Home mag 6 14

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Thoughful design inspires creativity Creating a Plan for your Bath Remodel How to conquer the kid toy clutter

1

June 2014 • The Free Press

The Free Press MEDIA

Jonathan Louis CUSTOM F FURNITURE

Interior Designer Addie Stockman can turn your dream home into a reality. Visit her to incorporate the ne west styles and trends into your home!

AUSTIN NEXT TO TARGET 507.437.1457

as low as

MANKATO NEXT TO HOBBY LOBBY 507.345.7763

NEW ULM N. BROADWAY ST. 507.354.1250

M-F 10 AM - 8 PM, SAT 10 AM - 6 PM, SUN 12 - 5 PM

Visit us online at www.roomsandrest.com.

1

$

Per Day Sale!

The most highly recommended bed in America.

Kids finally move out?

Time for a makeover.

The carpets you've always wanted are softer than ever. Come in and see our latest collection of luxurious floors from Shaw.

Carpet | Area Rugs | Tile & Stone | Hardwood | Laminate | Resilient | shawfloors.com

FLOORING EXPERTS SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE!

RICKWAY CARPET 507.625.3089

1107 Cross St. | North Mankato Mon-Thurs 9am–8pm | Fri 9am–6pm | Sat 9am–4pm | Closed Sun.

www.rickwaycarpet.net

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

ATIVE DECORONRY MAS

Stamped Concrete • Brick Stone • Block • Concrete

507-665-6130 www.widmermasonry.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Poured Walls Block Wall Basement Basement Floors Garage Floors & Aprons Pole Barn Floors & Aprons Glass Block Showers Glass Block Windows Egress Window Installation Custom Wood Fireplaces Custom Gas Fireplaces Custom Brick Mailboxes Stone or Brick Pillars Exposed Aggregate Sidewalks Patios Stone & Brick BBQs Maintenance Free Siding with Brick or Stone Stamped Concrete - Patio Colored Concrete RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL & AGRICULTURAL

The Free Press • June 2014

1

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Table of Contents

4 8

4

Creating a Plan for you Bath Remodel

6

Stay cool wouthout air conditioning

7

Three family-fun activities for the Fourth of July

8

How to conquer the kid toy clutter

9

Make Independence Day a family day

10

Recognize Safety hazards during yard work

11

How to spruce up outdoor space before hosting guests

20

The summer renovation staycation

11 2

20

June 2014 • The Free Press

Did you know?

Few things beat a cold beverage on a hot day. When time is of the essence, there are ways to cool down bottled or canned beverages quickly. Individual bottles can be wrapped in a wet paper towel and stashed in the freezer for a few minutes. However, if you will be having a party and want to get beverages ready for the crowd, create a salty ice bath. Salt does not actually make water colder, but it will suppress the freezing point of water. That means water can become much colder -- and retain that temperature -- without freezing over to ice. If no salt were added, the coldest the water would reach would be 32 F. By adding salt, water can get as low as -6 F. This means items submerged in a salty ice bath will get colder much more quickly. Fill a cooler half-way with ice. Add the beverages until they are covered by ice. Then add water until the ice is submerged. Mix in table salt or rock salt to suppress the freezing point of the water. After 10 minutes or more, the beverages should be icy cold.

ANTJE MEISNER CONCEPTS Interior Design

• • • • •

Color Consulting Design Consultations Finish Selections Space Planning Window Treatments 107 E. Cherry St. Mankato, MN 56001 507.380.8570 antjemeisner.com

Quality Products and Exceptional Service from your local, hometown lumber yard and rental company.

Lloyd Lumber Company Marvin Windows and Doors brings its Built around you® philosophy to life with every customer and every product it creates. A premier manufacturer of made-to-order windows and doors, Marvin offers unparalleled value with craftsman-quality construction, energy-efficient technology and the industry’s most extensive selection of shapes, styles and options.

Offering Licensed & Insured MOVING Service

G.R.A.C.E. Thrift Store

Best thrift store in Southern Minnesota Find amazing re-purposed and re-invented items at the

Plant the Park Concert on September 20th in Robinson Park 101 S. Main Street • 507-726-6881 Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10-5 • Sat. 9-1

(507) 625-4500 1860 Commerce Drive North Mankato

HOURS: Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Free Press • June 2014

3

Creating a Plan for your

Bath Remodel

Submitted by: Antje Meisner Concepts Photos by: Jen Adams

H

ow would you describe your bathroom? Is it an organized, functional, and beautiful space to start your day?

Is it a place where you can escape, relax and let go of the day’s stress?

Perhaps it’s the opposite. You’re rummaging through crammed drawers to find things. At the end of the day you can’t wait to turn off the light and make your exit.

If the latter is true it may be time for a remodel. Bathrooms are second only to the kitchen on people’s wish lists of rooms to remodel. An updated bathroom can enhance your daily routine and add value to your home.

Whether your bathroom needs a few updates or a complete overhaul be sure to think through the project from beginning to end. This can be overwhelming. Just take one step at a time. Evaluate and plan how you want the bathroom to function.

What special design features do you want or need? What type of materials and finishes would you like? What is your budget?

A bathroom is one of the most expensive rooms to renovate.

Planning is vital. Don’t rush the process! Take time to evaluate and create a framework that will guide your decisions. Bathrooms are complex. They have many functions and materials crammed into a small footprint. Be sure to really think through how you want this space to work for your lifestyle.

What is the main reason you want to renovate? Do you need extra space or a more functional floor plan?

Do you only want an updated look and upgraded fixtures? Do you need more storage? Who will be using this bathroom? Would you like to create more private areas? The answers to these questions will help shape your overall plan and determine design features.

Double sinks, custom showers, soaker tubs, and custom vanities

4

are elements you may want to incorporate into your design. When planning for a double sink, be sure to place them at least 36” apart, measured drain to drain. Also allow for ample lighting, electrical outlets, and storage at each sink.

Custom tiled showers can be a real showpiece in a bath. A continued trend for 2014 is curbless showers.

This creates a seamless look and allows the flooring to run right into the shower. It also makes the bathroom feel bigger and look cleaner. Linear floor drains are very functional and have big design impact. Install a handheld shower in addition to a fixed shower head.

They are easy for everyone to use and also simplify the task of cleaning.

If you have the space soaker tubs can be a luxurious addition. Deeper than a regular tub, soaker tubs are perfect for sinking into a hot, peaceful bath. Some tubs have the added feature of a heating element in the tub walls to keep the water warm. Want even more luxury? Try a soaker tub with chromotherapy or aromatherapy. Check that your water heater is big enough when adding a soaker tub to your bath plan.

Custom vanities aren’t just for high-end remodels. A local cabinetmaker can create a cost-effective, custom piece for your bath. One benefit of a custom vanity is that you can determine the height that is best for you. This can be anywhere from 36 to 42 inches, depending on how tall you are. Typically, older vanities are at a height of 30 inches. A taller vanity is simply more comfortable.

Also, consider a floating vanity.

These can work very well in a small bathroom, giving the illusion of more space. A floating vanity can be designed to fit any style, not just a modern one. Custom storage solutions can also be incorporated in the design of your vanity.

Be sure to include good lighting.

June 2014 • The Free Press

ANTJE MEISNER C O N C E P T S INTERIOR DESIGN

Have lighting come from two 107 E. Cherry St. | Mankato, different sources, wall sconcesMN at 56001 ph: 507.380.8570 | antjemeisner.com the mirrors plus recessed light in the ceiling. Flank the mirror with sconces placed at eye-level, approximately 66 inches. Ideally, have these spaced 36-40 inches apart. If there is no room for side sconces install a long fixture on the wall above the mirror.

Have some of your lights put on dimmers. You can dim the lights when getting ready for bed or when soaking in the tub.

Finally, you’ll need to determine your budget. An average bathroom remodel costs approximately $10,000. This number can fluctuate up or down depending on your material choices. A simple porcelain tile will impact your budget less than an imported natural stone. Keeping major plumbing lines in place will save you money.

Budget for the unexpected. Reserve an additional 10 to 15 percent for unforeseen expenses that may pop up during the renovation. No one can see through walls. There may be hidden water damage or electrical and plumbing issues to address. Any changes made after construction begins can also add to the budget.

Even a small bathroom makeover is a major expense. Be careful when trying to cut costs. Splurge on something, a special plumbing feature or unique vanity. Paying a bit more for fixtures will pay off in the future.

You want to be able to enjoy that long soak in the tub for many years to come.

Stay cool without

H

air conditioning

ot, steamy weather can Reducing reliance on air derail the best intentions conditioning can lower energy bills of reducing energy and benefit the environment. Before consumption. As temperatures turning on your air conditioning unit soar, few can resist the temptation this summer, consider these cooling to crank the air conditioning unit tips. and relax in some frosty comfort.

However, relying too heavily on air • Keep the blinds and shades conditioning can compromise the drawn. Sunlight entering a home efforts of men and women hoping to can quickly create a hot-house reduce their carbon footprints. environment. To prevent such a It is estimated that up to 50 situation from materializing, draw percent of electricity used during the curtains or blinds, particularly the warm weather season is for air on windows that are south- or conditioning. The American Council west-facing. This will cut down on for an Energy-Efficient Economy the amount of heat that enters the says energy consumption for home home. air conditioning accounts for more than 8 percent of all the electricity • Use cool water. Run your hands, produced in the United States, costing head and feet under cold water. homeowners more than $15 billion This will cool down the blood in annually. This translates to roughly key pressure points of the body and 195 million tons of carbon dioxide, keep you feeling cool for an hour an average of almost two tons per or more. year, for homes with air conditioning.

Air conditioning costs and energy usage vary widely depending on the • Switch to LEDor CFL bulbs. type and age of a unit, the size of a Incandescent bulbs produce more home, how well air conditioners are heat than light, contributing to maintained and many other factors. warmer ambient air. Light-emitting Air conditioners work similarly diode or compact fluorescent lights to refrigerators. Evaporator and not only use less energy but also condenser coils either distribute cool run much cooler. air into the home or release hot air outdoors. When an air conditioner is • Run fans in a counter-clockwise running, a great deal of heat can be position. Ceiling fans come expelled outdoors. Air conditioners equipped with a switch that enables use pumps known as compressors you to change the blades’ spinning to transfer heat between these direction. Counter-clockwise will components. Refrigerant fluid is draw the cooler air up from the pumped through the tubing and floor and distribute it throughout fins surrounding the evaporator the room. and condenser coils. When the fluid reaches the indoor coil, it evaporates, taking heat with it and cooling • Dress sparingly. While in the the air that will be pumped inside. comfort of home, wear minimal The pump then moves the gaseous clothing to remain cooler. Sleep in refrigerant over to the outdoor coil less clothing and remove covers if where it condenses, transferring that you’re finding it difficult to get a heat to the air that will be expelled good night’s rest. from the building. Compressors, fans and additional components of air conditioning systems require a lot of energy and power.

6 June 2014 • The Free Press

• Change your home’s color scheme.

A light-colored roof and siding will help reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them. This can make a home considerably cooler.

• Plant shade trees. Trees can stop sunlight from baking a home or backyard. Trees also absorb and sequester carbon dioxide emissions, which makes them beneficial to the environment for a variety of reasons.

• Open windows and doors at night.

Open windows to allow cool nighttime air to enter. Open interior doors (including closets) to allow trapped, hot air to be released. This may help cool the home down a few degrees.

• Avoid steam and heat-producing appliances. Dishwashers, ovens and hot showers can add extra heat to an already warm home. Wait until the evening before running appliances. Stick to cool showers and cook outdoors if possible.

• Insulate your home. A home that has a well-insulated attic and walls will keep the heat out of the house during the hotter months of the year.

Air conditioning systems use a great deal of energy, but ecoconscious homeowners can explore other methods of keeping cool to help lessen their reliance on air conditioners this year. MCC.

Three familyfun activities for the

Fourth of July T

he Fourth of July is the ultimate summer holiday, with picnics, parades, and fireworks.

The surest way to get everyone in the mood for celebrating is to round up the kids and do some creating.

Make a patriotic planted pot garden. You’ll need a plastic plant pot for each person, acrylic paints, potting soil, and a selection of annual flowers from the garden center or from your home garden. Working on a plastic sheet to prevent messes, paint the pots in patriotic colors.

When dry, fill with potting soil and a selection of red, white, and blue annual flowers. Purple flowers may have to stand in for blue, which can be hard to find. If you want to use terra cotta pots, be sure to seal the pot inside and out with an acrylic sealant before planting.

Bake a Fourth of July cake dessert.

Hmm, cupcakes! Dig out your best recipe for white cake or pick up an easy-to-make cake mix. If time is limited and you want to focus on fun and creativity rather than taste, you can tint white ready-made frosting with red, white, and blue food coloring. For a healthier version, use cream-cheese frosting as a white base and add blueberries and strawberries in patriotic designs.

Dress up like Americans from another time. Depending on which moment in history captures the family’s whimsy, dig out granny’s trunk from the attic and a few old scarves. Have fun re-enacting happy scenes that express the American way of life the way your family sees it.

The key to this kind of fun is to be respectful of all the different ways of being American.

PUTTING THE RIGHT PEOPLE, IN THE RIGHT HOME, AT THE RIGHT TIME. Wells Federal Bank will help finance your dream home or refinance your existing home from start to finish.

Call Today to Lock-in Your Low Rate!

1601 Adams St., Mankato

1618 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter

507-345-4558

507-931-6100

wellsfederal.com

Audio, Video, Automation Systems Control your: • TVs • Music • Movies • Lighting • HVAC • Security • Locks • Garage Doors • Shades • More by smartphone or tablet Call us and let us show you how it works!

www.ecsmankato.com

Plumbing Problems Building Up? Plumbing • Drains & Sewers • Water Heaters Faucets • Toilets • Sump Pumps

401 Eleanor Street, Mankato, MN 56001 • McGowanWater.com

The Free Press • June 2014

7

How to conquer the

kid toy clutter

T

oo much household clutter is not only unsightly but also can contribute to a stressful environment. Children’s toys are often key contributors to homes overrun with clutter, but with a growing family and birthday and holiday gifts streaming in, it can be challenging for parents to tame toyrelated clutter.

Parents who have hosted play dates know that once the fun ends their youngsters’ rooms often appear overrun with toys. Kids have a funny knack of taking out every toy they own without putting their toys away.

But with a few tips, anyone can conquer the clutter created by toys.

• Take stock of what you have.

Taking inventory helps to determine which toys can ultimately be donated or discarded.

Look for duplicates, similar items, broken toys, and items that are seldom used.

• Start to organize. When you have everything laid out in clear view, start to divide and conquer.

8

Create groups in which to sort the toys. Dolls should be in one pile, building blocks in another and so on. Figure out a system that works for your family. You may find that active, sports-related items can be moved to the garage, while board games and books may be moved to a family room or a community closet in the house to free up more space in playrooms. Seasonal toys can be stored away in an attic or basement until they are needed.

• Create accessible storage. Toys should be stored where kids can easily access them. Clear bins are great for storage, and such bins come in a variety of sizes.

Construct cubbies in the playroom where these bins can be kept. Be sure they are nearly ground level and not too heavy so that children can easily get to their toys come play time.

• Construct or buy a toy chest. A toy chest can house larger toys and act as a receptacle for fast cleanup when kids need to tidy up before

June 2014 • The Free Press

company arrives. Such chests are good for storing larger cars and trucks or the hordes of stuffed animals kids accumulate.

• Shelving gets things off the floor.

Display collectibles that cannot be damaged on shelves. This makes sure they are still on display but not in jeopardy of being mishandled by curious youngsters.

• Donate toys kids no longer use. It can be a tough job, but children should work with you to thin out their toy collections. Designate a certain portion of items that need to go. Bring them to a consignment shop or donate them to kids in need.

Organizing youngsters’ toy collections can be a difficult job, but such organization is essential to keep a tidy home. MCC.

Make

Independence Day a

family day

T

hese days, with most stores and restaurants staying open even on holidays, chances are at least one member of the family is going to have to work on the Fourth of July. But that doesn’t have to stop you from making it a family event; it’s more important than ever to create fun times for the family, especially when it involves a festive national holiday. The trick is to plan ahead and get things ready for the time of day when everybody can be together for a few hours.

A couple of weeks ahead of time, ask teens and young adults who have part-time jobs to check with their supervisors about which shift they might be expected to work that day.

And if you or your spouse has to put in a few hours of work, see if you can coordinate your shift with those of everybody else in the family.

When all that is settled, you can officially request the presence of those you’d like to invite for an Independence Day get-together. If everybody has to be somewhere during the day, why not start the holiday with a red, white, and blue breakfast of berries and yogurt and an agreement to meet in the evening for dessert and fireworks.

Or, if the kids have to work the evening shift, plan a traditional Fourth of July picnic for lunchtime at the park or in the backyard. Invite the neighbors and some friends to join you with their own picnic baskets, and you’ve got an instant easy party.

As you negotiate tricky schedules and willful teens, remind yourselves that the American way of life has always had family at its heart.

The Free Press • June 2014

9

Recognize

safety hazards

A

ttention, all green thumbs -- and the bodies attached to them: It’s nearly time to get down and dirty in the garden.

Whether you’re transforming your backyard into an award winner or just trimming the lawn, the CSA Group, a leading certification and testing organization, asks that you remember the following safety tips:

Yard Work • Always ensure that products such as electric lawnmowers, barbecues, power tools, ladders, decorative lights, extension cords and safety apparel carry the mark of a recognized certification organization, such as CSA Group.

• Read the manufacturer’s operating instructions and use products only as intended.

during yard work

• Wear protective eye and footwear (on eyes and feet, respectively).

• What’s that you say? Wear hearing protection when operating loud machinery, vehicles or tools.

Power Lawnmowers • Know your mower and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Look for these safety features: a rear guard to protect your hands and feet from rotating blades; a “deadman” control that stops the mower when you release the handle; and an “up-stop” feature to prevent the handle from kicking up when the mower hits an obstacle.

• Clear the lawn of sticks, stones, wire, toys and other objects (including that screwdriver you lost in the grass last summer), as they could get caught in the machine or flung by the blades.

• Wear clothing that provides some protection, including long pants, a shirt with sleeves and firmly-tied shoes with non-slip soles and hard toes.

• Never cut the grass when it’s damp or wet, or when there is rain or lightning. Wet conditions greatly increase the risk that you will slip, suffer electric shock or clog the mower.

• Always mow in daylight, never at twilight or in the dark. Keep your eyes on the lawn and look ahead (at least three feet) for debris.

• Shut off, unplug and engage your mower’s safety devices before removing clogged grass clippings.

• Shut off the mower immediately if you hit an object. Check for damage and do not restart it unless you’re sure it’s safe to do so.

• As suggested by its name, always push rather than pull a push mower.

• All extension cords should be untangled, in good repair, have a three-prong plug rated for outdoor use and be of the recommended gauge for the load.

For more information on CSA Group visit www.csagroup.org.

MCC.

How to spruce up

outdoor space before hosting guests B

eautiful nights make for great opportunities to invite some friends over for a starry soiree under the nighttime sky. Unlike house parties at which guests will be spending most of their time indoors and in various rooms throughout the house, outdoor parties are often limited to smaller areas, such as patios. That can make things much less taxing on hosts, who won’t have much prep work to do to get an outdoor hosting area ready for guests.

But even an impromptu party requires planning and a little elbow grease before guests arrive. The following are a few areas to address before guests arrive for your next outdoor get-together.

sun so they dry more quickly. Once the cushions have been cleaned, wipe down the furniture with a wet towel to clear them of any dirt or debris.

• Clean and inspect the grill. The grill is a go-to accessory when hosting an outdoor party, so give the grill a thorough cleaning before the first guests arrive. Nothing brings a party to a halt like hunger, and guests may begin to grow antsy if they are not served food in a reasonable amount of time. If you are using a propane grill, check to make sure the tanks are full as

you clean the grill. Running out of propane is a summer soiree faux pas, so you might want to keep an extra tank handy just to be safe.

• Clear the entryway to your home.

Your guests will likely be using the same entryway over and over again during the party, so focus on cleaning this entryway so guests don’t trip or have to jump over toys on their way to an indoor restroom. Once the entryway has been cleared of potential tripping hazards, make sure the indoor path to the restroom is clear as well.

MCC.

• Clear the walkways and patio of debris. The walkways and patio may not need too much attention, but give them a once-over with a broom to clear any debris. When clearing the patio of debris, move all furniture, making sure to sweep up any debris, including food, that might have fallen beneath tables and chairs since your most recent party. If the patio is especially dirty, consider power washing it to remove stubborn stains that can rob the area of its aesthetic appeal.

• Clean the furniture. Whether it’s been months since your last party on the patio or just a few days, the furniture must be cleaned. Unless items have been stored in a garage or shed, patio furnishings are exposed to the elements, and that means dirt, soil, soot or pollen may have accumulated on the furniture.

Wipe down all cushions, using a mild detergent when necessary.

Cushions may need some time to dry, so make this one of your first tasks, and leave cushions out in the

The Free Press • June 2014

11

Thoughtful design inspires creativity, relaxation

and even

laughter

By Marianne Carlson | Photos by Jen Adams

F

reshly planted purple and pink flowers, line the sidewalk like open arms welcoming everyone as if they are friends and family.

A small stone cherub wearing a necklace sits quietly in the front yard – adding a playful human element to the natural surroundings. Four metal watering cans rest on the weathered white steps. The address, 517, is written in chalk on the front door.

The door opens. A mat for visitors’ shoes is on the floor of the entryway. Antique hooks, placed at eye level, offer a refuge for coats and hats. Above the hooks, one word is written: Bienvenu! which means “Welcome” in French.

The smell of maple syrup fills the air and somehow, a stranger’s house feels like home.

“That’s the point,” Jackie Dickie said with a chuckle.

“I want people to feel welcome and calm. I want you to feel like you can take off your shoes and do whatever you want.”

Dickie, worked for Better Homes & Gardens as a freelance stylist for over a decade, but now, she is taking a little break and working on her own projects.

For Dickie, it is all about sharing – sharing her home, her ideas and inspiring others to do the same.

Dickie and her husband Jeff, along with several friends and family members, completely gutted and remodeled their three bedroom, 1 1/2 bath home in Waseca, transforming it into a rustic modern French farmhouse.

The house was built in 1890 and was in desperate need of updating and repairs.

“I had several people ask me what I was thinking, but I also have a couple good friends who shared my vision and could see the potential,” she said.

Creating your own space with your own special style Whether it is one room or an entire home remodel, planning and patience are the two most vital ingredients when it comes to redesigning your home, according to Dickie.

“First of all, you’ve got to make a plan,” Dickie said.

“Before you start, you have to ask yourself, ‘What is this room going to be used for?’ Is it going to be a place where you want to relax or entertain? What is its function? Keep a notebook with you, in your car or in your purse and when you think of something, write it down.”

When it comes to choosing your colors, planning is once again crucial, Dickie said.

“Ask yourself if this is a color that you are going to live with long term or is this a color you want to use as a little flash of fun?” Dickie asked. “Make a plan of action and stick to that plan.”

Dickie is a big fan of white and grey. The walls of her home are pure white and most of her furniture is grey or

white. She uses small blasts of color to strategically accent objects in a room or as a way to tie several rooms together.

Right now, Dickie’s dining room and kitchen are highlighted with wisps of bright yellow. In the kitchen, a bowl of lemons sits next to fresh garlic cloves on a grey and white stone cutting board. Old-fashioned lemonade bottles adorn the dining room table, as delicate yellow flowers peek out of old school milk-carton style containers labeled “Lemon Drink.”

“The yellow will only be here until July and then I will bring out the citrus orange,” Dickie said with a smile and a quick raise of her eyebrows.

Melding of styles People often ask Dickie if it is acceptable to have more than one style in your home.

The answer is, “yes, but you have to find a way to marry the styles,” Dickie explained. “I love to juxtapose modern contemporary with the old. You can marry them both.

That goes for other styles as well. You just have to create a connection from room to room.”

For example, many of the objects and furniture in Dickie’s home are not from the same time period. She blends simple, smooth modern items and furnishings with rough, textured antique articles, and uses them to carry the French countryside theme throughout her entire home.

Weathered wooden ladders sit naturally behind sleek white couches.

Framed black and white photography, French lifestyle photos, hang on the walls in the foyer and living room while others sit on a shelf in the dining room. The images are small with large white mats, forcing the viewer to get up close and really examine them.

“Some of these are old French postcards and others are pictures I have found or taken myself,” Dickie said. “So often people look at things, but don’t really see them.”

Hand written French letters dating as far back as the

early 1700s are tied together with a thin grey ribbon and are placed in a small square white bowl in the living room.

“I want people to touch them, open them up and look at them,” Dickie said. “Even if you don’t read French you can appreciate their beauty. The penmanship is absolutely amazing. They really are works of art.”

Reestablishing Before you run out and buy, look closely at what you are already have, Dickie urged.

There are very few people in this world with an unlimited budget when it comes to redesigning and remodeling their homes, Dickie said. Thoughtful decisions can save people a lot of money.

“Start simple,” Dickie said. “Just moving objects and furniture around can give a room a whole new look.

Then ask yourself, do you have items or furniture that will work with your new plan? Can they be repainted or reupholstered?”

Dickie points to a white concrete garden urn with vibrant greenery spilling out the top, currently the centerpiece on a circular table in her foyer.

“I have used that urn everywhere,” Dickie said with a laugh. “It has been outside and in every room of my house.

I even filled it with soda bottles once during a party.”

Fabric yardage is a very economical way to create a new look, according to Dickie. Draping a colored or patterned fabric across the back of a chair or sofa will create a new focal point and help emphasize colors and textures that may have gone unnoticed.

If you don’t sew, don’t worry about it, Dickie said. If you

don’t want the fabric to fray you can simply use one of several products on the market that only require an iron to make a crisp hem.

Repurposing & Reinventing According to Tumbler.com, repurposing is “when whimsical creativity meets thrifty pragmatism.”

Repurposing something means that the original object is only slightly modified, such as a being repainted. This object is then used for a completely different purpose than it was originally intended. For example, using vintage tea cups to create a succulent garden or turning an old colander into a stylish hanging planter.

“Recycle your toys,” Dickie said with a smile. “I appreciate how something was used before and I love finding a new use for something that has had another life.”

Two brown wooden shutters with peeling white paint, likely decorated the exterior windows of a home, once upon a time. Now they serve as a backdrop -- one on each side of the back wall in Dickie’s dining room, each layered with a smooth white serving platter and tea cup.

A shiny paint can hangs from a hook in the living room and is now a vase for a display of orange tulips.

Dickie holds up a metal basket with a handle. It used to be a fryer basket in a restaurant but in her home, it has held everything from office supplies to soap.

“I love taking something utilitarian and turning it into something lovely,” Dickie declared.

The Free Press • June 2014

15

Time to go treasure hunting The hunt is half of the fun, Dickie said. So enjoy it.

“Take a day trip with friends and go on an adventure,” Dickie suggested. “There are so many great places nearby.

You’ve already done your research, so bring your notes and follow your plan. Look for things that speak to you.”

When shopping for herself, Dickie said she looks for things that can be used again and again – one object with 100 uses. And she is always on the lookout for items that will spark a conversation.

Dickie collects porcelain letter blocks, numbers stamped on metal or paper, old clock faces and skeleton keys.

An oval white glass bowl holds a pile of old clock faces and one black skeleton key sits on top.

Is she trying to unlock the mystery of time? Does she want people to use their time wisely? Is this display a reminder to be present -- both mentally and physically?

Does she want her visitors to slow down, take a deep breath and simply look around?

16

June 2014 • The Free Press

“That is for them to decide,” Dickie said with a smile.

“I really just want people to have fun when they come here. Laughter is the key component of life and sometimes people get caught up in their everyday lives and forget to take time out to simply enjoy. Everyone takes away something different -- something special to them. It is so much fun to connect with people without having to say a single word.”

When hunting for treasure Dickie reminds people not to forget about looking in the great outdoors.

“Nature is free,” she said with a laugh. “You can take a walk and bond with family members while you search for the perfect leaves, sticks or rocks.”

One of Dickie’s greatest joys is watching people laugh and have fun with her playful creations.

“When they see my home, I want people to think, ‘I can do that,’ ” Dickie said with a smile. “I get so inspired when people take one of my ideas and add their own personal twist to it. You are making your own story. That story will evolve and it will evolve you. It is a journey.”

The Free Press • June 2014

17

Places to Hunt for

Treasure

Home Furnishings: Anthropologie

Edina – www.anthropologie.com

Art & Architecture

Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts

Mankato & Minneapolis - www.joann.com

Jonathan Adler

Restoration Hardware

Edina - www.restorationhardware.com

Room & Board

Minneapolis – www.artandarc.com

Minneapolis - www.jonathanadler.com

Bibelot

Michael’s Arts & Crafts Mankato & Minneapolis www.michaels.com

Santa Monica - www.shabbychic.com

Brown & Greene

Mothology

www.target.com

Minneapolis & St. Paul – www.bibelotshops.com Minneapolis - www.bgfloral.net

www.mothology.com

CB2

Nell Hill

Uptown Minneapolis – www.cb2.com

Crate & Barrel

Edina – www.crateandbarrel.com

Foxglove Market Studio

St. Paul – www.foxglovemarket.com

Hobby Lobby

Mankato & Rochester www.hobbylobby.com

Kansas City - www.nellhills.com

Patina

Bell’occhio Impress

Minneapolis www.thefoundryhomegoods.com

Victory Home Interiors

Seattle - www.watsonkennedy.com

Pottery Barn

Edina - www.westelm.com

Watson Kennedy

California - www.pompominteriors.com

West Elm

Edina - www.potterybarn.com

Vintage: Alameda Flea Market

Pearl Buttons Primitives

Alameda, California www.alamedapointantiquesfaire.com

Waseca - www.pearlbuttonprimitives.com

Big Daddy’s Antique

California

Paper Depot

Bountiful

Minneapolis - www.paperdepotinc.com

Venice, California - www.bountifulhome.com

Paper Source

Hunt & Gather

Minneapolis & Edina – www.paper-source.com

Minneapolis – www.huntandgatherantiques.com

Rose Mille

Long Beach Flea Market

Tinsel Trading Company

The Foundry Home Goods

Pom Pom Interiors

San Francisco – www.bdantiques.com

New York - www.tinseltrading.com

Target

Minneapolis - www.shopvictory.com

Seattle www.impresscardsandcrafts.com

Stillwater - rosemille.com

Shabby Chic Couture

Minneapolis & St. Paul www.patinastores.com

Creative: San Francisco - www.bellocchio.com

Edina - www.roomandboard.com

California www.longbeachantiquemarket.com

Ms. Macs Antiques

Janesville - www.facebook.com/ msmacsantiques.com

Santa Monica Flea Market Simply Iowa Antiques –

Fairfax, Iowa - www.facebook.com/pages/ Simply-Iowa.com

The Porch and Atelier

Buffalo, MN - www.facebook.com/ theporchandatelier.com

Vintageweave Interiors

Los Angeles - www.vintageweave.com

A Little Q & A with Jackie Dickie How often do you change your décor?

“Every other month, or just on a whim. For sure, if I am having a dinner party.”

What kind of music do you listen to?

“I like soft celtic music and cello music. I like Diana Kraul and anything by Enya.”

What is your favorite go-to material for interior design?

Paper supplies What inspires you?

“The work of Trisha Foley. It is simple, no nonsense utilitarian made pretty. I also really like Kelly Harmon’s work. She has more of a soft style.”

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in interior design?

“It doesn’t matter what career you have. Know your passion and love what you do!”

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to designing?

“I love finding the exquisite in the imperfect.”

What’s next?

“I am passionate about finding stuff for other people. I will either be having occasional sales here at the house or I will be opening a shop, I’m not sure yet. I’m thinking of calling it ‘Farm House in the City 1890.’ My plan is to be ready for the first sale in September.”

The Free Press • June 2014

19

r e m m u S The

Four

Renovation renovation projects to do outside For some people, summer is synonymous with vacations, traveling, and getting away from it all. For others, it is the perfect time of year to do some renovations. Here are four projects to do outside your home during the summer months.

1

Redo the roof

Whether you entrust this project to a roofing company or you do it yourself, replacing a roof is a more enjoyable task on a sunny, dry day. However, be sure to avoid roof work during a heat wave, as you could easily end up with heat stroke. If necessary, take this opportunity to change the rain gutters.

2

Change the siding

Whether you use vinyl panels, brick, stone, stucco, natural wood, engineered, or composite wood, replacing or restoring your home’s siding is a major project.

Installing a new veneer usually requires more than a day of work, making it a great project for a summer vacation.

20

June 2014 • The Free Press

3

Landscape the yard

Make the most of summer by landscaping your backyard. Let yourself get swept away by the current outdoor living trend. Create an enjoyable living area, right out back, with a solarium, pool, spa, fence, outdoor kitchen and living area, play modules for the children, flowers and shrubs, vegetable garden, and water garden.

4

Repaint wood structures

Rejuvenate your property by painting or staining wood structures, such as the garage, door and window frames, deck, railings, steps, above ground pool decks, and carport. To let the paint or stain dry properly, do these jobs on a day when it’s not too hot, too humid, nor too sunny.

Four

Staycation renovation projects to do INSIDE You’ve decided to forgo the road vacation in order to stay home and get some big jobs done around the house? Here are the top four indoor renovations to do, while the weather is warm. A handy tip: keep plenty of cool drinks on hand and set up a comfy outdoor living area, complete with lounging furniture, lighting, and an awning for rainy days.

1

Renovate the kitchen

Renovating the kitchen can be a long, complex process, even more so because it is a key room in the home. Renovating your kitchen during the summer has its advantages: you can prepare meals outdoors on the barbecue and use the backyard as a dining area.

2

Redo the floors

Even though sanding and varnishing techniques have greatly improved over the years, these jobs can still disrupt the entire household. With warm summer weather, it is possible to air out the room quickly after the work is done. Just be sure to leave the window screens in place to keep dust and other particles from coming indoors.

3

Repaint

Summer is a good time to undertake painting jobs (except during humid periods). Not only can you air out the rooms as you work, but you can begin the job very early in the morning and finish later because of the long daylight hours. In other words, you’ll be more productive— unless you succumb to the temptation of taking a dip in your pool on such a beautiful day!

4

Change doors and windows

Whether your goal is to improve the style or the energy efficiency of your home, changing the doors and windows is definitely a summer project. Warm weather is a distinct advantage, as installation can require multiple comings and goings from the outdoors.

The Free Press • June 2014

21