West Cobb, GA March 2026

Home should be a place of comfort. But for many people, vein disease shows up in the moments that matter most—On your feet in the kitchen, walking the stairs, relaxing at night, or trying to sleep. Leg pain, swelling, heaviness, and fatigue can quietly limit mobility and enjoyment of daily life. At Truffles Vein Specialists, we focus on advanced vein care that improves comfort at home and supports long-term quality of life.

Truffles Vein Specialists provides advanced vein care focused on lasting quality of life.

Letter From the Editor

There is something deeply personal about the places we call home. They hold our routines and our milestones, our quiet moments and our celebrations. A home reflects how we live, what we value, and where we find comfort.

Author Wendy Wunder captured it perfectly: “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” With that in mind, this month’s issue focuses on what makes home special, from the warmth of shared meals and thoughtfully designed spaces to the people who bring it all to life.

In this Home Edition, we explore the many ways thoughtful design, craftsmanship, and intention shape the spaces around us. From the foundation beneath our feet to the finishing details that make a house feel like ours, this issue is dedicated to the idea that a well-loved home is built with care—over time, and with purpose.

In these pages, you’ll find stories that highlight the people and professionals who help make our homes stronger, more beautiful, and more meaningful, inside and out. We take a closer look at the family legacy behind Anglin's Foundation & Chimney Repair and explore the carefully crafted design behind Haston Interiors. You’ll also learn how Zoomin' Groomin's expert mobile pet groomers care for Cobb County's furry friends right at home.

Whether you’re embarking on a renovation, refreshing a single room, or simply finding inspiration for the future, we hope this issue encourages you to see your home as a living, evolving space that grows with you and tells your story.

Thank you for welcoming us into your home through these pages. We’re honored to be part of the journey.

Warmly,

ANA MARKOSI, EDITOR

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Marcus Dickman | marcus.dickman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Ana Markosi | ana.markosi@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Ian Jarvis Hathaway | ian.hathaway@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Paul Bickford | paulwbickford33@gmail.com

Linda Carroll | lclifephotos@gmail.com

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Lisa Thibault | lisa.thibault@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tran Bui, Andrew J. Bramlett, Wendy Edwards

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Explore Brevard

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Have you had friends over for dinner or have you gone out lately?

Are you part of a group of friends that travels, paints, gardens, plays cards, etc.?

Do you have an exercise group that helps you maintain your indepedence?

Are you living in a maintenance free home?

As a couple, are you having the same needs as you age?

WED., MARCH 25

THE CHEF’S TABLE EXPERIENCE

Georgia Food + Wine Festival

JIM R. MILLER PARK, MARIETTA, GEORGIA

5

Anniversary

Food, drink, music & more!

A VIP experience delivering an intimate, five-course, immersive dining journey where food, culture, and storytelling converge.

Tickets: $150/person

SAT., MARCH 28

VIP LOUNGE AT SAVOR

Enjoy early access to Savor, full access to the general admission area, and an elevated lounge experience throughout the day. Open bars, catered food, chef demos, live music.

Tickets: $165/person

FRIDAY, MARCH 27 FIRED UP

an all-inclusive evening celebrating everything grilled, smoked, and barbecued. Food | Wine | Beer | Spirits | Live Music

Tickets: $85/person

SUNDAY, MARCH 29

FAMILY DAY

A relaxed, family-friendly festival finale, featuring live music, a variety of delectable restaurants, farmers, artisans, and food trucks, artisan market, and free Kids Zone!

Tickets: $25/person

SAT., MARCH 28 SAVOR

A refined afternoon celebrating Georgia’s culinary scene, featuring some of the state’s top chefs, restaurants, and specialty food makers offering a variety of flavorful bites.

Tickets: $99/person

SUNDAY, MARCH 29

SUNDAY VIP LOUNGE

Lounge while listening to live music and enjoying an open bar, exclusive chef demonstrations, and catered offerings. Includes admission to Sunday Funday. Tickets: $139/person

The Brown Dog Bookshop Opens in Downtown Kennesaw

The Brown Dog Bookshop, a brandnew independent bookstore, offers a variety of books, gifts, and events for the Kennesaw community to enjoy. The Brown Dog Bookshop is located at 2940 Dallas St NW, Kennesaw. Visit thebrowndogbookshop.com to learn more.

Caribou Coffee Opens Second Kennesaw Location

Caribou Coffee opened a second location in Kennesaw, offering handcrafted beverages, hot and iced drinks, and a variety of breakfast items and baked goods. Find this location at 2705 Cobb Parkway Northwest, Kennesaw, and visit cariboucoffee. com to view menus and hours.

Precious Gems Academy Opens in Kennesaw

Precious Gems Academy provides safe, engaging childcare that fosters growth and development for children and babies ages 6 weeks to 4 years. Parents can choose from full-time, part-time, and drop-in scheduling. Visit Precious Gems Academy at 3096 Cherokee Street Northwest or visit thepreciousgemsacademy.com to learn more.

Bringing Calm to the Curb

Inside Zoomin’ Groomin’s Stress-Free Approach to Pet Care

Zoomin’ Groomin’ brings gentle, calm, one-on-one pet grooming right to your driveway. With a dedication to pets, people, and the planet, it’s no surprise that thousands of Cobb County pet parents trust Zoomin' Groomin' with their pets. We spoke with owner Paul Urfi to learn what makes Zoomin’ Groomin’ a pioneer in the world of pet grooming services.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR FRANCHISE?

After years in a demanding career, I wanted to build something tangible, something rooted in service, community, and care. Most importantly, I wanted a vocation that aligned with my core values. Zoomin’ Groomin’ stood out because it wasn’t just about grooming dogs. It was about reducing stress for pets and simplifying life for pet parents. Bringing calm, professional care

directly to someone’s driveway felt like meaningful work I could stand behind.

WHAT MAKES ZOOMIN’ GROOMIN’ DIFFERENT FROM TRADITIONAL PET GROOMING SALONS?

We remove almost everything that causes stress or friction. No car rides. No loud rooms full of barking dogs. No cages. Each appointment is for one family, one groomer, and one pet or a household of pets, in a fully equipped mobile salon parked right outside the home. It is personal, predictable, and calm in a way most salons simply cannot replicate.

YOUR SERVICES ARE DESCRIBED AS CALM, UNRUSHED, AND CAGE-FREE. WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT FOR PETS?

Stress compounds. For anxious pets, senior pets, or dogs with past grooming trauma, traditional environments can

ARTICLE BY ANA MARKOSI

be overwhelming. By slowing things down and eliminating cages, we create space for trust. Pets sense that. When they are calmer, grooming is safer, more comfortable, and the results are better for everyone.

HOW DO YOU TAILOR YOUR SERVICES TO DIFFERENT PETS BASED ON SIZE, AGE, AND TEMPERAMENT?

Every appointment starts with a real conversation. We ask about age, health, behavior, past grooming experiences, and the pet parent’s goals. A senior dog might need breaks. A puppy might need a gentle introduction. A nervous rescue might need patience more than perfection. We adjust the pace, the tools, and sometimes even the haircut to meet the pet where they are.

WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING AND TRAINING YOUR GROOMERS?

Skill matters, but character matters more. I look for integrity, patience, coachability, and genuine care for animals. Groomers work independently in our vans, so trust is huge. We train for consistency, safety, and communication. Not just grooming technique, but also how to interact with pet parents and advocate for the pet’s well-being. Customers expect a higher level of service and care, and we believe they deserve it.

HOW DOES ZOOMIN GROOMIN ENSURE A SAFE, HIGH-QUALITY EXPERIENCE FOR EVERY PET?

Through process and accountability. We document every groom, review behavior notes, follow safety protocols, and maintain our vans meticulously. Our equipment is professional grade, our power is all-electric, and our groomers are trained to stop if a pet shows signs of stress. Safety is never negotiable.

YOUR COMPANY EMPHASIZES ECO-FRIENDLY GROOMING PRODUCTS. CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR PHILOSOPHY?

We believe gentleness should apply to pets, people, and the environment. We use high-quality biodegradable shampoos and conditioners that are safe for sensitive skin and waterways. Our vans capture wastewater on board and run on quiet, all-electric power.

WHAT DO CUSTOMERS MOST OFTEN TELL YOU THEY APPRECIATE ABOUT ZOOMIN’ GROOMIN’, ESPECIALLY BUSY FAMILIES OR PET OWNERS WITH ANXIOUS PETS?

Convenience and peace of mind. Busy families love not having to rearrange their day around drop-offs and pickups. Owners of anxious pets tell us their dogs are calmer, happier, and sometimes even excited to see the van. That feedback never gets old.

CAN YOU SHARE A MEMORABLE STORY OF A PET YOU’VE HELPED, WHERE THE GROOMING EXPERIENCE MADE A REAL DIFFERENCE?

We’ve worked with several dogs who’d been turned away from salons due to anxiety or aggression. One senior dog in particular hadn’t been groomed comfortably in years. By slowing the process down and building trust over a few visits, we went from barely being able to trim nails to completing full grooms calmly. The owner was emotional in the best way.

DO YOU OFFER SPECIAL PROMOTIONS, INTRODUCTORY PACKAGES, OR LOYALTY PROGRAMS?

We offer a new customer discount, multi-pet discounts, and a loyalty program that rewards recurring appointments. Regular grooming keeps pets healthier and calmer, so we make it easier for families to maintain a consistent routine.

Happy Pet Parents

“My dog is so shy, but this company rains love and companionship all over; she actually looks forward to her next visits, so thank you!!”

– Lisa B.

“So happy with the service. They take such good care of my boy Leo. Having the mobile service makes all the difference in the world.”

– Treva

“Absolutely great service. Zoomin’ Groomin’ was gentle, communicative, and best of all, convenient. I would definitely recommend their services!”

– Siegel A.

“They were wonderful with my challenging crew. I would recommend you give them a chance, especially if your dog doesn’t do well at brickand-mortar groomers.”

– Mitzi D.

The owners of piastra, Greg Asher Lipman and Betty Rose Bahl are thrilled to announce the launch of a new Café and Grocery concept called Asher & Rose Modern Grocers! a hospitality forward shopping and dining experience.

On our Shelves

Fresh baked bread and bakery items

House made prepared meals

Customized cuts of meat & fish

Curated dry goods

Fresh produce

Local dairy & cheeses

45 W. Park Square Marietta, GA 30060 770-425-9300

“Our vision for Asher & Rose is to blend the

Chef's Corner

DISCOVER LOCALLY GROWN FLAVOR AT MARIETTA SQUARE FARMER'S MARKET

ARTICLE BY ANA MARKOSI

Every Saturday morning, just off the historic Marietta Square in downtown Marietta, Georgia, something special unfolds that draws locals and visitors alike: the Marietta Square Farmers Market. Celebrated as one of the region’s favorite farmers' markets, it’s more than a place to shop. It’s a community tradition that brings fresh food, local makers, and vibrant energy to the heart of town.

A YEAR-ROUND GATHERING FOR FRESHNESS

Open from 9 a.m. to noon, the market runs year-round with a short seasonal break around the holidays. There’s no admission fee, so you can stroll through the stalls at your own pace, whether you’re stocking up on ingredients for the week or just soaking up the Saturday morning vibes.

WHAT YOU’LL FIND

With more than 60 dedicated vendors, the Marietta Square Farmers Market showcases the very best of Georgia’s local agriculture and artisan culture. Expect to find:

• Seasonal fruits and vegetables that go from farm to table

• Specialty foods like honey, jams, and preserves

• Artisanal products like cut flowers, herbal soaps, and knife sharpening

• Pet treats and garden plants perfect for furry friends and green thumbs alike

• Fresh, homemade breads and baked goods

Everything is grown or made by the vendor, ensuring quality, transparency, and a true connection between you and the makers.

MORE THAN JUST A MARKET

The market is part of a larger weekend experience. Right alongside the farmers market, the Marietta Square Artisan Market brings together local artists and crafters, adding even more creativity and charm to your visit. Wander through unique handmade goods while sipping your morning coffee. It’s a perfect weekend ritual.

A COMMUNITY HUB

The Marietta Square Farmers Market isn’t just about shopping; it’s a gathering place where friends meet, neighbors catch up, and visitors discover the flavors and makers that make Marietta a special community. Whether you’re planning a farm-fresh dinner, looking for a gift, or just want to enjoy a lively Saturday morning, this market delivers.

BUILT ON FAMILY

THE LEGACY OF ANGLIN’S FOUNDATION & MASONRY REPAIRS

ARTICLE BY ANA MARKOSI

For nearly a century, Anglin’s Foundation & masonry repairs has been a cornerstone of quality craftsmanship in the Marietta community. Founded in 1930, the family-owned and operated business has been passed down through generations, each one committed to the same core principle: doing the job right the first time. Today, that legacy is carried forward by Skip Anglin, company president and fourth-generation mason. For Skip, the work is not just a profession, but a continuation of a family tradition built on integrity, skill, and service.

A FAMILY TRADITION THAT MATTERS

Growing up in a family of masons, Skip learned early that quality work isn’t optional is expected. That mindset continues to define the company’s approach today. “At Anglin’s, you will never deal with a franchise,” Skip says. “We’re a one-stop shop for all settling and sinking foundation repairs, along with leaning chimney repair experts. When it comes to protecting a customer’s home, we believe ‘simply do it right the first time or don’t do it at all.’”

That philosophy has earned Anglin’s Foundation & masonry repairs a reputation as a trusted local expert for homeowners facing some of the most critical structural issues in their home. From foundation stabilization to masonry restoration, every project is handled with care, precision, and long-term solutions in mind.

ROOTED IN THE MARIETTA COMMUNITY

Skip takes great pride in continuing his family’s legacy in Marietta, where trust and word of mouth still matter. The company’s A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau reflects decades of dependable service and satisfied customers who know their homes are in good hands.

Beyond the job site, the Anglin family remains actively involved in the community, supporting organizations like the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and children’s healthcare charities. Giving back, Skip says, is simply part of doing business the right way.

PROTECTING WHAT MATTERS MOST

At its core, Anglin’s Foundation & masonry repairs is about protecting the places where families live, grow, and build memories. With nearly 100 years of experience behind them and a fourth generation leading the way, the Anglin family continues to operate on craftsmanship, honesty, and family values.

For homeowners seeking reliable foundation and masonry repair backed by decades of expertise, Anglin’s is a legacy you can trust. Visit  anglinsfoundationrepairs.com to learn more.

5 Warning Signs Your Foundation Needs Repair

CRACKS IN WALLS AND FLOORS:

Large or widening vertical cracks can indicate foundation problems, while horizontal cracks can signal severe pressure on the foundation walls.

STICKING DOORS AND WINDOWS

If doors or windows become difficult to open or close, it may indicate the foundation has shifted, causing misalignment in the frames.

UNEVEN FLOORS

Floors that fell uneven, dip toward one corner, or separate from baseboards can suggest the foundation is settling unevenly.

GAPS AROUND DOORS AND WINDOWS

Gaps between doors, window frames, or exterior siding can signal foundation movement.

WATER INTRUSION OR DAMPNESS

Damp basement walls or water pooling near the foundation can indicate cracks or drainage issues that may weaken the foundation over time.

BREVARD

WHERE YOU GO TO REMEMBER WHAT MATTERS

Why Brevard Is Worth the Drive It’s easy to gravitate toward the usual North Carolina destinations. Charlotte. Raleigh. Asheville. Familiar places that tend to fill up fast. But just three and a half hours from Atlanta, Brevard and Transylvania County offer something different. Something more grounded, refreshingly easy to enjoy, and lively when you want it to be.

Brevard’s appeal is that it doesn’t force one kind of experience.

“It’s amazing how, in just a few hours, you can step into a whole other world with beautiful mountains, 250 waterfalls, no traffic, and plenty of peace and quiet, with lots to do when you want it," Clark Lovelace, Executive Director of Transylvania County Tourism says. "Outdoor recreation, art, beer, music, and shopping. It’s all here, done Brevard style. ExploreBrevard.com is the go-to for lodging deals and everything you need to plan your time in our community.”

What makes Brevard especially appealing is that it doesn’t ask visitors to fit into a single category. You don’t have to be overly outdoorsy to enjoy it, though the natural beauty is undeniable. The town works just as well for people who want to stroll, shop, eat well, and experience a true mountain community. What stands out just as much is how genuinely nice everyone is, from shop owners to locals you meet along the way.

It’s the kind of place that works just as well for a girls' trip, a couple's retreat, a family vacation, or a solo escape.

“While Brevard is a true outdoor paradise, it also has plenty of other things that make it an incredible community to experience,” Clark adds. “From a quaint, authentic downtown full of friendly folks to independent boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and an impressive lineup of breweries and music venues. There’s a different kind of fun around every corner.”

It’s a town that stays active without feeling rushed.

Music, Brews, and Local Flavor

Music and craft beer are part of everyday life here.

“Music and brews go together like peanut butter and jelly, and we have plenty of both,” he says. “From the classics at Brevard Music Center to bluegrass or funk at local venues, there’s always something playing. Pair that with our local breweries, and you’ll find live music pouring out somewhere almost every night.”

Where You Stay Matters

Lodging choices reflect that same flexibility, whether visitors want to stay close to downtown or retreat into the mountains.

“When it comes to places to stay, Brevard offers plenty of options from branded hotels near vibrant downtown Brevard and its restaurants and breweries, to comfortable cabins in remote mountain settings, to luxury resorts where pampering awaits,” Clark explains.

And then there’s Brevard’s most unexpected signature, white squirrels.

“For nearly 100 years, Brevard has been celebrating its white squirrels," Clark shares. "You’ll find the White Squirrel Shoppe downtown, images of our furry friends throughout town, and White Squirrel Weekend each May. And if you’re patient, stop by Silvermont Park or the Brevard College campus for a chance to spot one up close.”

A Weekend, Experienced Firsthand

On the drive into Brevard with my husband, two older teens, and dog, we stopped at Upper Whitewater Falls, a dramatic 411-foot plunge that the U.S. Forest Service calls “the highest waterfall east of the Rockies.” From there, we arrived without much of an agenda, which turned out to be exactly right. We stayed at Pilot Cove, a petfriendly cabin that immediately set the tone for the weekend.

Our first day was spent exploring downtown, stopping into local shops, grabbing coffee, and hanging out at Brevard Brewing Company. It’s walkable, welcoming, and full of locally owned spots that invite you to linger. We stayed downtown for dinner that night, keeping things simple and unhurried.

The next morning started at Pisgah Bakehouse, followed by something completely new for our family, fly fishing. Guided by J.E.B. Hall and Zach Hart from Davidson River Outfitters, we spent the morning learning the basics and enjoying the peacefulness of the river. One by one, we caught rainbow trout, and by the end of the morning, it was clear this would be our favorite part of the trip. We were officially hooked.

Lunch at the nationally known Oskar Blues Brewery checked all the boxes, with outdoor seating, a food truck, and a dog-friendly setup. One of Brevard’s biggest draws is the accessibility of its waterfalls. Many are close together and reached by short walks, making it easy to experience several in one afternoon. We visited Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls, and Sliding Rock.

That evening, dinner at Wood and Vine felt like the perfect way to end a full day. On our final morning, we stopped at Morning Social, explored the Lumberyard District, and took the scenic route home.

Why We’ll Be Back

What stood out most wasn’t just what we did, but how the weekend felt. We had time to explore, experience something new, and truly connect. Brevard isn’t a place you rush through. It’s a place you stay longer because it reminds you of what matters.

SAVOR THE Heart OF Georgia

The Georgia Food & Wine Festival

This March 27–29, Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta will come alive with one of the most mouthwatering celebrations of the season: the Georgia Food & Wine Festival. Presented by Georgia Grown, this vibrant 3-day event invites you to taste, sip, dance, and celebrate everything that makes Georgia’s culinary scene so unforgettable.

Imagine a weekend where foodies, wine lovers, families, and music fans come together at the heart of Marietta. From celebrated chefs and top local restaurants to artisanal makers and inventive beverage stations, this festival is a true feast for all the senses.

FRIDAY

NIGHT: FIRED-UP KICKOFF

Your weekend begins with a sizzle! Kick off the festival with “Fired Up,” an all-inclusive evening tasting event featuring classic Southern barbecue. Think whole hog cookin’ and savory sides paired with bold drinks and great company. It’s the perfect way to dive into Georgia’s rich food heritage.

Saturday Savor: Taste & Toast

Saturday is the heart of the festival. The Savor event transforms the park into a gourmet experience for adults 21+. Tickets include:

• A souvenir wine glass for unlimited tastings from wine, beer, and spirits stations

• Culinary credits to sample delectable bites from top restaurants

• Live cooking demos on the Celebrity Chef Stage

• Artisan markets, floral crafts, and a lively atmosphere filled with music and fun

Whether you’re discovering a new favorite wine or grabbing a bite from a local chef, Saturday is a full celebration of Georgian flavor.

SUNDAY

FUNDAY: FAMILY FUN & FLAVOR

The festival wraps up with “Sunday Funday,” a family-friendly finale perfect for everyone:

• Live music

• A Kids Zone filled with activities

• The Georgia’s Best Cocktail Challenge, where talented mixologists compete for the crown

• More great food, drinks, and artisan shopping

• A Silent Auction benefiting SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center

Bring the whole family and make Sunday a delicious celebration of community and culture. Entry is free for children 10 and under.

A CELEBRATION OF GEORGIA

From local vineyards and restaurants to artisans showcasing handcrafted goods, the Georgia Food & Wine Festival is more than an event; It’s a showcase of Georgia pride and Southern hospitality.

Whether you’re a lifelong Georgian or planning your first visit, this is a weekend where every bite tells a story, and every sip feels like home. Get your tickets, bring your appetite, and step into three days of unforgettable flavor

THE ATLANTA

Home Show

THE 2026 HOME SHOW IS BACK TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT PROJECT

Atlanta homeowners and design lovers, mark your calendars! The 47th Annual Atlanta Home Show returns March 20–22 to the Cobb Galleria Centre, bringing together thousands of locals and hundreds of trusted home improvement professionals under one roof. Whether you’re planning a major renovation or simply looking for fresh inspiration, this event has something for everyone.

With more than 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest in home products, services, and innovations, the Atlanta Home Show is your one-stop destination to shop, compare, and save on everything from kitchens and bathrooms to landscaping and decor. Meet real experts, get personalized project answers, and discover show-only deals that can help bring your home vision to life, all in a fun, community-focused atmosphere.

This year’s show also features dynamic stage presentations and interactive experiences designed to educate and entertain. From practical demos to creative ideas, stage sessions offer expert insights on topics such as gardening, storage solutions, interior design, and more. It’s a great way to gather tips and inspiration before launching your next project.

Advance tickets are available at a discount at atlantahomeshow.com. Kids 12 and under attend free, and Hero Days offer free admission to military, teachers, and frontline workers with ID.

Whether you’re tackling a renovation, planning a refresh, or just love design and home innovations, the Atlanta Home Show is the place to connect, learn, and explore. Don’t miss out on three days of inspiration, savings, and expert advice right in the heart of Atlanta!

Peach Cobbler Factory Marietta

ARTICLE BY ANA MARKOSI

DESIGNING With INTENTION

Inside the Thoughtful World of Haston Interiors

For Pam Haston, interior design has always been personal. Long before she founded Haston Interiors in 2005, Pam was already experimenting with space, color, and self-expression. At just four years old, after moving into a new family home, she was given the freedom to choose the color of her bedroom. She chose purple, a soft lilac, and soon began rearranging furniture and repainting as inspiration struck. That childhood bedroom became her first design studio, a place where intuition and creativity quietly took root.

Though her professional path initially led her through corporate work and a career collaborating with artists and designers, the pull toward creative independence never faded. “I still had that desire to work in something artistic and to have my own business,” she recalls, a desire that ultimately became Haston Interiors.

Traditional Roots to Thoughtful Simplicity

Pam opened her business in Dayton, Ohio, where traditional homes and layered design reigned. Early projects often featured multi-layered window treatments, such as sheers, drapery, valances, and rich fabrics, allowing her love of textiles to shine. As her life and business evolved, moving first to Iowa and eventually to Atlanta, so did her approach to design.

Today, her work reflects a more refined, intentional simplicity. “You have to be creative without being overly complicated,” she says. Clients increasingly seek streamlined solutions that feel effortless but remain functional. Rather than imposing a signature style, Pam focuses on understanding how her clients live and what will genuinely serve them day to day.

That evolution extends beyond aesthetics. Over the years, Pam has expanded into consulting and full-scale project management, guiding clients through renovations and remodels from start to finish. She remains closely involved with contractors, overseeing every detail from initial orders to the final reveal, ensuring continuity, clarity, and peace of mind throughout the process.

Designing for People First

When Pam enters a new project, she doesn’t begin with color swatches or floor plans. She begins with people.

“I find out who lives in the house and who will use each room,” she explains. She walks through the entire home, not just the space being redesigned, to understand how clients move through their environment and what truly matters to them. Inspiration photos and style references help guide the conversation, but the process is always collaborative and personal.

“I don’t go off and come back a month later with a plan,” she says. “It’s very collaborative.” That hands-on, client-centered approach has become one of Haston Interiors' defining elements.

A Project Without Borders

One of Pam’s most meaningful projects didn’t happen down the street; it happened across the ocean.

Recently, she completed a full home design for longtime clients who purchased a home in the Virgin Islands. The project was executed entirely virtually, relying on FaceTime walkthroughs, shared photographs, and meticulous coordination. Fabrics were

sourced stateside and shipped internationally; upholstery and drapery were managed from afar. Despite the distance, the collaboration remained seamless, a testament to trust built nearly two decades earlier when Pam first designed the clients’ Ohio home.

“It’s one of the things I’m most proud of,” she says, “simply because I didn’t have total control and was still able to collaborate so closely.”

Trust, Professionalism, and the Sacredness of Home

Pam’s background in customer service, both corporate and creative, informs every client relationship. She approaches each project with punctuality, professionalism, and a deep respect for the vulnerability of inviting someone into one’s home.

“A home is a sanctuary,” she says. Clients often trust her quickly, a dynamic she attributes to clear communication, careful listening, and genuine care for their needs. That trust, she believes, is earned through responsiveness and consistency above all else.

Color Returns, Balance Endures

Pam is delighted to see color returning to the design scene. After years dominated by white, beige, and

Haston Interiors is about more than beautiful spaces. It’s about listening, adapting, and designing environments that evolve alongside the people who inhabit them.

gray, she welcomes the embrace of blues, silvery greens, and calming hues that subtly influence mood. “Vanilla shouldn’t be your mood all the time,” she says.

She also sees transitional design as a lasting force, particularly in Atlanta, where traditional homes are common. The style offers balance, softening contemporary edges while modernizing classic spaces. It’s especially appealing to empty nesters looking to repurpose rooms and create homes that reflect a new chapter of life without abandoning warmth or character.

Designing a Life Well Lived

Haston Interiors is about more than beautiful spaces. It’s about listening, adapting, and designing environments that evolve alongside the people who inhabit them. From a purple childhood bedroom to international, full-scale transformations, Pam Haston’s work remains grounded in one guiding principle: design should support how people truly live.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED

There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.

Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.

“Tackling each space and room as its own story and concept is how to make a new space feel personal,” Manz explains. “But bringing it all together cohesively is always the challenge.”

Her solution? Warmth, intention, and a strong belief in the power of people. In new builds it can take years for a home to shed its newness. For this project, the goal was to fast-track that sense of belonging by layering in pieces with history and heart. Vintage market finds, local artists, and meaningful objects play a starring role throughout the home.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”

That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.

ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME

The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.

Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.

THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED

The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.

“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”

A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.

POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT

If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.

LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH

Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.

Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless. At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life.”

PROJECT CREDITS

The Fresh Start

There’s something about this fresh, ethereal feeling that not only melts away the last traces of winter but also sparks a quiet urge to refresh our surroundings. The cupboards that need decluttering, the baseboards that have gone untouched for months, the unworn clothes that no longer serve us—it all calls for renewal. This is the essence of spring cleaning: clearing out the old to make space for the new, both in our homes and in our minds.

For some, the idea of cleaning feels anything but peaceful. The thought of tackling clutter and dust can be overwhelming, turning what should be a refreshing transition into a dreaded chore. That’s why we’ve created a simple, practical guide to help you navigate spring cleaning with ease, turning it into a rhythmic, intentional process that mirrors the calm of the season itself.

Week 1: Refresh and Declutter

• Open windows for fresh air and let the natural light in.

• Declutter surfaces—countertops, coffee tables and shelves—removing anything unnecessary.

• Go through kitchen cabinets and toss expired pantry items and mismatched containers.

• Sort through closets, donating or repurposing clothes you haven’t worn in the past year.

• Wipe down baseboards and dust ceiling fans, light fixtures and vents.

Week 2: Deep Clean and Rejuvenate

• Wash windows and mirrors to welcome in the sunlight.

• Deep clean the fridge and pantry, wiping down shelves and organizing items.

• Launder curtains, cushion covers and throw blankets.

• Vacuum and shampoo rugs and carpets for a fresh start.

• Rotate and flip mattresses; wash all bedding, including pillows.

Week 3: Outdoor and Seasonal Transitions

• Sweep porches, patios and outdoor furniture, preparing for warm-weather gatherings.

• Check gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.

• Tidy up gardens and potted plants, removing dead leaves and refreshing the soil.

• Store winter coats and boots, making space for lighter spring essentials.

• Replace seasonal decor—bring in fresh flowers, soft pastels and airy textures.

Week 4: Finishing Touches and Maintenance

• Touch-up scuff marks on walls and doors.

• Stock up on cleaning supplies to maintain a fresh environment.

• Set a simple weekly cleaning routine to keep your home feeling refreshed.

• Light a scented candle or diffuse essential oils to celebrate your clean, peaceful space.