Our July issue featured the story behind Hannah’s Bananas, a Little Rock-based dipped-banana operation dreamed up by Hannah Thomas. Here, she shares her recipe for her gluten-free banana bread—a baked treat that will please the palate year-round.
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Art of Home: Coming Nov. 8-9 to Northwest Arkansas
At Home in Arkansas is excited to partner with MIXD Gallery to present Art of Home, the first in what we hope will be an annual tradition for lovers of both art and design in Northwest Arkansas. Inspired by MIXD Gallery’s By Design exhibit, Art of Home showcases how life is enriched when you surround yourself with meaningful pieces. Collections are not reserved for gallery walls—they belong where we live, gather, celebrate, and unwind.
To this end, the tour offers the chance to step into four inspiring homes spanning Fayetteville and Bentonville, each showcasing a unique approach to living with art. All four homes are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, November 8-9. Tours are self-guided—enjoy them all in one day, or stretch it into a weekend with friends, lunch, and shopping along the way.
In addition to the opportunity to tour these vibrant, art-filled homes, your ticket supports the work of New Beginnings, a bridge housing community in Fayetteville that cares for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. Because of your purchase, we’re able to donate a portion of proceeds from Art of Home to help continue their mission of ending chronic homelessness in Northwest Arkansas.
Ready to join us? Reserve your ticket. RSVP on Facebook. Invite your friends. We’ll see you at Art of Home.
From Little Rock to Florida’s Scenic 30A: How an Arkansas Native Built a $100M Luxury Real Estate Business at the Beach
Sponsored Content
For many Arkansans, Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A is more than just a vacation spot—it’s a beloved destination where family traditions are made year after year. For Allison Freeman, a 30A luxury real estate agent with The Premier Property Group, it became the stage for a remarkable career leap: in just a few short years, she went from newcomer to 30A’s beaches to selling over $100 million in luxury homes.
Allison grew up in Little Rock with real estate in her DNA. Her grandmother, Norma Gibson, co-owned Ward-Gibson Realty, and her grandfather, “Gibby” Gibson, built many of the homes that still stand in Little Rock’s most established neighborhoods. “My grandfather built much of Midtown and a lot in Pleasant Valley, and one of his homes is on the National Register of Historic Places,” Allison says. “I grew up surrounded by conversations about real estate, construction, and community. It is in my blood.”
Allison’s grandmother, Norma Gibson, at her desk at her real estate office
A Leap of Faith to 30A
In early 2019, Allison and her husband, Keith—also an Arkansas native—moved to Florida’s Scenic 30A coastline, thinking it might be a quieter chapter in life. But when the pandemic hit, Florida’s real estate market exploded. Allison combined her love for people, her sharp instinct for real estate, and her business expertise to help other people make their dreams of life on the coast a reality.
She dove headfirst into learning every detail of the 30A real estate market—from the bustling streets of Seaside and Rosemary Beach to the hidden neighborhoods with untapped investment potential. Her hard work and hustle paid off: In just a few years, she’s built a business most agents would spend decades achieving.
Allison and Keith Freeman
Helping Arkansans Buy on 30A
Many of Allison’s clients have spent years vacationing along the Gulf. Now, they’re ready to purchase a piece of 30A for themselves—whether it’s a second home, a vacation rental, or a future retirement property. “I know their journey because I’ve lived it,” Allison says. “Buying on 30A is about more than a home—it’s about embracing a coastal lifestyle.”
More Than Just a Realtor
As a luxury real estate agent with The Premier Property Group, Allison Freeman’s expertise extends well beyond contracts and closings. She and Keith have personally owned and managed short-term rentals, giving her firsthand insight into what makes a property successful in the rental market. She’s also built a loyal social media following where she shares market trends, home tours, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on 30A.
Her website, allison30arealtor.com, is a resource for anyone considering buying or selling on Scenic 30A. It features curated listings, detailed market reports, and expert advice for navigating the area’s unique luxury market.
Arkansas Roots, 30A Success
While Allison Freeman now calls 30A home, her Arkansas roots remain strong. She credits her work ethic, commitment to clients, and love for community to her upbringing in Little Rock. “I think that’s why I connect so well with clients from back home,” she says. “We share the same values—and the same love for this incredible stretch of coastline.”
From the tree-lined neighborhoods of Little Rock to the sugar-white beaches of Scenic 30A, Allison’s story is a testament to what’s possible when vision meets opportunity—and how fast that opportunity can turn into success.
Learn more about Allison’s journey, explore the latest 30A real estate trends, and view current listings at allison30arealtor.com.
Allison Freeman is a licensed luxury real estate agent with The Premier Property Group along Florida’s Scenic 30A. She specializes in helping clients buy, sell, and invest in high-end coastal properties, including second homes and short-term rentals. With over $100 million in closed sales and a deep understanding of both Arkansas buyers and the 30A market, Allison offers a unique perspective that blends Southern hospitality with expert market knowledge. Learn more at allison30arealtor.com.
Where Collectors Meet Creators
Curate your collection with a visit to AMFA’s Art Market | Sponsored Content
Pieces by three anticipated artists from AMFA’s Art Market (clockwise from left): Daniella Napolitano, Sandra Sell, and Guiteau Lanoue.
Since opening in 2023, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts has elevated Little Rock’s cultural scene with world-class exhibitions and programming that appeals to all the senses. Now, they’re expanding that impact with their first-ever Art Market, a shopping experience that invites patrons to grow their fine art collections by providing access to creatives from around the region. “We consistently heard from guests that they enjoyed discovering new artists and collecting art as a form of inspiration and self-expression,” says executive director Dr. Victoria Ramirez. “AMFA’s Museum Store has done a phenomenal job fulfilling this need in the community, but we wanted to expand that experience.”
“Our intention is to grow the AMFA Art Market year-over-year and become an annual destination for anyone in our region who values art and community.”
—Dr. Victoria Ramirez, Executive Director for the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
The Art Market will take over the museum September 4-7 with booths representing artists from neighboring states and beyond. “The Windgate Art School will also host a rotation of emerging Arkansas artists throughout the weekend, several of whom are Windgate Art School instructors,” Dr. Ramirez says. Artists will be present at their booths to connect with guests and answer questions about their processes and visions, making for an art-buying experience unlike any other. Additionally, expect a special menu from Park Grill, food and beverages in the Cultural Living Room, and a schedule of lectures from local gallery owners on topics like framing fine art, having pieces appraised, and getting your collection started. After kicking off with receptions for members and corporate partners, the main event September 6-7 is free and open to the public. Find out more about the Art Market at arkmfa.org.
Photo (Sandra Sell) by Robyn Horn. All images courtesy of artists.
Ask the Designer: Favorite Arkansas Artists
In our August 2025 issue’s “Trendsetters” section, we asked Arkansas designers to share some of their favorite names in the local art scene. Here are the artists currently inspiring the state’s interior designers
Flora Saldivar in her home studio
“We have fallen in love with the work of local artist Flora Saldivar, a Mexican-American abstract painter. We love how she uses vibrant colors and movement. The soft edges of her ‘bleeding colors’ technique bring an approachability to her abstract visuals. We find her work very easy to incorporate into a variety of spaces and designs.” —Krista Couch and Heidi Burks, KH Collaborative
“Velesero! I’m loving his pieces right now. We have several of his in the store, and I’d take one home right now if I could! I love the luminescence of the silver leaf that comes through and the subject matter.” —Casey Sarkin, Casey Sarkin Design
“I’m a big fan of Leah Pollock’s ceramic sculptures—they have an otherworldly elegance to them that feels organic and rooted to the earth. I’ve visited her studio in Bella Vista, know her personally, and love to support her work.” —Betsy Soos, Proximity Interior Design
“William McNamara. I am a big fan of watercolor, and his Buffalo River paintings are amazing! —Stacy Sheid Epps, Stacy Sheid Interiors
Abstract flower painting by Zac Woodiel. Design by Providence Design
“Zac Woodiel, of course! I love his art (which can be purchased at Providence), but not only is Zac a talented artist, he’s impossible not to love as a person.” —Kimberly Mannis, Providence Design
“There are so many fantastic Arkansas artists! Among my faves are Katherine Strause, Catherine Rodgers, Bryan Frazier, Sharon Simmons, Milkdadd, Lisa Krannichfeld, Patrick Phillips, and Barry Thomas—I could never select just one! They all have different styles, different vibes, different mediums, and all create pieces with soul.” —Mara Malcolm, Lamb’s Interior Design
Art by Lori DeYmaz. Design by Art of Design
“Lori DeYmaz is an incredibly gifted artist who we are always proud to work with. Her pieces instantly bring happiness and dimension into any room. I also love any work that Barry Thomas creates. His paintings bring the beauty of Arkansas into the home to enjoy every day.” —Paula Storey, Design1
“Joëlle Storet of Fayetteville. I’m in awe of her mural featuring Fayetteville landmarks and historical figures along Nelson Hackett Boulevard.” —Andrea Cornwell, iSpace Designers
“I have been working with Harrington & Meyers Woodworking on some special custom pieces for my projects, and those guys blow me away every time. Their attention to detail and dedication to their craft is inspiring.” —Marianna O’Dea, O’Dea Studios Interior Design
Art by Ashley Saer. Design by B. Interiors
“I love Ashley Saer. She does great watercolors and house paintings; plus, her colors are amazing.” —Chandler Bailey, B. Interiors
“With the growth of Northwest Arkansas and the new Walmart campus, there is an ever-evolving array of murals, sculpture and local boutique galleries popping all over the area—we can’t name just one! But we are inspired by and love how unique each one of the artist’s styles are.” —Mary Beth Williams, Warrior Designs
“Sean Shrum. We love his work and have used it in several of our favorite projects.” —Kimberly Harper, Harper Howey Interiors
Lisa Krannichfeld in her studio
“Lisa Krannichfeld is an artist that we have admired for a long time. We love the combinations of color and pattern she uses with her subject matter. We love that her artwork empowers women and creates beauty on bland spans of building facades; her art brings life with vibrancy.” —Stacey Breezel, Shine Interior Design Studio
“Arden Boyce is an artist from my hometown that I’ve always loved and followed. It’s been a joy to incorporate her artwork into our interior designs. Her soft brush strokes, vibrant color palette and subject matter transform you to a memorable place and time.” —Natalie Biles, Shine Interior Design Studio
Art by Barry Thomas. Design by Bear Hill Interiors
“Buddy Whitlock. He’s a local boy (from Des Arc!) and really a hard worker and so talented. I have his very first piece of art. I also love Barry Thomas because of his ability to capture the outdoors.” —Paul Guess, Guess & Company
“Jeff McKay. We love his use of color in his pieces, and being in The Natural State, we love how he highlights the outdoors and brings them to life!” —Studio West Interiors
“Ellen Hobgood! I have loved her from the start. Everyone should have one of her ‘Santa Claus’ paintings in their home. After all, a Santa hanging in your home brings you luck!” —Dana Parker-Gilbert, Simply Charming Window Works
Tanya Sweetin with a piece of her art
“I have a couple: Emily Cobb and Tanya Sweetin. They both do fantastic work. They have timeless art.” —Miguel Newberg, M.N’Teriors
“My favorite Arkansas artist would have to be Andrew Bruckman. I admire his knowledge of art and the complexity of his work. He paints with such depth and emotion.” —Jayson Cain, Jayson Cain Interiors
“Mark Jackson at Velesero. We are really drawn to Mark’s photography of seemingly ordinary life experiences yet the layers he applies to the photograph stop you in your tracks. One cannot simply glance and move on; you are drawn into the piece. Seeking and recognizing beauty in our immediate surroundings is essentially what our entire ethos is at Lefler Teeter Designs and Mark’s work envelopes that for us.” —Meghan Teeter and Erin Lefler, Lefler Teeter Designs
“There are so many wonderful local artists, but one of my favorites is Heike Talbert. Her artwork instantly elevates a room.” —Lisa Stagg, LJ Interiors
Required Reading
Add them to your coffee table stack, your bookshelves, or your to-read list. These are the forthcoming design book releases we can’t wait to dive into
Written by Kathryn O’Shea-Evans (whose name you might recognize from previous bylines in At Home in Arkansas), Merry & Chic: Your Most Dazzling Christmas Ever is a guide to creating a spectacular holiday celebration. The book shares advice from design professionals (including another familiar name, Little Rock’s Jonathan Parkey), classic holiday recipes, and even a spirited playlist. Available August 5 from Gibbs Smith.
Rebecca Atwood, author of Living with Pattern and Living with Color, releases her third book, The Harmonious Home: Designing Peaceful, Personal Spaces Inspired by Nature. Here, Atwood invites readers to look to different landscapes (for example, oceans and forests) for inspiration in the colors, textures, and materials used to create a home. Available August 26 from Clarkson Potter.
Design Reimagined: A Fresh and Colorful Take on Timeless Rooms is the second release by Corey Damen Jenkins, whose use of rich color and classic architecture has made him a recent design world darling. Focusing on 10 projects across the country, Jenkins’ maximalism-meets-new traditionalism is evident on every page. Available September 2 from Rizzoli.
Written by Giles Kime, the executive editor of Country Life magazine, Sims Hilditch: Beautifully British Interiors features the collected, comfortably layered work of the firm founded by Emma Sims-Hilditch. Find inspiration for the English country house look of today, mixing new and traditional styles that optimize functionality for 21st century living. Available September 9 from Rizzoli.
Tradition Made New: Houses with a Sense of Soul and History is the debut tome from Tim Adams, principal of T.S. Adams Studio Architects in Atlanta. Growing up with a sketchbook in hand, Adams has long been drawn to the shape and form of structures, and Tradition Made New showcases his mastery of the craft. Available September 9 from Rizzoli.
In Home Again: A Return to Gracious Interiors, Southern design icon James T. Farmer brings his warm and refined traditional style to cottages and estates across the country. Captured in stunning photography by Emily Followill, these houses remind readers that the very best homes tell a story. Available September 9 from Gibbs Smith.
Comforts of Home: Tailor-Made, Family-Friendly Interiors That Feel Just Right is the second book from Jacksonville, Florida-based designer Andrew Howard. A master of using bold patterns and bright colors to create happy interiors, Howard’s passion for his work shines through in photography by Noe DeWitt and Eric Piasecki. Available September 9 from Abrams Books.
In Southern Sensibility, designer Edith-Anne Duncan captures the essence of Southern style: sophisticated yet casual interiors with respect for history and a modern twist. Penned with the help of our very own managing editor, Tiffany Adams, this book offers a peek into homes that are colorful, curated, and bursting with personality. Available October 14 from Gibbs Smith.
Originally published in the August 2025 issue of At Home in Arkansas
Quapaw Quarter Association’s 60th Tour of Homes
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Quapaw Quarter Association’s Tour of Homes, an opportunity to step inside some of the most intriguing structures in the Capital City. To shine a light on this year’s Tour of Homes we spoke with Amber Crouch, president of the Quapaw Quarter Association board.
Q: Sixty years of the Tour of Homes—what a landmark year! What makes the 2025 event so special?
A: The Tour of Homes has stood the test of time as one of the region’s most beloved cultural traditions. It’s not just about homes—it’s about legacy, design, and how architecture connects us across generations. The tour offers an unforgettable look into the MacArthur Park Historic District, Little Rock’s oldest residential neighborhood, and a range of architectural styles—from timeless classics to modern expressions—showcase how preservation continues to evolve and inspire. Additionally, this year’s theme, Art & Architecture, embraces the intersection of historic preservation and creative expression—featuring live performances, artistic moments, and a range of styles that reflect Little Rock’s evolution.
Q: In addition to the classic Day Tour available on May 10 and 11, there’s also a special Candlelight Tour & Dinner on May 10. What makes the Candlelight Tour a different experience?
A: Three of the four Candlelight properties are exclusive to the Saturday evening experience, while all four will feature an elevated, immersive atmosphere distinct from the Day Tour. From 5-7 p.m. guests will enjoy champagne stations, food tastings from buzz-worthy local restaurants, live music, and integrated art throughout the tour. The Candlelight lineup also includes a bold contemporary residence, demonstrating how innovative design can complement the historic character of the neighborhood. Afterward, guests will enjoy cocktail hour and a seated dinner at Eastside Scrapyard, and industrial-chic new venue. Tickets are nearly sold out, making this a must for design lovers and preservation enthusiasts alike.
“We’re celebrating 60 years of preservation, storytelling, and community pride.”
—Amber Crouch, QQA board president
Q: Are there any other special events that are a part of the tour?
A: Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 11, is a beloved tradition featuring elegant fare, flowing mimosas, and live music in a welcoming, celebratory setting. It’s a refined finale to an unforgettable weekend. We’re excited about several free events leading up to the tour: Preservation Conversation on Tuesday, April 29, is set to be an engaging evening focused on MacArthur Park’s Historic District Guidelines, featuring insight from local experts and community voices. This takes place in The Mixing Room at The Paint Factory and is free and open to the public. On May 3, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts plays host to a family-friendly day of art-making, design exploration, and hands-on creativity inspired by this year’s Art & Architecture theme.
Q: What do funds raised during the Tour of Homes support?
A: Proceeds from the tour directly support the Quapaw Quarter Association, a nonprofit committed to protecting and promoting the architectural heritage of Little Rock. We champion restoration, advocacy, and education, working to ensure the spaces that shape our city’s identity remain vibrant for generations to come. This tour is where history meets imagination. We’re incredibly proud to carry this tradition into its 60th year—and we invite everyone to see just how alive Little Rock’s past still is.
“It’s not just about saving old buildings. It’s about honoring the stories they hold and ensuring they remain part of the community’s living, breathing fabric.”
—Amber Crouch, QQA board president
The Candlelight Tour & Dinner is almost sold our, and Day Tour tickets are in high demand—so reserve your tickets now at quapaw.com/tickets.
A Literary Gathering Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe
Sponsored Content | By guest contributor Meredith Corning
For those captivated by the brooding allure of Edgar Allan Poe, a literary-inspired tablescape offers a hauntingly beautiful setting, perfect for an October gathering. Event planner and designer Meredith Corning of Meredith Events, known for her immersive and imaginative event designs, brought this vision to life in a Park Hill Historic District home. The project featured a dark yet elegant homage to the iconic Gothic writer.
Designed as a space where intellectuals might gather for a literary circle, the concept behind this photo shoot was to evoke the mystery and romance of Poe’s world. Literary circles, unlike typical book clubs, dive deep into an author’s entire body of work, exploring both their life and creative influences. Meredith Corning envisioned this design as a reflection of such gatherings with a thoughtful, moody setting where every detail would inspire conversation.
Key to the design was the collaboration with several talented collaborators. Jessica Humerick of Citizen’s Den Interiors worked her magic on the home’s existing aesthetic, which was perfect for this particular design. Her use of richly carved dining chairs and a zebra-patterned rug added a quirky, Tim Burton-esque feel to the space. These elements played beautifully with the color palette that Meredith curated using a mix of black, ivory, champagne beige, and metallics, adding layers of visual interest without overwhelming the setting.
For the florals, Rose of Sharon Floral Design Studio created a stunning arrangement that was purposefully kept low to encourage interaction between guests. Dried hydrangeas and yarrow were paired with soft roses in ivory, champagne, and peach hues. The florals’ airy, organic texture softened the darker, Gothic table settings, while the choice of dried elements and muted colors tied back to the theme of decay and time which are recurring motifs in Poe’s work.
The table itself was set with luxurious black velvet placemats, ornate black chargers, and black hammered pottery dishware, all contrasted by gold flatware. Each place setting featured a copy of Classic Tales of Horror by Poe, tied with a black satin ribbon. Delicate linen menus, wrapped in vellum and sealed with black wax and dried gypsophila, sat at each setting alongside matching place cards.
Vibrant Occasions contributed an eerie yet delicious menu, highlighting the Gothic inspiration in every dish. Petite raven-shaped grilled cheese sandwiches paired with a rich tomato bisque, aptly named “The Masque of the Red Death,” delighted the senses, while crystal cordial glasses filled with cherry liqueur provided the perfect blood-red touch to the affair.
Dessert was as detailed as the rest of the design. Velvet Crumb Cakery created oversized petit fours decorated with raven motifs, displayed on plates illustrated with the same iconic bird, a nod to one of Poe’s most famous works, “The Raven”. These delicate creations added a macabre whimsy to the end of the meal. In addition to the raven-adorned petit fours, another decadent dessert displayed named “A Dream Within a Dream Tartlet” was created by Vibrant Occasions. This exquisite dish featured a velvety Japanese purple sweet potato mousse nestled in a delicate, buttery tart shell. The vibrant purple hue of the mousse was a nod to the deep symbolism often associated with Edgar Allan Poe. Purple, representing themes of mystery, melancholy, and the unknown, echoes the moodiness of Poe’s works, where dark beauty and introspection are ever-present.
For the occasion, Meredith Corning dressed as the hostess embracing the spirit of the event by donning a striking black custom suit, paired with black lace polka-dot gloves and an ivory, Elizabethan-style ruffled collar, evoking the elegance of the Renaissance with a modern twist. Jessica Humerick applied Meredith’s makeup, opting for a glamorous approach rather than a Gothic or dark palette. This intentional juxtaposition added sophistication to the otherworldly undertones of the shoot, balancing mystery with beauty. Jamie Lynn Jones styled Meredith’s hair in an intricate updo, blending Renaissance influences with a touch of playful elegance, creating a look that seamlessly complimented the moody yet intellectually-engaging atmosphere of the gathering. Meredith also arranged Weaver Films to capture reels of the setup on film the morning of the photo shoot for her private collection.
Altogether, the design struck a balance between the spooky and the sophisticated, providing a perfect backdrop for a gathering of literary minds or a Halloween-inspired dinner party. Every detail was thoughtfully curated, inviting guests to contemplate both Poe’s world and their own experience of it. The result was a rich, layered environment that felt both otherworldly and inviting, perfect for those seeking inspiration from literature, art, and design.
More to the Menu: A Haunting Affair
In our October 2024 issue, event planner Meredith Corning shared a soirée inspired by the works of poet and short story writer Edgar Allan Poe—perfect for an elevated All Hallow’s Eve affair with fellow bibliophiles. Here, she and Vibrant Occasions Catering share the recipes for their “Raven” Grilled Cheese sandwich and Charcoal Black Bread. Check out our October edition for the full story, including the recipe for “The Masque of the Red Death” Creamy Tomato Bisque.
The Raven Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Shop
2 slices Charcoal Black Bread (see recipe below)
1 slice Muenster cheese
1 slice Swiss cheese
2 tablespoons basil pesto sauce
1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
1 tablespoon butter
Prepare
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Add oil and butter and melt. Dip one side of each slice of bread slices into the oil/butter mixture. Spread the non-buttered side of the bread with the basil pesto sauce and top with cheese. Put the other slice of bread on top, buttered side up, and place in the heated skillet. Cook until cheese is melted and bread is crusty. For the full effect, use a raven-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the sandwich.
Charcoal Black Bread
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5 ½ to 6 cups all-purpose flour, separated
3 tablespoons sugar
4 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
2 teaspoons salt
1 ½ cups water
½ cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons activated charcoal
Prepare
Preheat oven to 400ºF. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with sugar, yeast, and salt, and set aside. Microwave water, milk, and butter until temperature reaches 120ºF. Add to the flour mixture and mix at medium speed for 3 minutes, scraping sides of the bowl as you go. Add 1 cup of flour and activated charcoal and mix for 2 more minutes. Mix in 2 ½ more cups of flour.
Knead dough for 6-8 minutes, using an additional ½ cup of flour, if necessary. Form into a ball, then place in an oiled bowl and cover with a towel for 10 minutes. Roll into a log and place in a greased, deep loaf pan. Cover and allow to double in size, roughly 45 minutes, then bake for 20 minutes.
Once the bread sounds hollow when thumped, run a knife along the sides to release it from the pan.
Read the full story from the October 2024 issue of At Home in Arkansas here.
Quapaw Quarter Association’s 59th Tour of Homes
Every spring, the Quapaw Quarter Association presents its Tour of Homes around this historic district of Little Rock. Ranging from expansive Victorian mansions to Craftsman-style bungalows—and everything in between—these homes tell the story of Arkansas’s capital city through both architectural details and stories of the people who lived there. For the 59th tour, QQA focuses on houses in the West Governor’s Mansion and Dunbar neighborhoods.
General admission tickets are $30 in advance ($40 at the door) and grant access to five properties between 1-5 p.m. May 11-12. At each home, volunteers will help provide information about the house—more of which can be found in the complimentary booklet that guests will receive when they check in for the tour at 2201 S. Arch St.
In addition to the five properties open during afternoon tours, three more will be open for the Candlelight Dinner, a special event on May 11 only. Tickets to this event ($165) include tours of the evening homes from 5-7 p.m. (including a champagne station at each) followed by cocktail hour and dinner at Mosaic Templars Cultural Center.
Purchase general admission tickets here, and see information about various special events, including the Candlelight Dinner, here. Read on for details about some of the exquisite homes you’ll see on this year’s Tour of Homes.
Afternoon homes, available for viewing during general admission:
Francis G. Fulk House
2001 S. Arch Street
Built in 1905, this home was designed by notable Little Rock architect Charles L. Thompson for lawyer Francis Guy Fulk. As with many of Thompson’s designs, the house shows a blend of Colonial Revival and Classical Revival elements. After the house fell into disrepair in the 1920s, it was rescued from deterioration in the mid-1930s by the Davis family, who restored sections of the home and added additional living space at the rear. Subsequent homeowners continued to restore and renovate, creating the beautiful home that exists today.
Grace and Oscar Poe House
2101 S. Arch Street
This house was built in 1919 for local businessman Oscar Poe and his family. The home was designed in the Tudor Revival style with Craftsman-inspired accents. For example, the brick veneer on the first floor with half-timbering, multi-paned windows, and steep roof are all characteristic of the Tudor Revival style, while the shallow roof and tapered stone columns of the front porch are hallmarks of a Craftsman home. While the house was significantly damaged in the 1999 tornado, current owners have worked to renovate and restore the home over recent years.
Chester Nests
“Chester Nests” refers to four historic homes that make up the property at the southwest corner of West Charles Bussey Avenue and South Chester Street. The collection includes a shotgun house and a duplex facing Chester Street and two simple folk Victorian cottages facing Charles Bussey (pictured). Three of the homes were constructed around 1900, while the duplex is estimated to have been built around 1940. Today, these homes have been painted bright colors and converted into a collection of short-term rental properties.
Smith Cottage
610 West Daisy L Gatson Bates Drive
Also known as the Akers-Smith Cottage, this early example of the Queen Anne style was built in the mid-1880s. Early residents of the home included the sexton of Mount Holly Cemetery. In 1890, Charles and Elsie Smith purchased the property; by 1918, Smith sold the property to the Joseph Brown family. At some point in the early 1900s, the original large attic space was converted into living space, and for several years the upstairs was rented out as a small three-room apartment.
Ray House
2111 Cross Street
Completed around 1916, this residence was home to Mary Lee McCrary Ray, a pioneer in education for African Americans, and her husband, Harvey Cincinnatus Ray. After Mary died in 1934, Harvey was remarried to Julia Ada Miller; their daughter, Gloria Ray, was one of the Little Rock Nine who would desegregate Little Rock Central High School in 1957. The family remained in residence through the 1970s. Current owners have undertaken a major restoration and renovation project to bring this home back to life.
Evening homes, available for viewing with a ticket to the Candlelight Dinner only:
Gibb–Altheimer House
1801 S. Arch Street
Completed in 1906, this home was designed by architect Frank Gibb as his personal residence. The house is dominated by the large Classical Revival-style portico that faces Arch Street, while the actual main entrance to the house is at the side of the house facing 18th Street. The home was sold in 1911 to the Altheimer family; since then, it has been cared for through several owners and is still an open and inviting place for guests to gather.
Safferstone House
2205 S. Arch Street
This Mission Revival-style house was designed in 1920 by local architects Sanders and Ginocchio for Israel L. Safferstone and his wife, Eva. Construction was completed in 1922, and Safferstone and his family continued to live in the home until 1963. The house features a covered porch with dramatic arched entryways, a stucco exterior, and a striking clay tile roof. Inside, the home features original woodwork, classic Craftsman-style built-in cabinets, and a cozy living space in the original attic of the home.
Boyle House
2020 S. Arch Street
In 1921, Sterling Scott commissioned architects Thomas Harding and Charles Thompson to design this house. Before it was completed, Scott sold the property to John and Snow Boyle, who completed the project in 1922 with alterations to the original architects’ plans. The house is a mix of styles, with its Craftsman-style covered porch and exposed rafter tails, gable timbers characteristic of the Tudor Revival style, and elaborate stone entry portal, which is more characteristic of European Revival styles. After years of use as a boarding house, the McGowan family restored the home to its original grandeur in the 1980s.
Find out more about the 2024 Tour of Homes and purchase tickets at quapaw.com.
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