The perfect house doesn’t exist. That’s not a shot at the talented custom home builders recognized in this issue as a Best. It’s just that there’s no one right way to build a house. Houses are personal and should be designed to suit the whims, routines, and preferences of the people who live in them. So while there’s no such thing as the perfect house, you can and should aspire to create your perfect house. Does that mean building something tailor-made from the ground up? It might! Others prefer renovating older homes to retain their hard-earned charm. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of both options, our story on the factors to consider before deciding to build or renovate is a must-read (pg. 86).
Of course, that’s just building a house. Creating a home you love is a different story. That’s something that happens once the garden takes shape following hours of toiling, in the wake of satisfying meals made and shared, and after years spent collecting enough curiosities and memories to fill four walls. In the pages ahead, you’ll find loads of inspiration and expert advice that, we trust, will help you build a home—and a life—you love.
Travelogue
Where I’ve been, what I’ve seen, and the things I’m excited about this summer.
Change of a dress.
I’ve expressed my love for caftans in our pages before. So imagine my excitement to see New Orleans–based Sue Sartor open an outpost in Snider Plaza. Their pretty caftans and dresses are perfect for a casual summer soiree.
“This perfect summer dress reminds me of a set of sheets with a yellow daisy pattern that my grandmother once had.”
Works of Arte.
If you are a fan of Arte wallcoverings, head to ID Collection’s showroom, which recently unveiled a new display of the Belgian brand’s stunning offerings. They instantly elevate any space.
Making a splash.
My staid old serveware just won’t do for summer pool parties. While making my rounds scouting product for this issue, these Blue Pheasant resin dining pieces at Made Goods caught my eye. I can’t decide whether to scoop up a monochrome set or mix and match shades.
Let me eat cake.
Fellow sweet teeth, rejoice! Cake Bar opened a new, larger location at 2629 N. Stemmons Fwy. in March. The fact that it’s a stone’s throw from the Design District—making it perfect for a mid-scouting-spree sweet treat—is just icing on the … well, you know.
Fortuny favors the bold.
I find red can be a hard color to incorporate into decor, but I love the the tension of it paired with blue in this Fortuny fabric.
Get out!
I fell in love with these chairs at Garde and wished aloud that they would come in an outdoor version. The helpful staff informed me that they, in fact, do! Lesson learned: Always speak up.
“These stunning chairs also come in an outdoor version.”
Stateside arrival.
Stop by the new Irving Boulevard showroom of Brooks Thomas to browse their array of British textiles, wallcoverings, lighting, and furniture. Anglophile or not, you’re sure to love the selection.
The fountainhead.
I think every garden should have a fountain. I’m especially partial to the patina of antique ones, like this 17th-century beauty I spied at Pittet Architecturals. Given that it’s the small, crudely carved head that makes it memorable, it’s no surprise that I can’t get this one out of mine.
The spice of life.
Travel exposes us to new people, places, and cuisines. These spice books are a great way to sample unique flavors without committing to a full jar. They also remind me of meals I’ve had on favorite trips—which reminds me that I need to get a jump on planning my summer itinerary! Let me know where you’re heading—maybe I’ll see you there.
Bouquet sculpture, Coco & Dash, $625
“Missing a green thumb? This floral sculpture is as low-maintanence as gardening gets.”
“Another one bites” plate, Scout Design Studio, $85
“I love a fun take on traditional blue and white. Plus, I like pie!”
Assorted spreads, Marcel Market, from $7
“The French know their spreads! My favorite burger toppings come from Marcel Market.”