A RECOGNIZED INDUSTRY LEADER
“ The Brooks” Awards:
PROUD BUILDER AT THE
BOULEVARD OF DREAMS HOMES TOUR.
Thanks to everyone that attended and made it a success.
CUSTOM HOME BUILDER FOR GENERATIONS
• 2 KCH&G Best Model Home of the Year
• 3 Innovative Design Awards: Best Kitchen,
Best Master Suite, Best Outdoor Living
• 2 American Dream Grand Awards
• 2 Distinctive Plan & Design Grand Awards
THE BUILDER - WILLIS CONSTRUCTION
Family owned and operated, Willis Construction has been
in business for 45 years. See Bob and Patrick’s beautiful
homes in Mills Farm or, for a maintenance-free lifestyle,
their award-winning White Horse Villa subdivision at 150th
Terrace and Nall in Leawood. You will also see Willis
Custom Homes throughout the metropolitan area including
Waters Edge, Loch Lloyd and Tuscany, just to name a few.
They work with some of the top design professionals in the
industry to offer a variety of styles.
Over the years, Willis Construction has been recognized as
a leader in Kansas City’s housing market. They stress quality
of construction, design and materials. This commitment
to quality has made them
successful even during
difficult times.
Bob and Patrick are also
dedicated to building homes
tailored for clients with special
needs. Those include universal
design features, elevators, lifts,
zero-step entries, etc. They find
a great deal of satisfaction in
building a beautiful home
designed to support the unique lifestyles of many buyers.
Bob Willis Patrick Willis
913.685.8300 www.WillisCustomHomes.com
 P R O J E C T
Check out
more pictures
and special
offers here!

O F
T H E
M O N T H
 E E S
O N H EER
Y T T
ER RED UN .
EV L E E .
TO TOU E VO SIBL AV N
D
KS ND TH PO WE
S H
E
FU
AN A F R V
E O O
TH AM ALL TOU AND E L M
C E S TH AR
O TO TH C ES F F
H D E C O S
W LL
AN AD E SU REN I
ES M
~M
O UG ILD
OM H H H
H W SA C
A E
W TH
IT PED
EL
H
L
AL
 Publisher
R E N E E DE MOTT

Editor-in-Chief
AN DREA DARR

Managing Editor
B ROOK E PEAR L

Contributing Writers
G LORIA GALE
KATY RYAN
KI M BE R LY WI NTE R STE R N
VE RON ICA TON EY

Editorial Interns
E LLIE LONG
TAYLOR LEWI S

Photographers
C HAD JAC KSON
MATT KOCOU R E K
JAM E S MAIDHOF
GARY ROH MAN
ALI STAI R TUTTON

Art Director
DAR I N BE N SON

Associate Art Director

CAROL CAN N I NG

Senior Account Executives

LISA BOWMAN
CAN DY COPPAKE N
LAURE POTTE R
MAR LA WE STR U P

Lake Ozarks Account Executive

H E R MAN PAG E

Grand Lake Account Executive

MARTY FOLLI S

Special Projects
LOR I C H R I STI E

Administrative Coordinator
BR E N DA M ITC H E LL

H O M E D E S I G N D I V I S I O N

President: ADAM JAPKO

Senior Vice President, Operations: STUART C HR I STIAN
Vice President Manufacturing: DAN NY BOWMAN
Operations Production Director,
Magazine Group & Electronic Prepress: C H E RYL JOC K
Production Manager: AN DR EA FITZ PATR IC K
Circulation Manager: K U RT COEY

P R O U D M E M B E R S O F T H E F O L L OW I N G . . .

HOME BUILDERS
AIA
The American Institute
ASSOCIATION of Architects
OF GREATER KANSAS CITY

President and CFO: G E R RY PAR KER

General Counsel: SU SAN DE E SE

10 • KCHANDG.COM
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Kansas City Homes
& Gardens wants to hear from our readers!
Good or bad, it is important to know where we
stand with you. Please keep your correspondence
to us short and to the point, attn.: Andrea Darr,
Editor-in-Chief.

ADVERTISING INFORMATION: Would you like

to learn more about advertising in Kansas City
Homes & Gardens? Call Lisa Bowman, Candy
Coppaken, Laure Potter or Marla Westrup at
913.648.5757. They’ll be happy to show you the
many benefits of advertising in our highly
targeted, supreme-quality print publication.

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: Interested in

becoming a regular reader of Kansas City Homes
& Gardens? We’d love to have you! Subscriptions
are available at the rate of $19.95 per year for 9
issues. Single-copy price is $4.95, available at
more than 400 selected newsstand locations
throughout Greater Kansas City.
Call toll free 888.350.0960
or subscribe online at kchandg.com

MANUSCRIPTS AND SUBMISSIONS:

Designers, architects, photographers and writers
are invited to submit materials and/or ideas for
consideration. Include photos and a brief description
of the project. Please, no phone calls. The
magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited
manuscripts. KCH&G has unrestricted editing
We strive for excellence in all that we do.
rights. Send attn.: Andrea Darr, Editor-in-Chief.

Kansas City Homes & Gardens is published

and printed 8 times a year plus 1 specialty
publication by Network Communications Inc.
Volume 25, Number 6. Renee Demott, publisher,
4121 W. 83rd St., Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS
66208, 913.648.5757. ©2011 by Network
Communications Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
Postmaster: Send changes to Kansas City
Homes & Gardens, P. O. Box 9002, Maple Shade,
NJ 08052.

HOW TO REACH US
For advertising and subscription information: Granite Marble Limestone Travertine Onyx Sandstone Slate Quartite
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Member
By Fax: 913.648.5783
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Ste. 110, Prairie Village, KS 66208 C H I C A G O, C O L U M B U S, O H I O, D A L L A S, K A N S A S C I T Y A N D S T. L O U I S

OCTOBER 2011 • 11
 ★
Classic Craftsmanship, Quality and Integrity

★
Discover
Visit our website and try
our Dream Home Calculator

the Forner — LaVoy

to price your
dream home!

Difference…
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913.385.3817
www.fornerlavoy.com

C U S TO M H O M E S • R E N O VAT I O N S / A D D I T I O N S • T E A R D O W N S

12 • KCHANDG.COM
Kansas City Millwork Company serves the metropolitan area with over 75 years combined Marvin Windows and Door experience.
Visit our showroom for a “hands-on”experience with one of our Marvin experts.

KANSAS CITY MILLWORK CO.

1120 W. 149th Street Olathe, KS 66061
●

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● ●
 October 2011
17 EDITOR’S LETTER
Turning the Soil __ At season’s end,
we forget the losses, remember the successes
and cherish the moments.
19 Q&A
A question-and-answer session with
local industry professionals.
HOME
23 THE GOODS
What We’re Fall-ing For __ There’s a snap
in the air as we welcome fall, the perfect
time to get inspired. Hats off (or on) to
these kitchen gadgets.
27 SMART HOUSE
Appliance Today __ They’re not just
about keeping your food cold or your
clothes clean, they’re about mix-and-match
styles and innovation.
33 DESIGN TRENDS
Simply Floored __ The top trends in flooring
from this year’s SURFACES industry expo.
38 MODERN FAMILY
With a third child on the way and a no-frills
design aesthetic, one Lake Winnebago couple
redefines a 1970s kitchen.
PHOTO BY MROBINSONPHOTO.COM
contents
Volume 25, Issue No.6
40 LATEST & GREATEST
FOR THE KITCHEN SPECIAL SECTION
The kitchen’s style is ever-changing, and who 77 ALL IN THE FAMILY
wouldn’t want an update when you can The publishers of Kansas City Homes &
incorporate accessories like these? Gardens present an exclusive portfolio of
family-owned businesses, the bedrock of
46 SPA ELEGANCE our local community.
A refreshing retreat combines a soft palette
with exuberant details.
LIFESTYLE
48 LATEST & GREATEST 92 COMFORT FOOD WITH
FOR THE BATHROOM A FRENCH FLAIR
From modern to traditional, the bathroom Chaz on the Plaza Executive Chef
has become a place homeowners never Charles d’Ablaing takes a seemingly normal
want to leave, especially when it houses menu and turns it into something spectacular.
these new products.
97 COOK’S CALENDAR
54 SAVING GRACE Save a date for your personal culinary
Instead of being turned into a pile of rubble, education.
this Shawnee home, mostly destroyed by a
fire, was elegantly brought back to life. 98 DEVILISHLY FUN
Attuned to the nuances of texture
60 GARDENS OF THE YEAR and taste, four hometown architects
Our first annual outdoor competition. of confection graciously craft their
most decadent creations.
71 LATEST & GREATEST
FOR THE OUTDOORS 104 MARKETPLACE
Time to move the party outside, especially A reference guide to help you find
when your outdoor living space wows our advertisers.
with products like these.
ABOUT THE COVER ...
From well-manicured lawns and gardens
to putting greens, pools and pergolas,
you’ll see all this and more from our
Gardens of the Year winners.
C ISTOCKPHOTO/NARCISA
OCTOBER 2011 • 15
 MAAX
®

C O L L E C T I O N

Let us assist you in creating

the bathroom you have been dreaming of.

913.387.4900
11009 Strang Line Road ●
Lenexa, KS 66215
Located in the College Crossing Business Park
www.kbbriggs.com

AN DREA DARR
Editor-in-Chief
adarr@nci.com
Facebook:
facebook.com/Andrea.Darr
Twitter:
twitter.com/KCHGmag
LinkedIn:
Andrea Darr
Turning the Soil (and the Page)
At season’s end, we forget the losses, remember the successes and cherish the moments.
F
Fall is my favorite time of year to spend outside. I love
the cozy feel of pulling on a wooly sweater or wrapping
up in a fleece blanket while taking a hayride, sitting by
a fire and watching the leaves perform their miraculous
annual transformation. And I do it all with an appreciation
that knows the end is near, enjoying the last lingering
cool breezes and warmth of the sun before all is bare
and white.
There are few places I’d rather be than outdoors. My
love of the earth is relatively new but deep. I used to
rush home after work and practically jump out of my
business attire for something that invariably had holes,
paint stains or grass stains to do work of an entirely
different type. There was more to do than could be
done, however, among the chickens, bees, orchard
and garden, but I didn’t mind just being one with
nature. It rooted me in reality when the world got
chaotic. Michael and I often commented that the
farm was our grocery store, gym, tanning salon and
psychotherapist all wrapped into one. Yes, the farm was
our baby until we actually had a baby. Then my time
with the outdoors dwindled dramatically.
People often ask me how our farm is doing these
days. I just laugh with a shrug and count the potatoes,
editor’s letter
beets, carrots and asparagus we did bring to the table.
Oh, and I suppose you could include the three tomatoes
and handful of peppers, too. Sadly, we lost most of our
crops to the weeds. Oh well, the thing about winter is
that it wipes the slate clean and you get another chance
the following year.
What we have been successful with is our daughter,
who has been growing like a weed. Now six months
old, she’s into everything and everything is into her
mouth. She, too, loves the outdoors: walks, stroller
rides, swinging in the hammock. It would please me
immensely if she would continue to take after me in this
respect, preferring to catch frogs, climb trees and run
through the field __ ticks and all __ rather than sit in
front of a screen as so many kids do these days. In a
fast-paced world of technology, I hope she can slow
down and literally smell the roses.
I hope she’ll be inspired by nature’s rainbow palette,
bountiful textures and awesome diversity. I wish
inspiration for you, too. Please turn to page 60 and
breathe in the last vestiges of summer with our first
annual Gardens of the Year competition.
YC
LE THI
S
E RE C
MAGA
AS
ZI
N E. PL E
OCTOBER 2011 • 17
For more information on beautiful Coastal Douglas Fir and Mahogany products from Loewen contact:

Showroom Open to the Public


Q: What is your favorite design element
to include in landscape projects and why?
Photos by Matt Kocourek
Brett Barry, Landscape Renderings
backyardcraftsman.com
A: I’ve really enjoyed building artisan pergolas with finished
roofs to our outdoor living areas. The covered pergola gives
much more seasonal use to an outdoor living space. In the
summer, the complete shade can be 20 degrees cooler than
in the sun. A fresh day, albeit rainy, can be enjoyed thoroughly.
Most of my clients furnish these areas with comfy outdoor
furniture. When constructed well, the space feels like an extension
of the home.
Matt Alberts, LandArt
landartkc.com
A: It’s not really about one element, but the concept of delivering
and exceeding an expectation, that’s my favorite element. But
if I had to pick just one, it would have to be water — any water
that would add movement, such as a bubbler rock, fountain or
full-on waterfalls. Pools work well, too. Water brings the exterior
elements to life.
Q&A
Maverick Pickering, Maverick Landscaping
mavericklandscaping.com
A: My favorite design element is fire. It can be as simple as
adding a gas grill or fire pit, but my favorite is a wood-burning
fireplace, which adds an architectural and entertaining focal
point to the project. A masonry wood-burning fireplace opens up
a whole new aspect to entertaining outdoors. Using different
techniques, you can grill, roast, braise, rotisserie and toast almost
anything, and the fireplace adds a primal, great-smelling,
warm fire.
Joann Schwarberg, Landscape Architect
joann@schwarberg.com
A: To create enveloping and comfortable spaces, I tend to use
the vertical dimension in a strong way. I might use the height
of an arbor or the overhang of mid-size trees, or perhaps the
subtle rise of a low seating wall or a few gracious steps down to
a secondary terrace. Creative use of grade changes can draw
you into a space and make you feel surrounded and content.
They are both visually and experientially effective.
OCTOBER 2011 • 19
ONE OF A KIND
 KCHG
&
HOME

Laid-Back Style
Whether you want something that looks and feels comforting __ like
a spa-like master bath __ or something technological __ such as an
appliance that knows how to cook better than you do __ we’ve got it
covered. Turn the page to find our editors’ picks of the latest and
greatest new products and inspiring spaces.
PHOTO BY CHAD JACKSON
 KCHG
WHAT WE’RE &
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

the goods

FALL-ING FOR
There’s a snap in the air as we
welcome fall, the perfect time to
get inspired. Hats off (or on) to
these kitchen gadgets that make
life easier and more delicious.

2
1
1. Pinched Voila! This simple silicone pot clip from Norpro prevents the spoon from slipping into the
sauce. This is one of those “Why didn’t I think of that?” clever little kitchen helpers. Kansas City
Culinary Center, 7920 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, Kan. $6.95. kcculinary.com 2. Pucker Up
Start with one, but try them all: 45 delectable fresh-pressed olive oils (mushroom and sage) and
mind-boggling balsamic vinegars (chocolate, Persian lime and blood orange). Wait, there’s more: spice
blends, sea salts, flavored pastas, gourmet olives and sauces. Total yum. The Tasteful Olive, 7945
Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, Kan. thetastefulolive.com 3. Sunny Side Up You want to poach that
egg but have no idea how? Here’s the best flexible silicone egg poacher in the shape of a cracked egg
you’ll ever need. Just float and poach, eggs slide right out. It’s heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe. $6.
amazon.com 4. Stack ‘Em Up Drag out an Indian Summer with the taste of fruit-flavored water in
Padma Lakshmi’s Perfect Pitcher Flavor Infuser. Add cucumbers, lemons or watermelon — or whatever
you want! — to the infuser tube for a fresh taste that lingers past summer’s due date. Available Oct. 1.
$29.95. HSN/HSN.com 5. Tiny Bubbles Fizzy is fun. Sodastream turns ordinary tap water into
sparkling water in less than 30 seconds. Add a slew of flavors for taste. Choose a style to suit your
decor; fits easily on any counter. Each C02 cartridge makes up to 60 liters — no more cans to recycle!
Bed Bath & Beyond. $99-$179. bedbathandbeyond.com PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

3 5

OCTOBER 2011 • 23
 HOME the goods

Corked This 4-inch bottle stopper called
“Chugger the Bugger” will come in handy
for yourself or as a delightfully quirky gift.
Handcrafted from recycled metal by
Utah artist Fred Conlon, it’s definitely
a conversation-starter. $52.
316 W. 63rd St., Kansas City, Mo.
pursuegoodstuff.com
Hand-y Dandy! Leave it to Fiskars to Bam! Emeril Strikes Again It’s apple-
design a versatile tool that looks and acts picking season, and that means pie-baking
like a pair of scissors but does so much day is soon to follow. Make minis and hand
more. The Cuts + More scissors features them out to neighbors with Emerilware’s
high-quality slicing for home, office Multi-Pie Maker. $49.90. HSN/HSN.com
Stuff, and garden. Forget rummaging through
drawers — these scissors cut wire, tape,
cloth, cardboard, twine and light rope.
There’s even a bottle opener on the side.
$20. fiskers.com

DIMENSIONAL

toneworks L.L.C.
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913.851.9390
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Custom Fabricators
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All Natural Stones

Serving Kansas City’s

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8301 W. 125th St., Suite 110

Fabricator: Dimensional Stonework's
Overland Park, KS
Stone: Geriba Gold
Mon-Fri 8-5 • Sat. 10-2 Designer / Contractor: Schloegel Design Remodel

24 • KCHANDG.COM
Morning, Sunshine! Think you're a When You’re Not Man Enough Manclaw (Not) Waiting to Exhale Lampe Berger is
barista? You can be with Miele’s makes grabbing the 25-pound turkey, a small diffusion system that improves air
top-of-the-line espresso machine. Made gripping that roast, and tossing the quality and cleanses room air through
from the finest components, it’s salad so easy. Heavy-duty food-grade catalytic oxidation. This beautiful work of
guaranteed to withstand 500,000 uses. polymer with very sharp claws: One tool, art with origins in 19th-century Paris
Williams-Sonoma, Country Club Plaza multiple uses! Pryde’s Old Westport, 115 removes up to 67 percent of airborne
and Town Center Plaza. $1,999. Westport Road, Kansas City, Mo. $10.95. bacteria within 1,000 square feet in less
williams-sonoma.com prydeskitchen.com than an hour — excellent for allergies
and asthma. S-Scents, Hawthorne Plaza,
119th and Roe. s-scents.com

913.681.6629
www.csttile.com

Importers &
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Serving Kansas City

for Over 20 years

8301 W. 125th St., Suite 110

Factory: Unicom Starker
Overland Park, KS
Series: Natural Series
Color: Multicolor Slate Mon-Fri 8-5 • Sat. 10-2

OCTOBER 2011 • 25
 MARVIN
®

Windows and Doors

Built around you.

®
 Story by Veronica Toney Photos courtesy of Deatherage Home Designs

smart house
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART

| Now that appliance manufacturers have mastered technology, they’re focusing on style, like with this hood that also functions as a piece of art. |

Appliances Today
They’re not just about keeping your food cold or your clothes clean, they’re about mix-and-
match styles and innovation, plus they’re faster, smarter and in nearly every room in the house.

A
As homeowners stay in their homes longer, they’re
making their spaces more about them and less about
resale. Nowhere is this more evident than in the rise
of home-improvement projects that focus on making
daily routines easier. Appliances are at the center of
this trend.
As food television continues to gain popularity, so
do professional-grade kitchen appliances. Lloyd
Doolittle, sales and marketing manager for Doolittle
Distributing Inc. explains, that people want restaurant-
quality performance. “When homeowners buy a 48-
inch range, they can decide if they want eight burners,
six burners and a griddle, and/or what size they want
for each burner,” he says.
In addition to modular ranges, modular refrigeration
is gaining popularity. “More clients are asking for
custom products,” says Jennifer Ebert, a luxury
appliance specialist for the Kitchen Design Studio at
Nebraska Furniture Mart. “Most manufacturers
currently allow built-in refrigerators and freezers to
be separate, but now they’re offering full lines that
are able to be mixed and matched.”
Not only will refrigeration fit into any space, now
it can look like it belongs. One brand that has taken
refrigeration looks a step farther is Sub-Zero.
“Coming in 2012, Sub-Zero will release a new
internal ice and water dispenser,” says Alysha Archer,
corporate marketing coordinator for Roth Distributing.
“It provides chilled water and ice without a visible
dispenser on the door. Homeowners and designers
have been asking for this for years.”
As homeowners have more say in their appliance
features, the custom features they’re choosing have a
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 27

Deep Roots Don’t Grow Overnight
Kansas City’s Lumber Yard For 130 Years
the mark of responsible forestry.
Please visit our website/blog/facebook page for our monthly specials and project ideas.
Twitter.com/SchutteLumberCo
28 • KCHANDG.COM
3001 Southwest Boulevard
Kansas City, MO 64108
816.753.6262
Facebook.com/SchutteLumberCompany
HOME appliances
lot to do with improving convenience and
cutting time. One feature homeowners are
requesting more is induction cooking.
“Induction cooktops are much more
energy-efficient than gas or traditional
electric cooktops,” Ebert says. “Plus, they
have the clean-ability of electric with the
precision temperature and reaction time
of gas.” Another feature that speeds up
cooking time is steam.
“Steam offers faster cooking times and
healthier cooking capabilities,” says Jim
Heeren, account manager for Factory
Direct Appliance. A few manufacturers are
starting to include this function in their
lines of cooktops, ranges, ovens and
dishwashers. This trend is also popular in
laundry rooms and master suites.
According to Heeren, laundry is the
biggest category in the appliance industry.
More and more homes are installing units
in bedroom closets, bathrooms and
upstairs hallways. This means smaller
machines that are more accessible and
have more functions, such as speed clean
and steam cycles.
It’s not just laundry that’s making its
way upstairs. “Beverage centers, mini-
refrigerators and espresso makers are
being incorporated into the master closet,”
Ebert says.
The bathroom also is getting a boost.
“The Wolf warming drawer is not just for
the kitchen, we are seeing homeowners
use them in their bathrooms to keep towels
warm,” Archer says.
While functionality and convenience
are important, sometimes it’s about the
“oohs” and “ahhs.” A few appliances are
blending performance with good looks. “A
lot of customers are adding color in the
kitchen with appliances,” Ebert says. Two
manufacturers, Viking and Bertazzoni,
offer ranges, cooktops, ovens, dishwashers
and more in a variety of colors. “Someone
might have stainless steel everywhere and
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
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HOME appliances

PHOTO COURTESY OF DOOLITTLE DISTRIBUTING

| The cold gray of all stainless steel makes way for color. |

then decide to add an eggplant range to

give the kitchen a little pop.”
“One of the most unexpected trends
coming up is the revival of black glass as
an appliance finish in the kitchen,” Archer
adds. “Wolf will launch its new sleek
black glass single and double ovens in
early 2012.”
Ventilation hoods also are adding flair
to the kitchen. “Hoods are becoming more Celebrating 65 Years
of an art piece that works as an appliance,”
Innovative Designs. Enduring Quality. Superior Service.
Ebert says. She’s seen everything from
hoods that look like pendant lights to units
that look like chandeliers.
Other appliances that are adding
wow-factor to the kitchen are specialty
appliances, such as the Scotsman nugget
ice machine. These ice machines can make
up to 70 pounds of small ice a day similar
to the ice in drinks at Sonic: America’s
Drive-In. “We haven’t been able to keep
them in stock,” Doolittle says.
But the area that’s getting the most
attention from appliance manufacturers is
the great outdoors. Manufacturers are
making appliances that can withstand the
elements, and homeowners are seeing
their backyard as a way to expand the
boundaries of the home. “All appliances in
the kitchen have been adapted for outdoor
use,” says Rod Holsapple, president of
Factory Direct Appliance.
When it comes to appliance trends, it’s
all about the homeowner __ how they live
in their homes and, more important, how
they want to live in their homes.
OCTOBER 2011 • 31
 Sophisticated Stone LLC
Turn Key Installation from Removal of Tops to Sinks, Plumbing & Tile Backsplashes
913.481.2822 ● www.sophisticatedstone.com

“ t a k e n o t h i n g f o r g r a n i t e ”
 Story by Katy Ryan Photos courtesy of Thibaut

design trends
PHOTO COURTESY OF REAL CORK FLOORS
PHOTO COURTESY OF BEAULIEU CARPET OF AMERICA

PHOTO COURTESY OF DALTILE

| Left: Beaulieu Carpet of America's Magic Fresh line features a built-in odor-reducing carpet treatment that helps combat odors caused by pets, smoking and cooking.
Top right: Available in a variety of colors and patterns, cork flooring is a versatile material that works in virtually any room. Bottom right: DalTile created Spark,
a porcelain tile, to meet a growing demand for a more modern aesthetic. Spark mimics the look and texture of linen and includes a subtle shimmer. |

Simply Floored
The top trends in flooring from this year’s SURFACES industry expo reflect
a desire for sustainability, technology and luxury.

F
Flooring: it’s a vital element of any home, both for Cork: Superior Material
decorative and functional purposes. Buying new As a result of an ever-increasing emphasis on
flooring is nothing short of an investment — in fact, environmentally friendly products, cork is quickly
according to industry experts, it can be the second- becoming the go-to green choice when it comes to
most expensive purchase made aside from the cost flooring. Not only is cork durable and long-lasting, it
of your home. also has a natural give that makes it a slightly softer
Flooring is typically purchased every eight to 10 surface than a hardwood or tile, an ideal choice for a
years, so the market may have transformed since you hard-working, high-traffic area like the kitchen.
last shopped for materials and coverings. Need a The completely renewable material is 100-percent
quick primer? Consider these emerging trends, as recyclable and natural. Cork is harvested from
highlighted at this year’s SURFACES industry trade several areas, but Portugal is the world’s leading
show in Las Vegas. producer of the material.
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 33
 “ F e a t h e r Y o u r N e s t ”
HOME flooring

Thanks to cork’s versatile nature, it can

work in any room in the house. Heating
and other processes cause the cork to
change color and patterns, making it a
decorative option for aesthetes who crave
style and functionality.
Cork packs such a punch, in fact, that
industry experts have no problem declaring
it a superior material.
“No other floor covering can match the
combined benefits of cork,” says Piet
Dossche, chairman of APCOR North
America Flooring Group and president
and CEO of USFloors Inc.

Carpet’s Double Duty

11272 S. RIDGEVIEW
JUST SOUTH OF C O L L E G E B L V D . ( 1 1 1 T H S T. )
T UES ., W ED ., F RI ., S AT. 10-5 ● T HURS . 10-7
Unique “ Featherings” for your Home and Garden
Personable, Professional, Positively Beautiful
● O L AT H E , K S
ON RIDGEVIEW Carpet still comprises the vast majority of
flooring sales, claiming nearly 60 percent
of the industry share.
● C LOSED S UN . & M ON .
But today’s carpet? “It’s not the
same as the carpet of yesterday,” says
Patricia Flavin, senior vice president of
marketing for Beaulieu of America.
The company’s Magic Fresh line
includes built-in Magic Fresh odor-
reducing carpet treatment. “It’s completely
safe and natural and lasts for the life of the
FULL DESIGN carpet,” and is engineered to help combat
S E RV I C E S :
odors caused by four-legged friends, as
re mo de l i ng
well as cooking and smoking.
spa c e pl a nni ng
c ol or c onsul ta ti on Because carpet should be comfortable
wi ndow tre a tme nt and welcoming, Beaulieu developed the
a re a rug s Bliss HealthyTouch collection, the “softest,
f urni ture
freshest, cleanest carpet in the world,”
l a mps
a rt Flavin says. Each of the 20 styles in the
c ustom f l ora l de si g n HealthyTouch line is made with Beaulieu
SoftSense, a polyester filament fiber that
creates an incredibly soft carpet. Plus,
HealthyTouch carpet includes built-in
Magic Fresh technology, as well as the
company’s Silver Release antimicrobial
15258 W 119th Street treatment.
Olathe, KS 66062

(913) 829-3365 Design-Inspired Tile

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 10-6
Thurs 10-7 • Sat 10-5 • Closed Sunday
pictureperfectinteriors.net
As flooring evolves, new products are
being created that not only replicate more
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

34 • KCHANDG.COM
 PAULA M. LEIGH
3848 WEST 75TH STREET • PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS • TEL: 913.384.0330 • www.delawareinteriors.com

Two Generations of Excellence

HBI
Holthaus Building Inc.
913.814.0475
www.holthausbuilding.com
Custom Homes – Remodels – Room Additions – Lower Level Finishes
OCTOBER 2011 • 35
 Let us bring out the
beauty in your project!
ONIX, MARBLE
& GRANITE

CUSTOM DESIGN
AND PRODUCTION OF:

9600 Dice Lane, Lenexa KS 66215 Showroom Hours:

• Onix Lamp Pedestals
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• Mantels, Island, Fireplace
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Tile, Inc
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816.918.4807
36 • KCHANDG.COM
HOME flooring

expensive materials, but also showcase

inspiration from non-flooring materials
like fabric.
Daltile unveiled several new products at
SURFACES, including Spark, a porcelain
tile that mimics the look and texture of
linen. Spark adds a hint of shimmer and is
available in several different colors.
Another new Daltile product, Palatina,
is a glazed porcelain tile that replicates
the look of travertine. Palatina is currently
available in a warm color palette that
features subtle color variations between
tiles. And if you can’t get enough of
hardwood floors yet prefer the price point
and maintenance of tile, Daltile unveiled
its Terrace line, a porcelain tile that mimics
hardwoods, down to the tight grout-joint
and details like wood grain and knots that
add authenticity.

What’s Next?
Industry experts and flooring manufacturers
are already looking ahead to identify
trends that will shape product lines — and
consumer expectations — in the future.
Annette M. Callari, Allied ASID, Chair
Holder CMG, recently analyzed upcoming
flooring trends for the World Floor
Covering Alliance. Her top pick? High
recycled-content products.
Callari also predicts that flooring
manufacturers will continue to produce
high-quality flooring that may carry a
steeper price tag yet also deliver a lifetime
of use and a timeless appeal that can
seamlessly blend with myriad styles and
transition with homeowners through the
decades.
Also expect to see an ongoing influx
of new products and materials. Floor
Covering News recently highlighted an
increase in the use of domestic exotics to
create wood flooring, including hickory, as
compared to the traditional heavyweights
of the domestic hardwood market, most
notably oak, maple and pine.
OCTOBER 2011 • 37
 KCHG
&
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

With a third child on the way and a no-frills

design aesthetic, one Lake Winnebago
couple redefines a 1970s kitchen. Story by
TAY L O R L E W I S
Photos by

L
auri and Richard Henry were ready to give up the charm and conveniences of their JAMES MAIDHOF

Brookside neighborhood for a lake lifestyle at Lake Winnebago, but they weren’t
willing to settle down in the 1970s home they bought as it was. The dark,
segmented spaces didn’t fit their open, modern style, and with two young kids and
another on the way, it wasn’t functional enough.
The couple enlisted Greg Rothers of Rothers Design Build to help them reorganize
the entire main level, including the entry, half bath, living room, kitchen and back hall.
The kitchen __ especially for a family who likes to cook __ was cramped by a pantry,
desk and eat-in area, and a lone door buried in the corner was the only entrance to the sun
porch overlooking the lake. Only two small windows allowed any light into the room.

38 • KCHANDG.COM
 After completely gutting the first floor and raising the kitchen ceiling, the
couple opted to replace the few, small existing windows with a slew of new
ones to help brighten the space and take advantage of the vast lake views the
kitchen has to offer. “Greg gave us good advice: he told us not to work around
the windows because you can always change them, take them away or add to
them,” Lauri says.
Rothers designed and constructed custom cabinetry to house specifically
requested items, such as a lazy Susan strong enough to support Lauri’s stand
mixer, a knife drawer and two pull-out spice racks. Lauri also requested different
heights among the elements, thus Rothers stacked two ovens by themselves at
the end of open counter space for variation.
The low-sitting island, where the family eats most meals, boasts a gleaming
Madreperola quartz countertop that matches the other surfaces and backsplash.
It has an additional prep sink and accommodates seven backless barstools that
conveniently slide underneath. Best of all, there is adequate space in between
the barstools and stove, ensuring plenty of room to move.
Tucked behind the island and underneath the gas range is a microwave placed
at a level ideal for youngsters. Why? “We decided to put the microwave low
because it is usually the first appliance that kids learn,” Lauri says. “Plus, it’s
not the prettiest appliance.”
A mudroom located off the kitchen replaces what was once a laundry
room and is tailored to fit the family’s lifestyle. Custom-made lockers offer
five floor-to-ceiling storage slots complete with drawers for shoes and
personal belongings, plus hooks for coats, bags and umbrellas. An oversized
bench provides extra storage space, and a filing area gives the family a place
to keep paperwork and small items.
Within a four-month period, practical additions and visually pleasing
transformations gave this outdated and once-dingy kitchen a chic and
modern vibe.

Contractor/Cabinetry: Rothers Design Build

Flooring: Tile & Stone Warehouse
Countertops/Backsplash: Midland Marble & Granite
Appliances: Factory Direct Appliance

OCTOBER 2011 • 39
LATEST & GREATEST
FOR THE

KITCHEN The kitchen’s style is ever-changing, and who wouldn’t want an update
when you can incorporate accessories like these?
By Taylor Lewis and Ellie Long

FOR THE FRIDAY NIGHT SOIREE

Party hosts everywhere are breathing a collective sigh of relief. Why?
Because Lenova has solved the age-old problem of a houseful of
guests but only a foot of counter space. The multifunctional
Entertainer Sink is a wine cooler, condiment holder and clean-up
drain. Still need more room? Pop the lid on to turn it into a cutting
board or more prep space. Available through Pyramid Pipe & Supply
and The Fixture Gallery. lenovasinks.com

NOT YOUR AVERAGE KITCHEN SINK

Bring the Zen-like elements of nature to your own home with Lenova’s
Bamboo Kitchen Sink. This Moso Bamboo Sink is durable and suited for
everyone from restaurant chefs to parents on the go. Even better? For every sink
purchased, Lenova donates $10 to the restoration of panda habitats. Available
through Pyramid Pipe & Supply and The Fixture Gallery. lenovasinks.com

WHAT YOU’VE BEEN MISSIN’

You’ve mastered the drink combinations and finally bought matching
martini glasses. All you need is a workspace. Native Trails Copper Luna
Prep Sink is the perfect addition for anyone looking to update and
sophisticate their wet bar. Available through Kitchens & Baths by
Briggs, Ferguson Enterprises, Dorfman Plumbing Supply, Grandview
Winnelson and Neenan Company. nativetrails.net

A FLEXIBLE FAUCET
It’s time to break away from your stainless steel rut and invest in some kitchen
color. Kohler’s Karbon Gold Articulating Kitchen Faucet adds a pop of color
to this maneuverable fixture, making it easy on the hands as well as the eyes.
Available through Kitchens & Baths by Briggs and Ferguson Enterprises.
us.kohler.com

40 • KCHANDG.COM
 KCHG
&
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

DURABLE DAINTINESS
Do solid glass countertops sound breakable? ThinkGlass is here to prove
that glass is a durable and ideal kitchen surface. Choose from a variety
of hues and textures to tailor the counter to your home’s decor. Want
some extra lighting? Opt to install backlighting within the countertops
for a muted glow. thinkglass.com

HOME ON THE RANGE

Nothing ruins a kitchen more than an outdated range hood. Bring your stove into the
21st century with Best’s new line of Sorpresa Collection Range Hoods, and leave guests
wondering what that chic decor is hanging in your kitchen. Available through Kitchens
by Kleweno, Kitchen Studio: Kansas City, Kitchen Design Gallery, Ferguson
Enterprises, Factory Direct Appliance and Nebraska Furniture Mart. bestsorpresa.com

FAREWELL, TEAPOT!
When you’re trying to juggle the kids’ after-
school activities with your 9
to 5 job, every second
counts. Why wait for
water to boil when Kohler’s
Piping Hot Hot Water
Dispenser heats it in a
fraction of the time? And
don’t worry, the handle is
clearly marked “hot,” so you
don’t have to worry about the kiddos burning themselves. Available
through Kitchens & Baths by Briggs and Ferguson Enterprises. us.kohler.com

PROGRAMMABLE KITCHEN
The SieMatic Grid will update your kitchen and give it every
kind of electronic detail you could possibly need: Check your
email, the news or weather; upload photos that display in
slide-show form; and access your favorite recipes. The screen
can pull out and rotate for multiple viewing angles. Available
through Kitchen Studio: Kansas City. siematic.com
COOK LIKE A CHEF PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

This warming drawer keeps one dish ready for serving while you wait for your dining partner
to come to the table. It comes with temperature-adjustable features, and a 30-inch pull-down
drawer and bun-warmer make this appliance a convenient aid in the kitchen. Available through
Factory Direct Appliance and Nebraska Furniture Mart. dcsappliances.com
OCTOBER 2011 • 41
 HOME kitchen products
Feel at Home with Bednar Remodeling
See the difference high quality
craftsmanship can make on your
next remodeling project.

S P E C I A L I Z I N G I N :
● Kitchens & Bathrooms ●
● Finish Basement / Media Rooms ●

● Trim Carpentry ●

● Door & Window Replacement ●

● Interior Painting / Wallpapering / Tile ●

● Wood Rot and Termite Repair ●

● Interior Design Consulation ●

AFTER
BEFORE

WINE ALL YOU WANT

This under-counter wine cellar comes in a
wood or stainless steel finish and features
five roll-out racks with a DualZone
1 2 6 1 1 W. 7 6 T H S T .
LENEXA, KS 66216 System. It has a UV-resistant thermal
glass door and LED temperature display
913.962.7733 so you know exactly how chill your
wine is. Available through Factory
Direct Appliance, Ferguson Enterprises,
Nebraska Furniture Mart, Alexander &
Ray’s, and Sears locations. jennair.com

Customer Appreciation Week

Tuesday October 25th through Saturday October 29th

SMART MACHINE
This 30-inch built-in microwave oven
In recognition of our third anniversary under new ownership, please stop by our comes in black glass or stainless steel
Customer Appreciation Week for savings on custom framing, to see new images with a pull-down door for convenience.
from several local artists including a new book & re-released images from Jim Hamil
With a 4.3-inch full-color, menu-driven
and to enjoy refreshments served daily during regular store hours.
LCD display and three-stage memory

A
3645 W. 95th Street programming, it’s likely the most advanced
merica’s in Ranchmart South popcorn-popper you’ve ever had in your

H eartland allery G Overland Park

(913) 341-2661
www.ahgframing.com
kitchen. Available through Factory
Direct Appliance, Ferguson Enterprises,
Nebraska Furniture Mart, Alexander &
E xc e l l e n c e i n Fr a m i n g & C u s t o m e r S a t i s f a c t i o n S i n c e 1 9 7 6 ! Ray’s, and Sears locations. jennair.com
42 • KCHANDG.COM
HOME kitchen products

HANDCRAFTED
QUALITY

CONSISTENTLY CLEAN
You know how tough it is to actually
remove a square from those paper-towel
holders, don’t you? Try this: the Cleancut
Touchless Paper Towel Dispenser. The
automatic dispenser hangs from any flat
surface and comes in black, white and
stainless steel. cleancutdispenser.com

Elevate the design and function of any room with Rutt HandCrafted Cabinetry
— available in the Kansas City area exclusively from Kitchen Studio: Kansas City.

THE NEXT MICRO-WAVE Whether you prefer contemporary lines or classic details, Rutt Cabinetry
can help realize your vision — without compromising quality. Every piece is
This 24-inch microwave from Dacor comes
handcrafted to the highest standards in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and
fully equipped with unique features, such custom made just for you.
as sensor technology that detects vapor
emitted from the food and determines how Call Sue and Katie at 816.221.3111 to transform almost
long it needs to be cooked. It comes
any room in your home with Rutt HandCrafted Cabinetry.
Visit our website to view before and after project photos.
programmed with inputs for breakfast,
lunch, 15-minute recipes, defrosts, from-
the-pantry items and beverages. It even
comes with built-in recipe cards and tells
you what ingredients come next for your
meal. Available through Factory Direct
Appliance, Ferguson Enterprises and
Nebraska Furniture Mart. dacor.com
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
OCTOBER 2011 • 43
 HOME kitchen products

HIP HARDWARE
Elegant. Simple. Sustainable. Surprising.
Is that how you would describe your
kitchen knobs and pulls? Those are the
design principles behind the new hardware
collection from the Frank Lloyd Wright
School of Architecture. reveal-designs.com

For your home. For your life.

Visit www.wood-mode.com

Timeless design, enduring quality, personal service…for your kitchen and home.
Always an affordable luxur y!

7956 LEE BLVD., LEAWOOD, KS. 66206 ●

(913) 385-3636

GO WIDE
“Quality Service You Can Trust” Instead of tall, think horizontal. This
new modular refrigerator comes fully
equipped with temperature controls, has
Assured Waitstaff is celebrating our 18 year anniversary. dual-zone and dual-compatibility units,
Our client loyal patronage and our principles of honesty,
and comes with new full-extension pull-out
quality, and fair prices have allowed us to be successful. We
drawer bins. Customize your U-Line
specializes in temporary placement of qualified professional
Modular 3000 with a beverage center
server, banquet and kitchen staff. Our experience, style,
personal touch, and expert performance will make every for storing wine and drinks. Available
special event a brilliant success. through Portfolio Kitchen & Home,
Kitchens by Kleweno, Kitchen Design
We pride ourselves in working hard and accomplishing any Gallery, Regarding Kitchens, Doolittle
and every task that our clients, have for us as a hospitality Distributing, Ferguson Enterprises,
service provider. We believe in service with a smile and Nebraska Furniture Mart, Factory Direct
nothing less than the best. I am positive that you and your
Appliance, and Alexander & Ray’s.
guest will be extremely pleased with the service we provide...
u-line.com
many already have! I look forward to making your
Event an Event To Remember!

Celia “CeCe” Calandrino

816.453.7300 cell: 816.506.1143
44 • KCHANDG.COM
 8TH ANNUAL HOMES TOUR

Saturday ● November 12, 2011 ● 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday ● November 13, 2011 ● Noon - 4 p.m.
Tour seven stunning homes in the Historic Longview area in Lee’s Summit
decorated by Kansas City’s most beloved designers. On tour for the first time
since the 1980’s is the Longview Mansion decorated for the holiday season
by HGTV “Design Star” Jennifer Bertrand of Bertrand Designs.
Two original estate structures, the Longview Chapel and the award winning
Longview Elementary will also be open for tours.

Tickets: Holiday Boutique

$20 in Advance ● $25 Day of Tour
Visit www.rediscovertheholidays.com
for ticket outlets near you or
to purchase tickets online.
The dining room mantel
was brought to the Longview Mansion
from the Kansas City Museum,
formally Corinthian Hall.
Featuring exquisite wares sold by specialty vendors.
Located in the Longview Mansion Pavilion.
Chef & Designer Demonstrations
Saturday ● November 12 ● 11a.m.- 4 p.m.
Located in the Longview Chapel.
For the list of designers please visit our website.

Visit our website for complete details & tickets ReDiscover the Holidays benefits the children and families served by ReDiscover offering
www.rediscovertheholidays.com them hope, help and healing from substance dependency and mental illness.

BECKY MOSBY 6116 Johnson Drive • Mission, KS 66202 • (913) 403-8136

Owner/Designer Shop Hours 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday thru Friday or by Appointment

OCTOBER 2011 • 45
 Story by Kimberly Winter Stern
Photos by Matt Kocourek

46 • KCHANDG.COM
 KCHG
&
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

A refreshing retreat combines a

soft palette with exuberant details.

W
hen the owners of this Loch Lloyd home
envisioned their ultimate master bath, one
captivating image kept repeating itself: a quiet
and luxurious spa-like atmosphere. “The couple wanted a retreat
to refresh their senses from the moment they stepped into the
room,” says designer Janine Terstriep of The Decorative Touch
Ltd. in Lenexa.
Terstriep and her client conceived a space that beckons
time-out from a busy world.
Essential to the light-drenched masterful room’s ambience of
softer moods and essential de-stressing is an extraordinary attention
to detail. Played against a soothing background of eggshell
blue, the room has an element of Euro-elegance designed with
body and soul in mind — and the romance of the therapeutic
space begins with materials that reflect a graceful convergence of
beauty and function.
The floor is a classic, glossy marble travertine checkerboard
of Crema Marfil and Emperador Light that acts as a lustrous
foundation for a room that effortlessly mixes a modern personality
with Old World refinements. The stunning mosaic tile design of
the staircase leading to the sunken BainUltra spa tub is a luxe
combination of marble, copper and travertine that provides a
slip-resistant surface. The tile accent used on the staircase and
the shower surround is Primavera Rope Truffle, a subtle nod to
the master bath’s European sophistication. Wallpaper in the tub
area has a subtle shimmer that is accentuated by soft candlelight
at night.
The luscious self-lined drapery treatment flanking the entrance
to the tub is another detail planned for perfection; the golden rose-
toned fixtures throughout the room add a layer of warmth. The
homeowners’ affinity for antique pieces is reflected in the master
bath: a monogrammed chair sits at the vanity, a flirty juxtaposition
against the mosaic pattern repeated from the tub staircase design.
A small antique side table set with a lamp topped with a pouf of
a creamy shade adds to the dramatic yet calming room; a fluffy
upholstered round ottoman and a comfy window seat add to the
stylish bath’s overall function of sit, breathe and relax.
Terstriep says the patina of blues, chocolates and cinnamon
accents in the master bath is a calculated departure from the rest of
the home’s earthy palette. “The homeowners wanted this room to
have a charm all its own,” she says. “Stepping into the master bath,
you know you’re in a very special place. It’s a perfect transition
into another world.”

OCTOBER 2011 • 47
LATEST & GREATEST
FOR THE
BATHROOM
From modern to traditional, the bathroom has become a place homeowners
By Taylor Lewis

never want to leave, especially when it houses these new products.

YOU’VE GOT THE POWER

Kohler’s DTV Prompt Digital Shower System lets you change the
water temperature with the touch of a button, pause the stream of
water, or save your settings for the next time you shower. Concerned
about showering too long? Don’t worry; set the built-in timer to
ensure you get to work on time. Available through Kitchens & Baths
by Briggs and Ferguson Enterprises. us.kohler.com

BLUE APPEAL
Gone are the days when a ventilation fan’s sole purpose was to purify
the bathroom air. NuTone’s LunAura Soft-Glo Ambient LED
Ventilation Fan is not only super quiet but its soft blue glow makes it
perfect for late-night bathroom trips when you don’t want to blind
yourself with harsh lighting. Available through
Home Depot and Radio Controlled Garage Door.
nutone.com

SIMPLY STONE
Looking to update your generic bathroom? Lenova’s new
Travertine sink is a sleek addition that can transform any drab space. The
sink is made from a single piece of travertine and features a hidden, removable
drain. Available through Pyramid Pipe & Supply and The Fixture Gallery. lenovasinks.com

ROCK-A-BYE BABY
Kiss your old, uncomfortable
bathtub so long, and treat
yourself to this MTI Savoy
Free-Standing Tub that cradles
you as you relax in your
bubble bath. The tub is a
play on a classic style and
is designed to contour to
FROM CHILDISH TO CHIC
your natural curves. Available
Hastings Tile & Bath’s Sonia Collection will give
through Dorfman Plumbing
sophistication to any space lacking that refined vibe.
Supply. mtiwhirlpools.com
The minimalist collection features chic vanities, simple
storage areas and stylish elements that fit everyone’s
tastes. hastingstilebath.com

48 • KCHANDG.COM
 THE NEW NAPA
KCHG
&
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

Take your love of wine to a whole new level. Native Trails’ Vintner’s Collection converts old
wine barrels into bathroom vanities and mirrors. Choose from Chardonnay, Cabernet or
Bordeaux wood then feel free to brag about your one-of-a-kind bathroom furnishings. Available
through Kitchens & Baths by Briggs, Ferguson Enterprises, Dorfman Plumbing Supply,
Grandview Winnelson and Neenan Company. nativetrails.net

BREATHE AND REBOOT

Close your eyes and heighten your senses with the BainUltra
Vedana System, offering aromatherapy, chromatherapy,
thermotherapy, light therapy and sound therapy. Available
through Ferguson Enterprises, Kitchens & Baths by Briggs,
and Dorfman Plumbing Supply. bainultra.com

YOUNG AT HEART
Does your bathroom need a hint of playfulness? Kohler’s Toobi Faucet
will silence your inner eight-year-old. The faucet comes in a
contemporary shape with a hidden pop of color to help satisfy
your whimsical craving. Available through Kitchens & Baths
by Briggs and Ferguson Enterprises. us.kohler.com

THE LAP OF LUXURY

Full-body submersion is key with the Elliptical
Japanese Bath by Diamond Spas. While the tub is built
in the traditional Japanese style of narrow and deep,
each unit has a bench installed, offering maximum
comfort. diamondspas.com
RELAX AND REJUVENATE
Lie in the lap of luxury with the IMAGE-in Motif
Tubs by Wetstyle. Each of the four bathtubs in the
collection represents something different: Earth,
Water (pictured), Floral and Calligraphy. Pick
which one best suits your tastes then lose yourself
in this dream tub. wetstyle.ca

STAYING IN TOUCH
Don’t miss a beat, whether it’s sports, the news or your favorite
prime-time show, with the Robern M Series TVID Cabinets, which
have a television embedded within the door so you’re there for every
touchdown. Available through Ferguson Enterprises and Dorfman
Plumbing Supply. robern.com PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 49
 HOME bath products

FROM TRASH TO CLASS

There’s nothing better than reducing waste
while saving money in the process.
Travina’s recycled glass countertops
are unique, affordable and durable,
withstanding the wear-and-tear of high-
traffic sinks. Available through MMI.
travinausa.com

W hether adding a full theater

or beautiful outdoor sound system to
your main home or your lake home,
let Elevated Electronics lead you along
the way from design to completion.
From a simple surround sound
system to whole house automation,
Elevated Electronics can help you
reach a smart lifestyle. A smart home BROADWAY IN A BATHROOM
knows what you want while you’re Turn on the spotlight while belting out your
favorite tunes with ThermaSol’s Serenity
there, a smart lifestyle knows what
Light & Music System. The system’s six
you want wherever you are.
LED lights accompany the MP3, CD or
TV hook-up, transforming your steam
Show systems available in Kansas City, shower into anything from a superstar’s
Lake of the Ozarks, and Omaha! stage to a tranquil escape. Available
through Plumber’s Friend, Neenan Co.,

Call to Schedule Your FREE In-Home Consultation Service Supply, Ferguson Enterprises,
Grandview Winnelson, Pyramid Pipe &
913-307-3344 816-291-3300 Supply, Warren Supply Co. and The
Follow us on http://blog.elevatedelectronics.com Fixture Gallery. thermasol.com

50 • KCHANDG.COM
HOME bath products

AN UPDATED STATEMENT
Say goodbye to your conventional vanity
and hello to the modern Nuvo Collection by
The Furniture Guild. Choose a freestanding
or wall-hung vanity in a variety of colors
— red, brown, black or numerous whites
— to customize your outdated bathroom.
vanityflair.net

Jewelry Arts
8221 Corinth Square
TO THE BEAT 913.381.8444
OF YOUR OWN DRUM
fine jewelry certified gemologists
member american gem society
Prairie Village, KS 66208
Modeled after drums of the same name, the
jainc2003@msn.com
Laufen Tam Tam Washbasin boasts a one-
of-a-kind countertop design. The deep
sinks are polished in a gray hue, looking
sleek and extremely sophisticated.
us.laufen.com
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
OCTOBER 2011 • 51

We Engrave Wood, Leather, Marble,
Glass, Stone and even BAMBOO!
Items for Sale
or Bring in
Your Own!
$19 .95
most items
Unlimited Engraving
We a l s o e n g ra v e
Ipods/Ipads, Watches, Rings and more!
Now Engraving Firearms!
www.FirearmEngraving.com
YOU BRING IT IN, WE’LL ENGRAVE IT
52 • KCHANDG.COM
913-642-2451
97th & Metcalf
WINDMILL SHOPPING CENTER
www.QualityCorporateAwards.com
HOME bath products
CRYSTALIZED ELEGANCE
Add some vibrant elegance to your faucet
handles. The Daum Collection by THG
Paris features handcrafted crystal knobs in
a variety of colors and patterns. Choose
the floral design for a classier feel or go
with the Jade Dragon style for something
edgier. thgstyle.com
NOW YOU SEE IT,
NOW YOU DON’T
Some may call ThermaSol’s Aromatherapy
Retractable Steam Head magic. The steam
shower spout lies flush with the wall until
it’s activated. Only then does it silently
protrude, turning your shower into a
steam room. It may not be magic, but it’s
certainly enchanting. Available through
Plumber’s Friend, Neenan Co., Service
Supply, Ferguson Enterprises, Grandview
Winnelson, Pyramid Pipe & Supply,
Warren Supply Co. and The Fixture Gallery.
thermasol.com
 S AV I N G
GRACE
Above... The breakfast nook has the best seats in the house
as well as vantage point on the main floor.

Left... The kitchen is calming and fresh,

with its crisp color palette, glass-front cabinets
and attention-grabbing horizontal glass backsplash.

Right... This open floor plan comfortably fits the kitchen

and living room, with interest created by
altering ceiling heights, Juliet balconies and a zebra rug.
54 • KCHANDG.COM
 KCHG
&
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE
Instead of being turned into a pile of rubble,
this Shawnee home, mostly destroyed by a fire,
was elegantly brought back to life.
STORY BY BROOKE PEARL
A house isn’t a home until it has a family —
and people give their all to protect both.
When the home at 13408 W. 75th Court in Shawnee
became engulfed in flames in May 2010, Shawnee
Fire Station 71 was dispatched to the site, saving little
of the original home and losing one of its men, 33-
year-old John Glaser, a 6-year veteran and father, in
the line of duty. Instead of letting the city tear down
the remaining structure, Grant Hartwig of H&H
Custom Homes bought it and, along with his wife,
Adria, real estate agent and design hobbyist, turned it
into a design star — a project they hope honors the
fallen firefighter.
“I think it’s almost like a tribute to him,” Grant
says. “My heart swells up about this home.”
| PHOTOS BY CHAD JACKSON
Salvaging the foundation, a couple windows and
most of the exterior stucco in the original 1998 Don
Julian home, Grant and Adria brought in Tim Homburg,
architect with NSPJ Architects, to restructure the
entire floor plan, including moving the stairwell.
Concentrating on a fresh yet timeless look, the new
and improved 5,100-square-foot home with five
bedrooms and 4.5 baths features an open floor plan
with a kitchen and great room that share a comfortable
space. “It’s light, bright and airy and inspired by the
Restoration Hardware palette,” Adria notes.
The kitchen features white-glazed cabinets and
island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances,
and horizontal glass tile backsplash that shines in
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
OCTOBER 2011 • 55

The living room, which was the location of the master bedroom
in the original home, is anchored by a floor-to-ceiling
stone fireplace with wood mantel.
56 • KCHANDG.COM
Left... “Playing off the coastal colors
of Aegean blue, white-cap cream
and driftwood gray, I used a variety
of natural fabrics and textures to
create an interesting and inviting
tablescape,” Romano says.
Above... The centerpiece features a
medley of natural orbs and nubby
twigs, Romano adds, displayed in
a trio of delicate glass cylinders.
cream, tan and bluish/gray hues, while complementary
dark hardwood floors cover the main level. “The kitchen is
the heart of what I think represents the classic-but-not-
too-heavy feel that I tried to take through the house,”
Adria says. The floor-to-ceiling (17 feet to be exact)
stacked-stone fireplace anchors the great room, along with
a pocket closet and built-in shelves. The wine room,
centrally located on the main level — and one of the first
things you see when entering the home — features wine
racks and a fridge, enclosed by French wrought iron scroll
doors. And to think it was just a standard pantry in the
original floor plan.
The master bedroom houses a nicely finished man cave,
as Grant calls it, while the woman’s grotto is twice as big,
located off the master bath, which was modeled after the
one in their own home. The home itself radiates serenity,
but it’s the luxurious walls in the dining room and master
bath that are doing all the talking.
“We wanted the dining room to have a kind of coastal,
beachy feel,” says faux painter JoAnn Romano. “We went
out on a textural limb by adding texture to it.” Using two
completely different applications, the master bath bares
tranquility green and uses visual texture, while the dining
room presents a serene, intimate atmosphere with its
Aegean Sea walls and use of metallics. “It’s the new wave
of faux. Going from Tuscan to contemporary, people are
looking to bring in color — freshness and happiness in the
house,” Romano adds.
 Rounding off the main level is a mudroom,
powder bath, home office and laundry nook, all
sited near the three-car garage entry. The
walkout lower level features a home theater,
kitchen with bar, guest bedrooms and plenty of
storage space.
Knowing the history of this home made
everyone involved more determined to make it
the best it could be. That’s why Adria and Grant
took their work to a higher level, adding small
but significant details throughout the house,
including tile insets in the shower and flooring
in guest bathrooms as well as granite counters,
a barrel-vault ceiling leading to the master
suite, and arched doorways and bullnose edges
throughout the home.
Though it doesn’t have homeowners just yet, Left... A mirrored vanity opens up the powder room, bringing in a
it’s easy to see and feel that this house was contemporary flair that’s seen in the rest of the home.

rebuilt for someone special.

Right... Showcasing a wine bar with tasting table and chandelier,
the wine room is a custom feature __ and focal point __ in the home.

Below... The master bath’s luxury is evident

in the tile work and sophisticated fauxed walls.

FIRE
PREVENTION
W E E K
OCTOBER 9-15
For fire prevention and
safety tips from
Fire Chief Jeff Hudson,
Shawnee Fire Station 71
Headquarters, go to
kchandg.com/saving-grace

OCTOBER 2011 • 57
 For All Your Hardware Needs! When Golden Oak
Has To Go

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816-320-3001 Fax
www.precisionwoodsinc.com
58 • KCHANDG.COM
 KCHG
& We first thought up the idea to start a new garden
competition in the middle of a February cold snap.
In the midst of a white wonderland, we dreamed of
lush greenery, splendid color and useful outdoor
amenities. We asked professionals and green
of the thumbs alike to share their projects with us __ and
the results were just what we hoped they would
be. Here are the winning projects of our inaugural
Gardens of the Year competition.

Meet the Judges

Alan Branhagen
Alan is the Director of Horticulture at Powell Gardens and author of The Gardener’s Butterfly Book. He holds a
bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in landscape architecture from Iowa State University and Louisiana State
University, respectively, specializes in garden design and maintenance, and has supervised and designed dozens
of landscaping projects. A member of the American Public Gardens Association, Alan plays a key role in Powell
Gardens, one of the largest botanical gardens in this region. The garden boasts world-class architecture and more
than 17,000 accessions of plant displays that capture the essence of the American Midwest.

Kurt Kraisinger
Kurt is president of Lorax Designs and is a member of both the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). He graduated from Kansas State University with a
Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture and is currently working toward a master’s degree in Regional
and Community Planning from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Kurt is registered in eight states and is
certified in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Designs (LEED), which gives him the opportunity to work on
eco-friendly projects.

Dennis Patton
Dennis just completed his 28th year as a horticulture agent at Johnson County K-State Research and Extension.
He graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Horticulture and a master’s degree in
Adult Education, and he specializes in lawn and garden education. Dennis administers the Extension Master
Gardener Program, which is a program that trains local volunteers interested in gardening. With more than 400
volunteers who have collectively contributed 44,000 hours of community service, the Extension Master Gardener
Program is one of the top programs of its kind in the country. Dennis was just named Top Columnist in the nation
for 2010-2011 by the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.

Lyndsi Oestmann
Lyndsi is the vice president of family-owned Loma Vista Nursery, the largest wholesale grower in Kansas that sells
specifically to landscape contractors and retail nurseries. She graduated from Kansas State University with
degrees in Marketing & International Business and Spanish. Lyndsi is president of the Hort NetWORK, which
promotes green education in the Kansas City area, and is a member of the American Nursery and Landscape
Association (ANLA) and the Kansas Nursery and Landscape Association. Not only does she manage the
nursery’s sales representatives, but she’s also in charge of selecting which plants to grow for the season.

60 • KCHANDG.COM
 Best Curb Appeal
Rosehill Gardens
PHOTOS BY GARY ROHMAN

Landscaping and hardscaping work together to introduce guests and

passersby to this French-style home. A meandering, brick-edged drive
with a stone bridge creates a welcoming entry where only a circle
drive with a small center island previously existed. Sited on a naturally
wooded estate lot, the tree line and casual hedges anchor and balance
the design, creating the perception of depth with their layered heights.
Accent ornamental trees and shrubs successively bloom throughout the
seasons. Designer Gary Lueckenotto purposefully integrated bedding
plants and perennials that would add seasonal interest, as well, and
planted like varieties in waves and groupings to unify the design and
enhance the visual flow. Fine, medium and coarse textures are found in
the broad array of foliage, while the color palette hones in on shades of
green, burgundy and blue contrasts.

Judges’ Comments:
Driving down the street, a first glance turns into a longer look. From a
distance, the landscape all seems to flow, but as you get closer, rich
layers of plant material become detailed. The whole landscape that
leads to the front door says hello and welcome. PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 61
 Best Professional Landscape
Reed Dillon & Associates
P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F R E E D D I L L O N & A S S O C I AT E S

Privacy was priority for this California Mission-style house. The

homeowners, who entertain on a regular basis, asked designer Reed
Dillon for an expansive backyard that consisted of fountains, a small
pool, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, putting green and generous plantings. A
retaining wall was built on the sloped site, and the rest of the yard was
dropped six feet for a level surface to accommodate the wish list. The
gardens reflect the level of detail applied to the house, as though they
were designed together. Linear flagstone terraces offer places for
groups of all sizes to sit and mingle during soirees. A custom-made
pergola with copper panels frames the kitchen space, casting unique
shadow patterns. As requested, two fountains were installed as well as
a modest pool. Abundant flora, including azaleas, hydrangeas, lilies and
roses, is scattered throughout the yard, and spruce trees planted along
the retaining wall provide additional privacy.

Resources:
Terrace Stone: Sturgis Materials;
Custom Copper Shade Panels: Parasoleil

Judges’ Comments:
The Mission-style design is masterfully carried throughout the landscape,
including the hardscape from the patio to retaining wall. The plantings
are appropriate for the site, especially the backdrop of dense evergreen
screening, and the maintenance is impeccable. The site amenities
beckon one to relax and entertain.

62 • KCHANDG.COM
 Best Backyard Garden
The Greensman
P H O T O S B Y TA L I S B E R G M A N I S

The large family living in this classically styled Ward Parkway residence
wanted a comprehensive outdoor living space that would also provide
a distinct sense of place for children and adults when in the various
“rooms.” Designer Kristopher Dabner divided the backyard with three
pergolas, scaled to the size of the house and unified by their consistent
use of materials and detailing inspired by the house’s architecture. The
L-shaped space begins with a fountain original to the house as the
central feature, seen through the house from the front door. An antique
paver brick and bluestone patio connects the elements, including a
dining area, seating area and fireplace. A sport pool was designed with
two shallow ends for the kids to play volleyball and built-in benches for
the big kids to relax with martinis.

Resources:
Pool: Swim Things; Masonry: Meyer Masonry

Judges’ Comments:
The overall design is timeless and coherent, and the hardscape of brick
and stone paths, the elegant white arbor and pergolas complement
the style of the home. The plants fit a soft and tranquil color scheme,
making it the perfect atmosphere for outdoor relaxation and recreation.
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 63
 Best Outdoor Living Space
Creative Outdoor Spaces
PHOTOS BY GARY ROHMAN

The owners of this home were inspired to recreate their backyard after
visiting a home show. While the layout, use, function and transitions of
the transformed space are all new, designer Laura Stack reused all of
the existing resources and products. Old patio pieces became flagstone
paths, and many of the plantings came from transplants and divisions
of existing plants. The reworked stonework includes new transitional
landings and an enlarged paver patio with stone/brick seating and
retaining walls. An enlarged functional dry creek bed provides
separation and depth of space between the old and new patios,
which are connected by an ironwood bridge. A raised pond and
fountain spill into a wading pool for the family dogs, Bonnie and Corky,
providing for their enjoyment and serving as a focal point among the
other elements in the yard.

Resources:
Masonry: Rick Roos Masonry; Pond Installation: Hix & Son Aquatics;
Landscape Installation: Complete Outdoor Expressions

Judges’ Comments:
The unique design makes a true oasis. The mixture of textures makes
excellent transitions from the patios, paths and ponds, and the plant
material provides a soft texture against the stone. The reuse of existing
materials was a creative and interesting solution to the design.

64 • KCHANDG.COM
 Best Water Feature
Rosehill Gardens
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROSEHILL GARDENS

A backyard that drops off 100 feet into Prairie Lee Lake provided a
once-in-a-career opportunity for designer Gary Weidenbach. The master
plan, which the homeowner once described as “like Disneyworld,”
continually evolves with a life of its own. Three water features, including
a large pond and more than 100 feet of stream, were added, creating
the look of a waterway flowing underneath the home into the lake.
Working with little access to the backyard and carrying supplies to the
site via pontoon boat, Rosehill faced unusual challenges, constructing
some of the features off the water. There are also two fire pits, one
tucked into the trees and one overlooking the lake. Two hundred
evergreens, 300 deciduous trees, 1,500 shrubs and more than 2,000
perennials give the Colorado-style home instant woodland credibility.

Judges’ Comments:
A complete package, this water feature combines great design, a
wonderful selection of hardscape materials and a pop of color from
perfectly placed plants. Every step down to the boat dock brings
something new. The disappearing pool into the lake appears to be a
natural spring flowing down the hillside.
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 65
 Best Pool
Naturescapes
PHOTOS BY MROBINSONPHOTO.COM

Escapism is a common theme in pools today, and that was exactly the
idea behind this “resort-style” body of water designed by Dave Barthell.
The pool itself is at the center of a more complete outdoor living space,
including three gas fire bowls and a fire pit, all tied into an automation
system; three levels of stone patios; and stone retaining walls that
double as low seating. A cascading waterfall serves as the focal point
and also doubles as a platform for diving. Large boulders placed
underwater give the illusion that the pool was built into a natural rock
ledge, while an underwater flagstone ledge with an umbrella provides
the perfect combination of water and shade. Stone was obviously an
integral part of the project — or at least the look of stone — so colored
concrete imprinted to resemble stone was used in the expansive patios.
To tie everything in with the landscape, spruce, hemlock and magnolias
were planted to create a backdrop.

Judges’ Comments:
The project represents a nice composition of design elements and use
of materials. The use of stone as a defining character is well-executed,
and the lighting is an important aspect of the presentation.

66 • KCHANDG.COM
 Best Curb Appeal
Silver Leaf Lawn & Landscape
PHOTOS BY JEFF KOLICH

Homeowner and designer Jeff Kolich could never have enough color in
his front yard, and as his garden evolved over the years, he increased
his use of tropicals to achieve the desired effect. A refrigerated semi-
truck transported hundreds of plants directly from Florida, including palm
trees — one reaching more than 24 feet tall — and a variety of hanging
baskets. A true labor of love, the tropical plants are overwintered at
Silver Leaf’s 10-acre business property, where they are cared for until
the following season. The rare-to-the-region species mix with perennials
and evergreens for a look that is unique and fresh every season.

Judges’ Comments:
The wide array of color in this tropical landscape must turn heads on
the street. The repeating use of colors in the foliage and annuals
match nicely.

Best Professional Landscape

Reed Dillon & Associates
P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F R E E D D I L L O N & A S S O C I AT E S

A classic and modest design solution was in order for the backyard of
this Georgian home. With two sons grown, the owners didn’t need any
fancy accessories, just an elegant design that would reflect the style
of their home. Because of an existing drainage swale bisecting the
backyard, designer Reed Dillon decided on a “destination pool” situated
farther from the house. Three bluestone weirs protrude from the brick
fountain wall that borders one side of the pool, providing the calming
sound of falling water. Beds of boxwood, hydrangea and spruce
plantings suit the clean, simple aesthetic. The space is connected via
bluestone path to a brick patio next to the house, used constantly for
entertaining or simply just to be.

Resources:
Stone: Sturgis Materials; Pedestal Urns: Family Tree Nursery;
Pool: Stranger Creek Pools

Judges’ Comments:
The design is clean, elegant and consistent. The hardscape is simple yet
sophisticated, and the plant color scheme of blue, creamy white and rose
pink is balanced and impeccably maintained. PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 67
 Best Backyard Garden
The Artful Gardener and
Janeil and Gary Egger
P H O T O S B Y C AT H E R I N E R E I N S C H

Defined by large boulders, rocks and meandering paths, this acre of

land is swathed in a massive display of trees and plants. The garden
began with what Mother Nature planted, but designer Aaron Bradley
and the homeowners improved the natural outcropping, adding more
than 100,000 tons of boulders and rock to reduce drainage issues and
the steep slope. They added five French drains, stone paths and plantings
of natives and ornamentals. A secret trail, evergreen room and shade
garden offer many different places to enjoy, and plenty of seating is
available. Trees and paths are lit by accent lighting, and the paths are
suitable for Janeil’s golf cart to help her carry the load of supplies.

Judges’ Comments:
The consistent use of natural stone for walkways, retaining walls, edging
and water runoff integrate well with natural outcrops and organic
shapes. The plants have a pleasant color scheme, and native trees are
well-integrated.

Best Outdoor Living Space

Rosehill Gardens
PHOTOS BY GARY ROHMAN

A formal, central “interactive fountain” reminiscent of those on the

Country Club Plaza serves as the focal point for this Overland Park
backyard designed by Steven Heichel. It accomplishes many things in
its compact design, including enough depth for sports pool activities, a
swim jet for stationary swimming, waterfall to buffer sound from an
abutting thoroughfare, swim-up bench seating and sunbathing space.
Details include reflective glass and gold tiles, plus mason-laid stone
courtyard walls with limestone coping and accent pieces. Prepared to
accommodate 10-15 people, the surrounding patio features a grill, fire
pit, oversized urns with gas torches, large pots with seasonal color and
night lighting.

Judges’ Comments:
Creative hardscaping coupled with beautiful landscaping creates much-
needed privacy for this space. Bordered by a fence and retaining wall,
it manages to maintain an open feel, while the plant palette is pleasing
and adds additional screening.

68 • KCHANDG.COM
 Best Water Feature
Naturescapes
PHOTOS BY MROBINSONPHOTO.COM

This envy-worthy water feature creates a “liquid symphony of sound.”

Designer Dave Barthell created a cascading waterfall that flows
down a natural elevation change to a six-person spa, equipped with
hydrotherapy jets and LED lighting. Water travels down large sandstone
boulders covered with moss lichens, and 3,000-pound stone
slabs form a stairway. Groves of spruce and pine and colorful alpine
perennials naturalize the stream. Wedged between the main home
and guest house, it makes a dramatic transitional space. Rock-like
speakers blend into the environment but bring the homeowners’
favorite tunes out to their new natural haven.

Judges’ Comments:
The flowing stream is so natural that one can’t differentiate if it’s in
Kansas or Colorado. Whereas many streams seem forced into the
landscape, the stonework and flowing stream here blend seamlessly
into the space.

Best Pool
Deckscapes/Swim Things
PHOTOS BY MARK HIGGINS, MARKLINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Elevation changes proved to be a minor complication on this property,

but designer Todd Higgins devised a unique drain system camouflaged
in the central fire pit area that funnels water under the patio and walls
into a retention basin. Swimmers can access the pool from multiple
points, including a diving board and ledge, or even the spa. Low
stone courtyard walls encircle the area, and an outdoor kitchen is
incorporated near the house, while landscaped beds, waterfalls and
accent lighting add to the relaxed nature of the space.

Judges’ Comments:
The project has a warm and inviting composition. The spa, water feature
wall, fire pit and lighting are all nicely placed, but it would be nice to see
more landscape beds in the pool deck to create vertical interest and
against the house to soften the transition.

OCTOBER 2011 • 69
 KCHG
&
LATEST & GREATEST HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

FOR THE
OUTDOORS Time to move the party outside, especially when your outdoor
By Brooke Pearl

living space wows with products like these.

RIDE THE WAVES…

Or at least you can pretend to in Royal Botania’s new SURF, a compact version of its super
popular Wave piece. Striking at any glance, the SURF features a full canopy made from
material that blocks 86 percent of the sun’s rays all while allowing you to drift away into a
blissful beachy dream. royalbotania.com

WE HAVE LIFTOFF
This clean, simple, stylish fire pit is a modern take on
an outdoor fireplace. Modfire is the genius idea of
Brandon Williams, metal designer, who ensures each
piece is made by hand. Choose your burning option
— wood, propane, natural gas or
ethanol — and color — blue
agave, orange, deep red or
natural steel. modfire.com

ALUMINUM NEVER
LOOKED SO STYLISH
Henry Hall Designs sets the bar —
again — with its outdoor 10-piece Cast Collection by English
designer John Reeves. Made of 100-percent recycled aluminum
frames and FSC-certified teak wood slats, this collection, including
chairs, dining tables, side tables and bench, features graceful
lines, delicate simplicity and indestructible quality. Custom orders MADE OF STEEL
include solid aluminum pieces, and optional cushions are available. It’s refreshing and whimsical, sensual and minimalist. Henry Hall

henryhalldesigns.com Designs introduces international artist Karim Rashid and his Talenti
Collection — chairs made of steel rods wrapped in metal mesh and
covered with eight coats of ceramic paint. Find this designer lounge
option in white, light yellow, light pink, light turquoise, light green
and bronze. henryhalldesigns.com

UNBREAKABLE BEAUTY
Stone Forest welcomes the 1,000-pound Horta — Etruscan Goddess of Gardens
— dining table to its outdoor collection. Made of basalt, durable volcanic rock,
the surface is flamed then brushed to naturally protect the stone. Elegantly pair
with chairs of your choice. Available through Ferguson Enterprises, Dorfman
Plumbing Supply and Phoenix Supply. stoneforest.com PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 71

HAND FORGED ACCESS CONTROL
AUSTIN IRONWORKS
SITE SPECIFIC METALWORK ▼ Motorized Drive Gates
Estate Fencing ▼ Deck RAILINGS
FORGED BALUSTERS ▼ SPIRAL STAIRCASES
www.austinironworks.com
DESIGN CONSULTATION
72 • KCHANDG.COM
HOME outdoor products
DOUBLE DUTY
Bentintoshape’s reclaimed Sinker Cypress
table-top cover turns a seasonal accessory
into one that can be used year-round.
Because of the wood’s natural preservative
oil, cypresseine, it’s rot- and insect-
resistant, and it’s tight growth rings make
it dense, durable and stable — ideal
qualities to withstand outdoor elements.
bentintoshape.net
NO WEAR OR TEAR
Sawgrass Mills Outdoor Rugs by Hatteras
Outdoors are made of durable, colorfast
outdoor-textile material that’s stain-, rot-,
mold- and mildew-resistant but is also as
soft as cotton. Shown here in Peacock
Choco Éclair, these rugs are hand-hooked
using the company’s own branded solution-
dyed synthetic DuraCord yarns. It’ll feel
good on your feet and stay strong season
after season. Available through Brookstone,
816.454.7736
Dick’s Sporting Goods and Westlake Ace
Hardware. sawgrassmillsrugs.com
HOME outdoor products

FUSION OF FIRE
The Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet Hybrid
Fire Grill is quite an innovative concept
with the option of cooking with wood,
charcoal or gas. A sleek exterior, newly
designed burners, and your pick of
four sizes and 12 different model
variations make this grill a trend-setter.
kalamazoogourmet.com

TAKE DISHWASHING
OUTDOORS
With Kalamazoo’s new outdoor dishwasher,
cleaning will never be the same. With
its powerful wash system, it can clean
dishes, pots and pans left outside or used
over a fire. Added convenience includes
adjustable-height dual rack system, extra
large tub and adjustable stemware shelves
— and it doesn’t waste water, either.
kalamazoogourmet.com
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
OCTOBER 2011 • 73
 HOME outdoor products

COLORFUL COLLECTION
The Veranda Flower Bucket Stand by
Foreside Home and Garden showcases 16
tin flower buckets that fit together in an
iron stand, allowing you to enjoy all of
your favorites at one time. Display on
your patio or veranda for all to see.
Available through J’adore Home &
Garden, The Fiddly Fig, Pryde’s Old
Westport and Trapp and Company.
foresidehomeandgarden.com

Home Remodeling
with Attention
to Architectural
Detailing and
Superior
Craftsmanship THAT’S NOT A WASH
Stone Forest’s Alpine Sink can withstand
anything — literally. Carved from a block
of beige granite, this rustic, above-
counter outdoor sink has a hand-chiseled
exterior and honed interior. It’s durable,
it’s pretty, it’s perfect! Available

913.963.2246 through Ferguson Enterprises, Dorfman

www.archcraftsmen.com Plumbing Supply and Phoenix Supply.

stoneforest.com

74 • KCHANDG.COM
 FACTORY DIRECT APPLIANCE: Lenexa, KS Kansas City, MO Lee’s Summit, MO Lawrence, KS Topeka, KS
DOOLITTLE DISTRIBUTING INC FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY: Lenexa, KS
(913) 888-7820 REGARDING KITCHENS: Lenexa, KS
NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART: Kansas City, KS

OCTOBER 2011 • 75
 life begins outdoors

w w w. m r o b i n s o n p h o t o. c o m

● Pools
● Spas
● Landscapes
● Lighting
● Masonry
● Fire Effects

discovernaturescapes.com
913.814.8700
 KCHG
&
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

ALL
the publishers of kansas city homes & gardens present

IN
an exclusive portfolio of family-owned businesses,

THE
the bedrock of our local community

F A M I LY
Photography by Matt Kocourek

OCTOBER 2011 • 77
 ALL ARMSTRONG KITCHENS
IN Mark and Betty Armstrong (center), Kristeen Armstrong-Scott, CKD, and Lowell Scott

THE
F A M I LY What is your specialty at Armstrong Kitchens?
We work with a number of different rooms, but our
specialty is turning dated, tired old kitchens into fresh,
well-designed, beautiful new ones. Sometimes we need to
start from scratch with a complete redesign, and other
times we simply fix specific problems. Our ability to take
the project from concept to completion is unique and
something we’ve developed over decades.

What roles do family members play in the company?

Each family member wears a number of hats, as in any
family operation. But to oversimplify, Kristeen runs the
design end while Lowell runs the field end. Armstrong
Kitchens has four amazing designers, who each have their
NKBA credentials and design degrees, and joke that they
are all adopted Armstrongs.

What makes a family business unique from others?

There’s the permanence, the lifetime commitment. If you
got your kitchen from us in 1964 and now you need
another, we’re still here! And chances are good that we’ll
remember you personally and may even be able to scare
up your old file.

What is something most people don’t know

about your company?
In our earlier days, the 1980s, we served numerous
accounts spread across six states. Mark and Kristeen each
had a plane and flew them to get to those various repeat
customers scattered around small towns.

What is Armstrong Kitchens known for?

Customers know that we work hard for them to be
comfortable with the project. We are detail people, and
the organization we give to our plans and projects is how
we stay on schedule and budget. We are consistent and
known for giving our clients a lot of attention.

What can be expected of your company in the future?

9 3 1 0 W. 8 7 t h S t. , O v e r l a n d Pa r k , K S
913.642.3337 | ArmstrongKitchens.com
Teaching in the Interior Design Department at JCCC
helps Kristeen stay out in front and avoid becoming stale
as a designer. And at the leading edge of current design
thinking are the growing fields of Designing For Life and
Sustainability to gain fresh ideas for future projects.

78 • KCHANDG.COM
 BORDNER INSTALLATION GROUP ALL
Jerry Fleenor, Sam Fleenor, Chris Hinson, Rob Poettgen
Front row (left to right): IN
Back row (left to right): Charley Fleenor, Bud Fleenor, Cliff Fleenor, Sonja Shanahan
THE
How did Bordner Installation Group get its start? F A M I LY
The business was founded in 1987 as mainly a new-
construction roofing company. We are an exterior home-
improvement company that focuses on roofing, stucco,
windows, siding and gutters. We do new construction,
multifamily and commercial work.

What’s your specialty?

We specialize in high-quality installation work and
superior customer service. Every one of our jobs is
assigned a supervisor to help ensure that the product is
installed properly. We have more than 40,000 satisfied
customers in the Kansas City area and not a single
complaint from the Better Business Bureau.

What’s the best thing about working in a

family-owned business?
We all get along and work well together since we know
that we are working with people we can trust. Everyone
is more concerned about the customers than they are
about themselves.

What feedback do you receive from customers?

We send out a customer survey on every job we do, and
the overwhelming response is that people are appreciative
of the work and service we provide. From time to time,
we do make mistakes and mess things up, but we will
always do whatever we can to make things right with the
customer, which includes completely redoing something
if it is required.

What’s something most people don’t know

about your company?
We may cost a little more than our competitors, but we
don’t put that in our pockets. We put the additional money
into the job to ensure that there are no problems down the
road. Our belief is that the installation is more important
than the product itself.
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

1 1 9 5 0 E . 3 5 0 H i g h wa y, R a y t o w n , M O
816.303.0512 | BordnerInstall.com

OCTOBER 2011 • 79
 ALL BRANCATO’S CATERING
IN Steve Brancato, Mario Brancato and Andrew Brancato

THE
F A M I LY What is your specialty?
Our specialty is creating a unique event experience. We
are the only local company that can provide everything
from equipment to food under one management. Our
customers only have to deal with one representative to
plan their event. The synergy between both companies
allows us to create remarkable experiences.

What roles do family members play in the company?

Although we all have our own roles, we seem to
collaborate on most major decisions. Steve oversees
the day-to-day operations of the rental company and
handles rental bids. Mario handles the accounting
portion of the business as well as sales and catering bids.
Andrew handles the day-to-day operations of the catering
company and marketing.

What makes a family business unique?

The fact that we can make decisions easily. If we were not
family, these decisions would be much harder. Because
we are family, we know that we will all have each other’s
support. Family is like a chain that cannot be broken.

What is something most people don’t know

about your company?
We manufacture our own tents, and we actually have a tent
sales division that is growing rapidly. We now manufacture
and sell tents all over the world. We also have a restaurant
inside historic Union Station, called Harvey’s at Union
Station. We are one of the larger equipment providers for
PGA golf tournaments and currently do work in more
than 10 states and Puerto Rico.

What is Brancato’s best known for?

Great food at a great price. Being able to bundle our
products and service makes event-planning much easier.
Our staff, in every department, is well-trained and
understands how important every event is. They work hard
to ensure that each job we do is a success.

What is on the horizon?

7 0 2 B l u e R i d g e B l v d . , G r a n d v i e w, M O
816.765.4707 | BrancatosCatering.com
Expansion into a larger portion of the golf market,
elevated catering packages from our new restaurant at
Union Station, a new facility, expanded inventory, and
continued growth and success in the tent sales division.

80 • KCHANDG.COM
 DESIGN BUILD TEAM ALL
David and Merejo Dussair IN
THE
What is your specialty? F A M I LY
Architecture and construction of custom homes, additions
and remodeling — we are registered architects in Kansas
and Missouri. We design the project, price it then build it,
saving time and money. Our motto is: “One source of
responsibility from start to finish.”

What roles do family members play in the company?

Merejo manages and holds onto the money, with the help
of an assistant bookkeeper. David has the architectural
education to design the projects and price the work.

What makes a family business unique?

The word “unity” says it — “united we stand, divided we
fall.” We both are passionate about good design and
craftsmanship. It is more of a calling than just a job. Even
though a lot of people believe we should separate work
from our personal lives, we neither believe we need to do
that nor do we make that separation.
We are surrounded by good design in our lives,
whether it’s the beauty of the forest we live in or the
pleasing proportions of our home and office.

What is something most people don’t know

about your company?
We have an office cat who loves to play with the drawings!
But we are serious about the details — balancing the
checking account to the penny every month for 35 years;
“We draw the details,” one of our tag lines; estimating
construction costs — we have to be very thorough about
pricing work for people, as every job is different.

What is your company best known for?

Great design and craftsmanship in construction. We are
also known for being kind to people — our own employees,
our clients, our subcontractors, the building inspectors,
other peoples’ animals and each other.

What is on the horizon?

We are moving the DBT office down to our shop at 1243
Merriam Lane sometime next year. We have built an
exciting space by taking out all the interior walls, adding
5 2 4 2 Fo s t e r , O v e r l a n d Pa r k , K S
beam and cable supports, and adding artwork into the
architecture. We plan to use it also as a gallery space,
913.722.1443 | D e s i g n B u i l d Te a m . c o m
calling it the “West Crossroads.” (That’s pushing it a
little bit!) PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 81
 ALL DORFMAN PLUMBING SUPPLY
IN Charlie and Jo Dorfman

THE
F A M I LY What is your specialty?
We are a full-service plumbing supply with residential
and light commercial pipe, valves and fixtures. Our main
revenue producer is our 7,500-square-foot showroom
with working and static displays of fixtures from
manufacturers around the globe.

What roles do family members play in the company?

I (Charlie) am the president. My main job is to sit in the
office, drink martinis and smoke cigars...while getting
back rubs. Occasionally, I inter-react with the customers,
but normally that doesn’t work out too well, so my
salespeople would rather I stay out of sight. My wife is
the Salesperson-in-Chief. She’s in charge of customer
relations and is requested by customers throughout the
city. Her background is as a speech clinician, who taught
little kids, and now that she’s in this business, she teaches
big kids. She didn’t know anything about the business,
and now she knows everything about every manufacturer.

What makes a family business unique?

A family business can be unique if it and its employees
behave like a family. Employees are freer to exhibit their
true personalities. That can make work pretty interesting,
but it is what it is. Each and every person who comes
here is given the most helpful individual service from the
well-trained and knowledgeable employees we can
muster. Our customers appreciate what we do for them,
and we certainly appreciate their business.

What is something most people don’t know

about your company?
Our employees have outstanding experience, having
been with us an average of 10 years each. We ship
merchandise to former Kansas City residents and
customers who have moved all over the United States.
We like to have a good time, but we work extremely hard
to make our customers happy.

What is Dorfman Plumbing best known for?

1 8 4 0 C h e r r y, K a n s a s C i t y M O
816.842.4656 | DorfmanPlumbing.com
82 • KCHANDG.COM
Our vast selection and competitive prices combined with
great service and a willingness to go the extra mile to find
what our customers need.
What is on the horizon?
We have been in business since 1927. We are looking
forward to a strong year in 2027.
 NITELITES OF KANSAS CITY ALL
Denny Bringman and Doug Bringman IN
THE
What is your specialty? F A M I LY
We specialize in outdoor lighting that illuminates, accents
and enhances our clients’ outdoor environments. Whether
the application is residential or commercial, our skilled
lighting designers create a lighting display that maximizes
your property’s attributes.

What roles do family members play in the company?

Doug Bringman is the General Manager and the face of our
brand name. He oversees everything from sales to installations
and has literally been in the trenches for more than 10 years.
Denny Bringman is the COO and the man behind the
scenes. He keeps our company efficiently moving forward in
a positive direction. His engineering background helps the
company stayed focused on the new green light initiatives.

What makes a family business unique?

When your family is involved, there is more pride in your
workmanship. Our line of work consists of long days in
scorching heat to bitterly cold winters. Having the support of
your family makes it easier to overcome any challenges that
present themselves, plus it’s great working with your best
friend who is also your brother.

What is something most people don't know

about your company?
The LED and halogen bulbs we use are specifically designed
for use with our proprietary line of NiteLites fixtures. We
only install high-quality, energy-efficient, low-voltage genuine
NiteLites fixtures and transformers that are manufactured to
our exact specifications.

What is your company best known for?

Outstanding customer service! Every application is custom-
designed, which makes it personal to us and our clients. We
100-percent guarantee every lighting job we sell because we
know and understand the design of lighting.

What is on the horizon?

Our research and design group is constantly updating
our products with more variety and higher efficiency
applications. We will soon have five new LED lighting
applications available to us that include a 1.7 watt 913.871.1299 | NiteLites.com
Candelabra-style light and a flexible line LED that can
be bent and shaped to match the architecture to which
it is applied. PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 83
 ALL ONE STOP DECORATING CENTER
IN Steve and Cherie Roellchen,
Brandon Roellchen, Jason Roellchen and Chrissy Roellchen
THE
F A M I LY What is your specialty?
Beautiful window treatments. We have four Hunter
Douglas Window Fashion Galleries in Kansas City. We do
free in-home consultations for blinds, shades, plantation
shutters and custom draperies. We also have our own
professional installers and painting service, and we carry
other types of decorating items for the home, from
wallpaper, paint and decorative accessories to framed art,
mirrors and more. Indeed, we are a one-stop shop!

What roles do family members play in the company?

Steve, president and CEO, handles store operations,
advertising and marketing. He is also the regional
manager for Exciting Windows!, a national window
coverings organization. Cherie, co-owner and professional
interior designer (including ASID status), handles human
resources. Son Brandon is responsible for the Northland
location as well as installation services and is a
professional window coverings expert. Son Jason is
responsible for the Lee’s Summit location as well as the
website and Web marketing, the shutter segment of the
business and sales on a daily basis. Chrissy (Jason’s wife) is
responsible for the Overland Park location and is also an
interior designer specializing in custom window treatments,
custom bedding and overseeing remodel projects.

What is something most people don’t know

about your company?
We have been in business 16 years and have grown to four
locations. We have very competitive prices and unparalleled
service. We are a top-ranked window coverings dealer in
the country.

What is your company best known for?

Great service! More than 70 percent of our business is
repeat and referral customers. We are known for great
pricing and exceptional service. We sell only quality
products and service everything we sell. We have an A+
rating with the BBB. Our associates have been with us a
long time and they are professionally trained.

L o c at i o n s i n S h a w n e e , O v e r l a n d Pa r k , What is on the horizon?

Lee’s Summit and the Northland We will add additional store locations and additional
913.631.0088 | OneStopDecorating.com design consultants and invest in new technology to enhance
the customer’s experience with us; and always look for the
best products available that meet our quality standards.
84 • KCHANDG.COM
 REECE & NICHOLS __ THE MULLER TEAM ALL
Charlene Muller, Linda McGuinn and Shawn Muller IN
THE
What is your specialty? F A M I LY
We pride ourselves on providing effective marketing for sellers
and strong advocacy for both buyers and sellers. The three of
us collectively possess more than 50 years of experience in all
home price ranges in both Kansas and Missouri. We fully
embrace Reece & Nichols’ vision, which is to create and
deliver a remarkable home buying and selling experience.

What roles do family members play in the company?

Although each member of the team does a little bit of
everything, Charlene is the driving force behind marketing
planning, targeting property acquisition and quality of
performance assurance.
As well as providing full-service real estate representation,
Shawn is the team’s resident technical expert, acting as its
webmaster and photographer. His computer, social media
and Internet expertise play a material role in moving
transactions to successful conclusions.
Linda, in addition to handling administrative responsibilities
and providing full-service real estate representation, is the
team’s “stager.” She understands what should go in and what
should come out of a property to present it at its best.

What makes a family business unique?

The mutual trust and respect found in a family business,
coupled with the absolute knowledge that family and team
members have one another’s backs is empowering. It
provides a bulwark against the ongoing challenges inherent
in dealing with most families’ largest investment.

What is something most people don’t know

about your company?
The Muller Team has been the top-producing team in the
Town Center office of Reece & Nichols for many years. We
are small but mighty.

What is your company best known for?

Guiding both buyers and sellers in defining their own true
desired outcomes and then patiently and doggedly driving the
process forward to achieving those goals.

What is on the horizon?

9 1 3 . 2 6 6 . 5 4 2 6 (C harle ne )
We have already incorporated social media and other modern
9 1 3 . 2 6 6 . 5 4 2 5 (L inda) | 9 1 3 . 2 6 6 . 5 4 9 0 (Shawn)
technologies into our representation of both buyers and sellers.
M u l l e r Te a m . c o m
We intend to stay nimble and versatile in an ever-changing
CharleneMuller@ReeceandNichols.com
real estate world.
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

OCTOBER 2011 • 85
 ALL SCOTT’S DIAMOND DESIGNS
IN Scott and Monica Wagner, Tamara Wainscott

THE
F A M I LY How did Scott’s Diamond Designs get its start?
From 1974 to 1982, Scott had a jewelry store with a
partner. In spring of 1982, though, he sold his ownership
and opened Scott’s Diamond Designs. With Scott’s
artistic background, he can design and create one-of-a-
kind pieces. He has more than 37 years of experience in
repairing and creating jewelry.

What’s your specialty?

We offer better quality fine jewelry that is not seen in
chain and discount stores. We also are able to service all
of the items we sell.

What makes a family business unique,

especially in your line of work?
We have a small staff consisting of only three family
members. Because we focus on serving our customers,
we are willing to pay top dollar for gold and silver.

What challenges come with working at a family-owned

business? How do you face those challenges?
We have been able to adapt and survive in an ever-
changing economic climate. There has been road
construction and much more competition. Unlike many
chain stores that seem to have an unlimited advertising
budget, we have survived by the referrals of our happy
customers.

What’s something many don’t know

about your company?
We love to educate our customers, and we especially
love teaching them about diamonds. We show them what
qualities to look for and how to compare seemingly
identical diamonds.

1 0 5 1 0 W. 1 0 3 r d S t. , O v e r l a n d Pa r k , K S
913.492.0011 | ScottsDiamondDesigns.com

86 • KCHANDG.COM
 STONEWORTH BUILDING PRODUCTS ALL
Andy Alingh, Drew Alingh and Jeanne Alingh with Rocky IN
THE
What is Stoneworth Building Products known for? F A M I LY
We are a local concrete roof tile manufacturer. We pride
ourselves on the relationships we have created in the
building community by delivering consistent quality and
customer service. Concrete roof tile is sweeping the
country as an affordable, high-end alternative to other
roofing products, making it the best and most economical
choice for new construction and re-roofing.

What is your specialty?

Customization. With our wide variety of traditional and
contemporary roof tiles and extensive choices of colors,
our customer can create a roofscape that is as subtle as an
English country manor or as dramatic as a Tuscan villa.
Our showroom and design center display many different
combinations that allow customers to visualize the many
options to beautify and protect their home or building.

What roles do family members play in the company?

Andy Alingh is our founder and president. Jeanne Alingh
serves as our office manager. Drew Alingh manages our
sales department.

What is something most people don’t know

about the company?
We actually manufacture our roof tile here in Shawnee,
Kan., and service a seven-state territory. The raw materials
used in our manufacturing process come from local
providers. This allows our products to be green, sustainable
and qualify for LEED point certification.

What makes a family business unique from others?

An enduring commitment to values is the greatest
strength and advantage that family ownership can bring to
a company. When your family name is connected to a
business, you have a heightened responsibility to make
sure your customers are 100-percent satisfied.

What’s on the horizon?

We see the roofing industry evolving to a higher-quality
and more-sustainable market. We feel that Stoneworth
is well-positioned to meet the demands of the roofing
4025 Bonner Industrial Drive, Shawnee, KS
industry. More homeowners will require a product that is
not petroleum-based like asphalt shingles and has the
913.422.0794 | S t o n e w o r t h C o m p a n y. c o m
highest resistance to the potentially damaging storms that
regularly occur in our region.
OCTOBER 2011 • 87
 Ask your realtor for an
A.B. May Home Warranty.
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nearly any household problem 24 hours a day.*

• Plumbing • Electrical
• Heating and Cooling • Major Appliances

Call now for your Home Warranty

913-ABMAYKC Serving Kansas City Since 1959
913-226-2952
www.abmay.com *subject to terms of agreement

88 • KCHANDG.COM
Let us give you the space that
you need and want!
Whether you want to redo your room
or construct a new one,
our team can transform your wish list
into the reality of a beautifully
remodeled home.

$1,000
OFF
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or Bathroom
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Call today for a Free Estimate

913.780.1144
cvandersoninc.com

OCTOBER 2011 • 89
 KCHG
&
LIFESTYLE

The Devil Wears Frosting

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAGE COMMUNICATIONS

Looking for a scary good treat this fall? Forget the pumpkin bucket of candy. Sign up for a
cooking class __ (KCH&G’s last Cooking School is this month!) or try your hand at one of four
chefs’ Halloween-themed concoctions. They’re to die for.
 P H O T O S B Y M AT T K O C O U R E K

French Flair
Comfort Food with a

L eave it to Chaz on the Plaza’s Executive Chef Charles d’Ablaing — with help from
friend and Chef Marshall Roth — to take a seemingly normal menu and turn it into something
spectacular. Who knew beef, potatoes and peaches could be that elegant?! While the kitchen made
its final preparations, guests sipped on a choice of Somerset Ridge Vineyard & Winery’s Riesling
or Chardonel, toured Peak at Home’s new showroom and tried on silver-u-wear.com’s jewelry,
handmade out of silverware with jewels, beads and Swarovski crystals.

92 • KCHANDG.COM
8888888 88888888

8
The Menu
Baby spinach salad, local goats’ milk feta cheese, heirloom tomatoes, homemade almond
cracker, and peaches and cream vinaigrette
8 Roasted 40-day aged prime beef tenderloin, tomato gratin and pommes noisette
(In French, pommes means ‘potato’ and noisette means ‘hazelnut.’ From Epicurious,
noisette refers to potatoes that are cut into tiny, hazelnut-shaped balls then sautéed in
butter until well-browned.)
8 Brown sugar-roasted peaches, vanilla bean ice cream and maple tuile (French for ‘tile’, tuile
is a thin, crisp cookie that is placed over a rounded object (like a rolling pin) while still hot
from the oven.)

P
The Venue
eak at Home, a kitchen and bath showroom located in the Historic West Bottoms, opened
to the public in January 2011. The first chef to take advantage of the working kitchen — and
make a delicious mess — was Chef Charles d’Ablaing at KCH&G’s Cooking School. Peak at
Home, a division of Peak Auctioneering, specializes in quality kitchen cabinets, and all materials
used in this showroom were made in the USA, many even local. Visit the showroom today to
find more about Peak’s motto: “Catering to the client with a champagne taste on a beer budget.”

8888888888888888
OCTOBER 2011 • 93
8888888 88888888
The Wine The Recipes
S omerset Ridge Vineyard & Winery is
known for its tasty Kansas-grown, hand-picked,
ALMOND CRACKERS
3 egg whites 1 C Parmesan cheese, grated
handmade wine. It’s something owners Dennis 2C fine almond meal 2 T olive oil
1t baking soda 1 T salt
and Cindy Reynolds take much pride in making
1 clove garlic, minced 4 T water
and distributing. Planted in 1998, this hillside
vineyard and winery continues to spread the 1. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and stir to form moist, sticky dough.
Midwest’s reputation as a vibrant, high-growth Add more water or oil if needed.
area for grape-growing and wine production. 2. Using wet hands, place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment
Get to their tasting room today! paper. Using your fingers, flatten the dough out into a uniform thin layer free
of cracks.
3. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 15 minutes or until dough becomes dry
and golden in appearance.
2 3 5 4. Remove and cool on a wire baking rack.
1 4 6
PEACHES AND CREAM VINAIGRETTE
2 peaches, pealed 4T sugar
4T heavy cream 1t tarragon, chopped
¼C white wine vinegar 1t Dijon
½C canola oil

1. Combine all ingredients and blend.

2. Serve immediately.

1. Chardonel __ Rich like its parent grape, Chardonnay,
but with terrific upfront fruit and a crisp, tangy finish of
pears and green apples.
2. Riesling __ The first Riesling ever made in the state of
Kansas! At about 1 percent residual sugar, this is a wine
everyone can agree on. Refreshing and made from 100-
percent estate-grown Riesling grapes from Kansas.
3. Oktoberfest __ A highly popular German-style white.
It’s a holiday and year-round favorite as well as a winner
of the national Jefferson Cup. Pair with salad
4. Ruby Red — A meritage blend of Cabernet
Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Chancellor. Complex
raspberry and blackcurrant fruit and aged in American
Oak barrels. Pair with beef
5. Ambrosia — Late-harvest white dessert wine. Made
from very ripe Traminette grapes. Pair with dessert
6. Ruby Port — A red desset wine fortified with brandy.
Pair with dessert
MAPLE TUILE
3T maple syrup 2½ T butter, melted and unsalted
½C plus 2 T granulated sugar 3T melted butter to
1 pinch salt grease the parchment paper
3 egg whites from large eggs 2T milk
1. Sift the flour, sugar and salt into a small mixing bowl.
2. Add the egg whites then melted unsalted butter and whisk until just combined.
3. Set the batter aside to rest for 1½ hours before using or cover and refrigerate
for up to three days.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Heavily butter three pieces of parchment paper and
place one each on three baking sheets.
5. Using 1½ T per tuile, spoon the batter onto the baking sheets, five per sheet.
(The cookies should be at least two inches apart, as they spread during
baking.)
6. Dipping a finger in the milk first, spread each cookie into a three-inch round.
(To ensure even baking, make the edges no thinner than the centers.)
7. Bake the tuiles for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers
are just beginning to color. Remove the cookies from the oven.
8. As soon as they are cool enough to handle, remove the tuiles from the baking
sheets and drape them around rolling pins or wine bottles. If the cookies
become too cool and stiff to bend, return them to the oven for a minute or so
and they will soften up.

8 Special Thanks to Our Partners 8 8 Next event: Wednesday, Oct. 26 at Doolittle Distributing
raphaelkc.com • peakhomeproducts.com 8 Chef: Renee Kelly, Renee Kelly’s at Caenen Castle
somersetridge.com • accentrents.com 8 Tickets: $40, nonrefundable
8 Register: bpearl@nci.com or 913.648.5757, ext. 12

To see more cooking school photos, visit kchandg.com/french-comfort-food

94 • KCHANDG.COM
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HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE

KCH&G’s Cooking School is a fun, instructional evening of food and Hen House Markets offer many different kinds of cooking classes with
wine. Each class rotates between various showrooms and features different area Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr. 913.648.1441 or henhouse.com
chefs. Time: 6-9 p.m. Registration: $40 per person. Contact bpearl@nci.com. October 15 — Bountiful Harvest Cookery

October 26 — Doolittle Distributing with Renee Kelly November 19 — Traditional Thanksgiving Fare
December 17 — The Art of Entertaining to Keep It Simple

The Culinary Center of Kansas City offers numerous classes from

beginning to advanced. 913.341.4455 or kcculinary.com Johnson County Community College offers a range of cooking

October 4 — Chicken Many Ways classes that aren’t just for college credit. 913.469.8500 or jccc.edu
October 10 — Homestyle Asian October 6 — New Traditional Mexican Cooking

October 15 — BBQ’n with Booze October 13 — Moroccan Cooking

October 25, December 13 — Intro to Fresh Pasta-Making October 19 — Taste of India: Vegetarian

November 7 — Artisanal Breads November 3 — Holiday Hors d’oeuvres

November 14 — Creative Fish Cookery November 9 — Quick and Easy Meals

November 29 — Handmade Ravioli and Filled Pastas

November 30 — Gluten-Free Cooking Somerset Ridge Winery & Vineyard makes its own wine and hosts
December 19 — Death by Chocolate these delicious events. 913.491.0038 or somersetridge.com
October 8-9 — Oktoberfest
Kitchen Thyme offers holiday cooking classes and specialty classes with October 16 — Slow Food Kansas City Harvest Dinner
experienced chefs year-round. 816.587.9100 or mykitchenthyme.com
October 17 — Autumn Harvest Dinner Wines by Jennifer welcomes its 9th Annual Wines by Jennifer Grape
October 24 — 100 Days of Holidays Stomp, a California Alfresco Wine Dinner and its Oktoberfest celebration all
November 14 — Specialty Class with Judith Fertig throughout the month of October. 816.505.9463 or winesbyjennifer.com

A Thyme for Everything has a variety of cooking classes for adults and The Latin Culinary Center shows how to cook with cultural flair.
children. 816.554.3755 or athymeforeverything.com 816.420.9333 or latinculinarycenter.com
October 11, November 2 — Pumpkin Cake October 3 — Spanish Food: Remembering our Spanish Motherland.
October 15 — Mummy Cake/Frankenstein Cake October 10 — Tamales: Grandma’s Wonderful Flavors
October 18 — Soups and Salads
October 22 — Fondant Ghost Cupcakes
Function Junction not only features kitchen gadgets and cookware but
October 29 — Haunted Tree Stump Cake
cooking classes too. 816.283.3033 or functionjunction.com
November 1 — A Heartland Fireside Supper
October 8 — Classic Sugar Cookies with Martin
November 14 — Sicilian Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr.

These locations also offer cooking classes, demonstrations and tastings but
Jowler Creek Winery hosts wine tastings and seasonal cooking classes
fall/winter schedules weren’t available by press time:
for every holiday. 816.858.5528 or jowlercreek.com
Off the Vine Design & Cellar: 913.951.9660 or offthevinekc.com
October 29-30 — Halloween Candy and Wine Pairing
UMKC Communiversity: 816.235.1407 or umkc.edu/commu
November 21, 28, December 12 — Santa’s Sipping Workshop
Renee Kelly’s at Caenen Castle: 913.631.4100 or reneekellys.com
December 10-11 and 17-18 — Christmas Cookie and Wine Pairing
The Cooking Studio: 913.652.9633 or wholefoodsmarket.com
Williams-Sonoma: 816.561.4358 or williams-sonoma.com
Holyfield Winery: 913.724.9463 or holyfieldwinery.com
The Tasteful Olive: 913.649.7900 or thetastefulolive.com

OCTOBER 2011 • 97
 As the witching hour approaches, there’s something about Halloween that heightens the senses.
Attuned to the nuances of texture and taste, four hometown architects
of confection graciously craft their most decadent creations.

story by gloria gale photos by matt kocourek

Boo! Your Friends Won’t Believe You Saw A Ghost

(Nor How Good This Toasty Ghosty Semifreddo Is)
Lidia’s chef Danica Pollard is possessed by pastries. “I mousse to gelato, and that’s why I’ve chosen a pumpkin

always loved to cook and knew I wanted to become a cake with a semi-frozen layer __ I call it Toasty Ghosty

chef. My first job was at Nobu in New York where I sharpened Semifreddos. It’s an Italian spin on a Baked Alaska, a classic

my skills. For the last four years, I’ve been at Lidia’s as the dessert that combines frozen elements (typically ice cream;

pastry chef.” in this case, two flavors of semifreddo atop a cake base

The Freight House’s stylish Italian cucina is Chef Pollard’s layer) that are surrounded by a thick layer of meringue.

domain, where she is a natural at whipping up seasonal The meringue provides insulation for the frozen interior and

sweets that make her customers swoon. allows the meringue to be browned in the oven or with a

“I really enjoy making frozen desserts, from ice cream and hand-held torch without melting the contents.”

Find the recipe online at kchandg.com/semifreddos

98 • KCHANDG.COM

Things That Go Crunch,
Like This Cinnamon ‘n’ Spice Apple Dish
Pastry chef Dominique Perez started her romance with
the culinary arts at a very young age when she was taught
that the heart of the family beats in the kitchen. Her earliest
memories were baking cupcakes with her mother and helping
her grandmother prepare traditional Mexican fare. “My family
was so supportive throughout my journey of becoming a
chef,” she says.
She acquired a basic knowledge of the culinary arts at the
Guadalupe Centers Culinary School located on the same
Find the recipe online at kchandg.com/apple-crunch
KCHG
&
HOME . INTERIOR . OUTDOOR . LIFESTYLE
block as her grandmother’s home in Kansas City’s Westside
Latin community. There, she gained the skills that would later
launch her six-year career working with premier chefs in
Dallas, Texas. She returned to Kansas City and found her
niche as a pastry chef first at Michael Smith and presently
with Carl Thorne-Thomsen at his elegant Prairie Village
restaurant, Story. Chef Perez is head-over-heels for this
Halloween apple and popcorn novelty that she hopes people
find sinfully delicious. PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
OCTOBER 2011 • 99
 The Devil Wants Soul Food __ this Pumpkin Bread
Pudding with Pecan Crumble __ Not Just Your Soul
How did a boy from Indiana finally wind up in Kansas via
Paris and Colorado? “It was a long and winding road,” says
Executive Chef John Westerhaus, the gregarious chef/owner
of his namesake restaurant, WestChase Grille.
Chef Westerhaus has always had a passion for food. It
shows in his culinary skills that reflect his training from
Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, graduating with honors in both its
cuisine and pastry programs. Following years of experience
owning/managing restaurants in Albuquerque, Vail and
Beaver Creek, Colo., has only enhanced his expertise.
“WestChase specializes in serving upscale comfort food in a
warm, elegant and inviting atmosphere.” Chef Westerhaus’
Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Pecan Crumble melds the
best of the season’s aromatic ingredients that’s sure to stir
the soul.

Find the recipe online at kchandg.com/pumpkin-bread-pudding

100 • KCHANDG.COM
 We All Scream for…
Gingerbread Ice Cream Sandwiches
Megan Garrelts, executive pastry chef and co-owner (along and at the Getty Center Restaurant in Los Angeles.

with husband, Colby), opened bluestem in 2004. Showcasing According to Megan, “Who says ice cream sandwiches are

chef Colby’s Progressive American Cuisine and Chef Megan’s only for summer? At bluestem, we adapt this fun dessert to

New Varieties of American Desserts, bluestem has received autumn by layering a spicy gingerbread cake with salted

rave reviews on a local and national basis. pumpkin ice cream. A drizzle of warm butterscotch laced with

Chef Megan’s culinary background includes graduating citrus gives it a perky edge. Topped with a spiced nutty corn

from the Culinary Institute of America in 2000, working with an added caramel crunch gives memories of candy-filled

with Pastry Chef Richard Leach at Park Avenue Café in Halloween nights. Although this gingerbread cake recipe calls

New York City, Pastry Chef Gale Gand at TRU in Chicago for a porter, you can substitute a stout beer.” PLEASE TURN THE PAGE

Find the recipe online at kchandg.com/gingerbread-ice-cream-sandwich

OCTOBER 2011 • 101

 LIFESTYLE treats

Inspirational Spaces
Dig in to these specialty shops, where
dare to Halloween is elevated with ghoulish
delight. The treats are heavenly, so stop by
dream
and indulge.

what can Dolce Baking Company ramps up for the

holiday with a 9” and 6” spiderweb cake,
be achieved $30 and $18. You asked for them and
now they’re back...old-fashioned pumpkin
in your whoopie pies, $3.50 each. Dolce Baking
Company, 6974 Mission Road in Prairie
timber frame
Village. dolcebakingcompany.com

home A spooktacular potion tops the list when

you taste Christopher Elbow’s sinfully rich
Coco Noir. This coarse ground drinking
Free State FOR MORE INFORMATION chocolate is available in three wickedly
CALL MATT SMITH OF
, inc. FREE STATE
delicious flavors: peppermint, mocha and
Specializing in Custom Timber Frames Venezuelan Spice. $16 for a 16 oz. tin.
TIMBERSMITHS, INC.
17635 NALL ●
STILWELL, KS 66085 913.897.5262 Christopher Elbow, 1819 McGee, KCMO.
elbowchocolates.com
Hometown favorite Velvet Crème will
fire up its kettles this Halloween. Their
Treats without Tricks tin can be filled with
any flavor popcorn you wish ($17.75 for 2
gallon). Thrill the kids with snack boxes
brimming with more treats __ like large
or small popcorn balls, always a hit. Velvet
Crème Popcorn, 4710 Belinder, Westwood,
Kan. velvetcremepopcorn.com
Natasha’s Mulberry and Mott stirs up a
tizzy when she offers her French macaroons.
These are the treats you’ve been waiting
for: candy corn, black licorice and red hot
cinnamon, $1.95 each. Natasha’s Mulberry
and Mott, 10573 Mission Road, Leawood,
Kan. natashasmulberryandmott.com
Smallcakes Cupcakery features its
infamous pumpkin cupcake with cream
cheese frosting. You’ll also find traditional
vanilla and chocolate cake with orange and
black buttercream detailed with spooky
fondant bats, skeletons and pumpkins. $3
each. Smallcakes Cupcakery, locations in
Olathe, Overland Park and Lee’s Summit.
smallcakescupcakery.com
102 • KCHANDG.COM
 Design Inspiration & tips from
top designers & HGTV celebs?
Tune in Sunday 10am on

Designer
and host
C 2005 All rights reserved
Karen Mills
Executive producer Andrew Ellenberg

Sign up for “5 Steps to Better Design”, listen to our podcasts

and get inspired on our blog
log at livinglargeshow.com
Connect with us on Living Large Facebook fan page karenmariemills
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* = View these advertisers’ profiles in our luxury directory at kchandg.com
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America's Heartland Gallery ...................................................42
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Architectural Craftsmen .........................................................74
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Atlas Stone Distribution .........................................................11
Austin Iron Works* ................................................................72
Bednar Interiors* ...................................................................42
Bordner Installation* ..............................................................79
Brancato’s Catering/All Seasons Party Rental .........................80
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Euston Kitchen Co. .................................................................20
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Holthaus Building ...................................................................35
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104 • KCHANDG.COM
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