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| Amy Carper and her husband Chris |
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| Park Hill Studio |
Search Results for: little house
Highway 10
Once a spartan corridor to the west, Highway 10 is a bustling business district thanks to continued residential and commercial development. With neighborhoods like Chenal Valley and Bella Rosa Estates expanding to accommodate a growing population, businesses have followed suit. From the recently developed Pleasant Ridge Town Center, filled with loads of shopping and dining options, to various smaller shopping centers and roadside restaurants and shops, Highway 10 has plenty to offer residents and visitors alike.
SHOP
ARKANSAS GARDEN CENTER & NURSERY
15603 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-9933
Beautify your lawn and garden with help from the pros at Arkansas Garden Center & Nursery. You’ll find plenty of in-stock plants, trees, shrubs and flowers in the greenhouse, as well as lots of gardening accessories.
BEYOND COTTON
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-221-1539
At the second location of this Little Rock favorite, you’ll find apparel from labels like Dolan and Thorn, as well as great bags, shoes and jewelry.
BURNETT INTERIORS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-228-5688
Interior designer Ken Burnett’s storefront, Burnett Interiors, offers a well-edited selection of classic and traditional furnishings and accessories, from art and lighting to decorative accents.
COMPANIONS
14810 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-8484
Whether you’re dressing up or dressing down, Companions has fashion-forward looks for any occasion. With apparel from Trina Turk, Ted Baker, Parameter and Paige Premium Denim, as well as amazing accessories, you’ll have no trouble finding your new favorite outfit.
CUPCAKES & CATERPILLARS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-224-4747
Featuring apparel for infant and toddler boys and infant to size 7-10 girls, you’ll find clothing by Haute Baby, Cach Cach, Mulberribush, Kate Mack and more, as well as shoes, accessories, toys, books and gifts.
DAVID CLAIBOURNE, LTD.
14901 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-3400
With a 46,000-square-foot showroom, you’ll want to set aside plenty of time to explore the offerings at David Claibourne, Ltd. This award-winning decorative market is filled with furniture for every room in the house, as well as antiques, lighting, art and decorative accessories, all displayed in room-like settings.
FAUX PAS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-716-2548
At their newly opened second location, Faux Pas stocks the most fabulous jewelry from names like G. Spinelli, Majorica pearls, Kenneth Jay Lane, Maya, Patrice and Brighton, as well as handbags from Mary Frances and Tano.
FREDDIE’S PRINTING & STATIONERY
14710 Cantrell Rd., Ste. 13A, 501-664-9444
From custom creations to boxed invitations, thank you notes and photo albums, you’ll find everything you need for your special event at Freddie’s.
FROCK N SOLE
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-228-8885
One of the newest additions to the Pleasant Ridge Town Center, this shop’s name says it all. With absolutely adorable dresses and separates from hip names like Plenty by Tracy Reese, Frock N Sole can outfit you for a fab night on the town.
FRONTIERS ADVENTURE OUTFITTERS
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-227-4157
Whether you’re fly-fishing, hiking, camping or just exploring, you’ll find all the necessary gear at Frontiers Adventure Outfitters. With brands like Merrell, Orvis, Marmot, Mountain Khakis, Patagonia and more for men and women, you’ll be well-equipped for your next adventure.
GLO LIMITED
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-224-8222
Treat yourself to a facial or one of their other pampering services, then stock up on products from top hair care, skin care and cosmetic brands, including Bare Escentuals, Chantecaille, Philosophy and many more.
THE GOOD EARTH
15601 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-4666
Boasting five beautiful acres filled with trees, plants, shrubs and flowers. The Good Earth Garden Center has been serving Arkansas green thumbs for more than 25 years. You’ll also find great gifts for the gardener and treats for feathered friends.
INDIGO HOME
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-5550
Specializing in Asian antiques, Indigo Home hand-selects items from China, India, Mongolia, Tibet, Vietnam and the Philippines, from large furnishings to decorative accessories and art.
INTERIOR EXPRESSIONS
14810 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-9982
Traditional furnishings, decorative accessories, lighting and art are just a few of the offerings here, as well as complete interior design services.
I.O. METRO
12911 Cantrell Rd., 501-217-0300
You’ll find a wide array of eclectic furnishings and accessories at I.O. Metro. Featuring imports from 14 countries, I.O. Metro always has something different, and you’re certain to find a new accent for your home.
NIA-JA’S
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-217-4007
For trendy duds for women and children, look no further than Nia-Ja’s. Labels like Ed Hardy, BCBG Girls and A.B.S. dominate the racks, and you’ll also find cool jewelry, bags and belts.
M2 GALLERY
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-6257
New to the Little Rock arts scene, M2 Gallery boasts a wonderful collection of works from Arkansas artists like Nathan Beatty, Jason Gammel, V.L. Cox, Amy Laser, Ruben Morawicki, Cathy Burns and Gail Stoops, as well as custom framing services.
MINX
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-223-8879
For the best in high fashion, look no further than Minx. An amazing selection of apparel from world-renowned designers like Zac Posen, Vivienne Westwood, Anna Sui, Helmut Lang and Development and accessories from Botkier and Tracy Reese create a luxe shopping experience.
MOLLY’S PAPERIE
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-217-8900
Create fabulous personalized stationery at Molly’s Paperie’s second Little Rock location. From Kate Spade note cards to invitations, as well as unique gifts, you’ll find everything you need for your correspondence needs.
SALON DEVAL
8201 Ranch Blvd., 501-868-3076
Treat yourself to a pampering day at Salon DeVal. Indulge in a spa manicure and pedicure, and let the stylists transform your look with a sleek new cut or color.
THE SASSY STORK
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-661-5151
From jeans and tees to formal attire, enjoy your pregnancy in style! The Sassy Stork carries haute maternity clothes from Japanese Weekend, Maternal America, Hot Slings, Citizens of Humanity and Paper Denim and Cloth, as well as plenty of accessories and nursing essentials.
SCARLET
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-223-8585
For the young and hip, Scarlet has all the latest trends from the hottest brands, including Tsubi, Rachael Pally, True Religion, Rock & Republic, Tart, La Rok and Rebel Yell.
T. LAMARR INTERIORS & FINE ART
5501 Ranch Dr., Ste. 2, 501-868-9882
Interior designer Tobi Fairley’s storefront offers a sampling of furnishings and accessories available from the designer, while the adjoining art gallery features works from Arkansas artists like Ashley Saer, Arden Boyce, Virginia McKimmey, Shelia Cotton, Laura Laser and more.
TUCK & COVER
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-8825
Treat your little one with custom bedding, draperies, decorative accessories, gifts and more from this delightful and imaginative shop.
VESTA’S
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-375-7820
Whether you’re shopping for a stylish new outfit, luxurious bedding, home accessories, unique jewelry, hip handbags or gifts, Vesta’s always has exactly what you’re looking for.
WARREN’S
Pleasant Ridge Town Center,
501-225-3515
Your feet will love you for taking them to Warren’s. Packed with amazing shoes in every style, you’re certain to have a spring in your step after a trip to this popular boutique..
DINE
BARE BONES BBQ
5501 Ranch Rd., Ste. 4, 501-868-7427
For ribs, sandwiches and all the trimmings, Bare Bones BBQ can’t be beat for lunch and dinner.
BLUE CAKE COMPANY
14710 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-7771
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to the Blue Cake Company, where cakes, cupcakes, petit fours, pies, cookies and more are all made from scratch.
CAPERS
14502 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-7600
Whether you go for lunch or dinner, Capers is certain to treat your taste buds. Seasonal menus include perennial favorites such as the confetti dip and Arkansas’ Best Salad, as well as classic entrées like herb-crusted tilapia, peach-glazed pork tenderloin and rack of lamb. Be sure to check out the Market at Capers for take-home versions of menu superstars.
CATFISH CITY & BBQ GRILL
14800 Cantrell Rd., 501-868-7171
As the name implies, Catfish City & BBQ Grill’s west Little Rock location has plenty of catfish combinations, and much more. A full menu offers appetizers like fried mushrooms, onion rings and grilled shrimp, and entrées like catfish and shrimp combos, chicken, steaks, burgers, frog legs and lots of barbecue options.
CREW
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 501-223-3553
Upscale dining in a relaxed atmosphere is the name of the game at Crew, where lunch and dinner are always packed. From quesadillas and fries to steaks and pasta dishes, you’ll enjoy the offerings at Crew.
IMAGINE, A RESTAURANT
Pleasant Ridge Town Center, Ste. 917, 501-801-5530
Using fresh, local ingredients, the team at Imagine creates spectacular pasta and seafood dishes, as well as wonderful appetizers, chicken entrées and steaks. Open for lunch, dinner and brunch, Imagine also has a vast wine list.
IZZY’S
5601 Ranch Dr., 501-868-4311
Boasting a warm, family friendly atmosphere, Izzy’s offers awesome tamales, brick-oven pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, pasta and salads, and their large menu promises something for everyone.
In the Mood to Give
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| The Moodys’ hallway boasts a warm color palette with interesting textures thanks to the light fixtures, draperies and antique furnishings. |
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| The Moodys’ hallway boasts a warm color palette with interesting textures thanks to the light fixtures, draperies and antique furnishings. |
The month of February is often associated with love and Valentine’s Day. Appropriately, the American Heart Association of Arkansas schedules their Heart Ball gala during this heart-focused time. Complete with wonderful food and amazing auction items, this year’s event will be held on February 16 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, and it’s a night not to be missed. Angela Moody, a member of this year’s auction committee, has a long history with the American Heart Association, and she invited us into her home to discuss her dedication to and experience with this important organization.
“I’ve been involved with the Heart Association nearly all my life,” she says. “The first fundraiser I ever participated in as a child was Jump Rope for Heart. In 1999, I joined the staff of the American Heart Association in northwest Arkansas, and the very next year I was promoted to executive director of the region. Soon afterwards, I was named Arkansas field operations director, and in 2000, the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal named me a finalist for non-profit executive of the year. I’m passionate about the association because of familial experiences, and I know firsthand that the money raised by the association truly helps to save lives.” Angela’s grandfather was one of the early bypass surgery patients of Dr. Michael DeBakey of Houston, Texas, who pioneered the now-common bypass surgery procedure. “This procedure extended my grandfather’s life by 10 years. My stepfather has also had several heart procedures, and I know that he is still with us thanks to the developments and discoveries of talented doctors and researchers.”
Although Angela loved her work with the northwest Arkansas Heart Association, she decided to relocate to Little Rock, where she met and married her husband Edward. Together, the couple now supports the Little Rock-based office. Because family is so important to the Moodys, they wanted a warm and welcoming home in which their family could grow. “When we began our home search, we knew we were looking for some place that offered privacy and a little acreage. We wanted to remain in Little Rock, and we were curious about a listing we noticed on Thomas Park. Our real estate agent, John Rogers, suggested we view the house, and we immediately fell in love. It’s tucked away in west Little Rock and offers breathtaking views of Pinnacle Mountain and the Little Maumelle River. It truly feels like estate living in a convenient location.” Dr. Jerry and Evelyn Thomas, who contracted with John Ulmer, originally built the home in 1974. The home was designed to accommodate the Thomas’ large family of six children, including noted local artist Barry Thomas. “Barry says this home continues to provide him with inspiration for his artwork,” Angela says. “The Thomas family developed the surrounding neighborhood, and we were able to purchase the home straight from them.”
The Moodys appreciated the good bones and open floor plan of the house, but decided to renovate certain aspects to provide a more formal feel. “We added marble and Ann Sacks tile to all the bathrooms. We added a fireplace, refinished the hardwood floors and renovated and upgraded the kitchen,” Angela says. “Thankfully the home was in such great condition we are able to simply focus on tailoring the house to our lifestyle.” To take advantage of this welcoming and unique house, Angela and Edward have donated a party at their home for the Heart Ball auction. Named “Dining Gubernatorial Style,” the dinner party will host 10 people and will feature cuisine prepared by the Governor’s Mansion chef, Jason Knapp. “I think it will be a great party,” Angela says, “and we hope it raises lots of money for the Heart Association.”
Tom Chandler
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| A variety of decorative objects adds texture to a bookcase in Chandler’s office. |
Tom Chandler’s day begins while most people are still sleeping. Usually awake by 3:30 a.m. and at his Riverdale office by 5:00 a.m., Tom fills each day with as many meetings, consultations, installations and classes as possible. “I tend to exhaust everyone around me,” he says. It’s not unusual for him to work six days out of the week, along with an evening or two. Tom jokes that he’s been exhausted for 40 years, but in truth, he just loves what he does.
Joining the design business 30 years ago, he initially worked out of his car, charging $15 an hour. But it wasn’t long before word spread of Tom’s keen eye for design and his unmistakable attention to detail. He opened Chandler & Associates in 1980, and the Chandler School of Interior Decorating in 1981. His design firm has grown exponentially throughout the years, and he now employs a 16-member team. “It really takes a team to accomplish what we do,” he says. “Every person has a specialty, whether it be fabric, logistics, accessories or floral design, and combining all of these aspects promises well-designed homes for our clients.”
Tom and his team enjoy all sizes and specifications of projects; however, their true talents are utilized from the ground up. “We love to get in on a project in the very beginning phases,” he says. “We’ll work on floor plans, traffic patterns, paint, wallcoverings and more, leading up to the finishing touches of furniture placement, accessories and florals.” It’s this attention to detail that makes Tom and the team famous for their installations. “The full installations are always great to work on,” he says. “We ask the homeowners to leave the house for a day or two, and we arrive with truckloads of artwork, furnishings and accessories. This gives us time to work with the home, furniture placement, create lighting schemes and truly get the feel for the space and how everything works. When we are finished, we completely stage the house, including candles and flowers, for the homeowners’ arrival. The entire team gathers in front to welcome them home. It’s quite a production, and it’s always fun to see their reactions.”
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| Classes at the Chandler School of Interior Decorating include lectures, home tours and lots of hands-on learning. |
Through Chandler School of Interior Decorating, Tom offers students of all ages and experiences one-of-a-kind instruction in all things interior design. “The first class I ever taught was a design class at a community college,” he says. “There was one student, and I taught that one student for 16 weeks, four hours every Thursday night. After a while, I decided I wanted to try teaching on my own, and I opened the Chandler School. I now teach two to three semesters a year, and I lost count the year I passed 10,000 students. I’ve had the joy of watching many of my students grow and open their own design firms. My students have a lot to do with who I’ve become, and I hope I’ve had something to do with who they have become.”
Students sign up for a 12-week session of Tuesday evening classes where they learn the ins and outs of interior decorating. Classes consist of lectures from Tom and other professionals, home tours and hands-on learning. It’s not unusual for Tom to lecture on the correct uses, sizes and types of Oriental rugs and then take the class to an Oriental rug resource for hands-on examples.
Tom’s energy and zest for life spill over into his classes. His early rising hours, constantly full schedule and the fact that he stands at his desk to keep his energy level high, influenced one student to make him a plaque, which now hangs above the door to his office. It reads “Get up early in the morning and be the best you can be.” “I say that at least once during every class, and I find that it’s true,” he says. “Often times, students take my class at turning points in their lives, and I take this seriously. Many drive from far away each week, and I don’t want to waste their time. I want each and every student to get the most they can from their time with me. We usually have several students with degrees in design, although we’ve had a high school student and a 77-year-old woman. We always run the gamut. And, we have had several people take the class more than once. One student has taken it four times.”
From teaching classes to designing homes, Tom’s talent has spread outside the borders of Arkansas and across the country. “We can have 75 to 90 jobs at one time all over the country,” he says. “While some of those just need small items to be complete, it’s a lot of work to coordinate and take care of that many clients, especially with the traveling. It’s not unusual for us to be working out of town 40 percent of the time. And I’m right there in the thick of it. I’m as happy driving the moving van as I am placing a sofa or drawing floor plans. I’m fortunate that I’m able to do what I love and make a living.”
2007 Rooms in Review: Bedrooms
Featured in our January issue, “New Year, New You,” the master bedroom of Ashley and Dave Anderson is the ideal complement to their contemporary-flavored, mid-century home in Little Rock. Dave, a photographer, is particularly drawn to strong, graphic prints like those in the bedding, something interior designer Susan Walsh of Bear-Hill Interiors in Little Rock kept in mind while developing the design for the entire home. The bedroom was an essential component of the home’s remodel, led by Chris Smith of Allison Architects and builder Chris DeBin. Photo by Nancy Nolan
For the 2007 Build for the Cure Idea House, interior designer Garry Mertins of mertinsdykehome and Garry Mertins Design in Little Rock created a dramatic master suite, which opens onto the backyard pool via three sets of French doors topped with arched windows. The space’s strong architecture, including the tray ceiling and series of pilasters, provided an excellent jumping-off point for Garry’s design, which includes classically formed furnishings in intense neutral hues, like the buttery leather Hickory Chair club chairs and Thomas O’Brien’s Chelsea bed for Hickory Chair, dressed in linens from Ann Gish. Photo by Nancy Nolan
A designer herself, Amanda Adcock Pambianchi found the ideal collaborator for her own McGehee home in friend Kevin Walsh, of Bear-Hill Interiors in Little Rock. Located on 40 acres farmed by her family, the home Amanda shares with her husband Charles and children Anthony and Anna, which was featured in our August “Family Homes” issue, was initially inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and is filled with traditional furnishings with a modern edge. The luxuriously monochromatic master bedroom’s Murano glass chandelier and mirrored side tables reflect the deep neutrals of the bedding, draperies and upholstery for an incredibly cozy effect.
Photo by Nancy Nolan
Color and pattern provide an immediate wow factor in the master suite of Dayna and Reggie Gober’s Hillcrest cottage, shown in the February “Cottage Chic” issue. Dayna, who recently started her own design business, dg designs, has always been fascinated with the way color affects one’s mood, and the bright yellows, reds and oranges of the room’s dominant fabric, from Cynthia East Fabrics in Little Rock, were definitely chosen with happiness in mind. Framing a sheet of corrugated metal, the draperies become a graphic, oversized headboard that makes the most of the relatively small space, while the mixture of patterns keeps the playful vibe going. Photo by Janet Warlick
Architecturally Planned
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| Lush landscaping in a range of pinks greets guests just inside the picket fence, which features taller corner posts that add layers of interest to the view of the house from the street while continuing the architectural shapes from the columns of the home. | Low-e wood windows afford energy efficient insulation, while the detailed woodworking of the door and the unique house numbers stay true to the period of the home. |
A Sentimental Holiday
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“It’s always Christmas before Thanksgiving at our home,” says Kim Jirik of her northwest Lonoke County house. “Our friends laugh, but we always enjoy the holiday so much, and we tend to go a little overboard when decorating.” Kim and her husband, Dr. Samuel Jirik, built their home in 1996 on 30 acres, complete with breathtaking views of the valley below. “We incorporated 18-foot pine ceilings and beams to enhance the rustic, tree-house feel,” Kim says. “We wanted plenty of room so we could be together as a family, and have room to entertain as well.”
The house was originally built without a fireplace, but that changed after the Jiriks discovered a Victorian-era mantel at Morris Antiques in Keo. Made of tiger oak with carved acanthus leaves, the mantel and fireplace have become a beautiful focal point during the holidays and throughout the year. “The mantel holds the all-important Christmas stockings, and it’s also a great place for a little glitz and glam,” she says.
The Jiriks enlist the help of LaMarche Interiors for the overall interior design of the home and Shelly Clifton Designs for the holiday décor. “I know the Jiriks’ like a flair of contemporary with a twist of traditional,” Shelly says. “And, I like to focus on the items they already own when decorating, and then fill in with new items. It builds the design each year.” With the large-scale decorating taken care of, Kim and Samuel, with son William and daughter Annalise, have time to make Christmas special each year. They always start by unpacking the nativity scene together, and talking about every figure and their significance. “Afterwards, Annalise and I decorate the tree together,” Kim says. “We’ve also started a new tradition of baking together, and last year we spent an entire Saturday with friends making Christmas treats for the kids’ teachers.”
For the home’s décor, Kim finds herself drawn to a mix of contemporary and traditional decorations. “I want our home to feel warm and inviting—a place to sit and enjoy each other’s company. I use many of the same items from year to year, but I always find something new to add.” Artwork also plays an important roll in the Jirik house, and Kim discovered Sandy Hubler’s work at The Showroom in Little Rock. “I was completely taken with Sandy’s work,” she says. “I have four of her pieces, and I always see something new as the light changes.”
Kaki Hockersmith, Allied ASID
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With the home completed, Kaki and Max enjoy spending time in every area. “We really live in this house,” she says. “We’ll have coffee in the front courtyard, lunch in the pergola and a glass of wine on the second-floor balcony.” While Kaki’s first love is design, she has found an equal affinity for entertaining. “I find that planning a party or an event is very similar to planning a home,” she says. “They are both a creative production with a consistent style, theme and colors, and there is always a team of subcontractors to coordinate, from the caterers to the musicians. I find many parallels, and that’s possibly why I enjoy both so much.”
Through her full-service design firm, Kaki Hockersmith Interiors in Little Rock, Kaki offers her clients a true one-stop shop. “We really work with the client from the initial concept to completion.” Kaki and her team begin with the architectural structure of the project and often hand their drawings and renditions directly over to the contractors. Millwork is a personal favorite of Kaki’s, and she is a hands-on contributor to the design and creation of each piece. “I’m not a fan of the traditional built-in furnishings, but we use beautiful millwork to create pieces that present themselves as furniture, not just storage,” she says. “We also custom-make furniture. We can design any piece of furniture and cover it with one of the thousands of fabrics I offer.” Walking through Kaki’s office, guests find room after room of door samples, fabric books, artwork, hard surfaces and more, including the Wood-Mode kitchen and showroom bathroom. “When we give a presentation to a client, we simply walk in the other room and pull a sample of exactly what we’re talking about,” she says. “Our resource rooms offer clients a hands-on and visual experience. The best part about all my experiences and the friendships with design professionals and business owners I’ve developed over the years and around the world is that I can bring them directly to my clients.”
Stuttgart Wings Over the Prairie
 
A few items from Ragans Gifts.
Wilkerson Jewelers
November is an exciting time in Stuttgart, as this close-knit community assumes its role as the “rice and duck capital of the world,” welcoming the influx of waterfowl enthusiasts who hope to take advantage of the superior hunting opportunities provided by the area’s prime location on the Mississippi flyway, where countless migratory geese and ducks spend a portion of their winter. To celebrate the occasion, Stuttgart hosts the annual Wings Over the Prairie Festival, a week of events that includes the World Championship Duck Calling Contest. This year’s festival begins Saturday, November 18 with the Queen Mallard Pageant, followed by open house at the local downtown retailers on November 19. The carnival and duck calling events begin Wednesday, November 22, while the arts and crafts fair kicks off on the Friday after Thanksgiving, November 24. The festival continues through Saturday, November 25, culminating in the Duck Gumbo cook off and World Championship Duck Calling event. Shopping Spectacular, service-oriented retailers are a big part of Stuttgart’s appeal, with many stores located on and around Main Street. Shop the selection of high-quality home furnishings at Mayn-Mart, where names like Broyhill, Rowe, Ashley, Pulaski and Hooker fill the showroom. At Morris & Co. Romancing the Home, floral and interior design are the specialties, and a hand-picked array of gifts and home décor is sure to catch your eye. Known for their furnishings, Buerkle Furniture also offers custom bedding and window treatments, interior design services, and all the elements to complete the look of your home, from wallcoverings and flooring, to stone, tile and countertops. We love all the goodies at Ragans Gifts, including a wide selection of Arthur Court Designs pieces, Vietri pottery and Wedgwood china, along with irresistible gourmet foods from Stonewall Kitchen. Gifts, home accessories and jewelry fill the shelves at The Added Touch, along with candles by Yankee and Root and a full selection of Lampe Berger. Full-service florist Fern and Feather is also known for their chic and sophisticated gifts, holiday décor, flags and stationery, while Coker Hampton offers plenty of décor and accessories from names like Vera Bradley. You can’t make a trip to Stuttgart without stopping in Wilkerson Jewelers, where oodles of diamonds by Hearts on Fire are joined by fashionable favorites like Tag Heuer watches. Ladies will love the apparel at accessories from brands like Tribal at Ware Haus, and Lumber One has everything you need to outfit your home from start to finish, from flooring, paint, fencing and Andersen windows and doors, to patio furniture and rugs. And at S&W Nursery & Produce, you can browse row after row of lush botanicals and even take home some local delicacies. For a true Grand Prairie experience, you have to set aside plenty of time to visit Mack’s Prairie Wings, America’s premier waterfowl outfitter. Whether you’re in the market for clothing, hunting gear, hunting dog supplies or even outdoor-inspired home décor, they’re sure to have plenty of options to choose from. And just next door, RNT Duck Calls, started in 1976 by world champion duck caller Butch Richenback, hand-crafts versatile, realistic duck calls for passionate hunters the world over. Dining The premier culinary event during Wings Over the Prairie is the Duck Gumbo cook off on Saturday, November 25. This is a legendary party that you won’t want to miss, with 48 teams competing for the title of world’s best duck gumbo, the music of Superflux and a fun-loving crowd that’s sure to include old friends you haven’t seen in years. Along with sampling all the fried delights the carnival midway has to offer, be sure to stop in local favorite The Little Chef for delicious Southern home cooking, or La Petite Cajun Bistro for plenty of seafood and Cajun specialties. Entertainment Explore the area’s agriculture past (and future) at the Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie. This award-winning museum has a huge range of interpretive exhibits that are sure to engage kids of all ages, plus lots of awe-inspiring machinery from days past. Lodging An easy hour’s drive from Little Rock, Stuttgart has a few national hotel chains to choose from if you’d like to stay overnight, but for the full effect, make arrangements to stay at one of the myriad of hunting lodges and camps in the area. From more luxurious options like the amenity-laden Wildlife Farms to more rustic accommodations, these lodges can set up hunting trips of a variety of lengths or leave you to enjoy the natural wonders of this amazing location. Contact the Stuttgart area chamber of commerce at 870-673-1602 or www.stuttgartarkansas.org for a current and complete list.
Mayn Mart 870-673-1953 |
Wings Over the Prairie Festival, Stuttgart Chamber of Commerce 870-673-1602, Go with the Flow
Great gardens and backyard spaces are truly a feast for the senses, from the breathtaking sights of fall’s blazing hues, to the sweet smell of success of a rose garden, to the taste of a salad fresh from the veggie harvest, to the tactile pleasure of new foliage. And thanks to trickling streams and bubbling fountains, water features are the ultimate treat to the ears, producing relaxing sounds and creating tranquil atmospheres for homeowners to enjoy.
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You would never guess that this lush patch of paradise is located within a bustling city neighborhood, but Pat Brown’s waterfall in the backyard of his Candlewood Estates home in Fayetteville is part of a larger landscape—waterfall flows into the hot tub, which in turn flows into the swimming pool, all of which is crafted of fieldstone to duplicate the appeal of a real swimming hole. Implementing materials such as native stone is an ideal way to maintain the natural beauty of such a space. The project was designed by Travis Brooks and EB Landworks, Inc., both of Fayetteville, and the pools itself was created by Seaside Pools of Springdale. |
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In Randy Jeffrey and Scott Shepard’s urban backyard, a wide variety of flora species surround an equally freeform and creative water feature. The koi pond, framed with traditional red brick and accented with a mosaic design hand-applied by Jeffrey, boasts a fun fountain shaped like a fish out of water, the perfect complement to the numerous orange and white koi residing in the pond. Even better, the water feature lends a soothing touch to the nearby seating area in this Little Rock garden. |
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Mary Ellen and Bob Warner’s formal garden in Jonesboro boasts an elegant 5,000-gallon brick and granite koi pond as its centerpiece. The oversized nature of the water feature is perfect, since both the living room and entertainment area of the historic home’s guest house open onto the garden, providing an instant breathtaking view. Aquatic plantings, understated water spouts and statuary accent this delightful backyard spot. |
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To ensure water features can be enjoyed both day and night lighting is essential. Built by Joe Barnett of Little Rock Land Design, the natural stone waterfall at the home of Bob and Helen Adkins is visible to guests entering the front hall and makes for a dramatic greeting during evening gatherings, thanks to tree-mounted spotlights that expertly illuminate the waterfall and koi pond below. |
