Looking Ahead
I’ve been thinking about this Home & Garden issue for a year. We came across the Patel family’s beautiful modern home last spring and immediately knew photographer Beth Mann had to capture it at the height of summer. It wasn’t hard to convince the family to have friends and neighbors over for a swim at their pool – they regularly gather together for dinner. The Patels – whose story begins on page 66 – were kind enough to invite me to one of their neighborhood pizza nights and, though I had to take a rain check, I felt welcomed into a tight-knit group.
And don’t miss reading about the Estes Hills Elementary School garden on page 60. Started by Gifted Specialist Kathleen Eveleigh, the plot of land just behind the school has blossomed into a rich, hands-on learning experience for kids. It’s brought together dedicated parent volunteers and even members of the Chapel Hill Garden Club with no affiliation to the school. The garden’s bounty is shared with families and community members who may not have access to fresh produce.
I know I speak for everyone when I say that we feel privileged to be stewards of the community. It’s my absolute pleasure to share the best of Chapel Hill and the people who make our town so special in each issue. In the final days before we put this issue to press, our staff started working from home and practicing “social distancing,” as schools closed and restaurants resorted to takeout orders only. At press time, we didn’t know how or when the disruptions to our lives would end, but one thing is certain – we’re going to continue to celebrate and support our incredible, resilient community. – Jessica Stringer
April 2020
BEST OF THE OUTDOORS
34 | Full Bloom
The North Carolina Botanical Garden works to cure ‘plant blindness’ with 2020’s Year of the Wildflower
42 | Just Row With It
Carolina Masters Crew Club has combined camaraderie and competition for nearly 30 years
48 | Your Spring Checklist
Get outside and take advantage of these alfresco activities
THE HOME & GARDEN ISSUE
52 | How Does Your Garden Grow?
A sneak peek at three spots featured on the next Chapel Hill Garden Tour
60 | Digging In
The Estes Hills Elementary School garden has grown into much more than dirt and plants
66 | Perfect Harmony
The Patel family’s custom-built home feels like part of the forest
78 | Cooking in Style
Draw inspiration from these three sophisticated kitchen renovations
IN EVERY ISSUE
Events not to miss
20 | What We’re Eating
News from our restaurant community, plus a dish we love
22 | Chef’s Table
We asked four industry pros: Was there one meal or moment that made you think, “I want to be a chef”
24 | Noted
What we’ve heard around town
La Bête Noire Torte
102 | Weddings
Kaitlyn Raitano and Jarred Watts
David Barton and Leigh Morrow
Van Hatchell and Lucy Ireland
BUSINESS
30 | Financial Wellness at Any Age
Achieving financial security is on everyone’s list, but how to make that happen varies with every individual situation. These local financial advisors have a few more suggestions.
PEOPLE & PLACES
12 The Carolina Inn’s Event Showcase
14 Dixie Rock climbing competition
16 Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce’s 2020 Awards Gala & Chamber Celebration