get started on the three-weeklong installation, cladding the treehouse in siding and working with subcontractors to install everything from the septic to electrical systems.

“It all has to happen quickly, but the thing about treehouses is you can only have so many people up there at one time before it becomes unproductive,” says McDonald. “It’s a tight space, especially when you are trying to put up wall paneling.”

Red cedar shingles, a material from the Northwest that the team likes to bring with them on the road, as well as Douglas fir, another species brought from their home base, are the main materials featured on this Texas treehouse. Inside, the spa treehouse features a dual split HVAC system which contains a small unit on the wall that goes down to a compressor to provide space-appropriate, energy-efficient air conditioning and heat whenever needed. Both the steam shower, an element the Nelson crew had never built into one of their designs, and a Murphy® Bed, completes the multi-functionality of the space.

Rather than climbing into this treehouse as typically designed, the Nelson crew took advantage of the slope of the land to build a 45-foot skybridge that extends from the pool area of the main 56

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house into the trees. Walking in the spa room’s front door, there is a Murphy® Bed on the right, a massage table in the front of the room, and a self-contained bathroom on the left that houses the sink, mirror, toilet and steam shower. On the front deck, a sink was added to allow a massage therapist to wash up without disturbing the waiting client. It is a basic 200-square-foot single room and separate bath unit –– but it’s up in the trees.

Nestled in a cluster of live oak trees in a showcase spot on the property, the treehouse features an aesthetically pleasing curve to the slope of the roof, pulling the man-built structure into the natural environment.

The treehouse sits in the ideal spot –– it’s the first thing you see as you enter up the long driveway. Another advantage of this project was the durability of the trees where Davis wanted the treehouse built. The trees are the number one factor considered when choosing the placement of these treehouses, and everything from the species and trunk diameter to the height and proximity to the main house is considered. Live oaks are one of McDonald’s favorite species to work in, he says, because they have extremely hearty wood, don’t lose their leaves and stay shady year round. But no matter what treetop McDonald seems to be working in, he can’t think of a better office.

“It is fun, and it can be quite challenging in a positive way,” says McDonald of this line of work. “The good thing about treehouses is that they are all very unique. The trees kind of in their own way speak to you. They tell you what is allowed and what is not. Trees allow certain structures to be built in them in certain spots, and they always drive the design. You are never going to build the same treehouse twice because the trees aren’t the same and the space isn’t the same.”

Nelson says each time he builds a treehouse, the most special thing about the project is the person he is creating it for.

“I feel like I have a new emotional connection to the land here, and it feels good,” says Nelson. “Treehouses are very powerful structures, and for us to leave these little seeds of happiness is the greatest job in the world.” v NELSON TREEHOUSE AND SUPPLY Info@nelsontreehouseandsupply.com Nelsontreehouseandsupply.com urbanhomemagazine.com

LIVING ON

THE EDGE

By DANA W. TODD

T

|

Photography courtesy of DESIGNER POOLS & OUTDOOR LIVING

oday, more than ever, homeowners are extending their living space to include the backyard. From pools and spas to sophisticated outdoor living amenities such as outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and fire pits, backyards across the greater Austin area are being transformed into a haven for the ultimate “at home” enjoyment.

Designer Pools & Outdoor Living owners Brandon 58

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Sassenberg and Brad Marshall began designing outdoor spaces in 2007 at the request of their current clients for whom they built custom homes. Capitalizing on their expertise, they created a successful company that not only builds swimming pools and spas but also successfully designs and installs outdoor living features and landscaping.

The award-winning company uses a seasoned, creative team urbanhomemagazine.com

of professionals with multiple years of expertise in swimming pools, spas, outdoor living and landscape design, construction and maintenance to provide a high level of customization and help clients maximize the enjoyment of their entire backyards.

Critical to their designs is spending quality time identifying the ideal outdoor living environment perfectly complementing a homeowner’s interior space. The team always begins the process by conducting a backyard life assessment to learn the client’s ideas, style, site conditions and budget.

Two recent projects highlight this process and show the transformation from simple backyard to hideaway haven.

The first project, featuring a home with expansive views of the Hill Country and Lake Austin, exposed a special kind of need. This homeowner’s backyard faces west. The owners needed to control energy costs for the home and also wished to urbanhomemagazine.com

be able to entertain in the afternoons and early evenings when the hot, Western sun often made them want to escape inside the house. The professionals at Designer Pools designed and installed retractable screens to minimize the sun’s effect and help keep the rear of the house cool, all while not obstructing lake and rolling hill views.

With the shade problem resolved via remote controlled sunshades, the team was free to add lavish details such as Bull appliances to the outdoor kitchen, a sunken fire pit, a massive timber pergola, color LED laminar jets and multi-color LED lighting to the negative-edge pool, and a raised spa with knifeedge spillover and adjustable therapy jets.

“Every design feature can be accessed and controlled through wall-mounted iPads or a smartphone,” says designer Caroline Murphy, LEED AP. URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

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The second project, showcasing a sophisticated and elegant Spanish style home, offers breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country as well as Lake Travis. The homeowners wanted to maximize the scenic countryside, but the terrain was extremely rocky and severely sloped. To compensate for the land but achieve the client’s expectation of incorporating socializing spaces into their backyard, the Designer Pools & Outdoor Living team worked with the client’s architect to incorporate multi-level seating areas which enable easy accessibility from the house’s game room and media room, transitioning movement between interior and outside spaces. An exterior staircase enables easy access to each of these outdoor living areas, with a grill area that commands the best field of vision for the chef by providing an overlook of the hills, pool and patio.

“The outdoor living’s over-the-top detailing includes firstrate kitchen appliances, a handsome fire pit, a magnificent geometric pool and spa, multi-level seating, stone decking, and a hidden equipment room,” says Murphy. “Decorative iron railing, hand-painted mosaic tiles and multiple archways reflect Old World Spanish architecture and make this house a one-of-a-kind getaway.”

The team incorporated technical details, such as variable speed pumps, a highly efficient hydraulics system and an in-floor selfcleaning system. Working together, these systems answer the 60

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client’s need for a low-maintenance, efficient pool and spa and allow for optimum enjoyment of the outdoor space.

The professionals at Designer Pools & Outdoor Living rely on continuing education and staying current with the latest design trends and cutting-edge 3-D modeling software.

By taking the information from a backyard life assessment, designers create a finished look delivered in a conceptual video, complete with sound effects, landscaping and even people (perhaps yourself ) enjoying time by the pool.

“Long after their pools have been built, we want homeowners to experience complete enjoyment in the maintenance and efficiency of their pools — not just the swimming and relaxation their pools have to offer,” Murphy says. “That’s why we walk all of our clients through a complete pool school before turning their pools over to them. Our team will complete a comprehensive backyard pool, spa and outdoor living school that consists of teaching our clients the operation techniques for all equipment, water chemistry testing lessons and maintenance. For those who are limited on time, we offer complete after-care service and routine maintenance.” v DESIGNER POOLS & OUTDOOR LIVING 512.561.4211 | Designerpoolstx.com urbanhomemagazine.com

E CLECTIC, H ANDCRAFTED AND O NE-OF-A- K IND

GRAND OPENING

2108 B NW Military Hwy., San Antonio, Texas 78213 210.375.3138 | hopkinsblvdimports.com

COMMERCIAL n DESIGN

chavez:

A

t chavez, you’ll find an inextricable link between design and food.

“It’s about simple ingredients and good techniques,” says Shawn Cirkiel of the concept behind the dishes being churned out of his brand new poolside restaurant at the Radisson® on East Cesar Chavez. “At the end of the day that is also what design is — good ingredients and techniques done well.”

But no one would expect anything less from a collaboration between one of the city’s most coveted chefs and the architect whose name is synonymous with Austin restaurant design — Michael Hsu — who has shaped the look of some of the city’s most notable restaurants including Sway, La Condesa, Uchi, Uchiko and Olivia.

While chavez’s menu and design are both a nod to the restaurant’s prime downtown location and inspired by a blend of the flavors found throughout the Southwest, Texas and Mexico, nothing is delivered in an “in your face” sort of way, says Cirkiel.

In other words, don’t expect to find a Longhorn mounted on the wall or a combo plate of enchiladas, Spanish rice and refried 62

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Telling a story through design

By MAURI ELBEL

|

Photography by NICK SIMONITE

beans on the menu. Instead, you’ll discover a harmonious blend of Hsu’s signature contemporary style, clean lines and modern yet warm aesthetic paired perfectly with Cirkiel’s inventive, fresh and flavorful fare.

“Just like the food isn’t literal, the design isn’t literal,” explains Cirkiel. “This was meant to be a space of retreat; a transition from the hotel. We wanted to highlight where it is — in Austin, Texas, and what it all means.”

Cirkiel partnered with Forestar Group, owner of the fullservice Radisson® Hotel and Suites, to revamp chavez, which sits in the space previously occupied by a TGI Fridays for around two decades. With Hsu at the design helm, chavez’s head-to-toe transformation is now a worthy space befitting for one of the most desired pieces of real estate — and chefs — in town.

“This is the best dirt in Austin,” says Cirkiel. “So the thing we really wanted to do was tell the story. It became very much about the textiles and patterns — the Indian blankets, Mexican pottery, tribal designs — it is all very subtle but we try to utilize it all for a sense of place.” urbanhomemagazine.com

Floor-to-ceiling windows capture the iconic southeast views of downtown Austin’s Lady Bird Lake and the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge where the bats emerge at dusk. It’s a fitting scene for both the thoughtful dishes and design. The spacious venue features a light palette of creamy Texas pecan walls and ceilings, white tables, clean lines, simple furniture and interesting patterns. Since the tables skirting the windows would inevitably be the most desirable, booths around the restaurant’s perimeter were elevated to ensure every seat had a view.

“It was imperative to highlight the view so people inside the restaurant felt like they were part of the landscape,” says Brien Strelau, project designer at Michael Hsu Office of Architecture who managed the project. “Even if you are far away from the windows, you get a pretty great view.”

Rather than creating a theme for the restaurant, Cirkiel says he wanted to highlight the story of Austin. To do this, the emphasis was on utilizing local materials and calling on the skills of local artisans and craftsman. A look around the restaurant proves a natural gravitation toward the local, from the raw materials down to the furnishings.

Sand-toned milled Texas pecan forms the walls and ceilings.

Unique custom lighting by Austin’s Warbach Lighting and Design include pendant lights made from old peanut sifters suspended over the bar and white circular lighting fixtures made to evoke the letter “C” in chavez which float above the dining area. Dining tables were made by Austin’s Vintage Material Supply while Michael Yates, an Austin furniture designer, made the low bar seating tables from slabs of pecan and the 12-foot-long community table featuring a steel frame with a routed out table top displaying chavez’s signature graphics. Collaborating with Jett Butler, the branding brain and creative director behind FÖDA Studio, chavez’s identity began to take shape.

“We worked closely with them to bring their graphic identity for chavez into the architecture,” says Strelau. “In this project, we got urbanhomemagazine.com

a lot of satisfaction from collaborating with very talented people, which resulted in a whole that is better than the sum of its parts.”

Patterns are at play throughout the restaurant. Some of the most obvious ones include the unique backlit steel plate entry doors with the restaurant’s branding laser cut out of the steel, each letter stacked in different ways and weights referencing Mesoamerican textiles and culture, and the 12-foot-long community table which features the same pattern routed out of the wood top and then backlit. A locally built wine case plays off the chevron pattern in the foyer. Different multicultural textiles, textures and patterns abound throughout chavez, but the vibe you take away remains unmistakably Austin.

“It’s very inspirational,” says Cirkiel. “We tried to do really interesting fabric choices that continue with patterns and give texture and layers of flavor. Kind of like what we do with food, quite bluntly.”

At the breakfast, lunch and dinner restaurant, which also provides the hotel with room service, catering and poolside nosh plates, you can expect a culinary experience that rivals the visual one. The breakfast menu features everything from huevos rancheros and chicken fried steak and farm eggs served with crispy potatoes and white gravy to Texas French toast and local milled griddle cakes. At lunch, try appetizers like oyster taquitos with avocado crema, habanero and slaw, six different tortas, and entrees like striped bass and salmon veracruz. For dinner, start with raw bar selections like the Malpeque or Bluepoint oysters before tucking into entrees like the lamb en mole, or one of Cirkiel’s favorites: the marinated blade steak al pastor served with charred tomato, radish and onion. “It’s so delicious,” he says. “Almost like a reverse taco.”

Just be sure to save room for innovative desserts like the mango con queso with cream cheese whip, chile mango ribbons, roasted pineapple, pepita tuille, piloncillo crumble and mango sorbet, each one made in-house by Cirkiel’s talented pastry team. It doesn’t seem fair to preview the food without URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

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mentioning the hand-crafted cocktails — think smoked cherry margaritas concocted with Don Julio Repo, cherry, habanero and lime or chavez’s sazerac made with mescal, piloncillo, Pernod and bitters.

Chavez remains clean and light throughout but punctuations of brightness, from the red lantern tile seen beneath the bar and in the backdrop of the restaurant’s seating area to the eyecatching bold magenta and navy patterns on the restroom ceilings provided by Flavor Paper, are well-executed.

With breakfast, lunch, dinner and bar service, one of the biggest challenges was maintaining the right balance throughout different times of the day. The goal was to keep chavez comfortable and flexible despite the level of occupancy or whether the restaurant was filled with dining patrons or guests gathered around the bar. The solution came in the form of a white dividing screen of panels of white wood arranged in a cohesive design with various waves and depths that remains both visually interesting and free of opaque barriers. It keeps the restaurant open while creating a subtle sense of separation.

“It really allows there to be a separation but at the same time it remains seamless in and out,” says Cirkiel. “And it allows for different moods and different themes. It’s the simple things that end up being the most inspirational.”

Again, these words are analogous to Cirkiel’s culinary philosophy in general. As one of Austin’s most talented chefs, he certainly didn’t need another restaurant to occupy his time — chavez is Cirkiel’s latest endeavor joining his other popular restaurants: parkside, the backspace and olive & june. But despite days that start around 6 a.m. and don’t end until around 1 a.m., he seems happy and enthusiastic about getting to do exactly what he loves. Although he jokes that he now remembers why his other restaurants aren’t open for breakfast.

“You know, it’s like kids — it just kind of happens,” he says of his four restaurants. “You have a few conversations and then things just kind of happen.”

Each day, Cirkiel makes it a point to spend some time and, of course, eat at each of his restaurants. But most of the time, there is a good chance he is hard at work at the newest addition of the family.

“It’s the baby,” he says of chavez. “The baby needs the most attention.” v RESTAURANT chavez 512.478.2991 | chavez-austin.com ARCHITECT Michael Hsu Office of Architecture – Austin 512.706.4303 | Hsuoffice.com BUILDER Burt-Watts 512.275.0881 | Burtwatts.com 64

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ESSENTIALS

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OUTDOOR GAMES 2

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1. Rollors® is a fun outdoor yard game of skill with the element of chance that’s entertaining for the entire family. Players “roll” disks at the goal and points are awarded to the player/team that positions their disks closest to the goal. A convenient carry bag allows you to bring Rollors® with you wherever you go. It sets up in seconds on grass or in the sand. Now you’re ready to roll your way to fun! Rollors®. Rollors.com.

2. Open a bag of fun! Murbles® are 100 percent American made and require no set up. Simply dump the three inch diameter balls out of the bag and you’re in the game. Murbles® weigh a half pound each, just right for smaller hands and older shoulders.

Available in custom color selections to match your school or team colors. Murbles® are made for family fun! Murbles®. Murblegame.com

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3. Ringer Toss is a new, fun, fast scoring and easy to play game — simply fling your ring to knock off cups and get ringers (your ring over a pole). It’s so light and portable; everything fits into a small backpack and weighs less than seven pounds. Toss it over your shoulder and bring the fun with you. You’ll have the game set up in under a minute without any fasteners or hardware — so grab your Ringer Toss and get out and play! Ringer Toss. Ringertoss.com.

4. Flimsee® is a Frisbee® game, a team sport and outstanding fun! It involves two goalposts with cups on them. The goal is to gain points by flipping cups off the poles and/or by passing the disc cleanly between them. Defense is always a blast as catching the cups keeps the other team from scoring. The real goal is bringing together friends, family or community for some undeniable fun. Flimsee®. Flimsee.com.

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5. AMERICOOB is a new version of a 1000 year old Viking game played by millions worldwide. On grass or sand, two teams take turns underhand pitching batons and trying to topple all four of their opponent’s coob-blocks, then the king. Whether you’re a guy, a girl, old or young … anyone can coob and anyone can win. AMERICOOB, patented and made in the USA, is crafted out of smooth, waterproof plasticlumber. AMERICOOB. Americacoob.com.

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works WHY THIS

SPACE Designer Spotlight: Debbie Baxter

By MAURI ELBEL | Photography by MICHAEL HUNTER

Debbie Baxter of Baxter Design Group believes interior design is a response to the architecture and occupants of the spaces. “That being said, I try to work to make living spaces beautiful and well curated,” says Baxter. “My favorite projects are those done with talented architects like Roy Braswell because I know the bones are great and the proportions and the scale are luxurious.” This family home, tucked inside one of San Antonio’s older, iconic neighborhoods, serves as testament of Baxter’s ability to harmoniously marry design and architecture. Baxter was part of the original home’s design 14 years ago and has assisted this family with various interior projects over the years.

When the clients recently decided to add a pool house, the San Antonio-based designer was standing by to help. As an integral part of this project from the ground up, Baxter has once again helped to create a space that has remained in tune with the home’s existing architecture while serving as a functional, multi-purpose addition that suits the needs of a growing family.

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urbanhomemagazine.com

Please provide a bit of background behind this home and the more recent pool house addition.

DB: I worked on this San Antonio project with Roy Braswell when this couple built their home 14 years ago. This pool house addition was designed recently to accommodate their growing family’s needs, and yet, it required strict adherence to the architectural style of the main home. I still have the hard copy of the husband’s main house budget for construction and interiors because he had done his due diligence in determining the costs and they stuck to it. I was impressed that someone had taken the time to access what it would cost to build a home with such realistic expectations. They took the time to realize those expectations over the years; they didn’t just do this all at once. It took these homeowners the full 15 years to realize their dream home.

Looking at the completed project, how do you define this space and what elements really help speak to its overall feel?

DB: There is a great vibe between the architectural materials which are hand-hewn and very regional and the juxtaposition of our more youthful, modern furniture. It seems to say “this building may look vintage but the occupants are young, vibrant and full of energy.” I love that the building looks strong and fortress-like –– a protector of the inhabitants from the hot Texas sun and other natural elements.

There is a nice contrast of materials at play throughout the pool house –– please tell us about the wood ceilings, stonework and the finishes.

DB: The marriage of materials is signature for Roy Braswell. urbanhomemagazine.com

He uses them so well with the great punctuations of big panes of glass which let in the natural light. The stone is Lueders limestone. The wood ceilings and beams are Douglas fir. And the backsplash tile is from Redondo Tiles and Stone in San Antonio while the countertops are from Delta Granite and Marble, Inc. What drew you to the interesting side and center tables situated around the L-shaped sofa in the exterior covered space of the pool house?

DB: I am always on “the hunt” –– editing the vast global chain of resources, both new and vintage. I have my chest of treasured artisans and collectors I team up with for the perfect additions to any space. In this case, everything had to be suitable for a non-climatized space that is somewhat open to the elements.

I love the flow of this space –– the way the outdoor courtyard area seamlessly blends into the open-air covered area and then into the interior pool house.

How do these spaces function for this family now?

DB: There is room for many to gather at one time. A large family needs spaces that work for adults and children of varying ages all at the same moment. The fireplace sitting area is a conversation space as is the open air covered area, but the spaces are easily adaptable to serve an array of purposes.

There is a wall-mounted big TV, of course, and the long dining table for family dinners or European-inspired al fresco dining.

We designed a modular, fold-up serving table that can be placed under the TV for buffets. The interior space is climate URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

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controlled and the windows can be blacked out, eliminating all light for serious movie watching, video games and resting. All the chairs in the space swivel 360 degrees so the television does not have to be the only pastime for this arrangement. There is a game table for cards, games or small dinners, and a full bar for refreshments.

Were there any specific design elements you used throughout these spaces to create flow and cohesion between the rooms?

DB: We set the color scheme via the great looking encaustic tile on the bar backsplash. The big, luxurious blue and natural Tibetan wool rug anchors the sitting area and makes the large room acoustically tight. The over-scaled leather center ottoman serves multi purposes, and since it is set on casters, it can be easily adapted to allow the occupants to stretch out.

We matched the color of the ceiling to the stained concrete floor. It all works with the exterior stone and brick for the shell of the room and gave us the opportunity to punch color into the furnishings.

Please describe your furniture selections and decor.

Were there any particular lines you gravitated toward or are the pieces custom designed?

DB: The wooden furniture is purchased, but we custom designed all the upholstered furniture and seating, using fabric from Perennials. Most of it is custom-made by our favorite local crafts people. We intentionally used indoor/outdoor textiles for the best family-friendly upkeep.

Knowing this family and working with them over the years, was there anything you kept in the back of your mind during the design process?

DB: This space just works so well for a fun family who cares about stylish spaces but wanted minimal upkeep. All the fabrics are indoor/outdoor fabrics which make it very easy to keep clean. The rug is 100 percent wool, a natural fiber you can clean easily. The floors are stained concrete which requires very little upkeep. It’s really very easy to take care of this space. It’s clutterless –– even the bar area is built-in so there are no problems keeping that space tidy either.

How has this addition, which includes an interior family room with powder room, a covered exterior family space, a bedroom with a full bath and an exercise room, enhanced the property and lives of the homeowners?

DB: It was a vacant lot before they were able to acquire the property and make room for the addition. Now their growing family has room for the older teens to entertain friends. It’s neither oversized nor over-scaled. They can use the pool house for a guest area when they have visitors. The entire compound is cozy, inviting and easily managed by the owners. v DESIGNER Baxter Design Group 210.828.4696 | Baxterdesigngroup.com ARCHITECT Braswell Architecture, Inc. 210.829.7111 | Braswellarchitecture.com 68

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REALTOR’S ADVICE

CURB APPEAL TO

SEAL THE DEAL

By Bill Evans, 2014 President, Austin Board of REALTORS®

S

ummer is upon us and the only thing hotter than the temperature this summer is the housing market.

What are you doing to turn heads in your home’s direction? As swarms of potential homebuyers are preparing to search the city, here are a few tips homeowners looking to sell can do to help boost curb appeal and seal the deal.

A Fresh Coat Be sure to take a careful look at the front porch or patio and apply a fresh coat of paint or stain for a fresh look. Consider painting the front door a bright color that would contrast well with the walls and roof. Check your driveway and sidewalks as well to see if they need pressure washing. Finally, take a look at your house numbers and see how they are currently displayed. If dull and generic, update with a fresh coat of paint in a new type font or even replace with metal lettering.

Landscape Finesse Cut back over-growing bushes and tree limbs that are blocking or touching the house. Consider mulch or fine gravel to fill in older flower beds and replace patches of dead grass to liven up the area. Vegetable dyed pine needles, pine bark nuggets and straw mulch provide nice color, are cheap and take awhile to breakdown.

Examine your driveway and sidewalk and kill off any weeds that might be growing through the cracks. If the concrete is heavily damaged, consider patching. Also, be sure to check for ant piles and wasp nests and remove accordingly.

Repair, Replace, Replenish Potential homeowners aren’t looking for broken homes. Take a look at your roof carefully and add or replace any tiles or shingles that are missing or damaged. Wipe down season worn porch lights and replace the bulbs if necessary. More than likely your gutters will need to be cleaned out and don’t be afraid to apply a coat of paint to chipped areas. Finally, be sure to replace the door bell button if cracked and replace the lock set if rusted and finicky.

Austin is on pace to see another historic year in real estate in 2014 and the busiest season is only just beginning to ramp up.

Be sure to consult your REALTOR® for more ways to insure your home is in excellent shape and ready to be shown.v

ESSENTIALS

REMODELER’S ADVICE

NEW PRODUCTS

COMPOSITE DECKING

OUTDOOR LIVING

OPTIONS

1. The Balcony Collection

by Big Grass is handmade in Thailand from reclaimed rubberwood. This seating, dining and entertainment collection is perfect for small outdoor spaces or for bright indoor accents. Enhance your Karma with these right-sized pieces that evoke a colorful past. Big Grass Living.

210.735.7999 / 877.735.7999, Biggrassliving.com.

R

andy Meek of Austin’s Eastside Lumber & Decking offers a variety of composite decking options for you to consider when planning your outdoor spaces.

Composite decking is an attractive, very low maintenance alternative to natural wood decking. In general, it is made of a combination of wood fiber and polyethylene, thus the name composite decking. The wood fiber content is there for stability, ensuring that the boards do not expand and contract with temperature as a solid plastic deck would.

The poly content adds durability, longevity and a base for a color. The combination of the two makes for a good looking, durable, virtually maintenance-free deck.

SAVANA SCHROEDER-BECKMAN,

President, Austin NARI

RODNEY HILL,

2. Seaside Casual is a balance of traditional style recreated with modern materials. A High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) lumber gives the durability to withstand a harsh New England winter or a South Texas heat wave.

This handcrafted furniture looks great, is easy to maintain and can be left outdoors year-round without worry. Cozy Outdoor Escapes. 210.276.0734, Cozyoutdoorescapes.com.

President, First generation composite decking is a NARI San Antonio thoroughly homogenous board, with the inside and outside having the same composition. This results in a long lasting, low maintenance, low initial-cost deck. Examples of first generation composite decking are the Trex® Accents line, the EverGrain® Decking line and the MoistureShield® Decking line, each of which is an excellent choice for a budget-minded composite decking shopper who still wants a beautiful, durable, high quality deck.

3. The rich patina and hammered iron on this one-of-a-kind, antique vessel will weather perfectly, making it an ideal accessory for both indoors and out. Hopkins Boulevard Imports. 210.375.3138, Hopkinsblvdimports.com.

The most significant change in manufacturing of composite decking has recently resulted in the second generation composite decking lines. Some complaints about first generation composite decking have included color fading, scratching and staining.

These problems have been greatly reduced in second generation composite decking. Generally, second generation composite decking consists of a composite core which is capped by a layer of harder, denser polyethylene on the surface. This harder surface is much more difficult to scratch, non-porous so it will not stain, more fade resistant and can be made to mimic the subtle variations in color of real wood. The result is a more beautiful deck with more durability and even lower maintenance. Examples of second generation composites are the Trex Transcend® line and the Fiberon Horizon® line.

Composite decking will add beauty, usefulness and enjoyment to your outdoor spaces for many years to come. For more information, contact Eastside Lumber & Decking at 512.492.3950. v To find a professional remodeler or interior designer in Austin or San Antonio, visit: Austinnari.org or Remodelsanantonio.org.

Photo by CASEY DUNN

MAKING THE

PIECES FIT

RAHNEE GLADWIN’S MOSAIC CREATIONS PLAY WITH COLOR AND LIGHT

By JACKIE BENTON

A happy dragon stamps its feet in the kitchen, anticipating the next hot meal. Rainbow-hued fish swim lazily amid the colorful reefs and corals of a lovely master bath. Tiles and glass combine to create a glittering reflection of the open sea, inviting diners in a restaurant to see themselves as not dining beside the ocean, but as part of the ocean itself. Mosaic and tile artist Rahnee Gladwin, Allied AIA, sees her world as a mosaic artist as one with infinite possibilities and outcomes — from helping create beautiful mosaic pieces for kitchens, baths and swimming pools to selecting tile for homes, restaurants and even a historic restoration work in Fredericksburg and a lighthouse in Port Aransas.

“

T

he materials, the vision, the permanence of the project you’re creating… this is something that is not going to be here today and gone tomorrow.

There is always the possibility it will be here quite a long time, and will be true to that space and be spectacular at the same time. So, it’s a real challenge to make it absolutely wonderful,” Gladwin says. “There are so many different textures and colors with the medium that you can play with that make it a really wonderful artistic medium to be able to work with. It’s very plastic in the sense of what you can bring into the project as far as the materials go, and what you can do with it to evoke the sense of different types of things.”

Gladwin, a Texas Licensed Interior Designer, an Allied Member of the American Institute of Architects and a member of the Tile Heritage Foundation has worked exclusively with stone, glass, metal and ceramic tile since 1997, and specializes in custom mosaic design and assembly.

While Gladwin was fascinated with ceramics in art school, her chosen career was as an interior designer in San Antonio. “As an interior designer, I had more and more clients asking for interesting tile for their projects, and I just couldn’t get the information I needed. The people in the tile showrooms couldn’t really tell us anything about what they were selling, and I needed to know because handmade tile is a very specific product — and suddenly I saw a need for someone with this interest and knowledge of ceramics.”

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Photo by CASEY DUNN URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

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Photo by THOMAS MCCONNELL

Gladwin’s hunch to pursue a niche as an interior designer who specializes in tile and mosaic arts has earned her the title of becoming the “go to” person when an architect or designer needs to create or source tile for a particular project. “I knew other interior designers needed my services because I needed my services. I could actually speak with interior designers on their level and knew the in’s and out’s of the trade,” Gladwin explains.

“They could tell me the focus of their project, I could narrow down the choice selection to allow them to specify their choices, order the pieces and deliver it. That’s pretty much when I came up with ‘Dream it, Create it, Source it and Deliver it.’ That’s the focus of what I do.”

Some of those dreams have been very whimsical ones. A couple commissioned Gladwin to create a “happy dragon” for their kitchen. “Those clients came to me without a large budget and wanted the happy dragon in their kitchen,” laughs Gladwin.

“Now, what a happy dragon could be is almost anything, so I researched dragons and presented them with a line drawing which they loved, filled it in with fun colors, and it is now an all-glass mosaic. I just took that idea and ran with it.”

Another fun project involved creating a reef environment for a master bath as part of a project from interior designer Robin Black, ASID / IIDA, of San Antonio. “The lady who was behind the project wanted to recreate the atmosphere from when she was a child and would snorkel in Tahiti. I fortunately had been to Tahiti and I knew what she was talking about — the incredible 74

URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

colors of the fish and the reefs. She gave me full artistic license to do what I did, but she had final say. I showed her different fish I could put in and her husband had a couple of fish he definitely wanted. I did a lot of research on reefs and reef life, as well as the sourcing and how to incorporate the colors into the work. It was incredibly tiny, with each piece 3/8ths by 3/8ths, so it allowed for incredible detail.”

Other projects have been less whimsical, but no less creative.

Gladwin worked with the architecture design firm Lake Flato in San Antonio for the Witte Museum to create a 10-ft by 12-ft mosaic tile piece called “The Maze” representing a Navajo rug from the museum’s collection in an open deck area. Gladwin has also been called upon to research and create historic-era terracotta tiles for a historic-style home in Fredericksburg, Texas, so that the house best represented the merging of Spanish and German styles popular at the time. “The tiles are all handmade and reflective of the Fredericksburg area at that particular era. You just could not take that tile away from that home and have it be the same thing,” she says. Another historic project has included the restoration of a lighthouse in Port Aransas for grocery magnate Charles Butt. Gladwin cherished traveling with interior designer Robin Black by boat to visit the lighthouse to ensure everything was historically accurate.

One of Gladwin’s latest projects is the Seaglass Restaurant in San Francisco, California. “I just finished working with Lundberg Design to create custom glass blends of 4x8 tile on the back urbanhomemagazine.com

Photo by THOMAS MCCONNELL

wall of the restaurant that were reflective of the San Francisco Bay. That was a lot of fun — it was big and commercial and very exciting to provide something for such an open, public area. It really anchors the space to the bay, which is what we wanted to do. The walls are right against the San Francisco Bay, and then your eye swings over to the windows that look over the bay, and it’s a fabulous, incredible space.”

One of the challenges of Gladwin’s chosen medium is to create dimensionality, so that the mosaics have flow and seem to move across the surface of the wall or floor. “Mosaic doesn’t have to be a flat thing.

While it is going on a flat wall, with certain tricks you can give it three dimensional qualities, and that’s what’s really fun. I’ll use stone, in both matte and polished finishes, glass and ceramic, and will combine all those things together on certain mosaics. For the underwater reef I did combine all three together to achieve the color saturation and also the surface color. Using glass added depth, so that your eye didn’t just stop at the surface of the color.

“I know we do a lot of mosaics, but I also enjoy playing with the design and using all tile aspects, so that you’re building into an image in a particular space in tile. That’s why I take it from the dream stage to the creation stage which is finding materials, sourcing them and making them into an actual thing or vision, and then delivering the pieces with instructions,” Gladwin says.

“Although I prefer to do this all the way from start to finish, sometimes I can only direct people to materials and colors they want to use as a consultant.”

Narrowing down the choices has been an area where Gladurbanhomemagazine.com

Photo by DALE TAN

win’s considerable knowledge and artistic vision has been a blessing for both interior designers and homeowners. “You need someone like me to say, ‘Here are the options we can pull from looking at your budget and here’s where we can go,’ and help you find your way forward, as opposed to many people who go to the showrooms and get confused looking at the selections, which are overwhelming. If you have someone you can work with who knows the products, who knows what’s out there and knows your vision, it can save you time, effort, money and confusion,” she says.

“You want to know the vision of the project and start Courtesy of R GLADWIN / I DESIGN TILE working on finding those particular tiles so that your exterior tile and your interior tile will all flow together as a total unit. So many projects out there consider tile as an afterthought, particularly with residential properties, where they put so much energy into talking about the paint and the windows and the doors, but they don’t think about the tile. You want to make sure the whole project flows together and that you’ve got a tile design. It doesn’t have to be expensive, it could be off-the-shelf tile to high-end custom tile made just for you, but making sure that tile works with your project and what you have and is a reflection of what you want and your vision. You’re going to change your paint, you’re going to change your carpet, you’re going to change your furniture, but you’re going to be looking at your tile for 30 or so years.” v RAHNEE GLADWIN R Gladwin i Design Tile 210.859.9939 | Idesigntile.com URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

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FOOD n DESIGN

BETTER LIVING THROUGH JUICING

By CLAUDIA ALARCON

Although fresh pressed fruit and vegetable juices are nothing new, it seems that they are now more popular than ever. They not only taste delicious, but provide an incredible amount of nutrition: when you see the amount of veggies that go into making a 24 ounce cup of juice, it really is the equivalent to eating a salad.

W

hile some enjoy these fresh juices occasionally, others use them for a higher purpose through cleansing. A juice cleanse is a short term, fresh, raw, all liquid diet that can last anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks. During a juice cleanse you receive plenty of sustenance, all through freshly-pressed veggie and fruit juices. This gives your body — including filtering or76

URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

gans like liver, kidneys and gall bladder — a break from heavy proteins, fat and other diet components that take a lot of work to process, so your body is able to eliminate toxins accumulated in the tissues. After a juice cleanse people usually feel healthier, energized and focused, they sleep better and crave better foods. I first did a juice cleanse in 2012 and loved the results. I even lost weight as an unintended side effect! urbanhomemagazine.com

work experience in the food and beverage industry, and is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. The San Antonio native has always felt nutrition is key to good health, and brings her knowledge of health and wellness to the business. “I had already been a juicer myself off and on for years,” she says. “Then in 2012 I watched the documentary ‘Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead’ from Joe Cross, and that’s what revived my interest in juicing, both personally and as a business.” Utilizing every available resource, their entrepreneurial spirit and good credit, the Baughns opened Farm to Juice in Stone Oak in 2013 and their second location in The Elms shopping center at the end of January 2014. Thanks to their COURTESY OF JUICELAND BARTON SPRINGS resounding success, they hope to open a third location this year as well.

Farm to Juice uses B. Catalini, a local, family-owned proJUICELAND duce company in business now for 100 years, for most of the But juice cleanses require commitment and endurance. produce. “They source local first, then outsource when growI was lucky to receive support and guidance from the folks ing seasons don’t accommodate it,” says Lisa. “All the produce at JuiceLand, Austin’s premiere, award-winning juice bar. is certified and we feel confident in the quality. We soak all Owner Matt Shook has been in the fresh juice business since the produce in an apple cider vinegar rinse for 10 minutes 2003, when he opened Daily Juice with a friend. In 2011, first, followed by a fresh water bath twice before it’s juiced.

Matt parted ways from Daily Juice, transforming the Barton We press at our main store in Stone Oak, then bottle and disSprings Road and Deep Eddy locations into JuiceLand. With tribute it.” They don’t currently sell their incredibly inventive a new and revitalized menu, and the original core team memjuice blends in any retail stores. Because it’s fresh pressed and bers, JuiceLand now has seven locations all around Austin, unpasteurized, it wouldn’t have the shelf life most stores would and continues to grow. want. But, they do hope to get into the New Braunfels FarmThe staff at JuiceLand doesn’t offer guidance on cleansing ers’ Market soon. (“people can consult with a nutritionist or dietitian if they “Our vision is to continue growing and expanding across want,” Shook says), but they certainly offer support. Their the city and beyond, spreading joy and good health to all. website features a whole section dedicated to cleansing, with We hear every day from our customers how many positive information and advice as well as custom cleanse packages that changes they are experiencing since incorporating juice into customers can tailor to their needs, order online, and pick up their lives. One told us she recently was taking five cardiac at their preferred location. Popular juices that can be used as prescriptions, and is now off all of them. Another did a 30 part of a cleanse are the tangy and savory Ninja Bachelor Party day juice cleanse through us, and lost 45 pounds! Yet another (pineapple, jalapeño, celery, kale, spinach, parsley and salt), told us her total cholesterol went from 180 to 100 after about the Thai-Salad-in-a-Glass Tree of Life (carrot, turmeric, coco6 months of juicing. It’s these testimoninut, ginger, lime, cayenne and beet), the als that affirm what we do and give it creamy and filling Tri-Pinnacle (coconut, meaning and fulfillment.” v avocado, spinach and kale), and the cleverly named Xtra Holla Pain Yo! (jalapeño, FARM TO JUICE garlic, carrot, orange, cilantro, lime and Stone Oak: 210.332.5853 salt). But you don’t have to cleanse to The Elms: 210.257.9584 enjoy these delicious beverages. Any of Farmtojuice.net JuiceLand’s fresh-pressed fruit or veggie juices and smoothies is a great start for JUICELAND the day, and makes a perfect afternoon Barton Springs: 512.480.9501 pick-me-up.

Deep Eddy: 512.628.0782 North Burnet: 512.524.1129 FARM TO JUICE Hyde Park: 512.380.9046 In San Antonio, Robert and Lisa Oak Hill: 512.865.7081 Baughn recently started a new business, E. Cesar Chavez: 512.351.8439 Farm to Juice. Aside from a Master’s Lakeway: 512.284.9044 degree in nursing with a certificate in COURTESY OF FARM TO JUICE Juicelandaustin.com Natural Wellness, Lisa has 10 years of urbanhomemagazine.com

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FABULOUS n FINDS

COOKING SCHOOLS TRAVAASA AUSTIN

By JULIE CATALANO

LA FOGATA

SPARROW BAR + COOKSHOP

GATEWAY GUESTHOUSE

Cooking classes are hotter than hot, and why not? It’s a fun way to pick up new skills and recipes while meeting others who share your passion for good food, maybe even some that’s (gulp) good for you. Whatever your tastes — from a laid-back cooking demo to the adrenaline rush of an immersion experience — make room on your plate to check out some of the area’s most appetizing offerings. The best part?

You get to eat the results.

Yum! 78

THE CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA SAN ANTONIO 312 Pearl Parkway, Bldg. 2, Suite 2102, San Antonio 210.554.6400 | ciachef.edu Photography courtesy of the CIA They don’t call it Boot Camp for nothing.

Fun and fast-paced, these totally immersive classes let you choose how long you want to stay and play in the ultimate cooking class experience at the CIA, located at the historic Pearl District north of downtown. Serious cooks can enroll in two- to five-day Boot Camps in everything from mouthwatering hors d’ouevres to delectable desserts. A four- to five-hour

URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

Food Enthusiasts version divides 16 participants into teams of four to tackle cuisines from Italy, Asia, Spain, Thailand and more, along with baking, grilling and other skills in a full commercial kitchen complete with your own CIA apron and nifty toque blanche (paper version of chef ’s hat). Two-hour First Taste food demos cover sweet and savory comfort foods, salads, soups and sandwiches. But “the handsurbanhomemagazine.com

on classes are the most popular,” says award-winning chef Sergio Remolina, an incredibly patient and jovial instructor (at least at our half-day Latin Boot Camp) who stresses teamwork and planning. “It’s not like cooking in your home kitchen.”

No kidding — it took a village to create the tantalizing buffet of a dozen South American favorites from Peru, Ecuador, Argentina and Bolivia. Fees vary according to type and length of class. Reservations recommended.

LE CORDON BLEU 3110 Esperanza Crossing #100, Austin 866.906.3222 | chefs.edu Another powerhouse in the world of cooking institutions, just the name transports you back in time to the famed Parisian school founded in 1895. The Austin campus holds Bleu Ribbon Kitchen Enthusiasts Workshops for all ages and levels.

Like the CIA, they range from multi-day intensives to Petit Workshops held on Saturdays. These one-day sessions are designed to give just a taste of the culinary life in their ultramodern commercial kitchen overseen by Le Cordon Bleu professional chefs. Upcoming summer Petit Workshops include Rustic Desserts, Southern Style Soul Food Cookin’, Brazilian Street Food, and Bistro Pastries and Desserts. Foodie alert!

On Saturday, July 12, come watch the chefs in action at their Bastille Day Cooking Celebration and Open House. Space is limited, so call ahead to get in on the commemoration of French freedom and food demos — baguettes, crepes, vichyssoise, chocolate mousse and more. More open houses coming up in the fall: International Cuisine Spectacular on Saturday, September 20; and the Art of Pastries on Saturday, October 18. These events are free and open to the public, but don’t forget to répondez s’il vous plaît (RSVP).

LA FOGATA 2427 Vance Jackson Road, San Antonio 210.340.1337 | lafogata.com Photography courtesy of La Fogata Fresh, fiery and fun, La Fogata (“open flame”) is one of the

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hottest spots in town for Mexican food aficionados — about 6,000 guests a week indulge in authentic favorites, famed fireroasted salsa, and of course their legendary margaritas in colorful indoor-outdoor spaces that seem to go on forever. Founded in 1978, this year this San Antonio institution started its own cooking classes, and here’s how they work: Classes using Old World, time-tested recipes are a combined experience, effectively turning a great meal into a learning experience, and vice versa.

Grab a group of six or more and when making reservations for lunch or dinner, arrange a class that works for you: For classes in Guacamole, Fajitas, Ceviche or Salsa, the $50 per person fee includes the entree; Margarita classes are $25 (no entree). Then sit back and learn that salsa’s secrets or even better, the mysteries of those marvelous Margaritas. Hint: The most hands-on classes are Guacamole and Margaritas, but even with the partial demos, you’ll still be involved in culinary creations. Salud!

TRAVAASA AUSTIN 13500 Farm to Market Road 2769, Austin 512.364.0061 | travaasa.com Photography courtesy of Travaasa Austin

The only other Travaasa Experiential Resort is in Hana, Hawaii, so Central Texans are privileged to have this upscale retreat right in their own backyard. Opened in 2011 and set on 210 acres of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, seven lodges with 70 guest rooms feature first-class amenities in a secluded escape about 25 minutes from downtown Austin.

Culinary classes are short but focused (about one hour) and are just part of the wealth of programming available — yoga, fitness, hiking, horseback riding, pool, spa, even mechanical bull riding. What makes the cooking classes special, says spokesperson Maryam Brown, is their intimacy and emphasis on seasonal ingredients fresh from their own on-site, 10-acre farm. For guests only (most are inclusive, some have additional fees), past demos have included Working with Chocolate and hands-on International Flavors. “The whole idea is for people to truly get away,” says Brown. “See the farm where the class and restaurant ingredients come from, relax, recharge, and enjoy new learning experiences.”

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GATEWAY GUESTHOUSE 1001 E. Riverside Drive, Austin 512.326.2646 | gatewayguest.com Photography by Laurie Fryar

SPARROW BAR + COOKSHOP 3701 Travis Street, Houston 713.524.6922 | sparrowhouston.com Photography by Debora Smail Although most people only know chef Monica Pope as a competitor on Bravo TV’s Top Chef Masters 2010 season, the fact is that this trailblazing culinary pioneer has been recreating Houston’s food scene for the past 25 years — and now lucky students are learning from the modest master in her own charming, unfussy Sparrow restaurant. Down to earth funny, and full of ideas on how to turn “healthy, sustainable and good — a lot of words we’ve been throwing around for a while” into handson, practical classes for people interested in eating better, Pope has launched a series of interactive and private cooking classes focused on back to basics. With her new Food-As-Medicine Dinner Series, Pope — a longtime proponent of local food as a member of the first Farmers Market in Houston — tackles such topics as improving digestion, heart health, blood pressure, diabetes and more. “People will tell me what they want to learn.

I have about 100 recipes to pull from.” Often working with integrative dietitian Ali Miller of Naturally Nourished, classes are low key and unpretentious: “It’s pretty DIY. We’re all in the kitchen and upstairs, cooking, drinking, listening to music, engaging all of our senses. My whole journey is getting people to enjoy healthy food without it being a downer.” v

Chef Bess is in the house! The luxury B&B Gateway Guesthouse, that is. Classes by innkeeper/chef Bess Giannakakis in July and August will focus on a smorgasbord of authentic multi-ethnic family recipes, summer cookouts and those allimportant knife skills. Sauces, breads, pastries, barbecue and classic Greek and Tuscan fare are perennial faves. Open to the public, fees include all menu ingredients and a take-home recipe booklet. Custom cooking classes for four+ also available.

THE PEACH BASKET NATURAL FOODS & SUPPLEMENTS 334 W. Main, Fredericksburg 830.997.4533 | peachbasketonline.com Photography courtesy of The Peach Basket Natural Foods & Supplements

SUMMER SAMPLINGS SANDY OAKS OLIVE ORCHARD 25195 Mathis Road, Elmendorf 210.621.0044 | sandyoaks.com It is all about olives here. Olive oil, olive leaf jelly, olive soap, and yes, even olive trees for your very own. An ideal day trip about 25 minutes from downtown San Antonio, Sandy Oaks has 38 varieties of trees in its orchard, plus an outdoor kitchen for cooking and grilling demos starting in June. Check the website under “Events” for days and times. In the meantime, you can download “Olive Oil: From the Kitchen to the Spa” by owner Saundra Winokur, Ph.D. 80

URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

Rich with history and those luscious Stonewall peaches, this true mom-and-pop store was founded by owner Danny Hallford’s mom and pop, E.W. and Rubye Hallford. It’s the perfect spot for chef Leslie Washburne’s July-August cooking class demos. Sales manager Melanie Nesbit, says, “Leslie has a strong vegan and vegetarian background, and works with people moving toward a healthier diet.” But what about peachy desserts?

“Of course!” says Nesbit. Check them out on Facebook. urbanhomemagazine.com

Push Pull Open Close

WE BRING THE SHOWROOM TO YOU. To set an appointment call 512.694.7762 or jdhiebert@pushpullopenclose.com.

A DV E RT I S E R I N D E X

ASSOCIATIONS

Austin NARI www.austinnari.org 512.997.NARI

NARI San Antonio www.remodelsanantonio.org 210.348.6274

GATED LAKESIDE COMMUNITY

The Reserve At Lake Travis 800.214.3142 www.reserveatlaketravis.com

GLASS & WINDOWS

KIVA Kitchen & Bath www.kivahome.com Austin: 512.454.4526 / 800.856.4488 San Antonio: 210.826.9652 / 800.846.9652

OUTDOOR LIVING

CARPET & FLOORING

Anchor Ventana www.ventanaman.com 512.388.9400

Big Grass www.biggrassliving.com 210.735.7999

CONCRETE & STONE

BMC Window Center www.buildwithbmc.com Austin: 512.977.7440 San Antonio: 210.494.8889

Cozy Outdoor Escapes www.cozyoutdoorescapes.com 210.276.0734

Schroeder Carpet www.schroedercarpet.com 512.462.1551

Belgard Hardscapes www.belgard.com Austin: 512.462.3363 San Antonio: 830.980.7697 QDI Stone www.qdistone.com 512.832.0500

CUSTOM CABINETRY & DESIGN Swanx www.swanxcabinetry.com 512.809.6226

CUSTOM METAL WORK

Christopher Voss Inc. Fourth Generation Iron Craftsman www.christophervoss.com 210.843.4332

FURNITURE & DESIGN

Catrina’s Ranch Interiors www.catrinasranchinteriors.com 830.755.6355 / 210.535.3070 Copenhagen Contemporary Furniture & Accessories www.copenhagenliving.com San Antonio: 210.545.4366 Austin: 512.451.1233 Hopkins Boulevard Imports www.hopkinsblvdimports.com 210.375.3138 Scott + Cooner www.scottcooner.com Austin: 512.480.0436 Dallas: 214.748.9838

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URBAN HOME AUSTIN – SAN ANTONIO

HARDWARE

TimberTown Austin www.timbertownaustin.com 512.528.8112

HOME BUILDERS

Artesian Pools www.artesianpoolstx.com 210.251.3211

Push Pull Open Close www.pushpullopenclose.com 512.694.7762 Diamante Custom Homes www.diamantehomes.com 210.341.6430 Foursquare Builders www.foursquarebuilders.com 512.944.4520 Gossett Jones Homes www.gjhlife.com 830.500.2288

HOME REMODELING

CG&S Design-Build www.cgsdb.com 512.444.1580

Realty Restoration www.realtyrestoration.com 512.454.1661 David Wilkes Builders www.davidwilkesbuilders.com 512.328.9888

INTERIOR DESIGN

Bella Villa Design www.bellavillads.com 512.443.3200

KITCHEN & BATH

Factory Builder Stores www.factorybuilderstores.com Austin: 512.834.1442 San Antonio: 210.349.9333

POOLS

Designer Pools & Outdoor Living www.designerpoolstx.com 512.561.4211

REAL ESTATE

Austin Board of Realtors www.austinhomesearch.com

Phyllis Browning Company www.phyllisbrowning.com 210.824.7878 San Antonio Board of Realtors www.sabor.com

WINDOW COVERINGS & AWNINGS

Austintatious Blinds and Shutters www.austintatiousblinds.com 512.608.0302 Texas Sun & Shade

www.txsunandshade.com 512.402.0990 The Louver Shop

www.louvershop.com Austin: 512.236.9706 San Antonio: 210.590.3956

urbanhomemagazine.com

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