Simply Buckhead June 2020 by Simply Buckhead

June 2020 ISSUE 71 â&#x20AC;¢ FREE

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Chamblee and Dunwoody

BUCKET LIST

STAYCATIONS SWOON-WORTHY NEARBY DESTINATIONS

CLOSET MAKEOVER MOTIVATION AT-HOME HAIR COLOR VIRTUAL ARTS EVENTS

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Please contact us for all your Construction and Real Estate needs! 404.698.3898 pacesbuildergroup.com

404.809.4880 aldergroveproperties.com Independently Owned and Operated

GRATITUDES IN THE TIME OF CORONA

AGENT COMPANYWIDE 2018 & 2019

LARGE TEAM

$65+M SOLD IN 2019

There’s no other way to put it, the past few weeks have been hard. Yet, despite the many restrictions to our day to day lives, the people we’ve missed, the celebrations cancelled, I’ve also found so much to be thankful for. Not many circumstances would provide me the opportunity of having all my babies under one roof for so long. I am grateful for the time to grow closer, stronger, and more humble with my husband and children. I am grateful for the extra time I’m able to designate towards organizations I love like The Piedmont Park Conservatory, GCAPP, and Action Ministries. Finally, I am grateful to live in this thriving city where the strong real estate market has allowed me to continue to work hard and provide for my family during this time.

$35M+ SOLD/ UNDER CONTRACT IN 2020

$550M LIFETIME SALES

Coronavirus has run roughshod over most of the nation’s big-city real estate markets for more than six weeks now…But in a precious few metro areas, something different is happening. In Atlanta…North Carolina, and Austin, Texas…real estate agents are fighting back against the pandemic. ‘You have to give a huge amount of kudos to the real estate community,” said Jeremy Crawford, who runs Atlanta’s Multiple Listing Service. “They learned how to show homes and sell homes and still practice social distancing.” As a result, this rare cluster of cities saw real estate listings or new inventory grow in the first week of April compared with the same period a year earlier, according to data provided by Zillow.com – a remarkable achievement considering that almost every major metropolitan area in the country saw a sharp drop in those categories over the same period. - USA Today May 7, 2020

ERIN YABROUDY & ASSOCIATES

MARKET STATS

SINCE MARCH 1st

NEW LISTINGS

NEW CONTRACTS ($13+M)

CLOSED PROPERTIES ($11+M)

ERIN YABROUDY D: 404.504.7955 | O: 404.233.4142 Erin.Yabroudy@HarryNorman.com

CONNECT WITH US!

@ErinYabroudyAndAssociates ErinYabroudy.com

Buckhead Office - 532 East Paces Ferry Road, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30305 | 404.233.4142 | HarryNorman.com The above information is believed accurate, but is not warranted. This offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale and withdrawals without notice

Looking for the perfect lake home? It may be closer than you think.

At Reynolds Lake Oconee, you’re not just buying a lake home. You’re buying into a remarkable destination about 85 miles east of Atlanta, a southern resort with six championship golf courses, a lakefront Ritz-Carlton® and a community where friends and families gather for weekends—and stay for lifetimes. Homesites from $100K to $2.5M. Residences from $400K to $5M+.

The Ritz-Carlton ®

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6 Championship Golf Courses

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10 Restaurants

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Book your LIFESTYLE VISIT starting at $289* per night. Visit includes up to three nights at The Ritz-Carlton or in a Cottage or Condominium, two rounds of golf, two-hour boat rental, breakfast each day, $75 club credit for a two-night stay and private preview of real estate opportunities.

Sporting Grounds

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4 Marinas

ReynoldsLakeOconee.com/Buckhead

(855) 706.1690

*Excludes holidays and subject to availability; club credit for promotional purposes only. Real estate and other amenities are owned by Oconee Land Development Company LLC and/or other subsidiaries and affiliates of MetLife, Inc. (collectively, “OLDC” or “Sponsor”) and by unrelated third parties. Reynolds Lake Oconee Properties, LLC (“RLOP”) is the exclusive listing agent for OLDC-owned properties in Reynolds Lake Oconee. RLOP also represents buyers and sellers of properties in Reynolds Lake Oconee which OLDC does not own (“Resale Properties”). OLDC is not involved in the marketing or sale of Resale Properties. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy OLDC-owned real estate in Reynolds Lake Oconee by residents of HI, ID, OR, or any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. As to such states, any offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy applies only to Resale Properties. Access and rights to recreational amenities may be subject to fees, membership dues, or other limitations. Information provided is believed accurate as of the date printed but may be subject to change from time to time. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is a private commercial enterprise and use of the facilities is subject to the applicable fees and policies of the operator.

REOPENING FEBRUARY 2020

For OLDC properties, obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Void where prohibited by law. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR DISQUALIFIED THIS OFFERING. An offering statement has been filed with the Iowa Real Estate Commission and a copy of such statement is available from OLDC upon request. OLDC properties have been registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen at 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, Massachusetts 02118-6100 and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection at 1700 G Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. Certain OLDC properties are registered with the Department of Law of the State of New York. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN AN OFFERING PLAN AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR. FILE NO. H14-0001. Notice to New York Residents: The developer of Reynolds Lake Oconee and its principals are not incorporated in, located in, or resident in the state of New York. No offering is being made in or directed to any person or entity in the state of New York or to New York residents by or on behalf of the developer/offeror or anyone acting with the developer/offeror’s knowledge. No such offering, or purchase or sale of real estate by or to residents of the state of New York, shall take place until all registration and filing requirements under the Martin Act and the Attorney General’s regulations are complied with, a written exemption is obtained pursuant to an application is granted pursuant to and in accordance with Cooperative Policy Statements #1 or #7, or a “No-Action” request is granted.

SIMPLY BUCKHEAD® |

JUNE 2020

22 36

Photos: 30, 54, 66: Sara Hana

Contents 54 COVER STORY 12 Editor’s Letter

26 Pets: Canine Comfort and Feline Friendship

[ SIMPLY NOW ]

15 News: Art For All

A furry face and a snuggle might be just what the doctor ordered

Sandy Springs’ new public art display

28 Kids: Screen Safety

16 Local Salute:

Does blue light from screen time hurt your kids’ eyes or not?

Take a Hike, Cancer

Should I Stay or Should I Go? [ SIMPLY STYLISH ]

[ SIMPLY DELICIOUS ]

38 Fashion: Closet Cleanout

66 Review: In Varasano Veritas

Fighting childhood cancers, one mile at a time

[ SIMPLY LIVING ]

Transform this vital space with tips from a professional organizer

18 Travel Near:

30 Home: Family First

40 Beauty: Color Savvy

A young couple transforms a 1940s Springlake residence into a chic first nest

Leverage these expert tips before you color your hair at home

34 Bulletin Board:

Mazi Robinson encourages women along their personal journeys

Tap into Asheville The beer lover’s getaway with mountains for backdrop

22 Travel Far: BVI Blues

Earthy Dwelling

Soak up every shade of the color in the dramatically beautiful British Virgin Islands

5 easy ways to make your home eco-friendly

24 15 Minutes With: Tony Conway The special events guru on colors, cookbooks and more

36 Tastemaker:

TRAVEL INSPIRATION, TOOLS AND ADVICE FOR CLOSE-BY GETAWAYS

44 Tastemaker: Room to Grow

[ SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ]

Old Soul, New Style

48 Art: Young at Art

Buckhead interior design prodigy Kevin O’Gara dishes on design

Kate Waddell brings her whimsical still life paintings to Atlanta

A convenient truth: Great Naplesstyle pizza is closer than you think

68 Drinks: Sky High Sipping Buckhead’s finest rooftops for the happiest hours

70 Foodie Journal: The Cure for the Summertime Blues John Castellucci shares his tips for building a charcuterie board [ SIMPLY HAPPENING ]

73 Events: Places to go and things to do

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

Serving Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Chamblee and Dunwoody JUNE 2020 | ISSUE 71 P.O. Box 11633, Atlanta, GA 30355 simplybuckhead.com For advertising rates, call: 404.538.9895 Publisher and Founder

[ F E AT U RE D C ON T RI B U T OR ]

Joanne Hayes Chief Financial Officer

Sonny Hayes Managing Editor

Karina Antenucci Senior Contributing Editor

Jennifer Bradley Franklin Creative Director

Alan Platten ValueStream Media Chief Photographer

Sara Hanna Vice President, Sales & Marketing

Cheryl Isaacs Account Executive

Michelle Johnson Website Development Management

BHG Digital Director of Audience Development

Amy Meadows

We Create Outdoor Spaces That Reflect Just How You Want To Live Outside King Landscaping will approach your project with a great appreciation for your vision, your budget, your land and your time. You’ll get spectacular results that will grow more beautiful with age and provide you with many years of enjoyment. That’s our passion. That’s our promise. That’s King Landscaping.

1616 Atlanta Road | Marietta, GA 30060 www.KingLandscapingATL.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Amy Meadows is a veteran freelance writer and president of Green Meadows Communications, LLC. She has written more than 5,000 articles in local, regional and national consumer and trade publications, including KNOWAtlanta Magazine, Diversity in Action, Georgia Travel Guide, Arthritis Today and more. She also writes organizational histories and is an award-winning children’s book author. She lives in the suburbs north of Atlanta with her husband, two sons and a classic antique typewriter that she may not use but loves to look at as she types away on her laptop every day.

We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission. Copyright © 2020 by Simply Buckhead ®. All rights reserved. Printed by Walton Press, Inc. Distributed by Distributech and Distribution Services Group.

Mike Jose Copy Editor

H.M. Cauley Contributing Writers

Jill Becker Giannina S. Bedford H.M. Cauley Rebecca Cha Carly Cooper Jessica Dauler Mickey Goodman Angela Hansberger Nicole Letts Amy Meadows Amanda Morris Laura J. Moss Lia Picard Ginger Strejcek Graphic Designer

Layal Akkad Legal Counsel

Scott I. Zucker

FIND US ONLINE Read Simply Buckhead online at

SimplyBuckhead.com Facebook facebook.com “Like” us at LivingWellATL

Twitter twitter.com Follow us @SimplyBuckhead

Instagram instagram.com Follow us @SimplyBuckhead

[ BEHIND THE COVER ] Producers: Jennifer Bradley Franklin, Who doesn’t love an afternoon in wide-open Joanne Hayes spaces, enjoying the natural beauty of the Photographer: Sara Hanna Georgia countryside? Fortunately, we didn’t Photography assistant: Scott Asano have to wander far from Buckhead for this Models: Angelique van der Byl and John Guidera, courtesy of Select bucolic “staycation” cover shoot at Serenbe, Model Management just 45 minutes south of Atlanta. Our modMake-up: Sarai Mateo els, Angelique van der Byl and John Guidera, Wardrobe: Female model styled by Sara Mixon and wardrobe posed as a couple enjoying a weekend getcourtesy of Tootsie’s. (Borgo away. Photographer Sara Hanna captured the De Nor dress, $825) Shot on location at Serenbe. magic, lit by early evening sunlight, in several locations around the Inn at Serenbe and on the 1,400-acre grounds. One highlight: shooting with Cisco, a gentle, 18-year-old paint horse, owned by Serenbe trail-riding manager Haley Redding.

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL IN ATLANTA

ife

[ P RO U D S P ON S OR OF ]

[ P ROU D M E M B E R OF ]

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

SIMPLY BUCKHEAD® JUNE 2020

[ E DI T OR ’ S L E T T E R ]

s we produce this issue, I find myself at home, scrolling through Instagram

A Place Where You Belong

and dreaming of trips yet to come. On my bucket list? Anywhere in snow-covered Norway to see the Northern Lights and Santorini, Greece, where the sharp contrast between the blue of the sea and the white-

Thank you to our restaurants, shops & services during this difficult time.

washed buildings never ceases to amaze me. Those trips seem farther away than ever, in light of the global pandemic.

For the cover feature, our team of writers drew upon their

Many of our businesses have reopened, so please check with them individually for more information on current operating hours, curbside/delivery options & more.

experiences and favorite staycations in and around Atlanta.

Town Brookhaven is coming back stronger than ever!

It might seem surprising, then, that Simply Buckhead’s June issue is all about travel, specifically staycations.

The feature has everything you need to build out your own

ANCHORS

local travel bucket list, with destinations including Buckhead’s

CinéBistro/Cobb Theatre • Costco • LA Fitness • Marshalls • Publix

new boutique hotel The Burgess; The Candler Hotel, which

APPAREL & ACCESSORIES Boogaloos • Dress Up Boutique • Vestique

inhabits the building erected by Coca-Cola’s Asa Griggs

SHOES

Candler in the early 1900s; the ever-lovely farm-centric

Big Peach Running Co.

Serenbe, which you can see on our cover, to name

HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

just a few. There are also tips for scoring the best deal

18|8 Fine Men’s Salon • Benchmark Physical Therapy Brookhaven Orthodontics • Emory Clinic • European Wax Center GNC (General Nutrition Center) • Intown Pediatrics The Joint - The Chiropractic Place Julian’s Cosmetics and Skincare • Massage Heights Nail Talk & Tan • Saks Salon Salon Red • Salon Red Kids • Town Dentistry Vein Clinics of America • Vida-Flo: The Hydration Station

on excursions, Georgia-made snacks for sustenance on your journey and fun things to do with little ones. This issue has lots of terrific non-travel stories too. Nicole Letts profiles interior design blogger and entrepreneur Kevin O’Gara, Karina Antenucci shares advice from eye

DINING Bua Thai and Sushi • The Flying Biscuit Café HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern • Lucky’s Burger & Brew Marble Slab Creamery • Moe’s Southwest Grill Newk’s Express Café • Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub Red Pepper Taqueria • Tanaka Ramen There Restaurant and Bar • Tropical Smoothie Café Urban Wok (Opening Soon) • Which Wich? • Yogurtland

doctors about how to keep your child’s eyes healthy amid extra screen time and Jessica Dauler rounds up some of the season’s must-have sun gear—whether you’re out and about or soaking up the sun at home. In his travelogue Travels with Charley, Nobel Prize-winning

HOME FURNISHINGS & DÉCOR Redefined Home Boutique

American author John

SERVICES

Steinbeck wrote, “People don’t

Bank of the Ozarks • Brookhaven Alterations Brookhaven Animal Hospital • FBC Mortgage • Keller Williams Reflections Eyecare • Town Cleaners

take trips; trips take people.” We couldn’t agree more.

ELECTRONICS, MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Whether you’re an armchair

AT&T

traveler dreaming of trips yet

TRAVEL & TOURISM Brookhaven Convention & Visitors Bureau

to come or a road warrior ready to spontaneously strike Sara Hanna

out at a moment’s notice, driving wherever the road (and your whim!) takes you, this issue is for you.

Jennifer Bradley Franklin Senior Contributing Editor

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

www.townbrookhaven.net Conveniently located on Peachtree Road adjacent to Oglethorpe University.

SIMPLY NOW

TRAVEL FAR

BVI Blues P22

What happens on the rest of the planet seems blissfully distant from this tiny spot in the stunning sea.

A bird's eye view of Scrub Island in the British Virgin Islands.

June 2020 | Simply Buckheadâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

NEWS BY:

Ginger Strejcek

ART FOR ALL F

our American artists have made a lasting impression on Sandy Springs. Their fantastic feats of steel will become a permanent part of the city’s landscape, thanks to the public art initiative, ArtSS in the Open. Featured in the inaugural sculpture garden competition unveiled last year at City Springs, the winning

works include Optimistical by Nathan Pierce of Cape Giradeau, Missouri; Doppelganger by Carl Billingsley of Greensboro, North Carolina; Delilah by Joni Younkins-Herzog of Athens, Georgia; and Hand Plant by Jack Howard-Potter of New York City. Each piece is designed around an “inspired by nature” theme,

and the finalists were chosen through a juried process, including museum and gallery curators and well-regarded artists working in the realm of public art. With community input informing the decision process, the city purchased the pieces for $72,000 and is working with Art Sandy Springs and Designing Local to identify installation locations. Meanwhile, the public can enjoy a new gallery of sculptures on display at City Green, the outdoor green space at City Springs. n

Clockwise from top left: Hand Plant by Jack HowardPotter; Delilah by Joni Younkins-Herzog; Doppelganger by Carl Billingsley and Optimistical by Nathan Pierce.

CITY SPRINGS ART WALK 1 Galambos Way Sandy Springs 30328 770.730.5600 citysprings.com/art

NEWS CLIPS SAMPLE DUNWOODY’S CULINARY OFFERINGS From hand-tossed pizza and made-from-scratch pastries to farm-fresh peaches and artisan cheeses, Dunwoody is bursting with flavor. Dig right in on the Dunwoody Market Trail that spotlights some of the city’s tastiest offerings, including European specialty foods at Alon’s Bakery & Market, Zukerino and E. 48th Street Market; juicy pickings at Dunwoody Farmers Market and Nell’s Produce

Market; and sweet treats at Café Intermezzo. “Many of the stops are family-owned and operated, and favorites of the community,” says Kimberly Franz, marketing director of Discover Dunwoody, adding that it’s a fun way to explore the area. Discover Dunwoody discoverdunwoody.com

LIVE IT UP IN BUCKHEAD The Irby, Buckhead’s newest luxury development, is checking off wish lists inside and out, from custom

finishes and shared spaces to mobility and convenience. In addition to three residential floors, the property boasts 13,150 square feet of ground floor retail space that will house five tenants, including Le Bon Nosh. “There’s a demand for upscale living in a central location that has a sense of community with close proximity to retail and restaurants, and The Irby delivers all of that and more,” says Todd Oglesby, Alliance Residential’s Southeast managing director. “Residents

are in the heart of the city’s entertainment district.” The Irby 65 Irby Ave. N.W. Atlanta 30305 470.480.5960 theirby.com

PT CENTER EXPANDS AROUND TOWN With five years of success in Sandy Springs, physical therapy center PT360 recently expanded to Buckhead and Alpharetta. The concierge-type practice specializes in manual therapy, exercise performance,

functional dry needling and sacroiliac joint dysfunction. “Our physical therapists draw from extensive training and experience to provide superior care,” says PT360 Owner David Mesnick, PT, OCS, cMDT. “We treat most orthopedic and sports medicine problems, and service all age groups.” PT360 3565 Piedmont Road N.E. Bldg. 2, Suite 310 Atlanta 30305 678.430.8107 pt360atl.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

H IG H M U S E U M O F AR T AT L AN T A

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June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

LOCAL SALUTE

Making a Connection “Family” counts Jewanna Gaither became enamored with Big Brothers Big Sisters as a college student at Fort Valley State University when she became a big sister to 10-year old Keona. The two stayed connected even after Gaither’s graduation in 2006. It seemed serendipitous that First Third Bank in Buckhead, where she is marketing director, was a major supporter of the organization. “Company-wide, we provide financial literacy opportunities to participants and their parents, as well as college scholarships for graduating seniors,” she says. “When I was asked to join BBBS’s Fashion Play committee to help raise funds, I quickly agreed.” Sponsored by the Atlanta Falcons and Saks Fifth Avenue, BBBS’s Fashion Play: Heart of Diamond fashion

BY:

Mickey Goodman

Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteers flanked by Falcons cheerleaders (from left to right) Jewanna Gaither, Sarah Stansbury, Angela Blank, Arthur Blank, Amy Agami, Chelle Pope and Lericia Harris.

show takes place at 7 p.m. on June 5 at The Fairmont. Falcons players and cheerleaders, as well as Bigs and Littles, will stroll down the runway modeling the latest fashions. In 2011, Gaither’s husband, Pierre, became a Big Brother to an eighth grader named Antonio, and the couple remains connected to him and his young family. “It’s a great feeling to know you’ve made a difference in someone else’s life,” she says. “About 1,400 kids currently have Bigs, but there are 400 waiting to be matched,” Gaither says. “We desperately need additional mentors, and there are multiple ways to get involved. You can donate money or even more important, mentor a child.” l For more information visit bbbsatl.org/fashionplay.

Take a Hike, Cancer

Dunwoody resident Sherie Green participated in her first 28.3-mile CureSearch Ultimate Hike to raise money for pediatric cancer research in 2019. For Green, it was personal. Her 7-year-old niece, Noya Roizman-Mor, died of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) , an aggressive childhood cancerous tumor that forms in the brain stem. “It’s the same type that killed Neil

Honoring Volunteers Youth leading youth That old expression “It takes a village to raise a child” could be a mantra for the Cowart Family and Carl E. Sanders YMCAs, both in Buckhead, where volunteers enrich the lives of participants. The best of the best of the YMCA across the city were honored in February at the Celebration of Community Champions: 2020 Vision event at the Cobb Galleria. Among those saluted were Sanders Y’s Volunteer of the Year, Buckhead resident Gregory Burns, who began his two-year stint volunteering as an intern while he was a student at Georgia State University. After graduation, he was asked to join the staff. “At the Y, everyone builds you up and gives you what you need to be successful in life,” he says.

Sherie Green hikes to raise money for children's cancer research.

Fighting childhood cancers, one mile at a time

Armstrong’s daughter 60 years ago,” she says. “Tragically, there has been little research or success in finding a cure since then.” The Ultimate Hike is the only national hiking fundraiser dedicated to fighting children’s cancer. Atlanta participants normally train together on Kennesaw Mountain

YMCA lauds volunteers. From left to right, Anisha Rohit Nathu, Gregory Burns and Taylor Marie Crawford.

because the terrain is similar to the Foothills Trail in South Carolina where the event takes place. But 2020 is far from normal. This year, in addition to their captain and coach, who are both medical professionals at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, hikers are training solo for the September 26 event (originally scheduled for April, it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Each hiker is asked to raise $2,500, and over the last 10 years, CureSearch has raised $6.5 million. Funding goes to both new, outof-the-box research initiatives and long-running research with proven success.

Dunwoody resident Anisha Rohit Nathu was named Volunteer of the Year at Cowart for serving as a role model for the 50 teens she has mentored for the last two years. “I understand what they are going through and hopefully help them deal with it,” she says. Nathu, a dentist, encourages teens to be the best version of themselves. Cowart Teen Leader of the Year Taylor Marie Crawford of Brookhaven began volunteering with Kiddie Kickers soccer five years ago, then moved on to the Junior Club and Advanced Leadership Academy. She is currently a member of the Cowart Family Teen Leaders Club and a soccer referee. “Leaders Club has given me the hunger to make good changes in this world,” she says. l For more information visit ymcaatlanta.org.

“Many of us hike in memory of a child who has died, and at the end of the race there are pictures of all the children who are being remembered,” Green says. “It was both moving and heart breaking to find Noya’s photo among the faces of far too many victims.” l For more information visit curesearch.org.

Want to nominate a volunteer, company or nonprofit that makes Buckhead, Chamblee, Dunwoody Sandy Springs or Brookhaven a better place to live? Please contact: editor@simplybuckhead.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

TR AV E L NE A R

DETAILS Burial Beer burialbeer.com Forestry Camp forestrycamp.com Highland Brewing highlandbrewing.com

Above: Asheville boasts more breweries than one could visit in a weekend. The scenery, with the blue and gray Blue Ridge Mountains rising around, is spectacular. Left: The South Slope area is full of breweries. Below: Experience dinner while sitting in a giant barrel at Cultura.

New Belgium Brewing Co. newbelgium.com Sierra Nevada sierranevada.com Wicked Weed Funkatorium/Cultura wickedweedbrewing.com French Broad Outfitters frenchbroadoutfitters.com

Tap into

Asheville The beer lover’s getaway with mountains for backdrop STORY:

Angela Hansberger

ith more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city, Asheville is the place for a beer lover’s weekend. The city is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and next to the banks of the French Broad River, provides a perfect home base for hiking, paddling, eating and drinking, with natural beauty as a constant backdrop. A trip to Asheville could center around a visit to Biltmore, the largest residence in the U.S. with more than 250 rooms, a winery and pristine gardens to explore. The Asheville skyline looks strikingly similar to its booming heyday of the 1920s when it sprang up. A walking trip of downtown is an architectural delight of Art Deco, Beaux Arts and Gothic styles. While history, architecture and food are draws, beer trumps them all. Asheville’s first legal brewery since Prohibition opened in 1994 on the east side of town. Highland Brewing was named as an homage to the Scottish immigrants who settled here in the 18th century. Family-owned, its expansive roof is half covered by the

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

sixth largest solar array of any brewery in the country. Highland is familyfriendly, with a giant meadow perfect for listening to live music or watching the sun set over the mountains. Sip on: Gaelic Ale, the signature amber ale, rich and malty with full hop flavor. The South Slope area has a cluster of breweries that can be visited for free. Don’t miss Burial Beer. What began as a nano-brewery (using one barrel to make beers) grew into a 10-barrel system. The place is laid back, with an indoor/outdoor area and an agrarian vibe. Tap handles are made from old farm implements. They recently opened Forestry Camp restaurant, just 2.3 miles away, in partnership with chef and Cucina 24 owner Brian Canipelli. The space is the former Civilian Conservation Corps camp where workers who helped construct the Blue Ridge Parkway lived. Sip on: The Prayer, a Belgian-style pale ale is tart with a hint of apricot. Continue in the South Slope neighborhood to Wicked Weed Brewing Funkatorium. This is the east coast’s first brewery dedicated to funky and

sour beers. Live music is often playing in the outdoor area while tours and tastings happen indoors. Adjacent is Cultura, a restaurant partnership with Table chef/owner Jacob Sessoms that serves “new agrarian cuisine.” The airy space is a great way to experience the beers along with a menu of small plates and curated feasts that are fun to explore while dining inside one of the two foeders (giant French oak barrels) turned into private booths. Sip on: Pernicious IPA, a brew that’s bright, tropical and super hoppy. Two larger breweries from the west selected Asheville for their East Coast headquarters. New Belgium Brewing Co. is an employee-owned operation with a tap room perched above the French Broad River. You can paddle right up after renting kayaks from French Broad Outfitters. The 18-acre facility has a massive green space and a state-of-the-art bottling area in full view during free tours. Sip on: La Folie, a Flanders-style sour brown ale with deep cherry tartness. Sierra Nevada is a short drive from downtown in Mills River. This is a beer

STAY: Chestnut Street Inn This eight guestroom bed and breakfast is a 10-minute walk to downtown. It’s run by two former New York City sommeliers who create custom itineraries for guests (including a self-guided walking beer tour). With something for everybody, they also host natural wine tastings, caviar service and margarita classes. Guests will find a range of rooms from quintessential little spaces to an Asian-themed Zen retreat, complete with sitting areas and a personal steam shower. Whatever sort of experience you want from an Asheville getaway, the innkeepers here can guide you. chestnutstreetinn.com

and nature lover’s playground. Situated on 183 acres, the brewery is LEED Certified Platinum. Visit copper kettles fermenting, assembly lines, rooms full of types of hops, and of course, the tasting room with 23 beers on tap. The restaurant is best experienced from the outdoor terrace. Sip on: 40th Anniversary Ale, a brew with balanced bitterness with piney and citrusy hops of a West Coast IPA. n

AWA R D W I N N I N G R E S TAU R A N T S

Kyma

Corner CafÃ©

Buckhead Diner

Chops Lobster Bar

Bistro Niko

@buckheadlife

Pricci

1-877 BUCKHEAD

BuckheadRestaurants.com

Atlanta Fish Market

Photos: Destination Kohler

T R AV E L FA R

Cool Off in Kohler

Above: Whistling Straits golf course rolls along the banks of Lake Michigan. Below: Kohler Waters Spa is the resort's onsite five-star spa.

Wisconsin offers golf lovers and wellness seekers the best of both worlds STORY: Nicole Letts

y alarm chimed at 6 a.m., raising me from plush, luxurious bedding at The American Club, the Midwest’s only AAA and Forbes Five Star resort in Kohler, Wisconsin. Unlike most other mornings (I am a night owl), I opened my eyes immediately and swung my feet from underneath the comforter. I had to get downstairs in 20 minutes to catch the shuttle to Whistling Straits, the resort’s nearby Irish-style golf course, and time was of the essence, especially if I wanted to see the course before it was inundated with golfers. That was the moment I knew I was enamored by the quaint town. I had woken up early after a long day of travel simply to see a golf course, something I had never given two thoughts to. The town is the headquarters of Kohler Company, the iconic kitchen and bath manufacturer that owns The American Club. In 1918, the property housed Kohler factory workers and was given its name to instill a sense of American pride in the employees, who were largely immigrants. The historic structure was reimagined in 1981 and became a luxury hotel. It has been updated regularly since then with the most recent renovation completed in 2018. Come September, the town of Kohler will host the Ryder Cup, one of the premier PGA events. The tournament is a battle for the cup but also for biennial bragging rights. Twentyfour of the top players in the U.S. and

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Europe play in head-to-head matches. Since the 2020 tournament will be held at Whistling Straits, I had to see it. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the clubhouse, a rustic rubble stone Irish farmhouse with staggering views of Lake Michigan, complemented by the rolling hills of the course. Scanning the distance as the wind tickled my hair, I felt transported to Ireland. Morning dew topped the grass and mist hovered. While I didn’t see them myself, the course has a flock of blackface Scottish sheep that roam freely as if they were meandering the British Isles. This was an enchanting place. Guests of The American Club can book tee times at any of the four courses: The Meadow Valleys and The River in Blackwolf Run, or The Irish and The Straits in Whistling Straits. Each course was designed by Pete Dye, a legendary golf course designer. While I didn’t swing any golf clubs

that day, I did spend a few blissful hours at Kohler Waters Spa at The American Club. In a co-ed sanctuary, guests can dip in and out of a plunge pool, lounge on the enclosed rooftop deck and receive immersive therapeutic water treatments. I opted for a hydrotherapy service, the Hydro Rock Treatment, where my massage was accompanied by a Kohler Vichy shower. Another activity not to be missed: River Wildlife, an on-property, 500-acre wilderness preserve with self-guided salmon fishing expeditions, canoe and kayak rentals and pheasant hunting. Just a 90-minute flight from Atlanta, plus a 50-minute drive from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, the Wisconsin town offers an easy escape to stately comfort. The 241 The American Club is a member of Historic Hotels of America, and dates back to 1918.

guest rooms at The American Club are outfitted with rich, wood-toned furniture and top-of-the-line amenities, including Kohler bathroom fixtures. The resort offers 15 dining options, ranging from casual bites and beer at the Horse and Plow pub to elegant, American-meets-European cuisine at The Immigrant Restaurant with its 1,000-bottle wine list. Before my autumn visit, the property hosted its premiere annual event, Kohler Food and Wine, where celebrity chefs such as Food Network star Maneet Chauhan showcased their skills during the four-day ticketed spectacular. If golf, good food and wine and relaxation can’t convince you of a quick getaway to this charming town, maybe you’ll be lured by the weather. Average summer temperatures hover between the 70s and 80s with lows dipping into the 50s. It’s a great place to escape Atlanta heat throughout summer and fall. n

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T R AV E L FA R

BVI Blues STORY:

H.M. Cauley

he 10-seater prop jet flies low enough over the waters off San Juan to see the blue Caribbean waters below. But keep an eye out the windows (and your mind off the bouncing and bumping) and watch for the change. Something somewhat magical happens during the 45-minute flight that takes visitors beyond the U.S. territories and into the British Virgin Islands. It’s all about the blue. Bordered by the Caribbean on the south and the Atlantic Ocean on the north, the BVI blends the best of both waters into shades of blue that almost defy description. The most vivid is in the deep, where synonyms of sapphire and royal blue come to mind. Streaks of cyan mark the shallow spots, and variations of crystal and turquoise lap at the beaches of rugged outcroppings that make up this string of tropical retreats. Add to the palette the cloudless, azure sky, and it’s a wonder the Crayola company hasn’t produced an entire collection of just BVI blues.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Soak up every shade of the color in the dramatically beautiful British Virgin Islands

Prop jets from Puerto Rico land in Tortola, the main embarkation point for boats sailing off to one of more than 50 islands that make up the BVI. More than a dozen are uninhabited, while some, such as Virgin Gorda, feature small communities where life revolves around the water. One destination that combines luxury with seclusion is Scrub Island, a 10-minute speedboat ride from the Tortola airport. What luck to have landed on Scrub the weekend the world went mad over COVID-19! Yes, the island has television and internet access, but what happens on the rest of the planet seems blissfully distant from this tiny spot in the stunning sea. Life here is centered on ones: a one mile-long ring road, one Marriott resort, one marina, one broad expanse of white-sand bathing beach and one idyllic escape from reality. The only thing guests are required to do is to fall into the pace of island life and unwind. That’s quickly done in one of the resort's 52 guest rooms, 55 boat slips or 11 villas, ideal for groups and families with two to six bedrooms and

Above: The Marriott's Scrub Island Resort overlooks a marina as well as other islands in the BVI chain. Left: The bar in the upscale Cardamom restaurant is just one area of the Scrub Island resort that offers vivid views.

upscale trimmings (outfitted gourmet kitchens, private plunge pools, spaquality bathrooms, multiple decks and porches). One small but well-stocked market, complete with deli counter, bakery and wine selection, can provide cooks with options, but the resort’s two restaurants easily keep guests sated while they kick back at tables with sweeping ocean views. Visitors who need more activity than soaking up the sun or coming up with different words for “blue” can pick up paddles and head out in kayaks to explore the pristine beaches

of nearby islands. Boat charters ferry guests on day trips to check out the best spots for swimming and snorkeling. And a boutique spa, set on the edge of cliff overlooking the sea, offers a range of pampering experiences to fill an entire day. Scrub and its neighboring islands do boast one unfortunate shade of blue. It’s the sinking feeling that overtakes travelers who have to board that prop jet and watch the BVI blues fade into the distance as they head back to reality. n scrubisland.com

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June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

15 MINUTES WITH TONY

CONWAY

STORY:

Amy Meadows

sk Tony Conway, founder of Buckhead’s award-winning special event company Legendary Events, what he sees as his own ideal event, and his answer may surprise you. “Being by the fire in my North Georgia house with wine and a new book to read—that’s the perfect event,” he reveals. “I can go there for a day or three days, and it’s a place where I can reenergize.” With Conway and his team planning and executing around 600 spectacular occasions each year, the need for some relaxing downtime makes complete sense. In fact, Legendary Events, which Conway launched in 1997 after more than a decade in the luxury hotel industry, has become one of Atlanta’s most renowned special events enterprises, planning everything from elegant weddings and chic cocktail parties to lavish galas and high-profile celebrity functions. In addition to providing a full suite of catering, floral, decor and design services, the company hosts events at two exclusively owned Buckhead venues, The Estate and Flourish. In 2018, Conway celebrated his company’s 20th anniversary with the release of the fine art photography book Tony Conway | Legendary Events, which highlighted past events.

Which recent event stands out for you? We have so many great events, but being part of producing the Tyler Perry Studios opening last year brought everything full circle for us. Mr. Perry wrote the forward in the book, and we’ve been planning events with him for the last 11 or

12 years. It was an honor to be selected. It was months of planning and hard work, but it was all worth it to see him—and everyone—enjoying it. How do you juggle all the events you plan? I have an amazing team— the best in the special events

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

industry. We have about 50 people and hundreds of independent contractors, freelancers and part-time workers. They all are the best at what they do. So juggling for me is not hard because we’re all juggling together. I love being the conductor of the orchestra. What is a typical day like? There really isn’t a typical day. We may arrive in the morning and then go into a staff meeting. We have a lot of conversations about our clients, floral, how trucks are getting packed, financial topics and more. That lasts until about 4 p.m., and then we’re off to executing the events. When your

job is celebrating, the day doesn’t become too long. It’s the best job in the world. What is your favorite color palette? If you go into my venues, my office or my kitchen, you’ll see the color that really resonates with me is red. It’s energizing and bold. It’s a happy color. And my favorite color is black. It’s neutral and leads you to all kinds of other colors and ideas. You’re an avid collector of cookbooks. Why? I have around 3,000. What I love are the stories associated with them. For me, it’s not about the

recipes—I love the story behind each book. What’s next for you? Once this pandemic has passed, my goal is to reconnect with our team and discuss what their goals are. We want to do what our company does so well. We will continue to focus on the attention to detail. We are going to be ready for the next opportunity in this world. And we will look forward to opening a third venue down the road. n LEGENDARY EVENTS 404.869.8858 legendaryevents.com

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La Roche-Posay My Skin Track UV ($60) This dermatologist-backed skincare brand is known for its cutting-edge products and innovation when it comes to fighting sun damage, and this batteryfree sun sensor is no exception. Clip it onto clothing or a wristband and wait for the light emitting diode (LED) to capture UV exposure and send alerts to your smartphone via the accompanying app. Notifications are sent when nearing maximum UV exposure for individual skin tone. The app also sends skincare tips and product recommendations. Target 5570 Roswell Road Sandy Springs 30342 678.704.8120 target.com

STORY:

Jessica Dauler

Bluestone Sun Shield ($65) If you’re not a fan of large, brimmed hats, consider adding this Instagram-worthy visor to your summer wardrobe. Ideal for long days al fresco, the heat-resistant, transparent plastic lens keeps face and eyes protected from 99% of the sun's rays. The black headband and champagne-colored lens can be adjusted to keep your face covered regardless of the sun’s angle.

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June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

P E TS

Canine Comfort and Feline Friendship

Charlotte Simons

McKinley's comfort and ease in every situation make him a good candidate for therapy work.

STORY:

Laura J. Moss

hen Indy, a spirited goldendoodle, enters A.G. Rhodes Long Term Care and Rehabilitation at Emory, residents’ faces light up. “Many patients suffer from memory loss, but 99% of the time just seeing Indy’s big fluffy head walk through the door brings a smile, starts a conversation and triggers a memory of a beloved pet from long ago,” says Indy’s owner, Lee Ann Kaplan. Indy is a Therapy Pets Unlimitedcertified therapy dog who frequents the senior care facility, visiting patients in their rooms and assisting in physical therapy. Kaplan has countless heartwarming stories of Indy engaging with residents and delighting patients who are eager to pet her dog’s curly head and floppy ears. “One of my favorites was when a particularly stubborn patient didn’t want to do her walking therapy until she was allowed to ‘walk’ Indy down the hall—with assistance and a walker,” she says. “Then she was all in.” Therapy animals like Indy are trained to provide affection and support to people in a variety of places, such as hospitals and retirement homes. And while you may be more likely to encounter a therapy dog, canines aren’t the only ani-

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

mals bringing a bit of feel-good therapy. In fact, McKinley, a Siberian cat based in Sandy Springs, proves that felines can be just as skilled at providing comfort. McKinley is an emotional support animal for his owner, Charlotte Simons, and he accompanied her to college in rural Washington, where he won hearts everywhere he went. “He was so personable and loved attention,” says Simons. “I watched other stressed-out students light up when they got to pet him. That gave me the idea that he could help other people too just as much as he has helped me.” Because there was no established agency nearby, Simons began working independently with McKinley, who is leash trained. She exposed him to sights and sounds he may encounter while volunteering, including loud noises, wheelchairs, elevators, crutches and children. She also taught him to be non-reactive to being touched, especially in sensitive areas like his stomach, feet and tail. This was sufficient for the volunteer work she and her cat did in college. Now that she’s back in the Atlanta area, Simons is working with Pet Partners so McKinley can get certified and begin volunteering locally. “I always enjoy [going to] nursing homes because the residents are used

Lee Ann Kaplan

A furry face and a snuggle might be just what the doctor ordered

to seeing dogs,” says Simons. “Many people miss their cats and never expected to see one in person again.” Kaplan agrees that exposure and training is an important part of preparing any animal for therapy work. “They need to be bomb proof, focused and unfazed by any crazy thing that may happen,” she says. “On our very first visit, we were crammed into the back of a freight elevator with three wheelchair patients, plus staff. A fire alarm went off right near Indy’s head while he was visiting with a group of patients, and a wheelchair ran over his tail. Luckily, he was unfazed by it all.” n

Indy is beloved by both nursing home residents and employees.

DETAILS Therapy Pets Unlimited therapypetsunlimited.org Pet Partners petpartners.org Follow these therapy pets on Instagram: @indythegoldendoodle and @mckinleythecat.

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June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

K ID S

SCREEN SAFETY DOES BLUE LIGHT FROM SCREEN TIME HURT YOUR KIDS’ EYES OR NOT?

or many parents, screen time is a helpful, though sometimes guilt-ridden, distraction for the kiddos in order to accomplish household tasks or gain some peace and quiet. During pandemic times, it has become an essential tool for working from home and providing children with daily education and virtual adventures. But how concerned should you be about your kids’ blue light exposure and digital device usage? Dr. Jerry E. Berland of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus at Thomas Eye Group and assistant chief of ophthalmology at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite, offers input on this hot topic. “Blue light is a range of wavelengths in the visible light spectrum. The largest source is by far from the sun. A small amount [of blue light exposure] comes from digital screens,” explains Berland. The American Academy of Pediatrics doesn’t recommend any screen

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

time for children younger than 1 year old and advocates limiting it to just one hour per day for those ages 2 to 5. However, those suggestions don’t have anything to do with eye health. “There is no scientific evidence that blue light and screen time damage children’s eyes. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages limiting screen time to allow for other activities important to their health and development such as reading, interactive play and physical activity. The absence of physical activity can lead to childhood obesity. There is some evidence that links increased screen time to attention-related disorders in children,” says Berland. Blue light also can affect circadian rhythms and sleep health. “Exposure to blue light in the evening can disrupt sleep cycles; therefore, blue light lenses and screen filters may have a place one to two hours prior to sleep,” says Berland, who recom-

STORY:

Karina Antenucci

mends adjusting digital devices to dim and warm up colors in the evenings by using settings such as the Night Shift on Apple iPhones and iPads. According to a study by the National Eye Institute, children who spend more time outdoors have lower incidences of myopia (nearsightedness), which is increasing in the U.S. About 41.6% of Americans are nearsighted, up from 25% in 1971. When asked if there is a correlation with this and screens, Berland explains it’s not just the screens; it’s about an increase in “near visuals,” including reading books, throughout a modern lifestyle. Specifically because of this, children in Scandinavia are required to have a certain amount of time for outdoor recess, Berland notes. While kids are romping around outside, you shouldn’t worry about the blue light from the sun, either. “Ultraviolet light protection is key where the sun is concerned, as

Dr. Jerry E. Berland of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus at Thomas Eye Group

cumulative UV exposure over time can cause macular degeneration and cataracts, both diseases of the elderly eye,” says Berland, who recommends only buying sunglasses that block 90-95% ultraviolet rays and prefers polarized lenses that filter out reflected light from surfaces such as water and snow. Unfortunately for busy parents, there are more than a few compelling reasons to turn off your kids’ devices. The good news is they don’t have anything to do with their eyes. n

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H OM E

FAMILY FIRST

The airy living room is decorated with refurbished family pieces and sleek new furnishings.

A young couple transforms a 1940s Springlake residence into a chic first nest STORY:

Catherine and Ben Palmer, with baby Tripp, on the front steps of their refreshed Springlake home.

even months after Catherine and Ben Palmer got engaged, they decided to trade their Peachtree Hills rental for their first real home, a renovated 1940s bungalow in the Springlake neighborhood. “We wanted a neighborhood that had a community, and Springlake has a lot of young families,” Catherine says. “The house doesn’t look huge. It was very charming, and that was our style.” Upon closing in April 2017, the couple immediately began prepping the 3,783-squarefoot residence for their new life together. In

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Giannina S. Bedford PHOTOS: Sara Hanna

addition to painting every square inch of the interior and exterior, they replaced fixtures and refinished the original hardwood floors. “[The interior] was outdated with warm and orange tones,” Catherine recalls. “The goal was to make it look modern but timeless with unique pieces of furniture inspired by midcentury pieces from our family.” Incorporating heirlooms into the decor became an important component of the design, particularly since Ben’s grandfather died in 2016 and passed down a collection of vintage furnishings. Although many of the pieces needed to be refurbished, the trove included items by well-known names such as modern furniture and industrial designer Paul McCobb. To help pick the best options for their home,

the couple enlisted family friend and interior designer Andrea Henzlik. “We brought Andrea over to my grandparents’ house to tell us if we could use any of the furniture, and she was like, ‘Oh yeah’,” Ben says. The Palmers re-stuffed and recovered a curved sofa in black fabric, transforming it into a statement-making piece for the formal living room where it shares the spotlight with a wood root coffee table from South of Market. Paul McCobb side tables became nightstands in the master bedroom, resting beside the Restoration Hardware bed. The main level guestroom, one of two in the home, also features Ben’s grandfather’s vintage furnishings: a dresser with its original hardware and a wood bed, now topped with Serena & Lily linens.

Right: Two pendants from Circa lighting create a focal point in the kitchen, which features granite countertops and highend appliances. Below: The casual sitting area between the kitchen and formal living room is where the Palmers gather to unwind and watch television.

“The goal was to create a fresh and young feel to juxtapose the classic, midcentury pieces that were inherited.”–Andrea Henzlik

cious kitchen with a large island. Nearby, the dining space is furnished with a Restoration Hardware table and green velvet chairs with gold hardware from Anthropologie. Off the dining space, a porch with painted wicker furniture and a big screen TV creates the ideal place to watch a fall football game. “We love to host neighborhood get-togethers, friends for UGA football games or family for Thanksgiving,” Catherine says. The Palmers made sure to plan their home’s design around their life as a married couple, knowing they wanted to start a family. When they got pregnant with their son,

Among the sentimental decor, Henzlik and the homeowners filled in with new designer pieces from showrooms at the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center, rugs from Scott Antique Markets and custom artwork by Morgan Henzlik, Andrea’s daughter, as well as pieces selected from Pryor Fine Art. “The goal was to create a fresh and young feel to juxtapose the classic, midcentury pieces that were inherited,” says Henzlik, whose firm is based in Buckhead. “The clients really wanted a clean, monochromatic look, and they knew they wanted to incorporate black, white and green into the color scheme.” The mix of old and new is apparent from the entryway where an arched front doorway original to the house is flanked by custom gas lanterns from Carolina Lanterns & Lighting. Inside, the light-filled foyer sets a welcoming and refined tone with a custom chaise lounge covered in botanical Mokum fabric. The home’s open floor plan, a result of the 2008 renovation that took the residence from one bedroom to five, includes a spa-

Tripp, who will turn 1 in September, they decided to renovate the upstairs nursery and adjoining bathroom for the soon-to-arrive bundle of joy. The aquatic-themed space is mostly white with light touches of color. It features a daybed designed by Andrea Henzlik from Westside Custom Upholstery, curtains in Galbraith & Paul fabric and stuffed marine animals from Etsy mounted above the Restoration Hardware crib. The angled and arched ceiling—remnants from the room’s previous life as an attic—accentuate the coziness. “The goals for the nursery were to create a calm and peaceful space but still

Used as a sitting area by the previous owners, the Palmers opted to instead use this lightfilled space as a dining room.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

H OM E

Above: Window treatments in Penny Morrison fabric, McKenzie Dove art and built-ins with family photos create a tranquil and warm ambiance in the master bedroom.

THE PALMERS’ TOP 5 RENOVATION LESSONS

Left: The Palmers took the upstairs bathroom down to studs and picked out every detail, from the tile and hardware to the Christopher Farr Cloth Mille Feuille wallpaper that stretches across the walls and contoured ceiling. Below: The colorful ocean creatures add a pop of aquatic color to the mostly white nursery.

keep it whimsical and playful,” Henzlik says. “We also wanted to create a space that would grow with him.” Next door, Tripp’s bathroom is more contours and cuteness. Tiled marble floors, cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green with hardware by Addison Weeks and Christopher Farr Cloth wallpaper create a calming respite for bath time. “Our home is where we built our family. We bought it the year we got married, and now we have our son,” Catherine says. “We bought it knowing we wanted to start a family and kept that in mind every step of the way while we designed it.” n

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

1. Do research. Making selections on tile, wallpaper and paint color can be difficult. It makes the process easier when you have done research for inspiration on Pinterest to share with your designer or the consultant at the store. 2. Develop a clear budget. It’s important to make a budget and stick to it. Decide what’s most important to spend money on and find ways to cut back in other areas. 3. Make a plan. Plan when different contractors will come because sometimes you have people who specialize in different trades, and they must go in a specific order. For example, you have to lay tile after the large fixtures are in, but you shouldn’t paint until the end. 4. Start the process early. Many materials can take six weeks or more to get in, and contractors are difficult to schedule. If you start the process early, you may finish on time, but it’s easy for material or labor delays to get in the way. 5. Consider working with a designer. Oftentimes, a designer can pass along special discounts on materials that can offset the price of a designer or even save money.

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5 EASY WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME ECO-FRIENDLY 1. Veg out. Indoor plants spruce your decor and help purify the indoor air by ridding it of toxins. Even if you’re not a green thumb, hardy foliage such as a Ficus tree or aloe plant does the trick. 2. Think small (appliances). If you’re cooking a meal for one, use the toaster oven instead of the large oven. It uses nearly half as

much energy for the same result. It’s also smart to make use of timeefficient cooking appliances such as a pressure cooker or Instant Pot that reduce energy output. 3. Quit washing dishes. Most of the newer dishwashers are built to conserve water and can handle the extra grit on your plates, so forget washing your dishes by hand

or even pre-washing before loading. Just scrape off the big stuff, load and push the button. It could help you save thousands of gallons per year. 4. Bulb swap. Change out all your light bulbs for LEDs, and you’ll use 75% less energy than incandescent lighting, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, these eco-friendly fixtures last 25 times

longer and will save money on your energy bill. Win, win! 5. Shop second-hand. Every new purchase contributes to environmental toxins, but if you make someone’s trash your treasure, you can take some pressure off the problem. Visit Goodwill for kitchen wares and furnishings and kid’s consignment shops for toys. n

DESIGN NEWS happens—a studio where designers work with clients to create their personalized style. A bonus perk: a complimentary coffee and wine bar.

n Celebrating 10 years in the metro area, Nandina Home & Design in Sandy Springs is revamping its 2,700-squarefoot store. Set to open this summer, the new space feels more like a designer showroom than a typical furniture store and highlights the work of Nandina’s lead designers, John Ishmael and Jessie Lafalce, near the entry. With a collection of layered custom

furnishings, lighting, art and accessories, the store lets clients touch, feel, sit in and learn about the quality of Nandina’s customizable products. The store settings will change several times a year, and each showroom unveiling will be accompanied by a sample sale (think 30 to 70% off) of the previous merchandise. Behind the front showroom is where the real magic

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

n In an effort to adapt to the changing times, Harry Norman, Realtors has amped up its use of virtual tools to allow clients to continue the process of buying or selling a home amidst social distancing. From virtual caravans and open houses to dedicated web pages, videos and tours for properties, the company is providing the ability for buyers to shop from the comfort of home. And when it’s time to ink the contract, realtors, mortgage, title and insurance partners are also ready to process all documentation digitally.

“The use of virtual offerings has shifted from an option to a need,” says Luke Trigwell, Harry Norman’s director of marketing. “We are fortunate in that we are large enough to put substantial investment into providing our agents the best tools available, but also our operating model is nimble enough to adapt and respond very quickly.” The Harry Norman mobile app provides updated property information and in-app texting to directly contact an agent. One tool the company added this year creates a range of digital and print marketing materials automatically within hours of a property listing, which is making it easier for agents to promote a home virtually across various platforms. “There was an

existing need for us to offer these tools to maintain our position in the market as leaders in client service,” Trigwell says. “The COVID-19 epidemic has absolutely made this a more critical need.” n Looking for a little design boost? Try out the free design services at retailers West Elm, Crate & Barrel and Pottery Barn, all with locations in Buckhead. The no-stringsattached services include in-person or online chat with a member of the design crew, help with furniture selection, custom room design and placing orders (although a purchase isn’t required). To make an appointment or connect with a designer, visit crateandbarrel.com, westelm. com or potterybarn.com.

Jessica Davis Interior Designer & Founder

Interior Design Atlanta | New York atelierdavis.com 617.833.7244

June 2020 | Simply Buckheadâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

TA S T E MA K E R

in your designs. How can we give our antiques new life? I don’t think we’re ever going to see rooms filled with 100% antiques again. But thankfully they’re back in the mix, and I think it’s so helpful to have at least one real wooden piece to anchor a room. It’s all about balance, and when I’m working with antiques, I try to bring in lighter, more contemporary pieces that complement the dark wood and give it some contrast to really make it shine. Tell us more about starting your product line, Kevin Francis Design. I love product design, and so it was so exciting to create this line of rugs. I spent months pouring over patterns, colorways and photographs to finally land on a bird’s-eye view of the gardens of Versailles; I knew it was the perfect inspiration for my first collection. I took inspiration from traditional garden labyrinths and translated them to five patterns in raised bamboo silk on wool. The collection comes in five colorways with boxwood green being the first color I chose. I grew up with a boxwood garden, and to me, it’s a shade of green that you can never get tired of. I loved creating these fresh, graphic patterns from such a time-honored garden tradition.

Old Soul, New Style Buckhead interior design prodigy Kevin O’Gara dishes on design STORY:

Nicole Letts

t 22 years old, Buckhead native and fifth generation Atlantan Kevin O’Gara has already done what many interior designers only dream of. He is the editor of the highly successful design blog “Thou Swell” and is the founder of product studio Kevin Francis Design. His work has been featured in shelter publications such as Apartment Therapy, Better Homes and Gardens and Domino, and he’s collaborated with major retailers such as Home Depot and West Elm.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

To say he’s accomplished would be an understatement, but O’Gara is far from finished. Below, he shares more about his creative past and his visions for his design future. You started your design business as a teenager. How old were you when you landed your first client? My first “real” client—after decorating different rooms in my parents’ houses several times over—was a friend of my father’s who discovered my blog and Instagram. I think I was 18, and while I could make an inspiring design board, I was not yet experienced in

the personal aspects of managing clients, understanding their real goals and style, and managing the details like measuring everything (twice). Needless to say, it was a bumpy ride, but I learned so much in the process. How would you categorize your style as an interior designer? I like to describe my style as “new Southern” because it takes the foundation of traditional Southern design and refreshes it with a young twist. I honor the timeless proportions of classic style while infusing contemporary accents, a fresh color palette and a hint of the unexpected for a more interesting mix. It seems like brown furniture is back, and you use antiques often

What spots around town inspire you? I love a drive down Habersham to look at houses, Blue Heron nature preserve for a walk with the dog, the view from the top of Restoration Hardware, Pieces for unique modern decor, Huff Harrington for classic style and ADAC for the rest of my favorite showrooms. [I love] the cacio e pepe at St. Cecilia, Flower Child for a healthy bite, Anis for the most charming patio and cocktails at the new Garden Room in the St. Regis. I still haven’t outgrown the Buckhead bars for a night out with high school friends. What goals do you have for Kevin Francis Design this year? Participating in another showhouse is definitely a goal for me! I love the challenge of creating something out of pure imagination. My other goals include starting up my YouTube channel, publishing my cousin’s Midtown apartment design, dreaming up my next rug collection, reimagining my mom’s new modern Upper Westside townhouse, starting to paint again and finishing my business plan for a new hospitality company here in Atlanta. n

KEVIN O’GARA thouswell.com

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“Keep your focus on the result that you’re going for: to create a calm, organized environment that reduces everyday stress.”—Kat Duncan, UpTown Concierge June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

FA S H I ON

CLOSET CLEANOUT TRANSFORM THIS VITAL SPACE WITH TIPS FROM A PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER STORY:

Karina Antenucci

n over-cluttered and disorganized closet can feel stressful. It can also lead to overspending on repeat clothing items and wasted time trying to find your things. But it’s all too common to put off the time-consuming task of cleaning out this essential space until you can’t take it anymore. Ready for a change? Start by refreshing your mindset, confirming that you want this update and it might be somewhat uncomfortable. “It’s mentally daunting for some people to purge items they’ve had

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

for some time,” says Kat Duncan, professional organizer and owner of UpTown Concierge. “Keep your focus on the result that you’re going for: to create a calm, organized environment that reduces everyday stress.” Here, Duncan divulges her tried-andtrue closet organizing tips and tricks to expedite your DIY project.

THE BIG SORT Begin with making four piles for the items you want to keep, sell, trash and donate. This is the most timeconsuming part of the project. “Start in one section of your closet and tackle a 2-foot section at a time,” advises Duncan. “When you work

in small sections, it becomes much more manageable.” Take all of the items in each 2-foot space out of the closet and sort them in your bedroom. By the time you finish placing clothes and accessories into four piles, you should have an empty closet.

THE RE-PLACEMENT Now it’s time to figure out where everything is going to go back in. “It’s like a Tetris puzzle,” Duncan says. She recommends grouping all categories, such as tank tops, jeans, dresses and more together and bringing everything you are keeping back into your closet. Next, color coordinate within each item’s section.

For instance, group all white, shortsleeved shirts together next to the group of all red short-sleeved shirts, and so on. “It takes the guesswork out of dressing,” Duncan explains.

THE DRAWERS Organize the contents of your drawers by sectioning them off with suspension drawer dividers. This might mean splitting them in half, thirds, fifths or whatever works for what you have in each drawer, says Duncan. For example, separate dress socks from sporty, thong underwear from full coverage and sports bras from everyday bras. For T-shirts, Duncan suggests folding

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everything look seamless and won’t take up as much space as a plethora of mismatched ones. “When it’s easier on the eye, it’s easier on the brain,” says Duncan, who prefers the pantstyle hangers that have a bar across the bottom because they have less potential for tangling.

1. Black Premium Non-Slip Velvet Suit Hangers, $35.96 for 40

2. Suspension drawer dividers divvy up drawers to organize smaller items such as socks and underwear.

3. Clear, plastic shoe boxes— either with drop-down fronts (more expensive) or lids like a regular shoe box—keep dust off of shoes and make them easily stackable to maximize vertical space. These come in different sizes for shoes with heels, boots, men’s shoes and more. 4. White Montauk Woven Rectangular Storage Bin in medium, $24.99.

4. Matching lined baskets or bins in small, medium and large organize everything from bathing suits to scarves and hats. “I like baskets or bins with right angles instead of a ‘V’ shape because items are less likely to fall over and sit up straight, and they are more space efficient.”

5. White Bin Clip Labels, $9.99 for 3.

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5. Bin clips attach either a printed or written label to each basket so you know what’s inside. These come in a variety of colors.

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them and standing them up in the drawer to be able to see what you have, then separating every few with a divider to hold them upright.

THE SHELVES “Shift things around so your prime real estate is used for the clothes and accessories you need to touch on a daily or weekly basis,” advises Duncan. Since the top shelf of a closet isn’t as easily accessible, store hyper-seasonal or occasional items, such as your snow boots, there. Put everything that doesn’t need to be sitting out on a shelf into matching bins or baskets. To figure out how many containers and what sizes you need, Duncan shares this trick of the trade: “After purging and grouping like items together, you’ll have your hats in one pile, folded scarves in another, etc. Measure the length, width and height of each stack. Then, measure your shelves. Write it all down. This will help you determine what fits and how many baskets you need. Next, look for containers that meet the measure-

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ment requirements. If you are shopping in-store, take photos of all of your piles so you have a visual to reference.” As for purses, use acrylic dividers to line up clutches on your shelves and keep them orderly. Duncan also recommends stuffing any slouchy bags with bubble wrap or white tissue paper to keep their shapes on a shelf.

THE FINALE “It didn’t get disorganized overnight, so if it takes you a while to get through your DIY [closet refresh], that’s OK,” says Duncan. “If you have to do the purge and then come back in a week and do another sweep, do that. Whatever works for you or makes your life easier.” Simply don’t have the time to go at it on your own? Call in some professional help. A pro organizer can likely get the job done in a day, says Duncan. “We work faster because this is what we do. Just like anything that you could probably do yourself, the question is, do you want to spend the time doing it?” n

DETAILS Seasonal Swaps If you need to make space in your closet each season, put the really obvious clothing items (such as thick winter sweaters) in storage bins. Keep crossover items, such as a blouse that can be worn in spring and fall, in your closet so there’s less legwork throughout the year. And beware of storing clothes in an unfinished attic, as they can get moldy. Tricks for Kids When re-organizing children’s closets, Duncan suggests moving the things the kids need every day down to make them easy to reach. Go to town with a label maker on each shelf and drawer so kids can find and put back their own hats, play shorts and more. And skip the shoe boxes; instead, use a rack or cubbies to neatly line them up.

UpTown Concierge 2625 Piedmont Road N.E., Suite 380 Atlanta 30324 678.378.3690 theuptownconcierge.com The Container Store Buckhead Location 3637 Peachtree Road, Suite C Atlanta 30319 404.963.9602 Dunwoody Location 120 Perimeter Center West, Suite 100 Atlanta 30346 770.351.0065 thecontainerstore.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

B E AU TY

COLOR SAVVY LEVERAGE THESE EXPERT TIPS BEFORE YOU COLOR YOUR HAIR AT HOME STORY:

Jennifer Bradley Franklin

e all want shiny, vibrantly colored hair, whether it’s natural or chemically assisted. The spring closure of salons due to the pandemic had many Atlantans reaching for at-home hair color kits. Even when we’re not being asked to shelter in place, the allure of sprucing up our hair color in the comfort of our own homes is too much to resist. We tapped two local experts—Drew DeLaney, owner of Velvet Salon in Sandy Springs, and Jessica Goldstein, owner of J Gold Hair Salon in Buckhead—for insight on keeping locks looking their best.

Level and tone. “If you’re doing home color, don’t stray too far from the color that you currently are,” DeLaney explains. “The two most important things to know are the desired level and your desired tone.” The universal scale for hair color runs from one to 10, one being darkest black, and 10 is pale blonde.

The warm and cool tones include red, gold, beige and champagne, neutral and ash. Off-the-rack color kits will include both the level and tone, usually with words, letters and numbers. For instance, in the Excellence by L’Oréal Paris line, 9A is a light ash blonde, while 5G is a medium golden brown. When in doubt, Goldstein says, “text your stylist” who can help with the specifics.

“Color will not process any longer the longer it sits on your hair,” Goldstein explains about out-of-a-kit color meant for home use. Another important tip: “Do not pull color through to the ends because when permanent color hits hair that already has color on it, it’s going to make it darker,” she says, adding that it can also negatively impact previous highlights, making them brassy or reddish toned.

Gray away.

Tools of the trade.

Need to cover pesky gray roots? Look for permanent color. “If you’re debating between two colors, don’t get the lighter version; go a little bit darker,” says Goldstein. “If you get a color that is a little lighter than your natural roots, it’s going to turn your hair very warm or brassy.” When covering outgrowth, especially stubborn gray hairs, experts recommend leaving the color just on the roots for the maximum amount of time indicated on the instructions.

If you go with a kit, choose one that comes with all of the essentials, including developer, color and gloves. Many kits from major brands such as Revlon and Clairol even come with an after-color deep conditioner. If you plan to color your hair at home regularly, consider investing in a smock, hinged clips to section hair and a paint-style brush to make applying the color easier. Looking to make your color last between dyeing or visits to the salon?

Consult your regular stylist for advice on color brightening or depositing shampoo and conditioner. For instance, blondes who want to stave off brassiness might opt for violet-hued products to counteract yellow tones.

Leave it to the pros. When you want a dramatic change or to lighten your hair, head to the salon. “Never ever try to do highlights at home,” DeLaney says. The sentiment is echoed by Goldstein. “One million percent, leave bleaching to the professionals,” she says. Even with an abundance of caution, it’s possible to end up with less-than-desired results. Should this happen, don’t try to fix the messup yourself. “Don’t use any more color on your hair because when you come into the salon, we’re going to have to lift all of that extra color out,” Goldstein says, explaining that the process requires even more chemical intervention. n

Kitted Out These mail-order kits offer expert advice to ensure you get the right product for your goals.

Madison Reed Clients work with licensed colorists to determine which of more than 55 rich shades will best suit you. Not sure? Upload a photo to get even more targeted advice. Prices start at $22 for a monthly subscription. madison-reed.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

eSalon This online brand connects customers with a support team of stylists to create a custom color and personalized instructions according to your hair type and goals. More than 215,000 custom colors have been developed, and prices start at $22. esalon.com

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USE SLEEP HYGIENE TACTICS TO TAKE HEALTHY SLEEP INTO YOUR OWN HANDS STORY:

Nicole Letts

tarting a sleep hygiene routine might be the difference in quality, sound sleep and full daytime alertness. Why is this so important, besides feeling better every day? “Good sleep is needed by your brain to maintain higher levels of reasoning, problem solving and attention to detail, and to reduce your risk of depression,” says Dr. Howard Herman, president of ENT of Georgia South and CEO of South Atlanta Ambulatory Surgical Center in Buckhead. “It is also needed to maintain a well-functioning immune system, release growth hormones and reduce the risk of diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke.” For most adults, that means obtaining seven to eight hours of sleep. Before speaking with your health care provider about taking supplements or medications, try these expert tips to avoid counting sheep and start counting hours of sleep.

Prep for Bedtime Setting the stage for a good night’s sleep can be the difference in getting

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

a full night of shut-eye. Start with dimming lights and lowering sounds. “Sleep hygiene also includes making sure the temperature of our rooms and bodies is comfortable—for most adults it’s 60-67 degrees—and ensuring that both our bodies and sheets feel clean and fresh,” says Lynda Sarkisian, a marriage and family therapist at Kate Ferguson Therapy and Associates in Buckhead.

Move Up Dinnertime Herman recommends not eating or drinking anything but water for two to three hours before going to sleep. Eating late will reduce REM (dream) sleep, impact falling asleep and “increase nighttime awakenings, especially in women,” says Herman. “[It will also] boost nighttime insulin levels, which will cause a reduction in the growth-hormone release that is critical to maintaining muscle mass, mental function and heart health.”

Exercise Earlier Regular exercise can help us maintain quality sleep habits, but be careful about working out too close to bedtime. Herman says, “Strenuous aerobic exercise for at least 30

minutes per day will reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and increase the quantity of slow wave (deep) sleep, which is essential for restful sleep.” However, exercise right before shutting your eyes can make it more difficult to fall asleep due to raised body temperatures and heightened endorphins.

Avoid Sneaky Stimulants We’ve all heard that we should put down devices that emit blue light before bedtime (and haven’t done it), but it’s worth considering. Blue light can decrease melatonin development and increase alertness, but more than that, these devices typically keep our minds on the move. “Engaging in mentally stimulating activities before bedtime can interfere with falling asleep, as well as staying asleep throughout the night,” says Sarkisian. Another stimulant is caffeine, which she suggests avoiding past noon. At the end of the day, sleep is personal to each individual. What works for one person might not work for the next. Use these tips as general guidelines and modify as needed to suit your body and mind. n

Through trial and error, Sarkisian has developed a successful sleep rhythm for 30-plus years. “Remedies such as herbal supplements, the occasional prescription medication, aromatherapies and, most important, sleep preparation rituals have been most beneficial.” Here, she shares her own “tool kit” for healthy sleep: n Sound machine or fan for drowning out distracting sounds n Heating pad for relaxing body tension n Calming aromatherapy roller to soothe the senses and relax the mind n Cup of chamomile tea for more soothing n Melatonin or valerian root supplements when feeling extra stressed (Before taking any specific supplements or medications, she says it is important to speak with your health care provider.)

DETAILS ENT of Georgia South - Buckhead 1218 West Paces Ferry Road N.W., Suite 208 Atlanta 30327 470.223.0562 entgasouth.com Kate Ferguson Therapy and Associates 4200 Northside Pkwy., Bldg. 6 Atlanta 30327 678.439.1871 katefergusontherapy.com

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Get away to Serenbe and spend time outside in the sunshine and fresh air. Hike over 15 miles of nature trails, enjoy a horseback ride, take a family week away with Camp Serenbe, book a farm tour, shop our weekly Farmers Market and enjoy a meal at one of our many restaurants. Book your stay with The Inn at Serenbe nestled in the beautiful countryside of Chattahoochee Hills, an easy 30-mile drive southwest of Atlanta.

R E S E RV E Y O U R S T AY | S E R E N B E I N N . C O M

TA S T E MA K E R

Ph.D. A year later, she expanded the mission of encouraging women in their pursuit of emotional and spiritual health, and opened Cultivate Counseling in Buckhead, where she and three other counselors provide sessions for women and couples. What makes Cultivate stand out? Whether through our free Gatherings or our affordable counseling, Cultivate gives women access and opportunity to mental health resources. What types of themes do you bring into the bi-monthly Gatherings? Our topics include anxiety, how to face change with confidence, how we heal, cultivating healthy relationships and more. We want it to be a place for all ages, life stages and walks of life to feel comfortable. It’s a place to learn and grow with other women. How did you discover your passion for speaking and counseling others? My story is a winding one. I was [once] a vocal performance major. Then, I was a teacher for five years at Marist School [in Brookhaven] before going to grad school for my master’s in professional counseling. I stand in awe that nothing has been wasted in my life, whether it was my own personal journey or my years as a musician. I use it all each day when I sit with clients or when I give a talk. Why did you decide to focus on helping women? Through my own journey of losing myself in relationships and life choices, and then healing and discovering my own voice and worth, I’ve had a heart for serving women, helping them to step into their full potential and finding freedom from things they struggle with.

ROOM TO GROW Mazi Robinson encourages women along their personal journeys STORY:

Karina Antenucci

PHOTO: Sara

Hanna

few years ago, Mazi Robinson, a licensed professional counselor and speaker, started noticing a trend in Atlanta and across the country. More than ever, women were turning out for women’s-only gatherings and asking

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

for counseling referrals on Facebook. “It seemed women were hungry for deep, hard truth, the kind of truth that leads you to healing and freedom,” says Robinson. “I began to ponder if there was a way to encourage women to be mentally, emotionally and spiritually healthy.” For three years, Robinson brainstormed and kept a journal for her myriad ideas about how to help

women cultivate a life of joy, courage and freedom. In 2017, she and some friends decided to bring one to life by planning a free motivational event, Cultivate [now called Gatherings], at Robinson’s Sandy Springs home. They hoped to have 35 attend but ended up with 125 RSVPs and moved it to Kairos Church, also in Sandy Springs. “We were blown away by the response and have been meeting there every other month ever since,” says Robinson, who is a certified facilitator in The Daring Way, a method of courage-building based on the research of Brené Brown,

You are raising two young boys. How does your work provide insight into that job? Traditionally, boys are raised to shut off from emotions, detach from relationships and live under this umbrella of “succeed, win and don’t be weak.” While I love for them to be their rough-andtumble selves, I try to be intentional about teaching them to identify and talk about their feelings so that someday they can have vulnerable, hard conversations with the ones they love. n CULTIVATE 3525 Piedmont Road Bldg. 7, Suite 408 Atlanta 30305 404.624.6740 cultivateatlanta.com

ON S TAG E

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LITERARY

Genre Bender P50

Award-winning investigative journalist Steven Cooper morphed into a serial murder mystery author.

“Some nights my characters show up and keep me awake.” —Steven Cooper June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

O N S TAGE

When Spring Mason teaches children to act, she emphasizes three rules: “The first is have fun, the second is be brave and the third is encourage others.”

Sara Hanna

Child’s Play Buckhead resident Spring Mason teaches children the art of acting STORY:

Amanda Morris

pring Mason never wanted to be a star, but she has headlined in many theater productions around Atlanta. These days, she prefers to stay behind the scenes, teaching acting to thousands of Buckhead children. “I truly love teaching,” says Mason, the artistic director and owner of the Buckhead-based Atlanta Children’s Theatre Company. When Mason started high school, her family moved from Miami to Conyers. She wanted to shake her homesickness and decided to join a drama club. “I almost accidentally fell into the theater,” explains Mason. “This lady handed me a piece of paper and asked me to read it. I didn’t even know enough to be afraid or nervous. I just started reading, and my mind immediately went into that imagination.” This started her life-long love of theater. After Mason graduated from high school, she acted in her first professional production, Oklahoma!, at the former Peachtree Playhouse.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Mason performed in theater productions during college summers while attending the University of Georgia. She earned a bachelor’s in journalism with a major in radio-TV-film and a minor in acting. In Mason’s last semester, she made a pivot in her career path. On the advice of her professor, she auditioned for a part in the MFA graduate students’ thesis play. She was cast in a lead role as an undergraduate, and the head of the drama department offered her a full acting scholarship for a master’s degree. “Other than an internship at CNN, I never worked in journalism. The theater has always pulled me back in,” she recalls. The Buckhead resident has performed throughout Atlanta, including at Horizon Theatre, Theatrical Outfit and Theatre Gael. She was also a performer in the Resident Acting Company at the Academy Theatre in Midtown, where she was first asked to teach an adult acting class. She continued work as a teaching artist for the drama department of the Governor’s Honors Program, where she taught gifted and tal-

ented high school students. She then shifted into directing, first with GHP and then at Peachtree Presbyterian Church, where she directed the Vacation Bible School program and large group worship services for elementary and pre-school children. In 2007, Mason launched Atlanta Children’s Theatre Company. “It is a culmination of two great loves of my life: acting and teaching,” says Mason of starting her business. “I was following my heart.” Mason’s company travels to many Buckhead and city schools, and teaches theater in after-school programs. “My motto is: have drama, will travel!” says Mason, who also has a small studio in Little Five Points. “I’d love to expand our ability to do full children’s productions closer to Buckhead.” The company holds summer camps at The Lovett School, Pace Academy and other locations. The camps typically range from a weeklong option for first through sixth graders working on their musical theater skills and rehearsal techniques to a two-week advanced course for fifth

to ninth graders that culminates with a full musical production. Additionally, Mason offers coaching, classes, workshops, casting help and a partnership with the Horizon Theatre in Little Five Points for the annual production of Madeline’s Christmas, which she directs. In her limited free time, Mason enjoys singing, doing voice-over work and painting. But her true joy is seeing children’s eyes light up when they learn something new. She believes theater gives children confidence, teaches them to move forward after rejection and to face their fears. “I’m so grateful that I’ve had this opportunity to mix these two great passions—theater/storytelling and children. It’s a blessing and a privilege,” says Mason. n ATLANTA CHILDREN’S THEATRE COMPANY 2870 Peachtree Road, Suite 619 Atlanta 30305 404.550.1600 atlantachildrenstheatre.com

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ART

The artist’s organic flower paintings are a bright spot in a collector’s home. Her original works begin at $325 and prints start at $50.

YOUNG AT ART Kate Waddell brings her whimsical still life paintings to Atlanta

ate Waddell’s art journey almost ended after her first painting class at the College of Charleston. The session, which involved painting a draped towel, revealed Waddell’s classmates “smooth and classic lines and gradients.” Her painting, however, looked much more geometric and saturated. “When I stepped back to look at mine, it looked like it belonged in the Cubism movement. I saw immediately that I innately painted differently than everyone in the class, and I didn’t know until later that that was actually a good thing,” she recalls. Thankfully, she returned for more lessons and earned her degree in Studio Art. Today, Waddell captures a whimsical and colorful world with subjects ranging from flowers to fruit. The 27-year-old Columbus, Georgia native and burgeoning artist recently moved to Atlanta to further her ca-

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

reer. She set up shop in Buckhead within Tula Art Center at 75 Bennett Street, which shares a space with The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia, and houses several other artists. It is exactly what Waddell was looking for when she chose to move here. “I was always intimidated by living in such a big city like Atlanta, but after frequent visits to see friends, I really fell in love with it and all it has to offer for creatives,” she explains. Waddell’s most striking works are her large-scale flower still lifes. Using inspiration photos of arrangements found on Pinterest, she paints their organic shapes. Stems bend with frond weight, leaves spill over edges and petals protrude from various angles. Her work, which is sold through her eponymous website and at Gregg Irby Gallery on the Westside, is playful and youthful yet elegant

and poised. Waddell often chooses punchy background hues such as peacock or chartreuse to complement her splashy florals painted in pinks, oranges and purples. “As my style continues to evolve, I think what makes it consistently my own is my innate stroke and use of high-contrast colors. I am thankful for how different my style continues to be!” she says. Instagram has played a key role in gaining the up-and-coming artist some attention. There, Waddell showcases her work and tips off her 14,000 followers to new releases. “I doubt that without social media I would be where I am today with my art. It’s great to be able to connect with others and to be exposed to such different styles. Social media has made it much more possible for people to be professional creatives,” she says. Recently, Waddell has been drawn

STORY:

Nicole Letts

back into portraiture and has been especially enamored by post-Impressionist painter Vincent Van Gogh. “I fell in love with painting through portraiture, so I would love to revisit them for a collection,” she explains. Coming first, however, is a summer florals series, her first collection completed since her move, that the artist hopes to release this season. After that, she aspires to start her own line of textiles and fabric for home decor. Either way, Waddell won’t be straying too far from her roots. “I’m very drawn to bold and high-contrast color combinations, and I think I will always want to paint flowers. I can’t seem to stay away from them!” n

KATE WADDELL katewaddellart.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckheadâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

L I T E R ARY

Genre Bender Author Steven Cooper’s murder mysteries are filled with spiritual and supernatural elements

orking around the globe as an investigative reporter for 20 years, Steven Cooper was at the top of his game. He won the prestigious Edward R. Murrow award for breaking news coverage in addition to numerous honors from the Associated Press and Emmy Awards for his investigative and consumer reporting at KNXV-TV in Phoenix and WKMG-TV in Orlando. But despite his success as a journalist, he describes writing his murder mystery-spiritual-supernatural novels in the Gus Parker, Alex Mill series as much more fun. Cooper, who lives in the area where Buckhead, Sandy Springs and Brookhaven come together, wrote his first book, Desert Remains, in 2016. Pondering what to do next, he attended an Atlanta Writers Club conference where he met his agent, Ann Collette

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

of the Reese Agency. She quickly sold it to Seventh Street Books, an imprint of Prometheus Books. “Even though my original intention was to write only one book, the sale was contingent on two more, so I headed for my computer,” he says. The results were Dig Your Grave, published in 2018, and his most recent murder mystery, Valley of Shadows, published in 2019. “I like to set my novels in familiar locations,” Cooper says. “When I lived in Arizona, I bought a house in a mountain preserve and stumbled across petroglyphs carved in the rocks. I was fascinated with the cave drawings, which became my inspiration for Desert Remains about a deranged killer who leaves his victims’ bodies behind in caves and taunting clues in the desert. The series revolves around police

VALLEY OF SHADOWS (Seventh Street Books $15.95) is available for purchase at amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Books-AMillion, walmart.com and target.com.

STORY:

Mickey Goodman

Detective Alex Mills, who befriends an “intuitive psychic” named Gus Parker. The two unlikely colleagues join forces to solve a series of mysteries in the desert. Not wanting his books to be typical murder mysteries, Cooper incorporates the spirituality of the landscape, Native American art and supernatural elements. “Writing fiction is not as romantic as people think,” says the author. “It’s a job, but it does get my blood flowing. When I’m in the zone, it’s like having a runner’s high. If I’m not in the zone, I figure I’m not meant to write that day. Other days, all it takes is a cup of coffee to get the juices flowing again.” Cooper’s process is straightforward. Before he begins a new project, he crafts chapter summaries that build the novel. He begins with a place where the action occurs and then asks himself, “What story do I

want to tell, and where do I want to tell it?” The rest comes together fairly quickly and the characters “show up.” Some, such as Mills and Parker, are part of the concept. Others become more complex as the storyline takes place in his head. “Some nights, the characters keep me awake until I have a clear idea of what they are doing next. I get up and write everything down because I don’t want a great plot twist to be forgotten. Journalism may have been my chosen career, but I much prefer sitting at my laptop creating worlds,” Cooper says. His next murder mystery, still untitled, takes place in Atlanta and involves a homicide detective, a rabbi and a mysterious killer who goes by many names. “It’s meant to be a standalone, but if the publisher wants a series, I’ll consider it,” he says. n

Shop from the comfort of your home by using our virtual shopping tools and the team’s expertise to find your perfect floor.

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June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

S P E C I A L A DVERTI SI NG SECTION

GEORGIA PEACH MOVERS We are “GEORGIA” Peach Movers, a 5-star moving company on a mission to exceed every client’s expectations by providing the best moving experience. We also give back by donating a meal to a food insecure family after every move. l Mention this ad for $50 off your next move.

THE

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LIGHT

We are proud to introduce Simply Buckhead’s NEW special advertising promotion: THE GREEN LIGHT. Nyssa Green is a well known influencer throughout Metro Atlanta. She has attracted a large audience through her TV, Print and Radio segments.

SCOTT ANTIQUE MARKETS

People look to her for advice and suggestions on local products and services, and she is now bringing her talents and influence to Simply Buckhead.

Scott Antique Markets are America’s favorite treasure hunts! We host the world’s largest indoor antique show the second weekend of every month at the Atlanta Expo Centers. With an astonishing 3,500 exhibit booths filled with antiques and designer items, there is sure to be something for everyone! 3650 & 3580 Jonesboro Road SE, Atlanta 30354 740.569.2800 l scottantiquemarkets.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE To Have The Smile You’ve Always Wanted

CRAB404

HAVE YOU EVER SAID ANY OF THESE THINGS?

Crab404, located in the heart of the perimeter off of 285 Roswell Rd exit, opened in September 2019. Our food is fresh from the sea and ready to serve, straight from the Gulf of Mexico. Crab404 offers a laid back atmosphere with a full service bar and TV’s. The dining area can host up to 100 customers, with a view of the award-winning kitchen. Reservations recommended.

“I wish I loved my smile in pictures again….”

4969 Roswell Road, Atlanta 30342 l 770.457.7161 l crab404.com

“It seems like others get ahead in life thanks

“Sure would be great if I could laugh and not be embarrassed….”

to their beautiful smile...”

Visit https://app.smilevirtual.com/Dr-Hugh-Flax for Complimentary Virtual Consultations and learn more about getting the “smile you’ve always wanted”.

BODY AWARENESS STUDIO Leslie Clayton, founder and director of the Body Awareness Studio, Balanced Body Master Instructor known for using Pilates and integrative tools to relieve pain and rebalance the nervous system after physical or emotional stress. Inspired by the body’s bio intelligent wisdom for healing, she gives her students new ways of thinking and moving in life. She’s n advocate for survivors of sexual abuse and believes that Pilates is a powerful resource for healing. Advanced Higher Brain Living facilitator, Natural Rhythms Creation coach and Heart IQ coach.

5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd Ste 430 Atlanta, GA 30342

404.255.9080

flaxdental.com

5549 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30342 404.252.7550 l BodyAwarenessStudio.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

COV E R S T ORY

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

TRAVEL INSPIRATION, TOOLS AND ADVICE FOR CLOSE-BY GETAWAYS

PHOTO: Sara

Hanna

This year has proven a tricky one for those driven by wanderlust, with shelter-

Our team of writers highlights

in-place directives and travel restrictions confining us to our homes for the

six destinations you’ll want to

better part of the spring. Still, we’d argue that you don’t have to travel far to travel

add to your travel bucket list.

well. While scoring a new stamp in your well-worn passport is a thrill, there’s

Whether everything is back

something likewise magical about discovering a place closer to home. Perhaps

to normal or awaiting the days

more so, since it’s easier to experience those nearby spots again and again.

of a full reopening, consider this your resource for future trips

Here, you’ll find our guide to must-see

festivals based on your interests,

in and around home. As these

spots around Georgia (many absent from

edu-tainment opportunities to keep

terrific staycation ideas prove,

the guidebooks), tips for scoring the

children engaged and much more.

you don’t have to venture far to

best travel deals, road trip snacks made

Stumped for ideas about where to

feed your spirit of discovery.

here in the Peach State, Southern

wander within your hometown?

—Jennifer Bradley Franklin

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Serenbe offers a variety of accommodations to fit your style, from the rustic guest house (pictured) to the modern loft.

Searching for Solace For a tranquil trip, Serenbe offers a close-to-home option Giannina S. Bedford

ore and more, my idea of a blissful getaway is a destination that offers some space, stillness and serenity— maybe a faraway island or isolated mountain retreat. Oftentimes, however, somewhere closer to home is a more realistic option. In fact, I’ve successfully satisfied my craving for “quiet” just 40 miles from Atlanta at Serenbe, where the 1,400 acres of nature-meets-nurture is just what my soul needs to recharge. Since Atlanta restaurateurs Steve and Marie Nygren established the EarthCraft-certified community in Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia, more than a decade ago, Serenbe has been a model for sustainable living—not to mention stunning architecture and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Beginning with one home in 2004, the utopia-like locale has grown to a community of almost 700 residents who reside in one of four Europeanstyle hamlets, each with its own commercial center focused on what the founders see as the elements of a “well-lived” life: arts, agriculture, health and well-being and education. There is also a 25-acre organic farm, a seasonal farmers market and other year-round programming, including lectures, an artist-in-residence program and professional theater company, Serenbe Playhouse, that

brings productions to life in the outdoors. Sounds idyllic, right? Luckily, you don’t have to own a home to enjoy the holistic ambiance. Just make a reservation at the 27-room inn and spend a few days soaking it all in. Situated between six buildings, inn accommodations range from charming rooms in a restored 1905 farmhouse to entire cottages, some original to the property. A total of 23 homes from townhomes and lofts to bungalows are available to book in the Serenbe community. Stays include afternoon tea, evening sweets

and a full country breakfast as well as access to all Serenbe’s amenities, including 15 miles of trails through preserved forest and wildflower meadows that connect homes to restaurants and businesses. If you do one thing during your stay, take your time exploring. Meander the intricate stone labyrinth by the lake, go for a horseback ride or take a tour of Serenbe Farms and feed the animals. As you walk the picture book streets, enjoy a snack from the edible landscaping (blueberry bushes and fig, plum, apple and pear trees)

Mia Yakel Photography

STORY:

Serenbe’s One Mado building features three floors of health and wellness-focused businesses, all anchored by Scandinavian restaurant Halsa on the ground floor.

and forget about Father Time. If some pampering is what you need, head to the Mado district, the community’s newest hamlet focused on wellbeing. In 2019, the central business district was joined by the One Mado building, a threestory commercial structure designed by Smith Hanes Studio that brings together a variety of wellness practitioners. The building, centered around a fountain and open-air sculptural staircase designed by Andrew Crawford, is home to a yoga studio, the Gym at Mado with an indoor cycling studio, the expanded Spa at Serenbe and various healthrelated proprietors who are at the ready to assist with everything from GI mapping and chiropractic services to nutritional advice. On the building’s first floor is Halsa, a Scandinavian-inspired restaurant that offers a vegetable-forward menu, fresh juices, build-your-own-bowls and Swedish specials. As the newest addition to the Serenbe culinary scene, Halsa joins a family of well-known, farm-to-table eateries, including The Farmhouse at Serenbe and The Hill, both of which offer locally sourced produce and a seasonally changing menu. Blue Eyed Daisy, Serenbe’s first official culinary retail space to open in 2005, continues to be a favorite for its breakfast and baked goods. The charming meeting spot is also designated as the smallest Silver LEED-certified building in the U.S.—an example of Serenbe’s trailblazing from day one. Over the past decade and a half, Serenbe has continued to innovate and morph for the greater good, expanding its offerings and growing in size and recognition. The aim is to do this while embracing the founding vision of being a biophilic community where people live fully connected to nature. It is exactly this bond between human and nature that I find myself searching for during my away-from-home retreats nowadays, even if it is just 40 miles away. n

The Inn at Serenbe 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Road Chattahoochee Hills 30268 770.463.2610 serenbeinn.com serenbe.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Asher Moss

COV E R S T ORY

The writer (right) celebrates her her sister Maggie’s 25th birthday at the rooftop bar.

Top to Bottom Cool From the scenic rooftop to the sultry basement, once you check in at Hotel Clermont, you won’t want to leave STORY:

Nicole Letts

hen dreaming up a surprise for my sister’s 25th birthday last summer, I kept returning to a sister staycation at Hotel Clermont. Maggie is 10 years my junior, so I knew I needed something hip enough for her yet swanky enough for me. As an experienced traveler, I’ve developed quite the list of accommodation expectations over the years: attentive staff, stylish rooms, excellent food options and a sociable atmosphere, to name a few. Hotel Clermont ticks all of those boxes. I booked the hotel’s clever “the first one is on us” offer for our overnight visit. It comes with one rooftop drink ticket per person; an amuse-bouche and dessert at the hotel’s terrace-

level French-inspired restaurant, Tiny Lou’s; complimentary access to the landmark Clermont Lounge; and a 24-hour check-out period. That last perk was the most intriguing. If I was going to start my evening with rooftop drinks only to bookend it with beers at Atlanta’s oldest strip club, I was definitely not setting a next morning alarm. Maggie and I arrived at the hotel around 4 p.m. on a rare, pleasantly temperate summer afternoon. The Palm Springs-chic lobby with its peacock chairs and mod-inspired sofas were a postcard perfect greeting that felt like we had entered a different era. While the building went up in 1924 as apartments, it was later revamped into a hotel in 1939. It’s heyday, however, began in 1968 when The Clermont Lounge, the city’s first strip club, was born. Later, the hotel fell into disrepair, eventually sitting empty for nearly nine years. That’s when Oliver Hos-

Asher Moss

Hotel Clermont’s terrace level restaurant, Tiny Lou’s, features French-American cuisine.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

pitality stepped up with a more than $20 million renovation that brought the landmark to today’s standards. The hotel’s decor, with its clean lines, kitschy yet chic wallpaper, pop art and geometric carpeting, is a nod to a bygone time while keeping it contemporary, too. The welcome beverages—Pabst Blue Ribbon beers—further drive home the hotel’s we’re-here-for-a-good-time vibes. We made our way to our room, a king-standard with ample space for two girls on the town to get dolledup, crack open our beers and decide on our first stop: the rooftop for sunset drinks. Here, under the iconic “Hotel Clermont” marquis tower, AstroTurf offers year-round greenspace, and the bar offers year-round drinks. We opted for the specialty: frosé, the ideal millennial pink, frozen wine refreshment. Rattan chairs and benches face Ponce de Leon for views of Midtown and surrounding neighborhoods. We toasted to 25, took a sisterselfie and enjoyed the scenery. Next, we headed downstairs to Hotel Clermont’s on-site restaurant, Tiny Lou’s. The ambiance is that of a French brasserie where cafe tables and cane-backed chairs complement oversized, tufted caramel leather booths. Helmed by chef Jeb Aldrich, the menu is a surprising blend of French-meets-American cuisine

such as seasonal crêpes punctuated with Southern accents like Vidalia onion soup. Make sure to save room for chef Claudia Martinez’s sweet creations. Whether the dessert cart rolls over bearing a ruby chocolate concoction or another of her specialties, ending with a sweet is a must. While at this point in the evening we could have had after dinner drinks at the bustling lobby bar, we decided to go to the stuffy basement for a different kind of nightcap: beers and a show at The Clermont Lounge. I had never been to the lounge before, and my sister insisted she be with me for my first visit. We stayed for one drink and a few dances, but the smoky air choked the lively atmosphere, plus a plush bed was waiting for us just a few floors up, and the sooner we rested our eyes, the sooner we could find ourselves back at Tiny Lou’s for the storied brunch complete with Martinez’s cinnamon rolls. We were ladies with priorities. The best part of a staycation at Hotel Clermont is once you check in, there’s no reason to leave the property. You could take a quick jaunt down the street to Ponce City Market or head to the adjacent Poncey-Highland neighborhood to explore, but with several bars and restaurants at your fingertips, why would you? This is a staycation after all. Kick up your heels, relax and stay a while at Hotel Clermont. n

Hotel Clermont 789 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E. Atlanta 30306 470.485.0485 hotelclermont.com

Right: Gaby’s by the Lake serves up a lake view with its brisket street tacos and black Angus skirt steak. Below: Get your shooting fix at the scenic Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds.

Lake Life STORY:

Nearby Oconee offers a staycation combining adventure with luxurious accommodations

Karina Antenucci

An Executive Suite at The RitzCarlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee boasts a king canopy bed worth diving into.

ake Oconee offers an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city with a convenient 1 ½ hour, door-to-door drive from Buckhead that delivers serenity. This tranquil lake east of Atlanta is less populated than its closer cousin Lanier and offers much to explore both on and off the water. There are, of course, several Airbnb house rental options along the lake, but if you’d prefer the hands-off benefits and amenities that come with lavish resort accommodations, you’re in luck. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is at your service, providing a host of possibilities for your stay, including rooms and suites within the hotel as well as spacious cottages and four-bedroom lake houses. The property is home to a heated outdoor infinity pool with a children’s area, several dining options and a palatial 30,000-squarefoot spa with an indoor pool. On your drive in from Atlanta, make sure to add a stop at Farmview Market to your GPS for gourmet snacks to stock your fridge or a breakfast or lunch bite any day but Sunday. The indoor market has gourmet items and local farm-fresh produce as well as a restaurant and smoothie bar. Seasonally on Saturdays, there’s a

true local farmers market outside. More farm fun with the family can be had in the summertime at Hemi Blueberry Farm, where you can pick blackberries, blueberries and muscadine grapes during the season (June 1-Aug. 15). Call ahead, as picking is by appointment only. For more adventurous pursuits on land, head to Rock Hawk for 30 miles of hiking and biking trails and an archery range (bring your own equipment), plus an ancient effigy in the shape of a bird. The lake area is also home to Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds, a full-service, 100-acre facility featuring a 20-station sporting clays course, five-stand shooting range, sporting clays instructional and games area, air rifle range and archery range. Those not into shooting can

also fish, kayak, canoe, hike and explore the offroading course. Speaking of courses, Lake Oconee is known for its golf and has no shortage of greens. Five championship courses designed by the game’s best-known architects such as Jack Nicklaus and Rees Jones offer 99 holes of play. Serious golfers may want to check out The Reynolds Kingdom of Golf experience at The Ritz, which includes custom clubfittings and private instruction. A stay on Oconee wouldn’t be complete without time on the water. Young Harris Water Sports is a go-to for all your lake exploits, providing boat, kayak and jet ski rentals and towable water toys. The company even delivers the rental equipment, so you don’t have to lift a finger. After all that activity, there’s no shortage of restaurants and watering holes to fill your motor back up. Don’t miss the fish tacos, pulled-

pork sandwiches and free live music on Saturdays in the summer at the family-friendly Harbor Club Boathouse Restaurant, which is “drive up or boat up.” Gaby’s by the Lake at The Ritz-Carlton is another casual, lakeside choice, serving delicious lobster grilled cheese, stone-baked pizzas and house-made ice cream sandwiches. If beer is your thing, check out Oconee Brewing Company for a pint and a craft brewery tour, or fill up your growler with brews such as the Flightless Saison, a Belgian-style farmhouse ale. Full of “lake life” adventures and with so much to explore, Lake Oconee is sure to draw you back in for more. n

Farmview Market farmviewmarket.com Harbor Club Boathouse Restaurant harborclub.com Hemi Blueberry Farm hemiblue.com Oconee Brewing Company oconeebrewingco.com Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds reynoldslakeoconee.com The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee ritzcarlton.com Rock Hawk rockhawk.org Young Harris Water Sports yhwatersports.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

COV E R S T ORY

Modern Metamorphosis The Candler Hotel is bringing new life—and reasons to visit—downtown

friend planning to be in Atlanta last summer asked where she should stay. I was quick to steer her away from downtown and towards my favorite properties in Buckhead and Midtown, saying, “People work downtown, but that’s not where most Atlantans hang out.” Had she visited after The Candler Hotel, a new Curio Collection by Hilton, opened last fall, my recommendation would have been different. When the building was commissioned in 1906 by The CocaCola Company’s original owner, Asa Griggs Candler, the marbleclad, Beaux-Arts structure was one of Atlanta’s tallest buildings and its first steel skyscraper. The 17-story,

STORY:

250,000-square-foot edifice was most recently an office building before sitting empty for a few years and undergoing its jaw-dropping transformation into the boutique hotel. I got to spend an all-too-short staycation in the property just before Christmas. I’d viewed photos of the newly refurbished and transformed interiors, but seeing them in person was awe-inspiring. Because the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, San Franciscobased interior designer Nicole Hollis, in concert with the owners, chose not to alter the structure itself. That decision turned out to be both a challenge and a benefit. She blended old and new, highlighting the Gothic and Renaissance elements throughout, restored the marble staircase and Tiffany light fixtures, and New crown molding, furnishings in soft hues and custom magnolia-print draperies make each guest room feel special.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Above: The welcoming lobby has imposing brass light fixtures, plush seating and a front desk topped with Georgia pink marble. Above right: The cozy library features rugs original to the building, discovered during the renovation.

Jennifer Bradley Franklin added historically accurate moldings and pink marble vanities, a touch inspired by the Georgia marble found in the basement. The owners were inspired by many of the lush gardens in and around Atlanta as well as the South’s flora and fauna, so much of the upholstery features botanical motifs, most notably the bold magnoliaprint curtains, designed by Hollis’ team. The designer created several libraries for guests to curl up with a good book or have a meeting. Eagleeyed visitors may spot law tomes from the office of famed attorney and Civil Rights activist Johnny Cochran, who once had offices here. Within the library lounge, rugs that are original to the building and discovered during the renovation adorn the floors. The hotel is a wonder, managing to feel both glamorous and approachable. Its ideal location within easy striking distance from many of downtown Atlanta’s prime attractions means guests won’t want for things to do. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Georgia Aquarium, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, World of Coca-Cola and Mercedes-Benz Stadium are a mile or less away. Some of them are even visible from the hotel’s floor-to-ceiling

windows that were meticulously preserved during the renovation. While there are a handful of worthy eateries nearby—the booths at The Municipal Market, otherwise known as the Sweet Auburn Curb Market, among them—The Candler Hotel is home to Chef Hugh Acheson’s By George. The stylish restaurant and bar are decidedly French, though they draw heavily on Southern ingredients. The building’s former groundlevel bank has been reincarnated into an elegant dining room with original grey and white Georgia marble columns topped with Ionic scrollwork and glittering chandeliers. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here daily. The food and decor make every meal—even my simple breakfast of coffee and Anson Mill oats with candied pecans—feel like an event to be savored. Beverage Director Kellie Thorn makes such nuanced and artfully conceived cocktails using artisan, small-batch spirits and creative botanicals that a tipple alone makes the restaurant worth a trip. When Candler commissioned the stately building bearing his name in 1906, downtown Atlanta was the place to be for Georgia’s most important people. I’m happy to say that, thanks to the thoughtful renovation and exemplary hospitality offered by the team at The Candler Hotel, I’ve got a downtown spot ready to recommend to my own treasured guests. n

The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton 127 Peachtree St. N.E. Atlanta 30303 404.523.1200 hilton.com

Above: Whole branzino is cooked to perfection on Fia’s woodfire grill. Left: Standard king rooms are anything but typical. Here, plush velvets and rich wood tones create a warm environment. Below: Nothing beats a classic burger, and the one from Mr. B. Bar hits the spot.

Exotic Local(e)

Below: Grab a seat by the fire and sink into tufted leather in the lobby’s library.

The Burgess Hotel transports you to international destinations without leaving Buckhead STORY:

Nicole Letts

’m a self-described staycation aficionado. The first local trip in my memory was the year my mom booked a cabin for me and a few friends at Lake Lanier Islands for my birthday. In college, my Phi Mu pledge class sisters and I booked rooms at a nearby hotel for our senior bar crawl. A few years after that, my now-husband surprised me with an overnight at The Glenn in downtown Atlanta for my 24th birthday. Since, the two of us have celebrated milestones or just plain Tuesdays with various staycations around town. I’ve even been known to book a hotel room by myself. Why not? A staycation is my favorite way to escape without the research and traveling that comes with traditional vacations. When I heard Buckhead was getting its first boutique hotel, I knew I had to book a stay. Billed as “an internationally inspired” boutique property, The Burgess offers just over 100 rooms, including seven suites and one penthouse, all designed by Kimberley Miller of Duncan Miller Ullmann. While the standard rooms

have familiar amenities, each of the unique suites are themed to reflect international destinations beloved by the owners. The Balinese Suite is reminiscent of Indonesia, while the London Hip Suite captures the U.K. While those spaces are certainly worth the upgrade, you won’t be disappointed by the king bedroom, the hotel’s standard offering, which I checked into in early January on the night of the grand opening. Each king room is a generous 330 square feet, including a corner velvet banquette sofa and a small bistro table, an area that makes it feel like a suite. This was my favorite perk. Most hotels offer a desk facing a wall or a small sofa for lounging, but to have oversized, plush seating for working, eating or relaxing was a treat. It became my afternoon destination for answering a few emails before venturing downstairs. Named for co-owner Freny Jokhi’s father, Keki Bunshah, who organized the first Indian expedition to climb Mount Everest, Mr. B. Bar has seats for 60 throughout the space, including traditional bistro tables as well as buttery leather counter stools at the sleek bar. Here, guests can enjoy a range of craft cocktails and

other beverages while noshing on bites from the adjacent restaurant, Fia. My favorite spot at Mr. B.’s was the library where expedition photographs adorn the ornamental marble fireplace and books line the walls. After drinks, it was onto dinner at Fia where fare is wood-fired and Mediterranean-inspired. Small plates such as Ahi tuna tartare, charred octopus, and pork belly and grits (the dish also on the brunch menu) lead the way to entrees of pan-seared potato gnocchi and grilled whole branzino. It might seem cliché to order something so simple, but I opted for the Mr. B burger. With oozing raclette, sweet pickled onion, crispy lettuce and juicy tomatoes, it was anything but boring. When traveling around the world or just down the street, there’s nothing better than a burger to bring you the comfort of home.

Beyond the food and atmosphere, The Burgess features a few other perks: I loved the fitness center, complete with a Peloton bike, and complimentary transportation within a 2-mile radius for shopping and additional dining options. As a Trademark Collection by Wyndham accommodation, The Burgess is also a fantastic way to collect or use hotel points. The Burgess Hotel has become my number one suggestion for Buckhead travelers. Through its food, decor and accommodations, it offers all the excitement of traveling abroad with the ease of wandering locally. n

The Burgess Hotel 3600 Piedmont Road N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.869.1100 theburgesshotel.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

COV E R S T ORY

The Decatur Alpaca Cottage has all the comforts of home, from Netflix to free nibbles.

Animal Attraction Pack your bags for an intown Atlanta Airbnb with its own mini alpaca farm

STORY:

Jill Becker

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Treats for Tails Photography

s I drove through the neighborhood, along an ordinary residential street just a mile or so southwest of Northlake Mall, I could never have guessed that hidden behind one of the typical suburban Atlanta homes was an adorable Airbnb with an adjoining legacy farm housing a small herd of alpacas. But as soon as I pulled up the gravel drive that leads past the main house, I looked to my right and spotted them. There, behind a fenced plot marked with a sign noting it as a certified wildlife habitat, was not just a handful of the cutest alpacas you’ve ever seen, but also a llama, a huarizo (a cross between an alpaca and a llama), dozens of chickens and a couple of rabbits. Thus began my stay at the Decatur Alpaca Cottage. After dropping off my overnight bag in the adjacent cottage, I met Marykay Mentzer, the property’s owner and caretaker, for the bonus Alpaca Experience I had signed up for. All guests of the Decatur Alpaca Cottage can watch the animals over the fence and take pictures galore, but with this special host-led tour, you get to go behind the gates to interact and feed treats to the flock. Mentzer

Above: The rental’s resident herd of alpacas, chickens and more are housed right next door for your viewing pleasure. Right: The Decatur Alpaca Cottage is smack in the middle of a suburban neighborhood, but the site gives you the feeling of being away from it all.

shares her encyclopedic knowledge about the menagerie, as well as the history of how her little backyard farmstead came to be. In an Instagram-worthy moment, you even get to have your picture taken kissing one of the alpacas. After meeting Beau, Loverboy,

Skyboy Blue and the other critters, Mentzer then showed me the adjacent herb, vegetable and perennial gardens; outdoor eating area; firepit and some of the highlights of the cottage itself. The one-bedroom bungalow has been on the site for

more than 70 years (the land was once a dairy farm), but it has been transformed into a chic, eclectic lodging with all the modern conveniences. Mentzer did the decorating herself, and the decor is delightfully big on the property’s featured creature, with alpacas on everything from the doormat to a decorative pillow on the plush queen-size bed to the set of dominos in the game closet. My favorite cottage amenity was the cozy screened porch, where I kicked back with a glass of wine from the complimentary bottle of Willamette Valley rosé. Rather than drink it in one of the provided wineglasses, though, I thought it more appropriate to sip it from the alpacafestooned coffee mug. Despite the fact the Decatur Alpaca Cottage is on the same acreage as Mentzer’s own home, it’s still very private. And even though it’s right next door to where the alpacas and the rest of animals are housed, there’s absolutely no farm-like smell (if you catch my drift). When my stay was over and I cruised back down the gravel drive onto the main road, I felt rested, rejuvenated and 100% convinced that every Airbnb needs its own herd of alpacas. n Decatur Alpaca Cottage Lodging from $235 a night decaturalpacacottage.com

Sara Hanna

Montane Sparkling Spring Water ($5.99 per 8-pack) This portable H20, made with water from a quartzite spring nestled in Pine Mountain, has a crisp flavor and pleasant effervescence. Whether you’re a purist for plain sparkling water or prefer juicy, Southern-inspired flavors such as grapefruit peach, lemon honeysuckle or cucumber lime, these colorful cans will help keep you hydrated wherever you roam. Savi Provisions Multiple locations saviprovisions.com

Knotty Pretzels ($4.99) These tasty pretzels come in four flavors: Zesty Italian, Hot Wings, BBQ and Honey Mustard. Created by two lifelong friends using a family recipe, they were made to pair with beer. Save the imbibing for when you reach your destination, but let these pretzels fuel your journey.

The Beer Growler 1418 Dresden Drive, #160 Brookhaven 30319 678.705.8340 thebeergrowlerbrookhaven.com

Snack Well

Xocolatl Moonlight Through The Pines Trail Mix ($10) This sweet, salty, crunchy snack might just become your go-to road trip nosh, with its alluring blend of dry-roasted pecans and peanuts, dried cranberries, raw pumpkin seeds and vegan dark chocolate made with just two ingredients: cacao and organic cane sugar. Nuts ‘n Berries Dried peaches 4274 Peachtree give this Road N.E portable mix Atlanta 30319 a uniquely 404.254.0330 nutsnberries.com Georgia spin.

GEORGIA-MADE SIPS AND BITES FOR THE ROAD STORY:

Jennifer Bradley Franklin

When you’re ready to strike out—whether you’re driving across state lines or just across town—you’ll want to have something to keep hunger at bay. Here are some of our favorite flavors fit for any road trip. Banjo Nitro Cold Brew Coffee ($3.19 each) Crafted in nearby Avondale Estates using 100% organic, fair trade coffee beans, these pleasantly frothy iced coffee cans are available black or slightly sweetened. Rest assured: The rich, creamy, cold-brewed cans of java will leave you buzzing.

Georgia Peach Hand Pies ($4.50 each) These sweet seasonal pies are only available while Georgia’s peaches are at their peak of freshness, so get ’em while they last. Each pie fits right in your hand—thus the name—for an individual serving of sweet-tart peaches baked into a flaky, buttery crust. Who could blame you for not sharing? Southern Baked Pie Company 3145 Peachtree Road N.E. Suite 165 Atlanta 30305 404.263.0820 southernbakedpie.com

Whole Foods Market Multiple locations wholefoodsmarket.com

Grits Bits ($5) This Buckhead-based company, owned by Gone with the Grits cookbook author Diane Pfeifer, makes crunchy, bite-sized grits biscuits in sweet and savory flavors including pimento cheese, Vidalia onion, cheddar cheese and sweet Georgia brownie. Local pickup available gritsbits.com We bet you can’t stop at just one.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

COV E R S T ORY

X MARKS THE [TOURIST] SPOT EXPLORE THESE 10 GEORGIA TREASURES

STORY:

Nicole Letts

s you plan your summer bucket list, don’t miss these under-the-radar destinations around the state. Some are right outside your Buckhead backdoor while others might require a day trip (or an overnight stay). Load up the car and hit the road toward 10 of Georgia’s most curious stops.

where Buckhead merges with Midtown, this museum is dedicated to fashion and film. This summer, see temporary exhibits Derrick Adams Exhibition: Patrick Kelly, The Journey and Alaïa-Adrian: Masters of Cut.

ANDALUSIA FARMS Andalusia Farms in Milledgeville was home to writer Flannery O’Connor from 1951 to 1964. It was here, amid 520 acres of land, O’Connor produced the majority of her work including A Good Man Is Hard to Find.

GIBBS GARDENS This sprawling 220-acre landscape includes 16 gardens filled with flowers, foliage and water features for touring, making Gibbs Gardens in Ball Ground a picturesque place to explore.

scadfash.org

gcsu.edu/andalusia

gibbsgardens.com

THE BOOTH MUSEUM What began as a private, donated collection is now a Smithsonian Institution affiliate that spans 120,000 square feet. In addition to works by artists including Ansel Adams, visitors can see presidential portraits and letters.

PARADISE GARDEN The late artist and Baptist minister Howard Finster’s Summerville property is a maze of buildings, sculptures and displays constructed with found and recycled objects. Wander around and get a glimpse into his imagination and artistry.

boothmuseum.org

paradisegardenfoundation.org

GEORGIA GUIDESTONES “America’s Stonehenge” is found in Elberton. Six granite slabs are etched in eight languages with 10 guidelines for living, presumably after an apocalypse or other worldwide catastrophe. Erected in 1980, the monoliths were funded by a still-anonymous group of donors.

PASAQUAN If one artist-built environment doesn’t quench your thirst for unique art, why not explore another? Head to Buena Vista, home to this 7-acre outdoor installation by Eddie Owens Martin.

elbertchamber.com/ play-here/historic-sites

pasaquan.columbusstate.edu

SCAD FASH MUSEUM OF FASHION + FILM At SCAD Atlanta, located

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Above: Tour historic ruins and blossoming gardens at Barnsley Resort. Below: The Booth Museum in Cartersville has a permanent collection spanning more than a dozen galleries.

SPRINGER OPERA HOUSE This historic theater opened its doors in 1871, and it’s still the heart of performing arts in Columbus. Behind-thescenes tours for curious thespians and theater lovers are available weekly. springeroperahouse.org

STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA Dawg fans, did you know just a few miles from The Arch in Athens lies a collection of gardens, greenhouses, trails and nature areas? From gardens designed for children to those dedicated to native flora, there is so much to see. botgarden.uga.edu

WOODLANDS MANOR HOUSE RUINS Located at Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, these hauntingly beautiful ruins and the affiliated museum are the remnants of what was once a stately home built by Godfrey Barnsley for his wife, Julia. barnsleyresort.com

Left and below: Discover the cheeky characters and spaces of Paradise Garden in Summerville. Photos courtesy of Caroline Eubanks

TAKE ME AWAY! TAP INTO THESE TIPS TO FIND NEARBY TRAVEL DEALS STORY: H.M

Cauley

Bonjwing Lee

The chefs don’t play at Music to Your Mouth.

Drive-By Festivals AWESOME ANNUAL EVENTS JUST A CAR RIDE AWAY

YOGA

Love Shine Play

loveshineplay.com

Karina Antenucci

MUSIC

FOOD

AmericanaFest 2020

Music to Your Mouth

WHERE: Nashville, Tennessee WHEN: September 15-20

WHERE: Bluffton,

AmericanaFest presents a melting pot of legendary artists and the next generation of rising stars in roots, folk, country, blues and soul over six days, and in Music City no less. The 21st annual music festival will feature approximately 700 live performances at 60 venues across various Nashville neighborhoods. While planning for 2020’s schedule is still underway, the 2019 event offers a glimpse into what’s in store: Last year’s affair was kicked off with Sheryl Crow and Friends at Cannery Ballroom; other highlights included performances by Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors, Tanya Tucker, Randolph & The Family Band and more. A separate conference ticket gets you access to panel discussions on varying cultural and industry-related topics.

WHEN: November 16-22

americanamusic.org

Nathan Zucker

WHERE: Asheville, North Carolina WHEN: July 22-25, 2021 With its hippy vibes and serene, mountainous backdrop, Asheville is the perfect spot for a yoga festival. Love Shine Play, formerly Asheville Yoga Festival, always kicks off with immersion workshops where you can dive deep into training in two half-day or full-day courses. The three days that follow overflow with options for yoga, movement and meditation classes taught by nationally distinguished instructors such as Tymi Howard and Janet Stone, as well as by local studio favorites at walkable downtown venues. In between sweat sessions, hit up the fest’s Mountain Air Market for a henna tattoo, local food truck bites and some crystals.

STORY:

South Carolina Renowned chefs, artisans, vintners, brewers, distillers and musicians will come together at Music to Your Mouth at Palmetto Bluff for the 14th time this fall, and it is bound to be one heck of an indulgent good time. Join in an exclusive Chef’s Table dinner for 12 but save room for the largest to-do of the weekend: the Culinary Festival that hosts around 1,000 guests and features a large tasting tent in the heart of Palmetto Bluff’s Wilson Village under beautiful live oak trees. There is no shortage of Southern food-driven events to keep you fat and happy here. Live music performances with a top-secret grand finale show that has included O.A.R., Chris Daughtry and John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls entertain and add ambiance throughout the festival, while an artisan market offers a break from imbibing and a jump on holiday shopping. palmettobluff.com

fter a spring spent sheltering in place, Atlantans are ready to get out and about. Start planning for that change of scenery now with the help of some expert tips and resources. Lauren Rock, owner of the Dynamic Escapes travel agency in Buckhead, suggests starting by establishing parameters. “Think about what this trip means: who is going (a couple, family, girlfriends)?” she says. “Then consider what each person wants out of the trip. Will there be a set agenda to explore, see major attractions and get off the beaten path, or do people just want to sit on the beach? Planning is a balancing act to make sure everyone’s needs are met.” At the top of Rock’s list for nearby getaway deals are the national and state parks, many of which have affordably priced cabins or cottages tucked away in the woods. Others, including Unicoi in Helen and Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville, have lodges as well. And the abundance of natural beauty can serve another purpose, says Rock: “A lot of people may find nature very soothing after being confined for so long.” Another source for good deals is a resort, says Rock. “We’re seeing resorts offering low or no deposits with flexible dates for people who go online now. They’ll be able to fill in the blanks later about what they’d like to do. Some resorts are allowing you to pick any time in the next year but then play those dates by ear.” Finding good deals can be a cinch with the right source. A wealth of online sites such as booking.com and airbnb.com allow searchers to find destinations through a range of filters to narrow the choice. Momondo.com is noted for its extensive legwork on everything from flights, hotels and car rentals to package deals, reducing the time spent on multiple sites. Roomkey.com is another source designed by leading hotel chains that offer discounts at their properties. At agoda.com, flash discounts on hotels and vacation homes show up regularly, and users are offered refunds if lower prices appear elsewhere. Sign up for the loyalty program and earn additional discounts on future bookings. Sometimes the best deals are crafted by contacting the destination directly. If you’ve got a favorite airline, hotel or resort, sign up for deal notifications and follow the company on Twitter so you’re among the first to know when a deal pops up. Of course, no crystal ball can predict the state of the travel industry over the next several months. But experts such as Rock are confident it will still be possible to score a great deal that gives you the chance to relax, refresh and regain some sense of balance, all without straying too far from home. dynamic-escapes.com

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

COV E R S T ORY

Both Chattahoochee Nature Center and Fernbank Museum offer plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with nature.

Stay and Play STORY:

Karina Antenucci

1. CONNECT WITH NATURE: Chattahoochee Nature Center Get the kids outside and away from their screens at this 127-acre nature center on the Chattahoochee River in Roswell. It holds al fresco escapades for all ages, even grownups. Go for a hike on one of five wooded trails home to over 50 species of wildlife, take a guided canoe trip with a naturalist and spend time along the “Wildlife Walk,” observing the resident birds of prey such as bald eagles and great horned owls. The facility also hosts many family-friendly events, from butterfly encounters to Sunday concerts, throughout the year. General admission tickets are $10 for adults and range from free to $7 for kids. 9135 Willeo Road Roswell 30075 770.992.2055 chattnaturecenter.org

2. RAINY DAY PLAY SPACE: Kefi This modern, indoor funhouse in Buckhead is filled with six developmentally stimulating play experiences for ages infant to 12 and is just

the thing for a rainy-day activity. The super littles can explore instruments, push toys, wooden puzzles and a “Creative Courtyard” that includes costumes, while ages 3 through 6 get some energy out climbing over modular blocks, playing with their favorite toys such as Barbie and Optimus Prime, and even training a virtual puppy. The older set stays entertained with pop-culture experiences such as dance parties to their favorite artists’ tunes and, coming soon, writing, directing and starring in their own music videos. Mom and dad also will appreciate Kefi’s attention to cleaning, including the use of a cutting-edge Zono cabinet to sanitize toys and wristbands. Drop-in passes and membership packages available. 3637 Peachtree Road N.E., Suite D Atlanta 30319 404.937.3352 playkefi.com

3. ADVENTUROUS THRILLS: Andretti Indoor Karting & Games It’s “game on” at this high-speed entertainment mecca perfect for older kids in Marietta. The expansive facility provides endless amusements

Left: At Kefi’s Toy Testing Lab, kids have a chance to try out the latest and greatest. Right: Fernbank Museum’s Fantastic Forces STEM exhibit explores aerodynamics, among other things.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

5 ENTERTAINING ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AROUND TOWN

with high-speed go-karts, an arcade, virtual reality experiences, a 3D interactive ride, racing simulators, a ropes course, boutique bowling lounge, a climbing wall and a zipline course— oh my! Its three karting tracks include a “Junior Track” for kids 48-inches tall and up, and an intermediate road-course-style track for drivers at least 54-inches tall. Good news for pooped parents: You can refuel at the in-house bar and grill. Pricing varies depending on activities. 1255 Roswell Road Marietta 30062 678.496.9530 andrettikarting.com/marietta

4. SCIENCE MADE FUN: Fernbank Museum This natural sciences institution in Druid Hills is one of Atlanta’s more children-friendly museums. What kid doesn’t love an enormous dinosaur skeleton? Gaze in awe at the prehistoric creatures in its Great Hall and find photo-worthy statues in its exterior spaces, including in the immersive outdoor trails and exhibits behind the building. Permanent indoor exhibits include “NatureQuest,” where visitors under 10 explore a

nature-filled environment, and Fantastic Forces, a STEM exhibit that offers hands-on fun with aerodynamics, plate tectonics and more. Don’t miss the chance to go under the sea or into a remote rainforest at the 3D theater. Children under 3 are free; tickets are $23 for ages 3-12, $27 for ages 13-64 and $25 for seniors. 767 Clifton Road Atlanta 30307 404.929.6300 fernbankmuseum.org

5. FREE VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS: ATL Museums at Home Cyber kids can still discover behindthe-scenes animal encounters, tours, hands-on activities, experiments, story times and summer blooms from 11 Atlanta cultural attractions for free. Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta History Center, High Museum of Art, Children’s Museum of Atlanta, College Football Hall of Fame and more are offering the virtual experiences via social media. Find the activities by searching for #ATLMuseumsatHome on the organizations’ Facebook pages. atlmuseumsathome.org

RE V I E W | DRI N K S | F O ODI E J OU RNA L | TA S T E M A K E R

SIMPLY DELICIOUS

RESTAURANT REVIEW

In Varasano Veritas P66

This Peachtree Road gem is the chef d'oeuvre of former software engineer and Rubik's Cube wiz Jeff Varasano.

Upper crust: Varasano's margherita di bufala pizza is in a class by itself. Photo: Sara Hanna

June 2020 | Simply Buckheadâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

REVIEW

In Varasano

Veritas A convenient truth: Great Naples-style pizza is closer than you think STORY:

Rebecca Cha PHOTOS: Sara Hanna

I Nothing says mangia bene quite like the tricolor caprese salad.

f MacArthur gave out a genius award for pizza-making, Jeff Varasano could be on the short list. At his namesake pizzeria in South Buckhead, Varasano combines the passion of an Italian nonna with the calculated restraint of a software engineer (his former occupation). He’s been wowing guests for more than a decade with his Neapolitan-style thin-crust pies.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

On a recent night, my companion and I sipped Camparis at the elegant bar as we waited for a table and soaked in the intoxicating scents of Italy—oregano, garlic, yeasty dough—and admired the exquisite Alphonse Mucha Dance mural that covers one entire wall. Moments later, we were summoned by the host and led toward a seat in the rear, near the pizza oven. Varasano’s has a railroad apartment feel to it, and as you move from front to back, you can’t miss the numerous framed articles about Varasano, his pizza exploits and accolades that adorn the walls. (These are fun and informative reads if you’re inclined.) Moments later, we were nestled in our comfy banquette, noses deep in menus, a spectacular view of Peachtree Road out the soaring windows before us. We were craving something substantial after our cocktails, and Varasano’s had just the thing: Nana’s meatballs, simmering in slow-cooked San Marzano tomato sauce and served with homemade sourdough bread. No other spot in town has mastered tomato sauce like Varasano’s. It’s tart-sweet and poppy red, perfectly complementing all-beef meatballs that have the ethereal fork-tenderness of a perfect matzah ball. We had no sooner mopped up the last bit of sauce—no wasting here!—when more bread and sauce arrived in the form of a pizza. An imperfect 14-inch round, the margherita di bufala is pizza perfection, a product of Jeff Varasano’s years of study and practice. A charry, dappled crust, a thin layer of concentrated sauce, islands of milky bufala mozzarella and fresh basil leaves make for a mouthful that checks every box: crunchy,

The veggie pizza—replete with broccolini, peppers, eggplant and 'shroomsis a gift to veggie lovers everywhere.

creamy, piquant, herby. It’s both humble and formidable; not a pie you’ll soon forget. Can you believe we ordered another one? Of course you can; as we like to say, when in Rome… But this time, we strayed from the classics, opting instead for a veggie pizza. It arrived with the same unspeakably delicious blistered crust and piled high with vibrantly colored veg: shimmering broccolini, red peppers, roasted eggplant and mushrooms, all enhanced with melty bits of fontal, a European, semi-firm cow’s milk cheese. This pizza is a gift to veggie worshippers everywhere—so good, you don’t even miss the San Marzano tomato sauce. Dessert items are simple and straightforward: cannoli, tiramisu and the like. Perhaps the most interesting item is the dessert pizza made with dates, fontina, walnuts, rosemary and honey. At the last minute, we decided to go with the Italian doughnuts served with fresh raspberry coulis. The four scone-shaped sweet rolls were sugar-dusted and crisp from the fryer. We agreed, though, that the dough was a bit too close in flavor and texture to other bread items to thoroughly enjoy. Our next visit was a take-out meal, and we were determined to give other menu items a fair shake. I will tell you, it takes colossal willpower not to order pizza at Varasano’s. The caprese salad seemed a good place to start. A mainstay on Italian menus, the caprese’s success depends entirely on the quality of a few simple ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella, olive oil and basil leaves. With its thick beefsteak tomato disks layered

Left: The farfalle with shrimp and lemon cream sauce is decadent and satisfying. Below: Looking for a protein-rich Italian classic? Don't miss Varasano's penne alla vodka with chicken featuring a Parmigiano-studded San Marzano tomato sauce.

"Fresh crustacean and lemon cream is a marriage long ordained by the food gods." Left: Jeff Varasano's classic—the result of years of practice and passion— is sure to evoke favorite memories of meals on the Italian coast Right: Spinach salad in all its glory: crisp leaves, tangy gorgonzola, candied pecans and a mild, fruity balsamic vinaigrette. Below: Wrap up your meal at Varasano's with some sugar-dusted Italian doughnuts and a nip of grappa or limoncello.

with snow white mozzarella, preternaturally green basil and pungent, uber-fresh olive oil, Varasano’s version triumphs, evoking memories of favorite meals on the isle of Capri. Still lingering in the antipasti section, we decided to give Varasano’s spinach salad a try. The mound of bright, crisp leaves was nicely dressed up with a mellow cherryscented balsamic vinaigrette, sweet gorgonzola and a generous toss of candied pecans. The take-out server sold us on the penne alla vodka with chicken, a portion big enough for three. We loved the housemade pasta in a creamy, Parmigiano-studded pink sauce with thick strips of chicken. Still, we couldn’t help but note that the pasta was a little past al dente, robbing us of that first lovely, resistant bite. Thankfully, that was not the case with our second pasta, farfalle with shrimp and lemon cream sauce. Fresh crustacean paired with lemon cream is a marriage long ordained by the food gods, and here the fusion of cream and lemon is deeply satisfying, the sauce’s

consistency balanced and not cloying, the pasta al dente. All the colors of the Italian flag show up—silky white sauce, green herb flecks and glistening pink-fleshed shrimp—just one more nod to Mr. Varasano’s culinary north star. In our postprandial bliss, we marveled over the fact that—despite the pandemic’s devastating impact on Atlanta restaurants—Varasano’s still managed to deliver a top-quality dining experience. Varasano’s is decidedly Italian (some would say Italian-American), more like a trattoria than upscale ristorante, so don’t expect chops or seafood on the menu. But if you’re after pizza that has been labored over and perfected by a master pizzaiolo, then this is the place for you. It’s rare that people in the food world love one thing so much that they dedicate their lives to it. Sure, that may be a bit dramatic, but I defy anyone to take a bite of one of Varasano’s pies and tell me it hasn’t made your pizzaeating experience utterly unforgettable. n

VARASANO’S PIZZERIA 2171 Peachtree Road, Unit 100, Atlanta 30309 404.352.8216 varasanos.com Prices: antipasti: $5.95 - $14.95; pasta: $16.95 - $18.95; pizza: $15.95 - $20.95 (for additional toppings $1.50 - $5.00); sweets: $3.95 - $8.95. Recommended: Caprese salad, spinach salad, meatballs with housemade bread, margherita di bufala pizza, Nana’s pizza, veggie pizza, penne alla vodka with chicken, farfalle with shrimp in lemon cream sauce, Italian doughnuts. Bottom line: Jeff Varasano has more than done his due diligence here, knocking out exceptional Neapolitan-style pizza pies and other Italian specialties. Also on the menu are craft and classic beers, and a decent but limited wine list.

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Heidi Geldhauser

D R I NKS

Above: Whether you feel like a Havana kind of night or look forward to sipping rosé with a view, The Regent’s rooftop aims to please. Jason Locklear

Left: Two terraces with sweeping skyline views await at Whiskey Blue after a glass elevator trip to the top.

Sky High Sipping

DETAILS Fado Irish Pub 273 Buckhead Avenue N.E. Atlanta 30305 404.841.0066 fadoirishpub.com The Regent Cocktail Club 3035 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30305 770.415.9961 theregentatl.com Whiskey Blue 3377 Peachtree Road N.E. Atlanta 30326 678.500.3190 whiskeyblueatl.com

BUCKHEAD’S FINEST ROOFTOPS FOR THE HAPPIEST HOURS STORY:

Angela Hansberger

n a city with mild weather and an average daily temperature of 61 degrees, sipping al fresco is always in style in Atlanta. This is precisely why you should have a list at your fingertips, ready for when the moment strikes to have a proper drink in hand on a beautiful evening. We are lucky to have a plethora of rooftops on which to take in scenic views of the city. Grab a friend or two and head upwards for top-tier entertainment only a prominent skyline can provide. And don’t forget your smartphone to capture the magic. If you’re feeling sleek and chic Part of the thrill of getting to the top of the W Atlanta-Buckhead’s Whiskey Blue is being transported 125 feet aloft in an all-glass elevator. Every vantage

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

point is Instagrammable from the two outdoor terraces—views of Buckhead on one side and Midtown from the other. Sleek gray subway tile, dangling strings of lights and a crowd dressed to impress are part of the attraction. Settle into one of the blue sectional seating areas with a Buckhead Spritz or a Rooftop Lemonade. A winter 2018 complete renovation added art, including a 66-foot-long Chris Veal ode to Buckhead and a neon sign reading “Good Vibes Only.” Whiskey Blue’s menu is petite but filled with small bites, sliders and pretty stellar Korean gochujang-spiced wings. If you’re feeling here and now but a bit wistful for old Ireland Fado Irish Pub opens early to accommodate English Premier League fans and the soccer games playing live across the pond. Similarly, it caters to anyone wanting an experience reflective of the modern day Irish

pub scene. The three-story space has three rooftop patios with murals of old Irish settings and stone walls. Oversized fireplaces fit the mood. Looking out, it’s not the rugged landscape of Ireland you’ll see, but the striking vistas of Buckhead. Sip from copper cups with the menu of mules or from a list of various concoctions made with Guinness. There are rotating local beer taps and a deep list of Irish whiskies. Food menus are elevated yet inspired by Irish comfort food. Order Harp beer-battered fish tacos or goat cheese fritters while soaking in the surroundings of this cozy perch. Seasonal flatbreads are good for snacking with friends in this environment that feels fun and relaxed. If you need classic cocktails and Havana inspiration Situated above American Cut Steakhouse, The Regent Cocktail Club

provides everything you need for a South Beach-style getaway reminiscent of Miami’s original Regent Cocktail Club of 1941. The indoor/ outdoor patio area is like a midcentury modern living room with dark Brazilian hardwood paneled walls and polished concrete floors. Every bit of the 5,000-square-foot space is top-tier, including the sweeping views of Buckhead and Midtown. The aim of The Regent is to tell the classic cocktail story, and the list is expertly curated and hand crafted with precision to add to the experience. The first Thursday of each month brings Havana Nights, with Cuban music, mojitos and cigars in a special smoking area. Other nights are dedicated to Rooftop Rosé. The menu is bitesized, but items such as handheld croquettes and empanadas pair well with a Guava Paloma and city lights, or even an evening storm. n

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FOODIE JOURNAL

Culinary News & Notes

BY:

Lia Picard

Danielle Oron

The Cure for the Summertime Blues The General Muir's Avenue A bagel is loaded with nova, cream cheese, avocado, grapefruit, cucumber and dill.

wners of the General Muir, a popular Emory Point eatery, are opening a second location in the City Springs development in Sandy Springs. We spoke with chef and co-owner Todd Ginsburg about the new restaurant and what guests can expect. How did you decide to open the second location in Sandy Springs? City Springs approached us and asked if we would consider opening a General Muir. They sold us on the project. I think it's a great location and another community that we can have a good relationship with.

John Castellucci shares his tips for building a charcuterie board

othing sets the tone for a summer meal like a well-made charcuterie board. With meats, cheeses and accents of jams and pickled veggies, it’s a fun DIY appetizer. Plus, there’s no cooking involved! Even if you’re just enjoying a casual evening with the family, charcuterie boards are the perfect way to start a meal. For tips on how to put together a decadent spread, we chatted with John Castellucci, executive chef of The Iberian Pig in Buckhead.

Source meats and cheeses. Castellucci likes to go to Savi Provisions with locations in Buckhead and Brookhaven. “Savi keeps a small but well-curated selection. They are constantly rotating purveyors and typically offer a lot of locally-farmed

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

products,” he says. Try to get one to two ounces of meat per person.

Vary it up. When it comes to selecting crowd pleasers, Castellucci suggests choosing a whole muscle cut such as prosciutto or jamón Ibérico. “They’re the most expensive but tend to be the stars of the show,” he says. He also likes sausages from locallyowned Spotted Trotter. For cheese, he recommends having a variety of flavor intensity by picking selections with different ages. He enjoys a soft rind such as La Tur from Italy and a hard cheese such as a 1-year aged Manchego. Artful arrangement. Display the meats and cheeses by placing them in groups. Roll your meats if you can for a prettier aesthetic. One thing

Castellucci advises against is overcrowding. “Give the meats, cheeses and accoutrements room to breathe. Let the art speak for itself and encourage more creative combinations!”

Accessorize to maximize flavor. Castellucci likes to hit all the flavor notes—sweet, salty, savory and spicy— by accenting the board with nuts, honey, preserves and pickled veggies. Grainy mustard is especially good for any meat. Don’t stress about it. “Honestly, the combination of meats, cheese and accoutrements is all a matter of preference,” he adds. “Try as many combinaThe Iberian Pig tions as possible 3150 Roswell Road until you find Atlanta 30305 what is perfect 404.994.4990 for you.” n theiberianpigatl.com

What differences will there be between the two locations? The biggest differences as of right now would be that the Sandy Springs location is going to have one menu. At [Emory Point], I think we have five or six different menus between lunch, dinner, brunch, breakfast and midday. At Sandy Springs, we're just going to have one menu. What will we see on the Sandy Springs menu? We’re going to be more fish focused up there. We’ll introduce sturgeon and a few other things like gravlax or salmon cured with salt, dill and aquavit (a ryeflavored Scandinavian spirit) Sturgeon is typically harvested for caviar production. It’s not kosher, but it's absolutely delicious. It's very meaty. It's good with butter and a slice of onion and capers on pumpernickel.We'll have something like that. We'll also have sable, which is black cod that's salt cured, dusted in paprika and hot smoked. n The General Muir 6405 Bluestone Road, Suite 240 Sandy Springs 30328 thegeneralmuir.com

WALL, WINDOW, FLOOR AND CEILING GRAPHICS

C U STO M P R I NT E D S O LU T I O NS

STAND BY YOUR MESSAGE THESE WALLS CAN TALK

The ﬂoor, ceiling, wall and windows are blank canvases. Create a mood, hint at something, tease a little or try a hassle-free room makeover.

404.577.9090

g n i s i t r e v d A For information, email us at advertising@simplybuckhead.com or call 404-538-9895

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

TA S T E M AKE R

FUN FACT Nowak’s sponsors events for numerous charities, including Project Open Hand and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.

p.m. Monday through Friday. We serve our filet mignon for $11. That’s our same, quality, 7-ounce filet! What’s your day-to-day role at the restaurant? I’m there 12 hours a day, six days a week. I take inventory, place orders, work on payroll and scheduling, and taste new ingredients and wines. Once we open, I’m greeting people, managing the staff and keeping my eyes on every guest to make sure my staff is serving them to meet my high expectations. How do you anticipate guests’ needs? I observe constantly. I train all servers personally. When I think they may be missing a step of service, I notice and remind them. How do you balance such long work hours with family life? My kids (ages 6, 9 and 12) are the most important thing in the world to me. I bring them here for dinner a lot because I have to be here so much. They wrote the kids’ menu. They make changes when they see fit. I pick them up from school every Thursday and Friday, and spend a couple hours with them before service starts. I help them with their homework, and we play outside. It allows me to enjoy some quality time with them and remind them of how important they are to me.

Son of a Restaurant Man BLAISS NOWAK EMBRACES TRIED-AND-TRUE HOSPITALITY TECHNIQUES AT NOWAK’S STORY:

Carly Cooper PHOTO: Sara Hanna

andy Springs resident Blaiss Nowak always knew he’d work in the restaurant industry. Son of Hal Nowak, known for the quintessential Buckhead steakhouse, Hal’s, Nowak started learning the business at age 21. After working in nearly every position at Hal’s, he moved to Las Vegas where he was a server at Emeril’s while studying hospitality management at the University of Nevada. Twenty-plus years in food distribution, sales and marketing later,

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Nowak met restaurateur Tom Murphy (of Murphy’s) who was looking to sell his brunch spot, Morningside Kitchen. Nowak jumped at the opportunity, and Nowak’s was born. “The concept is simple: high-quality food at its basics, [served] in a cozy atmosphere,” he says. “We’re known for our steaks, but we do fresh fish and seafood very well. I try to create something for everyone—to make it a neighborhood steakhouse with different items that make people want

to eat here regularly.” Popular dishes range from branzino to gluten-free crab cakes and salmon salad. The restaurant has also become known for its large wine-by-the-glass selection. As for the elder Nowak? “Dad is my number one advisor. We talk daily,” Nowak says. We spoke with the junior Nowak about work, family and the future of Nowak’s. What’s one thing people might not know about Nowak’s? We have a happy hour from 4:30 to 6

Besides spending time with family, what do you do for fun? I like to play poker and go on vacation to the beach. I love Rosemary Beach on 30-A. I’ve been going there since I was 10. Once a year, over the summer, we go as an entire family, grandparents and all. What are your plans for the future? I’m looking at other locations for more Nowak’s in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Right now, we’re looking at Sandy Springs, Roswell and Alpharetta. I’m also looking at old Atlanta classics that went out of business—restaurants that are memorable to Atlantans. I want to bring some of those back over the next five years. Everyone’s doing new concepts, but I miss the restaurants we used to go to that are no longer around. Some I miss are Abruzzi, Alfredo’s, Brasserie Le Coze, the Coach & Six, Rocky’s Brick Oven Pizza, Pano’s & Paul’s and Dailey’s. n NOWAK’S 1397 N. Highland Ave. N.E. Atlanta 30306 678.705.4231 nowaksrestaurant.com

EVENTS | SCENE

SIMPLY HAPPENING

EVENTS BY:

Ginger Strejcek

[ F E AT U R E D E V E N T ]

HOT WHEELS

CHECK OUT THE LARGEST MONTHLY CAR SHOW ON THE CONTINENT

or well over a decade, car enthusiasts have congregated in the parking lot of Perimeter Mall the first Sunday of the month, bearing witness to automotive nirvana amidst a blitz of horsepower and rocket fuel. Today, the Caffeine and Octane Car Show is an international blockbuster, running at full throttle with spin-off events, a TV series on NBC Sports Network (broadcast in 65 countries) and a retail/dining destination coming to Sandy Springs. “Since those early days when a handful of ‘car guys’ gathered over coffee to ogle each other’s rides, Caffeine and Octane has evolved into an integrated brand reaching automobile aficionados worldwide,” says Bruce Piefke, CEO and producer of the largest monthly car

show in North America. Revving up on July 5, the cruise-in features an eclectic showcase of around 2,500 vehicles of all makes and models, including vintage, muscle, high performance and exotic cars. “If it has wheels and a motor, you’ll find it here,” Piefke says. “You’re guaranteed to see something new at every show.” Piefke’s latest venture, Caffeine and Octane at the CAFFEINE + OCTANE Garage, is set to open this CAR SHOW summer on Roswell Road in the North River Shopping Center July 5, 8-11 a.m. with a coffee shop, restaurant, Free Perimeter Mall event space and TV studio. “It’s 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road going to be a cool hangout for Dunwoody 30346 car guys and a fantastic familycaffeineandoctane.com friendly establishment.”

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

E V E NTS

BUZZ DUNWOODY RESTAURANT REVAMP MONTH June 1-30 discoverdunwoody.com/ restaurants/restaurant-revamp Dunwoody is rolling out the red carpet for its restaurants, rallying the community to dine around town in a month-long salute to the hard-hit industry. The city will dish out daily bites and tasty treats on its social media channels, inviting diners to share their meals with the #DunwoodyRestaurantRevamp hashtag.

[ FA M I LY ] ON THE LIGHT SIDE

Glow in the Dark Channeling the backyard magic of twinkling fireflies on a summer night, the Sandy Springs Lantern Parade offers a luminous evening of family fun every June along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. This year, things will be different. Rather than dimming the lights on the popular event, the city is amping up the watts with a weekend “parade-in-place” on June 19-21 after sunset. Participants are encouraged to decorate their porches, balconies,

yards and windows with blue lanterns in support of healthcare workers and first responders. Snap a picture and post to social media with the hashtag: #paradeinplacesandysprings. Blue globe lanterns, illuminated parasols with blue trimmings and “keep-safe” angel lantern kits will be available for purchase in select retail locations in Sandy Springs. There will also be an online tutorial for making lanterns from household materials.

Photos: Steve Eberhardt

LANTERNS LIGHT UP THE NIGHT IN SANDY SPRINGS

SANDY SPRINGS LANTERN PARADE June 19-21 Free sandyspringsga.gov/recreation/events/ annual-city-events/lantern-parade

July 24-26 (8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun.) 3110 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta 30319 ccityopera.org Head out for “A Night at the Movies” at Capitol City Opera’s On the Light Side fundraiser, with a new location at St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church. The 28th annual shindig features music from such Hollywood classics as Singin’ in the Rain and The Wizard of Oz, performed by top Atlanta singers in a casual concert setting, complete with props, dancing and audience participation. Tote your own food and drinks, along with a checkbook for the silent auction.

[ C U LT U RE ]

Virtual Vibes TUNE IN TO ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT As many events are rescheduled and museums remain closed, culture vultures can still get their fill of art, music, movies and more with a slew of online programming:

with demonstrations in everything from painting and ceramics to glassblowing and blacksmithing. Night owls can catch the classes later in the day on YouTube. spruillarts.org/virtual-programming

n The Atlanta Jazz Festival served

up 31 Days of Jazz online last month while exploring alternative dates for its 43rd annual musical showcase. Hit rewind and crank up the volume for funk-filled performances and playlists. atlantafestivals.com n Take a “Coffee Break” with Spruill, weekdays at 10 a.m., as instructors at Spruill Center for the Arts go live

June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

n Elevate at-home movie watching

n Marvel at the couture creations

with the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival’s online offerings, including AJFF in Conversation bi-weekly podcasts and monthly webinars (the first one featured Jesse Eisenberg), and the AJFF Playback interactive film contest. There’s also a blog of recommended flicks, from movie musicals to films about food. ajff.org

of Azzedine Alaïa and Gilbert Adrian in “Alaïa-Adrian: Masters of Cut,” presented online by the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film. Adrian designed costumes for hundreds of MGM films (most notably, The Wizard of Oz) and outfitted such stars as Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford during Hollywood’s Golden Age.

“Masters of Cut” pairs the dazzling designs of Azzedine Alaïa (1935–2017) and Gilbert Adrian (1903–1959).

Alaïa, a Tunisian sculptor turned Parisian designer, dressed a runway of supermodels, from Naomi Campbell to Linda Evangelista. scadfash.org, facebook.com/ SCADFASH, #MuseumFromHome

JOIN CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER FOR A VIRTUAL

BELIEVE BEYOND BOUNDARIES

JULY 11, 2020 | 7PM

AN EVENING HOSTED BY: JEFF FOXWORTHY FEATURING PERFORMANCES AND APPEARANCES BY: 2-TIME GRAMMY AWARD WINNER, MICHAEL BOLTON ROCK OF AGES HOLLYWOOD CAST COOKING DEMONSTRATION FROM PREMIERE ATLANTA CHEF: JAMIE ADAMS Also featuring Abby Bailey, Age 6

Learn more: believeball.org

S C EN E

Model is wearing a Hunter Bell maxi dress ($550), courtesy of Tootsies.

HORSING AROUND Cisco, a friendly 18-year-old paint horse, joined our cover models for a walk in a Serenbe field. PHOTO: Sara

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June 2020 | Simply Buckhead

Hanna

In response to COVID-19 and in an effort to help the medical community, Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead, in partnership with Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours is donating meals to medical staff at Grady Hospital. Visit twistedsoul.giftcardsuite.com

to learn more

Thanks for everything you do in service to your communities. And thanks for choosing

Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead.

Delivering to businesses & residences in Atlanta and surrounding areas

PLACE YOUR ORDER ONLINE AT HOLLYWOODFEED.COM

Text TAXES to 89800

Call Us 678-222-2320

oXYGenFinancial.com

Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS.

July

www.

CONTACT RYAN ELLISON AT:

We invite you to see the difference

Roswell 955 Canton Street Roswell, GA 30075 770.998.0440

Buckhead 3500 Lenox Road Atlanta, GA 30326 404.254.1899

littlealleysteak.com

recently hired Flawless Painting to take care of our new home’s interior and exterior painting, “ We including every cabinet and wall surface. The price was fair, work completed in a timely fashion, the crew cleaned up after themselves throughout the project, and came back to attend to all the last details. We are super happy with our fresh new look, and highly recommend Scott and his team for your next job! Joanne Hayes

“

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AFTER

The Best of Houzz for 6 Years in a Row.