The sweater dress is making a big statement this season, especially in shades of plum. By Plastic Island, this belted v-neck version accentuates your curves, thanks to the flared skirt and short sleeves, not to mention the flirty pleated hem and chic beaded necklace. From Companions in Little Rock.

The sweater dress is making a big statement this season, especially in shades of plum. By Plastic Island, this belted v-neck version accentuates your curves, thanks to the flared skirt and short sleeves, not to mention the flirty pleated hem and chic beaded necklace. From Companions in Little Rock.

…

Read More »

The outdoor fireplace is from Bill Kerr’s Fireplace, and the mantel is crafted of materials from Antique Brick and Block. The outdoor fireplace is from Bill Kerr’s Fireplace, and the mantel is crafted of materials from Antique Brick and Block. Installed by Tony’s Pools and Spas in Greenbrier, the pool is joined by a natural-stone water feature surrounded by lush plantings. The Herrs’ home in The Arbors was built by Mary Jane and features an exterior with a unique brick combination that is echoed in the outdoor fireplace. When it comes to designing a dream home, builder Mary Jane Herr always envisions an incredible view. “I love to have a view of the outdoor living area and pool from every room,” she says, “making it feel like an extension of the inside looking out.” As a builder for the past 12 years, Mary Jane and her husband, Tommy, take their outdoor rooms seriously, especially since they live in The Arbors, a zero lot-line community in the Chenal area of west Little Rock. The couple loves the idea of being surrounded with color in their yard all year long. “That’s the final touch that makes everything so warm and inviting,” says Mary Jane. They carefully chose a mixture of azaleas, loropetalum, holly, crepe myrtles, Japanese maples, lantana and day lilies to make each area pop with seasonal color. “It’s sometimes a challenge,” says Mary Jane, “but it is a lot like living out in the country.” With a view of pine trees that extend all the way across the back of the property, the couple designed the courtyard to take advantage of “every inch of the property lines,” relying on the expertise of Mark Pruss Excavation to carve out a perfect place for the water features that dominate the backyard. While the pool may be the main focal point, the fireplace and covered courtyard create another area where they spend hours entertaining. The brick fireplace is a product of Bill Kerr’s Fireplace, with bricks chosen from Antique Brick and Block in Little Rock, and iron artwork and candle sconces above the mantel complete the elegant ambience of the outdoor space. An elk rug beneath the coffee table sets off the outdoor furniture, which is so important in creating a comfortable outdoor room for Mary Jane. “I feel like the furnishings you put outdoors are just as important as those you choose for the interior of your home,” she says.

Once a spartan corridor to the west, Highway 10 is a bustling business district thanks to continued residential and commercial development. With neighborhoods like Chenal Valley and Bella Rosa Estates expanding to accommodate a growing population, businesses have followed suit. From the recently developed Pleasant Ridge Town Center, filled with loads of shopping and dining options, to various smaller shopping centers and roadside restaurants and shops, Highway 10 has plenty to offer residents and visitors alike.

SHOP

ARKANSAS GARDEN CENTER & NURSERY
15603 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-9933
Beautify your lawn and garden with help from the pros at Arkansas Garden Center & Nursery. You’ll find plenty of in-stock plants, trees, shrubs and flowers in the greenhouse, as well as lots of gardening accessories.

BEYOND COTTON
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-221-1539
At the second location of this Little Rock favorite, you’ll find apparel from labels like Dolan and Thorn, as well as great bags, shoes and jewelry.

BURNETT INTERIORS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-228-5688
Interior designer Ken Burnett’s storefront, Burnett Interiors, offers a well-edited selection of classic and traditional furnishings and accessories, from art and lighting to decorative accents.

COMPANIONS
14810 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-8484
Whether you’re dressing up or dressing down, Companions has fashion-forward looks for any occasion. With apparel from Trina Turk, Ted Baker, Parameter and Paige Premium Denim, as well as amazing accessories, you’ll have no trouble finding your new favorite outfit.

CUPCAKES & CATERPILLARS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-224-4747
Featuring apparel for infant and toddler boys and infant to size 7-10 girls, you’ll find clothing by Haute Baby, Cach Cach, Mulberribush, Kate Mack and more, as well as shoes, accessories, toys, books and gifts.

DAVID CLAIBOURNE, LTD.
14901 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-3400
With a 46,000-square-foot showroom, you’ll want to set aside plenty of time to explore the offerings at David Claibourne, Ltd. This award-winning decorative market is filled with furniture for every room in the house, as well as antiques, lighting, art and decorative accessories, all displayed in room-like settings.

FAUX PAS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-716-2548
At their newly opened second location, Faux Pas stocks the most fabulous jewelry from names like G. Spinelli, Majorica pearls, Kenneth Jay Lane, Maya, Patrice and Brighton, as well as handbags from Mary Frances and Tano.

FREDDIE’S PRINTING & STATIONERY
14710 Cantrell Rd., Ste. 13A, 501-664-9444
From custom creations to boxed invitations, thank you notes and photo albums, you’ll find everything you need for your special event at Freddie’s.

FROCK N SOLE
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-228-8885
One of the newest additions to the Pleasant Ridge Town Center, this shop’s name says it all. With absolutely adorable dresses and separates from hip names like Plenty by Tracy Reese, Frock N Sole can outfit you for a fab night on the town.

FRONTIERS ADVENTURE OUTFITTERS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-227-4157
Whether you’re fly-fishing, hiking, camping or just exploring, you’ll find all the necessary gear at Frontiers Adventure Outfitters. With brands like Merrell, Orvis, Marmot, Mountain Khakis, Patagonia and more for men and women, you’ll be well-equipped for your next adventure.

GLO LIMITED
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-224-8222
Treat yourself to a facial or one of their other pampering services, then stock up on products from top hair care, skin care and cosmetic brands, including Bare Escentuals, Chantecaille, Philosophy and many more.

THE GOOD EARTH
15601 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-4666
Boasting five beautiful acres filled with trees, plants, shrubs and flowers. The Good Earth Garden Center has been serving Arkansas green thumbs for more than 25 years. You’ll also find great gifts for the gardener and treats for feathered friends.

INDIGO HOME
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-5550
Specializing in Asian antiques, Indigo Home hand-selects items from China, India, Mongolia, Tibet, Vietnam and the Philippines, from large furnishings to decorative accessories and art.

INTERIOR EXPRESSIONS
14810 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-9982
Traditional furnishings, decorative accessories, lighting and art are just a few of the offerings here, as well as complete interior design services.

I.O. METRO
12911 Cantrell Rd., 501-217-0300
You’ll find a wide array of eclectic furnishings and accessories at I.O. Metro. Featuring imports from 14 countries, I.O. Metro always has something different, and you’re certain to find a new accent for your home.

NIA-JA’S
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-217-4007
For trendy duds for women and children, look no further than Nia-Ja’s. Labels like Ed Hardy, BCBG Girls and A.B.S. dominate the racks, and you’ll also find cool jewelry, bags and belts.

M2 GALLERY
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-6257
New to the Little Rock arts scene, M2 Gallery boasts a wonderful collection of works from Arkansas artists like Nathan Beatty, Jason Gammel, V.L. Cox, Amy Laser, Ruben Morawicki, Cathy Burns and Gail Stoops, as well as custom framing services.

MINX
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-223-8879
For the best in high fashion, look no further than Minx. An amazing selection of apparel from world-renowned designers like Zac Posen, Vivienne Westwood, Anna Sui, Helmut Lang and Development and accessories from Botkier and Tracy Reese create a luxe shopping experience.

MOLLY’S PAPERIE
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-217-8900
Create fabulous personalized stationery at Molly’s Paperie’s second Little Rock location. From Kate Spade note cards to invitations, as well as unique gifts, you’ll find everything you need for your correspondence needs.

SALON DEVAL
8201 Ranch Blvd., 501-868-3076
Treat yourself to a pampering day at Salon DeVal. Indulge in a spa manicure and pedicure, and let the stylists transform your look with a sleek new cut or color.

THE SASSY STORK
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-661-5151
From jeans and tees to formal attire, enjoy your pregnancy in style! The Sassy Stork carries haute maternity clothes from Japanese Weekend, Maternal America, Hot Slings, Citizens of Humanity and  Paper Denim and Cloth, as well as plenty of accessories and nursing essentials.

SCARLET
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-223-8585
For the young and hip, Scarlet has all the latest trends from the hottest brands, including Tsubi, Rachael Pally, True Religion, Rock & Republic, Tart, La Rok and Rebel Yell.

T. LAMARR INTERIORS & FINE ART
5501 Ranch Dr., Ste. 2, 501-868-9882
Interior designer Tobi Fairley’s storefront offers a sampling of furnishings and accessories available from the designer, while the adjoining art gallery features works from Arkansas artists like Ashley Saer, Arden Boyce, Virginia McKimmey, Shelia Cotton, Laura Laser and more.

TUCK & COVER
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-8825
Treat your little one with custom bedding, draperies, decorative accessories, gifts and more from this delightful and imaginative shop.

VESTA’S
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-375-7820
Whether you’re shopping for a stylish new outfit, luxurious bedding, home accessories, unique jewelry, hip handbags or gifts, Vesta’s always has exactly what you’re looking for.

WARREN’S
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-3515
Your feet will love you for taking them to Warren’s. Packed with amazing shoes in every style, you’re certain to have a spring in your step after a trip to this popular boutique..

DINE

BARE BONES BBQ
5501 Ranch Rd., Ste. 4, 501-868-7427
For ribs, sandwiches and all the trimmings, Bare Bones BBQ can’t be beat for lunch and dinner.

BLUE CAKE COMPANY
14710 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-7771
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to the Blue Cake Company, where cakes, cupcakes, petit fours, pies, cookies and more are all made from scratch.

CAPERS
14502 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-7600
Whether you go for lunch or dinner, Capers is certain to treat your taste buds. Seasonal menus include perennial favorites such as the confetti dip and Arkansas’ Best Salad, as well as classic entrées like herb-crusted tilapia, peach-glazed pork tenderloin and rack of lamb. Be sure to check out the Market at Capers for take-home versions of menu superstars.

CATFISH CITY & BBQ GRILL
14800 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-7171
As the name implies, Catfish City & BBQ Grill’s west Little Rock location has plenty of catfish combinations, and much more. A full menu offers appetizers like fried mushrooms, onion rings and grilled shrimp, and entrées like catfish and shrimp combos, chicken, steaks, burgers, frog legs and lots of barbecue options.

CREW
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-223-3553
Upscale dining in a relaxed atmosphere is the name of the game at Crew, where lunch and dinner are always packed. From quesadillas and fries to steaks and pasta dishes, you’ll enjoy the offerings at Crew.

IMAGINE, A RESTAURANT
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, Ste. 917, 501-801-5530
Using fresh, local ingredients, the team at Imagine creates spectacular pasta and seafood dishes, as well as wonderful appetizers, chicken entrées and steaks. Open for lunch, dinner and brunch, Imagine also has a vast wine list.

IZZY’S
5601 Ranch Dr., 501-868-4311
Boasting a warm, family friendly atmosphere, Izzy’s offers awesome tamales, brick-oven pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, pasta and salads, and their large menu promises something for everyone.

…

Read More »

The paprika-hued accents of this place setting continue the Asian influence found throughout the former congressman’s residence.

A soothing color palette of soft, seafoam gray walls and lightly finished cabinets creates a relaxing vibe in th The paprika-hued accents of this place setting continue the Asian influence found throughout the former congressman’s residence. A soothing color palette of soft, seafoam gray walls and lightly finished cabinets creates a relaxing vibe in this bathroom. It was the view that first attracted former United States Congressman John Paul Hammerschmidt to his condo in the 300 Third Tower in downtown Little Rock. From his east-facing abode, he can see it all—the Little Rock National Airport, North Little Rock, the River Market, Heifer International, the Cox Building, Acxiom and the First Security Building. For a man who was the ranking Republican on the Public Works and Transportation Committee in Congress, this stunning condominium’s location allows him to take it all in—planes, autos, trains, trucks, buses, trolleys, and river-going vessels. It’s a transportation man’s dream. Since the view could not be improved upon, only the interior design of the condominium required professional expertise. John called on designer Kay Howell to assume the duties of project manager and interior specialist. “Since Mr. Hammerschmidt prefers a natural color palette,” says Kay,  “I chose a wall color of soft, sea-foam gray that complements the light sea-foam gray stain of the kitchen cabinets and the dark hardwood floors throughout the condominium.” The former congressman’s preference for leather furniture was softened with accessories, various species of plants and custom-designed area rugs that add texture to the space. “I really wanted the accessories to represent memories from his life, and to have special significance to him,” adds Kay. Antique clay and gauze elephants, representative of the owner’s political affiliation, have special places in the dark-stained bookcases by the fireplace. A paprika-hued, beaded Tibetan ceremonial helmet stands at attention on the other side as a reminder of John’s many flights over the Himalayas during World War II as a highly decorated combat pilot in the Army Air Corp. Art also plays an important role in the decorating scheme chosen for the residence. A color photograph by Tim Ernst of the John Paul Hammerschmidt Waterfall on the Buffalo River, a gift to the congressman for initiating legislation that created the Buffalo River National Park, hangs in a prominent spot. Other Arkansas artists represented in the condominium include a brightly colored abstract in oil titled Past Tense by architect and artist Marc Hatfield. Yellow Line on Pavement, by Pat Larsen of Conway, hangs above the living room fireplace. A digital painting of a rock formation on the Cecil River in north Arkansas, created by architect and photographer Steve Grisham of Little Rock, hangs on a kitchen wall overlooking the granite bar. Even the custom-designed wool rugs in the living room are reminders of John’s political roots—embellished with patterns of flowing water, reminding the owner of Crooked Creek, which runs through the center of Harrison where he lived as a child and young adult working as the third generation in the Hammerschmidt Lumber Company. “This project was such a pleasure for me,” says Kay. “I felt like I was putting Mr. Hammerschmidt’s memories into tangible forms, reminiscent of his meaningful life of service to others and to his country.”

Being involved in the planning stages of the condo’s construction, the Lees were able to implement architectural details like the arched doorways and built-ins found in nearly every room. Being involved in the planning stages of the condo’s construction, the Lees were able to implement architectural details like the arched doorways and built-ins found in nearly every room. Several years ago, Fayetteville residents Hannah and Greg Lee began thinking about downsizing from their home on 40 acres north of town, but they were looking for something very special. “In planning for retirement we wanted to free ourselves of the responsibilities that go with a larger home, pool and acreage,” says Hannah. When the opportunity arose to design and build a condo in the new One East Center building on the square, developed by Richard Alexander, John Knock and Rob Merry-Ship and marketed by Alexander, Merry-Ship and Alt Real Estate Group, they knew they had found their ideal home. “As lifelong residents of Fayetteville, we love the vitality of the square, the downtown area and Dickson Street,” she continues. Because the Lees became involved in the project’s initial stages, purchasing one of the first of six condos in the building, they were able to guide the interior construction, from the placement of electrical outlets to the layout of rooms and their orientation in the building, which was designed by Polk Stanley Rowland Curzon Porter Architects and built by Jess Eoff of Innovative Design and Construction. “Hannah and I climbed to the top of the building to look at the different views before construction even started,” says interior designer Cecily Brawner, who worked with the Lees on their previous home as well. Although the idea of vertical living was immensely appealing to the Lees, they still wanted a very warm, traditional environment for the interior. “I think a lot of people expect something much more contemporary for a condo,” Cecily says. “But it’s very warm, inviting and comfortable and reflects so much of Greg’s and Hannah’s personalities.” Cecily and Hannah planned the home around many of the Lees’ treasured furnishings and artwork from their previous home, including their collection of Barry Thomas paintings and a trio of Italian Murano glass chandeliers as their inspiration. The fantastic views afforded by the condo’s location were also a major consideration in both the layout and design. Cabinetry and other fixed elements were confined to interior walls, allowing windows to surround the exterior. Framed by draperies custom designed by Interior Fabrics and Design in Fayetteville, the windows allow a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area, which contributed greatly to the home’s color scheme. “A lot of the colors reflect the views and the sunset,” Cecily says, “from yellows and browns to sky blues and warm reds.” In addition, the terrace overlooking the square, designed by exterior designer Daniel Keeley with DK Design of Fayetteville, becomes an additional living area almost year round, thanks to comfortable areas for dining and lounging, as well as an outdoor fireplace. Combined with architectural details like beautiful mantels and arches in nearly every room, this rich palette gives the space a Tuscan feel, which is only magnified by the luxurious materials employed throughout the space. Warm walnut and stone floors run throughout the public areas, and each room is accessed through arched hand-hewn walnut doors made by Grand Openings Doors in Rogers. “Our main goal was to create a feeling of warmth, comfort and openness that’s conducive to entertaining,” Hannah says. Although the condo is a bit less than 3,000 square feet, intelligent planning allows plenty of space to welcome the Lees’ two grown children, Jud and Corie, and their families, as well as friends. Whether they gather in the walnut-paneled study, on the terrace or around the long dining table, there’s certain to be much laughter and conversation filling this very special home. “We are so happy living here,” Hannah says. “The condo lifestyle has more than met our expectations.”

The month of February is often associated with love and Valentine’s Day. Appropriately, the American Heart Association of Arkansas schedules their Heart Ball gala during this heart-focused time.

…

Read More »

The Moodys’ hallway boasts a warm color palette with interesting textures thanks to the light fixtures, draperies and antique furnishings.

Builder John Williams of JW Associates created a magnificent kitchen in the Hensley home he shares with his wife Jackie and their two children, which was featured in the October “Architects’ & Builders’ Homes” issue. Custom floor-to-ceiling maple cabinets, created by Arkansas Millworks, offer plenty of storage, and the light finish is balanced with granite countertops, a travertine backsplash, nickel fixtures and stainless-steel appliances, maintaining the overall warmth and welcoming feeling of the rest of the home. Bar seating offers a casual spot for dining. Photo by Nancy Nolan

Just one of the amazing eco-friendly spaces in designer and owner of Favorite Things Julie Grisham’s Little Rock home, which she shares with her architect husband Steve, the kitchen won second runner up in Southern Accents’ ASID competition for kitchen of the year, and was featured in our June “Designers’ Own Homes” issue. Julie repurposed the granite top of their old dining table for the island so as not to waste materials, and instead of expanding the bamboo floors from the rest of the home into the kitchen, the designer opted for sheet vinyl from Armstrong, which has the look of stained concrete but is easier to care for and provides more cushioning underfoot. Low-voltage pendant and spot-lighting accents the sleek black cabinetry and offers just the right amount of artificial light for this space. Photo by Nancy Nolan

The focal point of Margaret and Larry Combs’ El Dorado loft—which was featured in our April “Vertical Living” issue, is definitely the kitchen, which is outfitted with sleek blue cabinetry from Snaidero. While one side of the kitchen features custom panels to blend the refrigerator into the wall of brilliant blue cabinets, the opposite boasts frosted-glass cabinets that span the cooktop and sink area. The island is topped with Blue Pearl granite that was installed by Terry Gheta, and the LEM barstools with light beechwood seats, designed by Shin and Tomoka Azumi, add a contemporary spot for casual dining. Photo by Janet Warlick

Showcased in our September “The Gracious Life” issue, the kitchen in Jane Prince’s Jonesboro home—which was remodeled by Cathy and Gary Pursell of Creative Heights Partners in Little Rock—combines French and Spanish-Colonial elements for a space that’s rustic and open for entertaining a crowd. An expansive center island offers loads of storage thanks to drawers, cabinets and open shelving, while the butcher-block and stone surfaces provide prep and serving space. Exposed ceiling beams made from reclaimed wood and architectural elements implemented into the window design above the sink flow seamlessly with the more modern look of the stainless-steel appliances. Photo by Janet Warlick

…

Read More »