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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Letter from the Editor Summer tends to be the season for family vacations, weekend getaways, reunions, and for those of us with kids—making the most of the more relaxed schedules. Some summers are filled with big trips and non-stop activities, but honestly, it’s often the simpler ones that stick with us the most. Some of my favorite summer memories growing up were from the weekends we spent at our family lakehouse. We didn’t travel a lot when I was a kid— maybe because of my brother’s packed baseball schedule or the fact that my family is huge—but almost every weekend, we found ourselves at the family lake cabin surrounded by cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. The cabin itself was nothing fancy, but the fun we had there made it feel like the best place in the world. We’d spend our days swimming, boating, playing volleyball and croquet, going on walks, and reading under the big tree in the yard. Nights were for watching the stars, playing charades, roasting marshmallows, and retelling our favorite family stories around the fire—each one met with laughter as hearty as if it were the first time we’d heard it. With so many of us, there often weren’t enough beds, so some of us kids happily camped out in tents.I always volunteered. I always chose the tent. I loved drifting off under a ceiling of stars and the sounds of the outdoors. Those weekends were simple, but they’ve stuck with me all these years. As I raise my own children, I hope I’ve passed along a piece of that magic—creating summer moments that one day they’ll look back on with the same warmth and nostalgia. This is our Summer Explore issue, and we’re sharing ideas for weekend getaways and ways to cool off—whether you’re planning something big or just looking to enjoy the season close to home.
July 2025 PUBLISHER
Nolan Williams | nolan.williams@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Allison Swan, Lauren Powers C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R
Janie Jones
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @ J O H N S O N C O U N T YC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/JOHNSONCOUNTY
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
inside the issue JU LY 2 0 2 5 | EX P LO R E
34 28
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Featured
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22 28 34 8
22 On the Cover
Where the Bay Meets Bliss
Discover Luxury and Family-Focused Relaxation at Loews Coronado Bay Resort
The Butterfly Pods
Weekender
Visit Council Grove
Slow Rise
Small-batch sourdough doughnuts coming to Overland Park
The Butterfly Pods
Where Off-Grid Living Meets Luxurious Sustainability
Photography: Michael Robinson
Departments 6
Lifestyle Letter
10
City Scene
12
Business Monthly
14
Travel Journal TRAVEL
22
Road Trip TRAVEL
28
Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E
32
Realty Report REAL ESTATE
34
Outdoor Adventure LIFE + CULTURE
40
Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE
the Style approach Certified New York Stylist Danielle Huppe
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J U LY 2 0 2 5
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1—7: The Big Slick celebrity hosts and their celebrity guests visited patients and families at Children’s Mercy on Saturday morning, May 31. Many of them say it’s their favorite part of the weekend. The weekend also included a celebrity softball game at Kauffman Stadium and ended with the Big Slick Show at The Sprint Center. This year’s event raised $4,530,012 in which every dollar goes to Children’s Mercy for pediatric cancer.
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C I T Y SC E N E
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Callyn’s Course for Hope is the annual signature golf tournament for Braden’s Hope for Childhood Cancer. The tournament started in honor of Hope Hero Callyn, a 2X childhood cancer survivor. While inspired by her journey, the event supports all children battling cancer by funding critical research. Proceeds benefit groundbreaking projects both locally and nationally, driving real progress in the fight against childhood cancer. It’s a powerful day on the green, uniting our community to drive HOPE forward for kids who need it most. For more information, visit www.bradenshope.org.
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JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y
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WHERE THE BAY MEETS BLISS
DISCOVER LUXURY AND FAMILY-FOCUSED RELAXATION AT LOEWS CORONADO BAY RESORT ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
Perched gracefully on a private peninsula, surrounded by the waters of the San Diego Bay, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers more than a vacation — it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a world where coastal serenity meets refined comfort. Just minutes from the heart of downtown San Diego and the charming village of Coronado, the resort strikes a harmonious balance between easy elegance and meaningful connection.
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L
From the moment you step into one of the resort’s 440 thoughtfully appointed guest rooms and suites, you’re welcomed by the coastal charm of soft textures, ocean-inspired palettes, and modern amenities. Spacious bathrooms—some with deep soaking bathtubs—invite you to unwind, while private balconies offer panoramic views that evolve with every visit. Whether you’re overlooking the downtown skyline, the Loews Marina, or the resort’s lush gardens and pools, each room presents a new angle of paradise. For those seeking ultimate privacy and residential-style living, the resort’s eight exclusive Waterfront Villas are a destination unto themselves. Nestled just above the bay’s edge and set apart from the main property, these villas are designed to feel like private sanctuaries, complete with generous living spaces and direct, unobstructed water views. Ideal for romantic escapes, special celebrations, or multi-generational stays, the Villas redefine what it means to “stay on the water.” What truly distinguishes Loews Coronado Bay Resort is its ability to offer curated luxury alongside approachable, heartfelt hospitality. The resort’s team is known for going the extra mile—from greeting returning guests by name to remembering your favorite glass of wine at dinner. Whether celebrating a special occasion with a surprise amenity or creating custom family-friendly experiences, the personal touches here are genuine and unforgettable. Guests enjoy in the abundance of on-site activities, including swimming, ping pong, cornhole, and a lively pool deck perfect for soaking in the Southern California sun. During the
“At Loews Coronado Bay Resort, families aren’t just welcomed— they’re celebrated.” summer months, complimentary pickleball courts and the Loews at the Strand beach service—complete with lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels, and sand toys—make it easy to enjoy Coronado’s pristine shores. And for those looking to explore the island, a complimentary shuttle to Coronado Village offers a seamless way to enjoy local boutiques, restaurants, and historic sites. CONTINUED >
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L
At Loews Coronado Bay Resort, families aren’t just welcomed— they’re celebrated. With the Loews Loves Families program, every detail is designed to make traveling with little ones more joyful and effortless. Parents of babies and toddlers can take advantage of Hello Bello bath and bedtime kits, while Little Spoon purees are available through in-room dining and select resort restaurants. Children will love the Loews Little Legend program, a fun and engaging activity series where kids can collect stamps while kite flying, swimming, and making s’mores under the stars. Complete the adventures over one stay or several, and young guests will be crowned a Loews Little Legend, receiving a special prize and memories to last a lifetime. Even four-legged family members get the royal treatment. As a pet-friendly resort, Loews Coronado Bay makes sure your furry companions feel at home, with access to scenic gardens, the marina lawn, and nearby Silver Strand State Beach. Upon arrival, pets receive exclusive amenities, including gourmet treats crafted by the chef, bowls, a collar tag, and more— because pets deserve pampering, too. No stay is complete without indulging in the flavors of Southern California, and Crown Landing, the resort’s signature restaurant. Helmed by Executive Chef Ana Rosales, the menu celebrates land and sea through sustainable partnerships with local purveyors like Catalina Offshore Products. Highlights include local catch of the day, rich seafood linguine, and a silky Coronado clam chowder spiked with jalapeño and bacon. Chef Rosales infuses the menu with the soul of her Mexican heritage, creating a culinary experience that is both comforting and elevated.
Cays Lounge, with its fire pit–lined terrace overlooking the marina and downtown skyline, is a favorite for evening cocktails and relaxed bites. For casual fare, La Cantina offers fresh, south-of-the-border flavors poolside, while Silver Strand Exchange keeps guests fueled with graband-go options for beach days and excursions. At Sea Spa + Fitness, guests will discover one of the premier wellness retreats in San Diego. From CBD-infused massages and rejuvenating facials to side-by-side treatments for parents and children, the spa offers something for every traveler. One of the few resort spas in the region to feature a Watsu pool, Sea Spa is designed to restore body and spirit. Complimentary yoga, stretching, sound healing, and spin classes round out a wellness-forward experience that can be tailored to any level of activity. With its own private marina, the resort is a natural playground for water lovers. Guests can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and sailboats right from the dock—or hop on a bike and explore the scenic Silver Strand Bike Path, a coastal trail bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and San Diego Bay on the other. CONTINUED >
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And for those visiting for business or group retreats, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers versatile meeting spaces and scenic venues that seamlessly transition from day to night. From sunset sails off the marina to group pickleball tournaments and al fresco cocktail receptions, the resort offers countless ways to connect. What makes Loews Coronado Bay Resort truly unforgettable is its one-of-a-kind location. Nestled on a secluded stretch of coastline with panoramic views of the bay, city, and Coronado Bridge, the resort feels worlds away
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L
from everyday life—yet it's just minutes from the vibrant energy of downtown San Diego. Whether you're watching the sun rise over the water from your balcony, dining under the stars with the skyline as your backdrop, or simply breathing in the salty breeze, every moment here is filled with possibility. At Loews Coronado Bay Resort, luxury isn’t just about what you see—it’s about how you feel. And from the first welcome to the last look back at the bay, that feeling is unforgettable. For more information visit loewshotels.com/ coronado-bay-resort
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Visit Council Grove A WEEKEND GETAWAY WHERE HISTORY AND NATURE CONVERGE
Nestled in the heart of the Flint Hills, Council Grove is a charming town that offers more than just a place to relax but offers a journey back in time. A weekend in Council Grove is not just an escape from the everyday but an immersion into the stories, landscapes, and traditions that have shaped the American frontier. Council Grove’s name itself is a nod to its historical roots. In 1825, under the shade of what is now known as the Council Oak, U.S. commissioners and Osage chiefs signed a treaty granting safe passage along the Santa Fe Trail. Today, the town proudly showcases over 25 nationally recognized historic sites that transport visitors to the era of westward expansion. Highlights include the Last Chance Store, a rustic stone building where travelers stocked up on supplies before venturing further west, and the Seth Hays House, home of Council Grove’s first permanent white settler. The Kaw Mission State Historic Site offers insight into the area's Native American and settler histories. For those eager to dive deeper, a self-guided historic walking tour—complete with maps available at local shops—lets you explore these preserved landmarks at your own pace.
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R OA D T R IP | TRAVEL
Council Grove doesn’t just preserve history—it lives it. Locals embrace their heritage with community events like Washunga Days, which features an intertribal powwow hosted by the Kaw Nation, live music at the scenic Neosho Riverwalk Amphitheater, and a vibrant car show and vendor fair. The town’s architecture tells its own story, with brick buildings, wooden storefronts, and 19th-century charm lining the historic downtown. You’ll find modern life seamlessly woven into this historical fabric through locally-owned boutiques and eateries housed in restored structures. A stop at Hays House 1857 Restaurant & Tavern, the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi, offers both a hearty meal and a taste of frontier legacy. Set amid one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems in the world, Council Grove is a haven for nature lovers. Just minutes from downtown, Council Grove Lake and Council Grove City Lake provide opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. With eight boat ramps, designated swimming areas, and scenic campgrounds, these lakes attract both adventure-seekers and those in search of quiet reflection. For land-based exploration, the Flint Hills Trail—the longest rail-trail in Kansas— runs through Council Grove and provides spectacular views of prairie grasses and wildlife. The Pioneer Nature Trail and the Neosho Riverwalk offer shorter, more leisurely routes, while Allegawaho Heritage Memorial Park honors the region’s Indigenous roots through interpretive trails and cultural markers. Accommodations in Council Grove are as rich in character as the town itself. The Cottage House Hotel, a beautifully preserved inn in the heart of downtown, offers a warm welcome and period furnishings that echo the town’s 19th-century elegance. For a more rustic retreat, lakeside cabins and campgrounds offer the sounds of nature and star-filled skies.
“You’ll find modern life seamlessly woven into this historical fabric through locallyowned boutiques and eateries housed in restored structures.” CONTINUED >
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“From weekends like Girls Getaway in the Grove to the cultural richness of Washunga Days, Council Grove’s events reflect its enduring community spirit and commitment to honoring both the past and present.”
Many lodgings are family-run and locally owned, offering not just a place to sleep but a personalized introduction to the town’s culture and hospitality. Food in Council Grove is more than fuel—it’s an experience. At Trail Days Café & Museum, guests dine on dishes inspired by 19th-century recipes inside a historic stone home. Saddlerock Café serves up comforting breakfasts and lunches beloved by locals, while Riverbank Brewing, founded by five community-minded friends, offers handcrafted beers and a friendly gathering space. Every weekend brings something new in Council Grove. Second Saturdays are filled with live music, open shops, and community events. During the holidays, Candlelight Charm transforms downtown into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and handcrafted gifts. From weekends like Girls Getaway in the Grove to the cultural richness of Washunga Days, Council Grove’s events reflect its enduring community spirit and commitment to honoring both the past and present. It’s rare to find a destination that offers scenic beauty, a rich cultural tapestry, and warm Midwestern hospitality all in one. Whether you’re tracing the Santa Fe Trail, paddling across lake waters, or simply enjoying a pint at a local eatery, a weekend here is a unique getaway.
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JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y
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SLOW
RISE 28
C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA DUNKEL
Slow Rise is winning hearts and taste buds with its small-batch sourdough doughnuts that are as thoughtful as they are delicious. Based in Lawrence, Slow Rise was founded by Jessica Dunkel, a food scientist.
CONTINUED >
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y
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“I've always worked in food, but on the science side as a food scientist, not a baker--but I guess baking is also science,” says Dunkel. “Baking started out as a hobby, but over time, I became a little obsessed with doughnuts. I just kept coming back to them. There’s something about them that is very tricky to get right, but they are also really fun to make. “On New Year’s 2022, a friend gave me a sourdough starter, and instead of learning how to make sourdough bread like everyone else, I dove straight into sourdough doughnuts without any clue what I was doing. From there, things kind of took on a life of their own. My husband, Jeff, and our three boys encouraged me to start selling
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them, so we signed up for the Lawrence Farmers Market and the rest is history.” Her first batch of sourdough doughnuts sold out quickly, and from that moment on, Slow Rise started gaining a loyal following. The doughnuts themselves are unlike anything else in the region. “Our dough goes through a 72-hour fermentation process, which gives it that soft, slightly chewy texture and a hint of tanginess. We usually skip the glazes and coat our doughnuts in sugar instead. Our fillings are never too overwhelmingly sweet. We want to highlight the layers of texture and flavor for our customers to experience with every bite.”
“FROM THE BEGINNING, PEOPLE HAVE SHOWN UP FOR US IN SUCH A BIG WAY.” The menu is ever-changing, reflecting what’s in season and what local ingredients are available. “It’s hard to say which flavors are the most popular since our flavors rotate often. We like to focus on local and seasonal ingredients, and those tend to sell out fast, like strawberry rhubarb, country peach, and our sweet corn and elote fillings during corn season, which were big hits last year. Pandan coconut is one of our more unique flavors and a consistent crowd favorite. We also make a savory everything doughnut filled with whipped cream cheese, chives and roasted garlic. When I first brought up the idea of a savory
doughnut, my husband thought I was out of my mind, but the response totally surprised us in the best way. Our customers have adventurous taste buds and we love their enthusiasm to try whatever fun flavors we come up with.” This fall, Slow Rise will take the next step with the opening of its first storefront location in Overland Park. While there’s no official grand opening date just yet, the team is aiming for early fall. “I never had a big plan when we started and never dreamed of opening a brick and mortar, but we kept hitting these moments where opportunities popped up, and it felt right to follow them. In 2023, I took the
leap and left my full-time job to give Slow Rise my full attention. Now here we are getting ready to open our very first brick and mortar. It’s still surreal and exciting. “We owe so much of this to our community. From the beginning, people have shown up for us in such a big way. We have an incredibly loyal following, and over half of our customers are repeat customers, which is still kind of mind-blowing and something we’re really grateful for.” Slow Rise will be located at 11228 West 135th Street in Overland Park. For more information on their grand opening, visit slowrise.co.
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realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N J O H N S O N C O U N T Y
NEIGHBORHOOD
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
DOM
BDRMS
B AT H S
Nottingham Forest South
$875,000
$905,000
103%
4
4
5.5
Southmoor
$949,950
$910,000
96%
22
4
3.5
Turnberry
$895,000
$915,000
102%
1
4
3.5
Deer Creek
$950,000
$916,500
96%
7
5
4.5
Lionsgate by the Green
$945,000
$940,000
99%
7
7
6.5
Mills Farm
$1,055,000
$960,000
91%
287
6
6
Fonticello Gardens
$999,000
$965,000
96%
75
4
4
Nottingham Estates
$975,000
$975,000
100%
2
4
3.5
Wilshire Hills
$999,165
$999,165
100%
0
4
5
Century Farms
$1,015,000
$1,017,160
100%
0
4
4.5
Nottingham - St. Andrews
$1,085,000
$1,085,000
100%
4
4
5.5
Woods at Colton Lake
$1,180,000
$1,180,000
100%
6
4
4.5
Estates of GlenEagles
$1,274,950
$1,274,950
100%
0
4
4.5
Prairie Village
$1,399,000
$1,424,000
102%
0
5
4.5
Prairie Village
$1,438,700
$1,435,000
99%
59
5
4.5
Wakefield Estates
$1,500,000
$1,450,000
97%
5
5
4.5
Prairie Village
$1,400,000
$1,457,459
104%
0
5
4.5
Mission Ranch
$1,469,003
$1,469,003
100%
0
5
6.5
Prairie Village
$1,465,000
$1,475,000
101%
6
5
5.5
Mills Farm
$1,499,999
$1,499,999
100%
1
5
5.5
This data is a sampling of sold properties from March 2025. Source: IRES MLS system.
THE SPRING MARKET IS HEATING UP!
As your Kansas City Real Estate Experts - We Want to Keep You Informed. Check out our latest report based off of the highest 20 sales in Overland Park and Prairie Village from the past 30 days. Are you curious how much your home would sell for today? We’re providing complimentary market reports for all recipients of this magazine! Text or email us your address. We’ll run the report and get it back to you! 913.302.6258 or 816.507.5062 thereddoorgroupkc@gmail.com
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R EA LT Y R E P ORT | REAL ESTAT E
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WHERE OFF- GRID LIVING MEETS LUXURIOUS SUSTAINABILITY
The Butterf ly Pods ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
Michael Robinson Photography
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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | LIF E + CU LT U RE
Michael Robinson Photography
“
“ We c re at e d t h e But t e r f l y Po d s b e c a u s e we wa nt e d t o bu i l d a p l ac e w h e re p e o p le c ou l d t r u l y s low d ow n .” Located just one hour south, nestled among towering oaks and wildflowers, something quietly revolutionary is unfolding in Linn County, Kansas. It’s called the Butterfly Pods, and while it may look like a serene lakeside retreat on the surface, it’s also a cutting-edge prototype for sustainable luxury living. A place where guests can unplug without sacrificing comfort, and reconnect with nature while treading lightly on it. Born from the vision of a couple seeking a deeper connection with the land and each other, the Butterfly Pods were imagined not just as a getaway, but as a statement. Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, founders Hein and Michelle e Roux have called Prairie Village home for the past decade. Having grown up surrounded by oceans and mountains, they longed to create a retreat that would reconnect their family, especially their kids, with nature. What began as a personal escape soon became something they wanted to share. “We created the Butterfly Pods because we wanted to build a place where people could truly slow down,” they shared. “We dreamed of something luxurious, but in a thoughtful, eco-conscious way.” That dream, sketched by hand and brought to life with care and intention, has become a destination unlike any other in the Midwest. The term off-grid luxury might sound like an oxymoron, but at the Butterfly Pods, it’s a living, breathing reality. Every detail, from the woodfired hot tubs to the triple-glazed windows, is a masterclass in balance—pairing nature-powered systems with five-star amenities. Solar panels generate electricity, with a backup gas generator
if needed. Rain and lake water is collected and filtered for use. Heating and cooling are handled passively through architectural design and aided by energy-efficient systems like mini-splits and ERVs (energy recovery ventilators). The result? A climate-controlled, aesthetically stunning retreat with no need for traditional utilities. “We wanted the pods to feel like a boutique hotel, but one that could operate entirely off-grid,” they explained. “Soft linens, sculptural lighting, smart home systems—it’s all here. You just don’t see the wires.” The pods were designed by Hein himself, who took a modular approach using PASSIVHAUS principles, a standard for ultra-low energy design and construction. There’s no concrete in sight; instead, the structures rest on helical piles that minimize land disruption and protect against flooding. The combination of cedar rainscreen cladding and profiled metal sheeting isn't just modern and chic—it’s wrapped over continuous insulation following the “Perfect Wall” method for optimal energy efficiency. Inside, guests are greeted with panoramic views, rich textures, and purposeful quiet. Wraparound decks extend the living space into the landscape, and thoughtful design choices— from curated books to locally sourced furniture— make the space feel both intimate and elevated. And the name? The pods, viewed from the side, resemble a butterfly mid-flight—a nod to transformation, beauty, and the wild things that flutter through the meadows outside. At the Butterfly Pods, sustainability isn’t hidden behind the scenes— it’s part of the experience.
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Guests are invited to engage with systems like solar output, water usage, and heating efficiency through the integrated smart home setup. A composting initiative even connects the kitchen to a soon-to-be-completed greenhouse, encouraging visitors to contribute food scraps that will one day nourish fresh-grown produce on-site. “It’s all about fostering a mindset of conscious living,” the couple says. “We want guests to feel inspired not just by the design, but by the way everything functions so harmoniously.” The Butterfly Pods attract everyone from design lovers and sustainability advocates to couples seeking a romantic escape and families unplugging for the weekend. With a semi-private lake, paddleboards, kayaks, firepits, a wood-fired hot tub and even a seasonal pool, it’s a place where no one misses their screen time. And though many guests choose to stay put— soaking up the quiet, the stars, and the solitude— the surrounding area offers charming local farms, antique shops, and scenic drives that round out the rural escape. Retreats of all kinds are becoming common here—bookclubs, songwriting sessions, women’s circles, even family reunions. “There’s something about this place that makes you want to slow down and be present,” one guest reflected. “It’s restorative in a way that sneaks up on you.”
The journey to bring the Butterfly Pods to life hasn’t been without its obstacles. Building an off-grid luxury resort with no outside funding, in a remote location, using experimental systems? Not for the faint of heart. “We self-funded the project and spent time troubleshooting systems, refining processes, and just figuring it all out,” the founders admit. “It was a real learning experience. But now, it runs like a dream.” That hard-won ease is evident in the guest experience. The team behind Butterfly Pods has managed to make a complex operation feel simple and welcoming. Expansion is on the horizon, but with intention. More pods in new locations. Creative retreats and workshops. And a deepening commitment to sustainability and education around low-impact living. Because the Butterfly Pods isn’t just a place to stay. It’s a place to awaken to the land, to yourself, and to what’s possible when we stop settling for convenience and start building with purpose. As one guest put it, “It’s not just a vacation. It’s a reset.” And frankly? The planet could use a few more of those. To learn more and book your stay, visit https://www.instagram.com/podhopping/ www.podhopping.com
Michael Robinson Photography
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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | LIF E + CU LT U RE
Michael Robinson Photography
Michael Robinson Photography
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JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y
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DRI NKS UP Crafting Cocktails with Fresh Garden Ingredients
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
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H AP PY H OU R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE
YOUR COMFORT IS OUR BUISNESS This sangria emphasizes fresh garden herbs and the sweetness of seasonal berries. Ingredients: • 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha) • ½ cup brandy or rum • ½ cup elderflower liqueur • 1 cup sparkling water • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced • ½ cup fresh raspberries • ½ cup fresh blueberries • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional) • 1 lime, thinly sliced
EN HER D R A
B
G
Instructions: In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.
SUMMER HEAT IS HERE—AND SO ARE YOUR SAVINGS At Envirotech Heating and Cooling, we’re helping homeowners beat the heat with expert maintenance, FREE estimates, and up to $1,400 in system rebates—but only through September 30th! Whether it’s keeping your current system running strong or replacing it with a high-efficiency upgrade, now is the time to act.
RY S A
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&
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Free Estimates | Professional AC Maintenance Limited-Time Rebates Through Sept. 30 Trusted Local Technicians www.envirotechks.com 913-268-6700 Venvirotechks | BEnvirotechKS 11003 W 59th Ter., Shawnee, KS 66203
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ROS E
UIT FR
Y GRAP R E A M
This cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit, the sweetness of pear, and the distinct notes of rosemary, all brought together with a bubbly finish. Ingredients: • 2 oz Gin (or Vodka) • • • • •
1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice) 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice 1 sprig of Rosemary Sparkling water
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice Instructions:
PE
Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled.
AR FIZZ
MINT E M LI
Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose. Ingredients: • 10 fresh mint leaves • 1 lime, cut into wedges • 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste) • 2 ounces white rum • 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent) • Club soda or sparkling water • Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional) Instructions: Muddle:
RO 42
SE MO
H AP PY H OU R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE
O T JI
Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.
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