Spring is here and it’s time to freshen up our décor, sweep out the winter cobwebs and bring in the light just in time for the warmer weather. Many of us use this time to swap out our linens and pillows, opting for a brighter color palette and warmer weather fabrics.
For our Renovation of the Year, the homeowners of a Garden District house needed to do much more than a spring facelift. The project needed rethinking, reconfiguring and reconstructing it to its original glory. The reno also included loving details that would make it friendly and homey for modern living. It was a true labor of love, with classic design and attention to detail that made it an easy choice for our cover.
We also have a gorgeous, historic condo project located Uptown at St. Elizabeth’s that is both contemporary, but also classic. The four-story unit is now a gathering space for a family, with room for everyone’s needs. Details and design make this a truly cozy home for friends and family.
Our annual spring kitchen design feature highlights some of our favorite projects in a variety of styles, sizes and color. Each embodies both the ideas of form and function, with dreamy designs for cooking, gathering and entertaining.
Whether you are busy spring cleaning, planning ahead for get-togethers or getting ideas for gardens and outdoor spaces, we have resources to inspire and educate throughout this issue, from recipes to style, organizing and trend watching.
Happy spring! It’s the perfect time to fling open your doors and take advantage of your front porch, backyard, patio or balcony, invite a few friends or family members over to help in the kitchen and relax while the sun is shining, and the days aren’t too hot. Enjoy!
Editorial
Editor Ashley McLellan
Creative Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo
Style Editor Andy Myer
Web Editor Kelly Massicot
Contributing Writers Jenny Adams, Lee Cutrone, Amy Gabriel, Rebecca Friedman, Andy Myer, Margaret Zainey Roux, Melanie
Warner Spencer
Copy Editor Liz Clearman
Advertising
Senior Account Executive
Brooke Genusa, Brooke@MyNewOrleans.com
Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Kate Henry, Kate@MyNewOrleans.com
Account Director Meggie Schmidt
Senior Account Executive Erin Chiartano
Marketing
Marketing Manager Haley Nash
Video Media Producer Mallary Wolfe
Sponsored Content Coordinator
Jeremy Marshall
Renaissance Publishing
Production
Manager Rosa Balaguer Arostegui
Senior Designer Ashley Bravata
Designer Czarlyn Ria Trinidad
Circulation
Distribution John Holzer
Administration
Office Manager Emily Ruiz
Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne
For
(504) 828-1380
Design Diary
Later this year, on the former site of the Trolley Stop Café, St. Charles Avenue will get a new boutique hotel. The six-story, 42,000-squarefoot Warbler Hotel’s design is inspired by the Streamline Moderne architecture of the Jazz Age. The project’s lineup of partners includes EskewDumezRipple architectural firm, Jamie Bush & Co. interior design (Los Angeles-based, Tulane grad-led), Verdad Real Estate, Sweet Olive real estate development, Martin Steib as the project manager and Lark Hospitality, which manages hotels throughout the United States. The hotel’s bar and restaurant, Mildred’s, and poolside lounge, Upstairs, will have a food and beverage program developed with James Beard Award-winning Neal Bodenheimer and Kirk Estopinal of the New Orleans-based hospitality group CureCo., and Executive Chef Andrew Zimmerman of the Chicago’s Michelin-starred Sepia. thewarblerhotel.com
Night Life Chic
At the beginning of the year, just in time for Mardi Gras, the Omni Royal Orleans hotel in the French Quarter announced the opening of its new design-forward live-music lounge and lobby bar. Design of the hotel’s two new public spaces was led by New Orleans architecture firm Farouki Farouki and Metairie-based Ryan Gootee General Contractors. The Three Maries Jazz Club has all the dark, sultry vibes indicative of an urban music hotspot. Expect live music from local artists in this charcoal and green, 68-seat jewel box. The lobby’s makeover includes the 84-seat Royal Bar, which flips the script on its moody jazz club counterpart with an equally sophisticated, yet light and airy space. Cream and gold are accented with black and sage, wrapping the horseshoe-shaped brass bar in chic and cozy warmth like a luxe cashmere sweater. Sip cocktails and nosh on a curated selection of gourmet bites from the Rib Room. omnihotels.com/hotels/new-orleans-royal-orleans
The Beat Goes On
Design
Rebel In “Free Style: Unlock Creative Home Designs: An Interior Design Book,” New Orleans-based designer and artist Liz Kamarul encourages us to toss aside the rules and trust our innate creativity. If you aren’t sure how to go about doing that, Kamarul — along with New Orleansbased ApartmentTherapy. com House Tour Director Adrienne Breaux — is sharing her methods for crafting wild and free interiors. The vibrant, 240-page tome is overflowing with gorgeous inspo images shot by Kamarul and structured to walk readers through the process of defining their personal style, transforming unsightly items (think electronics cords) into design features and repurposing what you already have on hand. Available from your favorite bookseller starting April 21.
Throughout his life and career, legendary photographer Herman Leonard followed his muse to iconic cities including New York, Paris, Ibiza, London and San Francisco. Another beloved city for the late photographer, who was known for his images of jazz icons, was New Orleans. From the early ‘90s until 2005, when Hurricane Katrina destroyed his house and studio, Leonard called New Orleans home. While his photography archive was destroyed when the levees failed, Leonard’s negative archive was spared, having been moved to the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s vault prior to the storm. In January, the Ogden opened an exhibition of the Allentown, Pennsylvanianative’s work, “Herman Leonard: Images of Jazz,” featuring 30, selenium-toned silver gelatin photographic prints of jazz musicians, including Louis Armstrong, of the 1940s and ‘50s. The exhibition runs through July 12. ogdenmuseum.org
Throwing No Shade
The Shade Store opened later in 2025 on Magazine Street to much excited chatter from designers and laypeople alike. Known for sophisticated style made simple, the national retailer took over part of the building that formerly housed Ace Hardware at 3523 Magazine St. While window treatments don’t sound very sexy at the outset, getting them right (or wrong) can make (or break) the look of a room. Specializing in blinds, drapery and, of course, shades, visit the store with your interior designer or let the pros on staff help keep you from flying blind when choosing new, well, blinds. theshadestore.com
Moderne Love
Dusty Pink
Nineties style is back in a big way, notably with the inclusion of shades of dusty pink, a mauve-adjacent hue that pairs well with emerald green, navy and terracotta for a design kick, or creamy white, warm gray and sage green-tinged neutrals for a more toned-down look.
by Ashley McLellan
“Esprit Gassier” Rosé Cotes de Provence, at Martin Wine Cellar, martinwine.com
Gola Viper sneakers in chalk pink, from Anthropologie, anthropologie.com
Dusty Rose wall color, by Behr Paint.
Cinder Rose wall color, by Farrow and Ball.
Carriere Freres tomatoscented taper candles in pink, from Tuckernuck, tnuck.com.
Organic gauze duvet cover in Fig, from Quince.
Dusty rose glass table lamp, from H&M, hm.com
Mesa tile in painted sky and adobe, from fireclaytile.com.
Vintage Garden wallpaper in mauve, from Funky Paper Co, funkypaperco.com
Chateau Gassier
Vintage pink Depression glass Champagne coupes, from House of Modern Vintage, houseofmodernvintage. com
Encino dusty rose organic cotton stonewashed velvet throw pillow, from CB2, cb2.,com
Get Organized
Home Brewing
Transform your kitchen into a personal café with carefully curated equipment, accessories and décor.
by Misty Milioto
Hario V60 Kasuya Coffee Dripper This classic pour-over system is functional and available in a variety of sizes, available at Mojo Coffee House, multiple locations, mojocoffeehouse.com
Baratza Sette 270Wi Espresso Grinder This highquality grinder provides consistent grounds for the perfect cuppa joe every time, available at Current Crop Roasting Shop, 3931 Magazine St., 571-5129, currentcroproasting.com
Lucite Tray Anchor your station with a beautiful locally-designed tray, available at Hazelnut, 5525 Magazine St., 891-2424, hazelnutneworleans.com
NOLA x Coffee Mug Show off your NOLA pride with a branded mug, available at Dirty Coast, multiple locations, dirtycoast.com
Smeg Electric Kettle This stylish and functional kettle features precise temperature control, available at West Elm, 2929 Magazine St., 895-2469, westelm.com
Cambria Stoneware Cream & Sugar Set This elegant set is handcrafted of stoneware with a hand-applied patina in Portugal, available at Pottery Barn, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 219-0168, potterybarn.com
Logo Coffee Container Keep your coffee fresh with this Café du Monde canister, available at Café du Monde, multiple locations, cafedumonde.com
Single-Origin, Whole-Bean Coffee Enjoy one of New Orleans’ favorite coffee roasters at home with a selection of single-origin, whole-bean coffees, available at French Truck Coffee, multiple locations, frenchtruckcoffee.com
Yamazaki Countertop Rack with Drawer It’s perfect for organizing tea, filters and accessories, available at West Elm, 2929 Magazine St., 8952469, westelm.com
Serene Scene
A Baton Rouge Artist Shares Her Love of Nature
by
R.
Serenity, beauty, nature — Baton Rouge artist Elayne Kuehler’s idyllic and picturesque landscapes and flowery still life paintings transport our imaginations into a more peaceful and bucolic world that reminds us that in nature beauty is all around us. We simply must be patient and look.
As evident in Kuehler’s paintings, “serenity and beauty” inform her palette and compositions. “Serene,” she says, “as in tranquil, peace on earth, orderliness as in easy with no complications. Beauty, abounding endlessly in nature.”
The Baton Rouge native first studied art at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond and later with various distinguished artists such as South Carolina’s Barrie Van Osdell and Louisiana masters Auseklis Ozols and Carol Peebles. As Kuehler says — Osdell helped her “with symmetry in drawing,” Ozols “with color,” and Peebles “with portraiture and the figure.”
She learned those lessons well. For instance, her images of a peaceful sunflower-filled meadow, a radiant sunset on a Louisiana lake, and twisted surreal live oaks in warm misty light portray natural uncluttered landscapes devoid of human presence. It is a painting style in the long tradition of romantic realism.
“I am a realist and I am in love with beauty,” she says. “Beauty mesmerizes me. I see it in nature. I it see in even in banality. And to that, I add imagination.”
Like many artists, Kuehler believes the best way to truly see the nuances of the natural landscape is to paint on location where the “fresh air,” environment and atmosphere fully envelop the senses. To capture those nuances, she prefers the warm tones of early mornings or late afternoons when the “light is beautiful” and “long shadows add lovely patterns to the composition.”
There is a “but” however. Because pesky insects and constantly changing light can affect the composition, she often starts a painting on location and then completes it in her studio to the calming strains of classical music.
She also paints her flowery indoor compositions from life, not photographs. “If you compare the photograph of a still life to the real still life, everything is different, the color and the values,” she says. “Painting still life from life teaches one all about color, values, edges, reflections and beauty.”
Paintings created from life have a “magic quality,” Kuehler once wrote. “Painting in nature and from the brilliance of life is a very serene and an extremely nourishing place to be and serves as a great inspiration to me.”
Working from studios in Baton Rouge and Mandeville, Kuehler’s art has gained considerable recognition in regional, national and international juried competitions. In addition to awards, she is a member of several prestigious art organizations including the International Guild of Realism, the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club in New York, American Women Artists, the Portrait Society of America, and Oil Painters of America. She also has taught art for over 20 years.
That continuing success is based on an active and open imagination that is constantly thinking of new ways to express and approach that love of nature.
“I can think of so many things I want to paint that I will never catch up,” she says. “It is what I do. I have a need to capture the beauty of the story. Whether it’s the color scheme, the perspective or the composition, each painting is a challenge.”
And, she continues, “What could be more interesting than that?”
For more information, elaynekuehler.com.
John
Kemp portrait by Thom Bennett
Go Fish!
Chef Jeremy Latimer’s playful take on Filipino escabeche melds sweet and savory flavors for the win this spring.
produced by Margaret Zainey Roux photo by Eugenia Uhl
Redfish Escabeche Serves 4-6 family style
4-6 six-ounce redfish filets
2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and diced in 1-inch cubes
1 large green bell pepper, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, sliced
1 large carrot, peeled and grated
1 medium red onion, sliced
1 jalapeno, seeded and sliced
Escabeche Sauce
2 cups white wine vinegar
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp freshly grated ginger
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
2 tbsp corn starch, dissolved in 2 tbsp of water
1. Preheat oven to 425-degrees.
2. Toss diced sweet potatoes in light olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them on a parchment-lined sheet pan and roast for 35 minutes.
3. Season fish filets with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat oil in a frying pan until hot. Fry fish one side at a time until golden brown. Remove fish from pan and set aside.
5. In a saucepan, whisk together sauce ingredients and remove from heat.
6. In a separate saucepan, sauté garlic and onion in 2 tablespoons oil. Add carrots and bell peppers.
7. Pour sauce over veggies and let simmer until tender and sauce is thick, while stirring occasionally.
8. Remove roasted sweet potatoes from oven and place on a large serving plate. Top with fish filets.
9. Spoon veggies and sauce on top of the fish and potatoes.
10. To garnish, top with crispy, sweet potato chips (home-fried or storebought).
Chef Jeremy Latimer
Chef Jeremy Latimer is the executive chef of Pigeon & Whale, The Husky, and Station
6. Growing up in small-town Ohio, he discovered a love for cooking that later led him to the Culinary Institute of America and to kitchens in Cleveland, San Francisco, New York, and throughout the Caribbean. He has called New Orleans home for more than two decades.
Home Grown
Mellow Yellow
Versatile and packed with fiber, vitamins C and B, potassium and magnesium, yellow squash is a nutritious and sunny addition to your garden
by Melanie Warner Spencer
1
Appearance
Yellow squash comes in straight and crookneck varieties and is easily identified by its bright, pale to golden to lemony hues. Inside, the flesh is white and infused with tender seeds.
2
Uses Sauté it, grill it, or add it to casseroles, soups and stews.
Pro-tip: Prep a batch in advance to toss into salads.
3
Grow In South Louisiana, it’s best to plant your yellow squash in mid-March. (Wait until after the last frost, as the seeds are sensitive to freezing.) Be sure to plant seeds in a sunny, well-drained spot. From planting to harvest, you’ll want to allow approximately 45 to 50 days.
4
Learn Yellow squash is generally treated as a savory vegetable, but it’s actually classified as a botanical fruit.
Only-at-Home Arranging
by Jenny Adams photo by Eugenia Uhl
With a tagline of “romantic, wild, nature-inspired floral design,” we knew that The Secret Spot Flowers was the perfect springtime source for building creations out of what we have on-hand.
Tey Stiteler opened her shop on Camp Street in May of 2025. One year in, she’s become a trusted expert in the city for brides, hoteliers, entertainers and restaurateurs looking to freshen spaces with intriguing floral displays. She’s also growing her own organic blooms on her very own farm.
“At our core, The Secret Spot Flowers is about celebrating life’s moments — big and small,” she says. “Our mission is to bring a sense of beauty and connection to everyday life, through flowers and experiences that feel
genuine and welcoming. We’re deeply inspired by seasonality, sustainability, and local flowers.”
We sat down with Stiteler, amongst the blooming and dried masterpieces in her shop, beneath chandeliers and exposed brick, to hash out using what you already have at home.
Where did you learn about florals and arranging? “My education in flowers has been layered and hands-on. I’ve learned through working alongside other designers, through formal workshops, and — most importantly — by growing flowers myself. Having a small, no-till, organic farm has completely shaped the way I design. When you grow the flowers, that knowledge naturally translates into a more intuitive, respectful way of designing.”
This spring, we want to celebrate the more-is-less approach. Instead of going out to purchase, how do we make the most of what we already have? “Working with what you already have shifts the design process away from achieving perfection and focuses on creating meaning. It’s more sustainable, more accessible, and more unique. When you use branches from your yard or a vessel you already love, the arrangement naturally tells a story that feels authentically your own.”
To start, she says, begin by “looking for line and texture before flowers. Branches, interesting foliage, seed pods. Inside the house, I notice vessels that can be used as a vase — pitchers, jars, bowls. With our warm climate, New Orleans yards always have something to offer. There’s almost always an interesting vine, palm or flower if you look closely.”
What might someone less skilled overlook? “People often overlook foliage and negative space. Not everything needs to be a ‘flower.’ Leaves, branches, and even slightly imperfect blooms add movement and intention. Scale and proportion matter too. Many art forms reference the ‘Golden Ratio,’ but an easier way
to think about it is the Rule of Thirds. Aim for the arrangement to be about two-thirds of the overall height or width, with the vessel making up the remaining third.”
What do we choose first — vase or flowers? “The first question we ask is, ‘What’s the occasion?’ The second is ‘Where will they be placed?’ Begin with the why and where. How do you want the arrangement to feel? What space is it meant for? From there, then let what you already have, indoors or out, guide the design.”
Can you share common plants found in New Orleans yards or growing on neutral ground that make for great arrangements? “In spring, I’m especially drawn to gardenia branches. The blooms are fleeting, but the foliage is one of my favorites. Chinese fringe tree and jasmine vines add wonderful texture and movement. For large-scale designs, I love branches of elaeagnus, loropetalum and magnolia leaves. I also use herbs whenever I can. I love a little bud vase of rosemary and flowering basil on a bedside table. And, you can never underestimate the impact of tropical foliage. Palms, gingers, and elephant ears can be striking, especially in homes with soaring ceilings.”
Is there a tip to keeping arrangements fresh? “A clean vessel, fresh water and change it regularly. Ideally daily. Flower food can be helpful, but it isn’t necessary if you’re diligent about refreshed water. When it comes to harvesting flowers and foliage, early morning is ideal, when plants are at their most hydrated.”
Beyond the yard, what about the pantry or the fridge? “Absolutely. Citrus, like satsumas, oranges, and lemons, are beautiful. Kumquat clippings and fruiting loquat branches are especially lovely. I also like incorporating okra into arrangements. These elements blur the line between flowers and food, which I find so appealing.”
This spring, look to your yard and even your fridge for seriously stylish floral design
Garden Variety
Whether adding a touch of Mother Nature’s finest flora and fauna indoors or out, spruce up for spring with these vibrant pieces from local shops that are sure to brighten both your day and your living space.
by Andy Myer photography by Eugenia Uhl
Basket, stacked pillows, ottoman: Napa Home & Garden Evran Vase handwoven in Indonesia, bold linen chinoiserie print ball ottoman in 21w”x21D”x17H, Castello velvet pillow in summer green, dusty rose velvet fringe square pillow, teal velvet fringe lumbar pillow, available at JADE, jadenola.com
Brass candelabra, candles, brass bugs: Gold tulip candelabra, playful parrot taper candles, brass dragonfly and butterfly (in range of sizes) available at Hazelnut, hazelnutneworleans.com
Pelican, green cachepot: cement pelican garden statue (offered in large and small) and green glass container, available at The Plant Gallery, theplantgallery.com. Plants: Syngonium robusta (dusty pink leafed plant) and Bird’s Nest fern, available through luxury container garden and plant stylist Addy Peyton, addypeytonplantstyling.com.
Tablecloth, wastebasket/cachepot, napkins, napkin rings, bird on leaf serving bowl: Linen pomegranate and floral tablecloth with deep pink border, Hazel Mazel scalloped metal buckets with chinoiserie print, washed linen napkins in lilac and moss green, decorative hummingbird napkin rings, Creative Co. Op polyresin bowl with bird perched on leaf, available at Hazelnut, hazelnutneworleans.com. Pillow, books: Yangtze River print linen pillow with solid green linen backing, gardening coffee table books, available at JADE, jadenola.com. Pedestal bowl on books: green ceramic pedestal bowl with scalloped trim, available at The Plant Gallery, theplantgallery.com. Plants: Bird’s Nest fern, orchid arrangement with Phalaenopsis orchids and Maidenhair ferns, shell planter with bromeliad, spider plants and aglaonema, available through Addy Peyton Plant Styling, addypeytonplantstyling.com
RENOVATION OF THE YEAR
CLASSIC BEAUTY
STUDIO BKA RESTORES AN 1894 ITALIANATE GEM IN THE GARDEN DISTRICT.
BY MISTY MILIOTO / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACQUELINE MARQUE
When Jayson Seidman and Paris Neill Seidman first encountered the historic Italianate home in the Garden District, they saw something most prospective buyers had missed. “The house was quite chopped up internally and most saw it as a four-unit rental,” Jayson recalls. “For us, it was an exercise in addition by subtraction.”
Built in 1894 by Dr. Oscar Czarnowski, a prominent physician, the home had led many lives before the Seidmans purchased it in 2020. “Unlike many homes from that era, the home was framed in masonry instead of wood — a more durable and expensive material that reflected Dr. Czarnowski’s means,” says architect Kim Payne Allen of Studio BKA, who led the restoration. By 1921, the single-family residence had been converted into four luxury apartments, and, when the Seidmans acquired it, the main structure housed two residences alongside two units in the carriage houses.
When Hurricane Ida hit in 2021, it revealed years of deferred maintenance and the extent of the work ahead. “There was water intrusion on the south-facing side of the home,” Allen says. The project proceeded in two phases: first restoring the carriage house with extensive roof and plaster repairs, then transforming the main house back into a single-family residence — though the couple chose to keep one rental unit in the main house.
For Jayson and Paris, who met at Delachaise Bar when Paris’s brother orchestrated an introduction, the location was ideal. “We loved the Garden District neighborhood, the specific location close to great schools, the walkability of Magazine Street and, most importantly, the
Previous
In the kitchen, sleek cabinets by Form Kitchens provide structure for the lighting, stools, tile backsplash, sink fixtures and pot filler (all by Devol), while artwork by William Hemmerling personalizes the space.
page: The stunning parlor features artwork by Butch Anthony, a chandelier from Buster + Punch, a light fixture from Edison Bulbs of Australia and a couch from CB2.
Facing page: The front parlor shows a view of stairs (with newel post finial by P.E. Guerin); a light fixture by Jamb London; flower sconces from Urban Electric; a couch from CB2; a bar sourced by Sarah Costello; and artwork by Butch Anthony. Top left: The Woodchip & Magnolia wallpaper provides a lovely backdrop for the Nelson pendant light (from Design Within Reach) in this view of the rear stairs. Top right: The daughter’s bedroom features a chair from Restoration Hardware and artwork from Dopp Antiques. Bottom left: Murano glass light fixtures from Soho Home overlook a vintage rug and heirloom family chair in the upstairs hallway. Bottom right: The kitchen living room has a pendant light from Devol, Eames lounge chairs, and vintage Moroccan table and swivel chairs.
architectural style reminiscent of London and New York City,” Paris says. Both Louisiana natives who attended Tulane University at different times, they were drawn to the home’s European sensibility.
Luckily, Jayson’s boutique hotel work had given them both comfort with historic properties. “Given most of our hotels in town are historic, we felt quite comfortable and excited to peel back the layers to learn and ultimately preserve the original architecture, natural light and beautiful interior site lines,” he says.
The renovation centered on restoring the home’s original flow and grandeur. For example, a switchback stair at the front door had awkwardly served both the main residence and apartment. “The flow of the house was very choppy before we made changes,” Allen says. “Once we decided to recapture the apartment space into the main residence, we knew the stair had to be reworked — its configuration didn’t make sense for a single-family home. The entry, stair and center hall set the tone for the overall organization of the house, so restoring that sense of hierarchy became [paramount].”
The new straight stair extends to the rear of the home, opening up the foyer and creating a spectacular architectural moment that Allen adores. “Jayson knew early on that he wanted metal balustrades instead of wood,” she says. “I’ll admit, I was a little hesitant at first, but, once we mocked it up, I was completely convinced.”
The introduction of arched doorways throughout the home also became a defining feature. “Jayson had the idea of introducing arches, and I wanted to make sure they felt authentic to the home’s architecture,” Allen says. “The thick, rounded plaster casings were inspired by details from French architect Joseph Dirand, and they felt right here. We also love creating architectural dialogues that repeat throughout the house to connect everything together.”
However, the delicate balance between historic preservation and modern functionality required ingenuity. Like most historic homes in New Orleans, storage can be an issue. “I don’t like reducing the proportions of historic rooms, so we had clever ways to tuck storage into integrated design elements,” Allen says. “We created a lot of built-ins that looked like walls. You’ll see this in the nursery, kitchen and the primary bathroom.”
The collaborative process between architect and homeowners proved remarkably fluid, especially considering Jayson’s history of developing boutique hotels. “It started by sharing quite a large amount of inspiration images and references from around the world that spoke to us,” Jayson says.
“I’m talking 10 inspiration images a day for months,” Allen says. “After a while, I could practically read his mind. He’s great at communicating his
Facing page: The primary bathroom features fireclay tile, lighting from Urban Electric, and custom millwork, shower enclosure and door. Above: The Oriental rug and chairs in the office are family heirlooms.
vision and the kind of aesthetic he wants, and it helps that he has amazing taste in decorative objects.” Digital modeling software allowed the couple to virtually walk through the renovation before construction began.
One element Jayson felt particularly passionate about was checkerboard tile. What began as a simple black-and-white scheme evolved at the stone yard when exotic slabs — Alexandrita quartzite and Cristallo Jadore quartzite — inspired a bolder approach. The team selected checkerboard tiles in three colorways, creating uniquely saturated bathrooms that pushed conventional boundaries.
For Paris, however, functionality was paramount. “[I wanted] an open kitchen — a space that didn’t just look good but also functioned well,” she says. “The nursery was also a priority as we wanted to create a room for our first child that she would love and grow into.”
The couple’s overall vision was clear from the start. They wanted a calming, open-yetcozy home with enough spaces throughout to read a book or watch a movie in peace. The third floor became their “West Coast wellness escape” with a gym, playroom, sauna, shower and kitchenette — a dramatic transformation of previously unoccupied attic space. Meanwhile, other parts of the home are inspired by the brownstones of London and New York, including the exterior paint color.
Throughout the home, layered collections reflect years of travel and relationships with artists. The most notable heirloom is a 28-person dining table from Paris’s family home on the North Shore. “It’s all a result of our travels and investing in pieces of art and furniture over the years that are quality and come with a good story,” Jayson says.
For Allen, the project was successful due to its enduring design. “What makes [this home] timeless are the thoughtful customizations that reflect the owners’ point of view,” she says. “Everywhere you turn, there’s a moment — from the architecture to the art, it’s just a really beautiful home.” For the Seidmans, the home represents more than beautiful design. “We align on design and, most importantly, family values, travel, music and making wonderful memories with our family and friends,” Paris says. “We see our home as a solid foundation to build lasting memories.”
Above: The upstairs sitting room features artwork by John Gould, a coffee table and settee from Merchant House, and chairs bought at auction. Top: The exterior of the home is painted in Sherwin Williams Greenblack. Bottom left: The bathroom in the upstairs sitting room has a sink and shower fixture from Cast Iron Bath Co., and a mirror light sconce from Urban Electric. Bottom right: The gym bathroom doesn’t skimp on design thanks to light sconces from Visual Comfort, a sink basin by Concretti with fixture by Catchpole & Rye, and fireclay tile.
Memories in the Remaking
Wendy Kerrigan of Atelier Design recreates a condo as a second home for a D.C. family
BY LEE CUTRONE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY
Facing page: Living room appointments include a brass lamp and flame chair, both from Malachite Home. This page: Custom cabinetry by New Orleans Custom Cabinetry. Wallpaper and counter skirt fabric by Schumacher. Prints from Vincent Bergeal Framing.
For several years, a Washington, D.C. couple searched for a house in New Orleans where they could spend time and make memories with their children and friends. Then they stumbled upon a four-story unit in the St. Elizabeth’s Condominiums, just two blocks from the wife’s childhood home. The historic character and unusually grand scale of the 19th century building immediately appealed to their tastes, and the familiar location along the Uptown parade route suited their love of entertaining at Mardi Gras.
“Sweeping high ceilings, exposed brick, old creaky floors; we were looking for a place with patina, and it certainly has that in spades,” said the wife.
Moreover, the couple knew just the person to renovate and design an interior where old bones meet urbane contemporary design.
“We’d wanted to work with Wendy for years,” said the wife who has been best friends with architect/interior designer Wendy Kerrigan of Atelier Design since childhood. “When you work with a designer who really knows you, you end up getting the best version of yourself that you could probably never do on your own. She took our ideas and grew them and made them so much better in the space.”
Both husband and wife contributed to the project’s wish list. He wanted a large sectional sofa in the main living area. She wanted skirted storage below the kitchen counters, a powder room cozily wrapped head-to-toe in one pattern, and a happy dormitory-style space for the kids (ages 22 to 12) inspired by the building’s past as an orphanage. They trusted Kerrigan to lead the way on the details.
Facing page: The living room’s custom sectional is by Leonel’s Upholstery and is covered with a floral chintz by Rose Cumming. Top: The dining room’s mix of antique and modern includes vintage oyster and asparagus plates from Wirthmore Antiques, and Crown & Colony Antiques in Fairhope, Alabama. Louis XVI chairs are covered in Schumacher toile with embroidered Pierre Frey fabric on the back. Bottom: The kitchen combines rough and sleek surfaces and traditional and modern patterns. Curtain fabric, Pierre Frey.
“It was a little less of ‘this is what we want’ and more ‘what would you do with it?’” said Kerrigan of the clients’ wishes. Kerrigan began with the job of changing a few design choices (made when St. Elizabeth’s was converted into condos during the aughts) to better highlight the building’s original features. For instance, she restored undersized doors and spaces to their original proportions, added cased openings that echo the heavy millwork surrounding the many windows and removed both a hall that obscured a window in the primary suite and a closet that hid a window on the top floor.
Considering the original intent of the building’s second empire architecture also provided inspiration for design creativity. Kerrigan made the window in the primary a focal point that looks original by turning it into an elegant alcove with a window seat that conceals the return air below.
“Where there is a problem, there is a design opportunity,” said Kerrigan.
The large laundry room was divided into three spaces — a small laundry area, a powder room and a bar. The fourth floor was reconfigured to house multiple areas: the kids’ room, a guest room and two bathrooms, all of which still live large. While the original architectural features are core to the condo’s
Top: A cornice from Neal Auction Company with a luxurious floral fabric by Pierre Frey pays homage to the clients’ love of Paris. All drapery in the condo, by Narces Esmail. Bottom: A second bar on the third floor has chinoiserie and tropical elements. Wallpaper by Iksel. Middle: A dormitory-style bedroom with matching spindle beds is a reminder of the building’s past as an orphanage. Bedding is by Matouk and light fixture by Visual Comfort. Facing page, top: In the primary bath, a contemporary vanity of Calacatta Viola marble from The Stone Gallery contrasts with an antique trumeau. Facing page, bottom: The primary bedroom features a bed by Doorman Designs and a pendant light fixture from Visual Comfort.
charm, Kerrigan refreshed them for a new era by bleaching floors and whitewashing brick, and by adding the contrast of modern elements, particularly in the kitchen and baths.
“There is a constant play of creating balance and tension between the new and the old, the colors, the scale and the pieces themselves,” said Kerrigan.
The second empire architecture, which includes a sloping mansard roof and a massive staircase connecting the four floors of the residence, is suggestive of Paris, a destination that the clients love. Kerrigan added to the Parisian flavor with luxurious drapery made with reams of fine fabric and trim. At the same time, the four-story layout (bar and powder room on the first floor; primary suite and office on the second; living room, kitchen, second bar, powder room and dining room on the third; and the kids’ room, guest room and two baths on the top floor) is akin to an NYC townhouse where living spaces are stacked one above the other.
Kerrigan met the husband’s request for a sectional sofa by covering what has become a mainstay of modern minimalist design with a maximalist floral chintz, turning the sum of the parts into a piece with vintage personality. She likewise chose what appears at first glance to be a classic black-and-white toile for the cozy powder room, but on closer inspection is a tongue-in-cheek toile depicting a classical female figure with 21st century tech accessories. In the kitchen, she contrasted the old-world style of the skirted storage and raw brick with the modernity of streamlined appliances and cabinetry and a geometric wallpaper. In the living room, the trompe l’oeil floor drawn from centuries-old tradition, is given a quirky New Orleans nod with the addition of a sisal alligator rug.
Facing page: A vintage desk found by the clients and offset by a Herman Miller Eames chair anchors the office at the top of the stairs. Top: Kerrigan removed a closet that obscured a window in the primary bedroom and created a window seat that hides the HVAC duct below. Bottom: A tongue-in-cheek Schumacher toile in the first-floor powder room/bath features classical figures with 21st century accessories. Mirror from Mac Maison.
Over the course of several years, the wife and Kerrigan gathered antiques, miscellaneous objects and art from auctions and estate sales and put them in storage for future use. The wife also inherited items from her parents’ downsize. The resulting mix encompasses everything from Magazine Street antiques and midcentury finds to custom made designs and unique new pieces. One of the wife’s favorite acquisitions is the suite of antique French oyster and asparagus plates, which came from an antiques store in Fairhope, Alabama and are now displayed in the dining room.
“It was like a treasure hunt,” said Kerrigan.
“When we pulled everything out of storage, it kind of felt like we were going shopping for free,” said the wife. “Even now it’s a surprise when I pull out silver and china for entertaining.”
Color and pattern, introduced with whimsical wallpaper, floral fabrics, and finished stone surfaces, are threaded together with touches of black-and-white, memorable artwork and lighting that enhances the interior like well-placed jewels. A self-described “recovering fan of neutrals”, the wife credits Kerrigan with helping her push the design envelope while still making it comfortable for all to enjoy.
“We have a house where we can all hang out,” said the clients. “The kids love coming to New Orleans. It’s a true second home.”
SPRING DREAMS
Inspiring kitchen plans, décor and design
General contractor, Esplanade Construction; design, Valentina Lostalo, Val Spaces; cabinets, Wellborn Forest Cabinetry, Shelby door style, from French Quarter Facades, finish, Malibu Paint; flooring, Township beige porcelain tile, Valley Ridge, from Floor & Décor; countertops, Misterio quartz backsplash, Scandi Vadara quartz island countertop, all from French Quarter Facades; wall tile, Wayfair; door hardware, Sure-Loc Verona levers from Ferguson; cabinet hardware: top knobs, Newburn pull from Ferguson; hood, Café wall-mounted range hood, Edgestar freestanding and undercounter ice maker, all from Ferguson; dehumidifier, Broan Nutone in-wall dehumidifier from Grainger; sliding doors in drying closet, M&M Glass; paint, Farrell Calhoun; mudroom, Arroliga Custom Millwork; cushion fabrication, Kasmir Fabrics.
General contractor, Brian Dahlme; design, Carleton Young; cabinets, built and installed by New Orleans Custom Cabinetry; countertops, Taj Mahal quartzite; backsplash, Soho Studio Asian Statuary; fixtures, plumbing by Southland Plumbing; lighting, island pendants and sconces by Visual Comfort; furniture, custom upholstery and pillows, coffee table by Woodbridge Furniture; lamp by Visual Comfort; antique rug and cabinet, provided by Carleton Young; appliances, Sub-Zero refrigerator and Wolf range.
JEFFERY JOHNSTON PHOTO
General contractor, George Pharis, GS Pharis, Inc.; design, Lisa Pharis, Lisa Pharis Design and John Lagarde and Patricia Neal, Classic Cupboards; Stockton cabinets, design by Classic Cupboards, construction by Mouser Cabinetry; countertops, marble by The Stone Gallery; appliances, by Wolf; hood, custom Vent-A-Hood.
General contractor, Scott Morse, Morse Homes; design, Penny Francis, Eclectic Home; cabinets, Shiloh cabinets through Mattix Cabinet Works in Sherwin Williams Dovetail, island stained in walnut; cabinet hardware by Top Knobs; flooring, European white oak through Eclectic Home; countertops, Dekton from Cosentino, fabricated and installed by Crescent City Countertops; backsplash, Dekton from Cosentino (kitchen range wall), ceramic tile from Ann Sacks (bar wall); fixtures, Signature Hardware, Kohler sink through Southern Pipe & Supply; lighting, pendant and decorative lighting through Eclectic Home; furniture, from Eclectic Home; appliances, Thermador 48” range, panel ready refrigerator/freezer, KitchenAid dishwasher, Thermador microwave drawer, Thermador warming drawer, all through Southern Pipe & Supply, custom Venetian plaster and walnut trim hood vent cover, Morse Homes.
Project management, Creative Spaces & Elements, LLC; design, M.A. Palumbo Studio; cabinets, custom fabricated from M.A. Palumbo Studio and Creative Spaces & Elements, LLC; countertops, Afyon white marble surround, backsplash, and bar countertop, Calacatta Monet marble island, all from Jerusalem Stone; fixtures, Lambeth smooth cabinet pulls, Restoration Hardware; lighting, Flos IC lights suspension island pendants, Herman Miller Nelson Ball, bubble pendant light over breakfast table, Comfort Boston sconce over sink from Visual Comfort; furniture, bar stools from CB2; appliances and plumbing fixtures all from Ferguson: sink, Kohler Vault undermount, faucet, Delta Trinsic, refrigerator, Sub-Zero, range, Wolf, microwave drawer, Sharp, dishwasher, Bosch, ice maker, Hoshizaki, beverage drawers, KitchenAid.
JEFFERY JOHNSTON PHOTO
Architect, Jessica Walker, Walker Run Studio; design, Logan Killen Interiors; general contractor, JLV Construction; cabinets, by Singer Kitchens; countertops, London Grey Caeserstone from KMG Marble and Granite; millwork by New Orleans Millworks; paint, Sherwin Williams.
JEFFERY JOHNSTON PHOTO
HOME REMODELED BY RL MILLS, INC.
BUILDING ON EXPERIENCE — 85 YEARS OF TRUST
As you begin planning a home improvement or remodeling project, choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. For 85 years, the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans (HBAGNO) has been the region’s trusted source for local, licensed, and ethical building professionals — experts committed to bringing your vision to life with quality and care.
Since 1941, HBAGNO has upheld a proud tradition of integrity and professionalism. Every member commits to a formal code of ethics that guides their work and ensures the highest standards of craftsmanship, safety, and responsibility. This dedication is why HBAGNO members continue to be the preferred choice for homeowners seeking peace of mind and reliable results.
Our commitment to the community extends far beyond construction. Through our 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the New Orleans Education League (NOEL), we have provided millions of dollars in emergency home repairs
at no cost to financially needy residents. We have also partnered with local authorities on neighborhood improvement initiatives — including the Terrytown Façade Program in Jefferson Parish, which has helped revitalize and strengthen one of our region’s most historic communities. These efforts reflect our belief that safe, well maintained homes and neighborhoods benefit everyone.
HBAGNO is also proud to produce hallmark events such as the New Orleans Home & Garden Show and the Parade of Homes, which highlight the area’s most talented builders and remodelers and the latest innovations in design and renovation.
As you explore the 2026 Remodelers Guide, you can be confident that every member featured is backed by decades of leadership, community service and a shared commitment to excellence. When it’s time to remodel, choose HBAGNO members — trusted professionals dedicated to building stronger homes and a stronger Greater New Orleans.
Tanya Dillard
2026 Remodelers Council Chair
Remodelers Council Mission Statement
The Remodelers Council of the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans is committed to advancing professionalism within the remodeling industry. Through education, information and certification, the Council promotes high standards that benefit both our members and the public.
Tanya Dillard, owner of Aspire Concepts, is a respected leader in the remodeling and design-build community. Known for her dedication to quality, clear communication, and thoughtful project leadership, Tanya has built a reputation for delivering wellcrafted, clientfocused renovation work. Her experience spans construction management, design consultation and collaborative project development, making her a trusted resource for both homeowners and industry peers.
Tanya has long been an active contributor to the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans, participating in initiatives that strengthen member engagement and elevate professional standards. Her passion for improving processes, encouraging innovation, and building strong industry relationships reflects her commitment to the growth of the remodeling profession.
As the 2026 Chair of the Remodelers Council, Tanya brings a forward-looking approach focused on member development, quality craftsmanship and collaborative learning. Her leadership will guide the Council in fostering professionalism, promoting best practices, and ensuring that remodeling professionals across Greater New Orleans remain trusted partners in improving the region’s homes and communities.
Kirk Williamson
2026 Remodelers Council Vice-Chair
Kevin Katner
2026 Remodelers Council Secretary
(504) 837-2700 hbagno.org
Planning Your Remodel with Confidence
Working on your home is a major investment, and choosing the right remodeler is essential to ensuring quality results and peace of mind. Taking time to plan what you want — and partnering with a skilled, professional contractor — will help you avoid common pitfalls and enjoy your improved home for years to come.
Whether you’re updating an aging home, preparing for a lifestyle change, or increasing resale value, remodeling can be a smart long-term decision. Think about your goals, determine the project’s scope, and set a realistic budget before you begin. The Remodelers Council of the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans (HBAGNO) encourages homeowners to work with experienced, licensed remodelers who bring professionalism, craftsmanship, and accountability to every job.
Hiring a qualified remodeler means you have someone to coordinate the details, manage the schedule and keep the process running smoothly. With the right partner, your project becomes far less stressful and far more rewarding.
Choosing the Right Remodeler
Selecting a remodeler is one of the most important steps in any home project. Keep these essential guidelines in mind:
1. Define your project clearly.
Know the general scope, priorities, and features you want before reaching out.
2. Interview multiple remodelers.
Ask about experience, timelines, comparable projects, and communication styles.
3. Check references and qualifications. Verify licensing, insurance, and professional affiliations. Review photos or visit past work when possible.
4. Be cautious of unusually low bids
A low price may reflect shortcuts, inexperience, or missing components.
Before signing any contract, verify local building requirements and make sure your remodeler will obtain the necessary permits. A thorough written contract should spell out the project details, payment schedule, timelines, and warranty information. Any changes should be documented with signed change orders to avoid misunderstandings.
Both the homeowner and remodeler have responsibilities throughout the project. Your role is to communicate clearly, make timely decisions, and follow the agreed payment schedule. A professional remodeler will keep you informed, maintain a safe worksite, and meet recognized industry standards.
Understanding the Process and Your Contract
Before construction begins, review all project details with your remodeler. Confirm materials, fixtures, layouts, and allowances — anything unclear now may cause delays later. A complete contract protects both parties and should always include:
• A detailed description of the work
• A clear timeline and payment terms
• Procedures for handling unexpected conditions
• Warranty information and responsibilities
Changes are common in remodeling, but they should always be handled in writing. A signed change order protects you from surprise costs and ensures the remodeler can adjust materials, scheduling, and labor accordingly.
Homeowners play an active part in keeping the project on track. Prompt decisions, access to the home, and consistent communication help ensure the job progresses smoothly.
A professional remodeler brings experience, training, and a commitment to quality that helps safeguard your investment. By understanding the process and working collaboratively with your remodeler, your project is far more likely to stay on time, on budget, and true to your vision.
Baton Rouge
Chris Van Pelt
M & M Glass, LLC 13429 S Choctaw Dr. (225) 278-6670
Belle Chasse
Brian Mills
R.L Mills, Inc. PO Box 221 (504) 909-9053
Frank Morse
Morse Homes, Inc 110 Keating Dr (504) 393-7777
Chalmette
Marcus Campo
NOLA Build Contracting Services, Inc. 117 W Genie St. (504) 644-6979
Covington
Sarah Winston
Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights 70383 Bravo St (504) 522-9485
Elmwood
Machi Medrzycki
MLM Construction LLC 1400 Distributors Row (985) 788-1541
HBAGNO Remodeler Council members
Harahan
August DiGiovanni
DiGiovanni
Construction Co., LLC 824 Elmwood Park Blvd Suite 204 (504) 264-7394
Bruce Farrell
Campbell Cabinet Co. 220 Hord St. (504) 733-4687
Harvey Bill Hatchett
Wind Mitigation Surveyors, LLC 1732 Hampton Dr. (504) 439-2860
Gerald Mire
Hyman L. Bartolo Jr. Contractors, Inc. 1100 Mac Arthur Ave (504) 328-1381
Dustin Savoie
Extraordinary Flooring 1525 8th St. (504) 487-1104
Kenner
Benjamin Perez
Authement Iron Works 1415 27th Street (504) 467-6666
Michael Philippovic
The LVP Warehouse NOLA 2 W Hamlet St (504) 289-6359
Nimai Rathore
Luxury Stone Slabs 2601 Lexington Ave. Ste. B (504) 402-7927
Martina Scheuermann Hurricane Fence and Home Improvement
2724-A Crestview (504) 495-7374
Ryan Fitzsimmons
Fitz Construction 4130 Florida Ave Kenner, LA 70065 (504) 355-2635
Lafayette
David Anderson Rader’s Insulation 111 Exchange Pl (985) 790-2960
Laplace
Randy Noel Reve, Inc 325 Belle Terre Blvd (504) 915-2815
Triton Stone Group of New Orleans 6131 River Rd (504) 738-2228
Angelica Rivera
Colmex Construction 4334 Earhart Blvd (504) 383-8092
Wesley Stone Redfish Electric, LLC 4610 Anson St. (504) 957-3544
Devon Sweeney
Sweeney Restoration, LLC 4333 Washington Ave (504) 913-3158
Kirk Williamson
JLV Construction 3400 Washington Ave (504) 533-9932
Vacherie
Tanya Dillard
Aspire Concepts LLC 13385 Ellis St (504) 487-7776
Violet
Rey Rivas
Green Terra Construction 2224 Livaccari Dr. (504) 413-3640
* Highlighted are advertisers
Style Signature Style
For Katharine Rhudy of Reed & Acanthus, a stylish space transcends aesthetics — it expresses artistry and authenticity.
Produced by Margaret Zainey Roux
1
Perfectly Paired
Tony Mose expresses the culture, color, and richness of New Orleans through his vibrant abstracts and eclectic figures. Pick your piece at Esom Gallery and then head next door to Kevin Gillentine for the city’s best selection of custom frames. Esomart. com and Kevingillentine. com.
2
Suite Dreams
Originally designed for the Henry Howard Hotel, Doorman Designs’ Josephine ded is edgy and elegant. I love its unique composition of mixed metals — a matte black iron frame with antique gilded accents. Doormandesigns.com
3
Personally, Yours For me, wallpaper is an essential design element that truly speaks to the style of its owner. It instantly adds depth, character, and versatility that paint cannot achieve and has the transformative power to turn blank walls into art. Reedacanthus. com
4
Bright Idea
To make a room shine, you need the right light. For years, Visual Comfort has been my go-to source for high-quality fixtures, so I’m thrilled about their new local showroom on Magazine Street. Visualcomfort.com
Reed & Acanthus 1643 State St., 917-767-5116 reedacanthus.com
Microdosing to the Max
Incorporating dynamic design elements with visual impact.
Produced by Amy Gabriel
Enhance your sleeping quarters with a contemporary Mercer bed. Aged brass banding and a rich dark grey velvet upholstery adds textural appeal to your slumber. Villa Vici, villavici.com.
Create a mouthagape, modern glamour moment with a captivating, vintage-inspired Leafy Gumball chandelier. Sazerac Stitches, sazeracstitches.com.
Microdosing a hypnotic wallpaper print adds pizzazz to poignant nook. Ashley Lasseigne Textiles, ashleylasseignedesigns.bigcartel.
Decorative detailing, the intricate design and curving lines of a vintage wrought iron peacock chair will achieve an eyecatching moment either indoors or out. Chairish, chairish.com/shop/ perrierdesigns.
Infuse additional light to a reading corner with an elegantly swooping fourcandelabra Montreuil floor lamp by Aerin. Visual Comfort & Co., visualcomfort.com.
Make a tablescape statement with a pair of emerald glass taper candlestick holders, expertly crafted in a mesmerizing shape. Sotre, sotrecollection. com.
Fungi divine, a detailed mushroom sculpture made of clay by Debbie
makes for a stimulating conversation piece. Merchant House, merchanthouse.co.
O’Hara
Smart, Secure Home
What Buyers Should Know
by Kelcy Wilburn
In 2026, the winds of change have been blowing in gusts. Perhaps the gales of change would more accurately describe the entrance into this new era. Technological shifts spurred by AI have been a significant catalyst of this change, and beyond using this kind of tech at work, it’s now fully entrenched in the home as well. This season, we’re checking in with local experts on smart home and security features to see what buyers should know about this rapidly developing field.
According to Jamie Gannon, owner of Dynamic Audio Video, even the area’s older, historic homes can be retrofitted to incorporate smart home technology thanks to how much of this new technology is added wirelessly.
“With a little planning and a good home network, we can still make smart home magic happen,” he says. Existing light switches can be swapped for smart dimmers, while items like battery-operated motorized window shades and wireless music systems add luxury without extensive wiring.
“That being said, if you’re building a new home or renovating, having devices hardwired is ultimately the best and most reliable option for smart automation,” he says. “We can assist with the design and planning if you’re at this stage — consider us your ‘electronic architects.’”
Smart home customers today are most excited about lighting control in combination with the Josh.ai voice control system, which ranks as the top voice control system among custom electronics businesses.
“Setting lighting ‘scenes’ and using voice control to set moods in the home has been contagious over the last few years, and the technology keeps getting better and better,” says Gannon. “Imagine saying, ‘Hey Josh, I’m ready to relax,’ and the lights dim to your desired preset, the shades lower, your favorite jazz album starts playing, and the fireplace turns on.”
According to Gannon, Josh.ai is the only control system with a voice assistant purpose-built for smart home control. The system allows you to have a normal conversation with your home without the need to memorize specific commands.
“Josh lets you speak more naturally, using compound commands and natural speech — just say what’s on your mind,” he says. “The advanced AI evolves and adapts over time to provide the most intuitive experience possible.” And for customers worried about privacy, Gannon says the system doesn’t use client information for marketing purposes or sell user data to third parties. Unlike mass-market voice assistants, Josh.ai has one focus: providing the best smart home experience possible.
Security systems can also be integrated into your smart home auto-
mation, which allows your security system to activate more features. As an example, Gannon says that when the kids get home and disarm the alarm, the system can automatically turn on certain lights as it sends you a text that they’ve arrived home safely. Another possible feature is flashing exterior lights that enable first responders to easily locate your home if your alarm is triggered.
At HiTech Smart Homes & Security, Owner Tony Vu sees homeowners really benefitting from security and smart home integrations like this.
“When everything works together, that’s when it really gets cool,” says Vu. “Your camera can turn on lights, your alarm can lock doors — stuff like that. You don’t want five different apps for your house — you want one system that just works.”
Vu says the most recent change in home security is just how much smarter systems are.
“Cameras don’t just see motion — they know the difference between a person, a car, or a dog,” says Vu. “That alone cuts down on so many false alerts and faster video extraction. Plus, everything lives in one app now, which homeowners really appreciate.”
According to Vu, there’s a common misconception that cameras alone equal security. While cameras are important, Vu says real security comes in layers: your alarm, sensors, and camera all working together. Another misconception, he says, is that these systems are complicated. Instead, customers are often surprised by how easy they are to use.
Homeowners new to security systems shouldn’t overthink their approach. Vu says to start with the basics — doors, windows, the alarm — and then maybe add a camera. You can always build from there. For security systems, there is usually a monthly cost for monitoring and for certain smart features, especially if you want video storage. Vu says it’s not just paying for equipment but paying for peace of mind.
Smart home systems — separate from security — don’t typically require monthly subscription fees, according to Gannon. However, a few do depending on the level of automation and monitoring required. Your electronics provider can help you pinpoint the best integrations for your needs and budget, and thankfully they’re the ones keeping up as the gales of change continue to blow.
“It’s very impressive today, and it’s only going to refine over time,” says Gannon. “This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to see what comes in the near future.”
Last Indulgence
Scents of Spring
A three-wick candle is your key to sophisticated scentscaping by
Melanie Warner Spencer
In recent years “scentscaping” has become de rigueur with luxury, high-fragrance candles blazing the path to homescented serenity. The height of indulgence in this fiery realm is, of course, the multi-wick candle. An irrational desire for the extravagant candles was hilariously spoofed in the (admittedly schmaltzy) 2025 Christmas movie, “Oh. What. Fun.,” starring Michelle Pfeiffer. Determined to one up her seemingly perfect neighbor’s holiday gift, Pfeiffer’s character — in a moment of stress-induced delirium — absconds from a store in the mall with an absurdly large, many wicked “hearth candle.” We do not recommend obtaining one in this manner. Rather, pop over to Eclectic for a Nest,
three-wick candle in Bamboo. An innovator of the genre, Nest New York launched in 2008 with its high-fragrance candles featuring clean, evenly burning wax with 100-hour burn time. Nest works with master perfumers to craft its candle’s exquisite aromas. The Bamboo fragrance is perfect for spring, with its fresh, green notes and whisper of citrus. The candle is poured in an elegant, 5-by 4.75-inch, etched-glass vessel, which is infinitely reusable as a vase for short-cut blooms or for a small potted plant. If the three-wick isn’t your style, Eclectic has you covered with Nest candles in various sizes and scents. eclectichome.net
