Memorial, TX September 2024

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

THE ART OF AESTHETICS

FOOD + BEVERAGE

HOUSTON’S MOST STYLISH RESTAURANTS

TRAVEL

RELAXATION & WELLNESS IN SEDONA

SEPTEMBER 2024

VISIONARY DESIGN, EXCEPTIONAL BEAUTY

Built for sophisticated comfort, inspired by classicism. Soaring windows and high ceilings frame lakeside views, giving each residence a spacious scale.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands Sales Office | 9950 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 1350 | The Woodlands, TX 77380 832 838 9131 | theresidencesatthewoodlandslifestyle.com

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands are a proposed development in The Woodlands, Texas that does not yet exist. This is not an offer to sell, or solicitation of offers to buy condominium units in states where such offer of solicitation cannot be made. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands are not owned, developed or sold by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). Lakefront South Condos, LLC, the Developer of the project, has an agreement with Ritz-Carlton to use The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein. We are in compliance with Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968. We have not, and will not, either directly or indirectly, discriminate against you or any other prospective purchaser on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin. © Copyright 2024. Equal Housing Opportunity

Restrictions for New York Residents: LAKEFRONT SOUTH CONDOS, LLC, IS NOT LOCATED IN OR A RESIDENT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. THE OFFERING PRESENTED IN THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS (I) NEITHER MADE IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK NOR MADE TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; AND (II) NOT DIRECTED TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY, OR ON BEHALF OF, LAKEFRONT SOUTH CONDOS, LLC OR ANYONE ACTING WITH THE WOODLANDS LAND DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.’S KNOWLEDGE. NO OFFERING OR PURCHASE OR SALE OF PROPERTY IN THE RITZ-CARLTON RESIDENCES, THE WOODLANDS SHALL OCCUR AS A RESULT OF THE OFFERING DISPLAYED IN THIS ADVERTISEMENT, UNLESS AND UNTIL ALL REGISTRATION AND FILING REQUIREMENTS UNDER THE MARTIN ACT AND THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S REGULATIONS ARE COMPLIED WITH; A WRITTEN EXEMPTION IS OBTAINED PURSUANT TO AN APPLICATION IS GRANTED PURSUANT TO AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH COOPERATIVE POLICY STATEMENTS #1 OR #7; OR A “NO-ACTION” REQUEST IS GRANTED.

WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED OR QUALIFIED THIS OFFERING.

Exclusive project broker is Real Estate Associates of Houston, LLC, doing business as “Douglas Elliman,” whose principal place of business and post office address is 2001 Kirby Drive, Suite 600, Houston, Texas 77019.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands are a proposed condominium project located in The Woodlands, Texas. The project is currently being developed but is not yet complete. Visual depictions of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent actual units, amenities or facilities within the project and should not be relied upon in deciding to purchase or lease an interest therein. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands are not owned, developed or sold by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). Lakefront South Condos, LLC, the Developer of the project, has an agreement with Ritz-Carlton to use The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein. The termination of any such agreement may require the removal of The Ritz-Carlton marks and prohibit its use in the future by the project.

Residence 2A Living Room

Fall Into Style

I’m so excited to share with you our Annual Style and Design Issue! This edition is particularly special, as we've combined a few of our favorite themes: beauty and fashion, along with stunning interior designs. It's a celebration of all things stylish, and we can't wait for you to dive in.

Our creative team has been hard at work bringing together a diverse range of content that showcases the latest trends and timeless classics. Whether you're interested in ‘upping’ your image (The Art of Aesthetics) or you’re someone who loves beautiful spaces at home ( Leading A New Generation, Custom Built Legacy, Raising the Bar ), there's something here for everyone. We've also explored the world of showstopper fragrances (Signature Scents) and compiled them together in a stunning gift guide which will prompt you to try something new as we head into Fall.

But that's not all! We're also pulling the curtain back for you to take a peek into the hottest trending restaurants in Houston, perfect for food lovers looking for their next best culinary experience ( If You Eat One Thing, Making An Entrance). And if you're in the mood for a getaway, we've got you covered with an incredible travel destination that promises to inspire your next adventure ( Mountain Magic).

As you browse through the pages of this issue, we hope you find inspiration in the stories, designs, and tips we've curated just for you. It’s all about celebrating the art of living beautifully, whether it’s through fashion, home decor, or exploring new experiences.

Thank you for being a part of the Memorial Lifestyle community and for supporting our local business owners. Your feedback is invaluable to me. Feel free to call me at (832) 655-4670 or email me at Suzanne.Schakett@citylifestyle.com.  Also don’t forget to follow us for more inspiration on IG @memoriallifestyle.

To Living Your Best Life!

PUBLISHER

September 2024 Visit our Instagram

Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kayla Bokemeyer | kayla.bokemeyer@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Laura SanchezQuan

laura.sanchezquan@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Savannah Schakett

INTERN

Viviana De la Rosa

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Diane Cowen

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lauren Holub Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Learn

Neurotoxins // Facial Filler // Laser Resurfacing

PDO Thread Lift // Weight Loss // Skin Care // Hydrafacials

Ultherapy // Chemical Peels // IV Hydration // Emsculpt/Emsella

Raising the Bar

Connie

The Art of Aesthetics

Pura

SEPTEMBER 2024

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Want to be seen in the magazine?

1: Jackie Heston, Sarah Murchison, Addy Ayala and Blakeley Cranfield at Sophie grand opening party. 2: Shelby Forbert, Fariha Ahmed and Allie Akhtar at the Sophie grand opening party. 3: Evan Nicholas & Alyson Weaver Nicholas, Sveta Darnell, Nicole Katz at Texas Children’s Duncan NRI cocktail reception. 4: Dr. Huda Zoghbi, Scott & Soraya McClelland at Texas Children’s Duncan NRI cocktail reception and program. 5: Carlia Helm, Kele Helm at CoolxDad Real-Time Brunch. 6: Lacee Jacobs-Barnett & Kevin Barnett at CoolxDad Real-Time Brunch. 7: Lindsay Yates & Brian Ching at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Visionaries of the Year gala.
COURTESY PHOTO
DARCIE ROBERTS
PHOTO BY MICHAEL ANTHONY
PHOTO BY MICHAEL ANTHONY
WILLIAM ISSAC
DARCIE ROBERTS
WILLIAM ISSAC

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

MetroNational collects 10,000 juice boxes, raises $3,000 for Kids Meals

MetroNational and Memorial City collected over 10,000 juice boxes for Kids' Meals Summer Juice Box Challenge. The campaign supported Kids' Meals mission to provide nourishing meals for underserved children.

In addition, MetroNational and Memorial City hosted its inaugural Flavor Tour at Memorial City. From welcome drinks and bites at Hotel ZaZa's Tipping Point to delectable entrees at Perry's Steakhouse and 024 Grille to dessert at Ciros, the event raised $3,000 for Kids' Meals.

Photography courtesy of MetroNational

Discovery Green announces The TUNNEL Installation

This fall, Discovery Green will unveil The TUNNEL by Big Art, a large-scale, interactive art installation that takes visitors through a cosmic adventure.

A series of 12-foot-tall structures are arranged to form a 100-footlong tunnel of magical light and sound. Parkgoers serve as “pilots” and use an interactive device to manipulate the array, creating an infinite number of patterns of light and sound guiding their path through the structures. Over 150 LED bars are pixel-mapped to create a vortex of light, pulling visitors through the travel path.

RIDE Wine Releases California Cabernet

Ride & Ridden, an award-winning exclusively cabernet portfolio from California, released its fourth SKU a California Cabernet. Ride & Ridden is distinctive for its focus on Cabernet appellation wines, blending California origins with Texas heritage and ethos. Created in collaboration with David Green and renowned rodeo artist Steve Wrubel, Ride & Ridden embodies the power and grace of the American West. Ride & Ridden's wine is available at H.E.B. and Central Market.

Photography courtesy of Big Art
Photography courtesy of Ride & Ridden

Queen Bee Distilling Launches with New Allergy-Friendly Vodka

Queen Bee Distilling is an ultra-premium luxury spirit brand founded by Catharine Faulconer and Kim Martin, two Houston women with East Texas roots and a friendship that dates over 45 years. Queen Bee is proud to release its inaugural expression, Osmia Vodka. This sophisticated vodka is distilled from raw, chemical-free honey obtained from nature’s true queen–the Queen Bee, and organic non-GMO sugar cane. Osmia Vodka is  available at select retailers in Houston and online. QueenBeeDistilling.com

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Bridal Couture

Vivienne Atelier vivienneatelier.com | 713.965.6683

Ivory Bridal ivorybridalhouston.com | 713.550.1622

Belle Ame Bridal belleamebridalhouston.com | 832.463.0486

Winnie Couture Bridal winniecouture.com | 713.782.9316

Malton Couture maltoncouture.com | 346.353.1762

Architects

Masa Studio Architects masastudio.net | 713.592.6700

Newberry Architecture newberryarchitecture.com | 713.862.7992

StudioMET Architects studiomet.com | 713.255.0008

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Colby Architect Design colbydesign.net | 713.524.1497

Cusimano Architect cusimano-architect.com | 832.465.0419

HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE

SIGNATURE SCENTS

The best sniff-worthy colognes to buy in Houston right now.

We’ve all run the gauntlet while passing through the fragrance section at any major department store where spritz-happy salespeople are proffering their best-smelling scents. But with the new fall season on the horizon, it might be time to stop and smell the roses. Whether you want the man in your life to smell like a turquoise blue ocean, a rain-drenched forest, or a rugged and chiseled stone, there are colognes to fit every vibe.

Sure, a scent will morph slightly with each person’s chemistry, but there are many universal crowd-pleasers to consider. We’ve sniffed out the best of the bunch—an olfactory-pleasing list of colognes and where to find them in Houston.

MANREADY MERCANTILE

The team at Manready Mercantile puts a lot of care into their line of fragrances. The bottles are from France, the ink on the packaging is from Germany, and the oils are custom-made and blended here in Houston. The line of four fragrances, including Anvil, Lore, Cade, and Slate, has notes of leather, cashmere, dark oak, whiskey, and tobacco. Although they are billed as unisex fragrances, their heavy-hitting notes have a masculine edge.

KATARI

Known as the “Indiana Jones of Beauty,” Katari’s whole line of beauty items is from the Mediterranean and offers simple craftsmanship to mix elements in their purest form. Their latest scent, Nui Sicilienne, is 100% perfume oil without alcohol, dyes, or other additives. The notes include bergamot and musk with cedar, patchouli, and vanilla. The packaging and bottle of Nui Sicilienne, available online, are gorgeous and will add to the whole gift-giving experience.

Katari's gorgeous looking and smelling Nui Sicilienne is a great for every man. Photo by Katari

Manready Mercantile has a line of custom-blended fragrances made right here in Houston. Photo courtesy of Manready Mercantile

JACK HENRY

Do you know a guy who is stressed or anxious? Jack Henry’s Balance can help. The scent uses fragrances that have been scientifically proven to help reduce stress and anxiety, create positivity, and even help promote better sleep. Available at St. Bernard in River Oaks District, Balanced also promises to last more than eight hours with just two squirts.

Available at St. Bernard in River Oaks District, Balance promises to help ease anxiety and reduce stress. Photo courtesy of Jack Henry

INITIO PARFUMS PRIVÉS

Men will love the tobacco, vanilla, rum, and cinnamon combination in Initio’s cologne, Side Effect.  Available at Neiman Marcus in the Galleria, the cologne is a heady mix of warm, familiar notes but not overpowering. The bottle is lovely; its matte black finish will look great on any dressing table or vanity.

Side Effect from Initio Parfumes Prives has notes of vanilla, rum, and cinnamon. Photo by Initio

EAST WEST BOTTLERS

Hailing from Austin, Texas, Moonshine Reserve Cologne will have the man in your life smelling like woodsy spices, freshcracked pepper, tobacco, and Appalachian gin. Available at Paris Texas Apparel Company, the cologne comes in a handsome leather pouch and is aged, making a more refined fragrance.

Moonshine Reserve, available at Paris Texas Apparel Co., has notes of Appalachian gin and aged leather. Photo courtesy of East West Bottlers

Custom Built Legacy

This family-owned business expertly turning dreams into reality

Maria Frank’s father, Dave Steffan Sr., started Cabinets & Designs in 1972 selling Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry. Maria’s involvement in the business started in 2007 and she soon realized the importance of continuing the legacy her father built. “To this day, prior clients will reach out to us, looking for help with a small issue, such as a new hinge,” Maria shares, “they’ll tell me we did their kitchen 40 years ago and it’s just as beautiful as the day it was installed–it fills me with pride!”

The exceedingly high level of expertise at Cabinets & Designs spans across all areas of the home. From kitchens and baths to closets and laundry rooms, as well as craft rooms and home offices. For any area of a home that

ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
PHOTOGRAPHY
COURTESY OF CABINETS & DESIGNS
Photo Credit: French Blue
For custom-created spaces like a mudroom, wine room, or pet-parlor, Cabinets & Designs collaborates with customers to create practical design solutions to meet every need.

needs custom cabinetry–the experts at Cabinets & Designs understand how cabinetry can truly transform a space.

With 52 years of experience, Cabinets & Designs’ expert designers, Tom Steffan and Maggie Grants, have seen it all. No matter the complexity or the scale of the project–they can tackle it. “They offer professional guidance to produce the look you have always dreamed of whether it is contemporary, transitional, or traditional,” Maria says.

The showroom of Cabinets & Designs features a beautiful array of cabinetry styles, textures, wood species, and colors, to help clients visualize their dreams. From there, experienced designers will guide each step of the process of turning vision into reality.

The innovative features and versatile designs of modern cabinetry are the central elements in creating a room that is beautiful as well as highly functional. For custom-created spaces like a mudroom, wine room, or pet-parlor, Cabinets & Designs collaborates with clients to create practical design solutions to meet every need. Having completed projects all over the nation, Cabinets & Designs always provides exceptional service. “A satisfied client is our greatest asset!” Maria says.

cabinetsanddesigns.net

RAISING THE BAR

CONNIE LEFEVRE TURNED A PASSION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN INTO THREE HUGELY SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES. SHE SHARES INSIGHT INTO WHAT MAKES HER STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD.

Connie LeFevre, an established interior designer with over 40 years of experience, is the only Houston interior designer to own her own studio, furniture and décor showroom, and fabric and wallpaper supply, all in one convenient location.

The Design House showroom offers curated furniture, lighting, art, and accessories, while Fabric House boasts a 9000-square-foot showroom with a vast selection of fabrics and custom options. We sat down with Connie to find out more about her businesses and her dedication to helping customers transform their spaces.

Connie LeFevre, owner of Design House and Fabric House in Houston Design Center. Photo by Al Torres Photography
“Our showrooms are fun and exciting experiences for shoppers with edited, carefully selected, and displayed products from a long history of acquiring sources.” – Connie LeFevre

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS. IT ACTUALLY SEEMS LIKE THERE ARE THREE.

As a designer, I opened Design House as a design studio. After searching for more unique products for my clients at various markets, and even when just traveling, I ended up with a warehouse full of treasures. A few designers learned about this private stash and asked me to see what I might have for them to use for their projects. That was when I decided to open a showroom, and the Design House showroom became an additional business. Fast forward about ten years and Fabric House was born, so there are three businesses now.

HOW ARE THE OFFERINGS AT DESIGN HOUSE AND FABRIC HOUSE DIFFERENT?

The Design House showroom offers curated furniture, lighting, art, and accessories available from the floor or by custom order. Design House Studio is an award-winning design group with 40 years of experience and projects from coast to coast. It works on residential and commercial projects, remodeling, and new construction.

Fabric House's expansive offers a wide selection of fabrics, trims, wallpaper, custom bedding, pillows, upholstery, window coverings, drapery hardware, and motorization. Both showrooms and the design studio are in The Houston Design Center.

Interior design by Connie LeFevre

WHAT MAKES YOUR DESIGN APPROACH OR SHOWROOMS UNIQUE COMPARED TO OTHERS IN THE INDUSTRY?

Our service, attention to detail, and passion for the business are apparent to visitors. We have actually had shoppers tell us they come in periodically for inspiration. Since we have been doing this for so many years, we are highly qualified and experienced in design, sourcing, procurement, logistics, and installation for both retail and the trade. Plus, we offer in-house fabrication and custom capabilities. Our showrooms are fun and exciting experiences for shoppers with edited, carefully selected, and displayed products from a long history of acquiring sources. This provides our clients and customers with solutions for projects that often they have not even imagined. Our showrooms and design studio offer an unparalleled experience that is worth the time and investment.

HOW DOES SOMEONE VISIT OR LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE SHOWROOMS OR DESIGN SERVICES?

We welcome both the trade and public to visit Design House Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 5:00, and Saturday, 10:00 – 5:00. Fabric House is open Monday - Friday, 9:00 –5:00. Customers are invited to come in and learn more about the differences in the quality of furnishings and art, advancements in technology in lighting, fabrics and wallcoverings (even LED wallcovering), artisanal and sustainable selections, and imagine paper made from pineapple and banana waste!  Also, please call our studio if we can help with space planning, lighting planning, FF&E selections, and elevations or if you want someone to review your plans before construction. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve the most exciting and functional personal space.

Fabric House showroom
Design House showroom
Photo Credit: Silambam Houston; Mercury Chamber Orchestra; Main Street Theater; Kinetic Ensemble; Opera in the Heights

PURA COMBINES THE BEST MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY WITH AESTHETIC EXPERTISE TO ENHANCE CLIENT’S NATURAL BEAUTY.

The Art of Aesthetics

Photo by Isak Kim

Cheryl Haseeb, DNP, owner of Pura Medical Aesthetics and Aesthetic Nation Houston, didn't have a typical journey into aesthetics. Growing up a tall, skinny girl with features that didn't fit into society's idea of beauty caused Cheryl to question her worth for years. Starting at 25, she spent thousands on surgical and nonsurgical treatments, only to discover that her pursuit of conforming to society's ideology of beauty was an endless quest, so she turned her search inward. She realized that aesthetics isn't merely about fillers and Botox; instead, it's about highlighting the natural beauty within each person.

In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, she founded Pura Medical Aesthetics and despite the challenges of masks and the uncomfortable probability of failure, Pura experienced phenomenal growth. What began as a modest one-room clinic quickly expanded into a thriving six-room facility, leading to Pura opening a second location in Memorial.

Driven by a genuine desire to uplift others, Cheryl's professional journey has shaped a mission focused on inclusivity and compassion. She is committed to creating an inviting experience for everyone, where each individual feels valued and empowered. "At Pura, we try not only to enhance external appearance but also to foster inner healing and confidence," she says.

Photo

THE GOLDEN RATIO

At Pura, the importance of the golden ratio aligns with the universal appeal of beauty, harmony, and balance. The golden ratio is considered aesthetically pleasing and has been used in aesthetics, art, architecture, and design for centuries. By incorporating the golden ratio into their client's treatment plans, the team at Pura enhances the beauty and natural proportions that are aesthetically pleasing to the human eye. Pura aims to regenerate, refresh, and enhance their client's natural beauty through nonsurgical treatments such as neurotoxins, fillers, biostimulators, laser resurfacing, and skin tightening procedures, never straying away from the Golden Ratio of aesthetics.

THE PURA DIFFERENCE

Pura's approach to medical aesthetics is different from that of other providers, especially in Texas, where the industry can be dangerously unregulated. Pura stands out by only employing licensed medical providers for all medical procedures, including injections. This commitment is fundamental to Cheryl's philosophy and distinguishes her practice by ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and promising the best outcomes.

The philosophy is also used at Cheryl's training facility, Aesthetic Nation Institute, which was recently

Photo by Isak Kim

awarded a Center of Excellence by Merz Aesthetics and is currently one of Houston's few accredited training institutes.

Cheryl's dedication to setting the highest standard of excellence in aesthetic medicine and training providers who meet professional and safety standards while providing care to patients is what truly sets her business apart from the others. Only those with a nursing license or higher are eligible to enroll in Aesthetic Nation Institute courses, reinforcing professional standards and safety to ensure clients' highest level of care.

NONSURGICAL PROCEDURES AT PURA

Pura's most popular services are nonsurgical procedures such as bio-stimulator injectables, including Radiesse and Sculptra, PDO Lifting Threads, and neurotoxins. Cheryl is known as "Houston's Queen of PDO Threads," and Pura has dedicated its full-service medical aesthetic clinic to offering procedures that ensure the best results and client satisfaction.

The staff at Pura focuses on regenerative aesthetics by addressing the cause of aging rather than simply treating the symptoms. "Aging occurs on all five layers of the skin and as providers, we must address each of those layers to truly give our clients the most natural, sustainable results," says Cheryl.

PURA'S MEMORIAL LOCATION

From 2020 to 2023, Pura Medical Aesthetics grew to a multi-million dollar company. Sales increased by 60% from 2021 to 2023, and this year promises a continued growth trajectory. Opening another aesthetic location in Memorial allows the company to meet the growing client demand while expanding its brand presence and providing the highest quality of service to a broader community.

thepuralife.com

Cheryl Haseeb, founder and owner of Pura Medical Aesthetics and Aesthetic Nation Houston.
Location: The Marigold Club

Architect and professor Donna Kacmar considers both the indoor and outdoor environment.

Leading a New Generation

Big windows offer a view to the backyard in this Hunters Trail home, designed by architect Donna Kacmar, principal of Architect Works. Photo by Benjamin Hill

Architect Donna Kacmar’s career has been about getting things just right, and convincing others to do so, too.

As either an architect or teacher – in the architecture schools at Texas A&M (her alma mater), Rice and now the University of Houston, where she’s a tenured full professor – her goal has been to emphasize structures that are efficient and rightsized, using materials that are healthy both for the home’s occupants and for those making and installing the materials.

A native of upstate New York, Donna spent her early years in the Midwest before her family moved to Texas. She opened her Architect Works design studio in Houston years ago, and now her husband, Jonathan Myers, is her work partner, too.

In September, Donna will be inducted into the Houston Design District’s Leaders in Design program.

In her work at UH teaching design studio and a seminar course about dwelling, she was also the founder of the school’s Materials Research Collaborative, where students study various building materials.

“I taught a lot about materials, energy and the body of carbon in building materials …. I tried to really connect the academic institution to the professional world,” Donna said. “There are a lot more materials now that are low VOC (volatile organic compounds). That’s good for our indoor air quality.”

Her own home is smallish, too, initially built at 1,400-square-feet and later expanded by 1,000 square feet with a 3-story addition.

Most of the work that she and her husband do is residential, but they’ve also designed a hair salon, small retail spaces and libraries for the City of Houston, those with architect, Natalye Appel.

“In the design studio, we focus on contextual relationships and how people get to buildings. We try to open our eyes to see things that are there that we weren’t paying attention to and look at how spaces connect,” she said.

With two of her architecture school classmates, Donna Kacmar created a trio of townhouses to serve as the first homes they owned. Photo by Jon Henning.
Architect Donna Kacmar designed new outdoor entertaining space for this home. Photo by Benjamin Hill

OUR LOCATIONS

1900 N Loop West #670, Houston, TX 77018

8301 Katy Fwy #101, Houston, TX 77024 970 Campbell Road, Houston, TX 77024 (September 2024)

ORTHOPEDIC SPINE TREATMENTS

• Microdiscectomy

• Artificial Disc Replacement

• Intracept for Chronic Low Back Pain

• Cervical & Lumbar Fusions

• Sacroiliac Fusions

• Kyphoplasty

• Laminectomy & MIS Decompression

• Endoscopic Decompressions

• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

• Spinal Deformities, Spinal Trauma & more EXTREMITY & SPORTS RELATED TREATMENTS

• Total/Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

• Revision Shoulder & Hip/Knee Arthroplasty

• Shoulder, Hip & Knee Arthroscopy

• Shoulder Instability & Rotator Cuff Injuries

• Meniscus Injury & Meniscal Transplantation

• Femoroacetabular Impingement

• Ulnar Collateral Ligament (Tommy John)

• Orthobiologics: Platelet-Rich Plasma

• Fracture Care, Cartilage Restoration & Tendon Ruptures

• Knee Osteotomies, Ligament injuries & Reconstruction

Leonard Kibuule, MD FAAOS
Clifton Hancock, MD FAAOS
Varan Haghshenas, MD
William Hadnott, MD

If You Eat One Thing

Keep the freshness of summer going with this tomato salad from famed steakhouse Doris Metropolitan.

A refreshing appetizer is the perfect way to start a meal, and this tomato salad delivers on looks, innovation, and flavor. It's not overly heavy and isn't bulked up with carbs, leaving plenty of room for the main course. Chef Hai Avnaim shares the secrets of what makes this dish irresistible. dorismetropolitan.com

The Tomatoes

Not one, but four different preparations of the fleshy fruit make this course sing. Brulé Roma tomatoes, dehydrated tomato skins, marinated baby heirloom tomatoes, and raw cherry tomatoes are each important to the taste and texture of the dish.

The Egg

It is rare to see an egg on a tomato salad, but chef Avnaim says the sous vide egg adds a creaminess to the appetizer.

The Mix-ins

Chef Avnaim adds feta for its tart flavor, olives for their saltiness, and herbs to brighten the dish.

The Spices

A dash of black garlic powder and sumac round out the flavor profile of this popular salad.

We supply top quality rentals for a myriad of special occasions. We have serviced weddings, conferences, fundraising galas, corporate, and private events by providing rentals such as tents, shades, and dining necessities. We work closely with topnotch caterers, designers, and producers to ensure the best event possible.

Devil's Bridge is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona. Photo by Goimarac Photography

MOUNTAIN MAGIC

Sedona offers a combination of leisure, wellness, and outdoor activities for visitors to go from feeling rushed to relaxed.

Sedona is known for its stunning red rock views, penchant for wellness, and as a hub of outdoor activities. With nearly 300 sunny days per year and comfortable morning and evening temperatures, there isn't a wrong time to visit Red Rock Country. September through early December and March through May are the high seasons for the southwestern city. For Houstonians, a short three-hour flight to Flagstaff or Phoenix and a two-hour drive is all it takes to glimpse the famed red rock landscapes.

For most, a long weekend is the perfect amount of time in Sedona, so we’ve curated an excellent three-day itinerary to help plan your next visit.

CONTINUED >

DAY ONE

Nestled in the foothills of Thunder Mountain in West Sedona, The Wilde Resort and Spa has everything to make the most of your stay. The hotel is conveniently located near several attractions and hiking and biking trailheads. Take advantage of the boutique hotel's welcome margarita, offering just the right spice to start the afternoon.

Located a few minutes from the resort, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a great place to spend a few hours. The shopping district is brimming with galleries, clothing stores, and restaurants. Wander the cobblestone paths and through its decorative archways to look at sculptures, art, jewelry, and more. Don't forget to try artisanal ice cream or scratch-made desserts from one of its many restaurants.

When you've finished shopping, drive back to The Wilde Resort and Spa for a late afternoon dip in the pool. The Wilde Pool Bar offers tasty cocktails and an all-day food menu crafted by award-winning chef Mercer Mohr.

DAY TWO

Plan to wake up early to make the most of the cool mornings and beat the crowds to the area's most-visited attractions. Although there are more than 200 hikes for every activity level, those looking for an intermediate challenge will enjoy Devil's Bridge. The 2.9-mile moderate hike to the longest natural sandstone arch in the area is an excellent place for photos. Be prepared to wait in line for the perfect shot, though; this hike is a popular one.

The morning will be complete with a visit to the Church of the Holy Cross. There is no hiking required for this visit, but it is an awe-inspiring church built into the red rocks of Coconino National Forest. After a busy morning, keep the spiritual vibes going by taking part in Sedona's wellness activities, including crystal shops, healers, meditation, massages, or yoga. The Wilde Haven Spa offers a full-service menu of relaxing options, including facials, massages, outdoor hot tubs, and more.

After a relaxing afternoon, it is time to fuel up for the evening's activities. Rascal, the on-property restaurant at The Wilde, offers nightly specials and is known for its large portions and delicious menu offerings. After a busy

day, the ahi tuna nachos, meatloaf with mushroom gravy, and blueberry cobbler are the cure-all. Be prepared to linger; the restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and a friendly staff.

Take in the evening's sunset on the Red Rock Scenic Byway, a 17-mile drive on State Road 179 that offers many historical, cultural, and natural sites. When the sun is below the horizon, head back to The Wilde Resort and Spa to finish off the evening with s'mores.

DAY THREE

Sleep late to enjoy the luxurious accommodations at The Wilde. Walk around the property in the crisp morning air before settling in for Rascal's brunch-for-lunch menu.

After brunch, do a little shopping at Hillside Sedona Shopping Center, where everything from kitschy souvenirs to serious art and trendy fashions is available. The open-air shopping district is also home to several restaurants and bars, making it easy to find a drink or snack.

Once shopping is complete, drop off your bounty at The Wilde and relax at the pool or hot tub before the last hike of the trip. A sunset hike on the last full day in Sedona seems appropriate, and Cathedral Rock Trail has gorgeous views from its red rock spires. With vistas unmatched anywhere else, watch the sun put on a beautiful show as it dips below the skyline.

Circular stone maze at The Wilde Resort and Spa.
Visitors travel to Sedona for wellness activities of all kinds.
Ahi Tuna Nachos are one of the signature dishes at on-property restaurant, Rascal.
Sedona is known for its gorgeous panoramic views. Photo by Scott Vetters

MAKING AN ENTRANCE

These new Houston restaurants are examples of where to dine in style.

The Houston dining scene is more than just a delicious plate of food and tasty cocktails. A restaurant’s ambiance sets the tone for a memorable evening. We sat down with the teams behind three of Houston’s newest and most dazzling restaurants to get the scoop on how they create a mood that makes diners want to linger long after the last course.

Turner's Cut. Photo by Brian Kennedy

TURNER’S CUT

STYLE

Designed to be “the most opulent steakhouse in Houston,” Turner’s Cut’s design team chose a style similar to that of New York’s Gilded Age. The team wanted to transport diners to a New York City steakhouse from the late 1800s and used eclectic and exquisite design elements throughout the restaurant, from the dining room to the bathrooms.

VIBE

According to the design team, Turner’s Cut’s vibe can be summed up in one word: luxurious. From Venetian glass brick to sparkling chandeliers, every detail of Berg’s latest concept aims to evoke a feeling of magnificence.

MATERIALS

The opulent world of Turner’s Cut was created from some of the finest design materials, including handcrafted wallpaper and Venetian glass brick. The bar is crafted from gold-cut crystal class, with a wall of gold Venetian glass bricks behind it. The dining room boasts white leather seats with pearlized finishes, while the enclosed patio features handcrafted floral wallpaper.

DESIGN TEAM

Benjamin Berg enlisted Gail McCleese of the design firm Sensitori. McCleese and Berg have also collaborated on other Berg Hospitality Concepts, including Soy Cowboy in Arlington and Annabelle Brasserie.

Turner's Cut. Photo by Brian Kennedy

AZUMI

STYLE

Inspired by Tokyo’s cosmopolitan nightlife, Azumi’s interior emanates discreet luxury. A light color palette, elevated textures, and natural materials provide warmth to the 6,500-square-foot main dining room, creating a vibrant space that feels both modern and reminiscent of traditional Japanese dining.

VIBE

Stylish, sectioned seating and moody, ambient lighting set the tone for an intimate and buzzy environment at Azumi. The restaurant’s culture is refined and lively, and the seamless flow of the restaurant’s interior contributes to the social nature of the space. For instance, a set of 10-foot sliding glass doors can be fully opened to connect the main dining room, cocktail bar – which offers 360-degree seating – and

intimate chef’s table room to the covered outdoor terraces. Azumi also features a custom-built sake barrel display room, visible outside and inside the restaurant, and serves as a natural conversation starter.

MATERIALS

A nod to the location’s River Oaks neighborhood, white oak flows throughout the restaurant in both the overhead beams and floors. The floors, a blend of white oak and oversized gray ceramic tiles, resemble traditional gray tiles often used in Japan. In addition, Japanese calligraphy-inspired artwork by Leo Shallat and traditional silk Shoji screens adorn the space.

DESIGN TEAM

World-renowned Patrick Sutton and his team designed Azumi’s interiors.

Azumi. Photo by Brian Kennedy

POTENTE

STYLE

The style of Potente’s private dining room is upscale and modern. It is meant to be a monochromatic venue that can be versatile depending on the event.

VIBE

The room was designed with a moody elegance meant to blend seamlessly with the main eating space of the restaurant.

MATERIALS

Focal points include custom-made upholstery, stunning Yellow Goat Design chandeliers, and a floor-to-ceiling glass-walled wine room.

DESIGN TEAM

Houston-based interior design firm Gin Design Group designed the private dining room. Gin Design group is a hospitality-focused design firm known for their work on several of Houston’s top restaurants.

Potente private dining room.
Photo by Leonid Furmansky

SEPTEMBER 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 6TH

The Houston Ballet presents The Little Mermaid

Wortham Theater Center | 7:00 PM

Houston Ballet is excited to open their 2024-2025 season with the Company premiere of John Neumeier’s coveted production of The Little Mermaid. This beautifully haunting interpretation of Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 fairytale follows the troubled mermaid heroine on a journey between the divergent worlds of land and sea—one utterly complex, the other magnificently serene.

SEPTEMBER 10TH

Dear Even Hansen

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts | 7:00 PM

The winner of 6 Tony Awards®, the Grammy® Award and the Olivier Award for Best Musical, Dear Evan Hansen is the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it. Dear Evan Hansen has struck a remarkable chord with audiences and critics everywhere.

SEPTEMBER 13TH

Butler Studio Showcase by Houston Grand Opera

Houston Grand Opera | 7:00 PM

HGO audiences will get their first glimpse of the Sarah and Ernest Butler Houston Grand Opera Studio class of 2025 at this beloved annual event. The emerging artists training with the program will present a series of staged, costumed excerpts from a variety of operatic works, selected to showcase their unique talents

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