QC Exclusive-No.118-2026-Issue 1-The Good Life Issue

Design, travel, food, and culture in the Queen City.

Good Life Issue Issue No. 118 | February 2026

Now representing German Expressionist Otto Neumann (1895-1975)

Neumann’s work is found in many important American and European collections, including Museum of Modern Art – New York, Art Institute – Chicago, Detroit Institute of Arts, High Museum of Art.

@PictureHouseGal Craig Alan, Motivo, oil on canvas, 48” x 60”

@PictureHouseGallery @picture_house_gallery

Woodlands, Wild Horses, and Brushstrokes

Chelsea Handley’s creative world. 28

The Fluid Landscapes Maja Godlewska’s new show at Mint Museum. 30

Where Hustle Meets Flow

The Club in South End offers Charlotteans a blend of sweat, focus and community. 32

A Makers' Marketplace

Shop local in the Queen City in 2026. 34

The Vitality of Experience

Over 20 years of sciencebased wellness and longevity care in Charlotte and Lake Norman at Carolina HealthSpan Institute.

Expect the Unexpected

The owners of Rally Pickleball find a new angle with the opening of Henrietta’s.

Spaghett’s Smoked Ricotta Caramelle A delicious dish in Fourth Ward.

Soul Gastrolounge’s Anchovy Fries A fun dish from a Charlotte staple. 48

Sneak's Green Thumb A tasty mocktail in Elizabeth.

WE DRIVE CHARLOT TE

ACCOMMODATIONS • TOWNS • ADVENTURES

67

A Quiet Masterpiece Exploring South Carolina's best kept secret, Santee Cooper Country.

70

A Modern Retreat In Asheville’s Heart The Flat Iron Hotel blends sleek design with a prime location.

74

Wilkes County Wine Country

North Carolina’s most underrated escape for wine connoisseurs and nature lovers.

Home & Design

PROFILES • SPACES • FEATURED HOME

51

Quiet Transformation

With this light-drenched Charlotte A-frame, Lisa Sherry creates a deeply personal retreat for the rhythm of daily life.

56

A Winter Haven

A nature-inspired bedroom by Aguilar Design Studio brings the magic of Banner Elk’s mountain winters indoors.

58

The Mood Room Inside a Ro House den where texture and tone take center stage.

60 Inspired By The View

A grounded and dramatic family room by Lucy and Company.

62 Forever Home

A gorgeous build from one of the premier builders in the country, Kingswood.

The Exclusives

78

New Year, New Horizons

A quick guide to beginning the year mindfully— through travel, movement, nature, and community.

82

A Guide to Staying Well Hotels and B&Bs across the Carolinas worth planning a trip around in the new year.

Kathleen Russo, MD

86

Skiing The SouthEast

Our guide to some of the very best winter destinations in North Carolina and beyond.

Reset Your Metabolism.

Redefine Your Health

A science-based, personalized approach to sustainable weight loss, metabolic repair, and long-term vitality.

Weight gain isn’t a lack of willpower- it’s biology. Hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and aging all influence how your body stores, burns, and responds to food and stress.

Our Metabolic & Weight Optimization Method is designed to help you take back control. Rooted in medical science and performance physiology, this program combines advanced metabolic testing, GLP-1 and peptide protocols, hormone optimization, and personalized nutrition to help you lose weight, increase energy, and restore metabolic flexibility.

This is precision weight loss — measured, personalized, and built for lasting change, not temporary results.

Beautiful Results,

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

Welcome to our first issue of 2026, a fresh start filled with stories that celebrate living well. From standout arts and culture to incredible food, beautifully designed homes, inspiring travel, and intentional wellness, this issue is packed with ideas to help you begin the year with creativity and purpose.

We begin with Arts & Culture, featuring the vibrant work of Chelsea Handley and a compelling new exhibition at The Mint Museum. We also highlight Shop Local QC, a great way to support Charlotte’s local businesses and makers. On the wellness front, we explore movement and recovery at the new The Club and speak with Carolina HealthSpan Institute about long-term health and energy in the new year.

In Food & Drink, we visit a new Charlotte favorite, Henrietta’s, sample standout dishes at Spaghett and Soul Gastrolounge, and enjoy a mocktail at Sneak.

The Home & Design section features cozy yet refined spaces including a new A-frame project from Lisa Sherry Interieurs, thoughtful interiors by Aguilar Design Studio, Ro House, and Lucy and Company, and a showstopping featured home from Kingswood.

In Travel, we head to Santee, check into the newly opened Flatiron Hotel in Asheville, and take a winter escape to Wilkes County for some amazing vineyards and nature. What an underrated part of our state.

We round out the issue with a collection of top-tier stays, wellness retreats, and destination experiences designed to help you reset, recharge, and refocus in the year ahead. Plus, where to hit the slopes in 2026.

We hope this issue offers fresh ideas and inspiring places to explore in the year ahead.. Cheers to new beginnings, and as always, peace.

Sincerely,

Jon-Paul Grice, Art Director Brett Barter, Publisher

EST. 2011

PUBLISHER

Brett Barter

ART DIRECTOR

Jon-Paul Grice

EDITOR

Sunny Hubler

EXECUTIVE ADMIN

Kathryn Keller

EDITORIAL

Eleanor Merrell

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jamey Price

COVER PHOTO photo by Emily Followill of a Kingswood build

October 11, 2025 – February 22, 2026

Mint Museum Uptown at Levine Center for the Arts -

Renaissance, Romanticism, and Rebellion: European Art from the Smith-Naifeh Collection is generously presented by the Mint Museum Auxiliary with supporting sponsorship by The Hartford and First Horizon Bank. Individual support is kindly provided by Laura and Mike Grace. The Mint Museum is supported, in part, by the City of Charlotte and the North Carolina Arts Council. IMAGE: Emile Schuffenecker (French, 1851–1934). Falaise a Etretat (cliff at Etretat), 1912,oil on canvas. The Smith-Naifeh Collection.

704.337.2000 | mintmuseum.org | @themintmuseum

CONTACT US

FEEDBACK

We welcome your feedback and believe it is very valuable in our constant pursuit to be better as a publication. We encourage all of our readers to contact us with any critiques, compliments, or questions by email at info@qcexclusive.com.

ADVERTISING

Contact Brett Barter by phone at 704219-9088 or email at brett@qcexclusive.com.

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Contact us at sunny@qcexclusive.com.

ARTISTS • GALLERIES • STYLE • WELLNESS

Woodlands, Wild Horses, and Brushstrokes

Chelsea Handley’s creative world.

words ELEANOR MERRELL photos JAMEY PRICE or courtesy CHELSEA HANDLEY

Chelsea Handley is the kind of person who includes her dog when she lists her family members and believes the number of sap buckets on the sugar maples and haunted tales in the town lore tell you almost everything you need to know about a place. She is a mother and an artist and a sports fan and an outdoors enthusiast — probably in that order. As a kid, she roamed the woods, snacking on wild blackberries, fishing from a canoe with her family, and of course building forts. When she wasn’t outside, she was painting or drawing her adventures and the animals she met, or she was sketching blueprints of her dream home.

AA neighbor and professional artist recognized and encouraged Handley’s aptitude for art. She offered Hadley guidance, advice, exposure to the local art scene, and a window into life when creating is your career. “I used to pet sit for her, and I would take that opportunity to walk around her art studio — still smelling like turpentine — in awe, sneaking a peek at what she was working on at that moment,” recalls Handley. “I told myself I was going to have a studio of my very own just like that one day.”

A golf scholarship brought Handley from New England to the Charlotte area for her college years. Love of the Queen City and her husband, who she met during her time at Pfeiffer University — where she minored in studio art — made her stay. Although she now works full-time as a Technical Director at ESPN, Handley still makes space in her life to paint. And echoes from her past are forever prevalent in her work. “The subject matter of my paintings always roots back to something I loved as a little girl: animals, nature, design, and architecture,” says Handley. “Memories inspire me, and I translate it into a common and current theme.” Before beginning any new work, Handley diligently researches her subject. Her goal with all her subjects —

whether it’s a person, animal, or landscape — is to capture its spirit, and to do so, she must first understand it. “Let's say it's my painting of Picasso, the wild horse from Sand Wash Basin,” she said. “I read the accounts of wild equine photographers who have studied his habits for the past 30 years. I want to know his personality. How many harems did he have? How was he with their offspring? Was he as tenacious as the stories make him out to be? What was Sand Wash Basin like?”

Much of Handley’s work is by commission, resulting in a truly diverse range of subjects. Handley stays nimble as she determines how best to represent them. For example, when completing a life size painting of Jimmy Page, Handley used actual pieces of wood to replicate Page’s guitar. She added mother-of-pearl inlays, ivory tuners, and strings to the piece to produce a captivating 3D work.

No matter what Handley is creating, her hope for the viewer is simple: “I want people to notice the beauty in everything around us,” she says.

info @hausofchelsea / hausofchelsea.com

The Fluid Landscapes

NNow through March 1, 2026 see Maja Godlewska’s The Fluid Landscapes, a meditation on nature, memory, and human impact, at Mint Museum Uptown.

Artist Maja Godlewska studied at the Academy of Fine and Design Arts in Wrocław, Poland. She currently serves as professor and area coordinator for painting in the department of art and art history at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

She has spent the last two decades exploring the intricate, and often disruptive, ways humanity interacts with the natural world. Her newest body of work, with large-scale, immersive installations, is an exploration of tourism's impact on the environment and takes center stage as the next Constellation CLT installation at Mint Museum Uptown. In its eighth year, Constellation CLT is an exhibition series designed to connect visitors to The Mint Museum with

artists in our community.

"This body of work is rooted in my memories and experiences of landscapes I have once visited. I often chose to follow tourists through spectacular environments, struck by how quickly we just capture a view and hurry to the next. Beneath this rush is the sense of inevitable loss—of natural habitats, of environments once considered eternal, from ice fields to rainforests. A global urgency to see them before they vanish only continues to grow. The works in this exhibition are my contemplations of nature: expressions of wonder and longing, invitations to pause, to look closely, and to revere," Godlewska says.

info

mintmuseum.org @themintmuseum

Where Hustle Meets Flow

The Club in South End offers Charlotteans a blend of sweat, focus and community.

IIn Charlotte’s vibrant South End neighbourhood, a new kind of wellness hub has opened its doors. At The Club, two friends and founders are blending fitness, coworking and community into one space.

Co-owners Nicole Paradis and Meg Mars brought their backgrounds in Boston’s fitness world to Charlotte. The pair met while working in a studio in Boston — Nicole teaching and training instructors while also working in sales, Meg leading ride programs and operations. Together they dreamed of “something bigger, different and uniquely ours.”

The Club aims to serve Charlotteans as more than just a gym, providing a space for community, co-working and great amenities, too (hint: If you love a great latte, this is your spot).

How it Works

The facility spans 8,000-plus square feet and is split across two stories. Upstairs is a bright, open, naturally lit coworking environment with 30 seats where you can plug in, grab your caffeinated beverage of choice via local partner Pertinacious Coffee, and work before or after your workout. The coffee bar also serves smoothies, juices, and rotating pastries.

Downstairs is moodier and divided into two fitness studios, with showers, lockers and a dry bar with make-up vanities. The Club’s workout area leans into an energetic, music-driven atmosphere.

What to Expect

Members and visitors can choose from four signature classes: RIDE is a rhythm-based cycling class with choreography and an immersive feel; TRAIN is a low-impact circuit-style weight lifting class designed to build strength and confidence; PULSE is a heated sculpt-style format using light weights and high reps, all synced to music; and STRETCH is a heated, music-driven recovery class focused on mobility and release.

Charlotte’s South End is already a hotbed for boutique fitness and coworking spaces — but few combine the two so seamlessly. For professionals juggling remote work and workouts, this concept offers a unique convenience: work, exercise, shower, and feel refreshed without ever leaving the building.

If you’re in the Charlotte area and looking for a fresh take on wellness meets community, The Club may be worth a visit. And given the founders’ emphasis on community, you might just leave with more than a good workout. By blending fitness, work, and togetherness, Paradis and Mars are making the act of self-care and the art of productivity a more manageable experience. info theclubnc.com @theclub.nc

Cottingham Chalk has long set the bar for real estate excellence in Charlotte. Now, as part of Compass, we’re able to preserve the core values that define us – integrity, collaboration, and commitment – while gaining access to cutting-edge tools and expanded resources. Same people. Same values. Same exceptional service.

Makers Meet Marketplace

Shop local in the Queen City in

IIn a world dominated by big-box retailers and next-day shipping, Shop Local Queen City advocates for a different kind of shopping, one that’s less about consumerism and profit margins and more about supporting small businesses; highlighting local talent; and creating intentional, community-centered experiences that bring people together.

What began as a series of pop-up events in 2017 has since evolved into a dynamic blend of in-person markets and online commerce. Over the past eight years, Katie Greder Murray, founder and CEO of Shop Local Queen City, has built relationships with Charlottearea purveyors of all manner of goods. She’s now able to draw on those relationships to curate vendor lineups that are balanced and tailored to Shop Local Queen City’s typical customer. Each market is a little different from those that preceded it, but all reflect the diversity and creativity of Charlotte’s maker scene, from Ballantyne to Birkdale.

“Charlotte has so much talent, and without markets (ours and others) many of these incredible creatives would go undiscovered,” says Murray. For vendors, participation comes with more than foot traffic: Each market includes high-quality photo and video content, helping small businesses boost visibility far beyond the event itself. For guests, every market is designed to delight, from interactive photo stations sponsored by The Sisters.Co, to tote bag giveaways, to the simple delight of a crisp fall morning spent strolling among vendor tents, optimistic about discovering this year’s best gift, cappuccino cup in hand.

Ultimately, though, these markets drive more than vendor visibility and the local economy. The true cornerstone of Shop Local Queen City is community. “It’s what transforms a market from just a shopping event into something much bigger,” explains Murray. “We see it every time vendors reunite, hugging each other, catching up, and even helping each other set up tents before the crowds arrive. We see it in the friend groups who make our markets their weekend plans, choosing to spend their time together in a space that celebrates supporting local. And we see it in the families who come out after a long week, kids in tow, looking for something fun and intentional to do together.”

As Murray looks to her business’ future, she has her sights set on further expansion of the online directory that Shop Local Queen City added in 2020. “Whether you’re searching for the perfect outfit, a thoughtful gift, or simply want to shop small, ShopLocalQC.com is becoming a go-to resource for connecting with Charlotte’s incredible small businesses,” she says. As both the in-person markets and online directory continue to grow, business decisions will nevertheless continue to be made with creators top of mind. “When we put makers, artisans, and creators at the center, we’re not just building markets,” says Murray. “We’re building culture, connection, and opportunities for small businesses to thrive.”

info shoplocalqc.com / @shoplocalqc

The Vitality of Experience

COver 20 years of science-based wellness and longevity care in Charlotte and Lake Norman at Carolina HealthSpan Institute.

words SUNNY HUBLER / photos JAMEY PRICE

Carolina HealthSpan Institute was founded over 20 years ago with one mission: To bridge the gap between traditional medicine and the science of optimal wellness, and over that time, the skilled team has built deep relationships with generations of patients who trust the team’s expertise, discretion, and results.

“We saw too many patients struggling with fatigue, hormone imbalance, and preventable age-related decline,” Dr. Russo said. “Our vision was to create a practice where medicine meets vitality — helping patients live longer and live better with personalized, physician-led care.”

With two offices serving the greater Charlotte and Lake Norman areas, the team includes board-certified MDs, physician assistants, and wellness professionals. The practice is large enough to offer comprehensive resources, yet small enough to maintain deeply personal relationships with each patient.

“Experience and expertise matter,” Dr. Kathleen Russo says. “At Carolina HealthSpan, our commitment to personalized, physician-led care has been part of this community for more than two decades.”

Here, Dr. Russo tells us more about the practice, what a potential client could expect, and what makes Carolina HealthSpan special.

Your website emphasizes that you aim to treat ‘causes rather than symptoms.’ Why is that so integral to the practice?

Instead of masking symptoms, we look deeper. Using advanced biomarker testing, we uncover the causes of fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, or low libido. Addressing those underlying factors — hormonal, metabolic, or inflammatory — allows for true healing and lasting results.

Why do you also emphasize hormone-focused care, and what makes that approach unique?

Hormones are the body’s master regulators, influencing energy, metabolism, sleep, mood, and sexual health. Our approach goes beyond symptom management. We identify root imbalances and use evidence-based hormone optimization to restore vitality, balance, and long-term health. Hormone optimization isn’t about chasing youth — it’s about restoring function and vitality so you can thrive at every stage of life.

What can a new patient expect, and who is this practice right for?

Every new patient begins with a comprehensive evaluation,

including detailed lab testing and a physician consultation. Together, we create a personalized roadmap integrating hormone care, nutrition, supplements, peptides, IV therapies, and lifestyle strategies. The Vitality Method — our signature approach — is ideal for men and women ready to take an active role in their health, performance, and longevity.

What might someone be surprised to learn about your services?

Our services extend far beyond hormones. We offer IV nutrient therapies (including NAD+ and vitamin infusions), medical weight management, sexual health optimization, peptide therapy, gut health restoration, and advanced longevity testing. Many patients are surprised by how data-driven and holistic our care truly is.

Do you see this type of care as complementary to traditional Western medicine?

Absolutely. We collaborate with traditional healthcare models — our work enhances, not replaces, conventional

medicine. Acute care saves lives; our role is to optimize life between those moments.

What should patients know about cost or insurance? We operate independently of insurance, allowing us to deliver fully personalized care without restriction. Many patients use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or submit for partial reimbursement. Investing in proactive health often prevents the cost — physical and financial — of future illness.

Carolina HealthSpan Institute isn’t a medspa offering the latest trend; it’s a physician-led institution dedicated to the highest level of longevity and hormone medicine. “We’re proud to serve this community and to continue helping men and women redefine their health and reclaim their vitality,” Dr. Russo said. “Experience, integrity, and science are the foundation of our practice.”

info

carolinahealthspan.com / @carolinahealthspan

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANTS • DISHES • LIBATIONS

Expect the Unexpected

The owners of Rally Pickleball find a new angle with the opening of Henrietta’s.

Tucked into the heart of LoSo, Charlotte’s rapidly evolving Lower South End neighborhood, Henrietta’s is redefining what it means to dine out. The brainchild of Barrett Worthington and Meg Charity, the duo behind the social-meets-sport concept Rally Pickleball, Henrietta’s is an entirely different kind of gathering space: one that feels equal parts elegant dinner experience, buzzing cocktail bar, and neighborhood hangout.

LLocated in a beautifully renovated building the duo has held onto for two years, Henrietta’s is the result of obsessive planning, creativity, and a vision to bring something completely fresh to the area. “Opening Henrietta’s was incredibly hands-on,” says Worthington. From designing the interior to building menus and renovating the space, the Rally team had a hand in every detail. “You name it, we obsessed over it.”

The inspiration behind Henrietta’s is simple to imagine but hard to recreate. “We wanted Henrietta’s to feel like being at a friendof-a-friend’s dinner party — greeted with warm hospitality, a beautiful tablescape, a great playlist, and of course an outstanding menu,” says Charity.

Though it might seem like a departure from their pickleballpowered success with Rally, the spirit of connection runs strong through both. While Rally fosters community through active play, Henrietta’s creates it through shared plates and an atmosphere that’s both elevated and approachable. “Both are intentional about quality food and drink, and both prioritize experiences that foster connection,” says Worthington.

A Menu That Moves With the Seasons

Henrietta’s kitchen and bar menus are rooted in seasonality, a philosophy that lets ingredients speak for themselves. “When you use what’s fresh right now, you can make food that's remarkably simple, but incredibly delicious,” says Worthington. “It also gives people more reason to visit again and again — we'll never let anything sit on the menu for too long, even if we love it!“

On any given night, diners can expect bright, inventive small plates ideal for sharing. Although the menu changes regularly, simplicity and flavor are always front and center. From perfectly seared proteins to vibrant vegetables, each dish is not only a reflection of the season, but also of the team’s commitment to doing the basics exceptionally well.

The cocktail program mirrors the food menu in its ingredient-

driven approach. Think fresh-squeezed juices, house infusions, and bold flavor combinations. One of the early standouts is “Light as a Feature,” a strawberry-infused gin cocktail that’s become a signature favorite.

Even as a first-time visitor, expect to be treated like a regular when you visit. From the moment you walk in — past the glowing indoor-outdoor bar and into a space humming with playful surprises, good music, and even better vibes — Henrietta’s feels like the kind of full circle social club that’s bound to keep familiar faces returning for decades. Which is to say that your first visit won’t be your last — and that’s something worth toasting.

info henriettasclt.com @henriettasclt

SPAGHETT'S

Smoked Ricotta Caramelle

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo KARMATAUN PRODUCTIONS

Charlotte’s historic Fourth Ward welcomed Spaghett—a craft pasta and cocktail house—this summer. This new neighborhood restaurant is the latest from the collective efforts of the now Michelin-starred Irreverently Refined Hospitality, spearheaded by Sam Hart, alongside Executive Chef Kendall Moore and Beverage Director Amanda Britton.

This dish, the smoked ricotta caramelle with English peas, puts a charming type of stuffed Italian pasta center stage. Caramelle, Italian for "sweets", is a kind of pasta shaped like a wrapped candy. Filled with smoked ricotta cheese and served simply with fresh English peas, it’s a creamy, salty, subtly smoky plate that puts Spaghett’s signature talents front and center.

SOUL GASTROLOUNGE'S

Anchovy Fries

After a few years away, Soul Gastrolounge finally reopened late this summer in a spacious spot near NoDa. Shiki Brewer, formerly the executive chef of Crunkleton is the chef de cuisine, and Soul’s previous sous chef, Wanda Orice, is once again taking the helm.

A standout new small plate is the team’s anchovy “fries.” Those wary of small fish like anchovies and

sardines, bear with me here. These flaky little fresh, fried whole anchovies deliver a crisp, umami burst of flavor, balanced out by the creamy tomato-lemon tartar dipping sauce. They are absolutely delicious. And, there is nothing remotely fishy happening here. If you need yet another excuse to indulge, anchovies are both high in protein and rich in Omega-3s.

— info — soulgastrolounge.com / @soulgastro

SNEAK'S

Green Thumb

Elizabeth’s Pecan Point shopping center houses an intimate cocktail lounge with a speakeasy’s cool vibe and a one-of-a-kind drink menu. An exciting new addition to its libation offerings is their mini cocktail menu that invites guests to sample bold, inventive flavors without the fullcommitment pour.

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo courtesy CLUB TELOS — info — sneakclt.com / @sneakclt

Whether you’re embracing dry January or just want to mix a mocktail into your menu order, the Green Thumb is a deliciously verdant little sipper. Made with Seedlip Garden, fresh cucumber, honey, mint, a splash of lime, and topped with egg white foam, this drink looks just as clean as it tastes.

HOME & DESIGN

PROFILES • SPACES • FEATURED HOMES

Quiet Transformation

With this light-drenched Charlotte A-frame, Lisa Sherry creates a deeply personal retreat for the rhythm of daily life.

DDesigners talk often about transformation, but for Lisa Sherry it’s more than a concept — it’s a daily practice. When she steps into a new project, her focus is always on creating spaces that feel calm, intentional and deeply personal. This modern A-frame offered exactly that kind of opportunity.

The home is tucked into an established Charlotte neighborhood, perfectly embodies that quintessential intermingling. And when the new home owners pulled in designer Lisa Sherry of Lisa Sherry Interieurs, she knew exactly what would elevate the home to its fullest potential.

“I start each project by really listening,” Lisa says. “My clients tend to be wonderfully communicative, but it’s often the unstated things that reveal the most… how they move through a space, what they react to, what restores them.”

For this project, Lisa and her clients’ primary goal was to create a peaceful oasis within a very vibrant area of the city. The accomplished, professional couple who own the home lead full and busy lives so walking inside each day needed to feel like a welcome exhale.

Lisa has built her design career around the ethos that in the same way we shape our homes, they also shape us—a reminder that thoughtful design doesn’t just make spaces look beautiful, it changes the rhythm of daily life. It’s an idea she returns to often, and one that guides the way she creates environments that support connection and intentional living... and of course, a whole lot of unforgettable stylish flair.

The A-frame is light, bright, modern and ethereal. Occasional pops of color from the clients’ art collection add freshness and

individuality, but overall the palette is beautifully restrained. Benjamin Moore China White on the walls, white oak floors, soft area rugs for warmth. Organic materials like gesso, stone, textured fabrics and hand-woven textiles lend to the feeling of airiness, but the mix of warm and cool tones keep the home grounded.

“There’s so much energy right outside the door, but inside, the home is pure retreat,” Lisa explains. “Light plays a starring role — it pours in, shifts throughout the day and sets the tone. The whole house feels open, airy and uncluttered... like a getaway without going anywhere.”

The home, at 3,200 square feet, has an open, liveable floor plan. The pivoting front door opens into a clerestory (a high section of wall with windows above eye-level) foyer, with a study to the left and a staircase to the right. Entrants pass a jewel-box powder room before the home opens into the light-filled main living space with a cook’s kitchen, dining area and living room. The downstairs is complete with a fully realized outdoor living room with a fireplace.

“The clients wanted an outdoor living area as comfortable and stylish as the interior. I leaned into contrast — a darker ceiling, moodier palette and layered textures. It creates

a dramatic shift from the bright interior and feels wonderfully enveloping. It works year-round and truly functions as a second living room.”

Upstairs, the primary suite is conceived as a “getaway within the getaway” — tall ceilings, soft light and a feeling of sanctuary. That room in particular was a top priority: Lisa’s clients wanted a space free of visual noise, so she chose soft textures, generous proportions, and allowed for a lot of natural light.

Charlotte-based Royal Building Group built the home and architecture is by Mermans Architecture. The lighting is Visual Comfort, the bed was custom designed by Lisa, the dining table is Julian Chichester, and Lisa used Benjamin Moore China White for the walls.

This home is not only a reflection of Lisa’s signature light-filled, quietly luxurious style but a reflection of the people who live in it. By shaping a space that restores and uplifts, Lisa once again underscores her belief that good design is both art and catalyst. It reminds us that the most successful homes don’t just shelter us; they help us live more intentionally every day.

info lisasherryinterieurs.com @lisasherryinterieurs

A Winter Haven

A nature-inspired bedroom by Aguilar Design Studio brings the magic of Banner Elk’s mountain winters indoors.

Laura and Aaron Aguilar, founders of Aguilar Design Studio, know how to create a room you won’t want to leave. This one, a bedroom, is part of a whole-home design Aguilar Design Studio did for a custom-built house in the luxe Eagles Nest neighborhood in Banner Elk. This is the family's personal vacation home, and they use it as an upscale rental home as well.

“All the views from each room in this home are amazing, so incorporating all the mountain trees was a no-brainer,” Laura said. “We found the wall mural first, then designed the

room around it. Beds are covered in fun sheets, soft velvets and cozy blankets. We had custom beds made out of tree trunks as well to complete the look.”

The furnishings and lighting are from Fourhands, the bed is Woodlands Creek Log Furniture, the bedding is Pottery Barn and Limitless Walls created the mural.

info aguilardesignstudio.com @aguilar_design_studio_

INTERIOR DESIGN REMODELS CUSTOM HOMES

The Mood Room

Inside a Ro House den where texture and tone take center stage.

words SUNNY HUBLER / photo LAURA SUMRAK

For Hill Rondero, founder of interior design studio Ro House, the best interior design experience for a client is not about the journey. “I see the outcome of interior design as an emotion you're seeking,” explains Rondero. “Whatever you want to feel, your surroundings play a huge role.

When it came to this client, the homeowners wanted to elevate this newer house by updating and warming up the spaces and allowing for more space for easeful entertaining. This was achieved, in part, by adding a bar, a wine room and a screened porch with a kitchen and bar.

“This den was designed as a moody, deep-hued conversation space,” Rondero said. “While the rest of the house was designed

to be open, this den is off the entry and needed to stand on its own. Its impact is immediate as the high contrast of the fireplace mantle and the green/black walls wraps you up.”

The sheer linen drapery allows a bit of light to flow into the space to add softness. It's a warm and inviting place to have a cocktail by the fire or have some alone time and read a book. Window dressings are from The Shade Store, the chandelier is Oly Studio, and the black leather chairs are CB2.

info rohousestudio.com @rohouse.studio

Inspired By The View

A grounded and dramatic family room by Lucy and Company.

Designer Beth Keim, the creative mind behind Charlotte’s Lucy and Company, finds inspiration in unexpected places. Architecture, color combinations, textiles, pottery, and oneof-a-kind furniture pieces, she says, “can all start an entire design in my mind.”

With this striking mountain retreat, part of a four-year build in the Eagles Nest community of Banner Elk, all of those influences come together. There were a few top priorities for the client: They wanted their home’s aesthetic to give a nod to a familial passion for horses and horse racing, and wanted to honor the stunning surrounding landscape.

“[Part of] what makes this home so beautiful is the view from

one of the back decks,” Beth explains. “Because I didn’t want to take away from that view, I used warm, rich neutrals with pops of dark green, bringing all of the outside in.” The result is a space that feels both grounded and dramatic, a family room that can shift with both the light and the season.

To complete this rustic living room, Beth pulled pieces from F. Schumacher, Noir, and Four Hands, creating a space that feels thoughtfully collected and true to the family ethos.

info

lucyandcompany.com @lucyandcompany

A Home With Heart

Kingswood Custom Homes unveils a new chapter for a beloved Charlotte family.

Fwords SUNNY HUBLER / photos EMILY FOLLOWILL / portraits PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHANDA Architecture: SCHRADER DESIGN / Interiors: LOUISE LEEKE and SHANNON BOWMAN INTERIORS

For the Olsen family of five, building a forever home was never just about square footage or style. It was about creating a place that reflects who they are — as parents, as partners, and as a family committed to making a difference. Having worked with Kingswood Custom Homes on four homes over the years, the Olsens’ latest build represents not only a new chapter in their personal lives, but also a continuation of a trusted partnership that has grown alongside them.

Since 2013, when they founded the Heartest Yard Foundation, the Olsens have dedicated themselves to supporting families facing congenital heart disease. That same heartforward philosophy carries into the way they design and live

in their own spaces. As their family grew and their three teenagers’ lives became busier, their vision for this home was clear: it needed to be a place of comfort, gathering, generosity and longevity — a true hub for both everyday life and meaningful connection.

Designed in collaboration with architect Schrader Design and featuring interiors by Louise Leeke of Kingswood alongside Shannon Bowman Interiors, the 6,700-square-foot residence balances modern lines with timeless warmth. The transitional aesthetic blends clean architectural simplicity with traditional craftsmanship, resulting in a home that feels elevated yet entirely livable.

A palette of muted neutrals sets a calm, cohesive tone throughout. Organic textures soften contemporary lines, while thoughtful contrasts add depth. Charcoal and graphite hues envelop the study and powder room in cozy sophistication. In the kitchen and dining areas, lighter stone finishes and layered neutrals create an inviting backdrop for family dinners and celebrations. Warm metals — aged bronze, brushed brass and soft gold — appear intentionally, offering subtle moments of glow.

Every space was designed with purpose, rooted in how the Olsens truly live. The multi-zone kitchen anchors the main level, seamlessly supporting everything from quick breakfasts before school to larger gatherings with friends, foundation supporters and extended family. Tailored furnishings and richly layered textiles — woven patterns, velvets, performance fabrics and textured wallcoverings — lend a sense of relaxed luxury without sacrificing durability.

Functionality was just as important as beauty. A spacious basement lounge gives the teens a retreat of their own, perfect for movies and downtime. An indoor batting cage reflects the family’s shared love of sports, while multiple gathering areas encourage connection across generations. With five bedrooms, nine baths and expansive indoor-outdoor living areas, the home is designed to flex effortlessly between intimate family moments and larger-scale entertaining.

Throughout the process, Kingswood remained more than just the builder — they were collaborators who understood the Olsens’ evolving needs and values. Having walked alongside the family through four other home projects, the team brought a deep familiarity that made the design process feel intuitive and personal.

Ultimately, this residence is not just another thoughtfully executed custom build. It is a reflection of a family that leads with heart — in their philanthropy, in their parenting and in the way they open their doors to others. The home stands as a testament to growth over time: a place shaped by experience, strengthened by partnership and designed to hold the most meaningful moments for years to come.

info kingswoodhomes.com / @kingswoodhomes

A Quiet Masterpiece

Exploring South Carolina's best kept secret, Santee Cooper Country.

TThere are places that show off, and then there are places that wait patiently to be discovered. Santee Cooper Country falls squarely into the second category. Tucked between Columbia and Charleston, anchored by two vast lakes and stitched together by rivers, forests, and history, this part of South Carolina feels wildly underrated. It is calm without being sleepy, historic without feeling staged, and beautiful in a way that sneaks up on you.

The scenery alone is reason enough to visit. Bald cypress rising from still water, long stretches of open lake, quiet backroads that seem to go on forever. But what really sets Santee Cooper Country apart is how much is layered into it. Small but lively towns like Sumter. Deep, tangible history. Places of true quiet like Mepkin Abbey. And then there is the water, from Lake Marion to Lake Moultrie, down through the locks and all the way to Charleston, with a ferry ride to Daniel Island waiting at the end.

This is the kind of place that rewards a slow weekend. Here’s how to do it right.

A Weekend in Santee Cooper Country

Santee State Park and Lake Marion

Start at Santee State Park along the shores of Lake Marion. This is one of the best ways to ease into the area. The park is quiet and spacious, with trails through the pines, boardwalks over the water, and wide open lake views that immediately slow your pace.

The waterfront cabins here are worth planning around. Waking up right on the lake changes the entire rhythm of the trip. Mornings feel calmer, and evenings stretch longer as the light fades across the water.

Lake Marion: Wildlife and Big Water

Lake Marion feels vast and alive. It is one of the best places in the state to experience South Carolina’s wildlife up close. Osprey circle overhead, bald eagles perch in tall trees near the

shoreline, and deer move quietly through the woods at dawn and dusk. The lake is especially known for its fishing, drawing anglers from all over for catfish, bass, and crappie.

Even if you are not fishing, the constant motion of birds, the stillness of the cypress, and the open water make it feel wild in a way that is hard to find elsewhere. Spending time here feels immersive, like stepping into a living ecosystem rather than just visiting a lake.

Cypress Gardens in Moncks Corner

From there, head toward Moncks Corner and Cypress Gardens. This place feels almost unreal. Black water, towering cypress trees, wooden bridges, and reflections so perfect they stop you in your tracks. It has served as a filming location for movies like The Patriot and The Notebook, and once you are there, it makes complete sense.

Take the boat ride through the swamp and walk the paths slowly. Cypress Gardens captures the Lowcountry at its most iconic and most peaceful.

Mepkin Abbey

Mepkin Abbey might be the most peaceful place in all of South Carolina. Set along the Cooper River, the monastery grounds are quiet, expansive, and deeply calming. You do not need to be religious to feel the impact of this place.

Walk the gardens, enjoy the live oaks, or sit by the river and do nothing at all. The stillness here feels intentional, and it has a way of resetting you without effort.

Sumter: Food, Drinks, and Small Town Energy

Sumter is a great stop and a perfect example of what makes Santee Cooper Country work so well. Downtown feels active without being overwhelming, especially in the evenings.

Dinner at Hamptons is a must, particularly if the weather allows for outdoor seating. It has that relaxed, lingering dinner energy that makes you want to stay a little longer. For beer, Sumter Brewing Company is the local favorite and an easy place to unwind. If cocktails are more your speed, Sidebar on Main is the spot. It feels polished but comfortable, with well made drinks and a relaxed atmosphere that fits Sumter perfectly.

History You Can Walk Through

History is woven into this region in a very real way. Fort Watson and the nearby Indian Mound are especially worth visiting. During the Revolutionary War, British forces used the mound as a fortified position. Patriot troops eventually forced their surrender by building a tower tall enough to fire down into the fort, a clever and decisive move.

Nearby is the gravesite of Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox. Known for his guerrilla tactics and deep knowledge of the swamps and rivers, Marion became a legend for how he used this landscape to his advantage. Standing there, it is easy to imagine how critical this region once was.

Lake Moultrie and Fish Camp Life

Lake Moultrie has a different feel than Lake Marion. It is deeply tied to fishing culture. This is where fish camps still matter, and Black’s Fish Camp is the classic stop.

Fried fish, hushpuppies, cold drinks, and stories that feel like they have been told a hundred times before. It is casual, local, and exactly what you want after a day on the water.

On the Water to Charleston

One of the most unique experiences in Santee Cooper Country is traveling by water. The lock system that connects Lake Marion to Lake Moultrie and then down the Cooper River toward Charleston is slow, scenic, and deeply satisfying.

Closer to the coast, the Daniel Island Ferry adds another layer of charm. It feels simple and timeless, a reminder that water once connected everything here long before highways did.

Golf Instead of Fishing

If fishing is not your thing, the golf in this area is excellent. Lake Marion Golf Course and Wyboo Golf Course in Manning both offer peaceful courses surrounded by water and natural scenery. It is the kind of golf that feels unhurried, where the setting matters just as much as the game.

Santee Cooper Country does not demand attention. It earns it quietly. And once you spend time here, it becomes the kind of place you start recommending to friends with a simple sentence: you really should go see this place.

info santeecoopercountry.org / @santeecoopercountry

A Modern Retreat in Asheville’s Heart

CThe Flat Iron Hotel blends sleek design with a prime location.

words SUNNY HUBLER / photos ANDY FRAME

Conveniently tucked in the heart of downtown Asheville, the Flat Iron Hotel offers guests a stylish, contemporary retreat that balances urban energy with mountain charm. With just 22 rooms, the boutique property feels intimate without being cramped, creating a sanctuary where modern design meets warm hospitality.

Part of the Indigo Road Hospitality group, Flat Iron reflects the brand’s signature approach: boutique hotels that feel personal, rooted in their communities, and designed with a keen eye for detail. Originally renovated in 2022, the Flat Iron blends classic Asheville architecture with a fresh, modern aesthetic. The team behind the redesign focused on comfort and functionality, ensuring each guest room feels open, calm,

and effortlessly stylish. Rooms feature plush bedding, smart lighting, and minimalist furnishings that create a serene backdrop after a day exploring the city. For those seeking extra privacy or a longer stay, the hotel’s spacious suite options offer separate living areas, kitchenettes, and small balconies overlooking downtown.

Amenities are designed for convenience and comfort: a light breakfast service, curated city guides, in-room coffee, and thoughtful touches like locally sourced bath products. Guests are encouraged to linger in the communal lounge, dine at Italian-inspired restaurant Luminosa on the property, sip a cocktail at the rooftop bar, or grab a book and relax in one of the cozy nooks that capture Asheville’s artistic spirit.

Flat Iron’s central location is excellent for experiencing Asheville’s eclectic mix of culture and nature. Start with coffee and pastries at High Five Coffee, just a few blocks away, and for dinner, Cúrate offers Spanish tapas in a buzzy setting and The Marketplace showcases seasonal cooking. Grab a cocktail at Sovereign Remedies, or end your evening with dessert at Old Europe Pastries. Downtown shopping is a breeze; Grove Arcade offers boutiques, craft shops, and cafés nestled inside an architectural gem and there are funky, fun stores nestled all throughout the downtown square.

For outdoor adventures, hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway for

access to breathtaking scenic drives and hiking trails, including Craggy Gardens and the Pinnacle Trail, both within a short drive. Art enthusiasts should not miss the River Arts District, where working studios showcase painting, ceramics, and sculpture, while local galleries invite visitors to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. RAD has continued to rebuild after Hurricane Helene, and while the area has made remarkable strides, local artists still need your support.

Whether the goal is a foodie weekend, to see a show, or simply have yourself a mountain adventure, the Flat Iron Hotel delivers a locally-rooted experience in Asheville that feels entirely its own.

info ashevilleflatiron.com / @theflatironavl

Family Adventures

Begin in McDowell

Wilkes County Wine Country

North Carolina’s most underrated escape for wine connoisseurs and nature lovers.

words JP GRICE / photos JP GRICE or BRETT BARTER

II did not expect Wilkes County to be this good. Tucked just east of the High Country, it is a part of North Carolina that somehow flies under the radar, even though it has everything going for it: Rolling hills, vineyard views, mountain backdrops, and a pace that feels refreshingly unhurried. At just about an hour and a half from Charlotte, it feels like a true getaway without a long drive. It is quieter than Boone and less crowded than the Blue Ridge Parkway hotspots. What really won me over was the wine country. You can spend an entire weekend here traveling from one winery to the next without ever feeling rushed. Each one has its own personality, its own views, and its own style. Add in a couple of great places to stay and scenery that makes you want to slow down, and it's clear why this is the kind of trip you start recommending to friends before you even get home.

Where to Stay

There are two places I would stay again in a heartbeat. Roaring River Vineyards offers on-site lodging right along the river, and it might be one of the most relaxing places to wake up in Wilkes County. You can hear the water flowing in the morning, open the windows to fresh air, and ease into the day without a plan. From there, it is an easy walk next door to the winery for tastings, snacks, and a glass of wine whenever the mood strikes. If you want big views and a little more privacy, Skyline Lodge is incredible. This log cabin sits on top of a mountain and looks out over Wilkes County with sweeping, expansive views. After a full day of tasting, sitting outside with a glass of wine and watching the light fade across the hills completed the experience.

A place where mind, body and spirit

Perfectly nestled between Blowing Rock and Boone, with the infamous Blue Ridge Parkway, and Appalachian Ski Mountain nearby, this idyllic chalet is yours to slow down, reconnect, restore, and explore. Escape to Moon-A-Chalet for an unforgettable retreat in the heart of the High Country.

To book your stay, scan the QR code or visit livestoried.com/rentals

Piccione Vineyards

Piccione Vineyards is the perfect place to start the weekend. The deck is where you want to be here. The views are unreal, with rolling vineyards stretching out below and mountains quietly framing the horizon. They focus on European-style wines, especially Italian varietals, with a thoughtful mix of reds and whites. Sitting on the deck with a glass in hand, it is easy to lose track of time. This is one of those places where the setting and the wine work together so well that you find yourself ordering another pour just to stay a little longer.

Raffaldini Vineyards

Raffaldini is the winery everyone talks about, and once you visit, you quickly understand. The Italian villa-style building sits high on a hill, and the views from the patio are some of the best in the region. Raffladini specializes in Italian wines, particularly bold reds like Sangiovese and Montepulciano. The tasting experience feels polished but still approachable. Sitting outside with a glass of red, overlooking the vineyards, it genuinely feels like you have been transported somewhere far from North Carolina.

Sotrio Vineyards

Sotrio Vineyards has a totally different energy, and I loved it for that. It has a laid-back feel that makes you want to relax and settle in. The deck becomes the natural gathering spot, especially on a sunny afternoon, and it feels more like hanging out at a friend’s place.

Along with wine, Sotrio serves beer, which makes it an easy stop for groups with mixed tastes. Be sure to say hi to Sweet Baby June while you are there. She is the owner’s pup and even has a wine named after her, perfectly on brand for the place. Sotrio is the kind of spot where one drink easily turns into two.

Castello Barone Vineyards

Castello Barone feels deeply connected to the land around it. The setting is pastoral and open, surrounded by farmland that gives the whole place a calm, grounded feel. It is less about spectacle and more about space, light, and breathing room. The winery building stands out immediately, finished in rich Italian red, white, and green tones that nod directly to its roots. Inside, the light is incredible, filling the space and playing off the tall ceilings in a way that feels warm and expansive. They focus on European-inspired wines, especially reds that feel expressive and well made. Sitting here with a glass in hand, looking out over the fields, it feels honest and unpretentious in the best way.

Roaring River Vineyards

Roaring River Vineyards might be the most versatile stop of the entire weekend. If the weather is nice, sitting by the river with a glass of wine and a charcuterie board is hard to beat. If it is cold outside, heading indoors and grabbing a seat by the fire is just as good. Their wines cover a wide range, from crisp whites to smooth, easy-drinking reds, making it a great place to explore different styles. If you are staying on-site, this is where the weekend really sinks in.

What made Wilkes County so memorable for me was how genuine it felt—nothing felt forced or overproduced. The wineries are beautiful but approachable, the views are stunning without being overcrowded, and every stop feels like it has its own personality. Plus, the people we met along the way were just wonderful. This is the kind of weekend that actually feels like a true escape. If you love great wine, incredible scenery, and places that still feel a little under the radar, Wilkes County is a near-perfect trip.

wilkescountytourism.com / @visitwilkesnc

New Year, New Horizons

A quick guide to beginning the year mindfully— through travel, movement, nature, and community.

Ewords

SUNNY HUBLER / photos courtesy BUSINESSES or TDA or JAMEY PRICE or JP GRICE

Each new year, there’s a collective gentle (or not so gentle) nudge toward reinvention. But maybe you simply need to catch your breath first, clearing space for the changes that really call to you or simply remembering to make time for the things that already work well for you. Luckily for Charlotteans, you don’t have to travel far or spend much to find something that begins to clear the mental clutter, reconnects you with your body, or simply makes wintertime feel more tolerable.

ESCAPE FOR A LONG WEEKEND

Sometimes the best way to jumpstart a new mindset is to physically step out of your routine. Within a few hours of the Queen City, you’ll find anything from mountain hideaways to coastal retreats and culture-filled towns.

Highlands, NC

If your version of self-care leans luxurious, Highlands delivers. The Old Edwards Inn & Spa offers fireplaces, mineral pools, and slow-living charm — the perfect base for waterfall hikes, art galleries, and memorable meals at Madison’s or The Log Cabin.

Blowing Rock, NC

Like a winter postcard come to life: Blowing Rock offers you a chance to curl up at the lakeside Chetola Resort and eat at Timberlake's, wander Main Street’s boutiques, and take a snowy stroll around the trails at Moses Cone Memorial Park on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway.

Asheville, NC

For a mix of mountain beauty and culinary adventure, Asheville is a perennial favorite. Pair a stay at Grove Park Inn or a downtown, walkable hotel with brewery hopping, farm-to-table meals (Curate and Sovereign Remedies never disappoint), and a visit to the Biltmore.

Winston-Salem, NC

Winston is a culture-rich city so close to Charlotte that you can easily make it a day trip (although we suggest you stay for maximum exploration). Explore Old Salem, tour SECCA’s galleries, settle in for dinner at Mozelle’s, and call the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel homebase. I’ve stayed at a dozen Kimptons and this is an easy favorite: It’s a truly unique bit of architectural history wrapped in perfect boutique hospitality.

Kiawah Island, SC

Nature lovers and golf enthusiasts alike appreciate Kiawah’s quiet marshes, wildlife, and protected dunes. Its “world of its own” atmosphere makes it ideal for anyone craving true calm.

RESTORE YOUR BODY (AND MIND)

Whether you need deep relaxation or a tweak to your wellness routine, check out Charlotte’s spa scene. There are classic day spas, but also some newer additions offering more wellnessfocused services, like infrared saunas, cold plunges, and more.

Woodhouse Spa

Located in SouthPark’s Piedmont Town Center, Woodhouse blends luxury treatments with a serene design aesthetic. Their couples massages and body treatments are standout offerings.

Sauna House Charlotte

Reimagined as Sauna House, this historic space's openness has now become something warmer—an inviting, light-filled setting designed for wellness, and a shared sense of community.

Mood House

With two locations, one in Dilworth and one in Oakhurst, this modern massage and sauna studio offers a breezy PalmSprings-inspired design and some of Charlotte’s best massage practitioners.

GET OUTSIDE

Particularly in the winter, with shorter days and unpredictable weather, it can feel easy to retreat indoors. But nature is one of the greatest free wellness tools, even in January. Even a quick greenway walk can shift your mood, but if you’re craving a fullday reset, try these outdoor escapes.

Lake James

Take the 3.6 mile Mills Creek Trail, which traverses the easternmost peninsula of the Paddy’s Creek Area in Lake James State Park, for a moderate hike with views of the lake. If you have time, stop at Fonta Flora’s Whippoorwill Farm in Nebo to wet your whistle afterward.

Morrow Mountain

Morrow Mountain is one of the Piedmont's best-kept secrets. Start at the Mountain Loop Trailhead for jaw-dropping, expansive views of the region. From there, take the Morrow Mountain Trail to the Short Loop for a five-ish mile moderate hike that feels like it belongs in Western NC.

Stone Mountain

The Stone Mountain Loop Trail has everything a Carolina day hiker could ask for: a 2,305-foot overlook, cascading falls, and one of the most intensive natural quad/glute workouts found on the East Coast. Travel clockwise for an intense uphill on trails

and intense downhill on wooden stairs, or move counter-clockwise for an intense downhill on trails and uphill on wooden stairs.

Great Smokies

If you’ve never been to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, make this your year. The Smokies are one of the most visited national parks in the country (right behind the Blue Ridge Parkway) and for good reason. The park is a bit of a hike (excuse the pun) from Charlotte, so you’ll want to make this an overnight trip, via a backpacking site, car camping site, or hotel in Bryson City, which we prefer over Gatlinburg by a mile.

TRY A NEW HOBBY

Sometimes the best reset comes from shaking up your routine entirely. Charlotte has a growing roster of activities that blend creativity, wellness, and novelty — the perfect antidote to winter monotony.

Charlotte Indoor Pickleball Club

Pickleball is officially the city’s fastest-growing rec sport. Whether you’re competitive or simply curious, the new indoor club offers lessons, open play, and league nights for all levels.

Charlotte Run Clubs

Get moving and meet some new friends. Groups like NoDa Run

Club, South End Run Club and Run CLT host weekly meetups that welcome all paces and experience levels.

The Pocket-Size Book Club

If you enjoy reading, this is a chance to discuss novels with fewer than 300 pages. Pocket-Size Book Club meets at the Matthews branch of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library on the third Wednesday of each month, and Charlotte Mecklenburg’s library system hosts book clubs of various genres at branches across the region.

AR Workshop Charlotte

Tap into your creative side with a crafting workshop — from painting to knitting — and leave with a handmade piece that doubles as a souvenir of your self-care season.

MOVE YOUR BODY

Exercise not only does wonders for physical health, but elevating your heart rate can also improve mood and sharpen the mind. Stay active by enrolling in regular fitness classes, picking up a new active hobby, or just working regular gym visits into your weekly routine.

Rumble Boxing

Rumble Boxing offers full body, boxing-inspired group fitness classes that will get your heart pumping and muscles toned.

Charlotte Trail Guide

From the CRVA, the CLT Trail Guide is an interactive trail platform that highlights area walking, running and biking trails with local businesses, art installations and more. Get into the city on foot for a little extra winter sunlight therapy.

Inner Peaks

Inner Peaks is Charlotte’s only indoor rock climbing gym. An array of auto-belays and bouldering walls cater to solo, experienced, and novice climbers, while 40-foot top rope and lead walls beckon to the experienced climber.

Hustle House

Hustle House infuses its workout classes with a combination of personal training and group fitness to give hustlers the individual attention they need to excel and the drive they need to push harder. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is the bedrock of Hustle House workouts, whether it’s strength day or conditioning day.

INVEST IN COMMUNITY

Sometimes, during these chilly months and shorter days, what you really need is connection. Boost your brain power and make a new friend or two by joining a local group or volunteering, and give yourself something to look forward to beyond the workday.

The Spoke Easy Biking Club

The Spoke Easy is a relaxed, welcoming bike shop/bar/ gathering space in the Elizabeth neighborhood. It hosts weekly BMX rides, as well as weekly easy urban rides that start and end at the shop and are open to anyone with access to a bicycle.

Join a book club

Take a peek at your local public library’s event calendar, and you’re sure to find at least one active book club. Meet your neighbors, read something new, and exercise your brain over monthly book discussions while supporting your local public library.

Volunteer locally

Charlotte has no shortage of opportunities to give back: Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, Classroom Central, Project Outpour and Charlotte Rescue Mission are just a few local organizations that welcome volunteers on a onetime or recurring basis. Platforms like Share Charlotte and VolunteerMatch also maintain updated calendars of volunteer needs, making it easy to find something that fits your schedule and interests.

info qcexclusive.com @qcexclusive

A Guide To Staying Well

Hotels and B&Bs across the Carolinas worth planning a trip around in the new year.

TThe start of a new year always makes me think about getting out of my routine. Maybe it’s your New Year’s resolution to travel more in 2026, or maybe you’re just ready for a change of scenery, even if it’s close to home. I tend to look for places that feel good to arrive at and easy to settle into. Sometimes that means a hotel with great service and a strong sense of place. Other times it’s an Airbnb where you can slow down and actually stay put for a while. These are the places I usually recommend to friends when they ask where to stay, organized by how far you want to go and how much effort you want the trip to take.

Charlotte Staycations

If you want to stay in Charlotte but still feel like you’re on a trip, there are a few places that consistently deliver. The Ritz-

Carlton Uptown is the obvious choice when you want a polished experience without leaving the city. The spa alone can fill a morning, and between Bar Cocoa and The Punch Room upstairs, it’s easy to build a full weekend around the hotel. It’s the kind of place where you don’t feel rushed to go anywhere else.

The Kimpton Tryon Park has a more relaxed, social energy. Merchant + Trade is one of the best rooftop bars in the city, and Angeline’s downstairs makes dinner simple when you don’t want to leave the building. Being close to the Blumenthal also makes it an easy pick if you’re planning a show or performance.

The Ivey’s Hotel is where I send people who want something quieter. The rooms feel personal, the Library Lounge is a nice bonus, and it’s one of the few Uptown hotels where staying in actually feels appealing. If your ideal night includes room service and an early bedtime, this is usually the right fit.

The Duke Mansion offers something completely different. It feels more like staying at someone’s beautiful home than a traditional hotel. The gardens are peaceful, breakfast is included, and everything about it encourages you to slow down. It’s a good reminder that you don’t have to go far to feel removed.

North Carolina Stays

The mountains are always an easy recommendation. In Asheville, the Grand Bohemian sits right near the Biltmore and feels warm and comfortable without being boring. Red Stag Grill is reliable for both dinner and brunch, and the location makes it easy to mix time in town with drives along the Parkway or a visit to Biltmore.

Restoration Asheville is a good option if you like having more space. The rooms feel more like apartments, which works well for longer stays or trips where you want to unpack. Being downtown makes it easy to walk everywhere without much planning and the rooftop is so pretty..

The Umstead near Raleigh is one of those places that always feels worth it. The grounds are quiet, the spa is consistently excellent, and Herons alone is reason enough

to stay. It’s a good choice if you want something refined but not stiff.

Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock is flexible in the best way. Whether you stay in the lodge, a condo, or the Bob Timberlake Inn, it’s easy to make the trip fit your group. Being close to Grandfather Mountain makes it a strong option if hiking or time outdoors is part of the plan.

Boone’s Horton Hotel is a favorite if you want to be right in town. It’s walkable, well designed, and feels like it belongs there. In Pinehurst, The Carolina is still the anchor. The porches, the grounds, and the history all do a lot of the work for you, even if you never set foot on a golf course.

For the coast, Trailborn in Wilmington is an easy pick. It feels fresh and casual and works well as a base for exploring both downtown and the beach. On the Outer Banks, the Sanderling is the place I come back to. It’s calm, comfortable, and set between the ocean and the sound, which gives you options depending on the day.

North Carolina also has some great Airbnbs. Moon-AChalet in Blowing Rock is one I recommend often because it actually feels like a place you want to hang out. Little Mountain A-Frame in Old Fort has a similar feel and with the waterfalls and trails nearby it's a nature lover's spot.

The Appalachian A-Frame in Sugar Grove and the Out of Bounds Retreat A-Frames in Boone both strike a good balance between cozy and intentional. Pisgah Domes are a completely different experience and worth it if you want the stay itself to feel memorable.

Earth and Sky Dwellings near Asheville are ideal if you want unique stays with incredible views. The Barn at Edenwood stands out for its character, especially the soaking tub upstairs. Kindling Falls is another solid option if you have a big group and being near water is important but this one went viral on the gram, so book your stay well in advance. And the 1933 Little Red Caboose in Andrews is just plain fun and surprisingly comfortable. If you're looking for a truly unique

spot for a group the Old Church in Pinehurst is massive and a one-of-a-kind stay.

South Carolina Stays

Charleston has no shortage of good places to stay, but a few always rise to the top. Hotel Bennett feels grand without being overbearing, and their pink champagne bar has become a destination on its own. It’s worth planning an evening around it.

The Dewberry balances modern design with history in a way that feels natural. The Palmetto is the perfect location and a you can order a darn good espresso martini at the bar.

The Spectator leans more traditional, with thoughtful service and rooms that feel special without being flashy. Restoration Charleston works well if you want more space and the ability to settle in for a few days.

Hotel Emeline and The Ryder bring a more relaxed energy. Emeline feels sophisticated and comfortable, while The Ryder is trendier and more social, especially around the pool. Two Meeting Street Inn is quieter and more personal, a good option if you want something calm and refined near the Battery.

Upstate South Carolina has some great options too. The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville brings bold design to the Reedy River area and works well if you want to be near downtown without feeling right in it. The Old Soul Treehouse in Waterloo

is a completely different experience, tucked into the woods and best for people who want quiet and privacy. The Forestry House in Travelers Rest is another easy recommendation if hiking and time outdoors are part of the trip.

What I like about all of these places is that they feel intentional without trying too hard. Some are better for slowing down, others for getting out and exploring, and a few manage to do both. If traveling more in 2026 is on your list, you don’t have to start with something big. Sometimes the right place to stay is close by!

info discoverthecarolinas.com / @discoverthecarolinas

Skiing The Southeast

Our guide to some of the very best winter destinations in North Carolina and beyond.

words JP GRICE / photos courtesy SKI RESORTS

By January, winter is firmly settled in the mountains of western North Carolina. The ski areas are running consistently, snowmaking is dialed in, and getting on the slopes feels less like a special occasion and more like a solid plan for the weekend. Skiing here works best when you match the mountain to the kind of day you want. Some places are great for long laps, others for tubing and an easy afternoon, and a few are worth a longer drive if you want more snow and more terrain. These are the mountains I usually recommend to friends, all realistic options from Charlotte that make skiing feel accessible instead of intimidating.

Beech Mountain

Beech Mountain sits just above the town of Banner Elk and is usually right around a two hour drive from Charlotte. Its elevation helps it average between 70 and 80 inches of snowfall annually, which often translates into dependable winter conditions. The resort features 17 slopes across close to 100 acres, served by about eight chairlifts. The terrain covers a wide range of abilities, and multiple terrain parks make it a popular choice for snowboarders and freestyle

skiers. Snow tubing is also available and easy to work into the day.

Beech has one of the stronger après scenes in the region. Beech Mountain Brewing Company is located right on the mountain and is a natural place to gather once skiing wraps up. The 5506’ Skybar near the summit is another popular stop, especially later in the afternoon. Staying nearby makes it easy to enjoy the mountain without feeling like you need to rush off at the end of the day.

Appalachian Ski Mountain

Appalachian Ski Mountain is just outside Blowing Rock and is often under a two hour drive from Charlotte, making it one of the most accessible ski trips in the state. The mountain has around a dozen slopes laid out in a compact footprint that allows you to get a lot of runs in without much downtime. Snowmaking plays a major role here and helps maintain consistent conditions throughout the season. Several chairlifts serve the mountain, and two terrain parks provide options for freestyle skiers and riders. Night skiing is one of App Ski’s defining features and makes it a

strong choice for shorter trips or evening sessions. There is also a snow tubing area, which works well for families or mixed groups. Dining is centered around the base lodge, while Blowing Rock is only a few minutes away if you want to head into town afterward.

Cataloochee

Cataloochee is located near Maggie Valley and is generally about a two hour drive from Charlotte. The mountain offers around 18 trails supported by multiple chairlifts, with terrain that suits beginners and casual skiers especially well. Snowmaking is essential here and keeps the slopes operating consistently throughout the winter. There is also a terrain park, though the overall pace of the mountain remains relaxed. Snow tubing is one of Cataloochee’s main draws and operates in its own dedicated area, making it easy to mix skiing with something more laid back. The base lodge serves familiar ski-day food, and Maggie Valley is close if you want additional dining options. This is often where I send people who want a low-pressure day on the snow and its a great ski mountain for beginners.

Hatley Pointe is near Mars Hill, north of Asheville, and is typically about a two hour drive from Charlotte. The mountain offers roughly 15 to 23 trails across more than 50 skiable acres, with terrain well suited for beginner and intermediate skiers. Three chairlifts serve the slopes, and this resort has some of the best snowmaking equipment so it can keep conditions wonderful. There is also a terrain park and a dedicated snow tubing area, making the mountain accessible for a wide range of visitors.

What makes Hatley Pointe stand out is the overall experience. The resort has clearly been brought back to life with intention, and it shows in everything from the food to the atmosphere. On-mountain dining is genuinely good, the après scene feels welcoming without being forced, and the staff takes pride in what they’re building. The team has also done a great job of building in public, sharing the process and inviting people along as the mountain returned. The result is a ski resort that feels thoughtful, well run, and enjoyable from start to finish. We're looking forward to watching the progress at this resort as they become an area staple.

Sugar Mountain

Sugar Mountain sits near Banner Elk and is typically about a two hour drive from Charlotte. The mountain offers roughly 20 trails across more than 115 skiable acres, with a vertical drop of around 1,200 feet. It averages close to 50 inches of natural snowfall each year and supports that with a strong snowmaking system. Seven chairlifts serve the terrain, including high-speed lifts, and the trail mix leans toward intermediate skiing with a few black and double black runs for those looking for more challenge. A terrain park operates throughout the season.

Sugar is a good option if you want variety without overthinking the day. There is a dedicated snow tubing area as well as an ice skating rink, which makes it easy for groups to split time between activities. Food on the mountain is straightforward and reliable, with a base-area cafeteria and the Last Run Lounge, where many people end up for drinks or a late lunch. Banner Elk and nearby towns are close if you want more dining options after skiing.

Hawksnest Adventures

Just down the road from many of these ski areas is HawksNest Adventures in Seven Devils, a winter

destination that deserves its own shout-out if you’re thinking beyond skiing and snowboarding. It’s about two hours from Charlotte and sits in a scenic stretch of the High Country that’s become known for accessible winter fun. The snow tubing experience here feels more expansive than most because HawksNest has built its tubing park with multiple lanes and elevations, so you’re not waiting in long lines or stuck in one short chute. You ride up on a lift-style surface conveyor, which feels like a fun bonus rather than a necessity, and then you can choose your lane — wider, narrower, steeper, or gentler — depending on how fast you want your run to be. The kids typically choose the faster lanes, and the adults are usually right behind them.

Tube World

Tube World in Maggie Valley is another solid option if snow tubing is the main goal of the day. Located near Cataloochee and about a two hour drive from Charlotte, it’s easy to pair with skiing or make the destination on its own. Tube World operates multiple tubing lanes with varying speeds, which helps keep things moving and lets groups spread out. A lift system carries riders back to the top, so there’s no long walk uphill between runs, and sessions are organized enough that it never feels chaotic, even on busy winter weekends.

Snowshoe

Snowshoe Mountain is in West Virginia and takes about five hours from Charlotte, but the scale becomes obvious as soon as you arrive. The resort averages roughly 180 inches of snowfall each year and spans close to 250 skiable acres. Nearly 60 trails are served by around 14 chairlifts, including high-speed options. Multiple terrain parks and extensive night skiing, especially in the Silver Creek area, give the mountain depth and variety.

Snow tubing is available, but skiing tends to anchor the day. One of Snowshoe’s biggest strengths is its mountaintop village, where restaurants, bars, and casual gathering spots are all within walking distance. It’s easy to ski all day and transition straight into dinner or drinks without leaving the resort.

Canaan Valley

Canaan Valley Resort is near the towns of Davis and Thomas in West Virginia and is about a five to five and a half hour drive from Charlotte. The resort averages roughly 75 to 80 inches of snowfall per year and features dozens of trails served by six chairlifts. The terrain favors beginner and intermediate skiers and works well for longer stays.

Snow tubing is a major part of the experience here, along with ice skating and other winter activities. Dining and après skiing

are centered around the lodge, with nearby towns offering additional places to eat and drink. Canaan Valley works well when you want skiing to be part of a broader winter weekend.

Timberline

Timberline Mountain is located near Davis, West Virginia, and is typically about a five to five and a half hour drive from Charlotte. The mountain averages close to 200 inches of snowfall annually, making it one of the snowiest destinations within driving distance of the Carolinas. More than 20 trails offer longer, continuous runs that feel more expansive than most Southern ski areas. Four chairlifts, including a highspeed six-pack, serve the slopes, and terrain parks add variety for freestyle skiers and riders.

Snow tubing is available here as well, though skiing remains the focus. Après options are simple and relaxed, with nearby spots in Davis providing an easy way to end the day.

Skiing in western North Carolina and nearby West Virginia doesn’t require a big plan or perfect timing. When most of these mountains are only several hours away, it’s easier to say yes to a winter day outside. Pick the mountain that fits your pace, check the forecast, and go. Winter is already doing its part.

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