Diane Russell Knight
Where I live: I left a house in Robinwood for a patio home in west Little Rock about two years ago. It's about five minutes from my shop. I share my home with Annie and Sophie, my two Shih Tzus.
Occupation: I am the owner of Diane's Gourmet Foods, where we sell prepared foods and gourmet items and gift items for entertaining, and we also do catering.
My favorite space: My kitchen/den combo.
Why? I love cooking and entertaining. Whether it's for two guests or 40, it is all easy for me and fun. I can seat 20 at my dining table, but I really do more entertaining in my kitchen/den. I have a clunky pine table in the kitchen with Chippendale chairs painted blueberry and seats covered in a multicolored fabric. James Hayes copied the colors from this fabric and made a marvelous chandelier that hangs over the table. The kitchen opens onto a den where friends and family gather for informal parties or to watch award shows, football games or -- now -- Downton Abbey. I love coming home to this cozy kitchen/den area. Shelves are filled with memories of numerous trips around the world. I relax with an espresso, my Kindle and surrounded with lots of dog toys.
If I could make one change to improve this space, I would: I would move a fireplace from another room into here, where I spend most of my time.
-- Libby Smith
HomeStyle on 03/14/2015