An emphasis on some of the best moments of the new issue, historic sets, home design tips and more.
Credit: Josie Burnett
On the Fly
When thinking of ideal weather for a photo shoot, it’s not always what you’d expect. Take our Mayfly Project story for example.
“The morning we photographed Jess Westbrook, it was gray and drizzling outside — it was perfect!” art director Emma Devine says. “The sky created a natural, even light, and we were even treated to some glorious fog, just the right setting for our shoot out on the water. While the camera clicked away, we spotted a heron taking off from its perch. With Jess standing in the river casting his line, it was like being inside of a painting.”
Soirée Recommends
Team Soirée would like to extend another round of congratulations to the winners of our 16th annual Soirée Recommends: Platinum Service Awards. Each is chosen by our readers as a reflection of the top-notch quality services they provide, and we’re thrilled to do Little Rock life with them all. Cheers!
Standout Quote
“First and foremost,
trust your intuition.”
Credit: Josie Burnett
Living History
We never object to a morning spent at Blackberry Market, and for this month’s feature, we got to properly take in the bygone shadows and warm new trappings of the 1912 structure.
“The historic Argenta district has many beautiful buildings, and this is one of them. On the rustic wall behind the coffee bar, you can see the faint outline of a staircase leading up toward the windows, marking the remnants of the E.O. Manees building’s many past lives,” stylist Josie Burnett says.
“In the loft, there are two incredible skylights that completely open and brighten the area. When Whitney and Peter Loibner bought the space, they could see light shining through the ceiling’s wood slats. They quickly removed these to reveal two hidden gems and show off even more of the space’s gorgeous historic features.”
Interior Inspo
For this month’s cover story, Heather Mason welcomed us into her beautiful home and allowed us to stage the elevated game night setup we couldn’t stop thinking about. Mason, an interior designer who also works at Urban Pad, designed and decorated the space herself, and of course we had questions.
How would you describe the vibe of your home?
HM: California modern. We wanted to mix modern lines with comfortable furniture and a natural color palette to fit our relaxed lifestyle.
Where did you find inspiration?
HM: Travel, social media and the furniture market.
How does designing for clients differ from your own space?
HM: No space or client is the same. Every client has a different desire, including myself. It’s important that every space fulfills a person’s own style, comfort and lifestyle.
What piece in your living room stands out to you and why?
HM: My marble statue of a Labrador from Urban Pad. My lab, Walter, passed away last year and it makes me feel like he is still sitting by the fire.
Where are your favorite local shops for home decor? Any local artists you love?
HM: My go-to for everything furniture is Urban Pad. I also like Cantrell Furniture Design Center and M2 Gallery. Local artists I love are Lisa Krannichfeld, Sean Shrum and Ashley Murphy.
In your opinion, what is the most overlooked element of a living space?
HM: Lighting and pillows. They’re like jewelry for the house.
What advice would you give to someone struggling to define their style?
HM: Collect pictures and furniture images that inspire you, and then hire a professional. They will hone in on the direction you are going and help you find the style that fits you.