Cincinnati July/August 2023

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CONTENTS 

JULY/AUGUST 2023 • GREATER CINCINNATI 

8 housetrends.com 

18 

CONTINUING A LEGACY 

Family home honors the past, present and future

YOU DESERVE the best 

Graber Window Treatments 

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SUNDAY closed to be with family 

Some items shown in ad are for example only and may not be available for purchase 

HTCI0723.004

CONTENTS 

JULY/AUGUST 2023 • GREATER CINCINNATI 

FEATURES 

APPLIANCES 

HAPPENING IN THE HOOD 

Ventilation tips to keep your kitchen 

clean, safe and smoke-free 

33 

DEPARTMENTS 

INSPIRED 

IDEAS 

Celebrating the colors 

of summer 

14 

WINDOWS 

INVITING THE OUTSIDE IN 

Windows and doors frame the view 

and open up the flow 

39 

OUTDOOR RUGS 

Transform your patio or deck 

from drab to fab 

60 

KITCHEN 

NOD TO NATURE 

Makeover introduces calming colors 

and easier outdoor access 

42 

AD 

INDEX 

Local home and garden pros 

72 

NEW HOME 

WHITE OPEN SPACES 

New home built with breathing 

room in mind 

50 

TOURS 

TALL, SLIM AND STYLING 

Urban homes show vertical possibilities 

63 

ON THE COVER 

EXCEPTIONAL HOMES & GARDENS 

New Home Honors The Past 

WHITE OPEN SPACES | VENTILATION TIPS | KITCHEN NODS TO NATURE 

GREATER CINCINNATI | JULY/AUGUST 2023 | HOUSETRENDS.COM 

A dramatic, inviting reading 

room stands just off the 

main entry and introduces 

the striking interior design 

running throughout this 

8,700-square-foot home. 

See more starting on 

page 18. 

Photo by Corrie Schaffeld 

10 housetrends.com

Style 

your 

Summer. 

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Create your own custom options or shop our expansive showroom for exclusive deals 

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7 1 0 0 H O U S T O N R D | F L O R E N C E , K Y 4 1 0 4 2 | 8 5 9 . 3 7 1 . 9 9 2 9 

HTCI0723.017

WELCOME LETTER 

Our staff sometimes feels like we are living 

in a bit of a groundhog’s type of scenario 

when it comes to selecting covers for our magazines. Quite often, the 

clear choice is a striking kitchen with an oversized center island seen 

from the back of three or four inviting barstools. But there’s a reason 

for that. We feature lots of kitchens because that’s what our readers 

request. They want to know about hot trends and classic choices 

before they invest in minor upgrades or major remodels. 

This issue of Housetrends® still features those essential kitchens, 

but we are happy to report we are also giving you a grand tour of two 

expansive modern farmhouse style homes along with eight urban 

abodes—all showcasing incredibly varied design styles. 

On paper, the homes featured on pages 18 and 50, might sound 

similar. Both are newly-built homes measuring over 8,000 square feet, 

sitting on a great deal of acreage. Both were very carefully designed 

with planned precision by their female homeowners. Both are home 

to four active children. Both have wide open floor plans with an easy 

flow for families or entertaining. 

But take a closer look at each and you will see strikingly different 

styles both women used to achieve their goals. One home is comprised 

of crisp, clean neutrals with a sleek, uncluttered feel. The other 

mixes and matches new and antique pieces and has bursts of color and 

family mementos strategically placed. 

Both homes are magnificent but take a look for yourself and see if 

you have a preference. 

And while you’re at it, let us know what you think. We love to hear 

from our readers—even if that means they want to see more photos 

of kitchens. 

Thanks for reading. 

Karen Bradner 

EDITOR 

Publishers 

Linda Bacher and Florence Murphy 

Sales Associate Evelyn Yaus 

Editor Karen Bradner 

Creative Director Gina Miller 

Quality Control Specialist 

Heather Fox 

Contributing Writers 

Sarah J. Dills, Lee Rhodes 

Contributing Photographers 

Eman Barri, Matthew Garsky, 

Greg Grupenhof, Connie Kimsey, 

Corrie Schaffeld, Kelly Ann Settle, 

Ross Van Pelt 

CORPORATE 

Corporate Managing Partners 

Robert J. Slattery, Kevin Slattery 

Print Services 

Dawn Deems 

Production Manager 

Connie Kimsey 

Advertising Information 

513-703-6103 

linda.bacher@housetrends.com 

Editorial Inquiries 

publishers@housetrends.com 

Housetrends magazine is published by 

Buzz Publications, LLC 

4866 Cooper Rd., Suite 202 

Cincinnati, OH 45242 

Robert J. Slattery, 

President and CEO, Buzz Publications, LLC. 

© 2023 Buzz Publications, LLC. Housetrends magazine is published and produced 

by Buzz Publications. All rights reserved. All logos and trademarks are the properties 

of their respective owners. We assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, 

omissions or any inconsistency herein. Housetrends makes no warranties, 

representations or endorsements regarding any of the services and/or the 

advertisers, builders, designers or any third parties appearing in the magazine. 

No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any 

means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage or 

retrieval system, without the written permission of Buzz Publications, LLC except where prohibited by 

law. Buzz Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit, alter, or omit any advertiser. 

12 housetrends.com

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14 housetrends.com

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18 housetrends.com

Continuing a legacy 

Family home honors the past, present and future 

BY GINA MILLER | PHOTOS BY CORRIE SCHAFFELD 

housetrends magazine 2023 19

My friend Kathy is a planner. Anyone who knows her, knows her love of 

binders and organizing. So when she and her husband Jim began planning 

what would be their forever home, after purchasing 21 acres in 2018, Kathy 

grabbed her page protectors and got busy. Today, those binders filled with 

photos of doorknobs, faucets, paint colors, cabinetry and closets serve as 

documentation for every inch of their beautiful 8,700-square-foot home. 

But what got Kathy super excited was digging up details of the land and the 

family who lived there before hers. 

20 housetrends.com

1 Gleaming hardwood floors in a herringbone pattern greet 

guests at the main entry. 2 A framed county map shows the Line 

family’s original plot. 3 While the well is original to the property 

the well’s overstructure was reconstructed in 2010. 

1 

2 

3 

History nerd 

Kathy, who lovingly calls herself a history nerd, dove deep into the 

history of the land. She traced the property and the original owners, 

the Line family, back to 1797, when Benjamin Line, a captain in the 

Revolutionary War, first came to the area. Her research took her all 

the way up to 2009 when Mr. Hiteshue, grandson of Laura Belle 

Line, passed away, sadly ending the Line family’s connection to the 

property. 

No one else has lived on this land until 2021 when Kathy and her 

family moved into the circa 1897 cottage that remained on the property. 

While living here they began construction on their new home, 

which they named Mulberry Ridge, after a large mulberry tree they 

loved on the property. 

“We have a strange kinship to the Lines. They feel like extended 

family in some way. I think they would approve of what we have done 

here,” Kathy says. ➻ 


Building the dream 

Choosing Wieland Builders was an easy decision for Jim since he and Jeff Wieland have been friends 

since they were five years old. 

“There wasn’t even a choice when we were considering a builder. Wieland Builders’ quality of work 

coupled with Jeff’s and my friendship made it a no brainer. Plus, I have a few stories from our adventures 

over the years that I could always hold over his head,” laughs Jim. 

The couple planned the home’s design so they could age in place comfortably and live there as long 

as they possibly could. Everything they need is on the main living floor—from their bedroom with a 

spacious walk-in closet and luxurious bath, to the gourmet kitchen, laundry room, craft room, his-andher 

offices, and a bar for entertaining. 

“In our old house, we had a bar downstairs we rarely used. So we made sure to put one on the main 

floor since we love to entertain,” says Kathy. 

Floor-to-ceiling folding glass doors, off the great room, lead out to the expansive screened-in living 

area, where a stone fireplace showcases a mantel made from an old beam original to the property. 

There is also an outdoor grilling area right off the kitchen. 

The dogs even have a space of their own on the main floor. Ollie and Maple’s room includes a dog 

shower and a door that leads to a fenced-in outdoor turfed area. 

As for the rest of the house, their younger daughters Emerson, 15 and Reese, 13 occupy the second 

level of the home which is dedicated to them. Their oldest daughter Abra, 25 and son Caden, 19 live in 

the lower level which also houses an exercise room, a sauna/steam shower and access to the outdoor 

oasis that includes a swimming pool, hot tub and a view like no other. ➻ 

1 

22 housetrends.com

2 

3 4 

1 Kathy prefers a mix of old and new when it 

comes to furnishings. 2 Kathy designed the white 

oak hutch that stands adjacent to the family’s main 

dining area. 3 Jim serves up a beverage from a bar 

positioned between the kitchen and great room. 

4 The great room and bar area open up to the 

expansive screened-in porch. 


Family first 

The couple knew they would eventually 

be taking care of their parents 

in some capacity. In fact, Kathy’s 

85-year-old mom Georgia now lives in 

the original cottage. As for the main 

house they wanted space, a home that 

was large and comfortable enough 

for family to visit and stay. Also, so 

their children—or other family members—could 

live with them. 

“We watched our own siblings 

come back home for different reasons 

and I always want my kids to have 

a place here no matter what,” Kathy 

says. ➻ 

1 

A colonnade connects the main house 

with the original cottage where Georgia lives. 

1 A dramatic stone stairway leads to 

a gazebo and colonnade. 2 A richly-painted 

reading room is located off the front entry. 

3 This lush private patio stands near the 

family entrance. 4 A cozy seating area with 

a view awaits the couple in the primary 

bathroom. 5 Their bedroom includes a 

breathtaking view and access to an outdoor 

area. 

24 housetrends.com

2 

3 

4 

5 


Planning for the future 

There are plans to eventually build a barn and have a pasture for retired horses on the acreage Mulberry 

Ridge sits on. But, the one thing that Kathy and Jim are most “geeked” about is grandkids. 

“We are so ready to be grandparents,” says Kathy. “I imagine giant kickball games in the field, riding 

four-wheelers, swimming and having sleepovers here at ‘Gemma and Gramps’ house.” 

Kathy describes her maternal grandparents as old-fashioned and strict. “We knew we were loved, but 

kids were to be seen and not heard,” she says. “Jim’s grandparents were more hands-on. They owned a 

farm on the west side of the city and weekends were all about family fun and getting together. That’s 

what we want, we’re ready to make memories here for generations to come.” 

The home and pool have a sweeping view 

of the surrounding countryside. 

1 2 

1 The mantel in 

this lower-level 

outdoor space was 

made from a beam 

salvaged from a 

barn that was on 

the property. 2 A 

fenced-in turfed 

yard keeps Ollie 

safe from coyotes 

that roam the area. 

26 housetrends.com

We’re ready 

to make 

memories here. 

-Kathy 

RESOURCES 

Architect Mark Dierkers Architecture Builder Wieland Builders LLC Interior design Homeowner and Robyn Hauser with Wieland 

Builders LLC Kitchen and bathroom design Homeowner, Robyn Hauser, Gary Stacy with Profiles in Design Cabinetry Profiles 

in Design Countertops Quartz, quartzite, granite, from Mont Granite Pantry countertop Daltile Kitchen backsplash tile 

McSwain Kitchen, pantry, bar sinks Kohler from Ferguson Faucets Ferguson Appliances Thermador dishwasher, range, oven 

and refrigerator, Bosch microwaves, GE pantry fridge, Marvel kegerator, Scotsman ice maker, Zephyr wine fridge and beverage fridges, 

all from Custom Distributors, Inc. Window treatments Kelly Wynne Interiors821, LLC Blinds and shades Philip Boone Window 

Coverings Built-ins, beams, wall treatments Works From Wood Stonework Strange Stone, Inc. Lighting Lighting EFX Flooring 

JP Flooring, McSwain Windows Pella Doors 84 Lumber Fireplaces Dayton Fireplace Whole house audio Phantom Sound Custom 

closets All About Organizing Paint Sherwin-Williams Hardware Emtek from Norwood Hardware Staircases Cincinnati Stair Shower 

doors, exercise/dance studio mirrors Affordable Glass and Mirror Sauna Finlandia, designed and installed by Wieland Builders LLC 

Landscape and exterior lighting design Berns Landscaping Pool design e Scape Design Concepts Pool Buckeye Pools Irrigation 

Centerville Landscape Lightning Rods RS Lightning Protection Fence Eads Fence Co. Turf in dog yard SynLawn Gardening Berns 

Personal Gardening Service Landscape stonework, Hartstone patio, fire bowls by pool Ohio Groundscapes LLC Window box 

planting WOW! Windowboxes Copper weathervane Weathervane Factory 

For more photos of this home go to housetrends.com and search Mulberry Ridge. 


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HAPPENING IN THE HOOD 

Ventilation tips to keep your kitchen clean, safe and smoke-free 

BY SARAH J. DILLS 

This Vent-A-Hood M Line Range Hood features a brushed stainless-steel fascia and industrial grade baffle filters. 

Homeowners often select their range hood as a decorative piece, stainless steel with clean lines for 

a contemporary look or ornately carved wood for a more traditional space; but the working element 

beneath the decorative shell is one of the most important selections homeowners will make for not only 

the health and safety of their home, but the cleanliness of their kitchen as well. 

Gas cooktops have made headlines recently for environmental and health concerns, but Kenny 

Rieman Jr., marketing and IT specialist with Custom Distributors, Inc. guides homeowners on how to 

keep their family and home healthy without sacrificing their cooking method of choice. ➻ 


TYPES OF HOODS 

“I don’t think anyone intentionally 

skimps on ventilation, but they 

may only be meeting the minimum 

requirements—which might not be 

enough power to truly fulfill their 

needs,” Rieman says. 

The type of hood best suited for a 

homeowner depends on several factors, 

one of which being the location 

of the range. If it is in the island, the 

ventilation can be installed behind 

the appliance as a downdraft or overhead 

as a more decorative option. If 

the range is along the wall, the ventilation 

can be installed inside a wallmounted 

hood or under cabinetry— 

even built into some microwaves. 

Some wall hoods are sold as 

complete kits. They are in-the-box 

products that come with everything 

homeowners need for standard ventilation, 

including the decorative surround 

and blower, and these simply 

hook up to the home’s pre-existing 

duct. 

Then there are semi-customizable 

options where homeowners can select 

their color and finish to match the 

rest of their appliances. Homeowners 

can also pick the power of their blower, 

ranging from 400 CFM (cubic feet 

per minute) to 1500 CFM depending 

on the combined maximum heat output 

of their cooking appliance. 

With fully-custom hoods, homeowners 

work with their designers and 

contractors to build a wood or stone 

surround that fits the ‘guts’ installed 

in the decorative hood. While people 

1 

2 

1 A Faber Inca HC hood is concealed 

beneath cabinetry by Green City 

Cabinetry in this kitchen from Neal’s 

Design Remodel. Photo by Ross Van 

Pelt. 2 The Wolf 42-inch Cooktop 

Island Hood in black and stainless steel 

includes powerful multi-speed blowers 

and bright LED lighting. 

34 housetrends.com

3 The Wolf 30” Downdraft Ventilation 

“disappears” when not in use for a sleek 

look in open-concept kitchens. 4 This 

Wolf 60-inch Canopy Pro Style Range 

Hood features three halogen lights and a 

stainless-steel finish. 

3 

4 

often have their own designers build 

their custom hoods, Vent-a-Hood 

and other companies offer homeowners 

all-in-one custom ventilation 

products constructed out of a wide 

variety of materials with smooth, 

hammered or patina finishes, among 

other options important to those customizing 

their space. 

Over-the-range microwaves offer 

290-350 CFM, but Rieman says these 

are only recommended for people 

dealing with size or space restrictions. 

“It’s effective enough, but it is 

far from ideal,” he explains. “If you 

have an induction cooktop you could 

maybe justify an over-the-rangemicrowave, 

but if a homeowner uses 

a gas cooktop we would much rather 

get them a separate microwave that 

can be hidden away in a cabinet and 

instead utilize more powerful ventilation 

so they’re not breathing in gas 

fumes and smoke while cooking.” 

Another option is a downdraft vent. 

This is a great solution for an island 

where you can avoid having a large 

hood blocking the view of an open 

kitchen. These will sit low or flush 

to your countertop and at the touch 

of a button will rise and start pulling 

air down instead of up. Downdrafts 

are used mainly for aesthetic reasons, 

where space is limited, or where there 

is no option to vent above the cooking 

surface. “Downdrafts have obvious 

limitations of working against 

the natural flow of air movement but 

can be effective when installed correctly 

alongside compatible cooking 

appliances,” says Rieman. ➻ 


The underside of a Café White Matte 

hood shows its filters and controls. 

TIPS AND TRICKS WHEN 

SELECTING AND OPERATING 

A VENTILATION SYSTEM 

• When possible, select a hood that 

is physically wider than the range— 

extending at least three inches 

beyond the cooking surface on each 

side. Rieman says most homeowners 

don’t know to follow this tip 

because many building codes only 

refer to CFM (cubic feet per minute) 

requirements. If existing cabinetry 

restricts homeowners from selecting 

an oversized hood, he recommends 

increasing the size of the blower. 

• To calculate the CFM required for 

a certain cooking appliance, take 

the BTU (British Thermal Unit) of 

each burner, add them together, 

and divide by 100. A Profile dual-fuel 

range with five burners all running 

at once has 60,000 BTUs, so a 600 

CFM hood would provide adequate 

ventilation. 

• Turn on your ventilation 10 to 15 

minutes before cooking, so new air 

is already moving before you begin. 

When you start your gas burner, if 

you don’t have your vent running 

you may smell gas fumes, indicating 

the air isn’t being properly ventilated. 

• Clean ventilation filters weekly (ideally) 

or monthly (at a bare minimum) 

depending on the type of food and 

how often you cook. Most filters can 

be put in the dishwasher and run 

through a regular cycle. 

FUNCTION OVER FLASH 

The ventilation system over a cooktop may not be the most exciting 

selection homeowners will make, but it can be as important as any 

other decisions they have for their project. 

“Not only does ventilation serve to exhaust gas fumes, it also gets 

rid of smoke and odors coming off food,” Rieman says. “It cleans the 

air. For this reason, ventilation systems are important no matter what 

style of cooktop a homeowner uses in their home.” 

“A lot of people strictly view it as a utility, like replacing a water 

heater,” he adds. “It’s not always a flashy selection. Homeowners want 

effective ventilation, and they want it to be quiet…It’s a lot like selecting 

a dishwasher.” 

BE INFORMED 

“If you’re building a new house, check your community’s codes for 

ventilation and make-up air requirements (intake). If you have an 

older home you may be grandfathered in, but it’s best to verify that is 

the case before making selections,” Rieman explains. “Regarding concerns 

about gas cooktops, at least in the communities we serve, we are 

business as usual. We’re certainly not distancing ourselves from gas, 

instead, we simply promote proper ventilation while helping homeowners 

pick what is best for their needs.” 

Café Range Hoods can be finished to complement appliances or 

cabinetry. (Shown in matte white “pro style”) 

36 housetrends.com

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projectSP 

TLIGHT 

inviting the outside in 

Windows and doors frame the view and open up the flow 

BY LEE RHODES | PHOTOS BY CONNIE KIMSEY 

A series of luxury urban homes, recently on display at HOMEARAMA ® , allowed potential home 

buyers and guests to glean inspiration from the latest innovations in home design and modern 

architecture. Also on display? The extraordinary sights of the Cincinnati skyline, thanks to the 

builders’ inclination to boost views of downtown and the resourceful use of windows throughout. 

Ashford Builders, for instance, used Pella windows in their HOMEARAMA ® designs, including 

within the five-story Newport model, which showcased the Pella Lifestyle Series products in the 

master suite, main living areas, modern office, and more. 

Nick Blessing, trade salesman with Pella, explains how windows optimize both space and 

views, and comments on the latest trends. ➻ 


projectSPOTLIGHT 

Bigger is better 

The large window trend is here to 

stay, according to Blessing, and it’s 

expanded beyond just the great room 

to every area of the house, including 

kitchens. In addition to big windows, 

including those that run floor-to-ceiling, 

big doors are in fashion as well. 

“Big multi-panel, multi-slide doors, 

especially onto the back patio or rooftop 

terrace, create combined indooroutdoor 

spaces,” explains Blessing. 

These versatile doors increase the 

flow of both spaces without closing 

either off. 

The functionality of doors and windows 

is also game-changing. Multislide, 

stacking doors provide panoramic 

views and can easily be tucked 

away out of sight—and can serve as 

both window and door. 

“On one of the Ashford homes, 

we used Pella’s bi-folding window to 

optimize the outdoor space,” says 

Blessing. “All the panels fold intuitively 

to one side of the opening. 

People can literally be inside and outside 

enjoying the same space.” 

Fortunately, Pella’s aluminum 

wood-clad windows require no maintenance 

(neither outside nor in). The 

pre-finished wood interior materials 

offer glimpses of the grain of 

the wood for a unique, aesthetically 

pleasing look. As an added bonus, 

the energy efficiency of the windows 

serves to reduce utility bills and is an 

important factor in today’s market. 

1 

2 

OPENER: Pella Lifestyle Series sliders 

open to the view in The Newport by 

Ashford Homes. 

THIS SPREAD 1 Fixed windows introduce 

plenty of natural light in this bedroom. 

2 Windows over the bar area 

open to serve thirsty guests. 3 Slider 

doors open to the rooftop deck in 

Ashford’s Monterey. 

40 housetrends.com

3 

Picture this 

All three Ashford home models showcased 

black-framed windows, for 

interior contrast and exterior curb 

appeal. “Black interior windows make 

the view of the city of Cincinnati look 

like a picture,” comments Blessing. 

One might think that white frames 

would lighten the room, but it’s the 

glass windows themselves that summon 

fresh, natural light. Not only 

that, unlike black, white interior 

frames don’t always allow your eyes 

to move past them to the “artwork” 

of the outdoors. 

“It’s all about bringing the outside 

in and brightening up interiors,” concludes 

Blessing. 


42 housetrends.com

NOD TO 

nature 

Kitchen makeover introduces calming 

colors and easier outdoor access 

BY LEE RHODES 

PHOTOS BY MATTHEW GARSKY 

It may sound counterintuitive for a color to blend well with everything and simultaneously 

make a statement—but it’s not. When a family in Upper Arlington decided 

to renovate their kitchen, they knew they wanted some color but they found the 

decision-making process, with its myriad of color options, a bit daunting. 

“We don’t spend much time watching HGTV,” says the homeowner with a laugh, 

“which is part of why we went with The Cleary Company. They have a strong design 

process and did a great job with the color palette.” 

Nowhere is that palette more pronounced than in the kitchen cabinetry, which is 

painted the fresh and calming Pewter Green by Sherwin-Williams. Kitchen designer 

Katie Florjancic and interior designer Shannon Tannehill from The Cleary Company 

teamed up to make selections that suited the homeowners’ style. 

“The color is a nod to nature, a green with bits of blue, and it really brightens up 

the space but also blends well with the rest of the house,” Florjancic explains. ➻ 

By gaining floor space, the family was able to add a slider that opens up the kitchen to the outside. 



An expansive bar area was placed adjacent 

to the slider doors for easy access from 

both the kitchen and the patio.

Specialized pull-out cabinetry keeps clutter under control. 

Adjusting to change 

As with many renovations, it wasn’t 

all smooth sailing. The family lived in 

the home during construction, using 

the front room as a makeshift kitchen 

(complete with microwave and hot 

plate). The couple’s 10-year-old son 

was a hard sell, often telling his parents 

during construction that he preferred 

the old kitchen. 

But after eight years in the home 

and an increasing desire to open up 

the space to better accommodate 

gatherings of family and friends, it 

was time. The project was significant, 

since an oven wall separated the 

kitchen and dining area. The wall was 

knocked out, the dining area shifted 

to the opposite side, and a slider was 

added for easy access to the backyard. 

The slider, conveniently located 

near the beverage center, creates an 

elegant entryway and serves to bring 

the outdoors in. 

“The sliding door is a big highlight 

for us,” explains the homeowner. “It 

allows for lots of natural light and 

pulls in the rest of our backyard. It’s 

my favorite feature.” 

Hidden treasures 

Just as television shows have “Easter 

eggs”—hidden messages placed 

throughout that are only visible to 

eagle-eyed fans—this kitchen has 

Easter eggs that aren’t immediately 

visible but that nonetheless create an 

optimally efficient space. 

Case in point: Pull-down custom 

cabinets that conceal the usual 

kitchen detritus. An appliance garage 

that houses appliances the family 

wants easy access to but doesn’t want 

cluttering the countertops. A twotiered 

sliding silverware drawer that 

accommodates items that never had 

a home before now (read: chopsticks 

and reusable straws). ➻ 


The floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets on the left were recessed into the wall using a bit of the footprint from a front living room. 

There is also a pull-out for garbage and cleaning supplies. 

Florjancic says, “We didn’t want to bog down the 

area under the sink with a soap dispenser, paper towel 

holder, et cetera. The pull-out, which takes up minimal 

space in the island, holds these items.” 

Warm wood accents 

Speaking of the island, its natural white oak stain is pulled 

into other parts of the kitchen, including the custom chevron 

hood, thus bridging different parts of the space. And 

much like the silverware drawer, the island is two-tiered, a 

deliberate design choice that was heavily debated (but now 

revered). Since it’s an extensive, L-shaped island, the varying 

tiers not only break up the island but allow for plenty 

of seating and cabinet space. 

“I like the way the two tiers break things up,” says the 

homeowner. “The kids will sit there and do homework. 

There’s a sink in the island but it’s positioned to separate 

the wet-working food space from the bar space, so papers 

don’t get wet.” 

Other unique features include the aforementioned 

hood, whose natural-looking stain adds depth and texture; 

the hood’s stain also nicely offsets the stainless-steel 

appliances. And along the stove wall, the brick-patterned 

tile is laid in a traditional running bond, whereas in the 

bar area, the traditional herringbone patterned tile lays in 

a different direction to create visual interest. 

46 housetrends.com

A subtle statement 

Pendant lights highlight the island, 

just as under-cabinet lighting highlights 

other areas. As an added bonus, 

while the exterior of the cabinetry is 

painted, the interior is stained. LED 

strips were inserted along the wood 

shelves such that the beads of light 

are hidden but the cabinets are beautifully 

lit from within and illuminated 

by the backdrop of the cabinets’ stain. 

The lighting makes a subtle yet 

stunning statement, much as the 

green shaker-style cabinetry does. 

Florjancic confirms that most colors 

that are increasing in popularity 

right now are in some way related 

to nature, such as greens and blues 

within the natural world, as well as 

earthy clay reds and oranges. 

“Our clients are getting a little 

more adventurous,” she adds. “They 

are picking out colors that are more 

muted and not saturated but that will 

stand the test of time and not date 

themselves.” 

“Don’t get me wrong,” Florjancic 

concludes. “Homeowners still love 

their white kitchens. But gray is making 

its way out and beige is working 

its way back in, as are fun colors such 

as ox blood or even subtle yellows.” 

As far as the subtle green that 

enlivens this kitchen—and the rest 

of the renovation—perhaps the best 

endorsement is that the family’s 

10-year-old son quickly came around 

and admitted of the finished product: 

“Yeah, I really like it!” 

Editor’s note: This space will be one of 

several gourmet kitchens featured in the 

Kitchen Kapers tour in Upper Arlington on 

Sunday, September 10. For details visit 

kitchenkapers.org. 

A chevron surround beautifully conceals a powerful Faber range hood. 

RESOURCES 

Contractor The Cleary Company Kitchen designer Katie Florjancic, UDCP 

Interior designer Shannon Tannehill UDCP Custom cabinetry Perimeter in 

maple painted Sherwin-Williams Pewter Green, island in white oak Countertops 

Ceasarstone, Moorland Fog Backsplash Equipe Village Range hood White 

oak chevron Lighting Kichler Brinley 5” Pendant, Northern Lighting Hardware 

Ascendra, Top Knobs Sink Elkay Quartz Luxe Faucet Brizo Rook Smart Touch 

Appliances Bosch refrigerator and dishwasher, Faber range hood, Avallon 

beverage fridge, Sharp microwave drawer, all from Ferguson Tile Hamilton 

Parker Quartz Konkus Plumbing Carr Supply Sliding door APCO 


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All the windows have a UV coating to protect furniture and rugs from fading. 

50 housetrends.com

White Open 

Spaces 

New home built with 

breathing room in mind 

BY KAREN BRADNER 

PHOTOS BY KELLY ANN PHOTOGRAPHY 

It’s easy to drive right by the entrance to Meredith and 

Ajay Goel’s Centerville home. In fact, this writer did. 

Except for a narrow opening between long stretches 

of trees, overgrown bushes and honeysuckle, the only 

sign indicating a home might be there is a bright, newlypoured 

section of concrete. 

But once you make the U-turn into this drive and find 

your way back to the entrance, everything opens up. 

The 500-foot-long drive first introduces you to the 

side of the home then casually curves around to connect 

with a circular drive. The path eventually leads to a grand 

porte-cochère welcoming you to the front entry of this 

California Modern Farmhouse style home. Its crisp white 

exterior, paired with a matte black metal roof makes a 

bold statement as it stands in the middle of a grass covered 

section of what feels like a secluded 11-acre lot. ➻ 


Watching for signs 

“A friend of mine, who knew Meredith and I were looking for property, was driving by and saw a teeny for 

sale sign on the street,” Ajay says. “He sent me the information and I looked it up on Google Earth. I couldn’t 

believe this huge section of land was available in a prime area of Centerville.” 

Months earlier, the couple relocated from Meredith’s hometown of Milwaukee, back to where Ajay grew up 

so they could be near his family, which includes parents and a brother who live in the area. 

Once the parcel was purchased, it was time to select who would handle the construction. “We interviewed 

a bunch of builders,” Ajay says. Their decision was influenced by the husband/wife team approach of Dan 

and Erika DeVol, owners of DeVol Custom Builders. “When we built our home in Milwaukee, our builders 

were husband and wife and it was a good experience. So that aspect resonated.” 

But what really brought the decision home was a tour of another DeVol built home. “Even though it wasn’t 

the particular style we wanted, we could instantly see the detail and quality craftsmanship,” Meredith says. 

“It’s the level of care we put into the littlest of details that separates us from a lot of other builders,” says 

Dan DeVol. “And this house was fun for us. It allowed us to do a lot of unique things that we would not typically 

see in this area.” ➻ 

1 

1 A wide paver sidewalk leads from additional guest parking to the main entrance. 2 The windows in the home have 

metal frames on both the inside and outside. 3 The waterfall island, backsplash and range hood are all covered in 

quartz for a streamlined look. 

52 housetrends.com

2 

3 


Been there, done that 

With that decision made, Meredith got busy with the planning. 

“Since I had already been through the process of building a 

house,” she says, “I knew what I needed to do.” 

Before meeting with architect Shawn Duncan, Meredith— 

who has a passion for design, but is trained as a nurse—says 

she studied “about a million” floor plans and compiled a binder 

of photos showing features she wanted. 

“Meredith showed up very prepared,” DeVol says. “She was 

a gem of a client.” 

Large and plentiful windows were a major factor in creating 

the big, open feel the couple wanted. And it’s this abundance 

of windows that hits you immediately as you pass through the 

ten-foot-tall copper covered pivoting doors into the home’s 

front entry. Glass panels on the west-facing wall of the great 

room slide out of the way to create a 26-foot-wide expansive 

open-air view of the courtyard and its center pool. 

“I wanted a courtyard space where the kids could play and I 

could see them as I was working inside the house,” Meredith 

says. 

The orientation of this wall of windows—and in fact the 

entire home—was deliberate for another reason. “I’ve always 

loved watching thunderstorms,” Meredith says. “When I was 

young my grandma and I would sleep on my parents’ screenedin 

porch and watch and listen to storms passing through.” So, 

the wide-open western vantage point is a hit, as is the metal 

roof which adds dramatic sound effects as the rain pours down. 

The great room’s vaulted and beamed ceilings—reaching 21 

feet at their highest point—are accentuated by a series of 10 

square windows that only add to the open, airy feel. Bridging 

the space between the living area and kitchen is an informal 

dining area with a showstopping 14-foot-long herringbone patterned 

dining table, custom built for the couple by Cincinnatibased 

Terry Herrmann Design. That pattern also appears 

nearby on cabinetry panels designed for the kitchen’s Sub-Zero 

refrigerator and freezer doors. The kitchen waterfall island and 

backsplash are covered in white Cambria quartz with soft grey 

veining running through it. 

It’s this soft white and grey color scheme running throughout 

this home—along with windows and the sheer size of the 

rooms—that greatly contributes to the home’s ability to make 

you want to exhale upon entering. There is a definite calm and 

cool vibe going on here. ➻ 

This staircase leading to the sunroom, is 

one of two in the home—both with built-in 

safety gates for the young children. 

54 housetrends.com


Family matters 

The couple are parents to four children 

ranging in age from 20 months 

to 16 years. Rooms are peppered 

throughout the home that keep them 

engaged and active when weather 

keeps them indoors. The lower level 

of the home includes a home theater 

with comfy seating for a crowd. 

Nearby is a playroom with shelving 

filled with colorful picture books, and 

a ladder, loft and slide for the younger 

children. 

Upstairs in the exercise room, long 

panels of silk hang from the 14-foot 

peak in this room’s ceiling. Bella, the 

teenager in the home, was captivated 

after watching aerial acrobats perform 

at Cirque de Soleil. While living 

in Milwaukee she took classes 

and learned skills. Today she works 

solo but takes advantage of the quiet 

and the view as she twists and turns 

toward the ceiling. Bella is also a 

passionate tennis player, playing on 

her high school’s team and she often 

plays doubles with Ajay. 

1 

2 

First day in the new pool is a splash 

for 20-month-old Saami. 

Photo by Eman Barri 

1 Three-year-old Ravi sits near his 

5-year-old sister Amira. 2 Cabinetry 

flanks each side of the mudroom. 

One side is for the 16 and over family 

members, the other is for the younger 

children. 3 Bella demonstrates her aerial 

acrobatic skills in the exercise room. 

56 housetrends.com

Modern conveniences 

Ajay works from his office in the southern wing of the home near the primary 

bedroom. With clients in different time zones, his work often keeps 

him busy until four or five in the morning. After work his preferred space 

for winding down is on the great room’s couch. The mounting mechanism 

for the 100-inch-wide television is motorized and lowers in front of the 

linear fireplace to help avoid neck strain. 

In fact, many of this home’s electronics were designed and built by Ajay. 

Educated as a computer scientist and with no real experience in this area, 

the homeowner admits he learned along the way. “There were times when 

I felt like I bit off a bit more than I could chew,” he says, but the lower-level 

theater, the whole home automation, a sound system which includes 30 

ceiling speakers, and even the motorized shades on the windows, indicate 

otherwise. ➻ 

3 


1 

It pays to plan 

The whole process took about 2-1/2 

years from design to completion. 

During this phase, the family lived 

in another home about a mile away. 

The move-in date was in December 

of 2022 and while kids would have 

to wait until warmer days to splash 

around in the courtyard’s pool, there 

was plenty to do indoors. 

“We planned this home so that our 

kids could run around inside when it is 

too cold to be outside,” Meredith says. 

That careful planning resonates 

throughout this home. Every detail 

was chosen with a purpose in mind. 

Tile floors are heated. Windows are UV 

coated. Stair railings were built to keep 

young children safe. A laundry room 

includes a bath area and doggy door 

for the family’s Labradoodle Momo. 

And from atop the metal roof, lightning 

rods protect the home and its 

contents when storms sweep across 

the property, while safely behind 

her great room’s wall of windows, 

Meredith watches the show. 

2 

1 The primary bedroom features a beamed and vaulted ceiling and plenty of 

natural light. 2 A pergola off the pool leads to a screened-in covered patio 

complete with fireplace. 

RESOURCES 

Architect Shawn Duncan Associates, LLC Builder Daniel DeVol Custom Builder, 

Inc. Interior designer Jaclyn Westbeld, Daniel DeVol Custom Builder, Inc. 

Landscape designer Rick Lamble, Atelier Vals Landscape installation Rob 

Fowler, Lawn Innovations Outdoor lighting Josh Johnston, Archalite Pool Tim 

Buechel, Mid-American Pools Lighting Ferguson, Restoration Hardware Flooring 

Bob Madden Carpet & Tile Windows and doors Fleetwood Window shades 

PowerShades Paint Benjamin Moore Steam Front door Castlewood Fireplace 

Dayton Fireplace Cabinetry Farrington Woods Kitchen sinks Kohler Kitchen 

faucets Moen Appliances Miele dishwasher, Wolf cooktop, Sub-Zero refrigerator, 

Viking ovens, all from Appliance Gallery Bathroom countertop Cambria 

Bathroom sink, tub, faucets Kohler Steam shower Kohler with DTV from 

Ferguson Custom 14-foot herringbone dining table Terry Herrmann Design 

58 housetrends.com

A Place 

For Everything 

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Wall Beds • Wall Units • Hobby Rooms • Garage Flooring • and More… 

For a free in-home design consultation ClosetsbyDesign.com or 513.993.3234 

HTCI0723.002

Isle Rug in Teal & Grey by Loloi 

60 housetrends.com

outdoor rugs 

Transform your outdoor room from drab to fab 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

1 Botanical Collection in Navy/Multi by Loloi 2 Valencia Kilim Spice Handwoven Rug by Dash & Albert 

3 Zhara Stripe Denim Handwoven Rug by Dash & Albert 4 Meridian Area Rug by Oriental Weaver 

5 Mainsail Yellow Handwoven Rug by Dash & Albert 6 Cabo Rug by Surya 7 Veranda Terracotta Blue Rug by Loloi 

8 Capel ® Glenbrook Natural Performance Rug with Sunbrella 9 Cayman Area Rug by Oriental Weavers 

Visit these local retailers for your outdoor rug needs: Best Furniture Gallery, Hoffman and Albers Interiors, 

ID Cincinnati Furniture and Interior Design, Studio J, The Rug Gallery & Watson’s 


ASK THE EXPERT 

rea estate 

NEW CONSTRUCTION VS. EXISTING HOME: 

WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU? 

As available home inventory remains tight, more and more buyers are considering building in order to get exactly what they want in a home. But 

while a brand-new home certainly has its advantages, there are several aspects that can’t be duplicated from existing homes. To help you decide 

whether you should buy a new construction property or a previously owned home, we’ve put them head-to-head in a variety of categories: 

1. COST – When house hunting, one of your main 

concerns will likely be your budget. Almost always, 

new construction properties are more expensive 

than previously owned homes, especially if you’re 

going with a custom build. While resales have 

gotten more expensive since inventory remains 

low, builder prices are elevated as well since the 

cost of building materials is at an all-time high. 

In 2022, average prices for new homes were 32% 

higher than resales. Winner? Existing Home 

2. MAINTENANCE/SAFETY – A major reason for 

a new construction home’s high price is that it’s 

brand new and comes with warranties. In terms 

of maintenance, repair needs, and overall safety, 

that makes it the winner over a previously owned 

home. When you buy a new construction house, it’s 

safe to assume that it won’t need major repairs for 

quite some time—and if it does, your warranty will 

usually offset the cost. You can also rest assured that 

the building materials and methods are safe and 

up to code, which is not necessarily the case when 

you purchase an older, previously owned property. 

Winner? New Construction 

3. TIMELINE – Once you’ve filled out a mortgage 

application, it takes on average a month to 45 

days to close on an existing home. This process 

can move even faster if you’re already preapproved 

with the lender, if you have all your documentation 

in order, or if you are purchasing with cash. For 

new construction, a timeline of 6-12 months is not 

unrealistic, especially if you are doing a custom 

build. Winner? Existing Home 

4. AESTHETICS – New construction homes tend to 

be designed with modern aesthetics, including the 

newest in interior design trends—but they can feel 

cookie-cutter to some buyers who feel like they’re 

seeing the same thing over and over again. Older 

homes often feature more unique architecture 

and one-of-a-kind finishes. However, some existing 

homes may have outdated looks that you’ll want to 

update when you move in. Winner? Draw 

5. ENERGY EFFICIENCY – New construction 

homes are made with the latest energy-efficient 

materials, including insulation, windows, heating 

and cooling systems, and appliances. While many 

homeowners have made energy-efficient upgrades 

to existing homes, they’re rarely as comprehensive 

as new construction. Winner? New Construction 

6. LANDSCAPING – If mature landscaping is 

high on your must-have list, an existing home is 

more likely to fit the bill than a new construction 

property. Unless you have a wooded lot, new 

construction homes typically come with young 

trees and landscaping—while the landscaping 

around existing homes has had more time to grow 

and mature. Winner? Existing Home 

7. CUSTOMIZABILITY – Unless they’re already 

complete and being sold as “market” or “spec” 

homes, new homes can usually be customized. 

Doing the same with an existing home might 

require costly and time-consuming renovations. 

Winner? New Construction 

In summary, buying an existing home and buying 

a new construction property each have their pros 

and cons. So how do you decide? Prioritize which 

aspects are most important to you. Then, get in 

touch. Our expert team can’t wait to help you find 

your new (or new to you!) dream home. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Ellie Kowalchik, a real estate agent with Keller Williams Pinnacle Group, leads Cincinnati’s top-ranked 

Move2Team. A multi-million dollar producer and company sales leader, she holds the advanced 

designations of Seller Representative Specialist, Certified Residential Specialist, as well as e-Pro with a focus on technology. 

She has also been named one of America’s Best Real Estate Agents by RealTrends for the past 6 years. 

Have real estate questions you’d like to see answered in a future edition of Ask the Expert? 

Give Ellie a call at (513) 616-2323 or email her at Ellie@Move2Team.com. 

HTCI0723.019

TALL, 

SLIM 

and 

styling 

Urban homes show 

vertical possibilities 

BY KAREN BRADNER 

While there are enough 

steps to qualify for a cardiac 

workout, four- and sometimes 

five-story homes are 

increasingly finding their way 

into today’s urban landscape. 

If that idea alone makes 

you want to catch your 

breath, elevators are almost 

always included in the plans. 

Recently, we toured eight 

such homes in a local home 

show and we found our 

favorite spaces and noticeable 

trends on each of the 

floors. ➻ 

The Monroe | Photo by Connie Kimsey 


The Newport | Photo by Greg Grupenhof 

NOTICEABLY NEUTRAL 

We’re not sure if it was influenced by the “urban” angle, but a 

major color scheme seen throughout the homes was soft whites on 

the walls, cabinetry and furniture, matte blacks on the hardware, 

windows and accent walls. A burst of caramel in a leather sofa or a 

throw, added the occasional accent. 

The Acadia | Photo by Connie Kimsey 

The Gerbus | Photo by Greg Grupenhof 

64 housetrends.com

The Newport | Photo by Connie Kimsey 

The Monterey | Photo by Greg Grupenhof 

HEAVY-HITTING LIGHTING 

This is a trend we see hanging around indefinitely. Dramatic lighting sets the stage almost more effectively than anything 

else in the room. Design choices often indicate the larger the better. And in the homes on tour during the show, lighting 

styles were complementary but not matchy-matchy. ➻ 

The Acadia | Photo by Greg Grupenhof 

Photo by Connie Kimsey 


The Christopher 

The Monroe 

The Clifton 


66 housetrends.com

GOT IT? 

FLAUNT IT. 

If you are lucky enough to have a 

striking view, then floor-to-ceiling 

windows are most likely called for. 

Black frames are still quite popular—and 

not just for farmhouse style 

homes—but white frames also let 

the view speak for itself. Window 

treatments were minimal, or in most 

cases, avoided all together. ➻ 

All photos this spread by Greg Grupenhof 

The Newport 

The Clifton 


The Monterey | Photo by Connie Kimsey 

CARVED OUT NICHES 

Even if the footprint and lot size of the home are small, it is important to create an outdoor space for dining, cooking, 

relaxing and entertaining. Rooftop decks with city views definitely stole the show this year, but backyard enclaves surrounded 

by solid stone walls and privacy fences were alluring for quieter moments. 

The Clifton | Photo by Connie Kimsey 

68 housetrends.com

RESOURCES 

The Newport 

Ashford Homes 

Interior design: Designs on Madison 

The Monterey 

Ashford Homes 


The Monroe 

Homes by Gerbus, Inc. 


The Christopher 

Thomas J. Ackermann Company, Inc. 

Interior design: Design to Market 

The Clifton 

Meierjohan Building Group 

Interior design: Design to Market 

The Acadia 

Ashford Homes 


The Christopher | Photo by Greg Grupenhof 

The Monterey | Photo by Connie Kimsey 

HEARING 

ABOUT 

HERRINGBONE 

Less noticeable at first, but once 

your eyes landed on the pattern, 

herringbone was prevalent 

throughout the homes. Seen in 

wooden wine racks, tiled backsplashes, 

bathroom floors and 

on the face of consoles, it’s a 

classic pattern that’s found its 

way into several facets of interior 

design. 

The Christopher | Photo by Greg Grupenhof 


E30623.032 

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Custom Distributors, Inc..................................... 30 

Hanson Audio and Video.................................... 28 

Hoffman & Albers Interiors................................. 15 

ID Cincinnati Furniture & Interior Design............ 13 

Move2Team.com............................................... 62 

Neal’s Design Remodel........................................ 2 

Perfect Paver Co................................................ 48 

Ryan’s All-Glass..................................................... 7 

Slats Blind & Shutter Experts............................... 76 

Stone Mart.......................................................... 73 

Studio J............................................................... 32 

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Watson’s............................................................. 11 

Zicka Homes...................................................... 74 

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TOP AREAS TO APPLY 

Porches • Garage Floors • Man Caves • Patios • Pool Decks 

Countertops • Bar Tops • Vanities 

5 REASONS WHY 

Aesthetically Appealing • Cost-Effective • Durability • Easy Maintenance • Slip Resistance 

RICK STUMPF - OWNER | Rick@BondedResurfacing.com 

Cincinnati 513-951-5390 | Columbus 614-714-4828 

Dayton 937-714-7573 | Springfield 937-966-0244 

BondedResurfacing.com 

HTRG0723.003 

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quartz 

JUPITER SUPREME 

UNMATCHED EXPERIENCE, 

EXQUISITE MATERIALS. 

REGARDLESS OF WHO IS FABRICATING, DESIGNING, 

OR CONTRACTING YOUR SPACE... 

CHOOSE YOUR LUXURY SLABS AT STONE MART. 

STONEMARTMARBLEGRANITE.COM 

COLUMBUS, OH - WEST 

2249 WESTBROOKE DR - 43228 

(614) 527-0257 

COLUMBUS, OH - EAST 

240 OUTERBELT ST - 43213 

(614) 604-9620 

CINCINNATI, OH 

4434 MUHLHAUSER RD - 45011 

(513) 942-7625 

ALSO LOCATED IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN AND ROCHESTER, NY. 

HTRG0723.007

RANCH STYLE HOMES IN ANDERSON 

HTCI0723.010 

LIFESTYLE LIVING AT ITS BEST 

• 26 beautiful home sites 

• Maintenance-free living 

• Choice of three floor plans 

• Multiple exterior elevations 

• Three-bedroom ranch options 

• Inviting covered porches 

• Built to custom specifications 

• On-staff interior designers 

• Walk to Coldstream Country Club 

Sites are going quickly. 

Call Zicka Homes today to reserve your lot! 

RALPH FRUECHTEMEYER / VP SALES 

Ralph@ZickaHomes.com 

Cell: 513-477-2310

showcase 

DEVELOPMENT 

VILLA I ELEVATION 

SOLD 

For more elevations & floor plans please visit us at: 

ZickaHomes.com 

513.247.3500 

7861 East Kemper Road 

Cincinnati, Ohio 45249 

HTCI0723.010

Relax with motorized 

Allure ® Transitional 

Shades. Discover 

motorization solutions with 

wall switch, remote, or at 

the shade control options. 

Plus optional smart 

technology. 

Published in conjunction with Buzz Publications, LLC 

4866 Cooper Rd., Suite 202, Cincinnati, OH 45242 

PRSRT STD 

U.S. POSTAGE 

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Buzz Publications, 

LLC 

TRANSITIONAL SHADES 

See why Cincinnati’s 

finest homeowners 

SLATS 

Blind & Shutter Experts 

choose 

The 

Story – Celebrating Over 28 Years in Business. 

After 13 years in the industry as installers, business partners Tom Huber and Rudy 

Forte founded on a “no frills” approach to business. There are no pressure 

sales: just quality products at competitive prices and a commitment to trustworthy 

and reliable service. It is a basic philosophy based on genuine customer service 

that has served the company well. 

Buy from and if you ever have a blind that doesn’t work properly, we’ll fi x it 

for free —for as long as you live in your home! That is the warranty! 

513-616-9835 « www.SlatsBlinds.com « Visit our showroom 11928 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati 45249 

HTCI0723.012

Cincinnati July/August 2023

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