He Shed
Owners: Jason and Lori Smith
The Cove is a rustic, country-style sports barn located next to the Smiths’ pool. Jason chose the theme based upon his proud Hoosier heritage. It is a collection of Indiana sports memorabilia, arcade games, pool tables, darts, multiple TV screens and a fully stocked bar.
It occupies a 36-by-25-foot detached garage the couple detailed with 110-year-old barn wood, a large sign displaying The Cove from the concourse bar of Victory Field, and an old scoreboard from Center Grove High School.
The Cove has become a popular space for parties for family and friends. The Smiths have hosted Super Bowl parties, graduation celebrations and even gender reveal parties. Jason says they enjoy using the space for quiet romantic date nights as well elaborate masquerade balls.
Jason recalls that his favorite memory made in the space was their first End of Summer Disco Dance party. A team of family and friends helped transform The Cove into a functioning ‘70s-themed disco hall. Everyone came in costume, and there was no shortage of memories made that day according to Jason.
Like many man caves, The Cove is always evolving, and the couple looks forward to adding more Hoosier history to the space and hosting many more parties!
She Shed
Owners: Beth and Charlie Manzione
Beth, an artist, has a love for New Orleans’ rich culture of history, art, cuisine and spiritual lore. She loves it so much she and Charlie created their own New Orleans-inspired courtyard at their residence. The couple tend to be more private and their space is primarily for their personal enjoyment.
The space occupies a deck, a workshop, and a 75-by-25-foot courtyard behind their home enclosed by a tall privacy fence. The space is multifunctional – the couple enjoys their morning coffee on the deck, and they gaze at the stars in the evenings. In between, Beth creates beautiful art in the form of paintings, cut glass and wooden framing.
The courtyard is adorned with many of the New Orleans-themed paintings Beth has created. The couple was very intentional with every aspect of their courtyard. They enjoy watching the accent lighting come to life as the sun goes down, making the space feel magical, “like we are between worlds,” Beth says.
Their creation has been a labor of love, with every step of the process being thought out with a balance of form and function. It’s a small backyard nestled in a sweet little town, yet it is a space that feels expansive and full of mystery.
The next addition to the space will be a small plunge pool and additional landscaping. Beth’s beautiful New Orleans-inspired murals create a welcoming and mystical space that allows her artistry to flourish. Their beautiful creation was on display at a previous Franklin Garden Walk.
Do you have a space you would like to share with our readers? Send a few pictures and a description to walesatwork@yahoo.com and your space might make a future appearance in Franklin Magazine.