1 bhgrecollection.com | DISTINCTIVE LIFE® THE VOLUME 14 bhgrecollection.com 9 TIPS FOR UPDATING A HISTORIC HOME Returning an old house to its prior splendor can be an exhilarating but lofty goal. Whether your getaway property is a city condo, beach bungalow, or mountain cabin, it should be a space of refuge and escape. VACATION HOME IDEAS FOR LUXURY LIVING
3 bhgrecollection.com | 2 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 6 AMAZING MID-CENTURY MODERN HOTELS IN THE U.S. Do you love mid-century modernism and want to stay in a hotel that reflects the style? 8 MOST ROMANTIC CITIES IN THE U.S. A romantic trip with your significant other is a great way to nurture or rekindle your relationship. 9 TIPS FOR UPDATING A HISTORIC HOME Returning an old house to its prior splendor can be an exhilarating but lofty goal. DESIGNING A HOME FOR HEALTHY LIVING Did you know that designing your home with health in mind is a big part of the well-being equation? VACATION HOME IDEAS FOR LUXURY LIVING Whether your getaway property is a city condo, beach bungalow, mountain cabin, or some other sanctuary, it should be a space of refuge and escape. 9 Tips for Updating a Historic Home p.28 8 Most Romantic Cities in the U.S. p.46 Life & Leisure Interior Design Travel HOW TO INCORPORATE SENSORY ENGAGEMENT ELEMENTS INTO HOME DESIGN Engaging the senses should be a primary goal of any good home design plan. p.34 LUXURY PROPERTIES Featured Listings p.50 p.40 p.46 p.28 p.16 p.22 LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT, GINGER WILCOX 9 INGREDIENTS TO AMPLIFY YOUR NEXT CUP OF COFFEE Occasionally, it’s fun to amplify your brew and turn it into a treat for the tastebuds. 9 Ingredients to Amplify Your Next Cup of Coffee p.6 CONTENTS Gourmet Cuisine 6 p.4 p.6 p.10 BEST NEW WHISKEYS AND BOURBONS FOR 2024 Whether you like a good single malt, rye, or bourbon, there’s likely something already out this year that will pique your interest. Vacation Home Ideas for Luxury Living p.22 22 28 46
5 bhgrecollection.com | 4 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 letter from the President, GINGER WILCOX Distinctive Collection by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate® offers the service and market experience you would expect from a brand whose legacy was built upon a passion for the home. Let us help you find or sell yours. Sign up for the Distinctive Collection Newsletter and receive a FREE Luxury Staging Guide bhgrecollection.com/blog/subscribe ©2024 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC (“BHGRE”). All Rights Reserved. Better Homes and Gardens®, Distinctive Collection by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate®, and the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate logo are registered service marks owned by Meredith Operations Corporation and licensed to BHGRE. BHGRE fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. s summer's warmth unfolds, it signals to us all to open our homes and hearts to the possibilities of the season. In this issue of The Distinctive Life by Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate, we celebrate the spirit of summer, inviting you to explore both new destinations and the familiar corners of your home with a fresh perspective. Venture with us as we explore America's top romantic cities, ideal for creating lasting memories with a loved one—details on page 46. For those who appreciate design, we also spotlight exceptional mid-century modern hotels across the U.S., each offering a unique blend of history and style that might just inspire your next home project. And what's a morning on vacation without the perfect cup of coffee? We share tips to elevate your daily brew. Finally, we jump into the art of sensory engagement in home design. By enhancing your environment to appeal to all senses—sight, sound, scent, taste, and touch—you can transform your home into a sanctuary of well-being. Turn to page 34 for innovative ways to incorporate these elements into your living space, ensuring your home is not only a place of visual beauty but a haven for holistic health. Wishing you a summer filled with inspiration and discovery. Distinctly yours, A GINGER WILCOX President Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate
7 bhgrecollection.com | 6 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 GOURMET CUISINE 9 ingredients to amplify YOUR NEXT CUP OF COFFEE If you love coffee, you know that not much can make a good cup more enjoyable. Even subpar cups of coffee bring joy to the spirits of most coffee lovers. But occasionally, it’s fun to amplify your brew and turn it into a treat for the tastebuds. Whether your daily cup is an all-black drip version, a French press with a splash of milk, or an espresso or latte to rival those in the best coffee bars, there’s an ingredient you can add to spice it up. Here are nine ingredients to amplify your next cup of coffee.
9 bhgrecollection.com | 8 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 ROSE POWDER Give your next cup of coffee a sweet flavor and aroma with rose powder. Roses improve mood with their fragrant smell and beautiful color, so don’t just leave them in a vase. Add them to your lattes! Rose powder comes from crushed rose petals, and it has (you guessed it) a floral taste and tons of antioxidants. It’s easy to find at online specialty food stores and some brick-and-mortar gourmet food shops. CHICORY Do you want to reduce the caffeine in your coffee but keep its amazing taste? Chicory is the answer. Chicory is a root that has been crushed and used in coffee in the United States since the 18th century. Out of necessity during the Civil War, cafes in New Orleans opted for it to replace part of a cup of coffee with a cheaper ingredient. Today, it’s a popular addition to hot and cold brews, offering a dark and slightly sweet taste. LAVENDER If you love the smell of lavender but aren’t sure the herb goes well in coffee, try it, but first prepare yourself to get hooked. The floral and subtly sweet taste of lavender pairs beautifully with the bitterness of coffee. It imbues just the right amount of softness, not overwhelming the coffee's robustness. You can make a simple lavender syrup at home or purchase it at a specialty food store. MAPLE SYRUP Adding maple syrup is a delicious way to sweeten coffee without using sugar. Maple syrup offers a more earthy and rich flavor profile and is especially delicious in a latte or cafe au lait. For a super decadent delight, drizzle maple syrup over your foamed or frothed milk. Even though many people associate maple syrup with fall, it’s surprisingly splendid in coffee year-round. CINNAMON Cinnamon is an ingredient that goes well with hot or iced coffee, with milk or without. It adds a sweet spice that’s wonderful during cold months, but you can enjoy cinnamon in your coffee any time of year. Use cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon, and pair it with chocolate or vanilla for an even more impressive brew. CACAO POWDER Make a mocha by adding a tablespoon of cacao powder to your coffee, along with your favorite milk. Cacao powder ramps up the decadence of a morning cup and is particularly delightful during the winter when coupled with a few drops of peppermint extract. Cacao is a dreamy and healthy ingredient that improves mood and heart health and reduces inflammation. GOURMET CUISINE HONEY If you’ve never added honey to your coffee, you may be surprised by your cup’s sweetness when you do. Honey is sweeter than sugar, so you don’t need to use as much to get a great flavor. Try a teaspoon of honey to start, and experiment with the many available varietals. There are so many honey flavors that can amplify your next cup of coffee, such as wildflower honey, orange blossom honey, eucalyptus honey, and macadamia nut honey. CHAGA MUSHROOM Mushrooms are nutrient-rich and packed with beneficial properties, but why put them in coffee? Chaga mushrooms contain an abundance of vitamins and minerals, and they have a subtle and earthy flavor that doesn’t overpower. Many packaged coffees have long included chaga in their ingredient lists, and you probably won’t be hard-pressed to find a cafe serving chaga cappuccinos. If you want to make your own chaga coffee, look for chaga powder, which you’ll find at many online specialty food stores. SAFFRON Saffron is a Middle Eastern spice many people have tasted in rice and chicken dishes, but it's not as well-known as a coffee ingredient. The most expensive spice in the world by weight, saffron is flowery and a bit grassy. It can come across as bitter or sweet, depending on your taste buds. But either way, it’s an ingredient that will bring your next cup of coffee to another level.
11 bhgrecollection.com | 10 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 GOURMET CUISINE best new WHISKEYS AND BOURBONS for 2024 The popularity of whiskey and bourbon has skyrocketed over the last decade, so much so that it’s nearly impossible to keep track of all the new bottles on the market. From much-anticipated limited-edition releases by established labels to small-batch blends coming out of newer distilleries, there has been a lot to talk about, and it looks like there will continue to be throughout 2024. Whether you like a good single malt, rye, or bourbon, there’s likely something already out this year that will pique your interest. Here’s what we’ve found fascinating so far.
13 bhgrecollection.com | 12 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE DOUBLE OAKED 2023 Woodford Reserve recently announced the release of its highly anticipated Double Double Oaked Bourbon, bottled in 2023 and released in 2024 as part of an annual series celebrating Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. The distillery makes this bourbon by finishing fully mature Woodford Reserve Double Oaked for an additional year in a lightly charred and heavily toasted second new oak barrel. Double Double Oaked is a 90.4-proof that’s also an enjoyable, drinkable bourbon. TRAVELLER WHISKEY Traveller Whiskey is a collaboration between Buffalo Trace master distiller Harlen Wheatley and country singer, songwriter, and musician Chris Stapleton. It’s a blended whiskey released initially in January 2024 with a plan for it to be an ongoing release. The collaborators who joined forces to make “art” and finally arrived at this version, Blend No. 40., are hoping for success with the product after experimenting with more than 50 blends. Traveller Whiskey is 90 proof with a complex nose and palate. It is surprisingly easy to drink. CHATTANOOGA WHISKEY EXPERIMENTAL BATCH 36: HERBAL INFUSED Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Batch 36: Herbal Infused is a bourbon liqueur inspired by the traditionally infused Kräuterlikörs of Germany and crafted from a variety of German malts, including chocolate malt and pale wheat malt. After distillation in column and pot stills, the unique whiskey enjoys an infusion of botanicals, including bilberry, ginseng, star anise, and sarsaparilla. The whiskey then ages in single-use bourbon barrels for a year and is mixed with dark candi syrup before bottling. Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Batch 36: Herbal Infused is 81 proof and comes in a super cool bottle. OLD FORESTER 1924 10-YEAR-OLD Old Forester 1924 10-Year-Old is the fifth release in the distillery’s Whiskey Row Series, following 1870 Original Batch (2014), 1897 Bottled in Bond (2015), 1910 Old Fine Whiskey (2018), and 1920 Prohibition Style (2017). This newest release sports a fresh mash bill for the company: 79% corn, 11% rye, and 10% malted barley, along with a 10-year age statement. And, while just 10 years old, the inspiration for Old Forester 1924 goes back tenfold to the time of prohibition. Old and new tie perfectly together in Old Forester 1924, a limited annual release bourbon that is 100 proof with a flavor pleasingly typical of the brand’s portfolio. GOURMET CUISINE
15 bhgrecollection.com | 14 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 GOURMET CUISINE JACK DANIEL’S 12-YEAR-OLD TENNESSEE WHISKEY BATCH 2 Jack Daniel's Distillery introduced its Jack Daniel’s 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey last year as the older of two aged expressions, the other being aged ten years. Now a planned annual release, the 12-Year-Old version allows the company to regularly produce a more modern whiskey that freshly encapsulates “the essence of the liquid Mr. Jack created over 150 years ago.” This year’s 12-Year-Old edition, Batch 2, marked a change in the expression over last year, however, with a switch from a fruit and sweet-note focus to one that leans heavily on time spent in barrels. Jack Daniel’s 12-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Batch 2 has aged oak and spiced notes and is 107 proof. THE GLENLIVET RUM & BOURBON FUSION CASK SELECTION The Glenlivet just launched an initial product in its single malt whisky lineup - the Fusion Cask Selection. The first of the series is The Glenlivet Rum & Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection, a single malt matured in special casks previously holding rum and bourbon. This non-age statement whisky is not entirely finished in these special casks, but the portion that is, produces an effect on the liquid that is quite good, with a strong honey flavor on the nose and palate. WESTWARD WHISKEY VIENNA Westward Whiskey Vienna is a single-malt whiskey released in February 2024 and the first club release of the year from the Westward Whiskey distillery. Master Blender Miles Monroe says that using Vienna malted barley allowed the company to “create a well-rounded whiskey with notes of biscuit, honeyed malt, and rich caramel” and to “push the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making.” Bottled at 90 proof, Vienna features an aroma of maple candies, banana bread, orchard fruit, and light floral with a palate of rich honey, coconut macaroon, and banana pudding.
17 bhgrecollection.com | 16 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 LIFE & LEISURE designing a home for HEALTHY LIVING When you think about healthy living, what comes to mind? Eating right, exercising, and spending time outdoors? All of these activities contribute to good health, but did you know that designing your home with health in mind is a big part of the well-being equation?
19 bhgrecollection.com | 18 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 When it comes to healthy living, many of us are on board with and doing well in all the typical categories. We stock our refrigerators with healthy food, we keep consistent gym hours, and we venture into nature regularly. However, we don’t always consider or try to focus on health in home design. We know that neglecting our health when it comes to the food we eat, how we move, and the number of hours we spend outside can be costly, but we must also remember that it costs to ignore our well-being in our home environment. Let’s discuss how to bring more features for well-being into your home environment and how to use design to promote health throughout your living space. LIFE & LEISURE NATURAL LIGHT The benefits of natural light on our bodies are tremendous, so healthy home design must consider features that let it inside. Natural light is essential for regulating our circadian rhythm, the body’s 24-hour cycle that’s like an internal clock carrying out essential functions and processes. When our circadian rhythm aligns with the night and day cycle, we experience greater well-being. During the day, our bodies need natural light to regulate appetite, hormonal balance, energy levels, and our sleep cycle. Therefore, homeowners are wise to design spaces that maximize natural light. Large windows and skylights, especially in bedrooms and kitchens where we rise from sleep and spend our waking hours, help let in natural light. Additionally, windows and doors that frame the setting sun provide enough light to tell our bodies it’s time to wind down. FRESH AIR Many of us are good about spending time outdoors to breathe fresh air, but we don’t realize that we might suffer inside our homes due to poor air quality. Bringing fresh air indoors can be as easy as swapping picture windows for operable versions that let in breezes. Plants also help keep inside air fresh, so consider adding home design features like living walls and kitchen herb gardens. When considering your healthy home design plan, remember that many paint and flooring products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), producing vapors harmful to human health. Evaluate your existing paint and flooring to see if there is a healthier option.
21 bhgrecollection.com | 20 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 LIFE & LEISURE CONNECTION TO THE OUTDOORS Spending time outdoors is beneficial to our health, but merely looking at nature can also contribute to mental well-being. As you design your home for healthy living, think about ways to connect to what’s outside. For example, floorplans with thoughtfully placed doors (especially sliding doors) and windows allow homeowners to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world while in their homes. Sunrooms and patios seamlessly flowing from a home’s interior spaces are also great design features for connecting with the outdoors HOME FURNISHINGS The furnishings we keep in our homes can contribute to good or poor health. Think about the chair in your home office. Is it conducive to optimal health even after sitting in it for eight hours a day? If you want to enjoy good health, consider that ergonomic furniture can significantly impact your overall well-being. What about your mattress? Good sleep is essential to great health, so make sure your healthy home design plan includes making the best bed possible. Does the art in your home impact your health? The answer is a resounding “Yes!” Looking at art can make us feel good; colors, textures, and design have the potential to positively stimulate the senses and make us happier. Use these tips to bring healthy living to every room in your house: • Design spaces that are free from distractions. • Engage the senses with beautiful scents, textures, colors, and sounds. • Minimize harsh noises and maximize calming ones. • Design around people instead of things. • Create kitchens that encourage home cooking. • Make spaces to dine outside. • Set aside dedicated exercise areas (not in your bedroom). • Choose window coverings that work with your circadian rhythm. • Plant an outdoor food garden.
23 bhgrecollection.com | 22 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 LIFE & LEISURE VACATION HOME IDEAS for luxury living When you have a vacation home, you want it to be a place of peace and relaxation. Whether your getaway property is a city condo, beach bungalow, mountain cabin, or some other sanctuary, it should be a space of refuge and escape. Design has a great deal to do with creating that atmosphere.
25 bhgrecollection.com | 24 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 Vacation home design focuses largely on aesthetics, but it also considers practicality. You should feel overwhelmed by a sense of calm and rejuvenation from the moment you enter your vacation home until it’s time to depart. Color, texture, and style, as it applies to furnishings, fabrics, and paint, greatly aid that goal. So does flow within the home’s floor plan and the functionality of what you choose to fill the space with. Luxury living in a vacation home is about creating a resort-like environment away from the noise and busyness of the outside world, yet in ways reflective of the surrounding environment. Approaching design ideas for this type of haven should start with questioning what you hope to gain from your time in seclusion. FURNISHING YOUR VACATION HOME When furnishing your vacation home, strive to bring in as much as you need, especially if you stay for extended periods. A vacation home that’s too bare doesn’t feel livable. One that’s too packed, though, doesn’t lend itself to simplicity. As you go from room to room, choosing furnishings and creating a design scheme that promotes easy living, you’ll want to make sure your space remains clutter-free and low maintenance while also being nurturing and uplifting. LIFE & LEISURE LIVING ROOM Instead of designing a formal living room, create a setting you’d want to linger in. Choose a sofa you can sink into over one with purely visual appeal. Consider a plush chair or two in case you want to entertain and opt for a larger coffee table with enough space for coffee mugs, books, and flowers. Add an end table for your glass of wine or a reading lamp. Don’t forget a cozy rug to keep your feet warm and a bookshelf or entertainment center for games, puzzles, and whimsical knick-knacks. DINING ROOM The dining room in your vacation home might be where you enjoy quiet meals alone or lively gatherings with extended family and friends. However you use the space, ensure you design it to meet all your needs. It’s wise to go with as large a table as you can fit and with the maximum seating for the room. Consider a bar cart or China cabinet to make dinners seem exceptionally luxurious when entertaining guests. BEDROOM The mattress may be the most important part of the bedroom in your vacation home, so don’t pick one with the idea that it’s good enough or you won’t use it much. Opt for a mattress that makes you feel like you’re lying on a cloud and choose pillows that promote dreamy sleep. If your vacation home is located where it’s frequently cold, ensure you have plenty of warm linens and blankets. If it’s in a warmer area, choose lightweight sheets and a simple duvet to dress the bed. Additionally, avoid the temptation to put a TV in the bedroom. Instead, leave this space free of anything that could distract you from revitalizing slumber. However you use the space, ensure you design it to meet all your needs.
27 bhgrecollection.com | 26 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 KITCHEN Your kitchen should include all the necessities for preparing breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and even desserts at home. Ideally, you wouldn’t need to leave the house for anything during your escape. So, plan on having the supplies you need to make everything, including a gourmet coffee or sweet treat. The key to not overstocking or overcrowding a vacation home kitchen is to take inventory of what you like to eat and drink and have only the quantities of items you need. Stock cupboards with a pot and pan set, mixing bowls, a baking sheet, a French press or small espresso machine, measuring cups and spoons, a mixer, and a waffle iron or griddle. Ensure you have enough casual dinner and glassware for your family and specialty cooking tools like spatulas, whisks, a grater, and storage containers. BATHROOM Turn your vacation home bathroom into one that resembles what you’d see in a high-end spa. Essentials for creating this restful space include a plush rug and sumptuous towels, pretty jars for cotton pads and swabs, fragrant soaps and toiletries, and vacation basics like sunscreen, bug spray, and an emergency kit. OUTDOOR AREAS Spending time outside can be one of the most rewarding parts of a vacation, so don’t neglect your porch, patio, or balcony when designing your restful retreat. Assemble an area outdoors where you can eat, drink, read, or enjoy the scenery. Keep a couple of umbrellas available and consider adding fun touches like a barbecue or outdoor kitchen and bar. GENERAL DECORATING AND DESIGN TIPS When designing your vacation home, it’s important to think about the quality of the pieces you’ll use to furnish and decorate the space. Keep longevity in mind as well as how each item looks. Opt for solid wood over laminate and metal instead of plastic if you don’t want to replace furniture often, especially in areas with a lot of moisture. Choose fabrics that are weather-friendly and easy to clean. Take the time to search for unique and meaningful works of art and accent items that add to the joy of the space. Pay special attention to your design style, incorporating colors and a theme that will stand the test of time. While there are many ways to decorate a vacation home, sticking with something that mimics the property’s locale is always wise, such as going with a coastal vibe for an oceanfront property, or a lodge look for a home tucked into the forest. LIFE & LEISURE
29 bhgrecollection.com | 28 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 INTERIOR DESIGN 9 tips for UPDATING A HISTORIC HOME Do you dream about updating a historic home? Returning an old house to its prior splendor can be an exhilarating but lofty goal. To keep your sanity while you strive to uphold the integrity of this type of dwelling, there are several tips you should keep in mind. Before you start renovating a historic home, it’s important to know the distinction between one listed on the National Register of Historic Places and one not.
31 bhgrecollection.com | 30 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 The definition of a historic home varies depending on who you talk to. Many preservationists define historic homes as those more than 50 years old. However, some people consider properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places true historic homes. The National Register of Historic Places is a list of more than 96,000 structures representing 1.8 million resources that the National Park Service (NPS) deems worthy of preserving. Through its National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the NPS uses the register to help identify, evaluate, and protect historic places. Historic home owners can apply to list their properties on the National Register of Historic Places. Doing so does not bind the homeowner to specific renovation rules but may open up avenues of federal funding and grants. However, you can thoroughly enjoy working on a historic home, even if it’s not a registered property. As you can probably imagine, updating a historic home may be one of the most challenging and fulfilling projects you’ll work on. As you begin your renovation journey, here are 9 tips to consider. FIND A HOUSE THAT SPEAKS TO YOU Many people ignore this first tip. It can be tempting to purchase a historic property just because it's historic. But if you’re going to live in the home, even if you’re going to just put your heart into renovating it, it’s essential to choose something you’re drawn to. Do you like the home’s location? Are the home’s features pleasing to you? Can you make it the right property, whatever that means to you, without removing or damaging integral features? DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE Jumping into a home purchase without gathering all the facts isn’t a good idea, regardless of the type of property you’re buying. Prior to purchasing, you’ll want to ensure the integrity of the home’s foundation and all built elements and systems. Additionally, it’s wise to examine underneath floors and behind wall coverings to see what might be hidden. ASSEMBLE A RESTORATION TEAM Restoring an old property will likely require a vast and skilled team that shares your vision and goal. When assembling your renovation crew, consider historians, architects, builders, designers, and other professionals who can contribute to the project’s ease and enjoyment. RESEARCH THE HOME’S HISTORY Hiring a historian can be the best way to uncover the backstory behind a property you’re considering. But you can dig into the details yourself by visiting your city or town’s local planning offices and libraries. Ensure you investigate the home’s construction documents to make sound building decisions and turn to newspapers to learn more about the property’s stylistic significance. INTERIOR DESIGN
33 bhgrecollection.com | 32 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN OLD AND NEW You don’t have to commit to restoring a historic home to exactly its former glory. Part of the fun of renovating these properties is infusing a bit of your own flair into them. So, while staying true to a home’s floor plan might be wise, playing a little with paint color can make the home better suited to you. REPLACE IT IF YOU CAN’T SAVE IT As much as you might want to salvage a historic home’s core features like flooring or molding, installing newer versions may make more sense, even if you have to distress them to make them look old. Sometimes, it costs too much time or money to restore something that would look just as perfect in replicated form. CHECK FOR POSSIBLE TAX CREDITS Many municipalities offer incentives for prolonging the life of an older home. Do your research to find out what tax credits might be available and what restrictions may be in place for those who want to take advantage of these benefits. IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY You may not be able to improve the energy efficiency of some structural elements of a home while maintaining the property’s integrity as a historic place. But you can likely swap aging insulation, windows, and lighting for periodappropriate alternatives that reduce utility bills. BE PREPARED FOR SURPRISES The most important tip to remember when renovating a historic home is that surprises will likely occur. You may have done all the right research, hired the best team, and put meticulous care into every aspect of your restoration, but there’s always the possibility the unknown will creep in. Plan for these moments and ensure you’re willing to take them on. INTERIOR DESIGN
35 bhgrecollection.com | 34 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 INTERIOR DESIGN how to incorporate SENSORY ENGAGEMENT ELEMENTS into home design Engaging the senses should be a primary goal of any good home design plan, but striking a balance between under and overstimulation and choosing the right sensory engagement elements for a space is often tricky. Without incorporating enough sensory-stimulating features in your home, you could end up with a bland, sterile, impersonal, and uncomfortable environment. Too many of the wrong kinds of sensory-engaging elements can leave you with a feeling of chaos and confusion. What should you consider when designing a home that engages the senses? First, let’s define sensory engagement and explain why this design approach is important.
37 bhgrecollection.com | 36 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 INTERIOR DESIGN HOW TO START DESIGNING A SENSORY-ENGAGING HOME So, how do you approach design that relies on more than visuals to engage the senses but doesn’t overstimulate with too much going on? First, stand in each room of your house with your eyes closed. How do you want to feel in the space? What do you expect to experience? What do you hear (or not want to hear)? How does the floor feel under your bare feet? Does each room smell the way you’d like it to smell? How does food and drink fit into these areas? ENGAGING ALL THE SENSES IN HOME DESIGN There are many ways to bring beneficial sensory elements into your home, from choosing the right flooring and fabrics to introducing engaging features like fountains and fresh flower displays. Here are some ways you can incorporate sensory engagement in your home design. WHAT IS SENSORY-ENGAGING HOME DESIGN? Sensory-engaging home design feels natural and makes us love living in our homes. It keeps the senses engaged but balanced, regulated and calm instead of dysregulated and frenzied. Good sensory engagement in a home appeals to several or all of our human senses: sight, sound, scent, taste, and touch. It promotes holistic well-being and creates an ambiance that offers more than mere visual engagement. When some homeowners think about design, they focus on the visuals and forget or remove the senses of scent, sound, taste, and touch altogether. They’re then left with a stripped-down and less rich version of what is truly possible in their homes. Sure, visuals are interesting, but engaging all senses provides a fuller and more enjoyable living experience. When you design a home to stimulate all the senses in the right way, you’ll feel calm when you should be calm and energized when you should be energized. For instance, a good sensory-engaging design in a bedroom relaxes precisely where the homeowner should feel relaxed. Done correctly, the design might include soft lighting and plush textiles that are conducive to sleep, Alternatively, lousy bedroom design overstimulates in places that should promote rest. As an example, incorporating too much technology or even home gym equipment into a bedroom will make it hard to unwind. Engaging all senses provides a fuller and more enjoyable living experience.
39 bhgrecollection.com | 38 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 SCENT Engage your sense of smell by incorporating design features that define the scent desired for each room. For example, creating a kitchen that smells like coffee is as easy as keeping fresh coffee beans in an unlidded jar on your counter. Filling your bathroom with fresh roses or eucalyptus is a great sensory design idea, as is spraying bedroom linens and drawers with lavender. Designing with scent in mind is a great way to bring pleasurable smells into your home and mask offending odors. When adding scent sensory elements to your home, consider using: • Candles • Reed diffusers • Potpourri • Scented cleaning products • Fresh flowers • Herbs, spices, and other food items. SOUND We don’t often think about how we’d like our homes to sound. But appealing to this sense is natural for most of us, which is why we’re drawn to the sound of the ocean, music, and birds. Incorporating sound sensory elements into your living space is as easy as paying attention to flooring and wall composition, which can dictate how sound travels and is amplified. Adding home features that offer soothing sounds or drown out obnoxious ones can leave you much peace of mind. Consider the following when designing for the sense of sound: • Carpet absorbs sound. • Noises bounce of tile and concrete. • Living walls can dampen noise. • Water features promote calm. • Smart speakers are great for streaming nature sounds. TASTE How can you satisfy your sense of taste with engaging design? Start by thinking about how you cook and enjoy meals at home and how food and drink make their way into the various rooms in your house. Then, consider how to enhance these experiences with decor or items suited to the senses. Curating a collection of olive oils on your kitchen counter is a great sensory design idea, as is stocking a dining room bar with thoughtfully selected bottles of small-batch whisky. Play around with these areas and features to engage your sense of taste: • Countertop and table decor • Open shelving that showcases spices • Indoor herb gardens • Appliances like espresso machines and chef ovens TOUCH Creating a rewarding tactile encounter is one of the most fun parts of designing a home for sensory engagement. You can envelop yourself in a lush setting through fabrics, flooring, furniture, and other textured elements from the moment you wake up to the moment when you rest your head at night. When designing for touch, resisting the urge to make visuals the most important factor can be challenging. For example, sensory integrated furniture that gives your body a calming sense of where it’s at in relation to its surroundings might not be your first choice upon sight. But try to look past pieces that are merely eye candy and choose options offering deeper sensations of well-being. When designing for touch, think about how you can engage the senses through: • Flooring that cools or warms. • Plants that purify the air and regulate indoor temperature. • Weighted blankets and bedding to promote restful sleep. • Luxuriously textured pillows and fabrics that induce calm. INTERIOR DESIGN
41 bhgrecollection.com | 40 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 TRAVEL 6 amazing mid-century MODERN HOTELS IN THE U.S. Do you love mid-century modernism and want to stay in a hotel that reflects the style? If so, you’ll have no trouble finding accommodations when traveling in the Unites States because the design movement known for its clean lines and low-key glamour has deep roots all over the country. What started in California and the Southwest became popular across America (and with good reason!). While springing from a unique moment in time, the design aesthetic embraces a timeless chic factor that’s difficult to deny.
43 bhgrecollection.com | 42 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 TRAVEL From swanky bungalows in Palm Springs (arguably the mid-century modern capital of the U.S. ) to curvilinear high-rise hotels in Washington, D.C. (where, thankfully, good design helped erase a scandalous past), options for immersing yourself in the ‘golden age’ of style abound. Here are six amazing mid-century modern hotels in the U.S. L’HORIZON RESORT & SPA PALM SPRINGS, CA William F. Cody, an influential desert architect working in Palm Springs during the peak of the mid-century modern movement, designed L’Horizon Resort & Spa in 1952. In its heyday, the resort, composed of 25 bungalows, drew celebrities like Betty Grable and Marilyn Monroe into its fold. Today, architecture enthusiasts, mid-century modern design buffs, and travelers alike recognize L’Horizon as one of California's most exceptional examples of modern design. The already stylish resort received a luxurious facelift in our modern age from a multimillion-dollar renovation that brought new, cozy cabanas to the pool area and Le Labo bath products and Frette linens to the guest rooms. L’Horizon is an architecturally special desert oasis tucked discreetly into the heart of Palm Canyon Drive, the place to be in Palm Springs. HOTEL VALLEY HO SCOTTSDALE, AZ Hotel Valley Ho is a mid-century modern gem offering a splash of color and cool design in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona. Built in 1956, the anything-but-boring hotel quickly became a playground for stars like Zsa Zsa Gabor, Bing Crosby, and Tony Curtis, who wanted to indulge in a desert getaway without attracting the paparazzi. While Hotel Valley Ho fell into disrepair after the death of its original owner, Rober Foehl, in 1973, it underwent a transformation and re-opened in 2005 to renewed acclaim. Hotel Valley Ho is a fun and memorable alternative to chain hotels in downtown Scottsdale. It offers many great amenities for those who want to step back in time, such as a palm-covered pool and an on-site restaurant serving classic cocktails. Hotel Valley Ho even has a spa offering services like hot stone massages and antioxidant facials, perfect for a day of pampering.
45 bhgrecollection.com | 44 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 TRAVEL THE STANDARD SPA MIAMI, FL Previously the Lido Spa Hotel, birthed in the 1960’s from the bones of the Monterey Motel, The Standard Spa, Miami Beach retains elements of its mid-century modern past while providing travelers with an amplified design and accommodation experience. The hotel sits on Belle Island, a serene residential island just off South Beach. It's close enough to the hip cafes and nightclubs but ideally removed from the middle of Miami’s always-on party scene. The Standard Spa is an amazing property offering tropical gardens, an outdoor bar and grill, trendy guest rooms, and relaxing treatments in an adult-only spa. AVALON HOTEL BEVERLY HILLS, CA The Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills has hosted a myriad of recognizable personalities since its opening in 1948 and the height of its popularity in the 1950s. Mae West, Desi Arnaz, Lucille Ball, and Marilyn Monroe are some of the big names that have rested their heads at this chic boutique hotel, which top interior designer Kelly Wearstler updated in 1999. Nestled in the heart of gorgeous and glamourous Beverly Hills, the Avalon Hotel delights with a boomerang-shaped pool, an ultra-cool pale blue color palette, and always in-season fare served poolside at its Viviane restaurant and bar. THE PEARL HOTEL SAN DIEGO, CA What do you get when you retrofit a vintage motel for today’s modern traveler? A treat for the eyes and even more conveniences for those seeking a respite in almost-always sunny California. The Pearl Hotel is a cute and lively mid-century-inspired boutique property located minutes from the best of San Diego. The Gaslamp Quarter, Ocean Beach, and more are just moments from this Point Loma hotel, which features a community-favorite restaurant, a happy hour bar, and an oyster-shaped pool. THE WATERGATE HOTEL WASHINGTON, D.C. Unapologetically luxurious and proud of its design history, The Watergate Hotel isn’t about to hide away due to its scandalous past. This retro high-rise hotel that became known for its dubious Nixon dealings is embracing its former glamour and reintroducing modern travelers to its midcentury roots. Built in 1961, the hotel’s architecture is distinct, with gracefully flowing curves coming together to create a complex of four structures. Its refreshed interiors welcome guests into redefined elegance, with retroglam guest rooms and suites, a stylish restaurant overlooking the Potomac, and a rooftop bar.
47 bhgrecollection.com | 46 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 TRAVEL 8 most romantic CITIES IN THE U.S. A romantic trip with your significant other is a great way to nurture or rekindle your relationship, but even if you've been thinking about getting away, you might not know which cities to visit. There’s no shortage of places to escape for a dreamy vacation in the United States. So, whether you want to spend quiet time on a beach, walk hand-inhand down a historic street, or experience another type of blissful encounter together, there’s a place that will be perfect for both of you.
49 bhgrecollection.com | 48 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 14 While you can undoubtedly hop a flight to Europe or the Caribbean for romance, don’t rule out the epic adventures you and your significant other can enjoy in the United States. There are plenty of options for bonding on weekend drives to spectacular places or longer encounters lasting an entire week or month. And, you don't have to wait for an anniversary or a special occasion. Your relationship is special, so take some time to consider when and how you can make your romantic travel dream a reality. Make a point to set aside some dates on your calendar to focus on letting your love flourish. We found eight cities that offer everything couples might want: stunning scenery, amazing restaurants, a vibrant culture, and gorgeous hotels. SEDONA, AZ Sedona captivates with its striking terrain, charming shops, and brilliant night sky. Couples visiting this romantic U.S. city can enjoy hiking, wine tasting, and stargazing, among many other memorable activities. Looking for an especially serene and scenic point of interest to explore together? Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which sits perched in the red rocks of beautiful Sonoma or slip away to one of the city's world-class spas. MIAMI, FL Miami is an ideal spot for romance for couples who don’t want to run out of things to do together. Beautiful beaches, chic cafes, incredible architecture, and lively music create a vibe that should energize even the most stagnant relationship. Where should you stay for a romantic trip in Miami? Center yourself near South Beach, where lively nightclubs and music bring a one-of-a-kind energy to date nights or remove yourself from the bustle of the city center and relax in Coconut Grove. Don’t miss an opportunity to explore one of the most incredible U.S. cities as a team. NASHVILLE, TN You don’t have to love country music to find romance in Nashville, but it helps if you do. All couples can surely appreciate the unique gems in this city like the Botanical Garden and Museum of Art. But for a true Nashville experience and ultra-romantic getaway, you’ll want to live the life of a cowboy or cowgirl in love and cuddle next to each other for a show at the famous Ryman Auditorium. The Grand Ole Opry is also a fun spot to visit as a couple, and of course it’s fun to check out all the bars on Broadway with a special someone. NEW ORLEANS, LA While wild street parties and voodoo dolls aren’t romantic, smooth jazz and intimate courtyards are, and New Orleans has these romantic offerings and much more. The historic city made famous by Bourbon Street and the French Quarter is overflowing with cozy corners and sensual sounds that will bring you and your significant other closer together. When visiting New Orleans as a couple, set aside plenty of time to discover this destination’s rich history and iconic buildings, among other unique features. CHARLESTON, SC Charleston has a wonderful restaurant scene, with many unique settings for romantic meals and intimate date nights over drinks. Couples visiting this U.S. city can take leisurely walks down cobbled streets lined with colorful historic homes and trek along miles of sandy seashore or through a lush park. KAILUA-KONA, HI Tucked into the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kailua-Kona is a charming town where you and your loved one can spend moment after moment on pristine beaches and golf courses, in eclectic shops and restaurants, and more. This romantic locale features picture-perfect white sand shores, ideal for picture taking and sunbathing, and it allows couples to enjoy fun activities together like snorkeling and wildlife watching. ASPEN, CO Cozying up to a warm fire, taking a hotair balloon ride, and relaxing in a 5-star luxury hotel like the St. Regis are just some of the romantic things to do in Aspen. Of course, this city is known for its skiing and snowboarding, too. So, whether you and your partner want to spend quality downtime together or get active as a couple, you’ll find that this U.S. destination offers it all. ST. AUGUSTINE, FL Not all couples think about Florida first when trying to decide where to go for a romantic vacation. But this state surprises with its abundance of destinations that foster loving encounters, such as the cute and picturesque St. Augustine. Downtown St. Augustine has hundreds of years of history to uncover, along with many excellent waterfront eateries and bars to linger in. For an extra-romantic trip to St. Augustine, visit during December and stroll through the Night of Lights, when nearly three million white lights adorn the city’s buildings. TRAVEL
LUXURY PROPERTIES 50 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® 51 bhgrecollection.com | 601 PALM CAY, YAMACRAW, NASSAU, BAHAMAS Beautiful ocean views and quiet beachfront enjoyment are constant in this well-appointed unit. Partially furnished, with a coastal inspired interior that brings the tranquility indoors, this townhouse is 90% completed and one of the only double units in the community. 5 bedrooms, 6 baths $2,900,000 MLS: 54827 TIMOTHY SMITH timothy@bettermcrbahamas.com W. (242)677-8255 | M. (242)426-7292 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MCR BAHAMAS One West Plaza, Unit A7, Windsor Field Road, Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas GREYSTONE, THE CUT BEACH, EXUMA, BAHAMAS This 7-bedroom, 5,000-square-foot beachfront haven offers unrivaled luxury with panoramic ocean views. Enjoy the seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor living. Lounge on the expansive patio or take a dip in the diamond-bright infinity pool, seamlessly blending with the Atlantic. 7 bedrooms, 4 baths $3,200,000 MLS: 55328 TIMOTHY SMITH timothy@bettermcrbahamas.com W. (242)677-8255 | M. (242)426-7292 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MCR BAHAMAS One West Plaza, Unit A7, Windsor Field Road, Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas THIRTYSIX PENTHOUSE # 1, NASSAU, BAHAMAS The most contemporary condo building on Paradise Island. This penthouse unit is an end unit, making it one of the largest units in the building. The condo boasts 1,417-square-foot of interior space and a massive 1,794-square-foot of patio space, inclusive of the large rooftop terrace. 2 bedrooms, 3 baths $1,600,000 MLS: 55587 TIMOTHY SMITH timothy@bettermcrbahamas.com W. (242)677-8255 | M. (242)426-7292 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MCR BAHAMAS One West Plaza, Unit A7, Windsor Field Road, Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas SKY BEACH RESORT, GOVERNORS HARBOUR, ELEUTHERA, BAHAMAS This opulent pre-construction residence in Sky Beach Resort offers direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. The home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and interiors that blend modern comfort with tropical elegance. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, soaring ceilings, and luxurious finishes. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths $1,250,000 MLS: 56107 OLIVIA ARMALY olivia@bettermcrbahamas.com W. (242)677-8255 | M. (242)466-9737 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MCR BAHAMAS One West Plaza, Unit A7, Windsor Field Road, Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas view listing view listing view listing view listing
LUXURY PROPERTIES 52 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® 53 bhgrecollection.com | 1259 NE FILLMORE STREET, BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 Modern living in downtown Bentonville. This 2021 home is right by the trail system and Crystal Bridges, which holds the largest collection of American artists in the world. This newer home is big on style with tall ceilings, amazing light and a great kitchen. 4 bedrooms, 4 baths $1,385,000 MLS: 1267542 JOHN MAYER john@mayerteamnwa.com W. (479)319-3737 | M. (479)644-1849 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE JOURNEY 523 SE 6th Street Bentonville, AR 72712 506 ONE OCEAN, PARADISE ISLAND, BAHAMAS This fifth-floor condo at One Ocean is fully furnished and designed to offer a sumptuous waterfront experience. This unit is overlooking the Nassau Harbour, with a spacious open floor plan, ample natural light and high-end finishes. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths $1,550,000 MLS: 53692 TIMOTHY SMITH timothy@bettermcrbahamas.com W. (242)677-8255 | M. (242)426-7292 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MCR BAHAMAS One West Plaza, Unit A7, Windsor Field Road, Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas 508 W CENTRAL AVENUE, BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 Located in the historical district in Bentonville, Arkansas, this amazing bungalow is something out of a story book. Built in 1913, this iconic downtown home was the first craftsman-style house in Bentonville. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths $1,600,000 MLS: 1270509 TRACEY HENDREN tracey@bhgre-journey.com W. (479)319-3737 | M. (479)295-7590 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE JOURNEY 523 SE 6th Street Bentonville, AR 72712 OCEAN CLUB ESTATES, PARADISE ISLAND, BAHAMAS This waterfront home in Ocean Club Estates sits on a 27,416-square-foot lot with 150 feet on the Nassau Harbour. The 9,000-square-foot home features 3 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 2 guest cottages, and an infinity-edge pool. 5 bedrooms, 6 baths $13,900,000 MLS: 52730 TIMOTHY SMITH timothy@bettermcrbahamas.com W. (242)677-8255 | M. (242)426-7292 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MCR BAHAMAS One West Plaza, Unit A7, Windsor Field Road, Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas view listing view listing view listing view listing
LUXURY PROPERTIES 54 | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® 55 bhgrecollection.com | 15533 HAYNES ROAD, ROGERS, AR 72756 Welcome to paradise on Beaver Lake. Boasting over 7,100-square-feet of living space, 4 slip private dock on over 1 acre creates the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility. The interior design is a true masterpiece of architecture. 5 bedrooms, 5 baths $2,250,000 MLS: 1262696 TONYA SETZER setzersells@gmail.com W. (479)319-3737 | M. (479)381-0512 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE JOURNEY 523 SE 6th Street Bentonville, AR 72712 627 SE D STREET, BENTONVILLE, AR 72712 This custom-designed home in downtown Bentonville, inspired by the Ozarks and modern design, is near the new Walmart Campus and Crystal Bridges Museum. Bentonville, known for Walmart, art, food, and mountain biking, offers over 200 miles of trails. 4 bedrooms, 5 baths $3,783,785 MLS: 1274011 JOHN MAYER john@mayerteamnwa.com W. (479)319-3737 | M. (479)644-1849 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE JOURNEY 523 SE 6th Street Bentonville, AR 72712 3352 STUDIO DRIVE, CAYUCOS, CA 93430 This oceanfront custom home, remodeled in 2017, offers three bedrooms and three bathrooms, including two primary suites. The downstairs suite features a gas fireplace, a large bathtub, an open shower, in-floor heat, double sinks, and an electric skylight. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths $4,750,000 MLS: SC23088042 KATHY TAVERNER tavernerkathy@gmail.com W. (805)592-2050 | M. (805)235-0437 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE HAVEN PROPERTIES 805 Main Street Morro Bay, CA 93442 8200 HIGHWAY 221, EUREKA SPRINGS, AR 72632 Welcome to this magnificent custom-built, locally-milled log home nestled on 12-acres, offering a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature's beauty. Located within access to the Kings River. This home provides the perfect blend of rustic comfort, modern living, and outdoor recreation. 3 bedrooms, 4 baths $1,900,000 MLS: 1249905 BRANDIE PERRY brandiesperry@gmail.com W. (479)319-3737 | M. (479)640-7773 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE JOURNEY 523 SE 6th Street Bentonville, AR 72712 view listing view listing view listing view listing
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