Nestled on the flanks of a wooded steep slope, this home embraces the beauty of nature while providing a comfortable, stylish living space. From exposed wooden beams to large windows that allow natural light to flood in, every element is carefully crafted to create a warm atmosphere.
“I remember the first sketch I saw, I think it brought me to tears, I was so stunned by it.
That you could put into this picture all the ideas that had been running through my mind all these years. The house was beyond my wildest expectations.”
Homeowner — Carolyn
6930 96th Ave SE
4 BD | 3.25 BA | 4,740 SF | SOLD FOR $3,280,000
6811 East Mercer Way
4 BD | 2.5 BA | 3,020 SF | SOLD FOR $2,560,000
3350 97th Ave SE
4 BD | 1.75 BA | 2,380 SF | SOLD FOR $2,370,000
Luxury Representation
“ Kelly is just the very, very best! She helped us sell our house in 4 days. Her knowledge of what is required is 100% spot on. No issue is too small or too big and she has a team that can handle it all. She is an expert negotiator and will make it happen for her clients. She is so personable and joyful that it rubs off on everyone involved. The consummate professional!!
- J.H., Mercer Island
Island Insight You
Parkwood Modern View
Stunner
9166 Parkwood Ridge Rd | $4,500,000
LA hip vibe meets Mercer Island. Brilliant, panoramic lake & mountain views.
Jaw-dropping Lake View
Modern
6822 96th Ave SE | $3,450,000
Sweeping lake views from this light-filled, 5 bedroom chic home.
Westside Private Waterfront
5229 82nd Ave SE | $3,595,000
Create your dream estate on this street-towater, ~ half-acre lot with private dock.
The Style Issue
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the September Style Issue of Mercer Island City Lifestyle! As summer fades into fall, we are excited to bring you a fabulous edition brimming with style inspirations to elevate your home, wardrobe, and adventures. This month, we delve into the heart of remodeling, interior design, fashion, and even a dash of safari chic!
Voices features the brilliant Jan Garner Schaefer of J Garner Homes. Jan shares her expertise and passion for creating spaces that are not just beautiful but truly reflective of those who inhabit them. Her hub for Interior Design ideation and products is a treasure trove for anyone looking to infuse their home with elegance and individuality.
We also celebrate the stylish transformation of Rich and Lori Dewey's Forever Home, brought to life by the innovative minds at Brandt Design Group and Gallagher Co. Construction. Their collaboration is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and craftsmanship.
In a special feature, guest writer Mark Elster, from AOME Architects, discusses the rarity of residential architects in today's market and offers insightful tips on finding the perfect architect for your project. His article is a must-read for anyone considering a home renovation or build.
Fashion aficionados will be delighted with Hip Zephyr owner Dana Smith’s forecast for fall fashion (think denim). Dana is a true style leader in women's fashion and apparel, and offers a curated selection that promises to refresh your wardrobe.
For those looking to add a touch of everyday elegance to their style, Carin Parcel shares her expert tips on incorporating jewelry into your daily look. Her advice will have you sparkling with confidence no matter the occasion.
Missy Claridge of Vons1000Spirits brings a touch of indulgence with her recipe for an espresso cocktail. This delicious drink is perfect for those crisp fall evenings when you need a little pick-me-up with a kick.
And last but certainly not least, Brenda El-Ghazzawy takes us on a journey with her tips on doing Safari in style! Travel advice is front and center after the recent travel shutdowns. Brenda is our expert partner!
This issue is all about embracing style in every aspect of life, from the spaces we inhabit to the clothes we wear and the adventures we embark on. We hope these stories inspire you to find your unique style and express it boldly.
Stay stylish!
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Laura Ohata, Carin Parcel, Mark Elster, Brenda El-Ghazzawy, Dana Smith
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
J Garner Photography, @A_Medley, Kara Mercer, Shana Novak, Laurie & Charles Kay, AOME Architects, Lisi Wolf, LUXXE Travel, Aegis Living
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Proverbs 3:5-6
HIP HIP HIP ZEPHYR
1: Boats and shoreside, getting ready for the City of Mercer Island Summer Celebration Fireworks 2: Mercer Island City Lifestyle was a proud sponsor of Summer Celebration and MICL partners! 3: City of Mercer Island Summer Celebration Annual Fireworks Show 4: Mercer Island Country Club celebrated at their Annual Summer Party with the MIMX band 5: Northwood student, Emerson, got his face painted from volunteer,Talie, at Summer Celebration 6: Chris, Mercer Island City Manager Jessi Bon and Sharon at Summer Celebration 7: Publisher Chris and our across the street Summer Celebration neighbor, Andrew Baklinski
8: Shiro Kashiba and MICL issue at the 2024 Japan Fair at the Meydenbauer Center 9: Dr. Lauren Hagel of Mercer Island Orthodontics working at the City Lifestyle booth! Thank you! 10: MI Beach Club and Mercerwood Shore Club march in the community favorite Summer Celebration Parade 11: Chris, restaurantors Ed Kashiba and Jason Farrish hanging loose at Summer Celebration 12: Soul Proprietors played at Mercerdale Park as part of “Mostly Music in the Park” 13: MI City Lifestyle is proud to be a sponsor for Mostly Music in the Park 14: Mark and Chelsea Harrington with Adam Cramer at Avant’s “Cruise the Loop”
Art on the Island -New Mercer Island Event
4 Days of Music, Art, Wine and Fun on Mercer Island! A consortium of Mercer Island businesses, organizations and artists have created a new event for the community, Art on the Island
Thursday 9/5 Mosiac MI Open Mic @ Aljoya 6:30 pm
Friday 9/6 First Friday Art Walk @ Town Center 5:00 - 8:00pm
Saturday 9/7 Art Uncorked @ Greta Hackett Park 3:00-7:00pm
Sunday 9/8 Mercer Island Farmers Market Live Music @ Mercerdale Park 10am-2pm
Mercer Island Dining Options Expanding
Mercer Island is eagerly awaiting the opening of three new dining
Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
and cocktail venues - all scheduled to open late summer or early fall. Cheers to building more community around the table!
Allister - New American Restaurant and Craft Cocktails 7650 SE 27th, Suite 100
Asa - Social Club 2690 76th SE #100th
The Crawlspace Gastro Pub - 3041 SE 78th Ave SE
Watch for more details in the October Food & Drink issue!
Scan to read more
Aegis Living Mercer Island Celebrates 5th Anniversary
Aegis Living Mercer Island celebrated five years of offering high-style assisted residences on July 25. The feeling is grand Northwest ski lodge— elegant yet cozy, the community seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. Residents enjoy fresh air in the courtyard, which features an enormous fountain and four-story fireplace. Luxstyle includes a fitness pool, sports den, state-of-the-art movie theater, open kitchen, gourmet meals in a Pendletonthemed dining room and nightcaps in the Sky Lounge. Congratulations!
Scan to read more
At Aegis Living, we see aging as a gift. Every second of it. Aegis offers support for all stages of senior care, including short-term stays for seniors when caregivers need a respite, memory care for residents with dementia, and transitional care to meet a resident’s changing needs. We’d love to meet you, answer your questions, and show you around.
Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
Photography by Aegis Living
TS Y L E DEFINED: A FOREVER
O EM
Mercer Island vista
"We've always been super focused on working on Mercer Island." Tom Gallagher
Imagine waking up every morning in a home that's tailored to your every need and desire, where every detail whispers "sanctuary". A place where the stress of the outside world melts away, and all that's left is serenity and tranquility. This was the dream that drove Rich and Lori Dewey to embark on a journey to transform their Mercer Island home into a stylish haven that reflected their personalities and lifestyle in their “Forever” home.
THE DREAM TEAM | THE POWER OF COMMUNITY AND TRUST IN COLLABORATION
You could see the recipe for success. The partnership was already in motion because Gallagher Company built the Dewey’s first home. Gallagher and Brandt Design are an active collaborative relationship.
Tom Gallagher says, "We built Rich and Lori's first home and when they bought this house which happens to be right
across the street from my house, they asked us to build the new home."
Gallagher Company, led by Tom and Jay Nygaard, epitomizes the advantages of working with friends who share a commitment to excellence and community values. "We've always been super focused on working on Mercer Island because it has such an advantage for our clients and for us as a company to be so much more efficient," says Tom.
Gallagher Company, known for its tightknit, collaborative culture, prides itself on hiring and retaining the best talent in the industry. This culture of excellence and teamwork was crucial in ensuring the success of the project.
"We are all about collaboration," says Robin Farrish of Gallagher Co.
This collaboration was instrumental in bringing their vision to life, demonstrating the immense benefits of working with friends and neighbors who share a common dedication to the community.
"We're a boutique architectural firm. Very site specific and client specific." Colin Brandt
Veined marble with a natural view backsplash
The architect, Colin Brandt of Brandt Design Group, is celebrated for his ability to transform clients' dreams into reality. His innovative approach and skill in ideation made him the perfect choice for this project.
Key to his team is Kate Miller, whose keen eye for style and detail added an extra layer of sophistication to the design. "We don't typically gravitate to cookie-cutter projects because we really want to get to know the client," says Kate.
"We had a name in the office for the project because Rich and Lori were so lovely to work with. Whenever we would sit down and look at design concepts, we'd refer to it as going to 'Deweyland'," says Kate.
This heartfelt reference reflects the deep connection and enthusiasm they had for the endeavor, and the Dewey’s on a personal level.
A COLLABORATIVE VISION
From the outset, the project was marked by a spirit of collaboration. Frequently meeting to discuss ideas, share insights, and align their visions. These meetings were not just about blueprints and timelines; they were about understanding the Deweys' lifestyle, their love for entertaining, and their desire to create a space that was both functional and stylish.
"The uniqueness of the lot was very attractive," says Rich Dewey, reflecting on the initial site selection process. "It's rare to capture this view." The couple's decision to purchase the lot was largely driven by its unique features and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
"We wanted to make it a home we could live in forever," says Rich and Lori. "Single-level living for us. Room
for visitors, kids, grandkids (if they have them) downstairs and a little family area for that purpose."
One of the standout features of the remodel is the stunning deck, built with sustainability in mind. "I'm going to come out for morning coffee, afternoon wine, and have some people over for barbecue," says Lori. "So when we downsized, that ruled out condominiums." The deck is a testament to the couple's desire to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living, perfect for entertaining and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
During the construction phase, the collaborative efforts continued. The Gallagher Company's team, led by Jay Nygaard, worked meticulously to bring the vision to life. Their expertise and attention to detail ensured that every aspect of the remodel was executed to the highest standards.
Jay adds, "We have a lot of resources around here, so it makes the construction aspect a little smoother.”
A STYLISH HOME REBORN
The result is a stunning transformation. Their new home features expansive, open spaces that highlight the natural beauty. The large windows provide unobstructed views of the lake and Mt. Rainier, creating a serene and picturesque backdrop for everyday life and special gatherings.
The Deweys' friends and family are in awe of the remodel, and the couple couldn't be happier with the outcome. Their home is a stylish sanctuary that perfectly suits their lifestyle and love for entertaining, truly earning the moniker of their "forever home."
Big pop powder room
ARTICLE BY MARK ELSOM, AOME
MANAGING PARTNER
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY AOME ARCHITECTS
FINDING YOUR IDEAL ARCHITECT
ARCHITECTS: MODERN-DAY WIZARDS OR MYTHICAL UNICORNS? EXPLORING THE PUBLIC'S FASCINATION AND THE REALITIES OF THE PROFESSION
Architects seem to occupy an enviable social position in our culture, residential architects even more so. What contributes to the public’s generally favorable view of the profession and is it a good thing?
The popular press and the broader media’s somewhat one-dimensional romanticized portrayal of architects certainly props up these positive opinions. Broad surveys across multiple studies indicate public perceptions of the profession are generally highly favorable. These surveys highlight an important factor that may go the furthest to explain the sustained high social status architects enjoy.
Hillside Estate Covered Terrace
Mark Elster, Managing Partner & Co-Founder AOME
To the average person, architects are almost as rare as unicorns, and the craft they practice takes on almost magical dimensions that borders on wizardry.
According to published data, in the United States, only a little over 3 in 10,000 of us are licensed architects. According to the American Institute of Architects, only about 25% of these design residences. Rare indeed. For many of us, this means we may go through our entire lives without ever meeting an architect, let alone have an opportunity to work with one. For comparison, there are roughly 760 times as many physicians and dentists that nearly all of us encounter regularly in some fashion. No wonder architects seem as mythical and rare as unicorns!
When we do think about architects at all, there is a tendency to find the whole enterprise kind of mysterious, even spooky. Not many of us are charged with using our imagination to hatch ideas for things as complex as whole buildings and then accurately describe how to build it in exhaustive detail. Then, as if descending into an imaginary video game scenario, the architect must successfully navigate through a gauntlet of intimidatingly powerful bureaucrats who inhabit the labyrinthine maze of regulations and building codes that confront them. It would be natural to view the architect emerging victorious from these challenges as heroic and wizard-like. Beware of architects who exploit this often-undeserved status.
Mercer Island Voices
ARTICLE BY LAURA OHATA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY J GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY AND MICL
Jan Garner Schaefer, Owner J Garner Home
Jan Garner Schaefer
Jan is regarded as a queen of style. A 52-year Mercer Island resident with children and grandchildren on the Island, Jan has personally and professionally inspired all who interact with her for decades. Jan has had a long career and leads the team at J. Garner Home.
“I taught in Bellevue for five years, until I needed a job with more flexibility. A friend of mine owned a kitchen store on Main Street in Bellevue and through her, I started working as a sales rep on commission. I paid my dues there, but I loved the business and selling high-quality products.”
Five years later, she started her own company. Twenty years after that, a company offered to buy J. Garner and Company. She decided to carve out the interior design portion of the business out of the sale agreement and moved to the Design Center as J. Garner Home. They are now upholstery specialists selling several of the leading manufacturers, and rugs, lighting, art, accessories, linens, fabrics, and fireplaces.
Their primary customer is the interior designer, and they also sell to architects, builders, and stagers.
“We have a large number of our Mercer Island designers doing wonderful business with us.”
“I have a lot of respect for what designers do. They truly save clients money. A professional interior designer will help you save money and time when it comes to scale, color, fabrics, and resources.”
And people say, “When are you going to retire?” And I think for us the healthier thing is to work. I am blessed with four wonderful employees who bring their individual gifts to our business. I am grateful to be here with a business that has been so good to us.
Chris and Jan in her showroom
J Garner Home Showroom in the Seattle Design Center
Remy
Kai
ESPRESSO EUPHORIA
Cheers! From Heritage 1904 President Missy
ARTICLE BY HERITAGE 1904 VONS 1000 SPIRITS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HERITAGE 1904
Northwest Spirits Premiere Pour of the Month
As Fall arrives with its crisp mornings and cozy evenings,we can think of no better cocktail than our Espresso Euphoria. Its rich flavors and garnish of three coffee beans—wishes for health, wealth, and happiness—make it the perfect sip for the season. Cheers.
ingredients:
• 1.5 ounces Savor Spear® Vodka
• 2.25 ounces High Brew Black and Bold Cold Brew Coffee
• .25 ounce simple syrup
• .75 ounce Wohlfert Clutch Coffee Liqueur
• 3 coffee beans for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1. Combine vodka, coffee liqueur, ice, and simple syrup in a large shaker tin
Step 2. Shake vigorously.
Step 3. Strain into Coupe glass.
Step 4. Garnish with three coffee beans, each symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness, for an extra dose of good vibes.
Enjoy your happy hour in style - cheers!
Espresso Euphoria
ESPRESSO EUPHORIA
Okavango Delta, Ngorongoro Crater and Rowanda
Visiting Africa in Safari Style
Going on a safari is a dream for many, and choosing the right destination can make this dream unforgettable. Among the most sought-after safari destinations are Okavango Delta in Botswana, Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, and rainforests of Rwanda. Each destination offers unique experiences, making any of them a worthy addition to your safari bucket list.
ARTICLE BY BRENDA EL-GAZZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUXXE TRAVEL
Okavango Delta: A Pristine Wilderness
One of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, this unique inland Delta, formed by the Okavango River, supports an astonishing array of wildlife. From the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo—to the rare sitatunga antelope and African wild dog.
A safari in the Okavango Delta offers more than just traditional game drives. Glide through the crystal-clear waterways in a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), track wildlife during a walking safari, or go on a night drive to spot nocturnal creatures.
The Delta is renowned for luxurious safari lodges and camps. These offer all the comforts of a five-star resort, including gourmet dining, private plunge pools, and breathtaking views.
Ngorongoro Crater: The Eden of Africa
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of Africa's most stunning natural wonders. Formed by a collapsed volcano, this vast caldera is a self-contained ecosystem with diverse habitats.
Home to one of Africa's highest densities of wildlife, with substantial populations of lions and elephants, the crater's floor also homes endangered black rhinoceros and thriving wildebeest, zebra, and hippo populations.
Rwanda: The Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Experience
Volcanoes National Park offers one of Earth's most profound wildlife experiences: gorilla trekking. Trekking through the dense rainforest to spend an hour with a family of mountain gorillas is a truly life-changing experience. Observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat gives you insight into their complex social structures and behaviors.
Rwanda's commitment to conservation brought the mountain gorilla population back from the brink of extinction. By visiting Rwanda for gorilla trekking, you directly support these conservation initiatives. Cultural experiences and heritage sites, showcase Rwanda’s history and resilience.
To learn more, contact Luxxe Travel luxxe.travel , your VIP Concierge Travel Services on Mercer Island.
Gorillas in the rainforests of Rwanda
An aerial view of Okavango Delta
Safari style dining
Hip Zephyr Leads Style Campaign
Denim is the backbone of Northwest fashion and most global fashion scenes. Denim’s affordable nature has cemented its relevance through the centuries. Fall arrives back to denim jeans, both full length and cropped. With cropped, one can have multiple shoe styles, including sandals, flats, or booties. Personal rule of thumb – match your top with your footwear and your denim will accommodate; you can dress up or down most outfits by changing your shirt to match your shoe style, ie: a silk blouse and heels will match with jeans, skirt, or dress pants. A t-shirt and tennis shoes will work with any denim shorts, pants, or skirt. Denim’s affability, loyalty, and work horse mentality scream traits applicable to great politicians. Why not “Denim For President”?
Denim for President!
ARTICLE BY DANA SMITH, OWNER HIP
PHOTOGRAPHY
LISI WOLF
Top Right: Boardroom, office or travel ready
Top Left: Match the top with the shoes for a smart pulled-together look
Bottom: Denim works for all ages when paired with stylish accents
SPARKLING STYLE
ARTICLE BY CARIN PARCEL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANA NOVAK, KARA MERCER Everyday Elegance by Carin Susann
All of our hand-crafted pieces are made in Seattle by a female-owned jeweler, allowing me to maintain quality from the first sketch to the product you wear.
My jewelry is meant to honor who you are right now, not who social media has told you, you need to be. Celebrate yourself, complement your style and be proud to wear it for the world to see.
1: Sumaku is the Swahili word for magnet. This is an homage to Africa, where so many of the beautiful gemstones we wear come from.
2: Welcome to the Sumaku Collection, the Carin Susann Designs debut collection. The shape is simple and clean and provides texture and a sense of calm.
3: Partnering Sumaku and Hope necklaces for an elegant look
