Philbrook Museum of Art’s next exhibit sounds as if it should be displayed in a science lab instead of sharing a roof with Picasso. Welcome to the wonderfully inventive world of Brazil’s Campana brothers.

Antibodies: The Works of Fernando & Humberto Campana, 1989-2009 opens July 15 in Tulsa and runs through Oct. 7. The collection features furniture design by the pair. Humberto was a self-taught artist with a law degree, and Fernando had trained to be an architect. Right away, their furniture sculptures stirred the art scene in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Chairs are hand woven, and plush seating bears resemblance to sea anemone and other creatures subterranean or subcutaneous. Simple tables and ottomans look capable of locomotion via means seen but through a microscope. This retrospective show of the Campana brothers’ work across two decades was created by the Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rhein in Germany.

Two years ago, Philbrook announced a partnership with the Vitra Design Museum. Since its beginnings in 1989, the design museum has become one of the most renowned cultural institutions recognized for its research and promotion of design and architecture. The arrangement means Philbrook is the only place you will experience the exhibit for more than 200 miles.

Antibodies is the first of three Vitra collections planned for exhibit in Tulsa through 2016 and a fine complement to Philbrook’s own efforts to expand its collection of contemporary design pieces in addition to its fine art holdings.

The exhibit, divided into nine modules (Fragmentos, Hibridos, etc.), brings an exciting visual language in color, shape and unexpected materials to the ordinary.

For more, go online to www.philbrook.org.

Quinoa is a delicious, super-nutritious food that suffers from a bit of an identity crisis. Neither a pasta nor a grain, it is actually the seed of the goosefoot plant that is related to beets, spinach and Swiss chard. Native to areas around the Andes Mountains, including Chile, Bolivia and Peru, quinoa was first eaten by the Incas some 5,000 years ago. Instead of serving regular rice pilaf as an accompaniment to chicken or fish, try this tasty version using quinoa. Prepare as directed below or experiment with different vegetables, depending on personal taste.

As architect Jack Arnold reviewed the design requirements of his Tulsa clients, a challenge quickly emerged.

“They wanted their two teenage children to have a sense of ‘ownership’ in their new home,” says Arnold.

“It was important to us that they get a chance to live in the house before going to college,” added the homeowner.

Soon they recognized the design and building process might take too long. So when the couple discovered a friend was selling his Midtown Tulsa home, designed by Jack Arnold in the mid-1990s, they wondered if it could be adapted with their plans.

The homeowners assembled their design team including Arnold, interior designer Charles Faudree and builder Brian Jordan of Tony Jordan and Sons. They credit the overwhelming success of the project to interaction from each of the professionals. “It was truly a team effort,” say the homeowners.

The stately country-style home needed a significant addition to meet the new owners’ goals. “But we didn’t want it to overpower the existing home,” says Arnold.

Some of the existing space worked perfectly without changes. Faudree was the original interior designer, and the living room furnishings were purchased with the house. The kitchen was updated, creating an Old World style with a hint of modern detail. The cabinets were painted black and updated appliances added, from a built-in coffee system to warming drawers. A stainless steel countertop accents the Viking stove and glass, and copper and aluminum tiles sparkle from the backsplash beneath the custom designed hood.

Two different wings of the house – the existing family room and the bedrooms – were transitioned into two bedroom suites, one for each child. “We wanted them to feel comfortable coming back and staying here whether it is with their college friends or even after they have families of their own,” says the homeowner.

While the couple does some entertaining, it is typically smaller, more intimate gatherings. The predominate focus was on creating an inviting family home for children and friends, so a spacious family/media room was imperative. According to Arnold, there was only one option on the lot where the new construction could occur and it required a walkway transition from the existing structure.

“We’d been planning a wine cellar in the design for a new house,” says the homeowner, so the wine hallway was created leading to the family room and is visible from several different locations within the home. Steel and glass design details were replicated from the home’s front doors. Arnold designed and had custom-fabricated a wine display system that makes the bottles appear to float in front of the rock wall. Arnold credits Brian Jordan and his construction crew for the tedious and impeccable installation. The bottles sparkle beneath the LED ceiling lights, and a special wine refrigeration unit keeps the collection at the perfect temperature.

A new master suite – including a sitting room, office, exercise room and sauna – was also added. “When we travel, we love spa amenities and wanted that resort feel,” the homeowner explains. One of the most intriguing uses of space is the inclusion of a certified tornado safe room that doubles as a massage room.

Faudree worked with the clients to create a restful, quiet bedroom area of casual elegance. Walls are a painted panel mold below with upholstered aqua linen above. The draperies are bordered with contrasting silk. As in other areas of the house, existing and new furnishings were blended. “The homeowners are the nicest people,” says Faudree. “Plus they have great taste.”

After 18 months of renovation, the family has settled in their new home although they continue to make a few changes. “It’s a work in progress,” says the homeowner.
 

Sangria is a wine punch, historically credited to Spain and Portugal, and traditionally served at informal get-togethers. It’s never too late to begin your own tradition with refreshing, summery sangrias.

Most sangrias are made with red wine and different fruits, usually berries, limes, apples and peaches. A sweetener such as honey or orange juice is also added. The ingredients usually are chilled for an entire day, before ice is added and the sangria is served.

For those who want to experiment this summer, try some simple variations. If red wine is not a favorite, then use white wine to make sangria blanca. Changing the fruits can make a big difference too. If someone loves mango and pineapple, make a tropical sangria. If someone is allergic to berries, keep them out. Lower calorie sangria can be sweetened with agave nectar.  

For a stronger kick, add some brandy or rum. Some people may wish to add club soda for carbonation. Ginger ale provides spice and a sweeter flavor. Since alcohol content depends on what recipe you use, take care to enjoy safely. Above all, make enough for a summer party, or just for one on a patio.

Finding a home to accommodate the newly blended family of five children, ranging in age from middle school to college, was a challenge until the homeowners discovered this Midtown two-story, four-bedroom residence with a pool house that had languished abandoned for many months.

Although it was in the process of being renovated by a builder, the couple called interior designer Rick Phillips to see what could be done to make this house work for them. Since they were still living between two homes, it was imperative to complete the renovation quickly so the two families could be together. And because both homeowners are busy professionals, they relied on Phillips to fast track the design and construction.

“They wanted it to look like an old New England farmhouse that had been added onto a few times,” says Phillips. So the living room, foyer and kitchen walls were clad with limestone, providing a stunning backdrop for the owners’ art collection. The existing wood floors were refinished with a Scandinavian natural color in a commercial satin, dog-proof finish and showcase an extensive rug collection.

Phillips focused first on the spacious kitchen area that is the hub of the family’s activities. “We removed a small island and replaced it with one 14 feet long, adding a sink, second dishwasher and tons of storage,” explains Phillips. The homeowners selected extra thick, double-pitched edge granite countertops, and Phillips designed the end-grain walnut counter that cantilevers over the island at one end. “It’s a great gathering place for the kids to eat, do homework and keep the cook company,” Phillips adds.

LED lights highlight the pillowed walnut tiles on the backsplash of the custom bar area. Having worked with Phillips previously, the homeowners knew his penchant for lighting design and wanted plenty of light throughout the home. Trough lights gleam from above the island, while task and ambient lighting creates a warm environment.

In the adjoining living area, Phillips designed floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, ceiling coffers and beams from locally milled knotty alder to blend with the existing knotty alder kitchen cabinets. A motorized roller shade blocks the harsh sun and provides privacy.

The second floor master bedroom has a great view across the backyard but was a builder’s beige palette ready for some personality. Phillips chose a dark chocolate, embossed alligator wall covering that creates a quiet softness. Multiple coats of silver satin metallic paint enhance the coved ceiling. Motorized sheers and draperies with blackout lining offer various controls for tempering the southern daylight. The antique desk and chest used as bedside tables are from the owner’s grandparents.

The master bathroom is an unusual shape, carved from attic space years previously. The decision was made to keep the builder’s beige flooring, but Phillips incorporated a rich green marble for the base material as well as for the countertops and trim. Pieces of textured marble tile were meticulously applied to the wall above the large bathtub and near the shower, creating a luxurious appeal.

“I love the ability to see my children in the backyard from my master bedroom and bath as well as the kitchen and family room,” says the homeowner. “It is open and cozy.”
But as much as she enjoys these areas, “the backyard is my favorite,” she says.

 Comfortable seating and a dining area surround the stone fireplace and flat screen TV. Just beyond the outdoor living area is a custom saltwater pool with an integrated spa. A swim jet was installed so the athletic couple can minimize trips to the health club. And this newly blended family went together to the stone yard to pick the perfect diving rock installed at the deep end. The inviting backyard is a popular place to gather with an activity for everyone in the family.

“I have one word – awesome,” says the homeowner of the backyard.

 Artist

A successful artist couples vision with raw talent to create works to behold. In Tulsa, sculptor Rosalind Cook once again receives the top spot as best artist, as voted by our readers. Pat Gordon also receives recognition, while Otto Duecker rounds out the top three.

In Oklahoma City, Desmond Mason proves he’s multi-dimensional, as the former pro basketball player has made the successful transition to a second career as an artist. Local artists Bert Seabourn and Kate Mendenhall also receive recognition.

Charity Event

Raising funds for good causes can be great fun. This is exhibited especially by this year’s selection of top charity events. In Tulsa, Carnivale, benefiting Mental Health Association in Tulsa, earns the top spot this year, followed by Painted Pony Ball, which benefits The Children’s Hospital Foundation at Saint Francis, and Pink Ribbon Event, which raises money for Oklahoma Project Woman, and Red Ribbon Gala, benefiting Tulsa CARES.

Oklahoma City’s Red Tie Night, benefiting Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund, is the top charity event, followed by Infant Crisis Services’ Boots & Ball Gowns, and Renaissance Ball, which benefits Oklahoma City Museum of Art.

Chef

Becoming a top chef requires equal parts technical ability and artistry. Tulsa’s Tuck Curren, chef of Biga and Local Table, earned the most votes this year, followed by Justin Thompson of Juniper and James Shrader of Palace Café.

Renowned chef Ryan Parrott, who now heads the kitchen of Norman farm-to-table restaurant Local, earns top honors this year, followed by Ludivine’s Jonathon Stranger and Flint Restaurant’s Andrew Black.

CEO

Top CEOs have more than just business expertise; they also know how to create great working environments for their employees. George Kaiser, CEO of  GBK Corp., parent of Kaiser-Francis Oil Company and Chairman, BOK Financial Corp., is once again named top CEO by our Tulsa voters. Jake Henry Jr., CEO of Saint Francis Health System, and Paula Marshall, CEO of The Bama Companies, round out this year’s list.

In Oklahoma City, Aubrey McClendon CEO of energy giant Chesapeake Energy, was recognized for his leadership, as were Devon Energy CEO J. Larry Nichols and OU Medical Center CEO Cole Eslyn.

Company to Work For

Great employers create enjoyable work environment as well as benefits and incentives that make it a joy to go to work each day. Saint Francis Health System was voted top company to work for by our Tulsa readers, followed by ONEOK and Williams Companies. Cherokee Nation Businesses and New Dominion round out the Tulsa list.

Chesapeake Energy was once again recognized as tops in Oklahoma City, followed by Devon Energy and OU Medicine. Continental Resources and Chickasaw Nation round out the Oklahoma City list.

Local Icon/Landmark

There are some people and places that are ubiquitous in our communities. In Tulsa, BOK Center earns top recognition. Country superstar Garth Brooks and Tulsa’s Golden Driller also received recognition by Tulsa readers.

In Oklahoma City, it’s the magic he displays on the basketball court that makes Kevin Durant the top local icon. Durant’s “office,” the Chesapeake Energy Arena, also earns a nod, as does Flaming Lips front man Wayne Coyne.

Local Radio Personality

We listen to them for both news and entertainment, but who ranks as The Best of the Best radio personalities? In Tulsa, it’s KRMG’s Joe Kelley, followed by Cash and Carey on KWEN. KMOD’s Lynn Hernandez rocks out along with his appreciative listeners.

Jack & Ron keep listeners entertained on KYIS in Oklahoma City. Readers also appreciate the morning show of TJ, Janet & JROD on KJYO, as well as Drew & Kaci on KYIS.

Local TV Personality

We rely on television personalities to deliver hard-hitting news as well as entertaining feature stories. In Tulsa, FOX23’s Chera Kimiko once again claims the title of The Best of the Best Local TV Personality in Tulsa. News on 6 anchor Terry Hood also earned votes this year, as did Channel 2’s Karen Larsen.

In Oklahoma City, KFOR’s Linda Cavanaugh was the top vote getter, followed by News 9’s Kelly Ogle and KFOR’s Kevin Ogle.

Meteorologist

Tulsans most heavily rely on KOTV’s Travis Meyer for accurate weather forecasts and the latest updates on severe weather. KJRH’s Dan Threlkeld also received high praise from our readers, as did Frank Mitchell on KTUL Channel 8.

In Oklahoma City, meteorology powerhouse KWTV’s Gary England received the most votes for best meteorologist, followed by KFOR’s Mike Morgan (and his jeweled bow ties) and KOCO’s Rick Mitchell.

Small Town

When city living becomes a little too much, it’s nice to escape to a small community for a little down-home flavor. Muskogee receives top billing in this year’s The Best of the Best list, followed by Shawnee and Claremore.

In Oklahoma City, readers gave props to the (not-so-small) town of Edmond. Guthrie also receives accolades, as do Okarche and Choctaw.

Architect, Residential

Oklahoma has so many talented architects, it’s tough to choose which one is right to turn your dreams into a new home reality. Our Tulsa readers have once again placed Jack Arnold, renowned for his ability to translate classic European designs for modern living, at the top of the list. Alan Madewell of Alan Madewell and Associates comes in next with his exacting designs that recall classic Americana. Rounding out the list are Brian Freese of Freese Architecture and John Duvall of Duvall Architects.

At the top of our Oklahoma City list is the innovative and versatile Rand Elliott of Elliott + Associates Architects, know for truly noteworthy buildings, including select residential projects. Next is Brian Fitzsimmons of Fitzsimmons Architects, whose team creates artistic and unexpected spaces, and is active in OKC urban renewal. With 50-plus years experience, Robert Fillmore of Fillmore & Chambers Design Group rounds out the list.

Architect, Commercial Firm

Matrix Architects Engineers Planners takes the top spot in this new category. This full-service firm has played a role in numerous Tulsa landmarks from the BOK Center to the Hotel Ambassador. Next is the multi-disciplinary team at Kinslow, Keith & Todd, who have put their stamp on projects ranging from shopping centers to country clubs to churches. The 47-year-old firm of Crafton Tull finishes the list.

With more than 30 years in business and extensive experience weighted toward health care and academia, Miles & Associates comes in first in OKC. TAP Architecture is next up for their wide-ranging project list with an emphasis on urban development and preservation. The 65-year-old firm of Frankfurt Short Bruza firm rounds out the list.

Bathroom Fixtures

When building the perfect bath, our Tulsa readers turn to Heatwave Supply Company with popular brands, such as Moen and Kohler and national retailer Lowe’s with its top brands and convenient service. Wide selection and expert service land Ferguson Bath and Kitchen Gallery and The Home Depot the next spot in our poll. Empire Kitchen & Bath, with 20 years in business, is another popular choice with our readers.

When creating a new master suite or powder room, OKC readers most often turn to Morrison Supply Company for their extensive inventory, including Grohe and Kallista. Ferguson Bath & Kitchen Gallery comes in next on our list for their years of superior service and a wide selection of trusted brands. OKC readers also look to Designer Hardware by Faye for original and custom pieces.

Cabinetry

If you’re in the market for new kitchen cabinets, Oklahoma Magazine readers suggest you head to Lowe’s or The Home Depot. The two national retailers offer a range of styles and expert advice and installation. Mill Creek Lumber and Supply, with an inspiring showroom and products from Dura Supreme and Western Cabinets, takes our second spot in Tulsa. Sullivan’s Custom Cabinetry and Jay Rambo share the next place on the list. Both firms have created custom work found in some of Tulsa finest homes.

Classic Kitchen takes top honors with Oklahoma City readers. The exclusive Wood-Mode dealer has been serving the area for almost 30 years. Suburban Cabinet Shop has been designing and building cabinets for OKC dream kitchens for more than 50 years. The award-winning a karen black company and the Old World-style craftsmen at Monticello Cabinets & Doors share the final spot on the list.

Designer Home Furnishings

Whether you’re completely redecorating or just looking for that perfect chair for the living room, there is a furnishings store that will suit your tastes. In Tulsa, our readers love the store of famed interior design firm SR Hughes for its curated collection of furniture from Kartell and Cassina, unique art pieces and global finds. The globally inspired Richard Neel Home, the eponymous store of the noted interior designer, is next on our list, and Natuzzi specialists Urban Furnishings is also popular with readers.

BD Home, located in the posh new Classen Curve, has quickly become the go-to space for OKC readers with an eye for design and a taste for exclusive lines such as Ligne Roset and Moroso. Next, readers looking for traditional furnishings and Old World flair head to Mister Robert Fine Furniture & Design in Norman. Dane Design is another popular choice for readers looking for contemporary furniture.

Fencing

A fence is the tried and true way to add both privacy and security to your property. In Tulsa, our readers trust Jenks Fence for innovative designs, superior service and quality installation. More than 30 years of service and quality products in a range of materials puts Arrow Fence in the next spot on our list, and A-1 Fence Company, with more than 40 years under their belts, is another trusted name.

Our OKC readers looking to get fenced in most often turn to the experts at Bidwell Fence & Deck for everything from chain link to vinyl. With just over 10 years in business Big Fish Fence Service in Piedmont has gained a legion of satisfied customers, taking the second spot in our poll. Marshall Fence, known for everything from ornamental iron to ranch rails, finishes our list.

Flooring Company

No matter what material you’re looking for to cover your floors, Oklahoma Magazine readers have two favorites in Tulsa, Carpet One and Mill Creek Carpet and Tile. Both stores offer a range of products to fit any budget, as well as expert installation. Three more names trusted by our readers, Midwest Marble, Paschal Tile and Tiles & Stones share the next slot, and Floorhaus Design Center and Grigsby’s Carpet, Tile & Rug Gallery round out our survey.

With locations throughout the metro, trusted brands and helpful service, Brewer Carpet One is the top choice for OKC readers looking for carpet, hardwood, tile, laminate or vinyl. Next up is The Floor Trader, which utilizes its national network to offer great prices on most any flooring material you desire. Brim’s Carpet, an OKC favorite for more than half a century, is also a sure bet.

Furniture Store

This year our readers put Hawley Design Furnishings, featuring original designs by Mark Hawley along with those of more than 50 other brands, at the top of the list for place to find The Best of the Best furniture. Mathis Brothers Furniture, an Oklahoma institution for more than 50 years, takes the next spot on the list. Finishing the list are I.O. Metro and Castleberry’s Ethan Allen Home Interiors.

In OKC, readers also turn to industry stalwart Mathis Brothers Furniture for everything from high-end names to value brands at everyday low prices. I.O. Metro takes the next place in our survey, and our readers love their selection of contemporary furniture. Finally, readers looking for everything from modern to traditional also choose Castleberry’s Ethan Allen Home Interiors.

Heating & Air

Oklahoma’s extreme weather requires heating and air conditioning that can keep pace and professionals to install and maintain those systems that know what they’re doing. In Tulsa, our readers give top billing to Airco Service, with more than 50 years experience and the industry’s top brands at their disposal, and DaVco Mechanical Contractors, also offering top brands and superior service. Air Assurance in Broken Arrow takes the next spot on our list and McKinney Heating & Air Conditioning rounds out our top three.

Air Comfort Solutions is once again the top choice among Oklahoma City readers for quality heat and air installation and repair. The pros at OKC favorite Drabek & Hill earn the next spot on our list, and Hinton Refrigeration Co. completes our survey.

Home Builder

Anyone that has ever built a home or lived through a remodel knows having the right builder on your team is essential. Tulsa readers have once again selected Jordan & Sons, the builders behind some of the city’s finest homes, for the top position in our survey. Barron & McClary General Contractors’ stellar reputation earns them the next spot on our list, and luxury builders Hollinger and Associates are another trusted resource.

Top The Best of the Best honors in OKC go to David Giasson Construction, the team behind many of the metro’s most elegant homes. Ideal Homes also got our readers’ attention for their developments throughout the OKC area. Well-known south Oklahoma City developer Odom Construction is another trusted name.

Home Improvement/
Appliance Store

When purchasing a major appliance or picking up the materials for their next weekend warrior project, our readers look for selection, value and expert advice. In Tulsa, readers know that Lowe’s has it all under one roof and Hahn Appliance Warehouse has great selection and deals. In a tie for second place we have The Home Depot and Metro Appliances & More, and The Maytag Store takes the third spot.

Lowe’s is also the top choice for OKC readers with a knack for DIY or a need for a new fridge. Sharing the second spot we have national retailer The Home Depot and local hero Harry’s TV, Video & Appliance. Metro Appliances & More is also a trusted resource for OKC readers.

In-Home Theater

More Oklahomans are equipping their homes with state of the art audio-visual equipment to create in-home theater experiences. In Tulsa, our readers’ top choice to bring the multiplex experience home is Video Revolution. The Phonograph Electronic Architecture is also a popular choice for home theater design as are Elite Sound, Dynamic Audio and Audio Dimension.

OKC readers give Audio Dimensions the edge when it comes to making dreams of a hi-tech theater a reality. HESI comes in a close second with complete home automation that goes far beyond theaters, and the team at Onyx Theaters can create the custom design of your dreams.

Interior Designer

Once again, the King of Country French, internationally known interior design legend Charles Faudree is at the top or our list for The Best of the Best interior designer in Tulsa. Sharing the second space on the list are two well-known and immensely talented design firms, Doug Campbell of Campbell Design Associates and SR Hughes. Rounding out our survey are Chris Murphy with Christopher Murphy Designs and Dindy Foster of Dindy Foster Interiors.
Carson See of the family-run Sees Design firm makes his debut on our Oklahoma City list for his sophisticated designs with a thoroughly modern sensibility. Jennifer Welch of Jennifer Welch Interior Design, who has worked with notable OKC residents including Wayne Coyne and Michelle Martin-Coyne also debuts on the list, and up-and-coming design guru David Stinson of Stinson Design Group completes the survey.

Kitchen Designer

It’s the heart of the home, the place where everyone congregates during a party. When looking for someone to design this most important space, Tulsa readers recommend Kitchen Ideas, nationally known for custom designs, and Pohlenz Cucine Moderne, an exclusive representative of the sleek Valcucine line. Next up are Kitchen Concept and Carriage House Design. Showcase Kitchens and Baths wraps up our Tulsa list.

This year, Urban Kitchens rises to the top spot on our Oklahoma City list with innovative designs meant to seamlessly blend with surrounding architecture and reveal the clients’ personality. Classic Kitchens, designing distinctive kitchens since 1984, takes the silver and Edmond Kitchen & Bath makes their debut on our list.

Landscape Designer

Whether looking to add a little curb appeal or create a new hobby, many homeowners make substantial investments in landscaping. Hardscape Materials tops our Tulsa list again this year; they’ve been helping homeowners for more than 15 years and specialize in stone and water features. Tied for second are Derek McCall’s DRM Design Group and the team at Big Star Outdoors in Sand Springs. Kingdom Landscape and Oklahoma Landscape share the third spot.

In OKC, our readers give the top nod to Michael Pullen of Michael Pullen Design. Pullen pulls double duty with spectacular outdoor spaces and interior design, and you may know him from HGTV. Next up is EverGreen Landscaping in Edmond, known for providing expert landscaping and lawn care across the metro. Arbor Masters is also a trusted source to care for trees and much more.

Lawn and Garden Store

If you’re looking for plants, supplies and expert advice to create a personal outdoor oasis, our readers know where to go. In Tulsa, they recommend two well-known, full-service businesses, Southwood Landscape & Nursery and Sanders Nursery & Distribution Center. Smith Farm & Garden, specializing in lawn and garden machinery, earns the next spot on our list. Ted & Debbie’s Flower & Garden and Under The Sun, two businesses known for beautiful plants and great service, share the third spot.

In Oklahoma City, readers head to one of TLC Florist & Greenhouses’ two locations. This family owned company has been providing homegrown plants and friendly service since 1980. Precure is another OKC favorite with two locations. They’ve been beautifying the metro since 1959. O’Connor’s Lawn & Garden, specializing in mowers and other machinery, finishes our survey.

Lawn Maintenance

We’d all like our lawns to look like the greens at Southern Hills, but that requires so much time and work. If you’re looking for a little help, our readers have their own secret weapons for beautiful lawns. In Tulsa, a favorite for creating a thick, green, weed free lawn is LawnAmerica, serving all of the metro area. The nationally known experts at TruGreen are another safe bet. Third place Tulsa Sod & Mulch can install the lawn of your dreams and more.

Our OKC readers say Turf Appeal is the top place to call when looking for someone to keep your lawn looking lush. The full-service team at Absolute Lawn Management & Landscaping is also a big winner with OKC readers, and Scotts Lawn Services is a nationally trusted brand.

Lighting Store

Lighting is not only essential for your home, it can also create a true sense of beauty and drama. In Tulsa, Garbe’s is at the top of our list once again. It’s no wonder, they’ve been shedding light on homes for more than 40 years. Also making a return to our list is Andrews Lighting & Hardware Gallery, followed by LifeStyles Lighting, Furniture & Hardware.

Forty-year-old LifeStyles Lighting, Furniture & Hardware’s Edmond showroom is the top place to go in OKC when our readers are looking for new light fixtures. Andrews Lighting & Hardware Gallery is also a top three vote getter in OKC, and Voss Lighting makes its debut on our list.

Paint Store

There is probably no more impactful yet simple way to transform a space than with a fresh coat of paint. In Tulsa, our readers say two stores stand out for quality products, selection and expert advice. Spectrum Paint and Sherwin-Williams share the top spot. Anchor Paints and Kelly-Moore Paints tie for the next spot on the list, and Elder Paint & Wallpaper earns the final spot in our top three.

The nationally trusted brand Sherwin-Williams wins in our Oklahoma City race – they’ve sought to “Cover the Earth” since 1866. Spectrum Paint offers brands our readers know they can trust and third place H-I-S Paint has been crafting its own paint since 1972.

Pool Designer

When summers heat up in Oklahoma, we all want to head to the pool. If you’re looking to build your own, our Tulsa readers recommend the nationally certified designers at Baker Pools, responsible for the pools of some of Tulsa’s finest homes. Sharing second place is perennial favorite Vivion Pools and Pool Creations. Fiesta Pools & Spa is also a widely respected name in the Tulsa market.

Oklahoma City readers looking to create a slice of heaven in the backyard vote for Blue Haven Pools & Spas. Its staff of experts has been making dreams come true since 1954. Prestige Pools & Spas creates quality gunite pools and beautiful spaces to surround them. Aquascape, which creates pools and other watery habitats, rounds out the survey.

Real Estate Company

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest and most important transactions most of us make, and it’s imperative you have the right team on your side to guide you through the process. Tulsa readers have long looked to McGraw Realtors, one of the region’s oldest real estate firms, and Keller Williams Realty, a national network of realtors and agencies. Independent boutique firm Walter & Associates and Chinowth & Cohen Realtors, with a community of realtors throughout Green Country, share the second spot. Nationwide realtor Coldwell Banker completes our list.

National realtor Keller Williams Realty takes first place with our Oklahoma City readership – offering listings and committed agents across the metro. Century 21, another nationwide real estate network, is also a popular choice with our readers. Local independent company Churchill-Brown earns the final spot in our top three.

Remodeler

Once more, it’s Bill Powers whom our readers place at the top of the list for the best company to call on to convert an old home to modern standards. Red Dog Construction, known for remodels and a range of construction services, also returns to our list. Ashton Homes, Cowen Construction and David Trebilcock are also among the top winners in our poll.

In OKC, Greg Smith Homes received the most votes in the remodeler category. Tramba Construction is close behind to claim the second spot, and Remodeling Concepts is another trusted source for home remodeling in Oklahoma City.

Roofer

Though often overlooked, the roof is one of your home’s most important structural components, so you shouldn’t trust it to just anyone. Our Tulsa readers have selected three firms known for quality workmanship value. A-Best Roofing, a trusted name for more than 20 years, climbs to the top of our poll. Elliott Roofing, a name known throughout the state, is next, followed by All American Roofing, which has been roofing Tulsa homes for more than 30 years.

Elliott Roofing is once again the cream of the crop among our OKC readers, followed by re-roofing specialists Basey’s Roofing. Salazar Roofing & Construction, with more than 30 years under its belt, take the final spot in the top three.

Security

Once a luxury, home security systems are quickly becoming a necessity. TNT Security Services, promising “twice the service, half the cost” is the top pick in Tulsa. Nationally recognized ADT Security Services takes the next spot with state-of-the art technology, and long-time local favorites Guardian Security Systems and Advance Alarms finish our Tulsa survey.

The top-ranked national experts with ADT Security Services are the top choice among OKC voters. TNT Security Services also ranks highly with our readers on the south end of the turnpike, earning them the second place in our poll. Last but not least, All American Security Systems finishes the list.

Title/Escrow Company

It’s an integral part of any real estate transaction, and you’ll need an ally on your side to seal the deal in a timely and efficient manner. Guaranty Abstract Company takes the number one spot in Tulsa in this new category in our survey, and it’s little wonder, they’ve been at it for 84 years. With offices in Tulsa, Owasso and Broken Arrow, FirsTitle and Abstract Services fills the next spot on our list, and Tulsa Abstract & Title Company finishes our poll with three offices in the metro area.

In Oklahoma City, our readers turn to Stewart Title to manage their real estate transactions. They’ve been in business since 1893. With more than 10,000 closings per year, Capitol Abstract is also a reliable choice for our readers. First American rounds out our survey in this category’s debut.

Woodworking

Woodwork is the icing on the cake, adding unmatched beauty and detail to a home. In Tulsa, Mill Creek Lumber & Supply, which has been supplying the building industry since 1934 and even has its own architectural millwork operation, is once again the top choice of our readers. Woodcraft, providing tools and supplies to pros and hobbyists alike, also returns to our list. C&W Custom Woodworks and Sooner Custom Wood Molding share the next spot in our top three.

In OKC, our readers recommend you choose Woodwright Products, making their debut at the top our poll. Woodcraft is also a popular choice for OKC readers looking to “make wood work,” and The Carpenter Shop makes its debut in our survey to complete the list.