Chevy Chaser Magazine, March 2026

THE DESIGN ISSUE

A Modern Reset

With a focus on light, landscape and intentional design, an update turned into a full-blown transformation for this unique south Lexington home

Design Spotlight: Camel Club

A peek inside the stunning remodel of the historic Bell Court building

On Our Table

Mazunte Bodega shares a simple but versatile recipe that’s bursting with color and flavor

MORROW &

ORALAND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

Small Business Spotlight

Family-run home furnishing boutique and design center Mulberry & Lime celebrates 25 years in business

25 41 32 43

March tadoo list

The best art exhibits, performances & other cultural haps taking place in and around town

A state-of-the-art facility focusing on compassionate patient care.

Specializing in:

Contributors

Michelle Aiello is a Chicago-born writer, editor and indie publisher. Her interests include living room karaoke, snail mail and all things vintage. She contributes to our monthly “tadoo list” (our calendar of cultural happenings, page 43).

Jeremy Blum Photo & Video (photography for “A Modern Reset”)is a full-service media company specializing in real estate photography, videography, and virtual tours. Based in both Louisville and Lexington, the business has been serving the region for over 13 years. More details at jeremyblumphoto.com.

Smiley Pete contributor Shannon Clinton (“Craveworthy,” page 7) is an Elizabethtown native who now lives in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. A proud graduate of Western Kentucky University’s journalism program, she has been a full-time freelance writer for 21 years for publications across the Southeast. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending to her collections of vintage Pyrex and hot sauce.

With a passion for live music and Appalachia, Madylin Goins (photography for “Small-Business Spotlight: Mulberry & Lime”) is a Lexington-based journalist and photographer committed to promoting artists and the stories that keep the hills alive.

Tanzi Merritt (“A Modern Reset,” page 11, and “Design Spotlight: Camel Club,” page 25) is a Lexington native with a background in history, libraries and archives who works in the world of marketing by day and volunteers for many community organizations in her free time.

Fascinated by the elements that build the culture of a community Brent Owen (“Small-Business Spotlight: Mulberry & Lime,” page 32) has contributed to a variety of publications over the past two decades, including Kentucky Monthly, LEO Weekly and Voice-Tribune. ■

PUBLISHER: CHRIS EDDIE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: SARAYA BREWER

COPY EDITOR: NIKOLE CHRISTENSEN ART DIRECTOR: DREW PURCELL

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: AMY EDDIE, DONNA HODSDON, ANN STATON SALES MANAGER: EMILY MARKS EVENTS DIRECTOR: AMY EDDIE FOR MORE INFORMATION EMAIL: INFO@SMILEYPETE.COM FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION EMAIL: ADVERTISE@SMILEYPETE.COM TEL: 859.266.6537 WEB: SMILEYPETE.COM

New experiences are the paths to growth.

When you’re at Sayre School, knowledge is a journey.

Since 1854, we’ve believed that curiosity and a holistic education opens doors to multiple options for students in their lifetime. Through a multi-faceted teaching format, students learn about subjects as well as themselves, helping them chart a course toward their fullest potential.

Visit sayreschool.org to see how a Sayre School education can be a first step to a world of opportunities.

CRAVE WORTHY LOCAL CULINARY NEWS

BY SHANNON CLINTON

* With the philosophy, “simple service, simple choices,” a new kitchen concept called Clown-Face Burger Co., opened in early February inside the Euclid Avenue bar and music venue The Fishtank. Menu highlights include fries that are made inhouse and flavored with a Merquen-style seasoning —which blends smoky, citrusy and salty flavor profiles — and burger buns that are imprinted with a “silly little clown-faced brand,” said owner Keegan Reed, who has performed as a clown from Maine to New Orleans.

In other local food- and beverage-industry happenings:

* Hawaiian Bros. Island Grill’s expansion plans include four Lexington locations courtesy of Ohana Restaurant Group (ORG), according to a press release. Since 2023, ORG has opened locations in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, with other new locations also under construction.

The menu includes plate lunches with rice, macaroni salad and choices of protein that include Huli Huli, Molokai, Kilauea and Honolulu Chicken, seasoned vegetables and Luau Pig. Wraps and sides like Pineapple and Spam Musubi round out the menu.

Taste of Ukraine has opened on Maple Street in downtown Nicholasville, serving cabbage rolls, borscht and other traditional Ukrainian fare.

Nanobrewery and brewing supplies purveyor Brewer Dude held a grand reopening in February after relocating the taproom (beer, cider and seltzers served) a short distance away to 740 National Ave., Ste. 130, according to its social media.

Club Rise, a place for people who don’t drink alcohol or use substances to “enjoy music and the arts free from temptation” has opened at 2350 Woodhill Dr. Ste. 132, according to the club’s Facebook account. Recent events included a 90s hip hop and R&B night and sober karaoke.

Bugsy’s Entertainment is coming soon to 2049 Bryant Road, with axe throwing, bowling, an arcade, putt putt and a full bar and food, according to its Facebook page.

Tabla Indian Restaurant was listed in mid-February as coming soon to 2270 Nicholasville Rd. Ste 120. In addition to “an unforgettable dining experience with authentic flavors, vibrant dishes and a warm atmosphere,” a teaser post on Facebook also advertised a cocktail called Disco Melon; a colorful, layered Cassata ice cream dessert; naan; and curries and other rice-based dishes.

O cials with Donut World on West Main Street announced on Facebook that the store would close permanently Jan. 25.

Work has begun on a new Kroger on Winchester Road near Executive Drive.

Following a devastating fire about a year ago, Miyako Sushi & Steakhouse is under construction and according to its website, preparing for an April or May reopening at 2547 Richmond Road. ■

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From there, we’ll craft a comprehensive proposal, complete with a detailed 3D rendering that outlines every aspect of your project. Our innovative team ensures that form and function harmonize perfectly in your new space. We will guide you through each decision, capturing your vision down to the finest details. ■ BACK Construction is proud to sponsor the March design issue of Chevy Chaser and Southsider.

A MODERN RESET

WITH A FOCUS ON LIGHT, LANDSCAPE AND INTENTIONAL DESIGN, AN UPDATE TURNED INTO A FULL-BLOWN TRANSFORMATION FOR THIS UNIQUE CONTEMPORARY SOUTH LEXINGTON HOME

When Dr. Leland Irwin and Mona Rozovich decided to begin a new life together, they planned to sell their individual homes and find a house that was new to them both. After having trouble finding a buyer for Irwin’s home and not finding a new home they loved, the couple rethought their plan and decided a renovation of his south Lexington home would allow them a fresh start in a space perfectly designed just for them.

The unique U-shaped home, a 4,000+ square foot contemporary structure, was designed by award-winning architect Scott Guyon and constructed in 2000 with a small expansion, also designed by Guyon, in 2007. Located on 10 acres near the Shelby Branch of East Hickman Creek and overlooking Juddmonte Farms, the home sits in a peaceful rural setting not far from the amenities of the city.

Originally planning just an update and modernization of the main spaces, the couple engaged Jill Farfan of JAF Architect for the renovation, who used Showplace Company as the general contractor.

“We wanted someone with a fresh perspective,” Rozovich said, adding that Guyon was “so helpful and provided us with a lot of drawings and things.”

Irwin said he was drawn to Farfan, who has spent time living in both Los Angeles and Bolivia, because she had a variety of architectural perspectives.

“Initially, we thought to just update the main spaces, but when we saw Jill’s design, we’d walk into one of the other rooms that was 23 years old and think, ‘we just can’t leave the room like that,’” Irwin said. “The project kept expanding and expanding. We looked at the outside and saw things that needed improving, and one thing led to another until it was the whole house.”

overarching

The center of the home consists of an entryway flanked by two seating areas, with a dining area separated visually by the original grey brick fireplace, and a galleystyle kitchen.

The centerpiece of the kitchen is a counter area that Rozovich has called “the surfboard,” due to its distinct oval shape. The top, made of quartzite and sourced from Counter Culture, is white with a distinctive green accent. The slate flooring in the kitchen, installed during the 2007 renovation, and dark porcelain slab countertops help balance white ash and original bamboo flooring throughout the rest of the house. Many of the original materials and design choices were cutting-edge in 2000 and still fit perfectly with the home’s “Japandi” aesthetic — a design approach that blends elements of Japanese and Scandinavian design.

The seating area to the right of the entry was separated from the kitchen and dining room in the original floorplan.

“Logically, when people come to visit, especially when we’re having dinner, the tendency is to wander that way, so we decided [open it],” Irwin said.

The area to the left is more enclosed, with one wall created from a built-in cabinet made of white ash, and a half-wall that separates the space from a staircase to the basement on the other. These details create a second seating area that is cozier, and it is a perfect place for visitors to sit while the hosts work in the kitchen.

Though constrained from a fully open floor plan by the fireplace, Farfan instead made it a centerpiece. She said, “We contemplated painting it, but we really wanted to bring the outside in, and that is the same brick from the outside of the house. What I love about the joinery of that brick is that they emphasize the horizontal, and it is beautiful.”

Farfan put a lot of thought into the lighting which was installed in unexpected places like under the single step up into the dining area from the living area.

“All the lighting was completely redone, and everything is LED with dimmers, which is really important,” she said. “One of the things that I thought was very important, and I think is a sign of good architecture, was to install direct lighting. So, we created some alcoves where we have up-lighting, down-lighting, and side-lighting, and it all comes from the architecture.”

To one side of the home’s main space is a wing that contains the master bedroom and bath as well as a spacious laundry room and wellness room. While the original master bedroom housed an oversized closet, the new master is open and airy, anchored by both a curved built-in bookcase and builtin bed with an integrated headboard and down-lighting, and includes a small seating area. The changes allow for more natural light to reach the space.

Said Farfan, “I had never designed a bed before, so it was really a wonderful experience to do. We did curve radiuses around the bed, like with the bookcase, and there are no sharp corners.”

The wellness room, which originally housed a propeller pool, is now home to the couple’s exercise equipment and a hot tub. The room includes reclaimed redwood, which is ideal for the space with the humidity from the hot tub. It also features a unique area with a stone floor with drainage — an ideal place for caring for plants or doing other messy tasks.

With Farfan’s vision, even the laundry room is an inviting space.

“In the laundry room there were four closets and at least seven doors. We took out all the small closets that were not really needed, and took the wall down to pony height to open up the space and allow light to flow through,” said Farfan.

She added ample cabinetry for storage and a hand-washing sink. With fluted glass accents and a built-in bench with downlighting, the space is so welcoming that Rozovich said with a laugh, “I thought it’d be a great place for cocktails.”

On the opposite side of the central section, the other wing of the home houses an o ce and one of the two guest bedrooms.

Rozovich said, “The o ce didn’t change too much, except for a new built-in desk, which was very important for the flow. It’s a small space, and the large desk that was there before didn’t allow access to some of the cabinets and wasn’t a good use of the space.”

The guest bedrooms received a similar treatment as the master bedroom, with the spaces opened up to more light by opening up under-utilized closet space.

Back in the main area, Farfan expanded on the changes made to the dining area to allow more indoor-outdoor flow.

“Relaxing the body. Quieting the mind. Opening the heart.”

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OU R TEAM SPOTLIGHT:

SAMMY SHORES, Director of Operations

At Hortus Gardens, we know creating a beautiful landscape depends on skilled execution, clear communication, and devotion to detail. Each project is about the people we serve.

Sammy Shores leads our team under this ethic, carrying over 20 years of experience to his keen pursuit of excellence. Whether interacting with clients, crews, or contractors, Sammy knows that listening is as important as talking, demonstrating is clearer than telling. Sammy’s insight for team dynamics and operational logistics always elevates our work. Most notably, though, it is Sammy’s warm character that defines his role at Hortus Gardens.

“We completely opened this up by just taking out the windows and door and replacing it with a much larger glass door that opens up the room to the outside. They can leave it open a lot during the warmer days, and the view is spectacular,” she said.

The home’s bathrooms were all renovated as well. While the original porcelain bathtubs were left in place, the sinks were all replaced with ramp sinks from Germany, and porcelain tile sourced from Louisville Tile was installed.

“We used large format porcelain tile panels for the walls, and they’re spectacular,” Farfan said.

Though the home’s color palette is neutral throughout, one spot breaks from the rest.

“This is where we had some fun,” said Farfan, as she opens the door to the main area’s powder room, which is dark and decorated with jewel tones.

The home is rounded out by the finished

basement, which is outfitted with recliners for television and movie watching, and a pool table. Built into the hillside, one wall of the basement is made of windows, and the couple and their guests can access the outdoor seating areas directly. The second guest bedroom is also located in the basement.

According to Farfan, the guiding theme to the home is “balanced asymmetry.”

“The house is extremely symmetrical, so we just made some subtle moves to make it slightly less asymmetrical but in a balanced way,” she said. “Much of what we did involved natural light, and the changes we made completely opened up the view and changed the experience of the space and how you can use it.”

Though the couple had originally thought to start out in a new space, they are thrilled that those plans changed. Said Rozovich, “I wake up every day, and I can’t believe we live here — it’s like a dream. Jill dreamed even bigger than I did with her vision, and Jim Smith with Showplace made those dreams come true.” ■

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TACO ‘BOUT IT!

LEXINGTON TACO WEEK MARCH 9-15

LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT!

Enjoy chef-driven, o -menu tacos all week long from 20+ of Lexington’s best local restaurants.

Expect bold flavors and creative bites with vegetarian, vegan, meat, and gluten-friendly options at select spots (check the app for locations & descriptions!).

Each participating restaurant will feature $8 Taco Plates, available for one delicious week only.

DON’T MISS TACO TRIVIA PREVIEW NIGHT!

Kick things o early at Wise Bird Cider March 8 | 5-8 p.m. Enjoy Little Fork’s veggie and meat tacos + a cider of your choice for $14*

Download the Lexington Taco Week App and check in at 5 or more locations to win!

*Must be 21+ to enjoy this specialunder 21 welcome to try the $8 taco plates! Taco Trivia + prizes throughout the night

Grand Prize:

A Condado Tacos Party Pack — a catered taco spread that feeds 20 of your friends + 10 Kentucky Theatre movie tickets + $30 Wisebird Cider Gift Card

5 lucky winners who check in at 3 or more locations will win restaurant gift cards and Kentucky Theatre tickets.

Winners will be contacted via email on March 17.

PLAN YOUR TACO TRAIL.

Download the Lexington Taco Week app to:

• Check in

• Win prizes

• Rate your favorite tacos

• Track every bite

Meet Our Sponsor:

Nationally known and proudly Kentucky grown, Wise Bird Cider Co. is the state’s first and only cidery — crafting small-batch, awardwinning ciders made exclusively from real fruit, never from concentrate.

With a commitment to locally sourced apples, transparent ingredients and time-honored cider traditions, Wise Bird delivers a naturally gluten-free, flavor-forward alternative to mass-produced beverages. From orchard to glass, every pour reflects the company’s belief in quality, authenticity and community.

What began as a passion project for founders Tim and Greta Wright has grown into a nationally recognized brand, boasting more than 20 major cider awards, two Kentucky locations, statewide distribution, and placements in retailers like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods and Total Wine, with Kroger launching in 2026.

Beyond cider, Wise Bird has cultivated a welcoming gathering space, a vibrant events program, and an innovative food concept, Little Fork, o ering creative, inclusive fare. With “Wisdom in Every Sip,” Wise Bird continues to build a thriving community around one of America’s oldest and most exciting beverages.

Download the Lexington Taco week app to view all the restaurants and their taco o erings. Check in at these locations to win food, gift cards, movie tickets, and more!

JOSEPH HILLENMEYER GARDEN DESIGN

JOSEPHHILLENMEYER.COM

LAND-GUIDED

GARDEN DESIGN

At Joseph Hillenmeyer Garden Design we create spaces for connection and meaning, places with context and history. We bring new solutions to timeless tradition and practicality to our art. We derive inspiration from the bigger landscape in which each project is situated, knowing that meaningful outdoor spaces expand our lives. The best landscapes bridge architecture to nature and draw us outside. In each design, we aim to pair elegance with simplicity, to balance abundance with restraint, and to communicate a sense of grace.

DESIGN SPOTLIGHT

CAMEL CLUB

Camel Club, one of Lexington’s growing number of private social clubs, sits on the corner of Main Street and Forest Avenue in the distinctive pink house that serves as a landmark for the Historic Bell Court Neighborhood.

The structure, which has lived many lives in the last century, now o ers up 14,000 square feet of lush, richly designed space to club members, offering them a place to work, socialize, relax and dine in comfort with a touch of luxury.

Built in 1906, the building’s first residents included the family of Louis des Cognets, a bank executive and founder of the Phoenix Hotel Company, Lexington Ice Manufacturing Company, Lexington Gas Company, and the Louis des Cognets Company, which was once the largest highway contractor in the south.

“It was a single family house for a long while, and then, for a time in the ’60s and ’70s, it was actually a fraternity house,” said Tyler Bromagen, who owns Camel Club with partners Field Ladd, William Ryan and Brian Babbage. “They even built a pulley system to bring kegs up from the basement to the third floor.”

The building’s next life was as the home of Zee Faulkner’s Antiques. According to Bromagen, when Zee Faulkner bought it, she added on to the building and built the walls around the property.

“At one time she spent a summer living in a pink Italian villa, and she wanted to paint this building the same pink,” Bromagen added. “Unfortunately, it was impossible to find a match for this very particular shade.

“One day she was driving around New York and saw a house painted the exact pink she had been searching for,” Bromagen said. “She knocked on the door to ask about the paint, and the owners gave her the last can they had so she could replicate it.”

When it was time for Faulkner to retire, the building changed hands once again, this time becoming both home and business to the family of Camel Club partner Field Ladd.

The Ladds took up residence on the upper floors, while the first floor housed the family business Cross Gate Gallery. After nearly 30 years, the Ladds were ready to move back into a more conventionally-sized house, so they made plans to relocate Cross Gate Gallery as well.

Located in the historic Bell Court building that formerly housed Cross Gate Gallery, the private social club Camel Club has adopted an eclectic design inspired by Lexington as well as a global perspective. The art includes commissioned works, vintage prints, photography, abstract pieces, as well as found objects with interesting backstories.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAMEL CLUB

“That’s when Field called me up to talk about preserving the building. He asked me to help figure out a way he could keep it and preserve it, and that’s what we did,” explained Bromagen.

After discussing a variety of business ideas, Bromagen, an entrepreneur responsible for Frankfort’s historic Ashbrook Hotel, and Ladd finally settled on a private social club. The two teamed up with Babbage and Ryan, and they partnered with New York City-based hotelier Hank Morris, founder of hotel development and management firm Morris & Atlas.

From the moment you cross the threshold, Camel Club feels both elegant and warm, with an aesthetic that blends traditional Lexington style with quirky, modern elements.

“We wanted Camel Club to feel distinctly Lexington, with interiors inspired by the landscape of the Bluegrass, the character of historic horse farms, and the architecture and interiors of classic Lexington homes, but interpreted through a more eccentric, global lens,” said Morris, who undertook the design process in partnership with New York-based Jenny Bukovec Interiors. “Much of the design inspiration comes directly from Lexington, which we’ve tried to express using materials, finishes and details that aren’t typically seen here.”

Upon entry, the eye is immediately drawn to Camila, a camel painted by French artist Jean-Bernard Lalanne. The 10 x 8’ painting was commissioned specifically for the space from Lalanne, who has a long-standing relationship with the Ladd family and Cross Gate Gallery. To the right, members can visit the Camel Bar Lounge where they can choose to sit at the tile-fronted bar, on one of the sofas by the fire, or at a banquette that wraps around the front half of the room.

To the left of the entry, guests can choose from the Parlor or the Library. The Parlor is a bright, airy space filled with natural light and anchored by a working fireplace painted a natural leafy green that beautifully accents the olive tinted tiles. The Library, by contrast, is a moodier space. A deep maroon ceiling and dark woodwork are a perfect accent for the darker wood furnishings and deep red fabrics. Another working fireplace creates a cozy room in which to read, have co ee, or enjoy a cocktail.

The first floor is rounded out by the Rec Room, where members can listen to music or play games, which assistant general manager Samantha Kline describes as having “a funky ’70s garage vibe.

HIGH ENERGY BILLS?

LOWER YOUR BILLS BY MAKING SURE YOUR HVAC IS WORKING CORRECTLY & EFFICIENTLY.

Ask the Home Services Expert with

Record high electric bill? You are not alone! Many people have reached out to me with their highest bill ever.

Question: I just had my highest electricity bill ever. It was almost double what I paid the same time last year. What’s going on and how can I fix it?

–Dorthy, Lexington

Answer: Several things have caused this, and it’s not just the weather. First, KU just received the largest rate increase in my memory at 9%, but it’s not just the rate that increases, all of the associated taxes and fees go up too. Unfortunately, the effective increase is going to feel more like 15%, which is substantial. Historically Kentucky homes use about 25% more energy than the national average, largely because we’ve had cheap power for so long, but those days are over. KU actually applied for a much larger increase, and the Attorney General negotiated the smaller increase. Utility companies are guaranteed a profit by the Kentucky public service commission, so if they can demonstrate their expenses have increased, they can and will come back for an additional rate increase next year. Second, we had snow and ice

on the ground for a record amount of time with below freezing temperatures. Believe it or not the snow actually sucks the heat from your home, driving up those utility bills. On top of that, we spent a lot of time with cloudy overcast skies. So, your home did not get the benefit of the sun shining helping to heat up your house. The lack of sun, added snow packed around the house, and KU’s rate increase literally added up to a perfect storm for high heating bills.

Question: I know my house could be more efficient, but I don’t know where to start. What’s the highest impact home improvement I could start with?

–Lauren, Lexington

Answer: 70% of your winter bill is from your heating system so that’s always a good place to start. Get a comprehensive tune up from a high quality HVAC professional. Make sure they check that the inside and outside is 100% clean. A 1/16th of a inch of dust will lower both the efficiency and capacity of your HVAC making

it cost more and run longer, which adds up to higher bills than necessary. Also make sure you get a duct inspection to make sure all of your vents are connected and functioning properly. We regularly find issues on houses from the original installation, and we also find these issues on houses that are 30 years old that have had numerous HVAC systems over the years. The previous HVAC guys just never caught the issues, mainly because they never checked. The HVAC industry tends to assume the guy that was there before them did their job. An older study out of North Carolina found that 93% of existing HVAC systems were installed improperly causing significant performance issues driving higher bills and more frequent breakdowns. I could write a book on the issues I’ve found here in central KY from the original install that dozens of people missed over the years.

Questions about your home’s efficiency, comfort, or air quality? Email info@mysynergyhome.

Call Synergy Home for a free estimate for any of your home improvement

“Members go in and pop a record on the turntable, play shu eboard or Monopoly, or watch TV,” she explained.

At the top of the stairs, guests are greeted by the sixseat Gallery Bar, which, with its tile front, modern wallpaper, and chinoiserie-backed shelves, uses maximalism in a small space to create an intimate experience. Also on the second floor are a theater, a study, a 10-seat board room with state-of-the-art conferencing capabilities, and a co-working/event space.

The attached full-service kitchen also allows the space to be used for food events like their Chef’s Series of five-course meals or cooking classes.

Outside on the first floor, the Camel Club’s Garden and Veranda spaces feature a bocce ball court, outdoor television, two fire pits and outdoor seating areas. A terrace on the second floor also o ers outdoor seating and a fire pit.

The eclectic feel of Camel Club is no accident.

“The interiors of Camel Club are intentionally layered and eclectic, and the furnishings reflect that approach,” Morris said. “Nearly everything in the club

was either sourced vintage or custom made specifically for the space.

“Vintage furnishings and objets d’art were gathered from four continents, and more than three-quarters of the seating, casegoods, built-ins, lighting and decorative elements were produced as one-of-a-kind pieces. We also collaborated with some of our favorite local vintage sources, including Scout Antique & Modern and Feather Your Nest.”

While much of the custom furniture and finishes came from Morris & Atlas’ long-standing artisan partnerships in Morocco and North Africa, designers also used a handful of domestic fabricators and artisans, including upholstery and detailing elements completed by Lexington-area businesses.

The building’s history as a gallery is still evident in the decor, with an extensive collection of art hanging throughout the building.

“We approached the art at Camel Club the same way we approached the rest of the design,” Morris said. “We wanted it to feel like a personal collection rather than a formal gallery display.”

Much of the club’s custom furniture and finishes came from developer Morris & Atlas’ long-standing artisan partnerships in Morocco and North Africa. A handful of domestic fabricators and artisans were utilized as well, with some items sourced locally from Scout Antique & Modern and Feather Your Nest.

The core of the framed collection was generously provided on loan by Cross Gate Gallery, prioritizing pieces “that step a little outside the expected,” including abstract works, sketches, nudes, and modern compositions that add contrast and energy within the historic setting, he added.

The team gives much credit to general contractor Elaine Allen, whom Morris said was instrumental in bringing the project to life. In addition, a number of local businesses were part of the project, including Classic Finishes for limewash and plaster

work, Britcraft for millwork and carpentry, Tim Lewis Wallpaper, and Mark Smith for wood restoration.

“Ultimately, we wanted the space to feel like the home of a well-traveled owner who had spent years collecting objects and materials from around the world and bringing them back to Lexington,” said Morris. “Our goal was for the space to feel collected rather than decorated — as if it had come together naturally over many years, with every piece carrying its own story and sense of place.” ■

BY

MULBERRY & LIME

STORY BY BRENT OWEN PHOTOS BY MADYLIN GOINS

In 1909, Italian immigrant Hannibal Buchignani owned a neighborhood meat market on North Limestone while raising six kids in a tiny upstairs apartment. One afternoon he strolled across the street to the Matthew Kennedy House, which was being auctioned o . Upon his return to the shop, his wife asked who bought the old place. “We did!” he told her.

More than a century and five generations later, the home remains in the family. It was eventually passed down to Mary Ginocchio, who opened the boutique Mulberry & Lime in 2001.

Twenty-five years later, Mulberry & Lime is still a favorite destination for home furnishings that blend timeless elegance with modern sensibility. For owner Mary Ginocchio and her daughter, lead designer Annie Marcum, the quartercentury celebration is as much about family and history as it is about interior design. They will mark the milestone with a series of celebrations in the months to come.

Mulberry & Lime occupies the historic Matthew Kennedy House, a stately structure built around 1815. Kennedy, known best for his classical-style buildings, designed the house as his primary residence, incorporating details that have inspired generations. Today, the building not only provides an exceptionally homey backdrop for the store’s varied displays but also acts as Mary’s home.

“I grew up in this house,” Annie Marcum says, from the newly remodeled design room of Mulberry & Lime. “I’m the fifth generation in our family to have lived here. My mother and I both really did grow up with this building around us, and we get to share it with our customers every day.”

With bed linens, furniture, tabletop items, gifts, jewelry, bath products and even a section of curated children’s toys forming the backbone of the store’s o erings, Mulberry & Lime has o ered more than home furnishings since its inception. Recently, the shop expanded its services to include fullscale interior design consultations.

“We do everything from window treatments and space optimization to lighting, floors and tile,” Marcum explained. “It’s almost a full-service design experience now. And of course, we still do wedding registries and curated tabletop collections.”

Marcum’s design aesthetic leans toward a maximalist English style with modern twists, often blending new furnishings with vintage and even some antique pieces. This approach has drawn a diverse clientele, balanc-

ing the tastes of younger and older generations alike.

“People sometimes come to us specifically for my opinion, sometimes for my mom’s,” Marcum said. “It’s an interesting dynamic, and it works really well for our team approach.”

Reflecting on her own path to the family business, Marcum said she initially resisted the idea of working in the store, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. But after working briefly elsewhere for a year, she came on full-time in 2020, embracing the opportunity to blend her business skills with her passion for design. “Every class I took in college, I kept relating it back to the store,” she said. “It was like I couldn’t escape the fact that this is where I needed to be.”

“I don’t think a lot of people get to spend this much time with their child, once they’re of a certain age and independent,” Ginnochio said of working with her daughter. “I really feel fortunate that I get to see her most days. I’m not going to say it’s always a smooth ride, but we work through it. It’s really rewarding, for sure.”

Mulberry & Lime also regularly participates in Lexington’s Gallery Hop, exhibiting work from local or locally a liated artists like Kim Comstock, Debbie Gravis, Nori Hall and Lori Larusso on the shop walls as well as in a small gallery space upstairs. The store also offers workshops and design consultations, further cementing its role as a cultural and creative hub for the community.

This is essential, because like Ginnochio, many of the business owners in the area don’t just work in the neighborhood, they also live there — which is not the case everywhere. The business has become less

The shop’s inventory features a variety of beautifully designed textiles, linens and home furnishings. Interior design services are also available.

about building an economy and more about building a community, Ginocchio said. “Three di erent families [of neighborhood business owners] have kids under the age of two,” she added. “It’s so nice to see another generation coming along.”

As Mulberry & Lime marks a quartercentury, the store embodies the enduring appeal of blending history, design and family legacy. From Hannibal Buchignani’s bold auction purchase to Annie Marcum’s modern design sensibilities, the shop continues to evolve while honoring the layers of history that molded it.

For visitors, the anniversary is an invitation not just to explore home furnishings but to step into a living piece of Lexington’s past. With its blend of historical architecture, contemporary design and community engagement, Mulberry & Lime stands as a testament to the enduring value of family, creativity and preservation.

This year’s 25th anniversary celebration aims to honor both the store’s legacy and the home’s historic roots. Mulberry & Lime is hosting a series of four tour dates spotlighting Matthew Kennedy’s architectural contributions to the region. Led by Kennedy expert Wes Francis, the tours will visit multiple Kennedy-designed sites in the area, where Francis will educate attendees about the architect’s work and highlight the features that make these buildings remarkable.

All tours are ticketed events. The tour schedule currently includes the following locations, with the full schedule to be announced soon:

• April 12: Mulberry & Lime, with tea provided by Lexington Tea & Brie

• May 17: Richland (often referred to as the “Kinkead House”)

• Date TBD: Bluegrass Distillery at Elkwood Farm

Beyond architecture, the anniversary underscores a broader mission: promoting the preservation and health of historic homes.

“Living in a historic home comes with responsibilities,” said Marcum. “Part of what we want to do is show people how important it is to maintain these structures not just for history, but for community.” ■

Pico de Gallo

RECIPE AND PHOTO BY MAZUNTE BODEGA

Mazunte Bodega, a Cincinnati-based Mexican restaurant and bar with a location in Lexington’s Distillery District, o ers a wide variety of flavorful Mexican entrées, appetizers and beverage options, as well as private dining, event and catering services. They’ve shared their recipe for pico de gallo, a simple but classic dish that’s bursting with bright colors and flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped

• ¼ red onion, chopped

• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped

• 1 tablespoon of fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• Juice of half a lime

Method:

Toss all ingredients in a large bowl and serve with tortilla chips or use as a sauce for tacos, seafood or other entrées. ■

Events Calendar

CONCERTS & GIGS

The Bad Plus. March 3. Long known for reimagining the jazz trio format as a highwire experimental unit, The Bad Plus brings its restless, genre-defying approach to a program featuring collaborators Chris Potter and Craig Taborn, drawing inspiration from Keith Jarrett’s American Quartet. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www.scfatickets.com

J. Roddy Walston. March 5. After years fronting the rock outfit J. Roddy Walston and the Business, which dissolved in 2019, Walston is now touring with a group called The Automatic Band,

continuing his tradition of piano-driven rock songs steeped in classic soul, bar-band grit and Southern bravado. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

Barry Manilow. March 9. A master craftsman of pop songwriting, Barry Manilow delivers a hit-packed set spanning decades of piano-driven ballads and arena favorites, performed with the polish and warmth that turned his catalog into a shared cultural memory. 7 p.m. Rupp Arena, 430 W. Vine St. www.rupp.com

Immanuel Wilkins: Blues Blood. March 12. Rising jazz saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins presents “Blues Blood,” a deeply personal project weaving together jazz, spoken word and history,

shaped by themes of lineage, Black identity and collective memory. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www.scfatickets.com

Vinyl Richie: Studio 54. March 14. Local outfit Vinyl Richie will spin a disco-fueled night inspired by the iconic Studio 54 era, packed with dance-floor classics and funk grooves. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

An Evening with Christopher Cross. March 17. Known for singles that include “Sailing” and “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do),” the grammy-winning singer-songwriter who has been performing for more than four decades will bring his smooth melodic rock to the Opera House. 8 p.m. Lexington Opera House,

401 W. Short St. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com

Yonder Mountain String Band. March 19. These veterans of the modern bluegrass movement fuse traditional picking with rock energy and extended improvisation, helping redefine what contemporary string music can sound like. 8 p.m. Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. www. manchestermusichall.com

Troubadour Concert Series: Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives. March 19. Country and roots icon Marty Stuart leads his longtime band through a set steeped in classic Americana, sharp musicianship and reverence for tradition. 7:30 p.m. Kentucky Theatre, 214 E. Main St. www. kentuckytheatre.com

Grammy-nominated saxophonist and composer Immanuel Wilkins will perform at the Singletary Center for the Arts on March 12.

PHOTO FURNISHED

Singletary Center Expansive Sounds: Chuck Johnson and Clarice Jensen. March 21. Two acclaimed experimental composers present a collaborative evening of immersive soundscapes and textured string-based compositions. 7:30 p.m. Singletary Center for the Arts, 405 Rose St. www. scfatickets.com

Railroad Earth. March 21. Known for blending bluegrass instrumentation with folk storytelling and jam-band exploration, Railroad Earth delivers sprawling sets built on narrative songwriting and communal energy. The genrespanning regional outfit Hot Brown Smackdown will open. 8 p.m. Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. www. manchestermusichall.com

Journey: Final Frontier Tour. March 22. Arena-rock legends Journey brings soaring vocals and timeless anthems like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Any Way You Want It” and “Faithfully” to a career-spanning live show built for sing-alongs. 7:30 p.m. Rupp Arena, 430 W. Vine St. www.rupp.com

Ark Band: Bob Marley Tribute. March 22. Ohio-based reggae group Ark Band will honor Bob Marley’s enduring legacy with faithful, high-energy renditions of reggae classics rooted in messages of unity, resistance and joy. 7 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

Pat Metheny. March 25. One of jazz’s most influential guitarists, Pat Metheny brings decades of innovation across jazz, fusion and experimental music to an intimate evening highlighting his expansive musical language on this tour celebrating his album, “Side-Eye III+.” 8 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com

Paul McDonald and the Mourning Doves

MAR 26

Americana songwriter Paul McDonald brings roots-driven songs and soulful storytelling backed by the Mourning Doves. 8 p.m. The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. www.theburlky.com

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ART & EXHIBITS

LexArts HOP. March 20. Downtown galleries, project spaces and pop-up venues open their doors for Lexington’s monthly art hop, featuring new exhibitions, artist talks and live demonstrations across multiple locations. 5-8 p.m. Various locations. www.lexarts.org

Gnatland: Neon Organisms of the New Age. On display through March 13. This immersive exhibition pairs neonsaturated works by Morgan Hardigree with biomorphic assemblages by Jason Kash, creating a glowing environment that explores transformation, mutation and material play. Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 1-5 p.m.; Sat.-Mon., by appointment. 2nd Story, 522 W. Short St. www.2ndstory.art

Jonathan Jonathan: Surreal Lexington 2025: A Year in Photos. On display through March 27. Working exclusively with in-camera multiple exposure large-format photography, local photographer Jonathan Jonathan layers light and time to reimagine Lexington as a surreal landscape shaped by myth, memory and playful mischief. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat., noon-5 p.m., and by appointment. Loudoun House, 209 Castlewood Dr. www.lexingtonartleague.org

Meg Mitchell’s “A Fragile Unfolding.” On display through April 3. Meg Mitchell builds a digital environment inside a physical installation, using game-development tools to create a world with no goals or “winning” — just drifting ice islands, light beams and an ambient soundscape that turns wandering into the point. Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 1-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., and by appointment. 2nd Story, 522 W. Short St. www.2ndstory.art

“Extended Family.” On display March 4-April 4. Serving as an introduction and a sampling of work reflecting shared histories and fresh perspective, the first exhibition in the new gallery opening in the space formerly occupied by New Editions Gal-

lery features Lexington artists who previously exhibited at New Editions, alongside Louisville artists who currently show with the Louisville location of WheelHouse Art. Gallery hours: 12-5 p.m., Wed.-Sat. WheelHouse Art, 500 W. Short St. www.wehelhouse.art

Greg Reynolds: “Double Life.” On display March 13-April 25. Institute 193’s newest solo exhibition brings together two long-term photographic projects by Kentucky-born photographer Greg Reynolds: “Evidence,” intimate images of his Kentucky family and home, and “Possibly Maybe,” portraits of men that span friends, strangers and lovers across New York City and Berlin. A former youth minister raised in a Southern Baptist culture, Reynolds came out in his 30s and spent four decades documenting the parallel worlds he inhabits, creating work that is deeply personal and visually striking. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m., by appointment. Institute 193, 215 N. Limestone Ave. www.institute193.org

ETC.

University of Kentucky Opera Theatre: “Nation of Others.” March 6-8. This contemporary operatic work explores identity and displacement through bold staging and modern composition. Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com

Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. March 14. Downtown Lexington turns green with a full-day celebration of Irish culture. The annual parade and free outdoor festival features traditional pipe and drum bands, Irish dancers, and live sets from local favorites and visiting Irish acts. The day kicks o at 10:45 a.m. with the Blessing of the Keg and continues with music, food and family-friendly festivities throughout the afternoon. Henry A. Tandy Centennial Plaza and Fifth Third Pavilion. www.lexingtonstpatsparade.org

Lexington Taco Week. March 9-15. More than 20 local restaurants will feature chef-driven, o -menu tacos all week long. Each participating restaurant will feature a special $8 taco plate for one week only. For a full list of participating restaurants, taco descriptions, and other details. visit www.cravetacoweek or download the Lexington Taco Week app.

Studio Players: “The Diary of Anne Frank. “ March 19-Apr. 5. A powerful theatrical adaptation of Anne Frank’s wartime diary unfolds through intimate staging and nuanced performances, bringing one of history’s most personal accounts of courage and confinement to the stage. Fri., Sat. and opening night, 7:30 p.m. Sun., 2:30 p.m. Carriage House Theatre, 154 W. Bell Ct. www.studioplayers.org

“Chicago: The Musical.” March 20-22. The long-running Broadway classic returns with its razor-sharp satire of fame, corruption and celebrity justice, set to a jazz-infused score packed with iconic numbers like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango.” Fri., 7:30 p.m; Sat., 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. www.lexingtonoperahouse.com

Kentucky Writers Hall of Fame. March 30. This annual event coordianted by the Carnegie Center for Literacy & Learning is designed to recognize outstanding Kentucky writers and to educate people about the state’s rich literary history and culture. This year's class of inductees includes Silas House, Je Worley, Marcia Thornton Jones and Debbie Dade, all of whom will br present at the ceremony, free and open to the public. 7 p.m. Kentucky Theatre, 215 E. Main St. carnegiecenterlex.org ■

SMILEY PETE’S RETAIL GUIDE

PETE’S PROPERTIES

Residential Property Transactions

40502

321 Richmond Ave. $319,900

3408 Bellefonte Dr. $360,000

765 Zandale Dr. $547,000

3474 Belvoir Dr. $580,000

3276 Nantucket Dr. $583,722

346 Preston Ave. $589,000

217 Owsley Ave. $590,000

1814 Richmond Rd. $590,000

132 Victory Ave. $773,200

990 Cooper Dr. $813,000

336 Ridgeway Rd. $845,000

1208 Trumpeter Row $906,950

103 Irvine Rd. $1,155,000

2132 Woodmont Dr. $1,250,000

1917 Hart Rd. $1,475,000

2029 Lakeside Dr. $1,600,000

4065 Forsythe Dr. $389,000 1381 Corona Dr. $450,000 40515

733 Pinnacle Ct. $290,000

733 Pinnacle Ct. $330,000

4521 Largo Ln. $399,000 4313 Palm Springs Pt $434,900

4609 Hobbs Way $449,000 576 Alderbrook Way $477,000 1021 Turnbridge Rd. $480,000 2173 Broadhead Pl. $577,000

3940 Mooncoin Way $620,000

4858 Hartland Pkwy. $710,000 ■

Recent arm’s length residentialsales for this magazine’s distribution area. Information compiledby Fayette County Property Valuation Administrator David O’Neill. For more information on any of these properties,or others,pleasevisitwww.fayettepva.