A Common Thread

In my home, our covered patio is a favorite space for relaxing with a cup of coffee and a stack of magazines on breezy summer days. My husband took this quick photo when my daughters’ puppies hopped in my lap.

I’ve met the most fascinating people over the past couple of years as editor of SLHL and have gratefully accepted generous invitations to see many of the city’s truly spectacular homes. And through meetings and interviews with dozens of interesting, gracious homeowners, I’ve discovered a common thread that ties all of us together, no matter the shape or size of our homes. Stated simply, it is the desire for a personal space – one that encourages each of us to refresh, to dream, and for some, to create. It’s not an understatement to say that these spaces – from the coziest studios, niches and nooks to the perfect outdoor spots that connect one to nature – provide the place for our spirits to rejuvenate.

In this issue, our featured urban home is a unique residence with personalized spaces for the couple. With a small art studio for Jeanne Marie and a separate workspace for Joe, the home, even with its concise space planning, meets the homeowners’ needs splendidly.

In our suburban home, a handsome library – a serene art- and book-filled space – provides the homeowners with a quiet area for study and relaxation, and it extends to a cozy, private outdoor terrace that looks out toward the beautiful Missouri river valley of St. Albans.

And with summer in swing, our My Space and Outdoor Living features highlight spaces for gathering, relaxing and “getting away from it all.” These idyllic spaces are perfect for taking a few minutes to unwind – or to gather and share the grand outdoors – in customized spaces created with family members in mind.

At SLHL, we are happy to provide inspiration and point you toward design professionals you’ll need to “stitch together” the template for your own space. Whether you expand, remodel or create a new haven, I hope that it is a wonderful process and the outcome is all that you imagined it would be.

I’m headed to my patio with a cup of coffee and my favorite magazine.

Happy planning,
Vicki Pickle

Add comment May 28th, 2009