Discover: Northwest Arkansas

July 25, 2014 by ark_admin

An attractive area of rapid growth and abounding culture, Northwest Arkansas is home to several thriving downtown areas with expert design resources, an eclectic art scene, innovative eateries, and unrivaled boutiques. Join us in discovering this dynamic region.

EATS & SWEETS

To fuel up before you start your adventure, there’s no better spot to snag a sweet breakfast than Fayetteville’s own Rick’s Bakery. Step inside, and Razorback-themed décor greets you along with the comforting scent of fresh-baked goods. You’ll feel inexplicably drawn to the rows of donuts, muffins, bagels, and pastries. Be sure to purchase a few petit fours for the road. The bakery also creates fabulous wedding and specialty cakes and offers delicious salads and sandwiches for lunch.

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Discover Hot Springs

June 13, 2014 by ark_admin

Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, this lakeside town may conjure up thoughts of historic bathhouses or horse racing at Oaklawn Park, but it also offers some of our favorite resources for the home, plus restaurants and one-of-a-kind boutiques. Follow along for our top places to visit in the Spa City.

EATS & SWEETS

Start your adventure with breakfast at The Pancake Shop, one of the oldest family-owned and -operated restaurants in the state. Take your pick of favorite items, all made daily. Since it’s a local hot spot, you may have to wait—but even this is a treat. You’ll be directed next door to The Savory Pantry, their specialty food store, which offers premium ingredients and delicacies in the shop and online. Sip a cup of coffee or browse the selection of jams, oils, and mixes while you wait.

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Discover Little Rock

June 2, 2014 by ark_admin

As the central point and capital city of our state, Little Rock is home to a wide variety of interior and exterior design resources and stores, locally owned clothing and gift boutiques, and delicious dining establishments. Follow along as we discover new stops and cherish beloved favorites in the metro area.

EATS & SWEETS

Start your adventure with a breakfast bite at Rosalia’s Family Bakery, located on Kavanaugh Boulveard. Have the croissant you’ve been craving with a chai tea latte. When you build up your appetite again, we recommend lunch at Boulevard Bread Company, which has several locations around the city and serves a mix of fresh salads and sandwiches, as well as charcuterie, artisan cheeses, and other local products. Keep your eyes peeled for their baked sweets, too.
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Discover: Conway

April 21, 2014 by ark_admin

For the inaugural edition of our new “Discover” feature, the At Home team traveled just thirty minutes from our office to Conway. Filled with a mix of modern boutiques, quaint antique and home décor shops, and delightful eateries, this city has something for everyone. Follow along to experience it as the natives do.

EATS & SWEETS While they may be known for their “scratch-made” cheese dip, we suggest breakfast at Stoby’s. This cozy Conway staple is a favorite of local college kids and families alike. Try the thick, warm biscuits, colossal cinnamon rolls or pink strawberry pancakes topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. By your second cup of coffee, you’ll feel right at home.

While you’re in the neighborhood, walk across the back parking lot to PattiCakes Bakery where the sugary scents of coconut meringue pie, red velvet cupcakes, and cake pops are enough to tempt any sweet tooth. The bakery devotes itself to serving desserts reminiscent of a childhood trip to grandma’s house. Patti herself will hand you a cupcake catered to your tastes (peanut butter chocolate, perhaps?) in a tiny Chinese takeout box. Never mind that it’s only 10 a.m., you can always save it for an afternoon snack.

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Out & About: Searcy to Heber Springs

March 26, 2014 by ark_admin

Spring fever has struck! It’s time to get outdoors and take in the sights, sounds and scenes around The Natural State. With lake season just around the corner, many people are making the trip from Searcy to Heber Springs. If you’re a Harding University alum, you may be feeling nostalgic for a walk on the grassy front lawn. Or, if you’re like most Arkansans, the weather may have you craving a scoop of ice cream from Yarnell’s—a Searcy treasure. Whether you’re visiting the area or a native, we suggest stopping in at the destinations listed on the following pages to freshen your home or wardrobe for the season, or to make travel plans of your own for summer.

{The Boutique} 112 N. Spring Street, Searcy, (501) 268-3434, searcyboutique.com

Walk through the doors of The Boutique and you’ll be inspired to live colorfully. Located in the heart of downtown Searcy in a beautifully revitalized building, the store is a true treasure for shoppers with a discerning eye for style. Owner Marianne Jones curates the cheerful blend of home furnishings, decorative accessories and gifts, including offerings from Pine Cone Hill and Company C. The Boutique also offers bridal registry, carrying popular lines such as Beatriz Ball, Skyros and Coton Colors.

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Out & About: Northeast Arkansas

February 24, 2014 by ark_admin

Long known as a great place to raise a family, Northeast Arkansas abounds with a thriving college scene (Go Red Wolves and Scots!), a robust agricultural industry and plenty of natural attractions, including Crowley’s Ridge Parkway and the Craighead Forest Park. What’s more, they also have one of the state’s strongest collections of home design sources for inspiration, furnishings, fixtures and more. Check out a few of our favorite selections when it comes to shopping and living local in this region of the state.

{Southern Creek Rustic Furnishings} 5730 Blackland Road, Pleasant Plains, (501) 345-8888, southerncreekfurniture.com

If you love natural or rustic-inspired décor, Southern Creek Rustic Furnishings is just the place for you. Offering a wide selection of lodge and western-style home décor, furniture and gifts, the store prides itself on offering quality products at a fair price. Visit them in Pleasant Plains to browse their amazing selection of reclaimed barn-wood, aspen-log and leather pieces. Whether you’re looking to furnish your bedroom, dining room or living area, or simply need a few accessories to pull together a look, Southern Creek Rustic Furnishings is the place to shop. Visit their website to learn about their recently opened second location in Hot Springs.

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Out & About: The River Valley

January 6, 2014 by ark_admin

Follow the winding trail from Morrilton to Fort Smith to experience the best this region has to offer

It’s no secret the western part of our state is a gem for nature lovers. With attractions such as Mt. Nebo State Park, Lake Dardanelle and Petit Jean Mountain State Park, there are numerous opportunities to take advantage of the outdoors. What’s more, you’ll find interesting places and diversions along the way. Make a stop in Atkins to see the town that was once dubbed the “Pickle Capital of the World,” or purchase a bottle of locally made wine in Altus. Whatever your interest, take this quick drive along I-40 to take in the roadside attractions as well as a few of our favorite destinations for jewelry, fashion, home décor, furniture and more.

{ALPHA COUNTERTOPS}

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Out & About: Eureka Springs

November 13, 2013 by ark_admin

Escape to this Northwest Arkansas gem for a winter retreat

Charming inns, top-notch restaurants and eclectic shops with one-of-a-kind wares are just a few of the amenities called to mind when one thinks of Eureka Springs. Its ever-expanding arts scene along with plenty of festivals and events make it a perfect in-state getaway for couples, families and groups. Just looking to relax? A host of bed-and-breakfasts as well as historic flats and hotels are ready to pamper you. As cooler days beckon, take to the mountains to experience all Eureka Springs has to offer—including a few of our favorites featured here.

{Eureka Springs Christmas Parade}

(479) 253-7333, eurekasprings.org

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Out & About: Conway

October 23, 2013 by ark_admin

Often referred to as the “City of Colleges,” Conway is home to three higher education institutions, including Hendrix, the University of Central Arkansas and Central Baptist College. But, that’s not their only claim to fame. Beautiful city murals, a revitalized downtown area and a large selection of home décor and clothing stores make this central Arkansas city the perfect destination to start your holiday shopping.

{Park Hill Home}

1011 Oak Street, (501) 358-3537

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Out & About: Bentonville & Rogers

September 19, 2013 by ark_admin

Shopping, dining and cultural experiences abound in these neighboring Northwest Arkansas towns

From the endless shopping and dining options in Rogers to the ever-growing assortment of entertainment and outdoor activities in Bentonville, this corner of the state is growing rapidly and becoming a nationally known cultural hub. Whether you want to explore one of the handful of museums or art galleries, hear beautiful symphony music, explore expansive parks and hiking trails or shop till you drop, Bentonville and Rogers have something for everyone.