Cullman, AL March 2026

Home is where your heart rests

There’s a reason the word home carries so much weight. Home is where stories unfold — on front porches worn smooth by generations, around kitchen tables that have heard laughter, prayers and hard conversations. It’s where we feel most like ourselves. Where we exhale. Where our hearts settle.

Design says a lot about who we are. Not in a flashy way — but in the quiet details. The way light falls across a room in the afternoon. The choice to keep a home warm, lived-in and welcoming rather than perfect. Southern design has always understood that the best spaces are meant to be used, not just admired.

In our Home & Design issue, we celebrate that philosophy. The homes, builders, designers and local businesses featured here understand that true design isn’t about trends — it’s about intention. About creating spaces where people gather, grow and feel grounded.

Cullman is home. From lake houses to farmhouses, historic homes to modern builds, there’s a shared thread here: a love for comfort, craftsmanship and connection. It’s down-home. It’s thoughtful. And it feels like belonging.

We hope this issue inspires you to see your own home a little differently — to appreciate the spaces that hold your life, your people and your memories. Because home isn’t just where you live.

It’s where your heart rests.

Warmly,

MISSY GURLEY, PUBLISHER

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Kathy Sims of Alfa Insurance donated bags and bookmarks to the Cullman County Public Library. 2: Each month, Kathy Sims recognizes one Cullman Bearcat and one Lady Bearcat player. 3: Jubilee Kitchen + Bar is a great way to celebrate with friends. Cheers! 4: Dr. Rebekah Lloyd hosted a women’s workshop filled with courage and community. 5: Great friends - Mike Tucker of LifeWork Physical Therapy with Calvin “Coffee Bean” Powers 6: Declan Yearwood of ProWorx is pictured with Alabama Rep. Scott Stadthagen.

business monthly

Salty Light Creative

Taylor Blake is a local author and creative advocate who leads Salty Light Creative, a boutique studio offering brand marketing, logo design and editorial support. Through thoughtful visuals, editing, formatting and self-publishing guidance, Salty Light Creative helps authors and small businesses bring their stories and brands to life with clarity and purpose.

saltylightco.com | taylor@saltylightco.com

GLS Supply Kitchen & Bath Showroom — Cullman

GLS Supply Kitchen &Bath Showroom — Cullman is a trusted local source for quality plumbing supplies, serving contractors and homeowners across the Cullman area. Known for dependable products and knowledgeable service, the team helps bring projects to life — whether it’s new construction, renovations or everyday needs. GLS is committed to supporting our local building community with reliability you can count on.

Visit the local showroom at 1536 Fourth St. SW or call 256-775-0411.

Want to be featured?

BL Luxury Styling

Owned and designed by Baret Lane McMillan, BL Luxury Styling creates elevated seasonal installations blending couture design with timeless tradition. Known for premium ornaments, layered textures and artful ribboning, BL Luxury Styling makes each display feel both festive and refined. From Christmas décor to ambient hosting scenes, BL Luxury Styling transforms spaces into unforgettable centerpieces.

205-412-8024 | Designs available upon request.

COMMITMENT TO CRAFTSMANSHIP

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUMMERTOWN METALS

In the quiet hills of Summertown, Tennessee, a small family-owned business began with a simple promise to offer durable materials at a fair price, and never sell anything you wouldn’t trust to stand for generations. That was 2006. Today, Summertown Metals has grown into one of the Southeast’s most respected names in metal buildings, barndominiums and custom residential structures — yet the heart of the company remains exactly where it started.

“Our clients work hard for their money, and they deserve structures that work just as hard for them.”

“We’ve always believed good business is an equal exchange of value,” said Owner Matt Stoll. “Our clients work hard for their money, and they deserve structures that work just as hard for them.”

What began as a local building materials supplier has evolved into a full-scale design-and-build operation known for thoughtful craftsmanship, warm aesthetics and a commitment to integrity that’s evident into every project. The company’s owners are experienced builders themselves, giving them a rare advantage: they don’t just sell materials — they understand how those materials perform in the real world.

WHERE DURABILITY MEETS DESIGN

Summertown Metals rejects the idea that homeowners must choose between beauty and longevity, instead believing the two are inseparable. Its residential builds pair high-performance materials with natural, inviting finishes. Metal panels — crafted with Axzo Nobel painted steel — offer the look of natural wood without the maintenance

headaches. Cypress accents add warmth and charm while resisting rot and insects. The result is a home that looks stunning on day one and still stands strong decades later.

With thousands of barndominiums completed, the company has refined a process that blends structural integrity with design-forward thinking.

“Durability and aesthetics aren’t opposing forces,” Stoll explained. “They’re complementary. A home should be beautiful, but it should also be built to last.”

WHY BARNDOMINIUMS ARE BOOMING

Across the country, barndominiums have surged in popularity — and Summertown Metals has been at the forefront of that movement. The appeal is easy to understand: lower cost per square foot, striking design and minimal maintenance.

But what truly sets Summertown apart is its commitment to short build cycles, quality, service and bringing clients consistent value with every build.

Each build features 2x6 exterior studs, wood truss

or framed roofing systems and a monolithic slab foundation. They’re built to IRC residential code, making them stronger than many standard frame homes while offering the same flexibility for interior finishes. Metal roofing and siding add long-term durability with virtually no upkeep.

This combination of strength and style makes the homes easy to finance, insure and appraise. “Lenders love them,” said Stoll. “There’s equity in our homes immediately after they’re built.”

CHALLENGING MISCONCEPTIONS

Barndominiums often get lumped into two categories: steel-framed commercial-style buildings or post-frame (pole barn) structures. Both can be difficult to finish out and may pose long-term challenges.

Summertown Metals takes a different approach.

Its homes are traditional wood-framed residences built on monolithic slabs — homes that simply embrace the barndominium aesthetic. This method eliminates the settling and warping issues associated with post-frame construction and avoids the industrial feel of steel framing.

“What surprises most clients is how warm, customizable and refined these homes can be,” Stoll said.

From exterior finishes to interior layouts, Summertown Metals proves that barndominiums can be every bit as personal and polished as a conventional home — just stronger and more efficient.

A DESIGN PROCESS ROOTED IN LISTENING

Every project begins with a conversation. “We want to understand how our customers want to live,” explained Stoll. “Not just what they want to build.”

From that first conversation, the process unfolds with clarity and collaboration:

• Concept development: The team balances function, budget and design goals to shape an initial vision

• CAD planning: In-house designers translate that vision into detailed construction plans

• Client review: Homeowners refine and approve the plans before moving forward

• Financing support: If needed, Summertown Metals connects clients with vetted lenders who understand its building model and offer competitive rates

• Construction: After contracts and deposits, construction begins — often within weeks. Shell packages can be completed in as little as two months, while turnkey homes average around eight months from financing approval

• Project management: Each build is overseen by a dedicated project manager, ensuring quality, communication and consistency from start to finish

“Our mission, ‘Build Dreams That Last,’ isn’t just a slogan. It’s a commitment to craftsmanship, honesty and the people we serve.”

- Owner Matt Stoll

The company’s goal is simple: that every client walks away feeling their life was positively impacted by the experience.

A LEGACY BUILT ON VALUES

Summertown Metals may have grown, but its foundation hasn’t changed. The company remains rooted in family, faith and the belief that relationships matter.

“Our mission, ‘Build Dreams That Last,’ isn’t just a slogan,” shared Stoll. “It’s a commitment to craftsmanship, honesty and the people we serve.”

Summertown Metals now has locations in Summertown, Tennessee; Hayden, Alabama; and Hopkinsville, Kentucky.

You can find everything from information about buildings, materials, site prep and financing on the company’s website, www.summertownmetals.com. Plus, while you’re there, peruse a photo gallery of completed projects.

Check out more at www.facebook.com/ Summertownmetals or www.instagram.com/ summertownmetals.

Find the Hayden location at 7760 County Hwy. 5, Hayden, Alabama 35079 or call 205-590-1521.

Premium stone craftsmanship, Southern integrity, personal service

A NAME WITH WEIGHT

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRANITE SOUTH

In an industry crowded with quick installs and trend-chasing materials, Jasper’s Granite South has carved out a reputation built on something far more enduring: personal service, meticulous craftsmanship and a genuine commitment to the community it serves.

“The company was founded to meet a clear local need — high-quality stone countertop design, fabrication and installation delivered with honesty and care,” said Owner Becky Brown.

That focus on relationships and workmanship helped Granite South grow steadily and earn an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, a reflection of the trust it has built slab by slab.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

For Brown, the Granite South name carries weight.

“When someone hears Granite South, I want an instant gut-level impression ,” she emphasized. “Granite South equals premium stone craftsmanship with Southern integrity and personal service.”

It’s a standard Brown’s team works to uphold in every interaction, from the first conversation to the final polish on a newly installed surface.

STONE SELECTION

Granite South’s inventory isn’t large by accident — it’s curated with intention. Every stone is chosen according to standards that protect the company’s reputation long before a slab reaches a customer’s home.

“When I chose stones for inventory at Granite South, decisions are guided by standards that quietly protect my reputation before the slab ever hits the floor,” explained Brown. “Quality first — no exceptions; timeless over trendy; design versatility; performance in real homes; consistency and supply reliability; and value that matches my promise.”

The result is a collection that balances beauty with durability, offering clients materials that will stand the test of time in both style and function.

CHOOSING WITH CONFIDENCE

With countless colors, textures and stone types available, the selection process can overwhelm even the most design-savvy homeowner.

“This is where you earn trust,” said Brown. “The goal isn’t to show them everything… it’s to help them feel confident choosing the right thing.”

By focusing on how a space is used and how a client wants it to feel, she guides people toward surfaces that fit their lifestyle as much as their aesthetic.

SHIFT IN PERCEPTION

Brown said she’s noticed a meaningful change in how clients think about stone.

“I have noticed that the way people think about stone has quietly but clearly shifted,” she explained. “It’s no longer just a surface — it’s part of how a space feels, functions and holds value. Stone is seen as an investment, not a splurge; there’s a preference for a softer, more natural look; and function and maintenance matter more than ever.”

EXCITEMENT FOR THE FUTURE

As fabrication technology and engineered materials continue to evolve, Brown said, “I’m excited about innovations that allow us to offer more beauty, durability and precision — while delivering an even better experience for our customers. As materials and technology evolve, our commitment to craftsmanship, integrity and timeless design remains the same.”

granitesouthinc.com

“When someone hears ‘Granite South,’ I want an instant gut-level impression: Granite South equals premium stone craftsmanship with Southern integrity and personal service.” – Becky Brown

“I’m excited about innovations that allow us to offer more beauty, durability and precision — while delivering an even better experience for our customers."

– Becky Brown

INSPIRED DESIGN MEETS EVERYDAY LIVING

VISIT RELIABLE FIREPLACE & PATIO IN BREMEN

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RELIABLE FIREPLACE & PATIO

In the heart of north Alabama’s lake-loving communities, Reliable Fireplace & Patio has quietly — and confidently — become a destination for homeowners who believe their living spaces should feel as beautiful as they are functional. Now, with a brand-new showroom opening this spring, the company is stepping into an exciting new chapter.

LEGACY OF CRAFTSMANSHIP, ELEVATED FOR MODERN LIVING

Reliable Fireplace & Patio is part of the Rodney L. Hawkins Enterprises, Inc. family of companies, owned by Rodney Hawkins. The business was

created with a clear vision: to bring design-forward thinking to fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and patio living.

What sets the company apart is its blend of refined craftsmanship and lifestyle-focused design.

“With more than 90 years of combined experience, our team understands how to create warm, inviting environments where families gather, relax and build memories,” said Reliable’s Karen Doss, “whether it’s a lakeside retreat or a cozy year-round home.”

SHOWROOM DESIGNED TO SPARK IMAGINATION

The new showroom is intentionally crafted to be an immersive, hands-on experience.

Visitors can explore live-burning fireplaces that showcase flame presentation, heat output and design possibilities; gas log displays that help homeowners compare styles and performance; outdoor kitchen concepts that bring alfresco living to life; and a dedicated design center where finishes, materials and layouts come together.

Said Doss, “Seeing scale, texture and flame in person empowers homeowners to make confident decisions — and to envision spaces that feel both luxurious and deeply personal.”

DESIGN TRENDS SHAPING TODAY’S HOMES

Doss said there’s a strong shift toward natural materials. Stone, granite, tile and concrete are leading the way, often paired with clean architectural lines and low-maintenance finishes.

“Linear and frameless fireplaces continue to increase in popularity, offering a sleek, modern aesthetic that blends seamlessly into both indoor and outdoor environments,” she said. “Mixed-material surrounds — think stone paired with wood or metal — create depth and visual interest, perfect for the relaxed sophistication of luxury lake living.”

EXPERT GUIDANCE FOR HOMEOWNERS STARTING A PROJECT

The team’s advice is simple but essential: plan early and thoughtfully.

Doss said structural framing, combustible clearances and utility infrastructure should be addressed at the beginning of a project — not midway through.

“Homeowners who share inspiration images, floor plans and dimensions early give their design team the tools to create a space that feels effortless and functions beautifully,” she said.

For newer spray-foam insulated homes, the team often recommends direct-vent fireplaces for optimal comfort, efficiency and peace of mind.

GRAND OPENING: MARCH 27–28, 2026

Reliable Fireplace & Patio is gearing up for a celebratory Grand Opening weekend, inviting homeowners to explore the new showroom and experience luxury fireplace and outdoor living design firsthand.

Private appointments are available prior to the event by calling 256 -747-2343.

Said Doss, “At Reliable Fireplace & Patio, we believe the most beautiful spaces are the ones where memories are made — season after season. With low-interest financing options available, turning your dream space into reality has never been more attainable.”

Reliable Fireplace & Patio is located at 27150 County Road 222 in Bremen, in Cullman County. Find it online at www.reliablefireplaceandpatio.com or call 256-747-2343.

ELEVATE your outdoor LIVING SPACE

Expertise, materials and community commitment

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROWORX

In the world of outdoor living and construction, choosing the right materials can make the difference between a project that thrives and one that falls short. ProWorx, the building supply division of Brothers Concrete Supply, “the go-to source for contractors, landscapers and DIY enthusiasts in Cullman, Alabama, and surrounding areas,” is a growing force in the landscaping and hardscape supply industry. There, helping customers make those decisions isn’t just part of the job — it’s the heart of the business.

GUIDANCE ROOTED IN REAL‑WORLD CONSTRUCTION EXPERIENCE

ProWorx approaches every project with a builder’s mindset. The team draws on hands-on construction experience to help homeowners, contractors and DIY enthusiasts navigate the often overwhelming world of outdoor materials. Taking time to understand each customer’s goals, they recommend solutions that balance performance, durability and budget.

“We carry a diverse range of products for landscaping and outdoor living such as colored mulch, compost, screened topsoil, decorative gravel, natural stone, long leaf pine straw, fire pits, grills, water features, decorative concrete stains and much more,” said Co-Owner Declan Yearwood. “We focus on everything you would need for your outdoor living and landscaping projects… except the plants.”

PREVENTING THE MOST COMMON PROJECT PITFALLS

With outdoor living projects increasing in scale and sophistication, ProWorx has seen its share of preventable missteps. Underestimating material quantities, choosing products unsuited

for the intended use, hiring underqualified contractors and failing to plan around lead times are among the most common.

“These mistakes can lead to delays, unexpected costs and long-term performance issues,” explained Yearwood. “ProWorx tackles these challenges head-on by getting involved early. We review project details, helps customers select the right materials and recommends reputable subcontractors in the area.”

The result is a smoother, more predictable building experience. CONTINUED >

DESIGN TRENDS SHAPING TODAY’S OUTDOOR SPACES

According to Yearwood, homeowners are increasingly drawn to outdoor living spaces that feel like natural extensions of their homes, and ProWorx has seen a surge in demand for durable, low-maintenance materials such as concrete pavers, porcelain pavers and natural stone with clean, consistent finishes.

Modern and transitional styles dominate the landscape, with neutral color palettes, larger-format pavers and sleek lines leading the way.

“Integrated seating, fire features, water elements and full outdoor kitchens are becoming staples; there’s a desire for functional, year-round living spaces,” he said. “Across the board, customers are prioritizing longevity, slip resistance and weather performance — qualities ProWorx emphasizes in its product recommendations.”

STAYING STOCKED IN AN UNPREDICT ABLE SUPPLY CHAIN ERA

In a time when supply chain disruptions have become the norm, ProWorx has managed to maintain impressive product availability — no small feat for a company in its first year of business.

“Local sourcing and regional partnerships play an important role in our business model by helping us provide more reliable product availability, shorter lead times and responsive customer support.” Yearwood said.

Local sourcing and regional partnerships are more than a convenience for ProWorx — they’re a cornerstone of the company’s business model. By working closely with regional suppliers, they gain insight into local preferences, reduce transportation delays and maintain consistent product quality, giving customers faster, more reliable access to the materials they need.

A COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

Beyond serving customers, ProWorx is dedicated to enriching the community it calls home.

“Partnering with our vendor Aquascape, we were proud to donate and construct a beautiful water feature for the Outdoor Classroom at East Elementary School,” said Yearwood.

The installation enhances hands-on learning and encourages students to engage with nature — a project the ProWorx team describes as a highlight of their young company’s journey.

Find ProWorx online at www.proworxal.com or visit 4110 Alabama Highway 157, Cullman, AL 35058.

a time when supply

Brothers Concrete Supply

Brothers Concrete Supply, a trusted, family owned ready mix concrete supplier, was founded in 2022 by Carlton Yearwood and his sons Declan and Tyler Yearwood, and Joseph Cone. The fully licensed and insured business brings an impressive 100-plus years of experience in residential and commercial construction.

ProWorx is the building supply division of the company, and specializes in:

• Concrete supplies

• Masonry supplies

• Hardscaping materials

• Landscaping materials

• Erosion control

• Stormwater drainage

• Gravel and sand

• Natural stone

• Mulch

• Soil and compost

• Irrigation

• Contractor tools

• Gardening tools

• Grills, fireplaces and fire pits

• Water features

Find ProWorx on Facebook at Facebook/ProWorx.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 14TH

9th Annual Hanceville Irish Festival

Downtown Hanceville | 9:00 AM

This festival is a celebration of Hanceville's Irish history. Enjoy music, dancing, food and crafts from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in downtown Hanceville. Hosted by Hanceville Friends of the Festival. Hope to see you there!

MARCH 21ST

Smith Lake Park Community Yard Sale

Smith Lake Park | 7:00 AM

Happening from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Come on out and shop the great deals that our community will be bringing out to the park. OR come on down early and bring all your unneeded items to sell to the community. Only $10 per site.

MARCH 21ST

Cullman County Master Gardeners Native Azalea and Wildflower Sale

Cullman County Fairgrounds | 8:00 AM

We will have plants available for sale and free educational programs for adults and children. We will be focused on providing plants for pollinators. The sale will run from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in Buildings 2 and 3 at the fairgrounds.

MARCH 26TH

Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Gala

Stone Bridge Farms | 6:00 PM

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating leadership, community and progress. Set in a vibrant "Disco Jungle" atmosphere, this signature event will reflect on a year of growth while honoring the people and businesses that continue to move Cullman forward. Get tickets at https://tinyurl.com/yyu2d54n.

MARCH 28TH

Sportsman Lake Park Spring Yard Sale

Sportsman Lake Park | 7:00 AM

Come out to Sportsman Lake Park for this annual event, held from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission to the park is free. This is a rain or shine event!

MARCH 28TH

Annual

Charity

Polar Plunge for Cullman Caring for Kids

JG's Campen Life RV Campground | 1:00 PM

Take the plunge for a good cause by supporting Cullman Caring for Kids. Contest winners and prizes with refreshments. $10 registration fee. Sponsor form due by March 14. No donations are due until the day of the event. All registration fees and sponsorship donations go to the Cullman Caring for Kids. Get more info at jgscampenlife.com.