Harco, MD March 2026

HOME + DESIGN GROUNDED BY SERVICE, GUIDED BY COMMUNITY

DESIGN WITH INTENTION, COLLABORATION, AND CARE

LIFESTYLE BUILT AROUND CONNECTION

The Home & Design Issue

March arrives with a sense of momentum. The light shifts and there’s an unmistakable feeling of forward motion toward spring, toward possibility, and toward the small changes that make everyday life feel more intentional. This month is about renewal, but also about building thoughtfully on what already works.

In this Home & Design issue of Harco City Lifestyle, we explore what it means to design life well, at home, in community, and through the spaces we choose to invest in. You’ll step inside a local home improvement company that has grown on a foundation of trust, experience, and collaboration, now elevated by a new showroom that brings ideas, materials, and expertise together under one roof. It’s a story about confidence in the process, and the power of seeing possibilities clearly before construction ever begins.

We also highlight a longtime local architect whose work has quietly shaped the region for decades. His approach blends creativity with responsibility, proving that lasting impact comes from listening closely, respecting place, and designing with longevity in mind. The result is architecture that serves not just today’s needs, but future ones as well.

Additionally, we’ve spotlighted a Harford County native who has redefined what it means to work in real estate with integrity. His commitment to service has extended beyond the industry through ongoing philanthropic efforts, reinforcing a people-first philosophy that continues to shape his work and his vision for the future.

Community also takes center stage in a feature of one of Harford County’s most vibrant neighborhoods, where connection isn’t an afterthought--it’s the point. From daily amenities to shared traditions, this is a place where lifestyle is intentionally curated, neighbors know one another, and giving back is woven into everyday life. And because March is also about enjoying the moment, you’ll find inspiration for gathering around a seasonally-appropriate and locally-loved cocktail.

Together, these stories reflect a common thread: people who lead with care, invest with purpose, and believe that thoughtful choices, made locally, can have a lasting effect. As we move toward a new season, we hope this issue encourages you to reimagine what’s possible, right where you are.

Thank you for continuing to read, share, and support the stories that make Harford County feel connected and full of promise. We’re so glad to welcome March with you.

DAVE BURRIS, PUBLISHER @HARCOCITYLIFESTYLE

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Dave Burris | Dave.Burris@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Jennifer Waldera | jennifer.waldera@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kerry Dietz | kerry.dietz@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kerry Paradis Photography, Emma Knight, Paul Thompson, ADW: Architectural Design Works, Hello Harford, Latitude Seafood Co., Stone View Farm, Town of Bel Air

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Connect Pro Happy Hour Event at Fallston Barrel House; Jen, Terri, and Leon. 2: Networking: Daniel McGhee voted Harford County's Best Realtor, Avery Northwood from Northwood Digital Services, Dustin Dietz, owner of K&D Unique Design and Build. 3: Tiffanee & Co. Bakery Ribbon Cutting with Harford County Chamber of Commerce. 4: Rt 40 Business Associate Christmas Party at Bushmill Tavern. 5: Kabob Korner Ribbon Cutting with the Harford County Chamber of Commerce. 6: Bel Air Christmas Parade. 7: Swearing in of Kristien S. Foss as the newest member of the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners.

Explore Events and America 250 Celebrations with Hello Harford

Hello Harford, the county’s tourism marketing organization, was launched by the county government in April 2025 to attract visitors, support tourism-related businesses, and connect residents with everything Harford County has to offer. From festivals to outdoor adventures, there’s always something fun to do! Explore the event calendar, including America 250 celebrations, at  www.helloharford.com Follow Hello Harford on social media and stop by the Welcome Center at 220 S. Main Street in Bel Air. HelloHarford.com

Stop By Stone View Farm as Spring Nears

Visit this Darlington-based farm to interact with farm animals and participate in children’s recreational and educational activities, community gatherings, farm-to-table dinners, wildlife exploration, seasonal farm events, and wellness offerings. StoneViewFarm.com

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Take The Time to Look at Broad Creek Manor

Looking for the best place to help a loved one settle in with all of the confidence that a trained team will help them remain independent? Broad Creek Manor is the best destination to visit to talk with expert staff, learn about their caregiving, and experience the gorgeous views your family member could take in every day. BroadCreekAssistedLiving.com.

Photography by Kerry Dietz

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Thoughtfully Designed Living

CONNECTION, COMFORT, AND COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER AT BULLE ROCK.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY DIETZ

Jessica Calder, Assistant Community Manager, shared how thoughtful design and an active lifestyle shape daily life within one of Harford County’s most dynamic communities.

WHAT MAKES BULLE ROCK STAND OUT COMPARED TO OTHER PLANNED COMMUNITIES IN HARFORD COUNTY?

We are the only Lifestyle Community in Harford County. With a full-time Lifestyle Director, Rhiannon Blankenship, and Lifestyle Coordinator, Victoria Larkins, we have over 100 Club gatherings each month and host between 10 and 15 monthly events. There is something to do here for everyone, no matter what your interests are. If we don’t already have a club, you can start one, and there are sure to be several neighbors who are interested in the same things as you! For those who are avid golfers, how awesome is it to live next to the top-ranked daily fee course in Maryland? We also have on-site management staff. If a resident has a question about the Community Association, they will find either me or Chris Petrik, our General Manager, in our offices in the Residents’ Club.

THE COMMUNITY NAME TIES BACK TO THE THOROUGHBRED “BULLE ROCK,” THE FIRST RECORDED AMERICAN RACEHORSE WITH ENGLISH BLOODLINES. HOW DOES THAT HERITAGE INFLUENCE THE BRAND OR IDENTITY OF THE COMMUNITY?

As you drive through the Community, you’ll notice beautiful bronze horse monuments honoring that heritage. Each neighborhood in the Community is named for a racing facility, such as Emerald Downs, Kentucky Downs, Pimlico, and Churchill Downs. Our street names may sound funny to someone unfamiliar with horse racing history; we have Tim Tam Court, Majestic Prince Circle, Deputed Testamony Place, and my personal favorite, Tabasco Cat Court.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE LIFESTYLE THAT BULLE ROCK HAS DESIGNED TO OFFER ITS RESIDENTS?

Our motto is ‘Where Life Imitates Vacation.’ When you move to Bulle Rock, you can get rid of your lawn

equipment, throw away your shovel, and cancel your gym membership. Full-service landscaping and snow removal are two of the main benefits included in your monthly HOA fee. We handle your mowing, mulching, pruning, lawn treatments, and so much more. The time you save on yard work can be spent enjoying our fitness center, indoor pool, outdoor pool, sports courts, walking trails, and events.

WHAT KINDS OF PEOPLE ARE TYPICALLY DRAWN TO THE COMMUNITY, AND WHAT DO YOU THINK ATTRACTS THEM MOST?

We are in a great central location here in Havre de Grace. We’re located just a minute or two off I-95, so our residents can easily visit family in New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, and Virginia. We are also located close to Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) and Baltimore, where many of our residents work. Downtown Havre de Grace is charming and has so much to do for people of all ages. Our schools offer smaller class sizes and more individual attention for each student. Havre de Grace is not as busy as areas like Bel Air or Abingdon, but it is a quick drive to get to shopping, restaurants, and activities.

HOW DO THE HOMES AT BULLE ROCK REFLECT THE NEEDS OF TODAY’S HOMEOWNERS, WHETHER THEY’RE WORKING REMOTELY, DOWNSIZING, OR LOOKING FOR MULTIGENERATIONAL OPTIONS?

We’ve got something for everyone here. Whether you’re considering a new construction or are looking for an established resale home, we’ve got lots of options. Two-bedroom condominiums with a private garage and convenient elevator accessibility are available at the Overlook. Zero-entry villas with 2-car garages and beautiful single-family homes are available through Ward Communities. Or you can build a custom single-family home or villa of your dreams through Trademark Custom Homes. Resales in the community may offer next-gen floor plans and first-floor owner’s suites. Whatever it is that you are looking for, you’ll find it here in Bulle Rock.

“As you drive through the Community, you’ll notice beautiful bronze horse monuments honoring that heritage. Each neighborhood in the Community is named for a racing facility, such as Emerald Downs, Kentucky Downs, Pimlico, and Churchill Downs.”

“Our motto is ‘Where Life Imitates Vacation.’

When you move to Bulle Rock, you can get rid of your lawn equipment, throw away your shovel, and cancel your gym membership.”

HAVE YOU SEEN THE COMMUNITY EVOLVE IN RECENT YEARS— THROUGH AMENITIES, DEMOGRAPHICS, OR TRENDS—AND WHAT DO YOU ANTICIPATE FOR THE FUTURE?

Yes. Our demographic has been trending towards younger families in the last several years. There has been a misconception that Bulle Rock is exclusively a 55+ Community, but that is simply not the case. We offer amenities and activities for every age. Our Community is still growing, and we are constantly evaluating the needs and desires of our residents. We plan amenities studies so we can determine if we need to expand or add to our amenities in the future. We have a fully funded Reserve Study, so we can ensure we are keeping up with and maintaining our existing amenities so everyone can continue to enjoy them.

WHAT’S A MOMENT YOU’VE WITNESSED THAT REALLY CAPTURED THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY AT BULLE ROCK?

I’ve seen a lot in the thirteen years that I’ve worked here at Bulle Rock. The generosity of our residents never ceases to amaze me! Every year, around the holidays, we have multiple donation drives going at once. Toys for Tots, Casey Cares Pajamas, St. John’s Cupboard, HdG Elementary School Angel Tree, and a winter coat drive for our veterans are a few that come to mind. During this time, our Lifestyle Office is positively overflowing with donations. Our residents really have giving hearts and will step up to help anyone in need.

BULLE ROCK ENCOURAGES COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO LEARN MORE!  Stop by for a tour of the Residents’ Club--you’ll fall in love with all that the beautiful Community has to offer.

MORE RESOURCES: BULLEROCKCOMMUNITY.COM BULLEROCK.COM

Renovated

REAL ESTATE WITH Purpose IN Harford County

A people-first approach rooted in service, trust, and community

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY DIETZ

From the outside, real estate can look like a sales-driven profession, but for Daniel McGhee, a Harford County native, it’s always been about people first. Growing up with a father who spent more than four decades as a local broker, he initially resisted following the same path, worried the work might feel too transactional. It wasn’t until encouragement from his parents and a few successful deals under his belt that confidence replaced hesitation and a true calling began to take shape.

That foundation quickly turned into momentum. In his first year alone, he closed 120 deals, breaking records and setting the tone for a career rooted in gratitude, humility, and service. “I’m extremely honored when someone chooses me to help with the most important transaction of their life,” he says. “I take that responsibility personally, and I go to bat for my people.”

Living in Harford County his entire life has shaped both his approach and his priorities. He knows the area “like the back of his hand,” from Bel Air’s family-friendly neighborhoods to the county’s mix of rural charm, suburban convenience, and vibrant local businesses. That deep-rooted connection fuels his commitment to reputation and relationships. “One of my favorite parts of the job is meeting new people and making new friends,” he said. “I consider them all friends and virtually family.”

In addition, community service isn’t a professional obligation--it’s a personal mission. From supporting children and seniors in need to participating in overseas mission trips and disaster relief efforts, his goal is simple: leave the world better than he found it.

In an ever-shifting housing market, he brings patience, creativity, and clear communication, especially for first-time buyers navigating unfamiliar territory. He also helps clients think beyond price and square footage, guiding them toward homes that support balanced lifestyles without financial strain. Looking ahead, McGhee’s vision is growth with purpose. He has his sights set on expanding his team with like-minded agents who share a people-first philosophy and broadening the impact he can make across Harford County and beyond.

DESIGN WITH LASTING IMPACT

ARCHITECTURE GUIDED BY PURPOSE, PEOPLE, AND PLACE

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

For Harford County local Paul Thompson, architecture has always been rooted in curiosity, problem-solving, and people, long before it became a profession. His earliest passion was automobile design, but he learned quickly that only a small number of designers wind up shaping cars for a living. Everything shifted when, as a teenager, he discovered the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. That spark eventually led him in 1982 to knock on the door of a small architectural firm in Perry Hall after spotting a sign along Route 1. He secured an internship and returned whenever school breaks allowed, becoming immersed in the day-to-day realities of architecture. The architect

who mentored him played a pivotal role, offering guidance that extended beyond design and into the responsibilities of the profession itself. Just a year and a half into that experience, the mentor passed away.

Despite his father urging caution amid a recession, Thompson took a significant pay cut to join a mom-and-pop firm in Kingsville rather than pursue a position at a large firm. He recognized the opportunity as rare and committed fully, working long hours and navigating economic uncertainty with determination. Much of his early work was residential, and earning the trust of clients hesitant to place large, complex projects in the hands of a young architect required patience and persistence.

That foundation led to the founding of the now award-winning firm, ADW: Architectural Design Works. Over the decades since its inception, the firm has grown into a diverse, boutique architectural practice known for thoughtful solutions and long-term relationships. ADW’s portfolio spans estate homes, institutional buildings, and community-focused developments, including the county’s first mosque and a seven-story state office building completed during the Great Recession along with other projects well-known by locals.

Among the most meaningful projects was the Bob Hooper Hospice House, Harford County’s first. ADW donated more than $150,000 worth of time to support the project. Thompson describes the experience as deeply rewarding, both for the relationships formed and for the role the facility continues to play in the community. Since opening, it has remained fully occupied.

Over time, Thompson’s definition of good design has evolved, but its core remains the same: spaces should resonate emotionally before they are

analyzed technically. He believes great design creates a strong first impression, unfolds thoughtfully as people move through it, and leaves a lasting sense of connection.

Designing in Harford County requires a careful balance of creativity and compatibility. As a thoughtful and measured region, community context matters. His approach is layered and collaborative, beginning with essential needs and evolving through wants, budgets, and long-term functionality.

Now, after well over three decades, ADW remains intentionally structured. Thompson has kept staff employed through economic downturns by combining in-house talent with measured strategies and has focused on retention. “What’s particularly satisfying is that I have three senior staff members who have been with me for 25 years or more.”

Thompson has no plans to step away. His passion for architecture and commitment to community continue to drive the firm forward, ensuring that every project is approached with care, intention, and respect for the people it serves. “I don’t ever want to retire,” he said. “I see myself staying in this for 20 years or so.”

Diana

Todd

Chris

Shira

Jack

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY DIETZ

BUILT on TRUST

From inspiration to innovation all under one roof

When Katie Dascanio, President of Ward Home Improvements, looks back on the company’s expansion into renovations, the timing still stands out. In 2020, as much of the world slowed down, Ward leaned into a new direction, one that ultimately strengthened its connection to homeowners across Harford County.

“We have been a home builder for over 40 years, and we wanted to tap into a different market in 2020 when everything was shut down,” Dascanio said. “We expanded into home improvement.”

That shift allowed Ward to meet homeowners where they were. Many were spending more time at home, reassessing how their spaces functioned, and looking for trusted professionals to help them adapt. What emerged was a full-service home improvement division grounded in the same experience and craftsmanship that had defined Ward’s building business for decades.

Today, Ward Home Improvements offers a wide-ranging scope of services designed to support both interior and exterior transformations. “All exterior hardscape, landscape, siding, roofing, windows, doors, and interiors like kitchens, baths, flooring, moulding, trim, lighting, and more,” Dascanio said. “Everything except for outdoor pools.”

Ward approaches renovations as thoughtfully planned projects, designed, coordinated, and executed by an in-house team. It’s a model that emphasizes consistency, accountability, and ease for the homeowner.

For Lisa Bennett, Marketing & Design Coordinator, that approach begins with partnership. “I think when clients come in, we envision ourselves as being their partner in the project, and an extension of them,” Bennett said. From the first conversation, the team works to understand not just what a space could look like, but how it should feel and function.

Design decisions are made with intention and continuity. “We offer recommendations for colors, so there’s a flow within the entire updated space,” Bennett explained. Often, the process begins with one room and naturally expands. “Start with the kitchen, then look into other things like cabinetry or a wet bar, to help them envision their space.”

At the core of the company’s work is a straightforward philosophy. “We want to have fun, take care of customers, and make money, in that order,” Dascanio said. It’s a mindset shaped by decades of experience, and by an understanding that trust is earned, especially in an industry where homeowners can feel vulnerable. “It’s hard sometimes to trust contractors you don’t know,” she added. “With our 40 years of experience, we guide our customers to have trust and feel that the quality is there as well.”

That trust is reinforced by Ward’s deep local roots. “It’s a local company. Our core strength is in Harford County,” Bennett said. “Our name has been in the area for so long. We’re here for the community, and in terms of opening up the renovation side, we’re even more of a resource.”

“I think when clients come in, we envision ourselves as being their partner in the project, and an extension of them.”

One of the most defining features of Ward Home Improvements is its new design studio and showroom, created to simplify the renovation process and spark inspiration. “We have a studio. Most do not,” Dascanio said. “It’s a one-stop shop.” Rather than sending clients to multiple vendors, Ward brings materials, design expertise, and craftsmanship together under one roof.

“We have designers in-house, workers in-house, we’re not subbing out the work,” she explained. “It makes it so much easier for the client to come to one location and see it all together.”

The showroom itself is immersive and built to inspire. “You see vignettes of different parts of homes,” Bennett said. “People come and start to look around, and it gives them ideas.” From kitchens and mudrooms to wine rooms, offices, outdoor living spaces, and garage organization, the space is designed to feel actionable. “We’re happy to have that because we’ve shown a lot of unique things you can do in a home.”

Viewing widespread options often sparks new ideas. “Just seeing everything all together... you’re in a beautiful space which offers inspiration for what your space could look like as well,” Dascanio said. The showroom’s myriad designs frequently jog memories or uncover projects homeowners may not have initially considered or had forgotten about, rounding out their ideas for upgrades.

Technology plays a major role in helping clients visualize their renovations. “With all clients, we have tech to show 3D renderings,” Dascanio said. “Every single client gets that experience.” Bennett added, “They can feel like they’re actually in the space before it’s done.”

Once a project is underway, communication remains a priority. “We have a whiteboard in their home with everything that’s getting accomplished today and this week,” Dascanio explained. Alongside phone calls and group texts, the system keeps everyone aligned. “Whiteboards -- people love them,” Bennett said. “It’s right there, they can see the whole week and who is coming.”

“Our name has been in the area for so long. We’re here for the community, and in terms of opening up the renovation side, we’re even more of a resource.”

Community involvement is woven into the company’s identity. “We donate to several different charities within Harford County,” Dascanio said, supporting families, shelters, and recovery efforts after fires or floods. Sustainability also plays a role. “For every home that’s built, 100 trees are planted,” Bennett shared.

As trends evolve, from the return of wood tones to green palettes and wallpaper, Ward adapts while staying grounded in purpose. “The most important thing is functionality,” Dascanio said. “We ask: What’s not working in this space, and then what would you like for it to be?”

As Ward moves forward, more growth is the natural next step. The team has expanded steadily, and new services are on the horizon. But the final goal remains unchanged. “That [clients] are extremely happy that they chose us,” Dascanio said. “That’s the ultimate goal.”

polished pour

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA PHOTOGRAPHY

PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA

Latitude Seafood Co.’s Kevin Grubbs said this blushing cocktail is “one of our most popular signature cocktails -- the perfect balance of tart, subtle sweetness, and smooth tequila. It always has guests inquiring, ‘ooh, what’s that one?’ when the margarita passes by...” Stop into the restaurant or make this springtime-ready sip at home with these simple instructions that Latitude Seafood Co. shared with Harco City Lifestyle.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Codigo 1530 Tequila Blanco

• .5 oz Patron Citrónge Orange

• 1.5 oz House Made Sour [Lime, Lemon, Simple Syrup]

• .5 oz Desert Pear Flavoring

• Cayenne Sugar Rim

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients (except the cayenne sugar) to a cocktail shaker.

2. Shake the ingredients vigorously until combined.

3. Dip the rim of a cocktail glass into water or citrus juice, then the cayenne sugar mixture.

4. Pour the drink into the glass and serve.

Bookcase Styling your

Tips for an Organized and Aesthetic Display

ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS

A bookcase is often more than just a storage unit for books; it’s a focal point of a room that can enhance the overall decor and reflect personal style. Styling a bookcase can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to showcase your literary collection and curate a space that feels inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled bookcase.

Styling a bookcase is a creative process that combines practicality with aesthetics. By using these tips, you can transform an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish, engaging focal point that complements your home’s decor while showcasing your personality and interests.

Step 1

Strategically Place Books on the Bookcase While Incorporating Decorative Elements.

When placing books back on the shelves, think about the arrangement, vertical stacks are more traditional, horizontal stacks more modern, or both for more visual interest. Adding decorative elements such as picture frames, vases, or sculptural objects to break the monotony. Incorporating items with varying heights can create a dynamic arrangement. Use larger items like art pieces or baskets on lower shelves and smaller decorative objects higher up. Aim for a balanced look while avoiding perfect symmetry. This creates an organic flow, drawing the eye naturally across the shelf. Incorporate asymmetrical groupings for added interest, mixing textures, colors, and shapes.

Step 2

Use Color Wisely and Add Natural Elements.

Color plays a role in styling a bookcase. You can opt for a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look or introduce pops of color for a more energetic vibe. If your books are of various colors, pick a few colorful decorative pieces that complement or contrast them effectively. Integrating plants or natural elements can breathe life into your bookcase. Small potted plants can add color and texture.

Step 3

Create Zones and Add Personal Touches.

If your bookcase has multiple shelves, consider creating zones or themes for different sections. Infuse your personality into the bookcase through memorabilia, travel souvenirs, or personal artwork. These pieces add a storytelling dimension and make the space uniquely yours.

MARCH 1ST

Rock and Roll in Style

Fallston Barrel House, 2403 Belair Road, Fallston, MD 21047 | 2:00 pm

Get ready for the 4th Annual Rocking Roll for Recovery, a family-friendly afternoon celebrating community strength and support for recovery in Harford County. Enjoy live music, great food, raffle baskets, a photo booth, and 50/50 drawings while coming together to show that recovery is possible. Bring friends and family to this uplifting local event that combines fun, connection, and a cause. FallstonBarrelHouse.com

MARCH 6TH

CHEP's 2026 Casino Night

Evolved Catering and Events Center, 2315 Bel Air Road, Fallston, MD 21047 | 6:00 pm

Each year, CHEP, an organization dedicated to serving veterans and strengthening communities, hosts an unforgettable Casino Night Fundraiser filled with excitement, style, and purpose. Guests step into a Vegas-inspired atmosphere featuring professionally hosted Blackjack, Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Slot Machine tables, all while supporting programs that make a meaningful local impact. ChepInc.org

Monday, May 11 2026 th,