St. Louis Homes & Lifestyles has enjoyed a valued 19-year partnership with the Missouri Botanical Garden. Opened in 1859 by Henry Shaw as a place for the city’s residents to love, the Missouri Botanical Garden has been a landmark in St. Louis for more than 150 years. Each issue, we will share a small slice of the garden with you in Shaw’s Vision. Discover the beauty and knowledge this St. Louis gem has to offer.

Italy reigns as “il numero uno” among wines imported to the United States. But in Italy, grappa is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages. You might say that grappa is the cool, younger, indie cousin to its older, more worldly and established wine relative, as both have their roots in Italian vineyards and, since 1989, only grappa produced in Italy can be labeled grappa. Being deep into a St. Louis winter, it’s the perfect time to curl up in front of a roaring fire with a tall flute filled with an artisanal grappa while you get the scoop about this native Italian spirit.

For many the idea of designing a functional and beautiful home in less than 1,000 square feet is pie in the sky. But for loft owner Joan Hoff, whose seventh-story revamp on Washington Avenue defies the standard of urban living, design ideals are more simple and grounded than most would expect.

Experience delectable design in these six outstanding kitchens.

Platinum Winners:
Kitchen Liberty, Less than 250 square feet

brooksBerry & Associates, 250-400 square feet

RJ Mayer Development, More than 400 square feet

Gold Winners:

On the Curve

With little room for prep work, poor lighting and a dreary appearance, newly married homeowners David and Ellen Sullivan knew their kitchen was in need of a makeover. To make the space their own, they called upon designer Jonathan Carson, owner of Kitchen Liberty. Initially the couple contemplated removing a wall dividing the kitchen and breakfast room to expand the space. Carson encouraged the couple to keep the wall to avoid additional costs.

Paris Comes to St. Louis